Into the Mycelial Mind: Slava Sapershteyn on Clowning, Gestalt and Connection
In this episode of the Clown Spirit podcast, I welcome Slava Sapershteyn (Slap and Shine), a clown and Gestalt therapist originally from Ukraine and now living in Canada. The discussion delves into Slava’s unique journey, her alternative last name, and the significance of slapping as metaphors in her work. We explore the parallels between mycelial networks and human relational systems, emphasizing the importance of contact, curiosity, and resilience. Slava shares her perspectives on the interplay between clowning and therapy, the role of humor, and the value of creating spaces for healing and connection. The conversation highlights the profound impact of metaphors and relational practices in fostering human connection and understanding.
>>SLAVA SAPERSHTEYN'S WEBSITE
>>MORE FROM CLOWN SPIRIT
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52:42
3 Keys to Making a Living with Clown
In this episode, we delve into how to turn clowning into a full-time career. Learn the key skills needed to create a successful clown-related business. The host shares personal experiences from over two decades in the clowning world and introduces a new course called 'The Business of Clowning.' Discover the importance of strategic planning, tactical skills, and holistic wellbeing in building a sustainable career in clowning. The episode also offers insights into persistence, diversification, and communication as vital components for success.
>>CLOWN SPIRIT RESOURCES
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29:58
Viggo Venn: The Clown Who Won
In this episode, we revisit an iconic clown-versation interview with Norwegian comedian and clown Viggo Venn, who won Britain's Got Talent in 2023. The conversation delves into Viggo's journey from his first clown workshop to his triumphant win, his interactions with the judges, and the technical details of his performances. Viggo also shares insights into his inspirations, his training with renowned clown teacher Philippe Gaulier, and his teaching experiences. The episode highlights the essence of clowning and Viggo's future plans, while celebrating the joy and vulnerability in his art.
Viggo's BGT performances
Viggo's Website
CLOWN SPIRIT RESOURCES
Original Clown-versation Video
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59:47
Abhijit Sinha: Rethinking Education and Clowning
In this episode, we explore the powerful and subversive vision of Abhijit Sinha, founder of Project Defy, an organization dedicated to transforming education. Based in Bangalore, India, Project Defy challenges the conventional 'factory model' of education, emphasizing community-driven learning and the importance of reclaiming the present for children rather than preparing them solely for the future. Abijit shares his personal journey from a disillusioned corporate worker to a pioneering educational innovator, highlighting the need to shift human narratives from economy-centric to happiness-centric. Throughout the discussion, we delve into the importance of leadership, community, and the transformative potential of embracing paradoxes in the quest to build a more connected and thoughtful world.
>>PROJECT DEFY WEBSITE
>>CLOWN SPIRIT RESOURCES
>>VIDEO OF CONVERSATION
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1:12:23
How Do I Know I Am Doing a Good Job (as a clown)
In this episode of the Clown Spirit Podcast, Barnaby King, founder of Clown Spirit, delves into the persistent question of how to know if you're doing a good job as a clown. Using examples from the Clown Spirit Village community and his own experiences, Barnaby explores three distinct perspectives: learning through feedback loops, the transactional nature of clowning, and the transcendent experience of shared humanity. He reflects on how these ideas apply both to clowning and to life, arguing for a balance between external validation and internal authenticity. The episode encourages listeners to embrace the spontaneous and interconnected nature of clowning, ultimately inviting clowns and non-clowns alike to step over the edge of the cliff and let the 'clown gods' guide them.
Explorations into all the colors, dimensions and constellations of clown practice. Some episodes find Barnaby in conversation with influential thought leaders and clown artists, while in others it's just little old him reflecting on the power of the ridiculous.
New Zealand