Podcasts about yby20

This week on Yes But Why, I present my interview with Kasia Chmara. Kasia Chmara is an improviser, an actress and a theater teacher in Bydgoszcz, Poland. She completed her studies at the International Film, Theatre and TV School in Lodz. She has been performing improv for almost a decade, but she's been teaching theatre since 1998. Kasia is an artistic coordinator of “Improdrom,” the International Improv Festival in Bydgoszcz, Poland. She regularly leads theatre and improvisation workshops in Bydgoszcz, Gdańsk, Dublin, Bengaluru, Strasburg, Lubljana, Riga, and Athens. Kasia performs with numerous improv groups, such as “wymyWammy,” “Which is Which,” and “The Allnighters.” She is also a member of the European improv collective, Ohana. Currently, she is also an actress with the Kameralny Theatre in Bydgoszcz, Poland.In our interview, Kasia tells me about her lifelong pursuit to be an actress.Kasia dedicated her life to acting when she was only 6 years old. We discuss all the hard work that has gone into her schooling – all the effort it took to get into the International Film, Theatre and TV School and all the work she put in while she was there. She shares with me the uphill battle of auditions and busking that followed.Kasia continues to work on her craft! She is currently working on her PhD in Creating Character on script play through improvisation techniques. We talk of our mutual love for improv and how Kasia connected to the artform through musical improv. There was no theater in her city, so Kasia decided to start her own community called Improvart Katarzyna Chmara. She now hosts theatre and improvisation workshops in Bydgoszcz and beyond. We talk about connecting with the larger international improv community over Zoom during the pandemic and how much that opened our eyes to the larger world of improv. Support Kasia Chmara by taking workshops with Improvart Katarzyna Chmara and by keeping up with her work through the European improv collective, Ohana. Yes But Why Podcast is a proud member of the HC Universal Network family of podcasts. Visit us at HCUniversalNetwork.com to join in on the fun. #YesButWhy #Podcast #HCUniversalNetworkThis episode of Yes But Why podcast is sponsored by audible - get your FREE audiobook download and your 30 day free trial at http://www.audibletrial.com/YESBUTWHY. This episode of Yes But Why is also sponsored by PodcastCadet.com. Go to PodcastCadet.com to connect with us so we can help you with your podcast! Save money by putting in offer code YBY20 to get 20% off the first service or workshop you buy!(production notes: recorded zoom meeting via Rodecaster on 6/15/2022; posted on 8/15/2022)

This week on Yes But Why, I interviewed improviser and creative, Lisa Michelle Jackson. Lisa Michelle Jackson is an improv comedian, visual artist, dancer, and writer based in Austin, Texas. Lisa has been improvising since 2007 and has worked as a performer, teacher, coach and director. With B. Iden Payne awards and nominations, she has performed in an array of shows and troupes and has traveled to perform across the U.S. As a visual artist, Lisa is a naturalist and uses organic processes and materials to create her artwork. As a dancer, her primary dance modalities are hip hop, contemporary, and Afro-Caribbean styles. She also writes long form fiction, short stories, poetry, and essay.In our conversation, we started off discussing prisons and our culture of competition (like, immediately, we got deep…I started the track at like 5 minutes in). Then we get into improv and how better the world would be if we obeyed improv rules in the real world. Lisa shared some valuable advice she received about how “life is a series of changing relationships” and how she regularly uses that perspective to navigate the world. We talk about some rough times we've been through and how improv performance as well as the support of our community got us through. Lisa talks about mistakes as gifts and turning a bad situation into something good. Support Lisa Michelle Jackson by seeing her perform at The Hideout Theater as well as various international online improv jams!Yes But Why Podcast is a proud member of the HC Universal Network family of podcasts. Visit us at HCUniversalNetwork.com to join in on the fun. #YesButWhy #Podcast #HCUniversalNetworkThis episode of Yes But Why podcast is sponsored by audible - get your FREE audiobook download and your 30 day free trial at http://www.audibletrial.com/YESBUTWHY. This episode of Yes But Why is also sponsored by PodcastCadet.com. Go to PodcastCadet.com to connect with us so we can help you with your podcast! Save money by putting in offer code YBY20 to get 20% off the first service or workshop you buy!(production notes: recorded zoom meeting via Rodecaster on 5/25/2022; posted on 5/30/2022)

This week on Yes But Why, I interviewed improviser and creative, Lisa Michelle Jackson. Lisa Michelle Jackson is an improv comedian, visual artist, dancer, and writer based in Austin, Texas. Lisa has been improvising since 2007 and has worked as a performer, teacher, coach and director. With B. Iden Payne awards and nominations, she has performed in an array of shows and troupes and has traveled to perform across the U.S. As a visual artist, Lisa is a naturalist and uses organic processes and materials to create her artwork. As a dancer, her primary dance modalities are hip hop, contemporary, and Afro-Caribbean styles. She also writes long form fiction, short stories, poetry, and essay. In our conversation, we started off discussing prisons and our culture of competition (like, immediately, we got deep…I started the track at like 5 minutes in). Then we get into improv and how better the world would be if we obeyed improv rules in the real world. Lisa shared some valuable advice she received about how “life is a series of changing relationships” and how she regularly uses that perspective to navigate the world. We talk about some rough times we've been through and how improv performance as well as the support of our community got us through. Lisa talks about mistakes as gifts and turning a bad situation into something good. Support Lisa Michelle Jackson by seeing her perform at The Hideout Theater as well as various international online improv jams! Yes But Why Podcast is a proud member of the HC Universal Network family of podcasts. Visit us at HCUniversalNetwork.com to join in on the fun. #YesButWhy #Podcast #HCUniversalNetwork This episode of Yes But Why podcast is sponsored by audible - get your FREE audiobook download and your 30 day free trial at http://www.audibletrial.com/YESBUTWHY. This episode of Yes But Why is also sponsored by PodcastCadet.com. Go to PodcastCadet.com to connect with us so we can help you with your podcast! Save money by putting in offer code YBY20 to get 20% off the first service or workshop you buy! (production notes: recorded zoom meeting via Rodecaster on 5/25/2022; posted on 5/30/2022)

This week on Yes But Why, I interviewed improviser and creative, Lisa Michelle Jackson. Lisa Michelle Jackson is an improv comedian, visual artist, dancer, and writer based in Austin, Texas. Lisa has been improvising since 2007 and has worked as a performer, teacher, coach and director. With B. Iden Payne awards and nominations, she has performed in an array of shows and troupes and has traveled to perform across the U.S. As a visual artist, Lisa is a naturalist and uses organic processes and materials to create her artwork. As a dancer, her primary dance modalities are hip hop, contemporary, and Afro-Caribbean styles. She also writes long form fiction, short stories, poetry, and essay. In our conversation, we started off discussing prisons and our culture of competition (like, immediately, we got deep…I started the track at like 5 minutes in). Then we get into improv and how better the world would be if we obeyed improv rules in the real world. Lisa shared some valuable advice she received about how “life is a series of changing relationships” and how she regularly uses that perspective to navigate the world. We talk about some rough times we've been through and how improv performance as well as the support of our community got us through. Lisa talks about mistakes as gifts and turning a bad situation into something good. Support Lisa Michelle Jackson by seeing her perform at The Hideout Theater as well as various international online improv jams! Yes But Why Podcast is a proud member of the HC Universal Network family of podcasts. Visit us at HCUniversalNetwork.com to join in on the fun. #YesButWhy #Podcast #HCUniversalNetwork This episode of Yes But Why podcast is sponsored by audible - get your FREE audiobook download and your 30 day free trial at http://www.audibletrial.com/YESBUTWHY. This episode of Yes But Why is also sponsored by PodcastCadet.com. Go to PodcastCadet.com to connect with us so we can help you with your podcast! Save money by putting in offer code YBY20 to get 20% off the first service or workshop you buy! (production notes: recorded zoom meeting via Rodecaster on 5/25/2022; posted on 5/30/2022)

This week on Yes But Why, I interviewed writer and actor, Pete Parsons. Pete Parsons is an entertainer who currently lives in Austin Texas. A graduate of The Theater School at DePaul University, Pete learned the most about what it takes to be an artist from the Chicago improv theaters and their classes and communities. These days, you can catch him at the Fallout Theater in downtown Austin. Every Saturday night there, you can see Pete hosting Pioneers, an improv show that features a new cast of improvisers each week. In our conversation, we talk about how living a theatrical life was a forgone conclusion in Pete's mind. Even from a very young age, he knew that he would be a performer. And luckily, he grew up in a town with a pretty amazing children's theater. So Pete has been onstage for his whole life. We talk about the pandemic and how all the chaos really sapped Pete's creativity. There was just so much going on. Some people really dug into online content creation but that's not Pete's thing. (That is not to say that he doesn't curate some pretty fun Instagram accounts: @littlehighbear and @wowsecretmountain.) But onstage is the place to be and so when Fallout reopened, Pete jumped at the chance to host Pioneers. I know how it can be. Hosting a show is just enough action to keep your mind busy. Pete expressed to me that he's still very much in the midst of figuring out where his career will take him. We talk about options. We discuss ideas. Pete is a great artist and he has reinvented himself before and when he decides what his next big thing will be, I am sure it will be glorious. Pete is a really cool dude. In the press kit he sent me, this is what he sent about supporting him: “If you would like to support Pete Parsons, check out Pioneers or his comic "Little High Bear" but if you want to have a bigger impact, donate to The Innocence Project.” Awesome. Pete also sent links to his upcoming shows and you should check them out because he is MAGIC onstage!What A CharacterA Character Showcase Featuring Austin's Funniest SketchFourth Wednesdays at 8pm at Fallout Theater.Next show: Wednesday, May 25, 2022 at 9:30 pmhttps://falloutcomedy.com/shows/what-a-character-2/PioneersNew world. New Cast. New Laughs.Every Saturday at 8:30pm at Fallout Theater.Next Show: Saturday, May 28, 2022 at 8:30 pmhttps://falloutcomedy.com/shows/the-pioneers-2/ Yes But Why Podcast is a proud member of the HC Universal Network family of podcasts. Visit us at HCUniversalNetwork.com to join in on the fun. #YesButWhy #Podcast #HCUniversalNetworkThis episode of Yes But Why podcast is sponsored by audible - get your FREE audiobook download and your 30 day free trial at http://www.audibletrial.com/YESBUTWHY. This episode of Yes But Why is also sponsored by PodcastCadet.com. Go to PodcastCadet.com to connect with us so we can help you with your podcast! Save money by putting in offer code YBY20 to get 20% off the first service or workshop you buy!(production notes: recorded zoom meeting via Rodecaster on 5/16/2022; posted on 5/23/2022)

