What is *Yes, And* by Kelly Leonard about?

*Yes, And* by Kelly Leonard and Tom Yorton explores how improv comedy principles, like the "Yes, And" mindset, can transform business collaboration and innovation. The book draws on The Second City’s methods to teach teams to embrace spontaneity, build on ideas, and foster creativity in workplaces. It includes case studies from organizations like Google and NASA that used these techniques to improve decision-making and adaptability.

Who should read *Yes, And*?

This book is ideal for business leaders, managers, and professionals seeking to enhance teamwork, creativity, and communication. It’s particularly valuable for those in fast-paced industries requiring agility, as well as individuals aiming to overcome self-doubt or improve networking skills through improv-inspired strategies.

Is *Yes, And* worth reading?

Yes, particularly for teams facing communication barriers or innovation stalls. The book provides actionable frameworks, such as "following the follower" (empowering any team member to lead) and the "Exposure" exercise (reducing self-consciousness), backed by real-world examples from Fortune 500 companies and government agencies.

What does the "Yes, And" principle mean in business?

The "Yes, And" principle encourages accepting contributions ("Yes") and building on them ("And") to foster collaboration. In business, this means avoiding dismissive responses, leveraging diverse ideas, and creating psychological safety for teams to innovate. For example, it helps reframe challenges as opportunities during brainstorming sessions.

How does *Yes, And* address workplace anxiety?

The book shares techniques like Second City’s "Exposure" exercise, where individuals focus on tasks rather than self-judgment. Case studies, such as an introverted HR manager’s journey, show how embracing improv reduces overthinking and builds confidence in networking or public speaking.

What are key leadership lessons from *Yes, And*?

- **Embrace failure** as a tool for growth. - **Delegate leadership** through "following the follower." - **Prioritize active listening** to uncover innovative ideas. The authors argue that leaders who model vulnerability and adaptability inspire more resilient teams.

How does *Yes, And* differ from traditional business books?

Unlike rigid strategy guides, *Yes, And* emphasizes fluid, human-centered practices over fixed plans. It blends humor with behavioral science, offering tools for real-time problem-solving rather than theoretical models. This approach mirrors improv’s focus on co-creation and adaptability.

Can "Yes, And" improve remote team dynamics?

Yes. The book’s emphasis on active listening and validating contributions helps remote teams combat disconnection. For example, virtual “Yes, And” exercises can replace dismissive language with constructive dialogue, fostering inclusion in hybrid environments.

Yes, And Summary, PDF, EPUB, Audio

Yes, And

Kelly Leonard & Tom Yorton

3.66 (1317 Reviews)

Business

Communication skill

Leadership

Relationship

Overview

Key Takeaways

Author

FAQs

From Second City's improv stage to Google and NASA, "Yes, And" revolutionizes collaboration through acceptance rather than negation. Michael Lewis called it "an excellent guide" while business leaders embrace its philosophy to foster creativity, overcome challenges, and transform corporate culture. What could you accomplish by saying "yes"?

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Explore Your Way of Learning

Yes, And isn't just a book — it's a masterclass in Business. To help you absorb its lessons in the way that works best for you, we offer five unique learning modes. Whether you're a deep thinker, a fast learner, or a story lover, there's a mode designed to fit your style.

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Top 10 Insights from Yes, And in a Nutshell

Distill Yes, And into rapid-fire memory cues that highlight key principles of candor, teamwork, and creative resilience.

Fun

Yes, And Lessons Told Through 24-Min Stories

Experience Yes, And through vivid storytelling that turns innovation lessons into moments you'll remember and apply.

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Experience Yes, And in your own way.

Ask anything, pick the voice, and co-create insights that truly resonate with you.

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@Matt, YC alum

108

"Reading used to feel like a chore. Now it’s just part of my lifestyle."

@Erin, Investment Banking Associate , NYC

254

"Feels effortless compared to reading. I’ve finished 6 books this month already."

@djmikemoore

"BeFreed turned my guilty doomscrolling into something that feels productive and inspiring."

@Pitiful

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"BeFreed turned my commute into learning time. 20-min podcasts are perfect for finishing books I never had time for."

@SofiaP

"BeFreed replaced my podcast queue. Imagine Spotify for books — that’s it. 🙌"

@Jaded_Falcon

201

"It is great for me to learn something from the book without reading it."

@OojasSalunke

"The themed book list podcasts help me connect ideas across authors—like a guided audio journey."

