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Our Awesome 2023 AIN Global Conference PresentersWe are excited to announce the lineup of presenters and speakers for the 2023 AIN Global Conference in Vancouver, Canada! This year's conference will feature a diverse group of experts from around the world who are passionate about using applied improvisation to make a difference. We are confident that this year's conference will be a valuable learning experience for everyone who attends. Read their bios, check out their headshots, and maybe follow our presenters on social media! Presenters, if you do not see yourself or need to make a correction/addition to your spot, please email [email protected] to let us know. Thank you for making this conference possible! Interested in knowing more about a presenter's session?
Our Conference Presenters:
Jessica Breitenfeld
Session: Plenary - Business Building: The Good, The Bad, and The ReimAgINing Biography: I am the keeper of the Gen Z talent - I make 'em stay, and more importantly, I make 'em laugh! Who am I, you ask? I'm the Global Speaker & Team Trainer extraordinaire, the one who zips and zaps through the corporate world with a mission to make your teams thrive through these fantabulous LAB© Experiences. Now hold onto your hats, folks, 'cause I was awarded Top Female Speaker in Western Europe in 2022 and managed to nab the spot of Runner Up at the Professional Speakers Association of UK (PSA) Speaker Factor London in 2021. Oh, what a wild ride! But wait, there's more! As a Motivational Humorist, I blend chuckles and inspiration to bring teams together in a cosmic explosion of #CanDo Culture. Got a Tedx event? I'm your host! Wanna change the world? Let's do it together! Need some therapy? Well, I'm a Gestalt Psychotherapy expert too! My friends, I am the 80/20 Human, master of thriving teams, and I have a special power - I can make you 1% better at everything! That's right, my motivational speech will tickle your funny bone and get you thinking out of the box. But beware, PowerPoint presentations are so passé - it's all about the laughter and audience participation, baby! (Click here to return to the top of the page) Melissa Dinwiddie
Session: Plenary - Business Building: The Good, The Bad, and The ReimAgINing Biography: Melissa Dinwiddie is a strategic thinking partner who uses play to help people-first and change-making organizations unleash creativity, and strengthen connection, communication, collaboration, and clarity, so their impact matches their smarts. Her background as a professional artist, trained improviser, and jazz singer help her design and facilitate creative, interactive, playful experiences that attendees rave about because they acquire new skills and behaviors and build connections while having fun. Melissa is the founder of Creative Sandbox Solutions™, and the author of The Creative Sandbox Way™: Your Path to a Full-Color Life, an interactive playbook that countless readers have sworn freed them from creative block virtually overnight. Melissa has degrees from UC Berkeley and the University of Birmingham, England, and lives in Silicon Valley with her husband and their two rambunctious cats. (Click here to return to the top of the page) Kat Koppett
Sessions: Plenary - Business Building: The Good, The Bad, and The ReimAgINing Workshop - Our Value Proposition in Action: Focusing the "Why" in Appl"Y" Biography: Kat Koppett is the Eponymous Founder of "Koppett", a consultancy specializing in the use of improv and storytelling techniques to enhance individual and group performance. She is the author of Training to Imagine: Practical Improvisational Theatre Techniques to Enhance Creativity, Teamwork, Leadership and Learning, and a contributor to The Applied Improvisation Mindset ed. Theresa Robbins Dudeck and Caitlin McClure. She has worked with diverse clients including Meta, Apple, Prezi, PwC, NASA, and the Clinton Global Initiative. In addition, Kat is the co-director and a performing member of the Mopco Improv Theatre. She is a founding member and the current vice-president of AIN. Website/Social Media: Koppett./Mopco www.koppett.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/koppett/ (Click here to return to the top of the page) Rachel Bellack
Session: Applied Improvisation for Coaches and Leaders: Blending Skills for Greater Impact Biography: Rachel Bellack MCC is a leadership coach and the founder and Director of Coaching for Yes, And Coaching Institute - an ICF Certified Training Partner that specializes in using Applied Improvisation, Positive Psychology and other innovative modalities to train coaches and leaders. Rachel was an instructor at the Second City Detroit training center and, in addition to her role at Yes, And is the Executive Director at Michigan Actors Studio and a Producer of ComedySportz Detroit. In 2018 she was invited to join the Forbes Coaches Council and contributes to their Leadership Channel. Currently, she is on faculty at the Center for Creative Leadership where she facilitates experiential and immersive programs for leaders worldwide. Website/Social Media: Yes, And Coaching Institute www.yesandcoachinginstitute.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachelbellack (Click here to return to the top of the page) Bobbi Block
Sessions: AINx Talk - Demonstrating the value of applied improvisation for difficult conversations about social challenges Biography: Bobbi Block is a Facilitator, Professor and Coach. Bobbi transforms communication behaviors to improve connection, engagement, trust and collaboration. Bobbi is a Facilitator/Instructional Designer with The Ariel Group, Work.Life.Leader, and Wharton Executive Education. She has been the Director of Applied Improvisation for CSZ Philadelphia for 25 years. Bobbi founded acclaimed improvisational theater company Tongue & Groove, and is an Adjunct Professor at Temple and Drexel Universities. Website/Social Media: http://www.bobbiblock.com/ (Click here to return to the top of the page) Ingrid Broussillon
Session: AIN't You Tired Being Speechless in Front of Racism? Biography: Ingrid, a Guadeloupean, is a true ball of energy who landed in Vancouver five years ago willing to improve her oral English. She quickly realized that traditional language courses were not for her and created Griottes Polyglottes, a super cool business that helps practice French and English through improv. She is an energetic and ambitious entrepreneur who has won several awards for her company, confirming her idea. Ingrid doesn't just use improv for language, she also uses it to address serious topics such as boosting confidence in expressing oneself in a second language, fighting against racism, and cultural inclusion in a playful format. Through Griottes Polyglottes, she: - Facilitates and accelerates the integration of immigrants by helping them develop their oral confidence in French or English. - Improves team cohesion by breaking down linguistic and cultural barriers within multicultural teams. - Equips young people to combat racism in schools. When she's not leading workshops, she gets lost in the mountains of BC to recharge. Ingrid is a hilarious, inspiring, and totally badass entrepreneur who proves that you can learn while having fun and making a difference in the world. Website/Social Media: https://www.griottespolyglottes.com (Click here to return to the top of the page) Carrie Caudle
