Workday Playdate

In this episode of Workday Playdate, Erin unpacks what employee engagement really looks like in today’s world with Dr. Angela Jackson, founder of Future Forward Strategies. Forget the ping pong tables and perk-loaded culture decks. This is about centering worker voice, listening with intention, and designing workplaces that actually work, for everyone. Whether you’re leading a team, managing up, or trying to make your 9–5 feel more like a “want to,” this conversation delivers bold, strategic insights for building motivated, mission-aligned teams in the modern workplace. Inside This Episode: Why real engagement starts with ownership, not office snacks The overlooked ROI of actually asking your people what they care about How data and feedback loops can drive meaningful culture change Post-pandemic playbooks: what’s working now (and what’s not) How to bring contractors and non-traditional workers into the mission Who This Episode Is For: People leaders. Culture builders. Curious employees. Anyone who’s ready to leave behind surface-level engagement and create work that feels worth showing up for. Listen in and then share it with your team. Let’s turn every workday into a playdate. Feeling stretched thin but still trying to “stay positive”? Grab our free Positivity Without Pretending Toolkit. It’s a quick, honest reset for people leaders who want to show up without faking it. In five minutes or less, you’ll reframe, refuel, and lead with heart (even when you're running on fumes). Download it now and take the pressure off.   No, You Hang Up First (Let’s Keep Connecting) Did today’s episode resonate with you? Leave us a review sharing your favorite insight and we’ll send you a free signed copy of I See You! A Leader’s Guide to Energizing Your Team through Radical Empathy. Have another question that we can answer? Leave us a Speakpipe audio clip and we’ll answer it in an upcoming episode. Don’t want to miss another episode? If you’re a Spotify listener, find our show here and click “Follow.” If you’re an Apple Podcast listener, click here and make sure to hit “+Follow.” Want access to a bunch of free resources for your work life? This is your personal jackpot that gives you access to the frameworks that help us thrive both personally and professionally. Whether you’re trying to improve your daily routine, flesh out an idea that you’ve had for quite some time, or want to add more play into your day - these resources have got your back. Want 2 emails a week from us? One with a quick tip you can implement right away to enhance your personal and/or professional lives & one of our famous F.A.I.L. Fourward Friday newsletters? Subscribe here. Connect with Dr. Angela Jackson Dr. Angela’s company website Dr. Angela’s personal website Dr. Anglela’s LinkedIn Connect with Erin Diehl x improve it! Erin’s website Erin’s Instagram Erin’s TikTok Erin’s LinkedIn improve it!’s website improve it!’s Instagram See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In today’s snack-sized dose of Workday Playdate, Erin’s serving up a spicy truth: no amount of kombucha or karaoke can fix what’s really broken when it comes to employee engagement. The Problem: Only 33% of U.S. employees are engaged at work. And, spoiler alert: swag won’t save us. Connection is the missing link, not cold brew on tap. The Improv Hack to Try: The Scene Partner Swap Flip the script. Instead of waiting for someone else to boost morale, ask: If I were my boss or teammate… how would I help ME feel more engaged? Then act from that mindset for one week. Engagement isn’t entertainment, it’s a feedback loop. Start it. Why it works: Improv teaches us to make our scene partner look good. This mindset shift invites ownership, empathy, and action from any seat in the org chart. Wednesday Tease: Episode 299 — “Want to Nail Employee Engagement? Here’s What Actually Works (No Gimmicks Needed)” featuring Dr. Angela Jackson. Get the real drivers of motivation, leadership, and growth path design, no pizza party required. Feeling stretched thin but still trying to “stay positive”? Grab our free Positivity Without Pretending Toolkit. It’s a quick, honest reset for people leaders who want to show up without faking it. In five minutes or less, you’ll reframe, refuel, and lead with heart (even when you're running on fumes). Download it now and take the pressure off.     