NOTE FROM TED: This talk only represents the speaker's personal views and understanding of language, stress, and physiology. TEDx events are independently organized by volunteers. The guidelines we give TEDx organizers are described in more detail here: http://storage.ted.com/tedx/manuals/tedx_content_guidelines.pdfImprovisational comedy teaches practioners not to negate their scene partner and, instead, to use affirming language. In this fascinating talk, expert Sonja Stetzler reveals how two powerful words from the world of improvisation can turn contentious and difficult relationship interactions into collaboration. Through her research in the field and her own personal experience interfacing with her teenage son, Stetzler reveals how "yes and" changes dynamics and unlocks common ground between people. Sonja Stetzler, MA, CPC is the founder of Effective Connecting, a coaching and consulting practice specializing in developing the communication and leadership skills of mid-to-senior level business professionals. Sonja works with her clients to craft their message, convey it with confidence, and most importantly, connect with their audiences. Sonja is a Certified Professional Coach and a Conversational Intelligence® coach with several decades’ worth of experience in management, sales, training, education, and coaching/consulting.Sonja uses applied improvisation in her work as a coach, facilitator, and trainer and has conducted research to determine the impact of using applied improvisation techniques on communication skills. She co-authored a peer-reviewed journal article on her research that concluded that applied improvisation can positively impact empathetic communication skills. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx