Episodi

  • Ep61 Playback Theatre and Meta Closeness - Erin Whalen

    Ep61 Playback Theatre and Meta Closeness - Erin Whalen
    Jan 13 2026
    In this episode of the Impro Pod podcast, Luke interviews Erin Whalen, a communication skills coach and playback theater practitioner. They discuss the connection between the closeness of emotions and the notes on the piano. As well as Erin’s dual involvement in playback theater and professional role-playing, particularly in medical contexts, to help people process grief. Erin elaborates on the impact of effective communication and the power of pausing during difficult conversations. They delve into the parallels between music and dialogue, emphasizing the subtleties of emotional content through tone and pace. Erin also shares personal stories, including the emotionally complex reaction to her sister's passing and a recent nature walk where she encountered a deer. The episode features musical improvisations by Luke, reflecting Erin’s experiences and themes of choice, surprise, and emotional complexity. Erin concludes by sharing contact information and a free resource on compassionate communication. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
    Mostra di più Mostra meno
    34 min
  • Ep60 Brisbane betrayal and Importance of Improv - Steven Morgan

    Ep60 Brisbane betrayal and Importance of Improv - Steven Morgan
    Dec 4 2025
    "Music can transcend things in a way that words and action cannot" Holland based comedian, improviser and musician Steven Morgan tells a story about waking up to reality in Brisbane Australia, and the blurred boundaries between perception and reality. They discuss Steven's absurdist comedy style, his background in music, and his previous band Neon Highwire. They talk about the importance of improvisation in both comedy and music, and how collaborative efforts and artificial limitations can enhance creativity. Link to Steven's website Steven's instagram: @ma0sm Timestamps: Introduction & Steven’s Move to the Netherlands (00:00:05) Steven discusses moving from the UK to the Netherlands and his impressions of living there. Steven’s Comedy and Improv Style (00:00:36) Steven describes his approach to standup, improv, and character-driven, self-deprecating comedy. Musical Background & Neon Highwire (00:01:00) Steven shares his musical roots, band experiences, and the collaborative nature of his songwriting. Neon Highwire & Club Performances (00:01:35) Steven talks about Neon Highwire’s style, club gigs in London, and the late-night performance lifestyle. Clip: Neon Highwire’s “Akira” (00:02:21) A short excerpt from Neon Highwire’s track “Akira” is played. Improvised Music Reaction: Dizziness & Musical Tension (00:03:37) Steven reacts to improvised music, describing feelings of dizziness and the interplay of musical tension. Discussion: Tension, Release, and Unresolved Melodies (00:04:37) They discuss musical tension, unresolved melodies, and their psychological effects, referencing “Baby Shark” and notification sounds. Storytelling: Brisbane, the Waving Man, and Misperception (00:06:32) Steven recounts his experience in Brisbane, misinterpreting a waving man’s intentions, and the emotional impact of the realization. Musical Interpretation of the Story (00:11:55) Steven reacts to Luke’s improvised soundtrack, discussing how the music captured the story’s emotions and his expectations. Exploring Musical Optimism & Naivety (00:12:36) They analyze how musical choices (sustain pedal, scales) affect the sense of optimism and naivety in the story’s soundtrack. Second Musical Take & Emotional Mapping (00:14:03) Steven reflects on the improved musical take, mapping the music to the story’s emotional journey. Reflections on Improvisation & Music’s Power (00:15:06) Steven shares insights on improvisation, the emotional power of music, and how it transcends words. Closing Remarks (00:15:57) The episode concludes with thanks and an invitation to listen to future episodes. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
    Mostra di più Mostra meno
    19 min
  • Ep59 Witchcraft, manifestation and a shruti box - Swailes