No, You Hang Up First (Let’s Keep Connecting) ·       Did today’s episode resonate with you? Leave us a review sharing your favorite insight and we’ll send you a free signed copy of I See You! A Leader’s Guide to Energizing Your Team through Radical Empathy. ·       Have another question that we can answer? Leave us a Speakpipe audio clip and we’ll answer it in an upcoming episode. ·       Don’t want to miss another episode? If you’re a Spotify listener, find our show here and click “Follow.” If you’re an Apple Podcast listener, click here and make sure to hit “+Follow.” ·       Want access to a bunch of free resources for your work life? This is your personal jackpot that gives you access to the frameworks that help us thrive both personally and professionally. Whether you’re trying to improve your daily routine, flesh out an idea that you’ve had for quite some time, or want to add more play into your day - these resources have got your back. ·       Want 2 emails a week from us? One with a quick tip you can implement right away to enhance your personal and/or professional lives & one of our famous F.A.I.L. Fourward Friday newsletters? Subscribe here. Connect with Erin Diehl x improve it! ·       Erin’s website ·       Erin’s Instagram ·       Erin’s TikTok ·       Erin’s LinkedIn ·       improve it!’s website ·       improve it!’s InstagramSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of Workday Playdate, Erin flips the mentorship script. No more waiting for a career fairy godparent to swoop in with the perfect job offer—this is about building real relationships that actually move the needle. Whether you're fresh out of school, mid-pivot, or just tired of one-sided networking coffee dates, Erin delivers a refreshingly practical (and improv-inspired) five-step framework to help you find the right mentor and become the kind of mentee they want to invest in. From staying close to your current circle to building your own career Avengers-style “board of advisors,” this episode is packed with tools to help you stop wishing for mentorship magic and start building it. Inside This Episode: Why being “mentee material” matters more than having a polished pitch How to spot potential mentors hiding in plain sight Ways to offer value before asking for guidance Why mentorship is a long game (and how to play it well) How to build your own personal board of advisors Who This Episode Is For: If you're craving career guidance, but don’t know who to ask (or how) this episode is for you. Perfect for early career pros, mid-level pivoteers, or anyone ready to stop networking and start connecting. So close the LinkedIn tab, put down that awkward DM, and come have a Workday Playdate with us. Feeling stretched thin but still trying to “stay positive”? Grab our free Positivity Without Pretending Toolkit. It’s a quick, honest reset for people leaders who want to show up without faking it. In five minutes or less, you’ll reframe, refuel, and lead with heart (even when you're running on fumes). Download it now and take the pressure off. No, You Hang Up First (Let’s Keep Connecting) Did today’s episode resonate with you? Leave us a review sharing your favorite insight and we’ll send you a free signed copy of I See You! A Leader’s Guide to Energizing Your Team through Radical Empathy. Have another question that we can answer? Leave us a Speakpipe audio clip and we’ll answer it in an upcoming episode. Don’t want to miss another episode? If you’re a Spotify listener, find our show here and click “Follow.” If you’re an Apple Podcast listener, click here and make sure to hit “+Follow.” Want access to a bunch of free resources for your work life? This is your personal jackpot that gives you access to the frameworks that help us thrive both personally and professionally. Whether you’re trying to improve your daily routine, flesh out an idea that you’ve had for quite some time, or want to add more play into your day - these resources have got your back. Want 2 emails a week from us? One with a quick tip you can implement right away to enhance your personal and/or professional lives & one of our famous F.A.I.L. Fourward Friday newsletters? Subscribe here. Connect with Erin Diehl x improve it! Erin’s website Erin’s Instagram Erin’s TikTok Erin’s LinkedIn improve it!’s website improve it!’s Instagram See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In today’s snack, Erin’s busting the myth that a mentor is just going to magically appear and fix everything. The Problem: We’ve all heard it—“You need a mentor!” But asking for one feels like proposing after two dates. We freeze, wait, and convince ourselves no one has time for