The week I recorded this trailer and my first episodes - the second week of September 2025 - Sam Altman had just tweeted “I never took the dead internet theory that seriously but it seems like there are really a lot of LLM-run twitter accounts now.” And then a couple days later Inception Point AI announced they were going to generate 3000 new podcast episodes every week. With fake hosts. Calling anyone who doesn't like them "lazy luddites."It's time to take the dead internet theory seriously, especially if you make things for the internet. So welcome to The Human Internet Theory, a podcast that takes the dead internet seriously and helps you create real human things online to stand out amongst this sea of generated "stuff".Host Jen deHaan has a few decades background on the creative internet, and a decade of experience as a performer. She merges these two things and brings it to you with actionable steps to bring more humanity to what you create for your customers or students online.This lazy luddite hopes that you believe in the undead human internet, and will subscribe to this new show (made by a human) and follow along.Episodes 1-3 will drop next Wednesday, and then new eps drop every Wednesday after that.About and SupportWritten, edited, and hosted by Jen deHaan.Subscribe to this show's newsletter for additional resources https://humaninternettheory.comProduced by Jen deHaan of StereoForest https://stereoforest.comSupport: Your support will help this show continue. Funds will go towards hosting and music licensing for this show and others on StereoForest. This show is produced by an independent HUMAN artist directly affected by the state of the industry. StereoForest does not have any funding or additional support.If you find value in our shows, please consider supporting them with a one time donation at https://stereoforest.com/tipAbout Jen:Jen's professional background is in web software technology (audio/video/web and graphics), working for many years in Silicon Valley. Her focus has been in instructional design, writing, marketing, and education in the creative space. She was also a quality engineer for awhile.As a side quest, Jen became involved in performing, acting, and improv. She taught dance fitness classes despite beginning with two left feet, performed in community theatre, and taught and coached improv comedy and acting at several schools including World’s Greatest Improv School (WGIS) and Queen City Comedy. For awhile Jen was also the Online School Director and Marketing Director at WGIS.Jen has a university degree in teaching creative arts to adults, certification with honours from Vancouver Film School, and a certificate of graduate studies from Tufts University Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy.Jen's website: https://jendehaan.com 5f4e9000-912f-11f0-a761-0baec2c233ea
In this episode, I'm really getting into what I believe is the most important element for creating a compelling character: their point of view. I’ve found that the most interesting thing about a character isn't what they do, but why they do it. A strong, consistent POV is the lens through which your character sees the world, and it’s what separates a memorable performance from a flat cliche.First, I'll give you a clear definition of what a point of view actually is (like, more than just an opinion). Then, I'll walk you through four distinct methods to help you build and establish strong POVs in your own scene work. We'll cover how to use emotion, observation, and justification to inform your characters.Last up... I'll share something that ties it all together, that'll help you build a rich inner life for your character without ever needing to do a boring monologue about their backstory. I'll provide practice exercises for each method that you can use with a group or even on your own. Because I'm a fan of the solo improvs!This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacyPodtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp
Alt title: Get to Skin Suit Town: 3 Exercises to Improve Your ActingIn this episode, I'm diving into one of the best acting exercises you can give yourself: practicing scene work with little dialogue, or even none at all. I’ve found that learning to use physicality, emotional reactions, and environment is what changes a performance from "just saying words real good" to truly embodying a believable character. Or like... as I like to say because it is now improv canon, "get to skin suit town".I’ll explain why taking dialogue away forces you to slow down, live in the scene, and build a story layer by layer. Part of that oh-so-classic "show, don't tell" advice. Then, the exercises. You can add three new exercises to your workout to build this skill. I'll also tell you how to adjust them to practice on your own.And if you do a lot of audio-only improv or have difficulty with nonverbal cues: I’ll specifically explain why this work is still useful, and how you can adapt it to your own unique brain and performance style.As an aside! If you have trim silence features on in your podcast app, I'm gonna guess it'll trim a few intentional pauses in this one ;)Resources Mentioned:Downloadable PDF Exercise Guides: improvupdate.com/downloadsThe Improv Update Discord Community: improvupdate.com/discordFree Improv Worksheet & Newsletter: improvupdate.com/newsletterImprovised Comedy Podcast, Grack Public Access: stereoforest.com/grackDownloadable contentDownload the Free Post-Show Reflection Guide: Sent to your inbox when you subscribe to either newsletter (and added to the footer to each message if you're already subscribed).Get a booklet with six exercises to help you get reps in challenging scenes called "Exercises to Ruin You" More resourcesGet articles about improv: Join the ImprovUpdate newsletter(s) for general improv articles, and articles about neuroinclusive improv and comedy. Join either or both!Get downloads about improv & comedy: Find them here.Review the podcast: Rate and review this podcast on Podchaser.Chat about improv and comedy: Join the Improv Update Discord here.SupportLike this content and want it to continue? Support this podcast here with a one-time tip here: StereoForest.com/tipWe love our podcast host Capitvate.fm! Contact me anytime to ask me anything. You can support my shows by signing up with Captivate here: https://www.captivate.fm/signup?ref=yzjiytzAboutThis podcast was created, written, and is hosted by Jen deHaan. You can a...