Session: Make Room to Spark Joy Biography: I am an applied improvisation facilitator and coach who believes in the power of play to transform. Working with teachers, administrators, business executives, engineers, and many more...my passion for building strong teams, increasing risk-taking, and bringing creativity into the workplace has supported individual and group change on many levels. I also founded RagTag Improv, performing in San Francisco. Website/Social Media: Carrie Caudle Consulting: www.carriecaudle.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/carriecaudle/ (Click here to return to the top of the page) Tracy Chang
Session: AINx Talk - Face Off: AI to AI in Higher Education Biography: Dr. Tracy F. H. Chang is an Associate Professor and Associate Dean of DEI at Rutgers School of Management and Labor Relations. She received her Ph.D. in Sociology from the University of Iowa and M.B.A. from New York University. She incorporates Applied Improv in teaching Organizational Behavior and Leadership undergraduate courses and building community among faculty and staff as part of DEI efforts. Website/Social Media: Rutgers University - https://smlr.rutgers.edu/faculty-staff/tracy-f-h-chang (Click here to return to the top of the page)
Robert Cochrane
Session: The Prison of the Mind and The Improvisation Escape Biography: Dr. Robert Cochrane is a graduate of UNLV's Integrated Health Sciences department. He's researching the effect of improvisation and storytelling on Parkinson’s disease. He received grants from the Parkinson's Foundation and support from the Davis Phinney Foundation along the way. He is a popular, unique and high energy Keynote speaker, bringing joy, optimism and practical tools for people in the PD community to thrive today. He has a background in filmmaking, with the Artisan Entertainment release, The Playaz Court, and two Stephen King-based short films among his credits. His father, Dan, was diagnosed with PD in 2001, which shifted Robert’s artistic lens to health. He made his first documentary, the award-winning Boys of Summer in 2004. There are two follow up films in the series with the fourth film coming in 2023. He lives in Walnut Creek, CA with his beautiful wife, two crazy kids, and an old, cranky Cockapoo. Website/Social Media: www.yesandexercise.org https://www.linkedin.com/in/robertcochrane1/ (Click here to return to the top of the page) Vicki Crooks
Session: Reimagining the STEM Trajectory: Applied Improvisation and Science Biography: Vicki Crooks is a Communication professor from Klamath Falls, Oregon. Vicki has worked both within and outside of academia and enjoys working with students, faculty, and other stakeholders to bridge gaps between theory, research, and practical implementation. Vicki says “I love AIN and have felt connected to the organization for several years. Applied improvisation is a foundational element in my pedagogy." (Click here to return to the top of the page) Brent Darnell
Session: The Business of Applied Improv Biography: Brent Darnell is a playwright, author, actor, improviser, and Dramatists Guild member. He is also a pioneer in bringing emotional intelligence to the construction industry and has taught people skills to technical people at 100 different companies in 20 different countries. He also teaches these skills at Auburn, Penn State, Virginia Tech, and the University of Cincinnati. He has published eight books on emotional intelligence and people skills for technical people. Website/Social Media: brentdarnell.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/brentdarnell/ (Click here to return to the top of the page) Bob Dassie
Session: Building Us: Improvising Our Way Home Biography: Bob Dassie is a performer, trainer, and director. He was a long-time instructor at ImprovOlympic in Chicago and Los Angeles. Bob has performed with the groups "Trio", "Quartet", "Baby Wants Candy", and "Weirdass" among others. He has also trained a variety of business and university staff across the globe on how to apply improvisation to their own work. (Click here to return to the top of the page) Madeleine De Little
Session: Learning Journey #5 - Applied Improv and Psychotherapy Biography: I’m retired from working for two decades as a school counsellor at the Langley School of Fine Arts. My book, ‘Neuroscience and Satir in the Sandtray’, NSST, and my work have been acknowledged by Dr Allan Schore and other leaders in the field of neuroscience. My mentor, Virginia Satir, was a pioneer of experiential therapy. I have an NSST private practice with 10 associates in Fort Langley. I train practitioners in NSST and I’m starting to train trainers. In both, I use a transformative pedagogy model. I've trained in BC, in Thailand, in Singapore, in the Czech Republic and in the People’s Republic of China with large and small groups over the last 15 years. I have been acknowledged by the CCPA with the Canadian Counselling Practitioner Award for 2021. My partner, Jim Edmondson, who also uses NSST in his work, has trained with David Diamond. (Click here to return to the top of the page) Daniel De Miguel
Session: Learning Journey #3 - Automatic Drawing, Urban Sketching and Other Art Improving Tools Biography: Daniel de Miguel is a computer engineer, writer, actor and an improviser with more than 10 years of experience who really likes to draw. Fascinated by this concept of applied improvisation, he created this learning journey as an experiment to play and discover his inner child who never left him. (Click here to return to the top of the page) Ted DesMaisons
Workshop - Improv and Mindfulness Learning Lab Biography: Ted DesMaisons has studied, performed, and taught improvisation internationally, including with Patricia Ryan Madson, the Stanford Improvisors, and BATS Improv of San Francisco. He is a trained Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) instructor and trained extensively with renowned voice and presence coach, Patsy Rodenburg. He co-hosts the Monster Baby Podcast and authored the groundbreaking Playful Mindfulness. He received an MBA from Stanford and an MTh from Harvard and is the author of the book, Playful Mindfulness: A Joyful Journey to Everyday Confidence, Calm, and Connection. Website/Social Media: ANIMA Learning/Playful Mindfulness www.playfulmindfulness.com (Click here to return to the top of the page) Jenny Drescher
Session: The Tactical Scale: Expanding Your AI Business with Strategic Collaborations Biography: Jenny Drescher is an invigorating speaker and coach with a bold, funny style. An accomplished performance Improviser, instructional designer, and candid-yet-kind facilitator, she draws out courage and playfulness in her audiences and students. She delights in guiding people to break free of patterns that hold them back and liberate the powerful leader within. Jenny has 15+ years of executive coaching and facilitation experience in workplaces. Her background includes driving a forklift, inside and outside sales, customer service and account management. She is bilingual (English/German) and geeks out on Applied Improvisation, Emotional Intelligence, and brain science. She’s committed to helping humans tap into what they are already doing well, so that they can amplify it and make it even better. Website/Social Media: https://www.theboldercompany.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/bolderjenny/ (Click here to return to the top of the page) Theresa Dudeck