    Ep59 Witchcraft, manifestation and a shruti box - Swailes
    Nov 18 2025
    Luke talks to Witch, podcaster and security officer Swailes about her whitchcraft podcast and the power of manifestation. She tells a great story about being careful what you wish for, that Luke improvises a soundtrack to with help of a shruti box instrument. Swaile's podcast: The Bell Witch podcast Her instagram: @the_bell_witch_podcast Timestamps: Introduction to Swailes and the Bell Witch Podcast (00:00:06) Swailes introduces herself and describes the focus and format of the Bell Witch Podcast. Swailes’s Journey into Witchcraft (00:00:56) Swailes shares her personal journey into witchcraft, starting after having her first child. Superstition and Everyday Magic (00:01:54) Discussion about superstition, daily magical practices, and the hidden magic in common traditions. The Magic of Blowing Out Birthday Candles (00:02:42) Explains the witchcraft significance of blowing out birthday candles as a ritual spell. Location and Impro Pod Map Introduction (00:03:24) Host mentions Swailes’s location and introduces the podcast’s story map project. Musical Improvisation and Ocean Imagery (00:04:42) Swailes describes the imagery and emotions evoked by an improvised piece of music. Layers, Depth, and Willingness to Discover (00:05:05) Exploration of the metaphor of ocean layers and the need for openness in discovery. Storytelling and Introduction to Sigil Magic (00:06:41) Swailes begins telling the story of discovering sigil magic and explains what a sigil is. Moon Circle and Baking Sigil Bread (00:06:53) Swailes recounts her first experience creating a sigil during a moon circle in York, involving bread baking. Letting Go and the Power of Ritual (00:08:33) Reflection on the personal impact of the sigil ritual and the theme of letting go. Musical Interpretation of Letting Go (00:10:06) Discussion of the improvised music representing the process of letting go. Music and Witchcraft Connection (00:11:14) Swailes discusses her relationship with music and its role in her magical practice. Shruti Box and Ritual Instruments (00:11:23) Swailes describes her shruti box and plans to incorporate it into rituals. Cautionary Tale: Manifesting Money and Unintended Consequences (00:12:34) Swailes shares a story about manifesting money, her husband’s redundancy, and the importance of being specific in magic. Reversing the Spell and Resolution (00:14:01) Describes efforts to reverse the spell and the eventual positive outcome. Be Careful What You Wish For (00:16:07) Swailes reflects on the lesson of being precise and ethical in manifestation. Musical Interpretation of the Cautionary Tale (00:17:21) Host creates a musical piece to accompany the story, focusing on the emotional journey. Reflections on the Podcast Experience (00:20:40) Swailes shares her thoughts on the unique experience of having her stories interpreted musically. Where to Find the Bell Witch Podcast (00:21:13) Swailes provides information on where listeners can find her podcast and her openness to collaborations. Latest Episode Featuring Shannon Pearl (00:21:44) Swailes describes her latest episode with singer Shannon Pearl and the tradition of kulning. Mapping Podcast Stories and Locations (00:22:27) Host and Swailes discuss the map project and the locations of the stories shared. Outro and Farewell (00:23:19) Closing remarks and thanks from both host and guest. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
    Mostra di più Mostra meno
    26 min
  • Ep58 Near death Experience & an unexpected game of poker - Peter Gunn

    Ep58 Near death Experience & an unexpected game of poker - Peter Gunn
    Nov 18 2025
    Poet, author, body builder and Ex US air force veteran, Peter Gunn, discusses his near death experience when he was 7 years old. As well as a game of poker with an unexpected player. Luke improvises a soundtrack to Peter's NDA and tries to get a sense accession , as well the vibe of Atlantic City where the poker game takes place. Peter also discusses his self-taught pursuit of music, having formed a band and produced an album inspired by the nostalgic sounds of the 80s. Peter's Band, The Angelics on Spotify Peter's website Peter's Tiktok See this episode on the Impropod map Timestamps: Introduction and Guest Welcome (00:00:06) Luke introduces Peter Gunn, listing his background and welcoming him to the podcast. Bodybuilding Journey (00:00:24) Peter discusses his transformation from being overweight to becoming a bodybuilder and his passion for fitness. Bodybuilding Competitions (00:00:53) Peter talks about competing in bodybuilding and how height affects stage presence. US Air Force Career (00:01:04) Peter describes his 20 years as an aircraft electrician in the US Air Force, traveling the world and learning discipline. Music and Album Creation (00:01:51) Peter explains how he started making music, forming a band online, and creating an 80s-style album. Nostalgia and 80s Sound (00:03:00) Peter shares the band's goal to revive authentic 80s music and evoke nostalgia. Improvised Music Reflection (00:03:41) Luke plays improvised music; Peter describes the imagery and emotions it evokes. Storytelling with Music: NDE Introduction (00:05:02) Luke asks Peter to tell a story for musical improvisation; Peter chooses his near-death experience (NDE). Near-Death Experience Details (00:05:27) Peter recounts his NDE at age seven, describing the journey, meeting angels, and being sent back. Spirituality and Creative Inspiration (00:06:19) Peter discusses how the NDE influenced his spirituality and music, including receiving creative "downloads." Album Track Example: Lilith (00:07:35) Peter explains the meaning behind the track "Lilith," using the demon as a metaphor for temptation. Encounter with a Succubus (00:08:26) Peter recounts a supernatural experience with a succubus during his Air Force service. Aftermath of NDE and Paranormal Experiences (00:08:43) Peter describes feeling disoriented after his NDE and experiencing further paranormal events. Medical Confirmation and Time Perception (00:09:06) Peter confirms he was clinically dead for about three hours and discusses altered time perception during the NDE. Life Review During NDE (00:09:53) Peter recalls the brief life review he experienced as a child during his NDE. Musical Improvisation: NDE Soundtrack (00:10:09) Luke improvises a musical piece based on Peter's NDE; Peter gives feedback on the music. Heavenly Riffs and Musical Inspiration (00:15:04) Peter describes his approach to creating "heavenly" music and references ancient texts about music and angels. Atlantic City Story: Meeting James Gandolfini (00:16:17) Peter tells a story about being upgraded to a VIP suite and playing poker with James Gandolfini while on Air Force duty. Atlantic City Vibes and Musical Interpretation (00:17:45) Peter describes the high-energy atmosphere of Atlantic City; Luke improvises music to match. Podcast Reflections and Connection (00:19:12) Peter reflects on the podcast, emphasizing human connection and the uplifting power of music. Music, Angels, and Spiritual Communication (00:19:44) Peter discusses the idea that angels communicate through music and the spiritual nature of musical expression. Conclusion and Farewell (00:20:22) Luke and Peter wrap up the episode and thank listeners. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
    Mostra di più Mostra meno
    23 min
  • Ep57 Veteran voice radio and the Call of Duty - Donald Dunn