@Leo, Law Student, UPenn

483

"Makes me feel smarter every time before going to work"

@Cashflowbubu

From Columbia University alumni built in San Francisco

BeFreed Brings Together A Global Community Of 200,000+ Curious Minds

See more on how BeFreed is discussed across the web

"Instead of endless scrolling, I just hit play on BeFreed. It saves me so much time."

@Moemenn

"I never knew where to start with nonfiction—BeFreed’s book lists turned into podcasts gave me a clear path."

@Chloe, Solo founder, LA

117

"Perfect balance between learning and entertainment. Finished ‘Thinking, Fast and Slow’ on my commute this week."

@Raaaaaachelw

"Crazy how much I learned while walking the dog. BeFreed = small habits → big gains."

@Matt, YC alum

108

"Reading used to feel like a chore. Now it’s just part of my lifestyle."

@Erin, Investment Banking Associate , NYC

254

"Feels effortless compared to reading. I’ve finished 6 books this month already."

@djmikemoore

"BeFreed turned my guilty doomscrolling into something that feels productive and inspiring."

@Pitiful

4.5K

"BeFreed turned my commute into learning time. 20-min podcasts are perfect for finishing books I never had time for."

@SofiaP

"BeFreed replaced my podcast queue. Imagine Spotify for books — that’s it. 🙌"

@Jaded_Falcon

201

"It is great for me to learn something from the book without reading it."

@OojasSalunke

"The themed book list podcasts help me connect ideas across authors—like a guided audio journey."

@Leo, Law Student, UPenn

483

"Makes me feel smarter every time before going to work"

@Cashflowbubu

"Instead of endless scrolling, I just hit play on BeFreed. It saves me so much time."

@Moemenn

"I never knew where to start with nonfiction—BeFreed’s book lists turned into podcasts gave me a clear path."

@Chloe, Solo founder, LA

117

"Perfect balance between learning and entertainment. Finished ‘Thinking, Fast and Slow’ on my commute this week."

@Raaaaaachelw

"Crazy how much I learned while walking the dog. BeFreed = small habits → big gains."

@Matt, YC alum

108

"Reading used to feel like a chore. Now it’s just part of my lifestyle."

@Erin, Investment Banking Associate , NYC

254

"Feels effortless compared to reading. I’ve finished 6 books this month already."

@djmikemoore

"BeFreed turned my guilty doomscrolling into something that feels productive and inspiring."

@Pitiful

4.5K

"BeFreed turned my commute into learning time. 20-min podcasts are perfect for finishing books I never had time for."

@SofiaP

"BeFreed replaced my podcast queue. Imagine Spotify for books — that’s it. 🙌"

@Jaded_Falcon

201

"It is great for me to learn something from the book without reading it."

@OojasSalunke

"The themed book list podcasts help me connect ideas across authors—like a guided audio journey."

@Leo, Law Student, UPenn

483

"Makes me feel smarter every time before going to work"

@Cashflowbubu

"Instead of endless scrolling, I just hit play on BeFreed. It saves me so much time."

@Moemenn

"I never knew where to start with nonfiction—BeFreed’s book lists turned into podcasts gave me a clear path."

@Chloe, Solo founder, LA

117

"Perfect balance between learning and entertainment. Finished ‘Thinking, Fast and Slow’ on my commute this week."

@Raaaaaachelw

"Crazy how much I learned while walking the dog. BeFreed = small habits → big gains."

@Matt, YC alum

108

"Reading used to feel like a chore. Now it’s just part of my lifestyle."

@Erin, Investment Banking Associate , NYC

254

"Feels effortless compared to reading. I’ve finished 6 books this month already."

@djmikemoore

"BeFreed turned my guilty doomscrolling into something that feels productive and inspiring."

@Pitiful

4.5K

"BeFreed turned my commute into learning time. 20-min podcasts are perfect for finishing books I never had time for."

@SofiaP

"BeFreed replaced my podcast queue. Imagine Spotify for books — that’s it. 🙌"

@Jaded_Falcon

201

"It is great for me to learn something from the book without reading it."

@OojasSalunke

"The themed book list podcasts help me connect ideas across authors—like a guided audio journey."

