What can improv teach us about life? Pediatric emergency physician and performer Mark Zonfrillo shares how taking an improv class transformed not only his creativity but also his approach to parenting, medicine, and leadership. With humor and humility, he highlights the radical power of “Yes, and…” to build trust, reduce anxiety, and foster collaboration. This talk is a compelling reminder that embracing uncertainty can unlock surprising joy, connection, and growth—on and off stage. Mark R. Zonfrillo, MD, MSCE, (Brown ’99 and MD ’03) is a pediatric emergency medicine physician, clinical epidemiologist, and Professor of Emergency Medicine and Pediatrics at Hasbro Children’s Hospital and the Alpert Medical School of Brown University. His research focuses on pediatric injury epidemiology and prevention, with an emphasis on risk factors and outcomes for motor vehicle occupant injuries and traumatic brain injuries. In addition, he has completed over 120 hours of improvisational comedy training and performs regularly with two local improv teams. He hopes to inspire others by demonstrating how spontaneity, deep listening, and a “yes, and” mindset can enhance communication, teamwork, and adaptability in their personal and professional lives. 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
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