Your inner critic might be a key reason you feel stuck, anxious, or in your head during an improv scene. But trying to fight it or ignore it doesn't work. This episode reveals a completely different approach: give that critical energy to your character.I break down the science of why your brain creates that critical voice and how it’s connected to a deep fear of social rejection. You will learn a practical three-step system for working with your inner critic instead of against it.The episode concludes with a practical exercise I'm calling "Accept This Story, You," designed to retrain your brain. This exercise teaches you how to turn that intense analytical energy outward into relentless curiosity and support for your scene partner, transforming what might be your biggest challenge into a pretty useful tool.RESOURCES MENTIONED:Download the Free Post-Show Reflection Guide: https://improvupdate.com/newsletter - get Neurodivergent resources if you select "Performing and your brain" option.Get a booklet with six exercises to help you get reps with challenging scenes "Exercises to Ruin You": https://improvupdate.com/downloads and its YouTube companion https://youtu.be/h2_J4tLqCN0Episode with 7 hacks to help you get out of challenging spots in a scene: https://youtu.be/RTN5KfE7GZ4The science of adaptive and maladaptive perfectionism (related to sport, but a good jumping off point): https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11055971/CONNECT WITH ME:StereoForest Podcast Production: https://stereoforest.comSocial Media: https://tiktok.com/@yourimprovbrainhttps://instagram.com/yourimprovbrainhttps://jendehaan.bsky.socialDownloadable contentDownload the Free Post-Show Reflection Guide: Sent to your inbox when you subscribe to either newsletter (and added to the footer to each message if you're already subscribed).Get a booklet with six exercises to help you get reps in challenging scenes called "Exercises to Ruin You" More resourcesGet articles about improv: Join the ImprovUpdate newsletter(s) for general improv articles, and articles about neuroinclusive improv and comedy. Join either or both!Get downloads about improv & comedy: Find them here.Review the podcast: Rate and review this podcast on Podchaser.Chat about improv and comedy: Join the Improv Update Discord here.SupportLike this content and want it to continue? Support this podcast here with a one-time tip here: StereoForest.com/tipWe love our podcast host Capitvate.fm! Contact me anytime to ask me anything. You can support my shows by signing up with Captivate here: https://www.captivate.fm/signup?ref=yzjiytzAboutThis podcast was created, written, and is hosted by Jen deHaan. You can
We know that failure is the engine of learning, but how do you actually practice it in a safe and productive way? In this episode, I provide a full workout plan with SIX specific exercises designed to put you in challenging situations. Learn practical drills for your practice groups or classes that train you to handle wild scenes, distracting environments, and even challenging scene partners. This is your guide to getting your reps in, building a tolerance for chaos, and developing the confidence that you can handle anything on stage.And you can get these exercises as a handy written PDF. Link for that right below this sentence. Hi!References in this episode: Previous episode mentioned about failure: https://improvupdate.com/7-scene-hacks-to-help-when-you-make-a-mistake/ (video, podcast, etc links on this page)Download PDF mentioned available here: https://improvupdate.com/downloads Watch this episode on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/h2_J4tLqCN0Improvising Solo with a Mannequin: https://jens-discount-improv-emporium.bizPeople mentioned: Berg, Jake Regal, Sebastian Conelli Downloadable contentDownload the Free Post-Show Reflection Guide: Sent to your inbox when you subscribe to either newsletter (and added to the footer to each message if you're already subscribed).Get a booklet with six exercises to help you get reps in challenging scenes called "Exercises to Ruin You" More resourcesGet articles about improv: Join the ImprovUpdate newsletter(s) for general improv articles, and articles about neuroinclusive improv and comedy. Join either or both!Get downloads about improv & comedy: Find them here.Review the podcast: Rate and review this podcast on Podchaser.Chat about improv and comedy: Join the Improv Update Discord here.SupportLike this content and want it to continue? Support this podcast here with a one-time tip here: StereoForest.com/tipWe love our podcast host Capitvate.fm! Contact me anytime to ask me anything. You can support my shows by signing up with Captivate here: https://www.captivate.fm/signup?ref=yzjiytzAboutThis podcast was created, written, and is hosted by Jen deHaan. You can find her bio here.This episode was and edited and produced by StereoForest.com. a...
