Episode 3: Picking Our People & the Power of Creative Outlets with Jordan Hirsch
The two of us performing improv together
In this special episode, Amanda welcomes her husband, Jordan Hirsch, to the Mighty Forces podcast. Together, they trace the winding path of their relationship—from high school drama club crushes and early fandom litmus tests (The Simpsons! Robert Altman’s The Player!) to co-parenting, co-creating, and supporting each other’s creative lives. Jordan shares how horror movies, improv, and music have shaped his identity, how creativity energizes him, and why February Album Writing Month (FAWM) has been a lifeline. He and Amanda reflect on the difference between finding meaning in the work we do versus through the relationships we create with the people with whom we work, and how their different perspectives have influenced each other. The conversation closes with Jordan’s powerful reminder about naming what’s true—and an unlikely recommendation for one of the “best worst” horror films ever made. It’s a warm, funny, and deeply human conversation between two people who know each other best—and who both give a damn.
What we talk about
Amanda and Jordan’s origin story: from high school drama club to marriage
Early crushes, fandoms, and the near-dealbreaker of The Simpsons
Pop culture as a filter for identity and friendships
Soap operas, Santa Barbara, and Amanda’s lifelong obsession with stories
Differing views on the meaning of meaningful work
Jordan’s improv years in DC and New York, including Gas Station Horror and Vox Pop
Collaborating on music-making across states and decades-long friendships
Balancing paid work, parenting, and creativity
Jordan’s closing wisdom: The power of naming what’s true
Mentioned in the episode
About Jordan Hirsch
Jordan in his native habitat, i.e. his office/music studio/horror movie paraphernalia lair
Jordan Hirsch is a presentation and leadership coach, a playful facilitator, an improviser, a musician, a dad, a cyclist, a horror movie enthusiast, and the very lucky husband* of Amanda Hirsch.
Through his coaching work, Jordan helps leaders communicate with authentic confidence and stretch into new roles. He helps teams work together better by teaching them how to play together. And he always makes sure to bring the fun, especially when helping his clients tackle hard challenges. He also bakes a mean sourdough.
*Written by Jordan, not Amanda’s attempt at self-aggrandizement
Jordan’s give-a-damn shout-out to an organization he wishes more people knew about:
The Global Play Brigade, an international community of volunteer play and performance activists who believe that integrating play – improvisation tools – into everyday life and work is vital for creating hope, possibility, emotional well-being, and development. Global Play Brigade has members from 100 countries, with their strongest presence in Argentina, Brazil, the United States, Nigeria, India, and China.