@Leo, Law Student, UPenn

483

"Makes me feel smarter every time before going to work"

@Cashflowbubu

1.5K Ratings4.7

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Download This Summary

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Yes, And

Kelly Leonard & Tom Yorton

3.66 (1317 Reviews)

Business

Communication skill

Leadership

Relationship

Overview

Key Takeaways

Author

FAQs

Explore Your Way of Learning

Quick Summary9min

Feel the book through the author's voice

Deep Dive42min

Turn knowledge into engaging, example-rich insights

Flash Card10 insights

Capture key ideas in a flash for fast learning

Fun24min

Enjoy the book in a fun and engaging way

More Like This

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Key Takeaways

Unlocking Creativity Through Improv's "Yes, And" Philosophy

00:00

Imagine standing on stage with no script, no safety net-just you, your partner, and an expectant audience. This is the world of improvisation, where the deceptively simple philosophy of "Yes, And" transforms uncertainty into opportunity. Since 1959, The Second City has been developing this approach, creating not just comedy legends like Tina Fey and Stephen Colbert, but a powerful methodology for creativity and collaboration that has infiltrated boardrooms worldwide. At its essence, "Yes, And" means accepting what's offered and building upon it. When one improviser says, "I've never seen so many stars," their partner might respond, "Things look different up here on the moon." Together, they've created something neither could have planned alone. This principle creates a stark contrast to the "Yes, but" culture dominating most workplaces, where control often trumps creativity. Why do we resist "Yes, And" in business? Because saying "no" feels safe. Rejecting ideas maintains control. But control doesn't guarantee innovation-it's when we embrace uncertainty that breakthroughs happen. Creating this culture requires modeling supportive behavior, giving ideas fair consideration before evaluation, and recognizing that Wikipedia, Linux, and countless other collaborative successes prove the power of building incrementally rather than celebrating solo heroics.

Building Ensembles: Beyond Traditional Teamwork

Co-Creating with Your Audience

Using Comedy to Navigate Change

Embracing Failure as Innovation Fuel

Reimagining Leadership Through Improvisation

Listening: The Foundation of Everything

Explore Your Way of Learning

Quick Summary

Yes, And Summary in 9 Minutes

Break down key ideas from Yes, And into bite-sized takeaways to understand how innovative teams create, collaborate, and grow.

00:00

Flash Card

Top 10 Insights from Yes, And in a Nutshell

Distill Yes, And into rapid-fire memory cues that highlight key principles of candor, teamwork, and creative resilience.

Fun

Yes, And Lessons Told Through 24-Min Stories

Experience Yes, And through vivid storytelling that turns innovation lessons into moments you'll remember and apply.

00:00

Personalize

Experience Yes, And in your own way.

Ask anything, pick the voice, and co-create insights that truly resonate with you.

From Columbia University alumni built in San Francisco

BeFreed Brings Together A Global Community Of 200,000+ Curious Minds

See more on how BeFreed is discussed across the web

"Instead of endless scrolling, I just hit play on BeFreed. It saves me so much time."

@Moemenn

"I never knew where to start with nonfiction—BeFreed’s book lists turned into podcasts gave me a clear path."

@Chloe, Solo founder, LA

117

"Perfect balance between learning and entertainment. Finished ‘Thinking, Fast and Slow’ on my commute this week."

@Raaaaaachelw

"Crazy how much I learned while walking the dog. BeFreed = small habits → big gains."

@Matt, YC alum

108

"Reading used to feel like a chore. Now it’s just part of my lifestyle."

@Erin, Investment Banking Associate , NYC

254

"Feels effortless compared to reading. I’ve finished 6 books this month already."

@djmikemoore

"BeFreed turned my guilty doomscrolling into something that feels productive and inspiring."

@Pitiful

4.5K

"BeFreed turned my commute into learning time. 20-min podcasts are perfect for finishing books I never had time for."

@SofiaP

"BeFreed replaced my podcast queue. Imagine Spotify for books — that’s it. 🙌"

@Jaded_Falcon

201

"It is great for me to learn something from the book without reading it."

@OojasSalunke

"The themed book list podcasts help me connect ideas across authors—like a guided audio journey."

@Leo, Law Student, UPenn

483

"Makes me feel smarter every time before going to work"

@Cashflowbubu

From Columbia University alumni built in San Francisco

BeFreed Brings Together A Global Community Of 200,000+ Curious Minds

See more on how BeFreed is discussed across the web

"Instead of endless scrolling, I just hit play on BeFreed. It saves me so much time."

@Moemenn

"I never knew where to start with nonfiction—BeFreed’s book lists turned into podcasts gave me a clear path."

@Chloe, Solo founder, LA

117

"Perfect balance between learning and entertainment. Finished ‘Thinking, Fast and Slow’ on my commute this week."

@Raaaaaachelw

"Crazy how much I learned while walking the dog. BeFreed = small habits → big gains."

@Matt, YC alum

108

"Reading used to feel like a chore. Now it’s just part of my lifestyle."