We are often taught that forgetting is a weakness, especially in improv where details seem really important. It's what we practice all the time!However, forgetting can be a skill to practice. In this episode, I explore the science behind why our brains are designed to forget, and how we can use this adaptive process to our advantage in our scenes and shows. Learn how letting go of details can reduce cognitive load, improve listening, and help you get out of your head and out of your own way in a scene. I'll also cover how this also applies to some neurodivergent performers who process information in different ways. You will also discover a practical pre-show exercise to clear your mind so you can be more present and spontaneous in your scenes inspired by Mo Gawdat.Resources mentioned:Research on Forgetting: https://www.utoronto.ca/news/why-forgetting-really-important-memory-u-t-researchThe PDF resource mentioned in this episode will be available mid-August 2025 at: https://improvupdate.com/downloadsImprov Update Website & Newsletter: ImprovUpdate.com/newslettersYour Improv Brain Discord Community: https://discord.gg/6fAfQ8fhCADownloadable contentDownload the Free Post-Show Reflection Guide: Sent to your inbox when you subscribe to either newsletter (and added to the footer to each message if you're already subscribed).Get a booklet with six exercises to help you get reps in challenging scenes called "Exercises to Ruin You" More resourcesGet articles about improv: Join the ImprovUpdate newsletter(s) for general improv articles, and articles about neuroinclusive improv and comedy. Join either or both!Get downloads about improv & comedy: Find them here.Review the podcast: Rate and review this podcast on Podchaser.Chat about improv and comedy: Join the Improv Update Discord here.SupportLike this content and want it to continue? Support this podcast here with a one-time tip here: StereoForest.com/tipWe love our podcast host Capitvate.fm! Contact me anytime to ask me anything. You can support my shows by signing up with Captivate here: https://www.captivate.fm/signup?ref=yzjiytzAboutThis podcast was created, written, and is hosted by Jen deHaan. You can find her bio here.This episode was and edited and produced by StereoForest.com.
What if the key to becoming a great improviser is the number of failures you accumulate? That moment when you feel like you have failed in a scene, or a scene is falling flat, can feel awful. But it is also one of the most valuable data points for your growth.In this episode, I help you reframe failure as a solvable technical problem. You will learn a toolkit of seven specific, actionable techniques to use that moment you feel a scene is failing. These techniques also help turn these moments into opportunities to help you accelerate your learning. And it's all based on the science of deliberate practice and error correction.Mentioned in this episode: Episode about Mind Going Blank (episode #28): Video PodcastPeople mentioned in this episode: Naval Ravikant Malcolm GladwellAnders EricssonAnd hey, it's episode 30! Nice round number.Downloadable contentDownload the Free Post-Show Reflection Guide: Sent to your inbox when you subscribe to either newsletter (and added to the footer to each message if you're already subscribed).Get a booklet with six exercises to help you get reps in challenging scenes called "Exercises to Ruin You" More resourcesGet articles about improv: Join the ImprovUpdate newsletter(s) for general improv articles, and articles about neuroinclusive improv and comedy. Join either or both!Get downloads about improv & comedy: Find them here.Review the podcast: Rate and review this podcast on Podchaser.Chat about improv and comedy: Join the Improv Update Discord here.SupportLike this content and want it to continue? Support this podcast here with a one-time tip here: StereoForest.com/tipWe love our podcast host Capitvate.fm! Contact me anytime to ask me anything. You can support my shows by signing up with Captivate here: https://www.captivate.fm/signup?ref=yzjiytzAboutThis podcast was created, written, and is hosted by Jen deHaan. You can find her bio here.This episode was and edited and produced by StereoForest.com. Contact StereoForest for information about producing YOUR podcast, website, and more at reasonable rates.Join the FREE StereoForest newsletter for all podcast and show updates at members.stereoforest.com.What does neuroinclusive mean? It means that you create a supportive environment inclusive and...
To be a successful improviser, you have to communicate effectively with everyone on your team. But what happens when people think, communicate, and experience the world differently? In this episode, I break down the common causes of communication breakdown between improvisers, and why assuming everyone is on the same page can lead to invisible struggles and burnout. Discover the single most important skill that allows great improvisers to perform with literally anyone, and learn a clear, four-step path to developing that skill yourself. This is about meeting in the middle, adapting your communication style, and building a stronger, more supportive improv community.I also have an exercise in this episode you might want to try with your classes or teams. There are more details about the specifics in the Improv Update discord general improv chat channel. Or ask! Read and share the web post or grab the YouTube video here: https://improvupdate.com/improving-communication-skills-improvise-with-anyone/Downloadable contentDownload the Free Post-Show Reflection Guide: Sent to your inbox when you subscribe to either newsletter (and added to the footer to each message if you're already subscribed).Get a booklet with six exercises to help you get reps in challenging scenes called "Exercises to Ruin You" More resourcesGet articles about improv: Join the ImprovUpdate newsletter(s) for general improv articles, and articles about neuroinclusive improv and comedy. Join either or both!Get downloads about improv & comedy: Find them here.Review the podcast: Rate and review this podcast on Podchaser.Chat about improv and comedy: Join the Improv Update Discord here.SupportLike this content and want it to continue? Support this podcast here with a one-time tip here: StereoForest.com/tipWe love our podcast host Capitvate.fm! Contact me anytime to ask me anything. You can support my shows by signing up with Captivate here: https://www.captivate.fm/signup?ref=yzjiytzAboutThis podcast was created, written, and is hosted by Jen deHaan. You can find her bio here.This episode was and edited and produced by StereoForest.com. Contact StereoForest for information about producing YOUR podcast, website, and more at reasonable rates.Join the FREE StereoForest newsletter for all podcast and show updates at members.stereoforest.com.What...