us. The Improv Hack to Try: The Spotlight Flip Instead of waiting for someone to spotlight you, flip the light on THEM. Next time you meet someone you admire, ask: "I love how you [specific thing]. If you were giving a TED Talk to your younger self, what would it be about?" No pressure, just pure curiosity. Why it works: In improv, making others look good builds trust. Spotlighting someone makes them more likely to engage with you, so mentorship might follow naturally. Bonus Tip: Mentorship isn’t always formal. Keep a list of “unofficial mentors” to learn from passively. Wednesday Tease: Catch Episode 298 this Wednesday: Stop Waiting for a Mentor to Magically Appear—Start Here Instead. Don’t miss it! Feeling overwhelmed in high-stakes moments? Download our latest free resource—The Clarity Under Pressure Toolkit—a concise guide to navigating uncertainty with poise. In just five minutes, you'll learn how to center yourself, assess the situation, and respond with confidence. This actionable toolkit equips you with the tools to stay grounded and make clear decisions when it matters most.     No, You Hang Up First (Let’s Keep Connecting) Did today’s episode resonate with you? Leave us a review sharing your favorite insight and we’ll send you a free signed copy of I See You! A Leader’s Guide to Energizing Your Team through Radical Empathy. Have another question that we can answer? Leave us a Speakpipe audio clip and we’ll answer it in an upcoming episode. Don’t want to miss another episode? If you’re a Spotify listener, find our show here and click “Follow.” If you’re an Apple Podcast listener, click here and make sure to hit “+Follow.” Want access to a bunch of free resources for your work life? This is your personal jackpot that gives you access to the frameworks that help us thrive both personally and professionally. Whether you’re trying to improve your daily routine, flesh out an idea that you’ve had for quite some time, or want to add more play into your day - these resources have got your back. Want 2 emails a week from us? One with a quick tip you can implement right away to enhance your personal and/or professional lives & one of our famous F.A.I.L. Fourward Friday newsletters? Subscribe here. Connect with Erin Diehl x improve it! Erin’s website Erin’s Instagram Erin’s TikTok Erin’s LinkedIn improve it!’s website improve it!’s Instagram  See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of Workday Playdate, Erin throws out the five-year plan, the “dream job” myth, and that tired advice to just “follow your passion.” Instead, she’s joined by creative powerhouse and Mighty Forces founder Amanda Hirsch to help you rethink what career ownership actually looks like today. From office misfit to author, storyteller, and mom, Amanda shares the real talk behind taking back your path when no one else is handing you a roadmap. This episode is for anyone stuck in career limbo, burnt out on job titles, or wondering what’s next (without needing a full reinvention). Whether you're pivoting, plateauing, or plotting your next move, Erin and Amanda remind us: life is more improv than plan, and you're more ready than you think. Inside This Episode: Why waiting for “clarity” might be keeping you stuck The high cost of chasing the perfect job How to take action even when you don’t have it all figured out The power of storytelling in reclaiming your career narrative What Amanda learned from being a misfit—and why that might be your superpower One small step you can take this week to start owning your path Who This Episode Is For: Anyone navigating a pivot, questioning what’s next, or tired of pretending their LinkedIn headline tells the whole story. If you’re ready to choose your career—not just chase it—this episode is for you. So pause the inbox scroll, close that half-written cover letter, and come have a Workday Playdate with us. Ready to take one small step toward showing up with more clarity and confidence? Download our newest freebie—The Confident Leader’s Toolkit—a 4-step guide to crafting a professional persona that actually feels like you. This plug-and-play resource helps you define how you want to be seen, align your presence with your purpose, and lead with authenticity (not performance).   