This week on Yes But Why, I interviewed writer and actor, Pete Parsons. Pete Parsons is an entertainer who currently lives in Austin Texas. A graduate of The Theater School at DePaul University, Pete learned the most about what it takes to be an artist from the Chicago improv theaters and their classes and communities. These days, you can catch him at the Fallout Theater in downtown Austin. Every Saturday night there, you can see Pete hosting Pioneers, an improv show that features a new cast of improvisers each week. In our conversation, we talk about how living a theatrical life was a forgone conclusion in Pete's mind. Even from a very young age, he knew that he would be a performer. And luckily, he grew up in a town with a pretty amazing children's theater. So Pete has been onstage for his whole life. We talk about the pandemic and how all the chaos really sapped Pete's creativity. There was just so much going on. Some people really dug into online content creation but that's not Pete's thing. (That is not to say that he doesn't curate some pretty fun Instagram accounts: @littlehighbear and @wowsecretmountain.) But onstage is the place to be and so when Fallout reopened, Pete jumped at the chance to host Pioneers. I know how it can be. Hosting a show is just enough action to keep your mind busy. Pete expressed to me that he's still very much in the midst of figuring out where his career will take him. We talk about options. We discuss ideas. Pete is a great artist and he has reinvented himself before and when he decides what his next big thing will be, I am sure it will be glorious. Pete is a really cool dude. In the press kit he sent me, this is what he sent about supporting him: “If you would like to support Pete Parsons, check out Pioneers or his comic "Little High Bear" but if you want to have a bigger impact, donate to The Innocence Project.” Awesome. Pete also sent links to his upcoming shows and you should check them out because he is MAGIC onstage! What A Character A Character Showcase Featuring Austin's Funniest Sketch Fourth Wednesdays at 8pm at Fallout Theater. Next show: Wednesday, May 25, 2022 at 9:30 pm https://falloutcomedy.com/shows/what-a-character-2/ Pioneers New world. New Cast. New Laughs. Every Saturday at 8:30pm at Fallout Theater. Next Show: Saturday, May 28, 2022 at 8:30 pm https://falloutcomedy.com/shows/the-pioneers-2/ Yes But Why Podcast is a proud member of the HC Universal Network family of podcasts. Visit us at HCUniversalNetwork.com to join in on the fun. #YesButWhy #Podcast #HCUniversalNetwork This episode of Yes But Why podcast is sponsored by audible - get your FREE audiobook download and your 30 day free trial at http://www.audibletrial.com/YESBUTWHY. This episode of Yes But Why is also sponsored by PodcastCadet.com. Go to PodcastCadet.com to connect with us so we can help you with your podcast! Save money by putting in offer code YBY20 to get 20% off the first service or workshop you buy! (production notes: recorded zoom meeting via Rodecaster on 5/16/2022; posted on 5/23/2022)

This week on Yes But Why, I interviewed writer and actor, Pete Parsons. Pete Parsons is an entertainer who currently lives in Austin Texas. A graduate of The Theater School at DePaul University, Pete learned the most about what it takes to be an artist from the Chicago improv theaters and their classes and communities. These days, you can catch him at the Fallout Theater in downtown Austin. Every Saturday night there, you can see Pete hosting Pioneers, an improv show that features a new cast of improvisers each week. In our conversation, we talk about how living a theatrical life was a forgone conclusion in Pete's mind. Even from a very young age, he knew that he would be a performer. And luckily, he grew up in a town with a pretty amazing children's theater. So Pete has been onstage for his whole life. We talk about the pandemic and how all the chaos really sapped Pete's creativity. There was just so much going on. Some people really dug into online content creation but that's not Pete's thing. (That is not to say that he doesn't curate some pretty fun Instagram accounts: @littlehighbear and @wowsecretmountain.) But onstage is the place to be and so when Fallout reopened, Pete jumped at the chance to host Pioneers. I know how it can be. Hosting a show is just enough action to keep your mind busy. Pete expressed to me that he's still very much in the midst of figuring out where his career will take him. We talk about options. We discuss ideas. Pete is a great artist and he has reinvented himself before and when he decides what his next big thing will be, I am sure it will be glorious. Pete is a really cool dude. In the press kit he sent me, this is what he sent about supporting him: “If you would like to support Pete Parsons, check out Pioneers or his comic "Little High Bear" but if you want to have a bigger impact, donate to The Innocence Project.” Awesome. Pete also sent links to his upcoming shows and you should check them out because he is MAGIC onstage! What A Character A Character Showcase Featuring Austin's Funniest Sketch Fourth Wednesdays at 8pm at Fallout Theater. Next show: Wednesday, May 25, 2022 at 9:30 pm https://falloutcomedy.com/shows/what-a-character-2/ Pioneers New world. New Cast. New Laughs. Every Saturday at 8:30pm at Fallout Theater. Next Show: Saturday, May 28, 2022 at 8:30 pm https://falloutcomedy.com/shows/the-pioneers-2/ Yes But Why Podcast is a proud member of the HC Universal Network family of podcasts. Visit us at HCUniversalNetwork.com to join in on the fun. #YesButWhy #Podcast #HCUniversalNetwork This episode of Yes But Why podcast is sponsored by audible - get your FREE audiobook download and your 30 day free trial at http://www.audibletrial.com/YESBUTWHY. This episode of Yes But Why is also sponsored by PodcastCadet.com. Go to PodcastCadet.com to connect with us so we can help you with your podcast! Save money by putting in offer code YBY20 to get 20% off the first service or workshop you buy! (production notes: recorded zoom meeting via Rodecaster on 5/16/2022; posted on 5/23/2022)

This week on Yes But Why, I interviewed emcee/beatboxer, David “BS” Bradshaw about his love for performing freestyle rap and teaching workshops. David "BS" Bradshaw has been emceeing and beatboxing in NYC for the past decade. His primary focus the last five years has been refining his craft as an artist- educator and programming specialist. He has toured regionally, performed at the Apollo, been featured on BET's 106&Park, and The Today Show. He's collaborated on hip-hop based team-building and professional development seminars with entities like Facebook, Nikon, Toyota, the Museum of Street Art, BMW Foundation, Carnegie Hall, and Lavelle School for the Blind. BS is a BEAT Global T3 certified instructor with background as a Spanish Dual Language teacher. He currently facilitates workshops for learners of all ages and abilities in freestyle rhyming, songwriting, and beatboxing, including incarcerated youth and special needs populations. You can find BS teaching at Freestyle Love Supreme's Rap Academy, his own Freestyle Fitness and Beatbox Express workshops, or at a place of warm gathering in your community. This was such a lovely conversation with BS. He is such a joyful person. We talked about becoming creative out of defiance. BS shared moments in his life when he was forced to face his individualism and when he decided to embrace it rather than give in to the bullies. David “BS” Bradshaw is an artist that has the kind of charm and determination that will keep him afloat through this creative life. He told me his mother's mantra, “You win some, you learn some.” And I couldn't agree more! Having a good attitude through tough times can make all the difference. BS told me of his recent development as an artist. He had been active in the performing all the time / producing albums lifestyle before the pandemic. But when major changes disrupted this path, BS pivoted and used his skills to develop online classes spreading the joy of freestyle rap to the world. He spoke of his workshop attendees as his friends, his community. BS is building a strong, supportive community with Freestyle Fitness! Support David “BS” Bradshaw by listening to his music or by taking a workshop with him! Join the party at: trustBS.com/classes Yes But Why Podcast is a proud member of the HC Universal Network family of podcasts. Visit us at HCUniversalNetwork.com to join in on the fun. #YesButWhy #Podcast #HCUniversalNetwork This episode of Yes But Why podcast is sponsored by audible - get your FREE audiobook download and your 30 day free trial at http://www.audibletrial.com/YESBUTWHY. This episode of Yes But Why is also sponsored by PodcastCadet.com. Go to PodcastCadet.com to connect with us so we can help you with your podcast! Save money by putting in offer code YBY20 to get 20% off the first service or workshop you buy! (production notes: recorded zoom meeting via Rodecaster on 4/27/2022; posted on 5/16/2022)

This week on Yes But Why, I interviewed emcee/beatboxer, David “BS” Bradshaw about his love for performing freestyle rap and teaching workshops. David "BS" Bradshaw has been emceeing and beatboxing in NYC for the past decade. His primary focus the last five years has been refining his craft as an artist- educator and programming specialist.He has toured regionally, performed at the Apollo, been featured on BET's 106&Park, and The Today Show. He's collaborated on hip-hop based team-building and professional development seminars with entities like Facebook, Nikon, Toyota, the Museum of Street Art, BMW Foundation, Carnegie Hall, and Lavelle School for the Blind.BS is a BEAT Global T3 certified instructor with background as a Spanish Dual Language teacher. He currently facilitates workshops for learners of all ages and abilities in freestyle rhyming, songwriting, and beatboxing, including incarcerated youth and special needs populations. You can find BS teaching at Freestyle Love Supreme's Rap Academy, his own Freestyle Fitness and Beatbox Express workshops, or at a place of warm gathering in your community.This was such a lovely conversation with BS. He is such a joyful person. We talked about becoming creative out of defiance. BS shared moments in his life when he was forced to face his individualism and when he decided to embrace it rather than give in to the bullies. David “BS” Bradshaw is an artist that has the kind of charm and determination that will keep him afloat through this creative life. He told me his mother's mantra, “You win some, you learn some.” And I couldn't agree more! Having a good attitude through tough times can make all the difference. BS told me of his recent development as an artist. He had been active in the performing all the time / producing albums lifestyle before the pandemic. But when major changes disrupted this path, BS pivoted and used his skills to develop online classes spreading the joy of freestyle rap to the world. He spoke of his workshop attendees as his friends, his community. BS is building a strong, supportive community with Freestyle Fitness!Support David “BS” Bradshaw by listening to his music or by taking a workshop with him! Join the party at: trustBS.com/classes Yes But Why Podcast is a proud member of the HC Universal Network family of podcasts. Visit us at HCUniversalNetwork.com to join in on the fun. #YesButWhy #Podcast #HCUniversalNetworkThis episode of Yes But Why podcast is sponsored by audible - get your FREE audiobook download and your 30 day free trial at http://www.audibletrial.com/YESBUTWHY. This episode of Yes But Why is also sponsored by PodcastCadet.com. Go to PodcastCadet.com to connect with us so we can help you with your podcast! Save money by putting in offer code YBY20 to get 20% off the first service or workshop you buy!(production notes: recorded zoom meeting via Rodecaster on 4/27/2022; posted on 5/16/2022)

This week on Yes But Why, I interviewed emcee/beatboxer, David “BS” Bradshaw about his love for performing freestyle rap and teaching workshops. David "BS" Bradshaw has been emceeing and beatboxing in NYC for the past decade. His primary focus the last five years has been refining his craft as an artist- educator and programming specialist. He has toured regionally, performed at the Apollo, been featured on BET's 106&Park, and The Today Show. He's collaborated on hip-hop based team-building and professional development seminars with entities like Facebook, Nikon, Toyota, the Museum of Street Art, BMW Foundation, Carnegie Hall, and Lavelle School for the Blind. BS is a BEAT Global T3 certified instructor with background as a Spanish Dual Language teacher. He currently facilitates workshops for learners of all ages and abilities in freestyle rhyming, songwriting, and beatboxing, including incarcerated youth and special needs populations. You can find BS teaching at Freestyle Love Supreme's Rap Academy, his own Freestyle Fitness and Beatbox Express workshops, or at a place of warm gathering in your community. This was such a lovely conversation with BS. He is such a joyful person. We talked about becoming creative out of defiance. BS shared moments in his life when he was forced to face his individualism and when he decided to embrace it rather than give in to the bullies. David “BS” Bradshaw is an artist that has the kind of charm and determination that will keep him afloat through this creative life. He told me his mother's mantra, “You win some, you learn some.” And I couldn't agree more! Having a good attitude through tough times can make all the difference. BS told me of his recent development as an artist. He had been active in the performing all the time / producing albums lifestyle before the pandemic. But when major changes disrupted this path, BS pivoted and used his skills to develop online classes spreading the joy of freestyle rap to the world. He spoke of his workshop attendees as his friends, his community. BS is building a strong, supportive community with Freestyle Fitness! Support David “BS” Bradshaw by listening to his music or by taking a workshop with him! Join the party at: trustBS.com/classes Yes But Why Podcast is a proud member of the HC Universal Network family of podcasts. Visit us at HCUniversalNetwork.com to join in on the fun. #YesButWhy #Podcast #HCUniversalNetwork This episode of Yes But Why podcast is sponsored by audible - get your FREE audiobook download and your 30 day free trial at http://www.audibletrial.com/YESBUTWHY. This episode of Yes But Why is also sponsored by PodcastCadet.com. Go to PodcastCadet.com to connect with us so we can help you with your podcast! Save money by putting in offer code YBY20 to get 20% off the first service or workshop you buy! (production notes: recorded zoom meeting via Rodecaster on 4/27/2022; posted on 5/16/2022)

