The Spark Konnect

Summary Roger Reitzel has been a lounge singer, stand-up comic, real estate trainer, sitcom writer, commercial actor, and professional hamburger catcher - which is somehow all part of the same career. In today’s episode, he explains how comedy made him a better trainer, why knowing your audience is everything, and how seven colorful tuxedos helped launch his creative journey. Roger also shares why...

Summary Eryc Eyl is a professional speaker, leadership expert, workplace culture champion, and longtime DJ - because apparently one career wasn’t enough. In this episode, he explains how he stopped delivering beige “lectures” and created the keynote dance party, blending music, movement, and leadership lessons. Eryc shares how DJing helps audiences learn, reconnect after breakouts, and leave energ...

Summary What do improv, musical theater, and surviving a disastrous teachback have in common? They all teach you to listen, pivot, commit, and stop waiting for the perfect thing to say. Abbey Cooke (aka Ms. Lizard Brain) joins Kassy to unpack “yes, and,” relationship bids, the wrong-name game, and why the first idea is often better than the most overthought one. They also discuss making your partn...

Summary Join Kassy this week as Josh Penzell brings theater, leadership, creativity, and AI together in one lively conversation about why work should feel more like a live performance than a perfectly edited film. He explains how rehearsal, flexibility, and a little messiness can help people collaborate, learn, and adapt when technology refuses to follow the script. Along the way, we explore artis...

Summary The secret to unforgettable audience engagement is not polish - it's making people feel like the story is happening to them. Carlo D'Amore reveals how he built Live in Theater, the interactive murder mystery company that turns strangers into detectives and teams into co-creators. Carlo breaks down how he transforms real New York history into participatory theater that works in the...

Summary In this week’s episode, Rob Dubin shares his extraordinary journey from documentary filmmaker to sailing around the world, and how his experiences shaped his insights on resilience, leadership, and designing a meaningful life. Discover how storytelling, emotional connection, and intentional living can transform your personal and professional path. Rob shares insights from his years of expe...

Summary This week is an inspiring one. Dr. Terry Chase joins Kassy LaBorie for a powerful conversation about resilience, reinvention, and what it means to build a wholehearted and fulfilling life after a life-changing injury. From athletics and teaching to nursing, coaching, speaking, and facilitation, Terry shares how each chapter of her life shaped her perspective on purpose, access, and human c...

Summary This brand new episode dives into guest Lauren Waldman’s unique blend of music, dance, learning science, and how that creative background shaped the way she thinks about memory, attention, and learning design. She and Kassy also talk about the story behind Learning Pirate, Lauren’s brand. They also discuss why Lauren became so outspoken about the science of learning, and how her brand grew...

Summary Join Kassy in this special live edition of Spark Konnect with Christina Mevec, Allison Meyer Bond, and Andy Eninger for a fun conversation about creativity, improv, and learning design. This episode brings together a dynamic panel of learning professionals who are also artists, performers, and makers. It explores how those creative experiences shape the way they facilitate, connect with le...

Summary Join us for this brand new episode of the Spark Konnect with Brad Montgomery and of course, our fabulous host Kassy LaBorie! In this week’s engaging interview, Brad shares his journey from magician to corporate speaker, emphasizing the power of encouragement, humor, and adaptability in presentations. Kassy and Brad share practical tips on modular speech design, handling stage mishaps, and...

Summary Join Jamion Christian and Kassy LaBorie for an inspiring conversation exploring Jamion’s journey from athlete to coach. Jamion Christian is a former basketball player-turned-coach, with a storied career starting way back in high school with a spotless 26-0 record in his senior year - cementing his place as team captain at Mount St. Mary’s during his college years. His success as an athlete...

Summary In this week’s new episode of the Spark Konnect, vocal influence expert Rebecca P. Murray shares insights on the social science of language, the power of voice in leadership, and practical tips for enhancing vocal confidence. Discover how to leverage your voice for influence, authenticity, and impact in professional settings. Rebecca and Kassy both share some important insights in how wome...

