Karen Hough

Karen Hough, Founder & CEO of ImprovEdge is a #1 Amazon bestselling author, contributor to the Huffington Post and recipient of the Silver Stevie International Award for Most Innovative Company of the Year as well as the Athena PowerLink Award for outstanding woman-owned business and the Outstanding Women award from the WNBA’s Indiana Fever. Karen’s first bestselling book, “The Improvisation Edge” was followed by her award-winning second book, “Be the Best Bad Presenter Ever” both published by Berrett-Koehler. Her new book on improvisation in change management and innovation, “Go with It: Embrace the Unexpected to Drive Change,” was published by the Association for Talent Development.  

A graduate of Yale University, Karen’s first life was as a professional improviser and actor. She trained with Chicago’s Second City, did over 100 theatrical productions, and was featured in radio, TV, and film. She lived a second life as a successful executive in network engineering. Finally, she became an entrepreneur. She is a Certified Speaking Professional and has presented to audiences of thousands in the US and internationally.

Karen is a #1 Amazon bestselling author, contributor to the Huffington Post and recipient of the Silver Stevie International Award for Most Innovative Company of the Year as well as the Athena PowerLink Award for outstanding woman-owned business and the Outstanding Women award from the WNBA’s Indiana Fever. Karen’s first bestselling book, “The Improvisation Edge” was followed by her award-winning second book, “Be the Best Bad Presenter Ever” both published by Berrett-Koehler. Her new book on improvisation in change management and innovation, “Go with It: Embrace the Unexpected to Drive Change,” was published by the Association for Talent Development.  

A graduate of Yale University, Karen’s first life was as a professional improviser and actor. She trained with Chicago’s Second City, did over 100 theatrical productions, and was featured in radio, TV, and film. She lived a second life as a successful executive in network engineering. Finally, she became an entrepreneur. She is a Certified Speaking Professional and has presented to audiences of thousands in the US and internationally.