That feeling of your mind going completely blank on stage is a top fear for any performer. But what if it's not a personal failure? This week, I explain how this is often a biological response to being overwhelmed, not a lack of ideas. In this episode, you'll learn a simple, three-step system to effectively reboot your brain when it crashes. This practical technique works with your body's natural responses to get you out of your head and painlessly back into the scene, turning a moment of panic into a moment of connection.You'll also learn the final, most important safety net all improvisers have.Read and share the web article for this episode, which includes the YouTube video and this podcast. Find it here.In this episode, I refer to an earlier episode called "A Source of Great Improv Ideas (bonus: Get Out of Your Head)". This was episode 26.Find the YouTube here.Read the article and find the podcast here.Downloadable contentDownload the Free Post-Show Reflection Guide: Sent to your inbox when you subscribe to either newsletter (and added to the footer to each message if you're already subscribed).Get a booklet with six exercises to help you get reps in challenging scenes called "Exercises to Ruin You" More resourcesGet articles about improv: Join the ImprovUpdate newsletter(s) for general improv articles, and articles about neuroinclusive improv and comedy. Join either or both!Get downloads about improv & comedy: Find them here.Review the podcast: Rate and review this podcast on Podchaser.Chat about improv and comedy: Join the Improv Update Discord here.SupportLike this content and want it to continue? Support this podcast here with a one-time tip here: StereoForest.com/tipWe love our podcast host Capitvate.fm! Contact me anytime to ask me anything. You can support my shows by signing up with Captivate here: https://www.captivate.fm/signup?ref=yzjiytzAboutThis podcast was created, written, and is hosted by Jen deHaan. You can find her bio here.This episode was and edited and produced by StereoForest.com. Contact StereoForest for information about producing YOUR podcast, website, and more at reasonable rates.Join the FREE StereoForest newsletter for all podcast and show...
Feeling frustrated, stuck, or even like you're getting worse at improv? This episode reframes the struggle. Discover the difference between productive learning pain and the unnecessary pain that you can walk away from. Learn a clear framework to assess your comedy practice, connect with your "why," and decide if your creative struggle is worth it. Doing this can help you re-engage in improv with more confidence and purpose. And maybe make your growth a bit easier too.Find the web article and YouTube embedded on this page. Downloadable contentDownload the Free Post-Show Reflection Guide: Sent to your inbox when you subscribe to either newsletter (and added to the footer to each message if you're already subscribed).Get a booklet with six exercises to help you get reps in challenging scenes called "Exercises to Ruin You" More resourcesGet articles about improv: Join the ImprovUpdate newsletter(s) for general improv articles, and articles about neuroinclusive improv and comedy. Join either or both!Get downloads about improv & comedy: Find them here.Review the podcast: Rate and review this podcast on Podchaser.Chat about improv and comedy: Join the Improv Update Discord here.SupportLike this content and want it to continue? Support this podcast here with a one-time tip here: StereoForest.com/tipWe love our podcast host Capitvate.fm! Contact me anytime to ask me anything. You can support my shows by signing up with Captivate here: https://www.captivate.fm/signup?ref=yzjiytzAboutThis podcast was created, written, and is hosted by Jen deHaan. You can find her bio here.This episode was and edited and produced by StereoForest.com. Contact StereoForest for information about producing YOUR podcast, website, and more at reasonable rates.Join the FREE StereoForest newsletter for all podcast and show updates at members.stereoforest.com.What does neuroinclusive mean? It means that you create a supportive environment inclusive and accommodating of all cognitive types and abilities to learn, write together, or perform. This, just like the word "neurodiversity", includes both neurodivergent and neurotypical individuals. Which is… you, since that covers everyone!This podcast was made in British Columbia, Canada by StereoForest Podcasts.NoteI mention surveys and written versions in earlier episodes. I am moving this content to ImprovUpdate.com on a new...