No, You Hang Up First (Let’s Keep Connecting) Did today’s episode resonate with you? Leave us a review sharing your favorite insight and we’ll send you a free signed copy of I See You! A Leader’s Guide to Energizing Your Team through Radical Empathy. Have another question that we can answer? Leave us a Speakpipe audio clip and we’ll answer it in an upcoming episode. Don’t want to miss another episode? If you’re a Spotify listener, find our show here and click “Follow.” If you’re an Apple Podcast listener, click here and make sure to hit “+Follow.” Want access to a bunch of free resources for your work life? This is your personal jackpot that gives you access to the frameworks that help us thrive both personally and professionally. Whether you’re trying to improve your daily routine, flesh out an idea that you’ve had for quite some time, or want to add more play into your day - these resources have got your back. Want 2 emails a week from us? One with a quick tip you can implement right away to enhance your personal and/or professional lives & one of our famous F.A.I.L. Fourward Friday newsletters? Subscribe here. Connect with Amanda Hirsch Amanda’s website Amanda’s LinkedIn Mighty Forces website Amanda’s Instagram Amanda’s TikTok Connect with Erin Diehl x improve it! Erin’s website Erin’s Instagram Erin’s TikTok Erin’s LinkedIn improve it!’s website improve it!’s Instagram See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In today’s Workday Playdate Snack, Erin's busting one of the biggest myths in the career playbook: that the “perfect job” will just... show up and fix everything. Spoiler: It won’t. And waiting for it? That can keep you stuck. The Problem: 52% of workers are eyeing a career change. 70% feel disengaged. Why? Because they’re waiting. For the dream job. For clarity. For permission. But it's important to remember one crucial truth: you are the plan. The Improv Hack to Try: Tag Yourself In When improv scenes stall, someone jumps in and shifts the energy. In your career? That someone is you. Pick one stuck spot Ask: “If I were directing this, what would happen next?” DO. THAT. THING. Apply. Pitch. Rewrite your bio. Start the damn thing. Why it works: Gets you out of wait-mode Sparks momentum fast Reframes your mindset: You’re not lost, you’re in charge Coming up Wednesday: Don’t miss Episode 297: The Perfect Job Doesn’t Exist: How to Stop Waiting and Start Choosing Your Path featuring writer/performer Amanda Hirsch. Get real talk, big laughs, and a permission slip to choose yourself. Because the best career move is the one you actually make. Feeling overwhelmed in high-stakes moments? Download our latest free resource—The Clarity Under Pressure Toolkit—a concise guide to navigating uncertainty with poise. In just five minutes, you'll learn how to center yourself, assess the situation, and respond with confidence. This actionable toolkit equips you with the tools to stay grounded and make clear decisions when it matters most.     No, You Hang Up First (Let’s Keep Connecting) Did today’s episode resonate with you? Leave us a review sharing your favorite insight and we’ll send you a free signed copy of I See You! A Leader’s Guide to Energizing Your Team through Radical Empathy. Have another question that we can answer? Leave us a Speakpipe audio clip and we’ll answer it in an upcoming episode. Don’t want to miss another episode? If you’re a Spotify listener, find our show here and click “Follow.” If you’re an Apple Podcast listener, click here and make sure to hit “+Follow.” Want access to a bunch of free resources for your work life? This is your personal jackpot that gives you access to the frameworks that help us thrive both personally and professionally. Whether you’re trying to improve your daily routine, flesh out an idea that you’ve had for quite some time, or want to add more play into your day - these resources have got your back. Want 2 emails a week from us? One with a quick tip you can implement right away to enhance your personal and/or professional lives & one of our famous F.A.I.L. Fourward Friday newsletters? Subscribe here. Connect with Erin Diehl x improve it! Erin’s website Erin’s Instagram Erin’s TikTok Erin’s LinkedIn improve it!’s website improve it!’s Instagram See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of Workday Playdate, Erin tackles the awkward elevator small talk, the lukewarm return-to-office bagels, and the actual leadership challenges of hybrid work. From re-establishing team rituals to defining the “why” behind your office days, this episode is a field guide for anyone trying to rebuild connection in a flexible work world without burning out. Whether you're managing Zoom fatigue, leading a team that’s half-in, half-out, or just trying to make Tuesdays feel less like