The Framework

Observing

The foundation of every interaction. We train your team to notice what's actually happening — body language, tone, group dynamics — instead of defaulting to assumptions. Better observation means better decisions.

Connecting

Building on what others offer instead of competing with it. "Yes, And" isn't just a catchphrase — it's a discipline. We practice building on ideas constructively, creating psychological safety, and finding common ground.

Responding

Acting with confidence when certainty is impossible. We build your team's capacity to make decisions, adapt on the fly, and support each other under pressure — not by rehearsing scripts, but by building genuine adaptability.

Workshop participants engaged in a collaborative exercise around a table

What Makes Us Different

This isn't what you think

When people hear 'improv,' they picture comedy clubs and awkward audience participation. What we do is fundamentally different. Our exercises are designed to feel like collaborative problem-solving — because that's exactly what they are. No scripts. No performing. No spotlight. Just real practice for real work situations.

Skills Your Team Develops

Each skill is practiced in context, not lectured about. Your team leaves with tools they use Monday morning.

Active Listening

Hear what's actually being said, not just waiting for your turn to talk. Better listening means fewer misunderstandings and faster alignment.

Adaptability

Respond to change with composure instead of resistance. Build comfort with ambiguity and confidence in uncertain situations.

Trust Building

Create psychological safety through consistent, supportive interactions. Trust is built in small moments, and we practice those moments.

Creative Problem-Solving

Break habitual thinking patterns. 'Yes, And' opens possibilities that 'Yes, But' shuts down. Innovation starts with acceptance.

Resilience Under Pressure

Stay present and effective when things don't go as planned. Composure is a skill, and it can be practiced.

Supportive Communication

Make your colleagues look good. When everyone's focused on supporting each other, the whole team performs better.

Research-Backed

The science supports what we've seen for 30 years

Research from institutions like Harvard, Stanford, and MIT confirms what our clients experience: experiential learning builds stronger neural pathways than passive instruction. Applied improv specifically has been shown to improve creative thinking, reduce anxiety in communication, and increase team psychological safety.

Download the Research Guide

CSz Portland facilitating a workshop at a corporate venue

Frequently Asked Questions

Will my team have to perform?

No. Our exercises are group-based and collaborative. No one is put in the spotlight, and there's no audience. Think problem-solving in small groups, not stand-up comedy.

What about introverts?

Improv rewards listening and observation — skills where introverts often excel. Our exercises are designed so every personality type can participate at their comfort level. Skeptics and introverts regularly report being the most surprised by how much they enjoy and benefit from the experience.

Is this like a trust fall?

Not at all. Trust falls are a one-moment activity. We build real communication skills — listening, adapting, supporting — that your team uses in meetings, presentations, and daily interactions. The trust we build comes from practicing real skills together, not from a single dramatic gesture.

How is this different from a team outing?

Team outings are fun but forgettable. Our workshops build professional development skills your team uses every day. The difference is between a memorable afternoon and a lasting change in how people work together.

What if people are skeptical?

We win skeptics in the first two minutes. Our exercises are designed to feel like collaborative problem-solving, not 'touchy-feely' activities. By the end, the biggest skeptics are usually the biggest advocates.

Can you accommodate different abilities?

Yes. All exercises can be adapted for participants with different physical abilities, communication styles, and comfort levels. We design for inclusion from the start.

Do you come to us?

Yes. We train on-site at your location, at our Portland studio, or via Zoom. Most clients prefer on-site delivery because it reduces logistics for their team.

A method refined over 30 years and 800 organizations