This week on Yes But Why, I chatted with improviser and theater techperson, Charlotte Brown. Charlotte Brown (they/them) is a Chicago-based multipotentialite that enjoys many creative endeavors such as improv, filmmaking, photography, and teching virtual improvised shows! Charlotte got their start during the pandemic doing tech for online improv shows through the Hideout Theater in Austin, Texas (you know the one). Charlotte has enjoyed virtual theater because they have gotten to learn and collaborate with people from all over the world. (Shoutout to Kenzie and Braden). One of Charlotte's favorite credits includes doing tech for The Assembly Mexico's, The Walking Sketch show, which was performed entirely in Spanish. Charlotte is not remotely fluent in Spanish but they did an excellent job with the show. Other credits include technical direction for The World's Greatest Improv School (WGIS) and sound design for the B. Iden Payne award-winning online original musical, “Human Resources the Musical.” Charlotte recently moved from Florida to Chicago to pursue their MFA in Comedic Screenwriting from DePaul University in 2021. They are currently stage managing (in real life) at CSz Chicago and The Second City Training Center. Charlotte is also the admin of the Facebook group Tech Alliance of Distributed Artists (TADA!) which is geared towards fostering collaboration and sharing best practices for both not only zoomprov but virtual theater. When we first started our conversation, Charlotte mentioned to me how they are anxious and shy and how that created some tough barriers to creativity. But I challenged that theory - Charlotte must not as shy as they used to be, as they are a loud and proud fixture in the online improv communities. In fact, Charlotte was so bubbly and full of stories during our chat that I was as delighted to be with them via Zoom as I have been chatting with them on Facebook groups for the past few years. Charlotte mused about their love for classic video games like Oregon Trail and Putt Putt Goes to the Moon. They told me about working at Universal Orlando and the beginnings of the path to improv. Charlotte talked about how they read ALL of the improv books before actually dipping a toe in the water and the ups and downs of that decision. Charlotte shared how happenstance got them into teching for online improv shows and how much they are totally in love with it now. We discussed Charlotte's recent move to Chicago and all the goals they are working on presently. Support Charlotte Brown by following them on Instagram (@charlottebreanne19). That is how you can keep up with their creative shenanigans! Yes But Why Podcast is a proud member of the HC Universal Network family of podcasts. Visit us at HCUniversalNetwork.com to join in on the fun. #YesButWhy #Podcast #HCUniversalNetwork This episode of Yes But Why podcast is sponsored by audible - get your FREE audiobook download and your 30 day free trial at http://www.audibletrial.com/YESBUTWHY. This episode of Yes But Why is also sponsored by PodcastCadet.com. Go to PodcastCadet.com to connect with us so we can help you with your podcast! Save money by putting in offer code YBY20 to get 20% off the first service or workshop you buy! (production notes: recorded zoom meeting via Rodecaster on 4/18/2022; posted on 5/9/2022)

This week on Yes But Why, I chatted with improviser and theater techperson, Charlotte Brown. Charlotte Brown (they/them) is a Chicago-based multipotentialite that enjoys many creative endeavors such as improv, filmmaking, photography, and teching virtual improvised shows! Charlotte got their start during the pandemic doing tech for online improv shows through the Hideout Theater in Austin, Texas (you know the one). Charlotte has enjoyed virtual theater because they have gotten to learn and collaborate with people from all over the world. (Shoutout to Kenzie and Braden). One of Charlotte's favorite credits includes doing tech for The Assembly Mexico's, The Walking Sketch show, which was performed entirely in Spanish. Charlotte is not remotely fluent in Spanish but they did an excellent job with the show. Other credits include technical direction for The World's Greatest Improv School (WGIS) and sound design for the B. Iden Payne award-winning online original musical, “Human Resources the Musical.”Charlotte recently moved from Florida to Chicago to pursue their MFA in Comedic Screenwriting from DePaul University in 2021. They are currently stage managing (in real life) at CSz Chicago and The Second City Training Center. Charlotte is also the admin of the Facebook group Tech Alliance of Distributed Artists (TADA!) which is geared towards fostering collaboration and sharing best practices for both not only zoomprov but virtual theater. When we first started our conversation, Charlotte mentioned to me how they are anxious and shy and how that created some tough barriers to creativity. But I challenged that theory - Charlotte must not as shy as they used to be, as they are a loud and proud fixture in the online improv communities. In fact, Charlotte was so bubbly and full of stories during our chat that I was as delighted to be with them via Zoom as I have been chatting with them on Facebook groups for the past few years. Charlotte mused about their love for classic video games like Oregon Trail and Putt Putt Goes to the Moon. They told me about working at Universal Orlando and the beginnings of the path to improv. Charlotte talked about how they read ALL of the improv books before actually dipping a toe in the water and the ups and downs of that decision. Charlotte shared how happenstance got them into teching for online improv shows and how much they are totally in love with it now. We discussed Charlotte's recent move to Chicago and all the goals they are working on presently. Support Charlotte Brown by following them on Instagram (@charlottebreanne19). That is how you can keep up with their creative shenanigans! Yes But Why Podcast is a proud member of the HC Universal Network family of podcasts. Visit us at HCUniversalNetwork.com to join in on the fun. #YesButWhy #Podcast #HCUniversalNetworkThis episode of Yes But Why podcast is sponsored by audible - get your FREE audiobook download and your 30 day free trial at http://www.audibletrial.com/YESBUTWHY. This episode of Yes But Why is also sponsored by PodcastCadet.com. Go to PodcastCadet.com to connect with us so we can help you with your podcast! Save money by putting in offer code YBY20 to get 20% off the first service or workshop you buy!(production notes: recorded zoom meeting via Rodecaster on 4/18/2022; posted on 5/9/2022)

This week on Yes But Why, I chatted with improviser and theater techperson, Charlotte Brown. Charlotte Brown (they/them) is a Chicago-based multipotentialite that enjoys many creative endeavors such as improv, filmmaking, photography, and teching virtual improvised shows! Charlotte got their start during the pandemic doing tech for online improv shows through the Hideout Theater in Austin, Texas (you know the one). Charlotte has enjoyed virtual theater because they have gotten to learn and collaborate with people from all over the world. (Shoutout to Kenzie and Braden). One of Charlotte's favorite credits includes doing tech for The Assembly Mexico's, The Walking Sketch show, which was performed entirely in Spanish. Charlotte is not remotely fluent in Spanish but they did an excellent job with the show. Other credits include technical direction for The World's Greatest Improv School (WGIS) and sound design for the B. Iden Payne award-winning online original musical, “Human Resources the Musical.” Charlotte recently moved from Florida to Chicago to pursue their MFA in Comedic Screenwriting from DePaul University in 2021. They are currently stage managing (in real life) at CSz Chicago and The Second City Training Center. Charlotte is also the admin of the Facebook group Tech Alliance of Distributed Artists (TADA!) which is geared towards fostering collaboration and sharing best practices for both not only zoomprov but virtual theater. When we first started our conversation, Charlotte mentioned to me how they are anxious and shy and how that created some tough barriers to creativity. But I challenged that theory - Charlotte must not as shy as they used to be, as they are a loud and proud fixture in the online improv communities. In fact, Charlotte was so bubbly and full of stories during our chat that I was as delighted to be with them via Zoom as I have been chatting with them on Facebook groups for the past few years. Charlotte mused about their love for classic video games like Oregon Trail and Putt Putt Goes to the Moon. They told me about working at Universal Orlando and the beginnings of the path to improv. Charlotte talked about how they read ALL of the improv books before actually dipping a toe in the water and the ups and downs of that decision. Charlotte shared how happenstance got them into teching for online improv shows and how much they are totally in love with it now. We discussed Charlotte's recent move to Chicago and all the goals they are working on presently. Support Charlotte Brown by following them on Instagram (@charlottebreanne19). That is how you can keep up with their creative shenanigans! Yes But Why Podcast is a proud member of the HC Universal Network family of podcasts. Visit us at HCUniversalNetwork.com to join in on the fun. #YesButWhy #Podcast #HCUniversalNetwork This episode of Yes But Why podcast is sponsored by audible - get your FREE audiobook download and your 30 day free trial at http://www.audibletrial.com/YESBUTWHY. This episode of Yes But Why is also sponsored by PodcastCadet.com. Go to PodcastCadet.com to connect with us so we can help you with your podcast! Save money by putting in offer code YBY20 to get 20% off the first service or workshop you buy! (production notes: recorded zoom meeting via Rodecaster on 4/18/2022; posted on 5/9/2022)

This week on Yes But Why, I had the pleasure of speaking with Arizona-based stand-up comedian, Zack Lyman. Zack Lyman has been performing stand-up comedy for over 13 years. In that time, he has been written about by such publications as Vulture Magazine, Phoenix New Times, and Comedy Hype Magazine. His live shows are unique and full of energy. Zack recently filmed his own soon-to-be-streaming comedy special, The Big Laugh. Recently Zack became a TikTok Partner, tasked with creating funny videos to teach people how to use TikTok. He also makes his own videos, tinkering with electronics and fixing arcade games via @thriftingwithzack. His podcast, an interview show which is aptly named “Zack Lyman Podcast” has been featured in the Top 80 on Apple Podcast charts. Zack was such a fun guest to talk to! He had great stories and he was so amiable. In our conversation, Zack told me how he went from barista to open mic host to stand-up comedian. He imparted his joke writing process and the ways his own style has changed over the years. Zack discussed how great it was to have his TikTok projects during the pandemic and how it helped him to feel creatively fulfilled even when there was no stage to tell jokes from. Zack is a great guy and is clearly working to lift up all the comedians around him. He has organized a tour of his fellow comics and got a lot of his friends out on the road. Zack also produced, The Big Laugh, a streaming comedy special he made to showcase his comedy community. Support Zack Lyman by watching his TikTok @thriftingwithzack and listening to “Zack Lyman Podcast” on Apple Podcasts. Support Zack's recently filmed comedy special, The Big Laugh, by going to biglaughshow.com and filling out the contact form to be alerted when it is available on streaming services. Yes But Why Podcast is a proud member of the HC Universal Network family of podcasts. Visit us at HCUniversalNetwork.com to join in on the fun. #YesButWhy #Podcast #HCUniversalNetwork This episode of Yes But Why podcast is sponsored by audible - get your FREE audiobook download and your 30 day free trial at http://www.audibletrial.com/YESBUTWHY. This episode of Yes But Why is also sponsored by PodcastCadet.com. Go to PodcastCadet.com to connect with us so we can help you with your podcast! Save money by putting in offer code YBY20 to get 20% off the first service or workshop you buy! (production notes: recorded zoom meeting via Rodecaster on 3/28/2022; posted on 5/2/2022)

