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COLLABORATION Few joys compare with that of a well-performing team. Together, we create what we could not alone. |
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MINDFULNESS We apply curiosity and kindness to every inquiry, every relationship, and every moment. We’re here. Now. |
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PLAY Great stories—and great partnerships—emerge when we engage the fun and humor in any challenge we face. |
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INTEGRITY Congruence from us makes for better decisions for you. If we’re not speaking truthfully, what’s the point? |
Mindfulness teacher. Applied improvisor. Presence coach.
Speaker. Author. Podcaster.
A trailblazer at the crossroads of mindfulness, improvisation and personal presence and the founder of ANIMA Learning, Ted DesMaisons has been synthesizing innovative approaches to collaborative learning for over 30 years.
Drawing on his experience at Stanford Business and Harvard Divinity Schools, Ted delivers dynamic experiences that leave his audiences feeling grounded, confident, and eager for effective collaboration. He presents with clarity and creativity alike, combining real-world relevance with deep personal meaning.
He is one of fewer than 40 master instructors chosen for intensive training with renowned UK acting, voice and presence coach Patsy Rodenburg. He completed his mindfulness teacher training with Jon Kabat-Zinn and others at the UMass Center for Mindfulness and has studied, taught and performed improvisation internationally, including with BATS Improv in San Francisco and Loose Moose Theater in Calgary, Alberta.
Currently, Ted’s courses through Stanford University’s Continuing Studies program draw students from around the world and his five-star-rated Monster Baby Podcast (“A curious romp through the worlds of mindfulness and improvisation”) reaches listeners in more than 55 countries. His new book, Playful Mindfulness, has earned steady acclaim for its clarity, relevance, and humor..
He lives a 7-minute walk from the stunning coastline of Daly City, California, and shares his home with Luna and Marley, two quirky and charismatic spotted Ocicats.
Formal Education
M.Th., Harvard Divinity School
Education, Ritual, and Spirituality
M.B.A., Stanford University Graduate School of Business
Creativity and Leadership
A.B., Stanford University
Ordination, One Spirit Interfaith Seminary
Testimonials
“Your deft, articulate, and playful mastery is what the world needs, a gift of such glorious opening and unwrapping for audiences large and small…This is the stuff of transformation.”
—Rob R., Drama Department Chair, Phillips Exeter Academy
“Ted’s authentic presence, steady patience, playful humor, and skillful facilitation make important conversations possible.”
—Jayne G., LCSW, co-founder of Mindful Harlem, New York City
“Ted is a great improvisor and an incredibly patient, on-the-spot, motivating teacher.”
—Armando K., CEO, Credilikeme, Mexico City
“This workshop was everything I hoped for and much more. You created a safe environment for us to play and did so many things to foster our creativity.”
—Eric H., Esq., San Francisco
“Ted is an awesome teacher! Patient, kind, and fun; he brought out a sparkle in all of us.”
—Jen C., self-employed creative, San Francisco
“Ted is wonderful. He created a perfect space for us to be confident about everything. Very positive and energetic and FUN. He sets a perfect example to follow; everyone should be as happy as he is and transmit it to others like he does.”
—Grace M., Mexico City