@Erin, Investment Banking Associate , NYC

254

"Feels effortless compared to reading. I’ve finished 6 books this month already."

@djmikemoore

"BeFreed turned my guilty doomscrolling into something that feels productive and inspiring."

@Pitiful

4.5K

"BeFreed turned my commute into learning time. 20-min podcasts are perfect for finishing books I never had time for."

@SofiaP

"BeFreed replaced my podcast queue. Imagine Spotify for books — that’s it. 🙌"

@Jaded_Falcon

201

"It is great for me to learn something from the book without reading it."

@OojasSalunke

"The themed book list podcasts help me connect ideas across authors—like a guided audio journey."

@Leo, Law Student, UPenn

483

"Makes me feel smarter every time before going to work"

@Cashflowbubu

"Instead of endless scrolling, I just hit play on BeFreed. It saves me so much time."

@Moemenn

"I never knew where to start with nonfiction—BeFreed’s book lists turned into podcasts gave me a clear path."

@Chloe, Solo founder, LA

117

"Perfect balance between learning and entertainment. Finished ‘Thinking, Fast and Slow’ on my commute this week."

@Raaaaaachelw

"Crazy how much I learned while walking the dog. BeFreed = small habits → big gains."

@Matt, YC alum

108

"Reading used to feel like a chore. Now it’s just part of my lifestyle."

@Erin, Investment Banking Associate , NYC

254

"Feels effortless compared to reading. I’ve finished 6 books this month already."

@djmikemoore

"BeFreed turned my guilty doomscrolling into something that feels productive and inspiring."

@Pitiful

4.5K

"BeFreed turned my commute into learning time. 20-min podcasts are perfect for finishing books I never had time for."

@SofiaP

"BeFreed replaced my podcast queue. Imagine Spotify for books — that’s it. 🙌"

@Jaded_Falcon

201

"It is great for me to learn something from the book without reading it."

@OojasSalunke

"The themed book list podcasts help me connect ideas across authors—like a guided audio journey."

@Leo, Law Student, UPenn

483

"Makes me feel smarter every time before going to work"

@Cashflowbubu

"Instead of endless scrolling, I just hit play on BeFreed. It saves me so much time."

@Moemenn

"I never knew where to start with nonfiction—BeFreed’s book lists turned into podcasts gave me a clear path."

@Chloe, Solo founder, LA

117

"Perfect balance between learning and entertainment. Finished ‘Thinking, Fast and Slow’ on my commute this week."

@Raaaaaachelw

"Crazy how much I learned while walking the dog. BeFreed = small habits → big gains."

@Matt, YC alum

108

"Reading used to feel like a chore. Now it’s just part of my lifestyle."

@Erin, Investment Banking Associate , NYC

254

"Feels effortless compared to reading. I’ve finished 6 books this month already."

@djmikemoore

"BeFreed turned my guilty doomscrolling into something that feels productive and inspiring."

@Pitiful

4.5K

"BeFreed turned my commute into learning time. 20-min podcasts are perfect for finishing books I never had time for."

@SofiaP

"BeFreed replaced my podcast queue. Imagine Spotify for books — that’s it. 🙌"

@Jaded_Falcon

201

"It is great for me to learn something from the book without reading it."

@OojasSalunke

"The themed book list podcasts help me connect ideas across authors—like a guided audio journey."

@Leo, Law Student, UPenn

483

"Makes me feel smarter every time before going to work"

@Cashflowbubu

1.5K Ratings4.7

Start your learning journey, now

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More Like This

Key Takeaways

Unlocking Creativity Through Improv's "Yes, And" Philosophy

Building Ensembles: Beyond Traditional Teamwork

Co-Creating with Your Audience

Using Comedy to Navigate Change

Embracing Failure as Innovation Fuel

Reimagining Leadership Through Improvisation

Listening: The Foundation of Everything

Quick Summary Mode - Read or listen to Yes, And Summary in 9 Minutes

Flash Card Mode - Top 10 Insights from Yes, And in a Nutshell

Fun Mode - Yes, And Lessons Told Through 24-Min Stories

Personalize Mode - Read or listen to Yes, And Summary in 0 Minutes

Download Yes, And PDF

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More Like This

Key Takeaways

Unlocking Creativity Through Improv's "Yes, And" Philosophy

Building Ensembles: Beyond Traditional Teamwork

Co-Creating with Your Audience

Using Comedy to Navigate Change

Embracing Failure as Innovation Fuel

Reimagining Leadership Through Improvisation

Listening: The Foundation of Everything