Biography: Theresa is a theatre practitioner and recent U.S. Fulbright Scholar (Brazil) with expertise in applied improvisation. She is considered one of the foremost teachers of Keith Johnstone's Impro System and author of the critically acclaimed Keith Johnstone: A Critical Biography (Bloomsbury 2013). She is co-editor of Applied Improvisation: Leading, Collaborating, and Creating Beyond the Theatre (Methuen Drama 2018) and The Applied Improvisation Mindset: Tools for Transforming Organizations and Communities (Methuen Drama 2021). Theresa is also the co-founder/co-director of one of the only international symposiums focused on theatrical improvisation, the Global Improvisation Initiative (GII). Theresa received her PhD in Theatre from the University of Oregon, her M.A. from California State University at Northridge, and her B.A. from University of Alabama at Birmingham. Website/Social Media: https://www.theimprofessor.com (Click here to return to the top of the page) Jim EdmondsonSession: Learning Journey #5 - Applied Improv and Psychotherapy (Click here to return to the top of the page) Bess Eiermann
Session: Your Brain on Improv - How the Arts and Improv Transform Us Biography: Bess Eiermann, PhD, R-DMT, is a registered dance/movement therapist and holds a doctorate in Expressive Arts from the European Graduate School in Switzerland. She also is a certified Applied Improvisation Facilitator. Her professional focus is on combining the tenets of improv with the creative process. She teaches Expressive Arts with an emphasis on playful mindfulness and focuses on using improv and the arts to develop community. (Click here to return to the top of the page) Ellen Feldman Ornato
Session: The Tactical Scale: Expanding Your AI Business with Strategic Collaborations Biography: Ellen Feldman Ornato has a diverse work background that includes City Planning, Economic Development, and Marketing and Public Relations for a 42-store retailer. She is an entrepreneur at heart and owned a learning company and a marketing & public relations agency prior to launching Bolder Company with Jenny Drescher in 2014. Ellen has extensive experience working in manufacturing, construction, and related fields, building essential supervisory and leadership skills at all business levels. She is bilingual (English/Spanish) and blends her knowledge of Unconscious Bias, DiSC®, Emotional Intelligence with Applied Improvisation and experiential methods that make learning stick. Ellen is also a gifted storyteller who performs regularly at regional storytelling events. Website/Social Media: https://www.theboldercompany.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/ellen-feldman-ornato/ (Click here to return to the top of the page) Christian Felix
Session: Starting at Home: Building Belonging and Catalyzing Becoming Biography: An Associate Partner at Performance of a Lifetime, Christian Felix is responsible for leading several of our global client accounts, ensuring our client engagement teams deliver exceptional results (and have fun in the process). As a member of the POAL leadership team, Christian is a key contributor to our ongoing work to innovate and advance our practice. Website/Social Media: Performance of a Lifetime / performanceofalifetime.com Christian Felix, Associate Partner, https://www.linkedin.com/in/christian-felix-a61b674b/ (Click here to return to the top of the page) Sarah Fisk
Session: Hybrid is the WORST Format-Unless You Do It Right: A Case Study and Fun Hands-on Experience Biography: Sarah Fisk, PhD is an organization development consultant specializing in design and facilitation of multi-stakeholder group processes and collaborative systems change. Since 1992, her caseload has included a variety of public service organizations, consulting firms, and small and large businesses. Sarah is co-author of Facilitator’s Guide to Participatory Decision-Making, (Jossey-Bass, 3rd edition 2014). She has taught the facilitation of collaboration to thousands of people and consulted on participatory initiatives in England, Germany, The Netherlands, Spain, France, The Philippines, Kenya, Fiji, and throughout the United States and Canada. She has served as adjunct professor at CIIS and has been a featured speaker at many professional conferences, including International Association of Facilitators, Organization Development Network, and the Applied Improvisation Network. Sarah holds a PhD in Clinical Psychology. Sarah is the founder of Leading Collaboration where she is Principal Consultant. In addition, she is a Senior Associate at Community At Work, a San Francisco-based consulting firm where she has worked since 1995. Website/Social Media: LEADING COLLABORATION, www.leadingcollaboration.com http://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-fisk-363a85a (Click here to return to the top of the page) Brad Fortier
Session: Building Us: Improvising Our Way Home Biography: Brad Fortier is an anthropologist, educator, author, and performer. He is currently the Sr. Equity Training and Education Coordinator for Uplift Oregon. Brad's approach blends applied anthropology with applied improvisation for systems, group, and individual transformation. His work has largely focused on equity, inclusion, belonging, and racial justice since 2014. (Click here to return to the top of the page) Robin Fox
Session: Trust Talk: Mindfulness and Non-Defensive Communication as path to Emotional Freedom Biography: Robin Fox B.A. Psychology, M.Ed., is a Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) educator, lifelong meditation practitioner and teacher, and professional improv actor. She spent most of her career as a public-school special educator teaching across levels. Since 2013 she’s been creating workshops, leading groups in schools, speaking at conferences, training teachers, and consulting. Robin is a member of the State of Connecticut's Social and Emotional Learning Collaborative. She rewrote the CT Commission on Women, Children, Seniors, Equity & Opportunity’s (CWCSEO) Anti-Bullying Activity Guide, “Building Kindness and Empathy”. Robin is also the author of “Trust Talk for Teens”, a non-defensive communication and safe gun storage guide for high school students. Website/Social Media: Social Eyes www.social-eyes.org https://www.linkedin.com/in/robin-fox-70585868/ (Click here to return to the top of the page) Pookie/Carol Ann Fried
Session: Hybrid is the WORST Format-Unless You Do It Right: A Case Study and Fun Hands-on Experience Biography: Pookie/Carol Ann Fried is a highly energetic and inspirational speaker. Before finding her true calling as a Trainer and Motivational Speaker, Carol Ann was most successful in show business. Her screen credits include:
She has outlived her six husbands, five of whom died from eating poison mushrooms. The sixth met a far more gruesome fate having refused to eat the poison mushrooms. Pookie/Carol Ann is continually working on her Autobiography entitled, Things That Make Me So Interesting. To date Volumes 1 - 9 have been published in 27 different languages and average 2300 pages each. Volume 10, sub-titled Who is the Most Fascinating Person You Know and Why is It Me? will be published next fall and is reaching the 2000 page mark. Incidentally, she also does keynote speaking, leads workshops and is the Chief Playfulness Officer for Playfair Canada, which does orientation events for students at colleges and universities. Website/Social Media: friedom.ca (Click here to return to the top of the page) Jackie Gnepp