This week on Yes But Why, I had the pleasure of speaking with Arizona-based stand-up comedian, Zack Lyman. Zack Lyman has been performing stand-up comedy for over 13 years. In that time, he has been written about by such publications as Vulture Magazine, Phoenix New Times, and Comedy Hype Magazine. His live shows are unique and full of energy. Zack recently filmed his own soon-to-be-streaming comedy special, The Big Laugh. Recently Zack became a TikTok Partner, tasked with creating funny videos to teach people how to use TikTok. He also makes his own videos, tinkering with electronics and fixing arcade games via @thriftingwithzack. His podcast, an interview show which is aptly named “Zack Lyman Podcast” has been featured in the Top 80 on Apple Podcast charts. Zack was such a fun guest to talk to! He had great stories and he was so amiable. In our conversation, Zack told me how he went from barista to open mic host to stand-up comedian. He imparted his joke writing process and the ways his own style has changed over the years. Zack discussed how great it was to have his TikTok projects during the pandemic and how it helped him to feel creatively fulfilled even when there was no stage to tell jokes from. Zack is a great guy and is clearly working to lift up all the comedians around him. He has organized a tour of his fellow comics and got a lot of his friends out on the road. Zack also produced, The Big Laugh, a streaming comedy special he made to showcase his comedy community. Support Zack Lyman by watching his TikTok @thriftingwithzack and listening to “Zack Lyman Podcast” on Apple Podcasts. Support Zack's recently filmed comedy special, The Big Laugh, by going to biglaughshow.com and filling out the contact form to be alerted when it is available on streaming services. Yes But Why Podcast is a proud member of the HC Universal Network family of podcasts. Visit us at HCUniversalNetwork.com to join in on the fun. #YesButWhy #Podcast #HCUniversalNetwork This episode of Yes But Why podcast is sponsored by audible - get your FREE audiobook download and your 30 day free trial at http://www.audibletrial.com/YESBUTWHY. This episode of Yes But Why is also sponsored by PodcastCadet.com. Go to PodcastCadet.com to connect with us so we can help you with your podcast! Save money by putting in offer code YBY20 to get 20% off the first service or workshop you buy! (production notes: recorded zoom meeting via Rodecaster on 3/28/2022; posted on 5/2/2022)

This week on Yes But Why, I had the pleasure of speaking with Arizona-based stand-up comedian, Zack Lyman. Zack Lyman has been performing stand-up comedy for over 13 years. In that time, he has been written about by such publications as Vulture Magazine, Phoenix New Times, and Comedy Hype Magazine. His live shows are unique and full of energy. Zack recently filmed his own soon-to-be-streaming comedy special, The Big Laugh. Recently Zack became a TikTok Partner, tasked with creating funny videos to teach people how to use TikTok. He also makes his own videos, tinkering with electronics and fixing arcade games via @thriftingwithzack. His podcast, an interview show which is aptly named “Zack Lyman Podcast” has been featured in the Top 80 on Apple Podcast charts. Zack was such a fun guest to talk to! He had great stories and he was so amiable. In our conversation, Zack told me how he went from barista to open mic host to stand-up comedian. He imparted his joke writing process and the ways his own style has changed over the years. Zack discussed how great it was to have his TikTok projects during the pandemic and how it helped him to feel creatively fulfilled even when there was no stage to tell jokes from. Zack is a great guy and is clearly working to lift up all the comedians around him. He has organized a tour of his fellow comics and got a lot of his friends out on the road. Zack also produced, The Big Laugh, a streaming comedy special he made to showcase his comedy community. Support Zack Lyman by watching his TikTok @thriftingwithzack and listening to “Zack Lyman Podcast” on Apple Podcasts. Support Zack's recently filmed comedy special, The Big Laugh, by going to biglaughshow.com and filling out the contact form to be alerted when it is available on streaming services. Yes But Why Podcast is a proud member of the HC Universal Network family of podcasts. Visit us at HCUniversalNetwork.com to join in on the fun. #YesButWhy #Podcast #HCUniversalNetworkThis episode of Yes But Why podcast is sponsored by audible - get your FREE audiobook download and your 30 day free trial at http://www.audibletrial.com/YESBUTWHY. This episode of Yes But Why is also sponsored by PodcastCadet.com. Go to PodcastCadet.com to connect with us so we can help you with your podcast! Save money by putting in offer code YBY20 to get 20% off the first service or workshop you buy!(production notes: recorded zoom meeting via Rodecaster on 3/28/2022; posted on 5/2/2022)

This week on Yes But Why, I talk to improviser, Chris Griswold. Chris Griswold is the founder and Academic Director of Thunderbolt Comedy. Having taught improv since 1999, Chris is currently one of the world's most prolific improv instructors, coaching more than 800 hours in 2014 alone. Chris is a writer and actor, appearing in commercials for Android and the Brother P-Touch Label Maker, as well as PSAs for the United Nation's #HeForShe program, and Project #UROK. Originally self-taught through weekly Pittsburgh improv jams, Chris has since trained with Upright Citizens Brigade, The PIT, Magnet Theater, The Annoyance Theatre, and Arcade Comedy Theater. Chris is now supporting the improv community in the San Francisco Bay area with Thunderbolt Comedy. They also teach private workshops for business and conferences on topics such as branding, team-building, and creativity training. I was absolutely enchanted by Chris, as I'm sure you will all be as well. In our conversation, we discussed how Chris immersed themselves in the NYC improv scene, and how they have now relocated to the San Francisco Bay area. Such big important improv communities; so much going on. Chris talked a lot about how important it is for people to be nice to each other. They said that when they teach improv, the effort is to unlock a performer's true potential, to show the students how they are great. We got into a big discussion about some bad behaviors Chris witnessed in improv communities across the country. We discuss diversity and inclusivity. When the pandemic hit, Chris had been coaching steadily through Thunderbolt Comedy. But then, when in person meetings stopped, they had to find another way. So Chris and developer friend Michael Parlato created Pineappl, a Video App for Live Performance. It is an alternative to Zoom, that functions better for live collaborative performance like improv. This app is used regularly by such institutions as Queen City Comedy to host their online jams. Chris Griswold is a kind-hearted performer and teacher. Support Chris by connecting with Thunderbolt Comedy about coaching (in person and online available) and by checking out and using the Pineappl app! Yes But Why Podcast is a proud member of the HC Universal Network family of podcasts. Visit us at HCUniversalNetwork.com to join in on the fun. #YesButWhy #Podcast #HCUniversalNetwork This episode of Yes But Why podcast is sponsored by audible - get your FREE audiobook download and your 30 day free trial at http://www.audibletrial.com/YESBUTWHY. This episode of Yes But Why is also sponsored by PodcastCadet.com. Go to PodcastCadet.com to connect with us so we can help you with your podcast! Save money by putting in offer code YBY20 to get 20% off the first service or workshop you buy! (production notes: recorded zoom meeting via Rodecaster on 3/14/2022; posted on 4/25/2022)

This week on Yes But Why, I talk to improviser, Chris Griswold. Chris Griswold is the founder and Academic Director of Thunderbolt Comedy. Having taught improv since 1999, Chris is currently one of the world's most prolific improv instructors, coaching more than 800 hours in 2014 alone. Chris is a writer and actor, appearing in commercials for Android and the Brother P-Touch Label Maker, as well as PSAs for the United Nation's #HeForShe program, and Project #UROK. Originally self-taught through weekly Pittsburgh improv jams, Chris has since trained with Upright Citizens Brigade, The PIT, Magnet Theater, The Annoyance Theatre, and Arcade Comedy Theater. Chris is now supporting the improv community in the San Francisco Bay area with Thunderbolt Comedy. They also teach private workshops for business and conferences on topics such as branding, team-building, and creativity training. I was absolutely enchanted by Chris, as I'm sure you will all be as well. In our conversation, we discussed how Chris immersed themselves in the NYC improv scene, and how they have now relocated to the San Francisco Bay area. Such big important improv communities; so much going on. Chris talked a lot about how important it is for people to be nice to each other. They said that when they teach improv, the effort is to unlock a performer's true potential, to show the students how they are great. We got into a big discussion about some bad behaviors Chris witnessed in improv communities across the country. We discuss diversity and inclusivity. When the pandemic hit, Chris had been coaching steadily through Thunderbolt Comedy. But then, when in person meetings stopped, they had to find another way. So Chris and developer friend Michael Parlato created Pineappl, a Video App for Live Performance. It is an alternative to Zoom, that functions better for live collaborative performance like improv. This app is used regularly by such institutions as Queen City Comedy to host their online jams. Chris Griswold is a kind-hearted performer and teacher. Support Chris by connecting with Thunderbolt Comedy about coaching (in person and online available) and by checking out and using the Pineappl app! Yes But Why Podcast is a proud member of the HC Universal Network family of podcasts. Visit us at HCUniversalNetwork.com to join in on the fun. #YesButWhy #Podcast #HCUniversalNetwork This episode of Yes But Why podcast is sponsored by audible - get your FREE audiobook download and your 30 day free trial at http://www.audibletrial.com/YESBUTWHY. This episode of Yes But Why is also sponsored by PodcastCadet.com. Go to PodcastCadet.com to connect with us so we can help you with your podcast! Save money by putting in offer code YBY20 to get 20% off the first service or workshop you buy! (production notes: recorded zoom meeting via Rodecaster on 3/14/2022; posted on 4/25/2022)

This week on Yes But Why, I talk to improviser, Chris Griswold.Chris Griswold is the founder and Academic Director of Thunderbolt Comedy.Having taught improv since 1999, Chris is currently one of the world's most prolific improv instructors, coaching more than 800 hours in 2014 alone. Chris is a writer and actor, appearing in commercials for Android and the Brother P-Touch Label Maker, as well as PSAs for the United Nation's #HeForShe program, and Project #UROK.Originally self-taught through weekly Pittsburgh improv jams, Chris has since trained with Upright Citizens Brigade, The PIT, Magnet Theater, The Annoyance Theatre, and Arcade Comedy Theater. Chris is now supporting the improv community in the San Francisco Bay area with Thunderbolt Comedy. They also teach private workshops for business and conferences on topics such as branding, team-building, and creativity training.I was absolutely enchanted by Chris, as I'm sure you will all be as well. In our conversation, we discussed how Chris immersed themselves in the NYC improv scene, and how they have now relocated to the San Francisco Bay area. Such big important improv communities; so much going on. Chris talked a lot about how important it is for people to be nice to each other. They said that when they teach improv, the effort is to unlock a performer's true potential, to show the students how they are great. We got into a big discussion about some bad behaviors Chris witnessed in improv communities across the country. We discuss diversity and inclusivity. When the pandemic hit, Chris had been coaching steadily through Thunderbolt Comedy. But then, when in person meetings stopped, they had to find another way. So Chris and developer friend Michael Parlato created Pineappl, a Video App for Live Performance. It is an alternative to Zoom, that functions better for live collaborative performance like improv. This app is used regularly by such institutions as Queen City Comedy to host their online jams. Chris Griswold is a kind-hearted performer and teacher. Support Chris by connecting with Thunderbolt Comedy about coaching (in person and online available) and by checking out and using the Pineappl app! Yes But Why Podcast is a proud member of the HC Universal Network family of podcasts. Visit us at HCUniversalNetwork.com to join in on the fun. #YesButWhy #Podcast #HCUniversalNetworkThis episode of Yes But Why podcast is sponsored by audible - get your FREE audiobook download and your 30 day free trial at http://www.audibletrial.com/YESBUTWHY. This episode of Yes But Why is also sponsored by PodcastCadet.com. Go to PodcastCadet.com to connect with us so we can help you with your podcast! Save money by putting in offer code YBY20 to get 20% off the first service or workshop you buy!(production notes: recorded zoom meeting via Rodecaster on 3/14/2022; posted on 4/25/2022)

