The Spark Konnect

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...

Summary Join Kassy LaBorie in a deep and engaging conversation with David Kolmer, an instructional designer with a rich background in theater, opera, and education. They explore creativity, learning, cultural experiences, and the intersection of art and instructional design. David brings his experience working and living in Thailand to the show, and his happy-go-lucky approach to all aspects of hi...

Summary In this brand new episode of the Spark Konnect, body language expert and former professional cyclist Traci L.  Brown shares insights on how to read what people are saying subliminally, the mental side of sports, confidence, and how athletic discipline translates into effective communication and personal growth. Tune in for an engaging discussion that challenges our perspective on self-conf...

Summary Join this week’s conversation between Kassy LaBorie and Bridget K. Brown as they delve into the importance of storytelling in facilitation and instructional design. This conversation is all about emotional honesty, and finding exciting and genuine ways of connecting with people - whether it be an audience of 2 or 200. Bridget brings her 15 years of expertise as an actress, writer, and inst...

Summary In this heartfelt and personal interview, Dr. Keith Keating shares his journey from a dancer and actor to a learning development expert. Dr. Keating shares how overcoming adversity can lead you to places you never thought you’d go. His endless optimism will inspire you, and help explain how artistry influences facilitation. Dr. Keating emphasizes the importance of authentic presence, and p...

In today’s conversation Kassy LaBorie interviews Tina BE, an intuitive communication expert who shares her journey of embracing creativity and the power of presence in communication. Tina BE discusses the importance of listening, grounding oneself, and the role of curiosity in effective communication. She also explains her unique approach of using freestyle rap to engage audiences and navigate cri...

In this engaging conversation, Kassy LaBorie interviews Jordan Taylor, a corporate trainer and musician, exploring the intersection of music, performance, and effective training techniques. They discuss the importance of audience engagement, the role of creativity in training, and how personal experiences can enhance the learning environment. Jordan shares insights from his time at GoDaddy, the de...

In this exciting conversation, Kassy LaBorie and Vanessa Hoffman explore the intersection of vocal performance and professional development. Vanessa shares her journey as a singer and trainer, discussing how her musical background informs her approach to training and engagement. They delve into the challenges of vocal performance, the importance of breath control, and the need for vocal care among...

In this brand new episode, Kassy LaBorie and Kirsten Anderson explore the transformative power of play in adult life, particularly in the workplace. Kirsten shares her journey from the toy industry to becoming a playologist, emphasizing the importance of play for creativity, team building, and psychological safety. They discuss practical techniques for integrating play into professional settings,...

In this engaging conversation, Kassy LaBorie interviews Russ Powell, a multifaceted artist and leadership trainer. They explore the connections between juggling, music, and effective leadership, discussing how artistic expression can enhance facilitation and training. Russ shares his journey from street performing in New Orleans to becoming an executive coach, emphasizing the importance of practic...

In this episode, Amy Chapman, a professional in talent development, shares her journey from theater to corporate training. She emphasizes the importance of creativity in learning and how the arts can transform thinking and problem-solving. Amy discusses her innovative approaches to training, the significance of emotional intelligence, and the need for engaging learning experiences. She also provid...

In this episode, Kassy LaBorie and guest Gordon Lam explore the intersection of music and facilitation, emphasizing the importance of learning through experience, the transition to virtual training, and the role of authenticity in engaging audiences. They discuss how preparation and the ability to embrace mistakes can enhance the training experience, as well as the nuances of using humor in a corp...

In this special pop up Sports & Facilitation episode, Kassy LaBorie and guest, Alex Dumas explore how athletic experiences shape personal growth, confidence, and public speaking skills. Alex shares his journey from feeling insecure to finding confidence through football, emphasizing the importance of practice and preparation. They delve into the mindset required for effective performance and i...

Surprise! 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗦𝗽𝗮𝗿𝗸 𝗞𝗼𝗻𝗻𝗲𝗰𝘁 podcast is launching a 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁𝘀 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗙𝗮𝗰𝗶𝗹𝗶𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗽𝗼𝗽-𝘂𝗽 𝘀𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗲𝘀. Every once in a while, an episode will drop exploring how 𝗮𝘁𝗵𝗹𝗲𝘁𝗶𝗰 𝗲𝘅𝗽𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝘀𝗵𝗮𝗽𝗲𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝘄𝗮𝘆 𝘄𝗲 𝘀𝗽𝗲𝗮𝗸, 𝘁𝗿𝗮𝗶𝗻, 𝗹𝗲𝗮𝗱, 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗽𝗲𝗿𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺 𝘂𝗻𝗱𝗲r 𝗽𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘀𝘂𝗿𝗲.

In this conversation, Kassy LaBorie and Steven Patterson explore the intersection of vocal performance and learning and development. They discuss the importance of storytelling, authenticity, and emotional connection in both singing and training. Steven shares his journey as a vocal performer and how it informs his work, emphasizing the need for trust, preparedness, and the power of silence and br...