If you struggle to come up with specific or original ideas in your improv scenes, there's something you can do between scenes to help with that struggle.This episode of Your Improv Brain reframes the problem of trying to get ideas into a scene. Discover why the key to better creative output isn't forced thinking, but quality input and curiosity to get it there. So you can use your noggin RAM.Learn a practical, no-cost method to fuel your creativity using curiosity, making your ideas and characters richer and more automatic.Downloadable contentDownload the Free Post-Show Reflection Guide: Sent to your inbox when you subscribe to either newsletter (and added to the footer to each message if you're already subscribed).Get a booklet with six exercises to help you get reps in challenging scenes called "Exercises to Ruin You" More resourcesGet articles about improv: Join the ImprovUpdate newsletter(s) for general improv articles, and articles about neuroinclusive improv and comedy. Join either or both!Get downloads about improv & comedy: Find them here.Review the podcast: Rate and review this podcast on Podchaser.Chat about improv and comedy: Join the Improv Update Discord here.SupportLike this content and want it to continue? Support this podcast here with a one-time tip here: StereoForest.com/tipWe love our podcast host Capitvate.fm! Contact me anytime to ask me anything. You can support my shows by signing up with Captivate here: https://www.captivate.fm/signup?ref=yzjiytzAboutThis podcast was created, written, and is hosted by Jen deHaan. You can find her bio here.This episode was and edited and produced by StereoForest.com. Contact StereoForest for information about producing YOUR podcast, website, and more at reasonable rates.Join the FREE StereoForest newsletter for all podcast and show updates at members.stereoforest.com.What does neuroinclusive mean? It means that you create a supportive environment inclusive and accommodating of all cognitive types and abilities to learn, write together, or perform. This, just like the word "neurodiversity", includes both neurodivergent and neurotypical individuals. Which is… you, since that covers everyone!This podcast was made in British Columbia, Canada by StereoForest Podcasts.NoteI mention surveys and written versions in earlier episodes. I am moving this content to ImprovUpdate.com on a new being-developed website. You can always send me any comments, thoughts, feedback, or contributions using a...
Are you sacrificing your well-being for your improv team? This episode of Your Improv Brain challenges the myth that good improvisers must be comedy doormats. Always saying yes outside the scene doesn't help your scene partner in the end.Discover why putting yourself last leads to burnout and how "doing comedy for you first" actually creates more exciting, sustainable, and authentic performances for everyone. Learn practical ways to prioritize your needs and your energy without abandoning your team.Downloadable contentDownload the Free Post-Show Reflection Guide: Sent to your inbox when you subscribe to either newsletter (and added to the footer to each message if you're already subscribed).Get a booklet with six exercises to help you get reps in challenging scenes called "Exercises to Ruin You" More resourcesGet articles about improv: Join the ImprovUpdate newsletter(s) for general improv articles, and articles about neuroinclusive improv and comedy. Join either or both!Get downloads about improv & comedy: Find them here.Review the podcast: Rate and review this podcast on Podchaser.Chat about improv and comedy: Join the Improv Update Discord here.SupportLike this content and want it to continue? Support this podcast here with a one-time tip here: StereoForest.com/tipWe love our podcast host Capitvate.fm! Contact me anytime to ask me anything. You can support my shows by signing up with Captivate here: https://www.captivate.fm/signup?ref=yzjiytzAboutThis podcast was created, written, and is hosted by Jen deHaan. You can find her bio here.This episode was and edited and produced by StereoForest.com. Contact StereoForest for information about producing YOUR podcast, website, and more at reasonable rates.Join the FREE StereoForest newsletter for all podcast and show updates at members.stereoforest.com.What does neuroinclusive mean? It means that you create a supportive environment inclusive and accommodating of all cognitive types and abilities to learn, write together, or perform. This, just like the word "neurodiversity", includes both neurodivergent and neurotypical individuals. Which is… you, since that covers everyone!This podcast was made in British Columbia, Canada by StereoForest Podcasts.NoteI mention surveys and written versions in earlier episodes. I am moving this content to ImprovUpdate.com on a new being-developed website. You can always send me any comments, thoughts, feedback, or contributions using
Tired of being told to "just react like you would in real life" to ground an improv scene? This episode of Your Improv Brain explores advanced techniques for playing the voice of reason or grounded characters in a scene or sustaining them long-term.Discover how shifting from simply "acting normal" to dynamically balancing the scene can make you a more adaptable, supportive, and funnier improviser, especially if "normal" feels challenging.You can also watch this episode on YouTube here or find the website article here.Resources mentioned in this episode:For more information on peas in a pod scenes, you can find more information and an episode (episode #6) to listen to on this page at Improv Update. For more content on the voice of reason, see this page on Improv Update for more episodes and a downloadable PDF document.Downloadable contentDownload the Free Post-Show Reflection Guide: Sent to your inbox when you subscribe to either newsletter (and added to the footer to each message if you're already subscribed).Get a booklet with six exercises to help you get reps in challenging scenes called "Exercises to Ruin You" More resourcesGet articles about improv: Join the ImprovUpdate newsletter(s) for general improv articles, and articles about neuroinclusive improv and comedy. Join either or both!Get downloads about improv & comedy: Find them here.Review the podcast: Rate and review this podcast on Podchaser.Chat about improv and comedy: Join the Improv Update Discord here.SupportLike this content and want it to continue? Support this podcast here with a one-time tip here: StereoForest.com/tipWe love our podcast host Capitvate.fm! Contact me anytime to ask me anything. You can support my shows by signing up with Captivate here: https://www.captivate.fm/signup?ref=yzjiytzAboutThis podcast was created, written, and is hosted by Jen deHaan. You can find her bio here.This episode was and edited and produced by StereoForest.com. Contact StereoForest for information about producing YOUR podcast, website, and more at reasonable rates.Join the FREE StereoForest newsletter for all podcast and show updates at a...