This week on Yes But Why, I talk to comedy writer and novelist, Riley E. Smith. Riley E. Smith writes and reads everything, with a specialty in smart-talking antiheroes and strong-willed women across genres. She's taught and performed standup comedy, sketch comedy, and improv on two continents. Riley was brought up in Arizona but she currently lives in Southern California with her helpful editor/boyfriend, where she teaches improv and writes books. Riley also runs a small business helping burgeoning artists find their creativity called the MakeGood Creative Network. In our conversation, Riley told me how she hustled poker as a kid. Listen in for her story of writing and performing hilarious parodies in school. As a born director, the other kids would often ask Riley what games they should play on the playground. Riley, being brave and confident, didn't blink an eye at the leadership position. She likes to take risks like the time when she was asked to direct a musical and she did it without ever having done it before. When she started acting in college, Riley always got the funny roles. She wanted the dark, serious roles but instead, she ended up acting in comedy sketches and later, teaching sketch comedy. Riley told me how “books and improv saved [her] life.” She explained how she got back into sketch comedy as an adult because she needed help dealing with a horrible job. She shared that after a series of ridiculously terrible jobs, her freelance writing career was borne. Riley has self-published a few books, including her most recent novel, CARDINAL. I had such a fun time talking to Riley. We really dug deep into a discussion of world building and the creative process of that. We talk about being goal oriented and taking the next step even when it's scary. Oh and we totally forgot to talk about it but Riley is also spearheading a network for artists on makegoodcreativenetwork.com. Check out all the amazing creative resources she has available! Support Riley E. Smith by reading her books! Or hiring her to write for you! Or taking comedy classes with her! Yes But Why Podcast is a proud member of the HC Universal Network family of podcasts. Visit us at HCUniversalNetwork.com to join in on the fun. #YesButWhy #Podcast #HCUniversalNetwork This episode of Yes But Why podcast is sponsored by audible - get your FREE audiobook download and your 30 day free trial at http://www.audibletrial.com/YESBUTWHY. This episode of Yes But Why is also sponsored by PodcastCadet.com. Go to PodcastCadet.com to connect with us so we can help you with your podcast! Save money by putting in offer code YBY20 to get 20% off the first service or workshop you buy! (production notes: recorded zoom meeting via Rodecaster on 3/7/2022; posted on 4/18/2022)

This week on Yes But Why, I talk to comedy writer and novelist, Riley E. Smith. Riley E. Smith writes and reads everything, with a specialty in smart-talking antiheroes and strong-willed women across genres. She's taught and performed standup comedy, sketch comedy, and improv on two continents. Riley was brought up in Arizona but she currently lives in Southern California with her helpful editor/boyfriend, where she teaches improv and writes books. Riley also runs a small business helping burgeoning artists find their creativity called the MakeGood Creative Network. In our conversation, Riley told me how she hustled poker as a kid. Listen in for her story of writing and performing hilarious parodies in school. As a born director, the other kids would often ask Riley what games they should play on the playground. Riley, being brave and confident, didn't blink an eye at the leadership position. She likes to take risks like the time when she was asked to direct a musical and she did it without ever having done it before. When she started acting in college, Riley always got the funny roles. She wanted the dark, serious roles but instead, she ended up acting in comedy sketches and later, teaching sketch comedy. Riley told me how “books and improv saved [her] life.” She explained how she got back into sketch comedy as an adult because she needed help dealing with a horrible job. She shared that after a series of ridiculously terrible jobs, her freelance writing career was borne. Riley has self-published a few books, including her most recent novel, CARDINAL. I had such a fun time talking to Riley. We really dug deep into a discussion of world building and the creative process of that. We talk about being goal oriented and taking the next step even when it's scary. Oh and we totally forgot to talk about it but Riley is also spearheading a network for artists on makegoodcreativenetwork.com. Check out all the amazing creative resources she has available! Support Riley E. Smith by reading her books! Or hiring her to write for you! Or taking comedy classes with her! Yes But Why Podcast is a proud member of the HC Universal Network family of podcasts. Visit us at HCUniversalNetwork.com to join in on the fun. #YesButWhy #Podcast #HCUniversalNetwork This episode of Yes But Why podcast is sponsored by audible - get your FREE audiobook download and your 30 day free trial at http://www.audibletrial.com/YESBUTWHY. This episode of Yes But Why is also sponsored by PodcastCadet.com. Go to PodcastCadet.com to connect with us so we can help you with your podcast! Save money by putting in offer code YBY20 to get 20% off the first service or workshop you buy! (production notes: recorded zoom meeting via Rodecaster on 3/7/2022; posted on 4/18/2022)

This week on Yes But Why, I talk to comedy writer and novelist, Riley E. Smith. Riley E. Smith writes and reads everything, with a specialty in smart-talking antiheroes and strong-willed women across genres. She's taught and performed standup comedy, sketch comedy, and improv on two continents. Riley was brought up in Arizona but she currently lives in Southern California with her helpful editor/boyfriend, where she teaches improv and writes books. Riley also runs a small business helping burgeoning artists find their creativity called the MakeGood Creative Network. In our conversation, Riley told me how she hustled poker as a kid. Listen in for her story of writing and performing hilarious parodies in school. As a born director, the other kids would often ask Riley what games they should play on the playground. Riley, being brave and confident, didn't blink an eye at the leadership position. She likes to take risks like the time when she was asked to direct a musical and she did it without ever having done it before. When she started acting in college, Riley always got the funny roles. She wanted the dark, serious roles but instead, she ended up acting in comedy sketches and later, teaching sketch comedy.Riley told me how “books and improv saved [her] life.” She explained how she got back into sketch comedy as an adult because she needed help dealing with a horrible job. She shared that after a series of ridiculously terrible jobs, her freelance writing career was borne. Riley has self-published a few books, including her most recent novel, CARDINAL. I had such a fun time talking to Riley. We really dug deep into a discussion of world building and the creative process of that. We talk about being goal oriented and taking the next step even when it's scary. Oh and we totally forgot to talk about it but Riley is also spearheading a network for artists on makegoodcreativenetwork.com. Check out all the amazing creative resources she has available!Support Riley E. Smith by reading her books! Or hiring her to write for you! Or taking comedy classes with her! Yes But Why Podcast is a proud member of the HC Universal Network family of podcasts. Visit us at HCUniversalNetwork.com to join in on the fun. #YesButWhy #Podcast #HCUniversalNetworkThis episode of Yes But Why podcast is sponsored by audible - get your FREE audiobook download and your 30 day free trial at http://www.audibletrial.com/YESBUTWHY. This episode of Yes But Why is also sponsored by PodcastCadet.com. Go to PodcastCadet.com to connect with us so we can help you with your podcast! Save money by putting in offer code YBY20 to get 20% off the first service or workshop you buy!(production notes: recorded zoom meeting via Rodecaster on 3/7/2022; posted on 4/18/2022)

This week on Yes But Why, I connected with creative mentor and entrepreneur, Bria Landry. Currently based in the Houston area, Bria Landry is a theater teacher, director, and creative mentor. Her company, Off The Wall Media and Entertainment, started as a small town youth theater and has since grown into Houston's must have media source.Over the course of more than 30 years, Bria Landry has gained professional experience both on and off the stage. Theatre is the foundation for her creative expression, and she created Off the Wall as a refuge for creative kids like herself. Bria and her company produce shows online and in person. Through avenues such as her weekly talk show OTW Nights Live, her children's network OTW Kids, and her various live events and productions, Bria Landry creates opportunities for her creative tribe to express themselves and share their story. Bria also founded OTW Work and Play Café, which served as a creative space and hub for budding entrepreneurs and artists. In our conversation, we talked about being drawn to the “not so normal” freelance lifestyle. Bria told me about her need to nurture and the different forms that it has taken in her life: from doula to ambulance driver to creative life coach. Bria told me how she grew up in the theater and felt most comfortable there. She said that when she was choosing a career, however, she “did the right thing” and went to medical school. Despite her natural inclination to take care of people, she eventually realized that being a doctor wasn't the right path for her. Bria shared how she started Off the Wall Media and Entertainment and how it has evolved over the years. She noted how theater has taught her to roll with the punches and keep moving even when things don't go the way you expect. We talk about loving and embracing the chaos. We had a great chat about finding and embracing your own creative gifts. I felt a very kindred spirit to Bria. She's a go getter for her own artistic ambitions while also encouraging other creatives in her community to fulfill their dreams. We should all be so lucky as to have the sponsorship of Bria Landry. Support Bria Landry by checking out the Off the Wall Media and Entertainment youtube channel. And if you are in the Houston area and your kiddo wants to get involved with fun theater this summer, contact her at the theater for info on upcoming classes and productions!Yes But Why Podcast is a proud member of the HC Universal Network family of podcasts. Visit us at HCUniversalNetwork.com to join in on the fun. #YesButWhy #Podcast #HCUniversalNetworkThis episode of Yes But Why podcast is sponsored by audible - get your FREE audiobook download and your 30 day free trial at http://www.audibletrial.com/YESBUTWHY. Treat Yourself. Get Audible. This episode of Yes But Why is also sponsored by PodcastCadet.com. Go to PodcastCadet.com to connect with us so we can help you with your podcast! Save money by putting in offer code YBY20 to get 20% off the first service or workshop you buy!(production notes: recorded zoom meeting via Rodecaster on 2/28/2022; posted on 4/11/2022)

This week on Yes But Why, I connected with creative mentor and entrepreneur, Bria Landry. Currently based in the Houston area, Bria Landry is a theater teacher, director, and creative mentor. Her company, Off The Wall Media and Entertainment, started as a small town youth theater and has since grown into Houston's must have media source. Over the course of more than 30 years, Bria Landry has gained professional experience both on and off the stage. Theatre is the foundation for her creative expression, and she created Off the Wall as a refuge for creative kids like herself. Bria and her company produce shows online and in person. Through avenues such as her weekly talk show OTW Nights Live, her children's network OTW Kids, and her various live events and productions, Bria Landry creates opportunities for her creative tribe to express themselves and share their story. Bria also founded OTW Work and Play Café, which served as a creative space and hub for budding entrepreneurs and artists. In our conversation, we talked about being drawn to the “not so normal” freelance lifestyle. Bria told me about her need to nurture and the different forms that it has taken in her life: from doula to ambulance driver to creative life coach. Bria told me how she grew up in the theater and felt most comfortable there. She said that when she was choosing a career, however, she “did the right thing” and went to medical school. Despite her natural inclination to take care of people, she eventually realized that being a doctor wasn't the right path for her. Bria shared how she started Off the Wall Media and Entertainment and how it has evolved over the years. She noted how theater has taught her to roll with the punches and keep moving even when things don't go the way you expect. We talk about loving and embracing the chaos. We had a great chat about finding and embracing your own creative gifts. I felt a very kindred spirit to Bria. She's a go getter for her own artistic ambitions while also encouraging other creatives in her community to fulfill their dreams. We should all be so lucky as to have the sponsorship of Bria Landry. Support Bria Landry by checking out the Off the Wall Media and Entertainment youtube channel. And if you are in the Houston area and your kiddo wants to get involved with fun theater this summer, contact her at the theater for info on upcoming classes and productions! Yes But Why Podcast is a proud member of the HC Universal Network family of podcasts. Visit us at HCUniversalNetwork.com to join in on the fun. #YesButWhy #Podcast #HCUniversalNetwork This episode of Yes But Why podcast is sponsored by audible - get your FREE audiobook download and your 30 day free trial at http://www.audibletrial.com/YESBUTWHY. Treat Yourself. Get Audible. This episode of Yes But Why is also sponsored by PodcastCadet.com. Go to PodcastCadet.com to connect with us so we can help you with your podcast! Save money by putting in offer code YBY20 to get 20% off the first service or workshop you buy! (production notes: recorded zoom meeting via Rodecaster on 2/28/2022; posted on 4/11/2022)