a ghost town, Erin’s giving you 10 practical, human-first ways to lead with empathy, adaptability, and a little playfulness. Because team culture doesn’t build itself, and your people notice when it’s missing. Inside This Episode: The secret to getting buy-in on hybrid? Define purpose, not policy. Why empathy beats mandates every time. How to spot (and respond to) those “awkward but honest” moments like a pro. Flexibility isn’t a perk—it’s the new standard. Why spontaneous hallway convos still matter (and how to make them happen). How modeling wellness creates psychological safety. Training teams for change so the next curveball doesn’t throw them. Rituals, celebrations, and why your team actually wants them—even if they roll their eyes. Who This Episode Is For: People leaders, HR pros, team managers—or anyone navigating the weird, wonderful world of hybrid work. If you want your people to show up (and stay), this episode is your blueprint for building trust, boosting engagement, and creating a workplace that feels good to be in. Take a break from your emails, slam your laptop shut for 30ish minutes, and come have a Workday Playdate with us. Here is your link to download the free 100 Non-Cheesy Icebreakers that Erin mentioned in the episode. Ready to take one small step toward showing up with more clarity and confidence? Download our newest freebie—The Confident Leader’s Toolkit—a 4-step guide to crafting a professional persona that actually feels like you. This plug-and-play resource helps you define how you want to be seen, align your presence with your purpose, and lead with authenticity (not performance).   No, You Hang Up First (Let’s Keep Connecting) Did today’s episode resonate with you? Leave us a review sharing your favorite insight and we’ll send you a free signed copy of I See You! A Leader’s Guide to Energizing Your Team through Radical Empathy. Have another question that we can answer? Leave us a Speakpipe audio clip and we’ll answer it in an upcoming episode. Don’t want to miss another episode? If you’re a Spotify listener, find our show here and click “Follow.” If you’re an Apple Podcast listener, click here and make sure to hit “+Follow.” Want access to a bunch of free resources for your work life? This is your personal jackpot that gives you access to the frameworks that help us thrive both personally and professionally. Whether you’re trying to improve your daily routine, flesh out an idea that you’ve had for quite some time, or want to add more play into your day - these resources have got your back. Want 2 emails a week from us? One with a quick tip you can implement right away to enhance your personal and/or professional lives & one of our famous F.A.I.L. Fourward Friday newsletters? Subscribe here. Connect with Erin Diehl x improve it! Erin’s website Erin’s Instagram Erin’s TikTok Erin’s LinkedIn improve it!’s website improve it!’s Instagram See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In today’s Workday Playdate Snack, we’re tackling the hybrid work headache—and no, we’re not talking about the flickering office lights or the ancient coffee machine no one remembers how to clean. We’re talking about the emotional fog that creeps in when your team is half-on-Zoom, half-in-person, and 100% disconnected. The Problem: You’ve asked your team to return to the office a few days a week. Some show up with smiles. Others show up with...resentment. And some just show up for the snacks. Hybrid work isn’t just a scheduling issue—it’s a culture shift. And if you’re the one coordinating who’s in, who’s out, and whether “Taco Tuesday” counts as strategy… we see you. Why It Matters: According to Gallup, only 28% of employees feel connected in hybrid environments. Connection isn’t a luxury—it’s the glue. Without it, collaboration and morale fall flat. The Improv Hack to Try: The Wrong Name Game In your next meeting, have everyone make up a goofy name and fake job title. “Hi, I’m Tater McSnazzle, Chief Glitter Strategist.” “I’m Rufus Bucket, Senior Cloud Fluffer.” Yes, it’s weird. But it works. Play cuts through awkwardness and builds connection fast—whether you’re face-to-face or floating in the Zoomverse. Why it works: Breaks the ice in a low-stakes, high-fun way Sparks laughter and lowers tension Creates a sense of shared experience—even virtually Coming up Wednesday: Ready to go deeper? Don’t miss Episode 296: Hybrid Headaches? Here’s How to Make the Office Return Less Awkward & More Awesome. You’ll get practical tools to rehumanize your hybrid culture, one joyful moment at a time. Because rebuilding connection isn’t about forcing people back to desks—it’s about helping them find each other again. Feeling overwhelmed in high-stakes moments? Download our latest free resource—The Clarity Under Pressure Toolkit—a concise guide to navigating uncertainty with poise. In just five minutes, you'll learn how to center yourself, assess the situation, and respond with confidence. This actionable toolkit equips you with the tools to stay grounded and make clear decisions when it matters most.     