Session: How to Design an Applied Improvisation Workshop for a Client Biography: Jackie Gnepp is a consulting and coaching psychologist who specializes in making leaders more effective. She consults with leaders to revitalize organizations, create high-performance teams, resolve conflicts, facilitate innovation, and promote active participation in change. An experienced improviser, she specializes in the use of theater-based skills, such as storytelling and improvisation, to enhance the performance of leadership. Website/Social Media: Humanly Possible, Inc. http://www.humanlypossible.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/jackiegnepp/ (Click here to return to the top of the page) Steve Gravenkemper
Session: Applied Improvisation: Creating a client-centered framework for achieving organizational objectives Biography: I am an organizational psychologist based in Columbus, Ohio. Services that I offer include executive coaching, team effectiveness, talent assessments, culture change, CEO succession, leadership development, emotional intelligence, growth mindset, applied improvisation, appreciative inquiry, and accelerating learning in organizations. Clients describe me as pragmatic, curious, collaborative, supportive, intuitive, and result focused. Key success factors for leaders include demonstrating curiosity and open-mindedness, embracing a growth mindset, building great On a personal note, I enjoy learning, laughter, travel, photography, fresh strawberry pie, and Latin dancing. I perform with local Central Ohio Improv teams. Website/Social Media: https://www.gravenkemperconsulting.com/ (Click here to return to the top of the page) Jeff Harry
Session: Embracing Your Fears: We, Not Me Biography: Jeff Harry combines positive psychology and play to heal workplaces, help teams build psychological safety and assist individuals in addressing their biggest challenges by embracing a play-oriented approach to work. Jeff was selected by BambooHR & Engagedly as one of the Top 100 HR Influencers and has been featured in the NY Times, Mashable, Upworthy, Huffpost, Shondaland, & Wired. Jeff has worked with Google, Microsoft, Southwest Airlines, Adobe, the NFL, Amazon, and Facebook, helping their staff to infuse more play into the day-to-day. Over the past 15 years of facilitation and speaking, Jeff’s main goal has been to help work suck less by assisting leaders in building a playground workplace atmosphere that motivates their staff to do their most vibrant work. Website/Social Media: Rediscover Your Play, rediscoveryourplay.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffharryplays (Click here to return to the top of the page) Miguel Herrera
Session: Transform Companies with Applied Improv Biography: Miguel is a Learning and Strategy manager at Google, an experienced Applied Improv practitioner, founder of Improv@Google and an IPEC Certified Coach. Miguel has over 6 years of Improv experience in 3 continents, and used Applied Improv to help teams and individuals enhance their organizational effectiveness in a diverse range of organizations, from startups to Fortune 10 companies. His interdisciplinary experience in business, instructional design and coaching lets him combine the knowledge of multiple disciplines all at once and as an effect, use improv the way no one else does. Website/Social Media: improvstate.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/miguel-herrera/ (Click here to return to the top of the page) Gary Hirsch
Session: New Ideas Now: Improv and Idea Generation Biography: Gary is the co-founder (along with Robert Poynton) of On Your Feet. He is one of the pioneers of Applied Improv, using it over the past 25 years to help organizations generate new ideas, collaborate, engage audiences and walk their talk. He works closely with clients such as: Nike, Intel, Disney, Apple, and others. After improv, Gary’s second love is visual art. Currently he is obsessed with small domino robots. Gary waxed poetically (and otherwise) about improv, robots, kid’s art and collaboration on his TEDx talk entitled "Meet Your Monster". Storytelling, improvisation, and doodling are all inter-related for Gary--when he’s doing any of these there are never enough hours in the day. Website/Social Media: On Your Feet oyf.com LinkedIn @garyhirsch (Click here to return to the top of the page) Vic Hogg
Sessions: Workshop - Improv and Healthy Confidence: Two Sides, Same Coin Biography: I coach business teams in confidence, creativity and collaboration and resilience via The Offer Bank. I curate tailored workshops in many types of socially engaged setting. I founded a free weekly improvisation jam, DDG Improv in south London. I am also a writer and presenter. Website/Social Media: The Offer Bank: www.theofferbank.co.uk https://www.linkedin.com/in/victoria-hogg-67322ab5/ (Click here to return to the top of the page) Paul Z Jackson
Session: Applying Improvisation for Humanitarian Impact Biography: Paul Z Jackson is a leader in the application of improvisation around the world. Co-founder and past President of the Applied Improvisation Network, he designs and delivers projects, workshops and training programs that transform lives by developing collaborative skills. He draws on his experiences in journalism, comedy production and at the BBC to create impactful, story-rich events that connect directly to the needs of the participants. Website/Social Media: PJA Ltd https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulzjackson/ (Click here to return to the top of the page) David C. Jones
Session: Learning Journey #10 - How to MC Your Life Biography: A multi-award winning creative force David C. Jones is an Audience Engagement Specialist. Whether he is producing, presenting or performing, he has traveled the world and worked in such exotic locations as Israel, Bosnia, Italy, Australia and Switzerland. He has worked as a coach on television series' and a teacher for speakers, public figures and students of all disciplines. As demand for his teaching grew, he created the Audience Engagement Academy. So how did he this bullied, loner, and sensitive high-school kid become a Business in Vancouver Top 40 Under 40, Legacy Award Winner, Vancouver Sun People’s Choice Award Winner, among others? As a young man he discovered he can make people laugh and when they are engaged they were not enraged. His creative career has had him work as a corporate comedian and a keynote speaker, live theatre creator and filmmaker. He also likes to casually mention he was the Entertainment Manager of the 2010 Winter Olympics. But mostly he works as coach and trainer with his courses being heralded as “an inspiring combination of compassion, challenge and humour." Website/Social Media: DCJ Productions. www.davidcjones.ca (under construction - again) (Click here to return to the top of the page) Maarten Joosen
