I need a pony
Goal
create connection between 2 or 3 participants
active listening
create clarity in your own needs and desires
Instructions
People are in a paired conversation that starts with "I need a pony." The first player says 3 statements in quick succession. Player 2 then repeats the last statement and says 2 more. Back and forth for 5 minutes.
Player 1 - "I need a pony. I need rainbow cloud to swing on. I need fountains of chocolate"
Player 2 - "I need fountains of chocolate. I need luggage made of chocolate. I need a jet to travel!"
etc.
Variations
Lead the first round encouraging participants to stay entirely in the imaginary fantastical realm. This will create a big lift of positive energy and possibilities.
Experiment with different variations of sentence starters and how they affect the flow of the conversation and what shows up for people.
I want
I'd love
I wish
I wonder
I am
Background
Learned from Toby Butterfield, an applied-improv based virtual facilitator.
Author
I help teams connect, collaborate, and perform at their best in both virtual and in-person environments. As an executive and leadership coach, I design highly engaging experiences where people can think together, navigate challenges, and strengthen the way they work. With a background in leadership coaching, facilitation, and applied improvisation, I create interactive retreats, conferences, and networking events that energize participants and create lasting impact. My work creates the conditions for psychological safety, honest communication, and deep collaboration, allowing teams to build trust, navigate challenges, and achieve meaningful results together. I am deeply committed to mission-driven organizations. As a board member of the International Applied Improvisation Network, I partner with nonprofit and social justice leaders to help their teams thrive in fast-changing environments.
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