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 lead a team that helps multi-stakeholder groups tackle high-stakes, complex work with clarity and connection. We design and guide strategic planning sessions, workshops, retreats, and conferences where people think well together, make sound decisions, and take coordinated action. Our team is trained in improvisational theater, and as active members of the International Applied Improvisation Network, we bring adaptable, creative methods that build trust, surface essential perspectives, and keep momentum strong. We also share what we know, offering facilitator training that blends inclusive process design with the flexibility and presence of improv.
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