No, You Hang Up First (Let’s Keep Connecting) Did today’s episode resonate with you? Leave us a review sharing your favorite insight and we’ll send you a free signed copy of I See You! A Leader’s Guide to Energizing Your Team through Radical Empathy. Have another question that we can answer? Leave us a Speakpipe audio clip and we’ll answer it in an upcoming episode. Don’t want to miss another episode? If you’re a Spotify listener, find our show here and click “Follow.” If you’re an Apple Podcast listener, click here and make sure to hit “+Follow.” Want access to a bunch of free resources for your work life? This is your personal jackpot that gives you access to the frameworks that help us thrive both personally and professionally. Whether you’re trying to improve your daily routine, flesh out an idea that you’ve had for quite some time, or want to add more play into your day - these resources have got your back. Want 2 emails a week from us? One with a quick tip you can implement right away to enhance your personal and/or professional lives & one of our famous F.A.I.L. Fourward Friday newsletters? Subscribe here. Connect with Erin Diehl x improve it! Erin’s website Erin’s Instagram Erin’s TikTok Erin’s LinkedIn improve it!’s website improve it!’s Instagram See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of Workday Playdate, Erin explores what every team—at work and at home—needs more of: play. Joined by real-life partners and improv powerhouses Greg Tavares and Amber Nash, this episode dives into how playful communication can defuse tension, deepen connection, and make conflict feel a whole lot less... combative. Greg, an improv teacher and facilitator with decades of experience helping teams collaborate more creatively, joins forces with Amber, a voiceover actor best known as Pam on Archer, to unpack how the tools of improv aren’t just for the stage—they’re for the conference room, the kitchen, and everywhere in between. From mismatched communication styles to stuck-in-a-rut dynamics, this episode is a fresh take on resolving conflict without losing your cool—or your connection. Whether you're managing workplace drama or relationship tension, this one’s packed with practical wisdom and plenty of laughs. Inside This Episode: Why “Yes, And” is more than an improv cliché—it’s a relationship game-changer How to argue less by listening more (and differently) The science behind play and its impact on emotional regulation Spotting your partner’s “bids” for connection—and not missing them How to fight in ways that are productive, not punitive Real-world exercises to bring more curiosity and humor into conflict Why improv-trained teams collaborate better—and how to borrow their tricks Why laughter really is the best medicine for tension What makes couples and coworkers more resilient together Who This Episode Is For: This one’s for anyone tired of the same old arguments—whether with your partner, your teammate, or your boss. If you want to replace reactivity with creativity, and tension with trust, tune in. Whether you’re leading a team or living with one, this episode is your permission slip to play more, fight less—and have way more fun doing it. Take a break from your emails, slam your laptop shut for 30ish minutes, and come have a Workday Playdate with us. Ready to take one small step toward showing up with more clarity and confidence? Download our newest freebie—The Confident Leader’s Toolkit—a 4-step guide to crafting a professional persona that actually feels like you. This plug-and-play resource helps you define how you want to be seen, align your presence with your purpose, and lead with authenticity (not performance).   