This week on Yes But Why, I connected with creative mentor and entrepreneur, Bria Landry. Currently based in the Houston area, Bria Landry is a theater teacher, director, and creative mentor. Her company, Off The Wall Media and Entertainment, started as a small town youth theater and has since grown into Houston's must have media source. Over the course of more than 30 years, Bria Landry has gained professional experience both on and off the stage. Theatre is the foundation for her creative expression, and she created Off the Wall as a refuge for creative kids like herself. Bria and her company produce shows online and in person. Through avenues such as her weekly talk show OTW Nights Live, her children's network OTW Kids, and her various live events and productions, Bria Landry creates opportunities for her creative tribe to express themselves and share their story. Bria also founded OTW Work and Play Café, which served as a creative space and hub for budding entrepreneurs and artists. In our conversation, we talked about being drawn to the “not so normal” freelance lifestyle. Bria told me about her need to nurture and the different forms that it has taken in her life: from doula to ambulance driver to creative life coach. Bria told me how she grew up in the theater and felt most comfortable there. She said that when she was choosing a career, however, she “did the right thing” and went to medical school. Despite her natural inclination to take care of people, she eventually realized that being a doctor wasn't the right path for her. Bria shared how she started Off the Wall Media and Entertainment and how it has evolved over the years. She noted how theater has taught her to roll with the punches and keep moving even when things don't go the way you expect. We talk about loving and embracing the chaos. We had a great chat about finding and embracing your own creative gifts. I felt a very kindred spirit to Bria. She's a go getter for her own artistic ambitions while also encouraging other creatives in her community to fulfill their dreams. We should all be so lucky as to have the sponsorship of Bria Landry. Support Bria Landry by checking out the Off the Wall Media and Entertainment youtube channel. And if you are in the Houston area and your kiddo wants to get involved with fun theater this summer, contact her at the theater for info on upcoming classes and productions! Yes But Why Podcast is a proud member of the HC Universal Network family of podcasts. Visit us at HCUniversalNetwork.com to join in on the fun. #YesButWhy #Podcast #HCUniversalNetwork This episode of Yes But Why podcast is sponsored by audible - get your FREE audiobook download and your 30 day free trial at http://www.audibletrial.com/YESBUTWHY. Treat Yourself. Get Audible. This episode of Yes But Why is also sponsored by PodcastCadet.com. Go to PodcastCadet.com to connect with us so we can help you with your podcast! Save money by putting in offer code YBY20 to get 20% off the first service or workshop you buy! (production notes: recorded zoom meeting via Rodecaster on 2/28/2022; posted on 4/11/2022)

This week on Yes But Why, I had the pleasure of chatting with UK-based improviser/director/teacher, Rhiannon Jenkins. Rhiannon Jenkins is an actor, an improviser, a singer, a facilitator, a teacher, and a director. During lockdown, Rhiannon directed The Love Circle, Loose Seuss, and Between the Lines at the Hideout Theatre, and continues to teach online. She performed in Scene and Unseen by Across the Pond as part of The World of Improv, with Eggplant Improv at District Queer Comedy Festival, in A Culinary Journey at The Nursery Theatre, and in A Holly Jolly Journey for The Hideout Theatre. Rhiannon recently performed and taught several workshops at the Boom Chicago comedy festival. She has also recently performed at Vancouver Improv Festival and at ImprovFest Ireland. She hosts a virtual Death Cafe for Performers, and recently completed Level One End of Life Doula Training with Doulagivers. She will be attending SWIMP and Improfest Sweden as a teacher and performer, with Living. Dying. Dead. In our conversation, Rhiannon and I talked for a long time about all the things she thought she should do before finally realizing that she wanted to be part of the theatrical world. She shares quite a few wild adventure stories along this journey. She tells me the wonderful tale of how she stumbled into musical theater by accident. Kismet. We talk about how Rhiannon is working toward a move to the US. She spoke to me from San Francisco where she had recently been roped into giving a speech at a women's rights protest. Her improv skills came in handy at that moment for sure. We talk about building community and doing improv as outreach. Rhiannon is a caring and empathetic person and the improv world is lucky to have her wherever she lives. We had a great time talking and I definitely could have talked to her for many more hours! Support Rhiannon Jenkins by taking one of her upcoming workshops – online or in person! Check out her website for more details: https://www.rhiannonjenkins.net/teaching Rhiannon is also booked to teach at SWIMP festival in Upsalla in May, and at Improfest Sweden in Gothenburg in July so if you are attending these festivals, sign up now to join Rhiannon's workshops! Yes But Why Podcast is a proud member of the HC Universal Network family of podcasts. Visit us at HCUniversalNetwork.com to join in on the fun. #YesButWhy #Podcast #HCUniversalNetwork This episode of Yes But Why podcast is sponsored by audible - get your FREE audiobook download and your 30 day free trial at http://www.audibletrial.com/YESBUTWHY. Treat Yourself. Get Audible. This episode of Yes But Why is also sponsored by PodcastCadet.com. Go to PodcastCadet.com to connect with us so we can help you with your podcast! Save money by putting in offer code YBY20 to get 20% off the first service or workshop you buy! (production notes: recorded zoom meeting via Rodecaster on 2/24/2022; posted on 4/4/2022)

This week on Yes But Why, I had the pleasure of chatting with UK-based improviser/director/teacher, Rhiannon Jenkins. Rhiannon Jenkins is an actor, an improviser, a singer, a facilitator, a teacher, and a director. During lockdown, Rhiannon directed The Love Circle, Loose Seuss, and Between the Lines at the Hideout Theatre, and continues to teach online. She performed in Scene and Unseen by Across the Pond as part of The World of Improv, with Eggplant Improv at District Queer Comedy Festival, in A Culinary Journey at The Nursery Theatre, and in A Holly Jolly Journey for The Hideout Theatre. Rhiannon recently performed and taught several workshops at the Boom Chicago comedy festival. She has also recently performed at Vancouver Improv Festival and at ImprovFest Ireland. She hosts a virtual Death Cafe for Performers, and recently completed Level One End of Life Doula Training with Doulagivers. She will be attending SWIMP and Improfest Sweden as a teacher and performer, with Living. Dying. Dead.In our conversation, Rhiannon and I talked for a long time about all the things she thought she should do before finally realizing that she wanted to be part of the theatrical world. She shares quite a few wild adventure stories along this journey. She tells me the wonderful tale of how she stumbled into musical theater by accident. Kismet. We talk about how Rhiannon is working toward a move to the US. She spoke to me from San Francisco where she had recently been roped into giving a speech at a women's rights protest. Her improv skills came in handy at that moment for sure. We talk about building community and doing improv as outreach. Rhiannon is a caring and empathetic person and the improv world is lucky to have her wherever she lives. We had a great time talking and I definitely could have talked to her for many more hours!Support Rhiannon Jenkins by taking one of her upcoming workshops – online or in person! Check out her website for more details: https://www.rhiannonjenkins.net/teachingRhiannon is also booked to teach at SWIMP festival in Upsalla in May, and at Improfest Sweden in Gothenburg in July so if you are attending these festivals, sign up now to join Rhiannon's workshops!Yes But Why Podcast is a proud member of the HC Universal Network family of podcasts. Visit us at HCUniversalNetwork.com to join in on the fun. #YesButWhy #Podcast #HCUniversalNetworkThis episode of Yes But Why podcast is sponsored by audible - get your FREE audiobook download and your 30 day free trial at http://www.audibletrial.com/YESBUTWHY. Treat Yourself. Get Audible. This episode of Yes But Why is also sponsored by PodcastCadet.com. Go to PodcastCadet.com to connect with us so we can help you with your podcast! Save money by putting in offer code YBY20 to get 20% off the first service or workshop you buy!(production notes: recorded zoom meeting via Rodecaster on 2/24/2022; posted on 4/4/2022)

This week on Yes But Why, I had the pleasure of chatting with UK-based improviser/director/teacher, Rhiannon Jenkins. Rhiannon Jenkins is an actor, an improviser, a singer, a facilitator, a teacher, and a director. During lockdown, Rhiannon directed The Love Circle, Loose Seuss, and Between the Lines at the Hideout Theatre, and continues to teach online. She performed in Scene and Unseen by Across the Pond as part of The World of Improv, with Eggplant Improv at District Queer Comedy Festival, in A Culinary Journey at The Nursery Theatre, and in A Holly Jolly Journey for The Hideout Theatre. Rhiannon recently performed and taught several workshops at the Boom Chicago comedy festival. She has also recently performed at Vancouver Improv Festival and at ImprovFest Ireland. She hosts a virtual Death Cafe for Performers, and recently completed Level One End of Life Doula Training with Doulagivers. She will be attending SWIMP and Improfest Sweden as a teacher and performer, with Living. Dying. Dead. In our conversation, Rhiannon and I talked for a long time about all the things she thought she should do before finally realizing that she wanted to be part of the theatrical world. She shares quite a few wild adventure stories along this journey. She tells me the wonderful tale of how she stumbled into musical theater by accident. Kismet. We talk about how Rhiannon is working toward a move to the US. She spoke to me from San Francisco where she had recently been roped into giving a speech at a women's rights protest. Her improv skills came in handy at that moment for sure. We talk about building community and doing improv as outreach. Rhiannon is a caring and empathetic person and the improv world is lucky to have her wherever she lives. We had a great time talking and I definitely could have talked to her for many more hours! Support Rhiannon Jenkins by taking one of her upcoming workshops – online or in person! Check out her website for more details: https://www.rhiannonjenkins.net/teaching Rhiannon is also booked to teach at SWIMP festival in Upsalla in May, and at Improfest Sweden in Gothenburg in July so if you are attending these festivals, sign up now to join Rhiannon's workshops! Yes But Why Podcast is a proud member of the HC Universal Network family of podcasts. Visit us at HCUniversalNetwork.com to join in on the fun. #YesButWhy #Podcast #HCUniversalNetwork This episode of Yes But Why podcast is sponsored by audible - get your FREE audiobook download and your 30 day free trial at http://www.audibletrial.com/YESBUTWHY. Treat Yourself. Get Audible. This episode of Yes But Why is also sponsored by PodcastCadet.com. Go to PodcastCadet.com to connect with us so we can help you with your podcast! Save money by putting in offer code YBY20 to get 20% off the first service or workshop you buy! (production notes: recorded zoom meeting via Rodecaster on 2/24/2022; posted on 4/4/2022)

This week on Yes But Why, I chatted with Austin actor/writer, Jonathan Flanders. Jonathan Flanders is an award winning actor and writer. Acting professionally for over a decade, he is signed with Collier Talent Agency in the Southeast market and Bankston Talent out of the New Mexico and LA markets. He studies his acting craft under acting coach. Paula Russell. Jonathan helped create and perform the Unemployed Wine Guy, as seen on TikTok, Youtube, and Instagram. He can be seen soon on HBO's Love and Death as Officer Stimson. In our conversation, Jonathan paid homage to his beloved acting coach, Paula Russell. We talked about all the benefits he has reaped from acting classes with her, from finding the moment to getting in touch with emotions. We talked about Jonathan's innate connection to performing. He told me the story of five year old Jonathan improvising a scene with his bowl and utensils. And yet, it wasn't until after Jonathan survived major surgery that he decided to commit himself to a career in acting. We discussed anxiety and therapy. We talked about the cathartic nature of telling stories. We go down a rabbit hole about storytelling as a universal experience, starting with the first cave drawings. We talk about writing jokes and screenplays and how much fun we have in the writers' group we are in together!Support Jonathan Flanders by checking out his web series about the Unemployed Wine Guy at unemployedwineguy.com. And keep your eyes peeled for Jonathan as “Officer Stimson” in the HBO series, Love and Death. Yes But Why Podcast is a proud member of the HC Universal Network family of podcasts. Visit us at HCUniversalNetwork.com to join in on the fun. #YesButWhy #Podcast #HCUniversalNetworkThis episode of Yes But Why podcast is sponsored by audible - get your FREE audiobook download and your 30 day free trial at http://www.audibletrial.com/YESBUTWHY. Treat Yourself. Get Audible. This episode of Yes But Why is also sponsored by PodcastCadet.com. Go to PodcastCadet.com to connect with us so we can help you with your podcast! Save money by putting in offer code YBY20 to get 20% off the first service or workshop you buy!(production notes: recorded zoom meeting via Rodecaster on 2/21/2022; posted on 3/28/2022)