Summary Join us for this brand new episode of the Spark Konnect as Caitlin Drago, a leadership coach and theater enthusiast, shares her unique approach to improving interpersonal skills and team dynamics through improv techniques. This episode explores practical insights on fostering trust, flexibility, and creativity in both personal and professional settings.  Caitlin’s Links: LinkedIn: https://...

Summary In this episode, Kassy joins guests Sunilyn Hertt and Darryl Wyles to explore how these two facilitators turned their passion for fun, self-expression, and community into a thriving online swag business. Discover the power of humor, authenticity, and personal connection in building a brand that celebrates the talent development industry. Sunilyn’s Links: LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/sunilyn-h...

Summary Join us this week for a lively conversation with voice actors and facilitators Marc Chase and Elan Ressel who explore the art of authentic virtual communication. Whether you're facilitating online training or participating in virtual meetings, their tips will help you connect more effectively and build trust in digital spaces. Elan’s Links: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elanres...

Summary In this week’s episode of the Spark Konnect, Julie Dirksen joins Kassy LaBorie for an engaging deep dive into plein air painting, authorship, and the importance of being able to see what is there instead of letting your mind fill in the blanks. Julie shares some nuanced insights into how she uses artistic strategies in the real world, and how everyone can be an artist. Kassy and Julie disc...

Summary In this episode, Carl shares the surprising parallels between football and keynote speaking—showing that the fundamentals of honesty, forgiveness, and relentless preparation are the real playmakers. You’ll discover how moving across multiple positions on the defense built his adaptability and mental strength, and learn how that same flexibility can elevate your performance in any arena. Ka...

SummaryIn this inspiring episode of the Spark Konnect, John Register shares his incredible journey from Olympic athlete to Paralympic medalist and keynote speaker. He discusses the importance of rebuilding yourself through hardship, building stamina, and focusing on what truly matters to elevate your life and career. John has lived many different lives and has so much life experience to draw from...

Summary In this week's episode of the Spark Konnect Tracy Solarek, an emotional intelligence expert and singer, shares her journey from classical singing to keynote speaking. She emphasizes the importance of integrating artistry into professional life, and keeping the light in your every day life. Discover insights on vocal techniques, the power of authentic recognition, and practical tips for...

SummaryJoin Kassy and a panel of some previous guests on the show alongside new faces in this very special LIVE edition of the Spark Konnect! This episode is a little different than the regular show but that's what makes it even more exciting - with such a great panel, this is an episode you definitely don't want to miss. Join Kassy and the crew and immerse yourself in the energy of a live...

SummaryIn this brand new episode of the Spark Konnect with Kassy Laborie, Ashley Schneider shares her inspiring journey of running across America to raise MS awareness, the importance of movement, and how to build confidence through consistent effort and community support. Tune in to learn about her personal journey that has led her to the creation of a successful charity that’s raised over 4 mill...

Summary In this week’s episode of the Spark Konnect with Kassy Laborie, Jon Giganti shares his journey from a high-level athlete to a leadership coach. He emphasizes vulnerability, authenticity, and the importance of embracing failure. Discover how his athletic background influences his approach to life and work, and learn practical insights on how to 'play on your front foot' and leverage 'choice...

Summary In this engaging interview, Adriana Muñoz, an ER nurse and endurance athlete, shares insights on navigating conflict, building resilience, and the parallels between athletic training and effective communication. Discover practical strategies for managing interpersonal conflict, embracing discomfort, and leveraging athletic principles to enhance professional and personal growth. Adrianna’s...

Summary In this week’s episode, Peter Donnello, the Imaginatist, joins Kassy to share insights on how to ignite and strengthen imagination, creativity, and innovation. Peter sparks the imaginative process through magic, storytelling, and visualization techniques. Peter leverages his experience as a DJ and magician to explain just how important nurturing your imagination at any age can be. Discover...

Summary In this week’s episode of the Spark Konnect, claims adjuster-turned-training director and cosplay designer Guy Baker joins Kassy for an exciting conversation. Guy shares how creativity, role embodiment, and artistic resourcefulness can make training and professional development more engaging than ever. Guy and Kassy discuss the interrelatedness of cosplay and leadership training, and how a...