    Ep57 Veteran voice radio and the Call of Duty - Donald Dunn
    Nov 18 2025
    US military veteran and podcast host Donald Dunn talks about the importance of music in the military, while serving and afterwords dealing with PTSD. Luke improvises a soundtrack to the complexities of returning to family life. They explore how improvised music can be beneficial in the recovery process after serving in the military. Donald also tells a ridiculous story involving a popular video game. Donald's podcast: Spirt and stories with Donald Dunn Veteran Voice radio: veteranvoiceradio.com VVR instagram: @veteranvoiceradio Timestamps Donald’s Background (00:00:05) Donald introduces himself, his podcasts, and the mission to document veterans’ stories and support their transition into music. Veteran Voice Radio and Music Therapy (00:01:04) Donald explains how the radio station helps veterans and their families enter music, focusing on marketing and therapeutic programs. Improvised Music in Healing (00:02:23) Discussion on how improvised music and songwriting help veterans process experiences and trauma. Musical Impressions Exercise (00:03:01) Host plays improvised music; Donald shares the story and emotions the music evokes, likening it to a movie scene. Storytelling and Music in Deployment (00:05:36) Donald recounts soldiers unwinding with music during deployment, fostering camaraderie and relaxation. Musical Reflection on Camaraderie (00:08:45) Host improvises music to reflect camaraderie; Donald discusses the upbeat nature of these jam sessions. Music Preferences and Lifting Spirits (00:09:32) Donald shares the types of music that helped him during tough times, especially upbeat rock and covers by fellow soldiers. Funny Military Story: Call of Duty (00:10:16) Donald tells a humorous story about a new recruit who joined the military thinking it would be like the video game Call of Duty. Separation and Reunion: Life as a Military Family (00:11:38) Donald describes marrying young, being stationed in Korea, and the emotional challenges of family separation and reunion. Experiences in Korea and the DMZ (00:13:08) Donald details his role as a mechanic in Korea, the psychological tension at the DMZ, and the symbolic flag competitions. Musical Exploration of Distance and Reunion (00:14:15) Host improvises music to capture the emotions of separation, anticipation, and reunion; Donald reflects on the ongoing adjustment. Reintegration and Identity Loss After Service (00:20:03) Donald discusses the difficulty of leaving the military, losing his identity, and struggling with PTSD and civilian life. Seeking Help and PTSD Therapy (00:21:36) Donald describes reaching a breaking point, seeking therapy, and finding a psychologist experienced with military trauma. Music as Therapy and New Insights (00:23:10) Donald realizes the therapeutic power of instrumental music and considers incorporating improvisation into his nonprofit’s programs. Podcast Promotion and Closing (00:24:34) Donald shares where to find his podcast and nonprofit, and the episode concludes with thanks and closing remarks. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
    Mostra di più Mostra meno
    28 min
  • Ep56 Checkpoint danger, U2 and a pipe organ - Pete A Turner

