Using Humor To Find Success In Uncertainty | ASK For Change

What if one of the most powerful tools for navigating uncertainty wasn’t strategy… but fun? In this episode of Ask for Change, host Meridith Elliott Powell sits down with keynote speaker, improv expert, and workplace culture specialist Joel Zeff to explore how humor, play, and positive support can transform teams, leadership, and workplace culture. Drawing from more than 25 years of experience using improv in corporate environments, Joel shares why organizations that embrace creativity, connection, and joy are better equipped to handle disruption, uncertainty, and change. In this episode, you’ll discover: • Why improv is one of the best tools for teaching teamwork and adaptability • How laughter and fun create stronger workplace cultures • Why people are often afraid to think creatively at work • The connection between positive support, confidence, and innovation • How leaders can create environments where people feel safe taking risks • Why reacting well to change matters more than controlling it • The leadership power of asking employees what truly fulfills them Joel also explains why the most successful teams aren’t necessarily the smartest, they’re the teams willing to collaborate, embrace uncertainty, and support each other through it. If you’re leading a team, building culture, or simply trying to bring more energy and connection into your work, this conversation is packed with practical insights and a refreshing perspective on leadership. Connect with Joel Zeff at JoelZeff.com and mention the Ask for Change podcast for a free chapter from his latest book on change and leadership. Subscribe for more conversations designed to help you turn uncertainty into your competitive advantage. ----------------------- In today's rapidly evolving business landscape, thriving in uncertainty isn’t just an option — it's a necessity. With business leadership expert Meridith Elliott Powell, you can transform uncertainty into your competitive advantage. If you enjoy our content, please subscribe to the channel. Plus, visit Meridith’s website for more comprehensive learning and development resources: www.meridithelliottpowell.com – WHO IS MERIDITH ELLIOTT POWELL? – Meridith Elliott Powell CSP, CPAE, is a business coach, thrive specialist, sales strategist, leadership expert, Certified Speaking Professional (CSP), Hall of Fame Speaker, keynote speaker, thought leader, and award-winning author. Holding the CPAE credential (Council of Peers Award for Excellence) from the National Speakers Association, Meridith is recognized among the elite in professional speaking. This prestigious honor celebrates her exceptional speaking abilities, professionalism, philanthropy, and contributions to the speaking industry. Meridith encourages businesses to view uncertainty not as a barrier but as a catalyst for success. In her virtual programs, leadership coaching, online courses, and keynote presentations, she shares her 9-step formula for turning uncertainty into your company’s strategic advantage™. Explore this channel to discover: • Advanced Change Management: Strategies for effectively managing change to stay ahead in dynamic markets. • Succession Planning Excellence: Tactics to ensure seamless leadership transitions. Elevating Employee Engagement: Methods to boost team motivation and productivity. • Leadership Training for Modern Challenges: Training techniques to build resilient and adaptable leaders. • Business Training for Strategic Growth: Strategies tailored to your industry’s unique challenges. • Empowering Leadership Strategies: Insights on developing essential skills for modern team management. • Sales Mastery and Competitive Advantage: Tips to transform and excel in sales strategies. – WHY CHOOSE MERIDITH ELLIOTT POWELL? – As a dynamic and inspirational female motivational speaker and experienced business training professional, Meridith has inspired numerous organizations through her engaging and results-oriented presentations. She is a highly sought-after conference speaker. “ABSOLUTELY INCREDIBLE! I attend leadership events almost every week, and this was the most powerful, engaging, and helpful forum I've seen in years.” Ashley Hawks, 2023 Minneapolis Dealmaker of the Year “THE BEST presentation I’ve heard in MONTHS! Loved listening to your insights — you totally shifted my paradigm. I’m so excited to follow you and learn more!” Carolyn Chivetta, Director of Business Development, Anvil Analytics + Insights Dive deeper into leadership and success by checking out Meridith’s range of books. Book Meridith for your next corporate event or conference to experience the power of inspirational leadership firsthand. She also offers customized business training to meet your organization's specific learning and development needs. Let Meridith's transformative insights help you turn today’s challenges into tomorrow’s opportunities.