This week on Yes But Why, I chatted with Austin actor/writer, Jonathan Flanders. Jonathan Flanders is an award winning actor and writer. Acting professionally for over a decade, he is signed with Collier Talent Agency in the Southeast market and Bankston Talent out of the New Mexico and LA markets. He studies his acting craft under acting coach. Paula Russell. Jonathan helped create and perform the Unemployed Wine Guy, as seen on TikTok, Youtube, and Instagram. He can be seen soon on HBO's Love and Death as Officer Stimson. In our conversation, Jonathan paid homage to his beloved acting coach, Paula Russell. We talked about all the benefits he has reaped from acting classes with her, from finding the moment to getting in touch with emotions. We talked about Jonathan's innate connection to performing. He told me the story of five year old Jonathan improvising a scene with his bowl and utensils. And yet, it wasn't until after Jonathan survived major surgery that he decided to commit himself to a career in acting. We discussed anxiety and therapy. We talked about the cathartic nature of telling stories. We go down a rabbit hole about storytelling as a universal experience, starting with the first cave drawings. We talk about writing jokes and screenplays and how much fun we have in the writers' group we are in together! Support Jonathan Flanders by checking out his web series about the Unemployed Wine Guy at unemployedwineguy.com. And keep your eyes peeled for Jonathan as “Officer Stimson” in the HBO series, Love and Death. Yes But Why Podcast is a proud member of the HC Universal Network family of podcasts. Visit us at HCUniversalNetwork.com to join in on the fun. #YesButWhy #Podcast #HCUniversalNetwork This episode of Yes But Why podcast is sponsored by audible - get your FREE audiobook download and your 30 day free trial at http://www.audibletrial.com/YESBUTWHY. Treat Yourself. Get Audible. This episode of Yes But Why is also sponsored by PodcastCadet.com. Go to PodcastCadet.com to connect with us so we can help you with your podcast! Save money by putting in offer code YBY20 to get 20% off the first service or workshop you buy! (production notes: recorded zoom meeting via Rodecaster on 2/21/2022; posted on 3/28/2022)

This week on Yes But Why, I chatted with Austin actor/writer, Jonathan Flanders. Jonathan Flanders is an award winning actor and writer. Acting professionally for over a decade, he is signed with Collier Talent Agency in the Southeast market and Bankston Talent out of the New Mexico and LA markets. He studies his acting craft under acting coach. Paula Russell. Jonathan helped create and perform the Unemployed Wine Guy, as seen on TikTok, Youtube, and Instagram. He can be seen soon on HBO's Love and Death as Officer Stimson. In our conversation, Jonathan paid homage to his beloved acting coach, Paula Russell. We talked about all the benefits he has reaped from acting classes with her, from finding the moment to getting in touch with emotions. We talked about Jonathan's innate connection to performing. He told me the story of five year old Jonathan improvising a scene with his bowl and utensils. And yet, it wasn't until after Jonathan survived major surgery that he decided to commit himself to a career in acting. We discussed anxiety and therapy. We talked about the cathartic nature of telling stories. We go down a rabbit hole about storytelling as a universal experience, starting with the first cave drawings. We talk about writing jokes and screenplays and how much fun we have in the writers' group we are in together! Support Jonathan Flanders by checking out his web series about the Unemployed Wine Guy at unemployedwineguy.com. And keep your eyes peeled for Jonathan as “Officer Stimson” in the HBO series, Love and Death. Yes But Why Podcast is a proud member of the HC Universal Network family of podcasts. Visit us at HCUniversalNetwork.com to join in on the fun. #YesButWhy #Podcast #HCUniversalNetwork This episode of Yes But Why podcast is sponsored by audible - get your FREE audiobook download and your 30 day free trial at http://www.audibletrial.com/YESBUTWHY. Treat Yourself. Get Audible. This episode of Yes But Why is also sponsored by PodcastCadet.com. Go to PodcastCadet.com to connect with us so we can help you with your podcast! Save money by putting in offer code YBY20 to get 20% off the first service or workshop you buy! (production notes: recorded zoom meeting via Rodecaster on 2/21/2022; posted on 3/28/2022)

This week on Yes But Why, listen in as I chat with improviser, instructor and communicator, Whit Shiller. Based out of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Whit Shiller began his 20+ year career in improv at ComedySportz. He later co-founded Fish Sticks Comedy in 2007 and has been performing and producing shows with his company ever since. Fish Sticks Comedy connected with improv scenes all over the country and now has local troupes in Atlanta, Dallas, Denver, and Milwaukee. The cities perform separately or as one large national team. Through Fish Sticks Comedy, Whit and his team seek to honor and uplift their audiences and use improv as a tool for authentic, positive connection. This curiosity about improv led him to develop and host the Improv Comedy Connection podcast, a show which seeks to explore how to connect more deeply with our fellow players as well as our audiences through humorous communication. In our conversation, Whit and I talk a lot about making connections – with friends, with businesses, and with audiences. Whit shares with me one of his secrets for getting in tune with an audience and it is a valuable lesson! We chat about connection over content and how sometimes (most of the time) the easy laugh is not the best one to get. We discuss curiosity as the key to understanding life. We talk about getting to know our scene partners and our audience members. Whit points out that “a common thing in life is feeling like you're on the outside” and how improv can make you feel a part of something bigger. Support Whit Shiller by checking out Fish Sticks Comedy in whichever city is closest to you! (Mine's Dallas!) And you can also listen to Whit's podcast, Improv Comedy Connection! Yes But Why Podcast is a proud member of the HC Universal Network family of podcasts. Visit us at HCUniversalNetwork.com to join in on the fun. #YesButWhy #Podcast #HCUniversalNetwork This episode of Yes But Why podcast is sponsored by audible - get your FREE audiobook download and your 30 day free trial at http://www.audibletrial.com/YESBUTWHY. Treat Yourself. Get Audible. This episode of Yes But Why is also sponsored by PodcastCadet.com. Go to PodcastCadet.com to connect with us so we can help you with your podcast! Save money by putting in offer code YBY20 to get 20% off the first service or workshop you buy! (production notes: recorded zoom meeting via Rodecaster on 2/14/2022; posted on 3/21/2022)

This week on Yes But Why, listen in as I chat with improviser, instructor and communicator, Whit Shiller. Based out of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Whit Shiller began his 20+ year career in improv at ComedySportz. He later co-founded Fish Sticks Comedy in 2007 and has been performing and producing shows with his company ever since. Fish Sticks Comedy connected with improv scenes all over the country and now has local troupes in Atlanta, Dallas, Denver, and Milwaukee. The cities perform separately or as one large national team. Through Fish Sticks Comedy, Whit and his team seek to honor and uplift their audiences and use improv as a tool for authentic, positive connection. This curiosity about improv led him to develop and host the Improv Comedy Connection podcast, a show which seeks to explore how to connect more deeply with our fellow players as well as our audiences through humorous communication. In our conversation, Whit and I talk a lot about making connections – with friends, with businesses, and with audiences. Whit shares with me one of his secrets for getting in tune with an audience and it is a valuable lesson! We chat about connection over content and how sometimes (most of the time) the easy laugh is not the best one to get. We discuss curiosity as the key to understanding life. We talk about getting to know our scene partners and our audience members. Whit points out that “a common thing in life is feeling like you're on the outside” and how improv can make you feel a part of something bigger. Support Whit Shiller by checking out Fish Sticks Comedy in whichever city is closest to you! (Mine's Dallas!) And you can also listen to Whit's podcast, Improv Comedy Connection! Yes But Why Podcast is a proud member of the HC Universal Network family of podcasts. Visit us at HCUniversalNetwork.com to join in on the fun. #YesButWhy #Podcast #HCUniversalNetwork This episode of Yes But Why podcast is sponsored by audible - get your FREE audiobook download and your 30 day free trial at http://www.audibletrial.com/YESBUTWHY. Treat Yourself. Get Audible. This episode of Yes But Why is also sponsored by PodcastCadet.com. Go to PodcastCadet.com to connect with us so we can help you with your podcast! Save money by putting in offer code YBY20 to get 20% off the first service or workshop you buy! (production notes: recorded zoom meeting via Rodecaster on 2/14/2022; posted on 3/21/2022)

This week on Yes But Why, listen in as I chat with improviser, instructor and communicator, Whit Shiller. Based out of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Whit Shiller began his 20+ year career in improv at ComedySportz. He later co-founded Fish Sticks Comedy in 2007 and has been performing and producing shows with his company ever since. Fish Sticks Comedy connected with improv scenes all over the country and now has local troupes in Atlanta, Dallas, Denver, and Milwaukee. The cities perform separately or as one large national team. Through Fish Sticks Comedy, Whit and his team seek to honor and uplift their audiences and use improv as a tool for authentic, positive connection. This curiosity about improv led him to develop and host the Improv Comedy Connection podcast, a show which seeks to explore how to connect more deeply with our fellow players as well as our audiences through humorous communication.In our conversation, Whit and I talk a lot about making connections – with friends, with businesses, and with audiences. Whit shares with me one of his secrets for getting in tune with an audience and it is a valuable lesson! We chat about connection over content and how sometimes (most of the time) the easy laugh is not the best one to get.We discuss curiosity as the key to understanding life. We talk about getting to know our scene partners and our audience members. Whit points out that “a common thing in life is feeling like you're on the outside” and how improv can make you feel a part of something bigger. Support Whit Shiller by checking out Fish Sticks Comedy in whichever city is closest to you! (Mine's Dallas!) And you can also listen to Whit's podcast, Improv Comedy Connection!Yes But Why Podcast is a proud member of the HC Universal Network family of podcasts. Visit us at HCUniversalNetwork.com to join in on the fun. #YesButWhy #Podcast #HCUniversalNetworkThis episode of Yes But Why podcast is sponsored by audible - get your FREE audiobook download and your 30 day free trial at http://www.audibletrial.com/YESBUTWHY. Treat Yourself. Get Audible. This episode of Yes But Why is also sponsored by PodcastCadet.com. Go to PodcastCadet.com to connect with us so we can help you with your podcast! Save money by putting in offer code YBY20 to get 20% off the first service or workshop you buy!(production notes: recorded zoom meeting via Rodecaster on 2/14/2022; posted on 3/21/2022)