Tired of being told to "get out of your head"? This episode of Your Improv Brain explores a different approach. Discover how your active inner voice, often seen as a distraction, can actually become a powerful tool for your improv. Host Jen deHaan and guest Sabrina Banes discuss practical ways to understand and even harness your mental chatter for more grounded, spontaneous, and less anxious performances.How can an inner monologue help you with a core long-form improv concept? Jen lets you know near the end of the episode.You can also watch this episode on YouTube at the Your Improv Brain channel.About our Guest, Sabrina:Sabrina Banes is an improviser and Tarot reader who lives in Bed Stuy, Brooklyn with a Siamese cat named Kevin. In addition to Manifesto Update Sabrina also performs with her Improv College group The Fae Team and her Highwire troupes Dolly Lana and Jace Spam. Sabrina is also an improviser in and co-creator of Manifesto Update, produced by StereoForest.See Sabrina's team The Fae with Improv College here: https://youtube.com/@improvcollegeAnd watch our show Manifesto Update on Stereoforest here: https://youtube.com/@stereoforest (first episode June 17, 2025) or listen to the podcast version here https://stereoforest.com/manifestoDownloadable contentDownload the Free Post-Show Reflection Guide: Sent to your inbox when you subscribe to either newsletter (and added to the footer to each message if you're already subscribed).Get a booklet with six exercises to help you get reps in challenging scenes called "Exercises to Ruin You" More resourcesGet articles about improv: Join the ImprovUpdate newsletter(s) for general improv articles, and articles about neuroinclusive improv and comedy. Join either or both!Get downloads about improv & comedy: Find them here.Review the podcast: Rate and review this podcast on Podchaser.Chat about improv and comedy: Join the Improv Update Discord here.SupportLike this content and want it to continue? Support this podcast here with a one-time tip here: StereoForest.com/tipWe love our podcast host Capitvate.fm! Contact me anytime to ask me anything. You can support my shows by signing up with Captivate here: https://www.captivate.fm/signup?ref=yzjiytzAboutThis podcast was created, written, and is hosted by Jen deHaan. You can find her bio here.This episode was and edited and produced by StereoForest.com. a...
This episode provides general suggestions to comedians, especially neurodivergent ones like us autistic and ADHD actors in comedy and improv, to protect our minds while engaging in comedy and with others in the community. Find the video for this episode (has my face, not just captions): YouTube video (you can leave your input here!)Find the written article for this episode here: NeurodiversityImprov.com article (you can also leave your input here!)Checking in on yourself, in whatever spaces you’re participating in, is pretty good for mental health. These ten suggestions should be relevant beyond comedy communities, and will apply to people who aren't neurodivergent too. So even if you aren't autistic, for example, these should be relevant and hopefully somewhat useful.Some important notes about these suggestions for protecting your mind in comedy spaces:Some of these suggestions might contradict themselves. Or they might leave out some important points. This is confusing stuff, highly personal/unique, and in this case of course limited to one person’s experience and brain wiring! I heartily welcome you to add your own observations in the comments (anonymously from a throwaway account is fine, too!)Some of these suggestions might sound like I’m suggesting to “run away” from issues — but I am NOT advocating this and NOT suggesting we avoid addressing problems in comedy. Quite the opposite. These suggestions involve sticking within your community, but empowering yourself whilst doing so by forming new projects, outlets, or similar (as an option, or while addressing problematic stuff if it’s applicable). And as always: any suggestions are not universal!All ten sections below are SUGGESTIONS (from an autistic brain) even though many are not worded as such. These are worded like demands, because it’s what I ask of myself, what I use to check in. But they aren’t demands for YOU. Take a suggestion if you think it's helpful and applies to you. Ignore it if it doesn't apply to you.And as always, don’t replace this article or site for working with a professional. Also don’t use these resources for diagnosis of yourself or others. I’m not a mental health professional.You deserve compassion and respect no matter where you are with either your mental health or whether you are autistic, ADHD, or another neurotype!Ten Suggestions (as chapters!)Chapters:00:00 Intro01:00 About the podcast and episode02:22 Episode and topic overview - why I/we need these suggestions07:16 Suggestion One: Be Yourself and don't compromise on it.10:43 Suggestion Two: Take care of yourself first, for others13:53 Suggestion Three: Find your source of joy, but be open to pivoting16:17 Suggestion Four: Find the humans who value YOU19:33 Suggestion Five: Ignore the gatekeepers, and find your confidence22:31 Suggestion Six: Protect your value23:34 Suggestion Seven: Communicate openly and in good faith28:36 Suggestion Eight: Ask for or seek accommodations31:02 Suggestion Nine: Analyze where value comes from, especially if depressed33:33 Suggestion Ten: Value your mental health35:50 Conclusion and links42:42 Link to podcast (NeurodivergentComedy.com)Comedy is wildly strange, and a beast of its own (despite giving retro-silicon-valley vibes). At least the tiny corner I've witnessed and participated in. Let’s keep our neurodivergent minds safer here.Downloadable contentDownload the Free...
