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B2B Vault Podcast: Comedy, Change & Leadership with Joel Zeff – Why Fun at Work Isn’t a Joke
Welcome back to another episode of B2B Vault: The Biz-to-Biz Podcast, hosted by Allen Kopelman—sponsored by Nationwide Payment Systems, home of NPSONE and ClickBillR—your smart invoicing solution for modern businesses.
In this episode, we explore the powerful intersection of comedy, leadership, and workplace culture with keynote speaker, author, and improvisational master, Joel Zeff. Joel’s approach to business isn’t just unique, it’s unforgettable. With 30+ years of experience blending improv and motivation, he helps companies create more passionate, productive, and fun workplaces.
Meet Joel Zeff: Where Improv Meets Impact
Joel isn’t your typical corporate speaker. A former journalist for the Dallas Times Herald, Joel’s career took a turn after the paper shut down—leading him into standup, improv comedy, and eventually corporate keynotes that fuse laughter with learning.
His storytelling style, fueled by improvisation and humor, delivers real-world lessons on:
- Leadership
- Embracing change
- Building team culture
- Staying engaged in the workplace.
Joel’s new book, Make the Right Choice: Lead with Passion, Elevate Your Team, and Unleash the Fun at Work, dives into these topics with relatable stories, practical tools, and a healthy dose of wit.
“We don’t control the change—we only control how we react to it.” – Joel Zeff
sponsored by
The Power of “Ta-da!”: Why Celebration Fuels Success
Joel Zeff champions the return of childhood joy through celebrating small wins. His philosophy? Recognition builds confidence, collaboration, and motivation.
He urges companies to foster a culture of appreciation—not just perks like pizza Fridays, but genuine, consistent recognition.
Try this: At the end of your workday, ask yourself: Did I thank someone today? Tomorrow, say “I appreciate you.” It’s free, takes 10 seconds, and builds culture instantly.
Improv as a Business Tool
Joel’s keynotes use improv games to spark engagement and teach essential business skills:
• One-word-at-a-time storytelling
• The Road Trip game (emotion-driven collaboration)
• Corporate improv scenarios
These games build:
• Listening
• Quick thinking
• Collaboration
• Adaptability
Finding Strength in Uncertainty
Joel’s “Magic Harmonica Moment” story—playing blues on a loading dock after losing his job—illustrates resilience and adaptability.
Whether facing layoffs, mergers, or personal crossroads, your response defines your path forward.
Workplace Culture: From Boring to Bold
Joel and Allen discussed how humor and culture have evolved in the workplace. Joel’s formula:
• Humor should be inclusive, not exclusive
• Fun should be meaningful, not forced
• Leadership should create space for personal expression
Analytics, AI & Acronyms: Where’s the Human Element?
Joel reminds us: passion doesn’t come from KPIs—it comes from purpose.
Allen adds: embracing AI is essential.
Adaptability, creativity, and passion are now the most valuable assets in business.
Joel’s Book
Title: Make the Right Choice: Lead with Passion, Elevate Your Team, and Unleash the Fun at Work
Where to Buy: Amazon, Barnes & Noble
Website: JoelZeff.com
Bonus: Mention the B2B Vault podcast and Joel will send you a free chapter—just reach out via LinkedIn or his website.
Final Thoughts from the Podcast
You have the power to:
• Choose your attitude
• Lead with authenticity
• Laugh and connect with your team
• Stay in the game—even when things get uncomfortable
Listen to the full episode:
• Biz to Biz Podcast on YouTube
• Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favorite platform
• Want to be a guest? Visit b2bvault.info
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FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions
What is Joel Zeff known for?
He’s a keynote speaker and author who uses improv and humor to teach business leadership, teamwork, and adaptability.
What is “Ta-da” in the workplace?
It’s the concept of celebrating small wins to build confidence and team morale.
Why is improv effective in business training?
It teaches listening, creativity, adaptability, and team collaboration—all essential leadership skills.
What is Joseph Stettler's solution to the broken hiring system?
Joseph is developing a new AI system designed to match people not only on technical skills but also on character, personality, and cultural fit. The goal is to reduce employee turnover by 70% and increase engagement by 50%
Why is improv effective in business training?
It teaches listening, creativity, adaptability, and team collaboration—all essential leadership skills.
