GIlda Radner Archives - Compliance Podcast Network

Tom and Ronnie continue their six-part series highlighting the role of improv in compliance. This series links improv lessons to corporate compliance and some of the key tools and strategies Ronnie has brought from his former world of improv to the corporate compliance communications realm. In today’s Improv & Compliance Lesson 5, the lesson focuses on “Truth in Comedy,” linking improv and comedy to ethics and compliance.

Tom and Ronnie begin with Gilda Radner’s quote, “Humor is just truth only faster.” Feldman argues comedy works because it exposes shared truths, and compliance programs build credibility by being authentic about real issues rather than pretending everything is fine. He recommends sharing speak-up and reporting trends, anonymized investigation outcomes, culture survey results, and what happens after reports to build trust. Feldman suggests using true stories—internal case studies or news examples—told in engaging formats (newsletters, podcasts, interviews, videos, reenactments) to create teachable moments, stressing “don’t be boring.” They conclude that truthful, interesting communication and authenticity increase engagement, strengthen training, and improve psychological safety and speak-up culture.

Resources:

Ronnie

Ronnie Feldman (LinkedIn)
Learnings & Entertainments (LinkedIn)
Ronnie Feldman (Twitter)
Learnings & Entertainments (Website)
Compliance Confessions – inspired by “Mean Tweets,” these 90-second commercials address misconceptions and excuses to promote a speak up culture and the E&C team as positive and helpful.
E&C Training Jams – a soulful singer banters with ethics & compliance explaining policies, sharing examples, and debunking excuses.
Tales from the Hotline – Real speak up-themed stories about workplace behavior gone wrong.
Workplace Tonight Show! – E&C meets SNL Weekend Update explaining corporate risk topics and why employees should care.
60-Second Communication & Awareness Shorts – A variety of short, customizable, music and multimedia, quick-hitter “commercials” promoting integrity, compliance, speaking up, and the E&C team as helpful advisors and coaches.
Custom Live & Digital Programing – Custom creative programming that balances the seriousness of the subject matter with a more engaging delivery. After all, you can’t bore people into learning.