The Obstacle is the Opportunity: Enhancing Leadership through Improv

About Timmy & Mike

Dr. Michael Smith is a physician, educator, and communication expert who believes that what happens between people is just as important as what happens in a chart. Board-certified in Internal Medicine, Mike blends clinical insight with a passion for teaching that has made him a trusted voice in medical communication, team dynamics, and human-centered care.

He co-founded Healthcare Improv with longtime collaborator Timmy Tamisiea, bringing improvisational principles into clinical and corporate environments to help people and  teams communicate with clarity, compassion, and a little less chaos. Mike has led workshops for hospitals, universities, residency programs, and professional organizations, offering practical, research-informed tools that help people connect, adapt, and collaborate under pressure.

Mike is committed to building healthier relationships in healthcare and beyond — one “Yes, and…” at a time.

Timmy Tamisiea is an improviser, facilitator, and leadership educator who believes the fastest way to stronger teams is through play. He began his career in entertainment as a performer, writer, and director, where he learned to think on his feet, listen like it matters, and read a room in seconds — skills he now brings to leaders and teams navigating real-world pressure.

He is the Executive Director of Launch Leadership, helping young people build confidence, communication skills, and practical leadership habits that stick. Timmy also co-founded Healthcare Improv with longtime collaborator Dr. Michael Smith, turning improvisational principles into tools for clearer communication, better teamwork, and more human-centered leadership. He has led highly interactive workshops for healthcare teams, nonprofits, educators, and corporate groups, helping people build trust, adapt quickly, and collaborate with less friction and more impact.

Timmy’s work focuses on helping people show up fully, support each other boldly, and do meaningful work without losing their humanity in the process — and occasionally reminding adults that “Yes, and” is more effective than “Well, actually.”