Session: Conference Buddy Bingo Biography: Maarten Joosen makes it his life purpose to make organizations work better, to touch people in their lives, so that organizations, people and the world become better, faster and more fun. He does this by deploying different disciplines to surprise people with different perspectives and cross-pollination. This will help to navigate and find solutions in this increasingly complex world. The connecting characteristic in all those roles is his focus on communication and exchange of ideas. Website/Social Media: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maarten-joosen-35a805/ (Click here to return to the top of the page) Sevanne Kassarjian
Session: Starting at Home: Building Belonging and Catalyzing Becoming Biography: Sevanne is the Vice President of Global Client Solutions at POAL, where she leads a global team of facilitator-coaches and designers in co-creating solutions with clients. She oversees the client portfolio, ensuring excellence, learning, and enjoyment throughout the process. Sevanne's expertise lies in developing the talented facilitator-coach team, whom she fondly refers to as the "cast," through recruitment, training, and ongoing coaching. As an actor and teacher, Sevanne explores the transformative power of the stage and its ability to help people navigate the world. She has partnered with anthropologist Mary Catherine Bateson to create workshops that combine cultural anthropology tools with acting and improvisation techniques. Sevanne has also facilitated entrepreneur training programs and served as an in-house coach for numerous organizations and Fortune 500 companies. With a background in TV and stage, Sevanne holds a BA from Brown University and an MFA from the University of California, San Diego. She takes pride in her Armenian and Iranian heritage, her enduring marriage, her children's talent in performance direction, and her resilience in overcoming multiple limb injuries. Website/Social Media: https://performanceofalifetime.com/ (Click here to return to the top of the page) Jan Keck
Session: The Secret Ingredient: Unlocking Engagement with Deep Connections Biography: Jan Keck is a trainer, facilitator and experience designer, but if you met him at a networking event and asked: “So, what do you do?”, he might say that he’s on a “small talk detox.” Several years ago, he created a deck of Connection Cards to help his friends bond on a camping trip, and now they're being used to turn shallow conversations into deep connections on every continent around the globe (yep, even Antarctica). Since then, he has been running countless experiences that promote trust, vulnerability and create a sense of belonging. Since 2020 he has trained thousands of people to create highly inclusive, engaging and meaningful experiences when we can’t be in the same room together. Recently, he relocated from Canada to Germany to be closer to family and is continuing to build a global community of trainers, facilitators and creators that create Magical Human Moments. I hope you’ll join him on his mission to help people feel less alone and fuel the movement for deeper human connection. Website/Social Media: Ask Deep Questions - http://www.jankeck.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/jankeck/ (Click here to return to the top of the page) Laurie Krupski
Session: Learning Journey #9 - Yes, and . . .Dance, and Biography: Laurie Krupski (PhD) facilitates creative, experiential activities that ignite meaningful change in individuals, partners and groups. She specializes in immersive experiences including somatic awareness, mindfulness, resilience, mind-body movement, well-being leadership, social dance, ballroom dance instruction and applied improvisation. Website/Social Media: Transformative Health and Wellness, www.transformativehealthwellness.com linkedin.com/in/lauriekrupski (Click here to return to the top of the page) Jeanne Lambin
Sessions: Workshop - The Ordinary/Extraordinary: An Applied Improvisation Life Kit Learning Journey #2 THE Quest - Improvisation for Transformation Biography: Jeanne is a coach, facilitator, storyteller, and artist who wholeheartedly believes in the power of improvisation and storytelling as powerful tools for personal, organizational, and social change. Website/Social Media: The Human Imagination Project/Eleven Minutes to Mars (dba Lamb Ink, LLC) (Click here to return to the top of the page) Irene Loy
Session: Getting the Sacred Joke (about ourselves) Biography: Irene has been the Research and Communications Director with Improv Medicine (IM), an applied improvisation LLC, in New Mexico (alongside Founder and Director Jason Pfeifer) since 2016. With IM, she has developed curricula, co-facilitated workshops, and performed improv around New Mexico. She also completed the Medical Improv training with Katie Watson, JD, at Northwestern University in Chicago in June 2022. While her applied improvisation work (play!) began with improving communication between medical professionals and their patients, it has expanded to include caregivers, music students at the University of New Mexico, teens at Taos High School, and nonprofit leaders. Website/Social Media: https://www.linkedin.com/in/irene-loy-8959b1169/ (Click here to return to the top of the page) Michelle Macau
Session: Applying Improv to the Humanitarian Perspective in Uganda, Africa Biography: Michelle Macau has been applying the tenants of improv to non-performers in university settings since 2007 (Carnegie-Mellon, Lehigh, and Yeshiva Universities in the United States). As an actor and director, she uses improv for character work and scene development. She attended her first AIN Conference in Austin, TX in 2014 and has been a member of the AIN Scholarship Committee since 2018. (Click here to return to the top of the page) Erica Marx
Session: Conference Buddy Bingo Biography: Erica Marx is an Executive and Team Coach who works with teams and leaders to create positive, creative, and collaborative organizations. She is a PCC certified professional coach through the International Coach Federation (ICF) and a NYS certified conflict mediator. She earned her B.S. from Cornell University and a Master's in Interdisciplinary Ecology from the University of Florida. Erica is on the board of AIN and is one of the original founders of the Online Open Space sessions. You can find her online on LinkedIn. Website/Social Media: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericamarxcoaching/ (Click here to return to the top of the page) Mitch MiyagawaSession: Learning Journey #12 - Silent Disco Epic Adventure In the City Biography: Mitch Miyagawa is an event organizer, facilitator, community arts practitioner and writer on Gabriola Island. He is also a Certified Trainer in Compassionate Communication (NVC). His company Maji Events organizes soulful, artistic, and transformational community events “on land and online”, specializing in workshops and festivals. Website/Social Media: Maji Events https://www.maji.events/ (Click here to return to the top of the page) Jamie Montgomery
Session: Learning Journey #6 - Did I Hear That Right? Website/Social Media: LinkedIn - Jamie Montgomery (Click here to return to the top of the page) Mariah Muñoz