No, You Hang Up First (Let’s Keep Connecting) Did today’s episode resonate with you? Leave us a review sharing your favorite insight and we’ll send you a free signed copy of I See You! A Leader’s Guide to Energizing Your Team through Radical Empathy. Have another question that we can answer? Leave us a Speakpipe audio clip and we’ll answer it in an upcoming episode. Don’t want to miss another episode? If you’re a Spotify listener, find our show here and click “Follow.” If you’re an Apple Podcast listener, click here and make sure to hit “+Follow.” Want access to a bunch of free resources for your work life? This is your personal jackpot that gives you access to the frameworks that help us thrive both personally and professionally. Whether you’re trying to improve your daily routine, flesh out an idea that you’ve had for quite some time, or want to add more play into your day - these resources have got your back. Want 2 emails a week from us? One with a quick tip you can implement right away to enhance your personal and/or professional lives & one of our famous F.A.I.L. Fourward Friday newsletters? Subscribe here. Connect with Greg Tavares and Amber Nash Connect with them at improvforcouples@gmail.com Greg’s LinkedIn Connect with Erin Diehl x improve it! Erin’s website Erin’s Instagram Erin’s TikTok Erin’s LinkedIn improve it!’s website improve it!’s Instagram See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In today’s Workday Playdate Snack, we’re talking about the kind of conflict resolution that doesn’t involve a six-part text thread or passive-aggressive dishwasher loading. We’re diving into how playfulness—yes, even mid-fight—can be your secret weapon for stronger, happier relationships. Whether it’s your partner, roommate, or that one family member who treats the group chat like a TED Talk… this snack is for you. The Problem: You’re crushing deadlines at work—but stuck in a weird silence at home. Maybe it was about socks. Or the dishes. Or nothing at all. And now you’re trying to lead a team while low-key simmering with resentment. Spoiler: unresolved tension doesn’t stay home. It follows you to Zoom. Why It Matters: Research shows emotional residue from personal relationships impacts performance, presence, and psychological safety at work. You can't be fully present in the boardroom if you're still replaying last night’s kitchen argument. The Improv Hack to Try: The Silent Scene Yes, it’s as ridiculous—and effective—as it sounds.  Next time things get tense with your partner, skip the serious convo and act out a mundane task (like folding laundry) with exaggerated mime and facial expressions. No words. Just play. Why it works: Interrupts the fight-or-flight cycle Sparks laughter and connection Rebuilds rhythm and sync—without a 45-minute processing session It's improv for intimacy. Lucille Ball meets couple’s therapy. Coming up Wednesday: Ready to take this playful practice even deeper? Don’t miss Episode 295 — Play More, Fight Less: The Secret to Happier Relationships featuring improv power couple Greg Tavares and Amber Nash (yep, Pam from Archer). Ready to take one small step toward showing up with more clarity and confidence? Download our newest freebie—The Confident Leader’s Toolkit—a 4-step guide to crafting a professional persona that actually feels like you. This plug-and-play resource helps you define how you want to be seen, align your presence with your purpose, and lead with authenticity (not performance). No, You Hang Up First (Let’s Keep Connecting) Did today’s episode resonate with you? Leave us a review sharing your favorite insight and we’ll send you a free signed copy of I See You! A Leader’s Guide to Energizing Your Team through Radical Empathy. Have another question that we can answer? Leave us a Speakpipe audio clip and we’ll answer it in an upcoming episode. Don’t want to miss another episode? If you’re a Spotify listener, find our show here and click “Follow.” If you’re an Apple Podcast listener, click here and make sure to hit “+Follow.” Want access to a bunch of free resources for your work life? This is your personal jackpot that gives you access to the frameworks that help us thrive both personally and professionally. Whether you’re trying to improve your daily routine, flesh out an idea that you’ve had for quite some time, or want to add more play into your day - these resources have got your back. Want 2 emails a week from us? One with a quick tip you can implement right away to enhance your personal and/or professional lives & one of our famous F.A.I.L. Fourward Friday newsletters? Subscribe here. Connect with Erin Diehl x improve it! Erin’s website Erin’s Instagram Erin’s TikTok Erin’s LinkedIn improve it!’s website improve it!’s Instagram See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.