Izzy Gesell M.ED, CSP knows a lot about the healing power of humor and play. With degrees in psychology and education, Izzy brings energy and joy to all he does – whether he’s working as a special education teacher, a stand-up comic, or an organizational consultant.
Izzy not only is funny in his own right but also teaches others how to use humor and play. He is the author of numerous publications including Playing Along: Group Learning Activities Borrowed From Improvisation Theater and Cancer and the Healing Power of Play.
In this podcast, Izzy talks with Helen Osborne about:
- How humor & play can add positive energy, build bridges, and create bonds.
- Knowing when, and when not, to use humor in health communication.
- Being humorous, even when you think you’re not funny.
More Ways to Learn:
- To contact Izzy Gesell and access his many resources, go to Izzy’s website at www.izzyg.com
- Osborne, H. “In Other Words…Adding A Dose of Humor to Your Patient Teaching,” On Call Magazine, July/August 2003. Available at http://www.healthliteracy.com/article.asp?PageID=3797
- Health Literacy Out Loud Podcast #5: Jan Potter Talks about Using Humor & Graphics to Convey Health Information. Available at /2008/11/17/jan-potter-talks-about-using-humor-graphics-to-convey-health-information/
- Martin, Steve (2007). Born Standing Up: A Comic’s Life. Available in print and as an audio book.
Health Literacy from A to Z: Practical Ways to Communicate Your Health Message, Second Edition (Updated 2018), by Helen Osborne. Relevant chapters include: 14, 40, 41.
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