Session: New Ideas Now: Improv and Idea Generation Biography: Mariah Mercedes Muñoz, is a dynamic and fierce improvisational actor, facilitator, and educator based in Portland, Oregon. She wears a sparkling coat of many colors, and believes that the skills and mindsets cultivated through improvisation can have a profound impact not just on organizational culture and behavior but life itself. She is currently a lead facilitator at On Your Feet, a consultancy that specializes in applied improvisation. In this role, she works both virtually and live with companies such as Nike, Intel, P&G, and Google, among others, to design initiatives that help organizations live their values and break down silos to create stronger, more collaborative teams. Today, Mariah not only performs improv and teaches the art form at Kickstand Comedy, but she has also directed popular shows such as Girls With Heads and Late Night Feelings, showcasing her unique creative vision and versatility. Mariah is also dedicated to expanding people's understanding of improv. She works to introduce others to the full range of what improv can be, taking them on a journey to a new world of possibilities. (Click here to return to the top of the page) Joey Novick
Session: Improvisational Politics Biography: Joey Novick, Esq. is an entertainment law attorney with experience working with storytellers, facilitators, trainers and speakers. He is the general counsel for the Applied Improvisation Network and the New Jersey Storytelling Network. He is a longtime volunteer attorney for the Volunteer Lawyers for the Arts in New York City, and the former Executive Director for the New Jersey Volunteer Lawyers for the Arts. Joey has provided workshops for the New Jersey State Bar Association, the Applied Improvisation Network annual conference, as well as many other bar associations and law conferences. As a storyteller, Joey has written two solo shows, and performed at Fringe Festivals. His solo show, “Comedian Elected to Town Council in New Jersey” was nominated for Best Comedy Performance at the Capital Fringe Festival. Website/Social Media: www.entertainmentlegal.org (Click here to return to the top of the page) Nicola Pauling
Session: AINx Talk - Inclusion and Equity in Dementia Care-A Case Study from Aotearoa, NZ Biography: Nicola Pauling is an applied improvisation trainer and facilitator with over 20 years experience developing people and communities through play and performance. She is the founder and Artistic Director of the charitable trust, Voice Arts, based in Wellington. She has led more than 50 successful participatory performance projects working with children, teens, at risk youth, former refugees and new migrants, prisoners, seniors and elders. She has developed these projects in partnership with government agencies, local councils, health professionals and social service providers. Website/Social Media: Voice Arts, www.voice-arts.org.nz facebook.com/voiceartstrust (Click here to return to the top of the page) Jonathan PittsSession: Learning Journey #11 - Coaching The Coaches Biography: Jonathan Pitts is an award winning international improviser and storyteller who has taught and/or performed in over 100 cities in 26 countries. He's the former Executive Director of Chicago Improv Productions, as well as the co-founder and producer of the prestigious Chicago Improv Festival, as well as the founder and producer of the College Improv Tournament. He also taught at The Second City for 16 years. New City magazine named him one of the "Top 50 Theatre Players" in the city for 3 years in a row. Website/Social Media: www.GlobalImprovWalkabout.com (Click here to return to the top of the page) Patricia Raun
Session: Turning Straw into Gold: The Alchemy of Reflecting on Experience Biography: Patricia Raun is the founding director of the Center for Communicating Science at Virginia Tech and professor of theatre in their School of Performing Arts. During her years as a professional actor, Raun was inspired to discover ways to support the development of skills of connection and communication in scientists, engineers, and health professionals. As a theatre voice specialist, her mission is to promote positive transformation by developing healthy and varied voices—both literal and figurative—in individuals, institutions, and communities. Her research interests include applied improvisation, empathy, role play, and collaborative problem solving. Her credentials include undergraduate and graduate degrees in theatre; work with the American Repertory Theatre, Harvard University; work with the Royal Shakespeare Company; and work with the Alda Center for Communicating Science at Stony Brook University. Website/Social Media: Patricia Raun https://communicatingscience.isce.vt.edu/ (Click here to return to the top of the page) Jaime RichSession: Teaching Improv Across the Age Spectrum Biography: Jaime Rich has been a facilitator/trainer for most of her career, spanning over 25 years. She has been in the improv world for 8 years. She is currently a player, co-producer and creative director in and for ACT II Improv in the San Francisco Bay Area. She teaches improv to all levels around the Bay Area. Website/Social Media: Spontaneous Mind (Click here to return to the top of the page) Jeff RogersBiography: Jeff Rogers is a WSJ, Amazon & USA Today Best-Selling Author, award-winning Television Host, Professional MC and sought after public speaker with 30+ years of experience engaging audiences. He has studied Design Thinking at Harvard, MIT and Stanford and is a certified Design Thinking Facilitator through ExperiencePoint. He has studied Storytelling for Influence with IDEO. Jeff can be seen on dozens of national television commercials for Crestor, BP, McDonald’s, Miller Lite, Hanes & Ford, as well as roles on Empire, Chicago PD, Chicago Fire, and Proven Innocent. He is the host of the cable TV’s Jeff’s Homemade Game Show. He is also the host of three different award-winning webseries. Growing up as one of eleven kids from an Irish-catholic family in Chicago, Jeff grew up with a built-in audience and went on to become one of youngest performers to be hired at the renowned Second City Theater (John Belushi was the youngest). Jeff performed with Steve Carell from The Office, Stephen Colbert from The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, Saturday Night Live, 30 Rock star Tina Fey and Parks and Rec star Amy Poehler . . . and too many more to mention. Jeff is the owner of The Players Workshop, the oldest improvisation school in the country, home to alumni like Bill Murray, Bonnie Hunt, Harold Ramis, and Matt Walsh. Jeff continues the tradition of teaching improvisation to anyone interested in learning the art for stage or for life. Website/Social Media: Players Workshop https://www.playersworkshoponline.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/meetjeffrogers/ (Click here to return to the top of the page) Ada Roseti
Sessions: AINx Talk - Games of Science - Do You Want to Change the World Workshop - Conference Buddy Bingo Website/Social Media: adaroseti.com (Click here to return to the top of the page) Yael Schy
Session: Learning Journey #7 - ReimAgINing Inclusion: Bridging Generations and Cultures with Applied Improv Biography: Yael Schy is a dynamic theater and dance instructor, improviser, storyteller, singer/songwriter, and Founder of Zoomers to Boomers Improv, who is known for her creative approach that makes learning FUN! Yael has been performing and teaching theater and dance for all age groups for almost 50 years, including being a pioneer in teaching INTERGENERATIONAL IMPROVISATION for more than a decade. She is director of All That Jazz, a San Francisco Bay Area musical improv troupe, and of the Alameda Comedy Club Improv program, as well as a founding member of the Applied Improvisation Network. Yael is passionate about using improv as a tool to connect people across generations, cultures, and organizations. Website/Social Media: Zoomers to Boomers Improv: https://zoomerstoboomersimprov.com/ (Click here to return to the top of the page) Tracy Shea-Porter