    Ep56 Checkpoint danger, U2 and a pipe organ - Pete A Turner
    Nov 18 2025
    Producer, podcaster and former spy Pete A Turner tells a story about a potentially deadly checkpoint crossing in Iraq. He talks about his love for music, the pipe organ, and the intersection of spying and podcasting skills. They discuss his podcast, with over 2000 episodes where he's interviewed many acclaimed musicians and diverse guests. Pete's podcast: https://www.youtube.com/peteaturner https://www.breakitdownshow.com/ Follow impropod on instagram: @impropodpodcast Timestamps (00:00:05) Pete Turner introduces himself, his podcasting career, and his background as a former spy. Music as Inspiration (00:01:02) Pete discusses his love for music and its influence on his life. Comparing Spying and Producing (00:01:11) Pete explains similarities between his spy work and producing/podcasting. Spying Methods and Podcasting Parallels (00:01:38) Pete describes his approach to intelligence gathering and how it relates to podcast interviews. Improvised Music Exercise Introduction (00:02:03) Host introduces an improvised music exercise for Pete to reflect on. Music Reflection and Imagery (00:03:28) Pete shares his thoughts and imagery evoked by the improvised music. Discussion of Musical Structure (00:03:55) Conversation about the musical elements and transitions in the improvisation. Storytelling Exercise Introduction (00:04:34) Host asks Pete to tell a story for a musical storytelling exercise. Checkpoint Story in Iraq (00:04:48) Pete recounts a tense and dangerous checkpoint encounter in Iraq. Negotiation and Survival Tension (00:06:06) Pete details the life-or-death tension and the role of negotiation at the checkpoint. Musical Interpretation of Tension (00:07:18) Host discusses how to musically represent the tension and danger of Pete’s story. Musical Suggestions for Tension (00:09:33) Pete suggests musical techniques to convey the edge and discomfort of the experience. Second Musical Take and Feedback (00:13:10) Pete reacts to the second musical interpretation and discusses its emotional impact. Relationship with Music During Spy Days (00:14:46) Pete explains how music, especially lyrics, helped him cope with stress during dangerous missions. Family Musical Background (00:16:03) Pete shares stories about his father’s musical influence and their home organ. Favorite Songs and Lyrics (00:17:11) Pete discusses the significance of U2’s music and lyrics during his time as a spy. Host’s Connection to Bono’s Brother (00:17:50) Host reveals a personal connection to Bono’s brother, leading to a discussion of family and music. Podcast Reflection and Impact (00:18:28) Pete reflects on the value of discussing music deeply and its effect on his mood. About The Break It Down Show (00:19:03) Pete describes his podcast’s format, lack of a specific theme, and approach to guests. Podcast Platform and Notable Guests (00:20:12) Pete shares where to find his podcast and mentions some high-profile guests. Invitation and Closing Remarks (00:21:11) Host and Pete discuss a future collaboration, recap the episode, and close the show. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
    Mostra di più Mostra meno
    25 min
  • Ep55 Magic Johnson, Khabib Nurmagomedov and the power of story telling - Rod Berger

    Ep55 Magic Johnson, Khabib Nurmagomedov and the power of story telling - Rod Berger
    Nov 18 2025
    Author and host, Rod Berger, has hosted over 4000 interviews including the late Pope, NBA great Magic Johnson and the Crown Princess of Sweden. He's documented stories on behalf of WaterAid in refugee camps across Africa. They discuss the power of storytelling, Rod recounts an interview with Khabib Nurmagomedov who is the longest-reigning UFC Lightweight Champion and his longing for a simple life selling vegetables. Rod also reflects on his emotional connection to sports, particularly his childhood heartbreak over the Detroit Pistons' loss in the 1988 NBA Finals. Rod's book: The Narrative Edge: Authentic Storytelling that Meets the Moment Rod's website: https://www.drrodberger.com/ Rod's instagram: @drrodberger Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
    Mostra di più Mostra meno
    33 min
  • Ep54 The Power of music, maths and a Bridge Over Troubled Water - Glenn Berger

    Ep54 The Power of music, maths and a Bridge Over Troubled Water - Glenn Berger
    Nov 18 2025
    Dr. Glenn Berger. is a psychotherapist and coach who's worked for over twenty-five years. Before that, he was in the music business, In the Studio with Dylan, Sinatra, Jagger and More. They discuss the mathematics of music, why you think and feel certina emotions or imagine things when listening to music. Glenn tells some great stories about how he made the decision to study psychotherapy and his connection to the song Bridge Over Troubled Water. All with a unique soundtrack. Glenn Berger's online self-cultivation course: https://www.skool.com/heartfinders/about Glenn Berger's Website Instagram: @glennsbergerphd Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
    Mostra di più Mostra meno
    39 min