This marks one year of making podcast episodes! There are some changes happening next week, and here's what those changes are. And the things not changing (most of it isn't change). Yeah, STUFF IS HAPPENING!This kinda-but-not-really-an-episode talks about how this series started, and what I have planned with the name change for the podcast project.Downloadable contentDownload the Free Post-Show Reflection Guide: Sent to your inbox when you subscribe to either newsletter (and added to the footer to each message if you're already subscribed).Get a booklet with six exercises to help you get reps in challenging scenes called "Exercises to Ruin You" More resourcesGet articles about improv: Join the ImprovUpdate newsletter(s) for general improv articles, and articles about neuroinclusive improv and comedy. Join either or both!Get downloads about improv & comedy: Find them here.Review the podcast: Rate and review this podcast on Podchaser.Chat about improv and comedy: Join the Improv Update Discord here.SupportLike this content and want it to continue? Support this podcast here with a one-time tip here: StereoForest.com/tipWe love our podcast host Capitvate.fm! Contact me anytime to ask me anything. You can support my shows by signing up with Captivate here: https://www.captivate.fm/signup?ref=yzjiytzAboutThis podcast was created, written, and is hosted by Jen deHaan. You can find her bio here.This episode was and edited and produced by StereoForest.com. Contact StereoForest for information about producing YOUR podcast, website, and more at reasonable rates.Join the FREE StereoForest newsletter for all podcast and show updates at members.stereoforest.com.What does neuroinclusive mean? It means that you create a supportive environment inclusive and accommodating of all cognitive types and abilities to learn, write together, or perform. This, just like the word "neurodiversity", includes both neurodivergent and neurotypical individuals. Which is… you, since that covers everyone!This podcast was made in British Columbia, Canada by StereoForest Podcasts.NoteI mention surveys and written versions in earlier episodes. I am moving this content to ImprovUpdate.com on a new being-developed website. You can always send me any comments, thoughts, feedback, or contributions using the contact form on this page. This podcast uses the following third-party services...
Icebreakers. They're common in an improv class, at the top of a jam, or maybe when a team is just getting to know each other.Some people love them.Some people hate them.Some of us have a love/hate relationship depending on the day or the icebreaker in question.Many of the people who really dislike icebreakers are neurodivergent people, which is why such a seemingly simple thing is getting an episode.But many students, neurodivergent or not, need icebreakers to feel comfortable in the scenes that are in their near future when they're in a room with strangers (or near-strangers). They might not know they kinda need them, either. Icebreakers might be needed to make a room feel a bit safer, a bit more beneficial, a bit more comfortable.But some people, especially some of us neurodivergents with communication difficulties and differences and trauma history, feel uncomfortable doing them.So what now?Downloadable contentDownload the Free Post-Show Reflection Guide: Sent to your inbox when you subscribe to either newsletter (and added to the footer to each message if you're already subscribed).Get a booklet with six exercises to help you get reps in challenging scenes called "Exercises to Ruin You" More resourcesGet articles about improv: Join the ImprovUpdate newsletter(s) for general improv articles, and articles about neuroinclusive improv and comedy. Join either or both!Get downloads about improv & comedy: Find them here.Review the podcast: Rate and review this podcast on Podchaser.Chat about improv and comedy: Join the Improv Update Discord here.SupportLike this content and want it to continue? Support this podcast here with a one-time tip here: StereoForest.com/tipWe love our podcast host Capitvate.fm! Contact me anytime to ask me anything. You can support my shows by signing up with Captivate here: https://www.captivate.fm/signup?ref=yzjiytzAboutThis podcast was created, written, and is hosted by Jen deHaan. You can find her bio here.This episode was and edited and produced by StereoForest.com. Contact StereoForest for information about producing YOUR podcast, website, and more at reasonable rates.Join the FREE StereoForest newsletter for all podcast and show updates at members.stereoforest.com.What does neuroinclusive mean? It means that you create a supportive environment inclusive and accommodating of all cognitive types and abilities to learn, write together, or perform. This, just like the word "neurodiversity", includes both neurodivergent and neurotypical individuals. Which is…...