Session: Applied Improvisation: Creating a client-centered framework for achieving organizational objectives Biography: Tracy Shea-Porter Tracy is a co-founder of Yes Unlimited, and has an extensive background in Applied Improvisation, together with corporate communications, marketing, and sales. As a consultant, facilitator, improviser, speaker, and writer, she designs and facilitates effective improv training and events, helping leaders and teams communicate effectively. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree with distinction from the University of Toronto, and is a member of ACTRA, and a Professional Member of AIN (Applied Improvisation Network). Recent clients include Accenture, CAMH, Constellation Software/Perseus Group, The Source, Whitby Chamber of Commerce, and University of Toronto. Website/Social Media: Yes Unlimited. www.yesunlimited.ca https://www.linkedin.com/in/tracy-shea-porter-78648613/ (Click here to return to the top of the page) Rina Shimomura
Session: AINx Talk - Changing Parent-Child Relationships Through Improv Biography: Rina Shimomura is an improviser and educator from Tokyo, Japan. She has been working with children since graduating from Tsukuba Graduate School in Japan in 2015. She is a specialist in children with learning disabilities and is licensed to teach English in Japan. She studied improvisation and drama education abroad, in Canada and the United States. In 2018, she founded IMPRO KIDS TOKYO, an improv education company with a focus to help children develop both communication skills and the idea of “accepting others”. Our company of nearly 20 people is a response to certain issues in the Japanese education system, where there are few communication lessons and many mental health problems. Not only for children, this company also empowers parents and schools. She moved to Vancouver in 2021 and joined Tightrope Impro Theatre as a cast and faculty. Website/Social Media: https://rinashimomura.com/ (Click here to return to the top of the page) Patrick ShortSession: Learning Journey #8 - AI for Performers and Non-Performers Biography: Patrick Short is currently co-owner and General Manager of CSz Portland, producers of ComedySportz & Thinking People’s Theatre, founded in 1993 with over 5,200 ComedySportz shows (including at least one every week since May 28, 1993) performed over 1,000 other improv events, 2,000+ classes & nearly 1,000 corporate training events. Patrick has produced, composed for & directed educational theater and video for Metro, Oregon Food Bank and the Portland Water Bureau with nearly 400 performances around the Portland area. In his spare time, he writes & records original music for specific CSz & TPT projects, as well as 7 albums in the past 7 years as Patrick Short’s Extended Family, The Pullovers, tell.short.gray and Kaybert. Patrick holds degrees from the University of Wisconsin-Madison (Master of Fine Arts, Stage Direction, 1986) and Lawrence University (Bachelor of Arts, Biology, 1982). Certifications: CAI-EP - Certified in Applied Improv, Executive Provider, CSz Worldwide; AIN - Certified by the Applied Improvisation Network. (Click here to return to the top of the page) Susan Snyder
Session: Community by Design: Using Applied Improvisation to Enhance Community in Every Engagement Biography: Susan Snyder is a Lecturer at the Haas School of Business (UC Berkeley) and a civilian Trainer for the City of Berkeley CERT (Community Emergency Response Team). She fell in love with improv during her first class in 1994 (with the fabulous Rebecca Stockley) and the relationship has taken her on all kinds of adventures. She loves delving into communities of practice and has joyfully been a regular Zoom Open Space participant. (Click here to return to the top of the page) Karen Strong
Sessions: AINx Talk - Demonstrating the value of applied improvisation for difficult conversations about social challenges Workshop - Applied Improvisation for Climate Conversations . . . Or ANY Difficult Conversations Biography: Karen Strong (strongoutcomes.com) is a consultant who supports organizations that conserve land, wildlife, and water. Over the past 24 years, she has built capacity to conserve natural resources in dozens of communities and organizations and is always thinking about how to make conservation more relevant to more people. She uses applied improvisation to help conservation professionals be more responsive to their audiences. Website/Social Media: http://www.strongoutcomes.com/ | http://linkedin.com/in/karen-strong-68520b12 (Click here to return to the top of the page) Marieke Van Laar
Session: Conference Buddy Bingo Biography: Marieke van Laar facilitates trainings for business teams in communication, teambuilding, change management and presentation skills. She developed trainings for online and hybrid meetings: teaching other facilitators how to enhance audience interaction, equal participation and more fun and effectiveness in their meetings and events. Marieke has a background in management and HR learning & development. She uses applied improv, serious games and other forms of experiential learning. Marieke was in the organization team of the AIN Online Open Spaces on Tuesdays, together with Maarten Joosen and others. Website/Social Media: http://www.linkedin.com/in/marieke-van-laar/ (Click here to return to the top of the page) Joel Veenstra
Sessions: AINx Talk - Yes And'ing Gender Transition Together AINx Talk - Legacies: Keith Johnstone, The Global Improvisation Initiative, Where We Come From and What Comes Next? Biography: Joel Veenstra is a highly accomplished professional in the fields of stage management, production management, producing, and improvisation. As a stage manager affiliated with the Actors' Equity Association, he has coordinated collaborations and productions with esteemed regional theaters such as the Oregon Shakespeare Festival, Pasadena Playhouse, and Laguna Playhouse. Joel has also managed large-scale celebrity galas, including the Legacy Awards honoring notable figures like Tom Hanks and Laverne Cox. His extensive experience includes serving as the Vice Chair of Production at the University of California's Claire Trevor School of the Arts, where he collaborates on various projects and events. Joel has produced and consulted on conferences, symposiums, festivals, and film productions, working with organizations like Cirque du Soleil and the Stage Managers' Association. He has also played a significant role in launching initiatives such as the Global Improvisation Initiative Symposium and the Applied Improvisation Network World Conference. In addition to his professional achievements, Joel is an educator, speaker, and advocate for the interconnection of improvisation, stage management, and production. He holds a Master of Fine Arts in Drama and a Bachelor of Arts in Communication Arts and Sciences. Joel resides in Irvine, California, with his partner and their two sons, where he actively practices mindfulness, improvisation, and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. Website/Social Media: https://www.facebook.com/joel.veenstra1 (Click here to return to the top of the page) Tiger VeenstraSession: AINx Talk - Yes And'ing Gender Transition Together Website/Social Media: http://www.tigerveenstra.com (Click here to return to the top of the page) Myriam VerzatSession: Learning Journey #12 - Silent Disco Epic Adventure In the City Biography: Myriam is a certified trainer in NonViolent Communication (NVC), as well as a creative facilitator and an artist in dance and theater. She started Collective Groove in 2019 to offer fun silent disco experiences to all ages. She also created a Silent Disco performance called Lila that was performed twice in Nanaimo. Myriam has 10 years of experience in event organizing online and in person, and she enjoys using improvisation and artistic tools for creating meaningful and playful environments for learning. Her goal is to empower organizations and individuals to build a more compassionate, playful and sustainable world. Website/Social Media: Collective Groove https://www.myriamverzat.com/reconnect/artistic-work (Click here to return to the top of the page) Rosanna von Sacken
Session: Learning Journey #9 - Yes, and . . .Dance, and Biography: Rosanna von Sacken (M.Sc., CPF) designs fun and interactive experiences to help groups, organizations and individuals gain clarity and achieve their goals, and become more impactful leaders. She uses visuals, applied improv activities and movement in her work to help participants see, feel and hear each other’s ideas in engaging ways. Website/Social Media: Advanced Consulting and Facilitation Ltd. www.advancedconsultingfacilitation.com (Click here to return to the top of the page) Gary Ware
Session: Learning Journey #7 - ReimAgINing Inclusion: Bridging Generations and Cultures with Applied Improv Biography: Gary Ware, the Founder of Breakthrough Play, is a sought-after Corporate Facilitator and Keynote Speaker with nearly a decade of experience as a performer in improv theatre. He assists teams with unlocking creativity and confidence, and sparks collaboration with experiential methods proven to drive peak performance. As a facilitator, Gary has worked with people of all ages. His experience has ranged from improv workshops assisting elementary school students with emotional intelligence, to Laughter Yoga at assisted living facilities. Website/Social Media: Breakthrough Play: https://www.breakthroughplay.com/ (Click here to return to the top of the page) Eddie Wasswa Jjemba
Session: Applying Improv to the Humanitarian Perspective in Uganda, Africa Biography: Eddie Jjemba is an Urban Resilience Advisor at the Red Cross and Red Crescent Climate Centre based in Uganda. Eddie supports the Climate Centre's urban resilience initiatives in Africa. This includes facilitating participatory games, dialogues and trainings aimed at addressing climate risks for cities. Before joining the Climate Centre, Eddie managed projects focused in experiential learning and urban disaster risk management in Uganda. Eddie's work is informed by Masters degrees in Climate and Society from Columbia University, New York City. Website/Social Media: Red Cross Red Crescent Climate Centre (Click here to return to the top of the page) Nancy Watt
Session: The Tactical Scale: Expanding Your AI Business with Strategic Collaborations Website/Social Media: https://nancywattcomm.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/nancywatt/ (Click here to return to the top of the page) Matt Weinstein
Session: Hybrid is the WORST Format-Unless You Do It Right: A Case Study and Fun Hands-on Experience Biography: Matt Weinstein is the nation’s foremost authority on the use of fun and humor in team building. Called “The Master of Playfulness” by PEOPLE Magazine and “America’s Pied Piper of Play” by the Houston Chronicle, Matt is the founder and “Emperor” of Playfair, Inc., an international consulting firm that presents more than 350 community-building events each year. Matt was elected to the Professional Speaker’s Hall of Fame by the National Speaker’s Association, and was honored by Successful Meetings Magazine as one of the “21 Top Speakers for the 21st Century. Website/Social Media: https://www.playfair.com playfaircanada.com (Click here to return to the top of the page) David Westerlund
Biography: David delights in listening to the aspirations of leaders and helping them unlock hidden resources by facilitating meaningful engagement. This unleashes innovation, and leads to resilient, supportive, joyful, and agile workplace cultures that allow organizations to have greater momentum and impact towards their mission. His work as a consultant, designer/facilitator, and coach is informed by the philosophy and practice of Liberating Structures and Applied Improvisation, both of which remind us there is a lot of wisdom in the room, and to amplify our ability to tap into that and experience collective synergy. Website/Social Media: David Westerlund Consulting and Coaching, BePresentDiscoverJoy.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-westerlund/ (Click here to return to the top of the page) Randy WightSession: Teaching Improv Across the Age Spectrum Website/Social Media: Spontaneous Mind (Click here to return to the top of the page) John Windmueller
Session: Connecting Applied Improv and Conflict Resolution: Theory and Practice Biography: I hold a PhD in Conflict Analysis & Resolution, have served on the Board of Directors of the Association for Conflict Resolution, and have over two decades of experience leading conflict resolution interventions, training, and graduate education. Along with my conflict resolution background, I have a decade of experience as a full-time Applied Improv practitioner and serve as the Director of Washington Improv Theater’s WIT@Work program, one of the largest providers of Applied Improv workshops in the US. I’ve also been performing, directing, and teaching improv (locally and in festivals and improv camps across the US) for two decades. Website/Social Media: www.witdc.org/work https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-windmueller (Click here to return to the top of the page) Yuehai YangSession: Reimagining the STEM Trajectory: Applied Improvisation and Science (Click here to return to the top of the page) Lisa Yeager
Sessions: AINx Talk - Demonstrating the value of applied improvisation for difficult conversations about social challenges Workshop - Applied Improvisation for Climate Conversations . . . Or ANY Difficult Conversations Biography: Lisa Yeager recently completed a fellowship with the North American Association for Environmental Education focused on environmental education and civic engagement. She holds an MBA and has over 20 years of experience leading change initiatives. In addition to her MBA, earlier this year, she finished a master’s degree in biology focused on climate change engagement from Miami University. Website/Social Media: http://www.climateconversations.net/ | http://www.linkedin.com/in/lisayeagerpmp/ (Click here to return to the top of the page)
Thank you to The Association for Applied and Therapeutic Humor (AATH) for sponsoring our Conference Program. Check out the AATH by clicking here!
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