In part one of this episode series on emotions in improv, we looked at what alexithymia is, who experiences it and the variety of expression, and how it affects improv performers and the shared improv practice.This episode, part two, now explores some ideas of what students can do if they approach exercises with assigned emotions, and what teachers can do to make their classes and exercises more inclusive for those with alexithymia.I mention “emotion charts” (moods, feelings, etc) in the episode. This is what I mean (there are tons on the interwebs, here are just a couple): Example 1, Example 2. There are many out there that you can print out, or purchase a laminated poster of and so on.Downloadable contentDownload the Free Post-Show Reflection Guide: Sent to your inbox when you subscribe to either newsletter (and added to the footer to each message if you're already subscribed).Get a booklet with six exercises to help you get reps in challenging scenes called "Exercises to Ruin You" More resourcesGet articles about improv: Join the ImprovUpdate newsletter(s) for general improv articles, and articles about neuroinclusive improv and comedy. Join either or both!Get downloads about improv & comedy: Find them here.Review the podcast: Rate and review this podcast on Podchaser.Chat about improv and comedy: Join the Improv Update Discord here.SupportLike this content and want it to continue? Support this podcast here with a one-time tip here: StereoForest.com/tipWe love our podcast host Capitvate.fm! Contact me anytime to ask me anything. You can support my shows by signing up with Captivate here: https://www.captivate.fm/signup?ref=yzjiytzAboutThis podcast was created, written, and is hosted by Jen deHaan. You can find her bio here.This episode was and edited and produced by StereoForest.com. Contact StereoForest for information about producing YOUR podcast, website, and more at reasonable rates.Join the FREE StereoForest newsletter for all podcast and show updates at members.stereoforest.com.What does neuroinclusive mean? It means that you create a supportive environment inclusive and accommodating of all cognitive types and abilities to learn, write together, or perform. This, just like the word "neurodiversity", includes both neurodivergent and neurotypical individuals. Which is… you,...
Alexithymia involves how a person identifies and experiences emotions, so it has a lot to do with an improv practice.Part one of this two part episode series explores what alexithymia is, how it affects improv, and suggests some ways to practice improv if you experience it.Part two covers some ideas of what students can do if they approach exercises with assigned emotions, and what teachers can do to make their classes and exercises more inclusive for those with alexithymia.References from episodeI mentioned the “Notes” episode series in this episode, which might be helpful if you are initiating discussions with a coach or team about emotions in scenes and alexithymia.You can find those episodes here:* Getting & Giving Notes (part 1) - Ep #15* Getting Notes You Don't Understand (part 2) - Ep #16* Giving Notes to Students (part 3) - Ep #17Downloadable contentDownload the Free Post-Show Reflection Guide: Sent to your inbox when you subscribe to either newsletter (and added to the footer to each message if you're already subscribed).Get a booklet with six exercises to help you get reps in challenging scenes called "Exercises to Ruin You" More resourcesGet articles about improv: Join the ImprovUpdate newsletter(s) for general improv articles, and articles about neuroinclusive improv and comedy. Join either or both!Get downloads about improv & comedy: Find them here.Review the podcast: Rate and review this podcast on Podchaser.Chat about improv and comedy: Join the Improv Update Discord here.SupportLike this content and want it to continue? Support this podcast here with a one-time tip here: StereoForest.com/tipWe love our podcast host Capitvate.fm! Contact me anytime to ask me anything. You can support my shows by signing up with Captivate here: https://www.captivate.fm/signup?ref=yzjiytzAboutThis podcast was created, written, and is hosted by Jen deHaan. You can find her bio here.This episode was and edited and produced by StereoForest.com. Contact StereoForest for information about producing YOUR podcast, website, and more at reasonable rates.Join the FREE StereoForest newsletter for all podcast and show updates at a...
Notes (feedback) can be confusing for some student performers because of communication differences. This episode discusses what teachers can do to help improve and resolve some of the typical communication issues around questions and notes.Why can’t a student just ask for clarification? That can be loaded in some improv cultures (for now), and as such it can put a lot of burden on some students. Classes can be structured to make this a bit easier for everyone, while also still maintaining structure and accounting for time limitations.Downloadable contentDownload the Free Post-Show Reflection Guide: Sent to your inbox when you subscribe to either newsletter (and added to the footer to each message if you're already subscribed).Get a booklet with six exercises to help you get reps in challenging scenes called "Exercises to Ruin You" More resourcesGet articles about improv: Join the ImprovUpdate newsletter(s) for general improv articles, and articles about neuroinclusive improv and comedy. Join either or both!Get downloads about improv & comedy: Find them here.Review the podcast: Rate and review this podcast on Podchaser.Chat about improv and comedy: Join the Improv Update Discord here.SupportLike this content and want it to continue? Support this podcast here with a one-time tip here: StereoForest.com/tipWe love our podcast host Capitvate.fm! Contact me anytime to ask me anything. You can support my shows by signing up with Captivate here: https://www.captivate.fm/signup?ref=yzjiytzAboutThis podcast was created, written, and is hosted by Jen deHaan. You can find her bio here.This episode was and edited and produced by StereoForest.com. Contact StereoForest for information about producing YOUR podcast, website, and more at reasonable rates.Join the FREE StereoForest newsletter for all podcast and show updates at members.stereoforest.com.What does neuroinclusive mean? It means that you create a supportive environment inclusive and accommodating of all cognitive types and abilities to learn, write together, or perform. This, just like the word "neurodiversity", includes both neurodivergent and neurotypical individuals. Which is… you, since that covers everyone!This podcast was made in British Columbia, Canada by StereoForest Podcasts.NoteI mention surveys and written versions in earlier episodes. I am moving this content to ImprovUpdate.com on a new being-developed website. You can always send me any comments, thoughts, feedback, or contributions using a...