In this episode of Yes But Why, I speak with Actor, Theatre Director, and Improviser, Emma Bird. Based out of Liverpool, UK, Emma Bird began her acting career in 1990 featuring in a lead role alongside Pete Postlethwaite, in the BBC film, Needle. While being represented by Independent Talent agency in London, she began a successful career in television, most notably as series regular Maxine Price in Casualty (1992). Emma has been featured in the films, Seventeen (with Rachel Weisz, 1996) and The Governess (with Minnie Driver, 1997) among others. Notable theatre work includes The Good Hope (The Royal National Theatre and UK tour), David Mamet's Oleanna (Norwich Playhouse), and Ariel Dorfman's Death & the Maiden (Hope Street Theatre, Liverpool). Emma is also a celebrated theater director that has directed critically acclaimed productions at Brighton, Manchester and Liverpool Fringe Festivals. Emma began improvising in 2007 and has since trained with leading improv professionals with a broad range of styles and philosophies from schools such as Second City, iO; UCB; Annoyance Theatre & The Groundlings. Teachers include The Maydays, Jaime Moyer; David Razowsky; Liz Allen; Michael Gellman; Rachel Mason & Susan Messing; Will Hines; Jay Sukow; Brian Palermo; Jeff Michalski; Michelle Gilliam; Shannon Stott; Jonathan Pitts; Aretha Sills; Armando Diaz, amongst others.Emma Bird is the Founder & Director of Liverpool Comedy Improv (LCI). Started in 2015, Liverpool Comedy Improv provides the opportunity to learn improvisation in Liverpool and across Merseyside. She has founded, developed, performed and directed four improv teams. Currently performing with Boss Birds Improv (Liverpool's first all women team); and duo team Moses & Bird. Emma is one of the leading teachers of comedy improvisation in Liverpool and the North West. Emma's approach to teaching improv is grounded in her 30 year professional experience as an actor and theatre director.In my conversation with the very impressive Emma Bird, she told me how, onstage, she plays cheeky, silly, and “a bit bonkers.” Emma spoke to me about finding her people when she joined a youth theater group at the age of 7. She talked about creating that same kind of community with Liverpool Comedy Improv (LCI).We chatted about tapping into imaginative play as a kid and connecting with your own playful spirit as an adult. We spent time going over what we learned from the pandemic. We both agreed that, for us personally, live theater feels more life affirming that zoomprov. (Though we do both love the opportunity we had to meet and connect through this medium!) We talked about the benefits of being a go getter with your own creative projects. “Make it and they will come,” she says. We discuss the importance of saying YES. You can support Emma Bird by attending a class at Liverpool Comedy Improv online or in person! You can also buy LCI merch from wherever you are in the world!Yes But Why Podcast is a proud member of the HC Universal Network family of podcasts. Visit us at HCUniversalNetwork.com to join in on the fun. #YesButWhy #Podcast #HCUniversalNetworkThis episode of Yes But Why podcast is sponsored by audible - get your FREE audiobook download and your 30 day free trial at http://www.audibletrial.com/YESBUTWHY. Treat Yourself. Get Audible. This episode of Yes But Why is also sponsored by PodcastCadet.com. Go to PodcastCadet.com to connect with us so we can help you with your podcast! Save money by putting in offer code YBY20 to get 20% off the first service or workshop you buy!(production notes: recorded zoom meeting via Rodecaster on 2/3/2022; posted on 3/14/2022)

In this episode of Yes But Why, I speak with Actor, Theatre Director, and Improviser, Emma Bird. Based out of Liverpool, UK, Emma Bird began her acting career in 1990 featuring in a lead role alongside Pete Postlethwaite, in the BBC film, Needle. While being represented by Independent Talent agency in London, she began a successful career in television, most notably as series regular Maxine Price in Casualty (1992). Emma has been featured in the films, Seventeen (with Rachel Weisz, 1996) and The Governess (with Minnie Driver, 1997) among others. Notable theatre work includes The Good Hope (The Royal National Theatre and UK tour), David Mamet's Oleanna (Norwich Playhouse), and Ariel Dorfman's Death & the Maiden (Hope Street Theatre, Liverpool). Emma is also a celebrated theater director that has directed critically acclaimed productions at Brighton, Manchester and Liverpool Fringe Festivals. Emma began improvising in 2007 and has since trained with leading improv professionals with a broad range of styles and philosophies from schools such as Second City, iO; UCB; Annoyance Theatre & The Groundlings. Teachers include The Maydays, Jaime Moyer; David Razowsky; Liz Allen; Michael Gellman; Rachel Mason & Susan Messing; Will Hines; Jay Sukow; Brian Palermo; Jeff Michalski; Michelle Gilliam; Shannon Stott; Jonathan Pitts; Aretha Sills; Armando Diaz, amongst others. Emma Bird is the Founder & Director of Liverpool Comedy Improv (LCI). Started in 2015, Liverpool Comedy Improv provides the opportunity to learn improvisation in Liverpool and across Merseyside. She has founded, developed, performed and directed four improv teams. Currently performing with Boss Birds Improv (Liverpool's first all women team); and duo team Moses & Bird. Emma is one of the leading teachers of comedy improvisation in Liverpool and the North West. Emma's approach to teaching improv is grounded in her 30 year professional experience as an actor and theatre director. In my conversation with the very impressive Emma Bird, she told me how, onstage, she plays cheeky, silly, and “a bit bonkers.” Emma spoke to me about finding her people when she joined a youth theater group at the age of 7. She talked about creating that same kind of community with Liverpool Comedy Improv (LCI). We chatted about tapping into imaginative play as a kid and connecting with your own playful spirit as an adult. We spent time going over what we learned from the pandemic. We both agreed that, for us personally, live theater feels more life affirming that zoomprov. (Though we do both love the opportunity we had to meet and connect through this medium!) We talked about the benefits of being a go getter with your own creative projects. “Make it and they will come,” she says. We discuss the importance of saying YES. You can support Emma Bird by attending a class at Liverpool Comedy Improv online or in person! You can also buy LCI merch from wherever you are in the world! Yes But Why Podcast is a proud member of the HC Universal Network family of podcasts. Visit us at HCUniversalNetwork.com to join in on the fun. #YesButWhy #Podcast #HCUniversalNetwork This episode of Yes But Why podcast is sponsored by audible - get your FREE audiobook download and your 30 day free trial at http://www.audibletrial.com/YESBUTWHY. Treat Yourself. Get Audible. This episode of Yes But Why is also sponsored by PodcastCadet.com. Go to PodcastCadet.com to connect with us so we can help you with your podcast! Save money by putting in offer code YBY20 to get 20% off the first service or workshop you buy! (production notes: recorded zoom meeting via Rodecaster on 2/3/2022; posted on 3/14/2022)

In this episode of Yes But Why, I speak with Actor, Theatre Director, and Improviser, Emma Bird. Based out of Liverpool, UK, Emma Bird began her acting career in 1990 featuring in a lead role alongside Pete Postlethwaite, in the BBC film, Needle. While being represented by Independent Talent agency in London, she began a successful career in television, most notably as series regular Maxine Price in Casualty (1992). Emma has been featured in the films, Seventeen (with Rachel Weisz, 1996) and The Governess (with Minnie Driver, 1997) among others. Notable theatre work includes The Good Hope (The Royal National Theatre and UK tour), David Mamet's Oleanna (Norwich Playhouse), and Ariel Dorfman's Death & the Maiden (Hope Street Theatre, Liverpool). Emma is also a celebrated theater director that has directed critically acclaimed productions at Brighton, Manchester and Liverpool Fringe Festivals. Emma began improvising in 2007 and has since trained with leading improv professionals with a broad range of styles and philosophies from schools such as Second City, iO; UCB; Annoyance Theatre & The Groundlings. Teachers include The Maydays, Jaime Moyer; David Razowsky; Liz Allen; Michael Gellman; Rachel Mason & Susan Messing; Will Hines; Jay Sukow; Brian Palermo; Jeff Michalski; Michelle Gilliam; Shannon Stott; Jonathan Pitts; Aretha Sills; Armando Diaz, amongst others. Emma Bird is the Founder & Director of Liverpool Comedy Improv (LCI). Started in 2015, Liverpool Comedy Improv provides the opportunity to learn improvisation in Liverpool and across Merseyside. She has founded, developed, performed and directed four improv teams. Currently performing with Boss Birds Improv (Liverpool's first all women team); and duo team Moses & Bird. Emma is one of the leading teachers of comedy improvisation in Liverpool and the North West. Emma's approach to teaching improv is grounded in her 30 year professional experience as an actor and theatre director. In my conversation with the very impressive Emma Bird, she told me how, onstage, she plays cheeky, silly, and “a bit bonkers.” Emma spoke to me about finding her people when she joined a youth theater group at the age of 7. She talked about creating that same kind of community with Liverpool Comedy Improv (LCI). We chatted about tapping into imaginative play as a kid and connecting with your own playful spirit as an adult. We spent time going over what we learned from the pandemic. We both agreed that, for us personally, live theater feels more life affirming that zoomprov. (Though we do both love the opportunity we had to meet and connect through this medium!) We talked about the benefits of being a go getter with your own creative projects. “Make it and they will come,” she says. We discuss the importance of saying YES. You can support Emma Bird by attending a class at Liverpool Comedy Improv online or in person! You can also buy LCI merch from wherever you are in the world! Yes But Why Podcast is a proud member of the HC Universal Network family of podcasts. Visit us at HCUniversalNetwork.com to join in on the fun. #YesButWhy #Podcast #HCUniversalNetwork This episode of Yes But Why podcast is sponsored by audible - get your FREE audiobook download and your 30 day free trial at http://www.audibletrial.com/YESBUTWHY. Treat Yourself. Get Audible. This episode of Yes But Why is also sponsored by PodcastCadet.com. Go to PodcastCadet.com to connect with us so we can help you with your podcast! Save money by putting in offer code YBY20 to get 20% off the first service or workshop you buy! (production notes: recorded zoom meeting via Rodecaster on 2/3/2022; posted on 3/14/2022)

This week on Yes But Why, I laughed a lot with Omaha improv leader, Dylan Oakes Rohde. Dylan Oakes Rohde is the Founder of The Backline Comedy Theatre in Omaha, Nebraska, as well as the Founder of the Omaha Comedy Festival. Dylan has taught and performed at improv schools and festivals in over 20 major US cities and he has taught and performed in Australia, Canada, Netherlands, and Taiwan.In our conversation, Dylan tells me about growing up a wild and mischievous kid. After a teacher helped him find direction, he got deeply involved in writing and acting. While Dylan originally moved to Hollywood seeking writing and acting opportunities, it was work as a video editor that truly opened doors for him. After editing Matt Besser's demo reel, Dylan was introduced to the improv scene of Los Angeles. Like so many of us, he jumped in headfirst and ended up taking classes at both UCB(LA) and iO West. But when Dylan's heart told him he wanted to teach, LA was already saturated with teachers. So he went back to his college town of Omaha to try and start something new there. And since then, Dylan has spent the past decade building up the Backline Comedy Theatre and the Omaha improv community. Dylan and I make a lot of jokes and play around with lots of bits throughout. We had fun. But this episode is also chock full of good advice. We talk about dealing with rejection, finding an agent and a manager, and building an improv community.Support Dylan Oakes Rohde by attending classes or shows at Backline Comedy Theater. Or, you can hire him to come to your town to teach a workshop! Check out Dylan's current animation project, Troglo-Bites, on youtube! Then like, share, comment, and subscribe. https://youtu.be/FHl0gbjpsw4You can also follow Dylan on on TikTok as either @wuwshow or @dr.oakes !Yes But Why Podcast is a proud member of the HC Universal Network family of podcasts. Visit us at HCUniversalNetwork.com to join in on the fun. #YesButWhy #Podcast #HCUniversalNetworkThis episode of Yes But Why podcast is sponsored by audible - get your FREE audiobook download and your 30 day free trial at http://www.audibletrial.com/YESBUTWHY. Treat Yourself. Get Audible. This episode of Yes But Why is also sponsored by PodcastCadet.com. Go to PodcastCadet.com to connect with us so we can help you with your podcast! Save money by putting in offer code YBY20 to get 20% off the first service or workshop you buy!(production notes: recorded zoom meeting via Rodecaster on 2/2/2022; posted on 3/7/2022)

This week on Yes But Why, I laughed a lot with Omaha improv leader, Dylan Oakes Rohde. Dylan Oakes Rohde is the Founder of The Backline Comedy Theatre in Omaha, Nebraska, as well as the Founder of the Omaha Comedy Festival. Dylan has taught and performed at improv schools and festivals in over 20 major US cities and he has taught and performed in Australia, Canada, Netherlands, and Taiwan. In our conversation, Dylan tells me about growing up a wild and mischievous kid. After a teacher helped him find direction, he got deeply involved in writing and acting. While Dylan originally moved to Hollywood seeking writing and acting opportunities, it was work as a video editor that truly opened doors for him. After editing Matt Besser's demo reel, Dylan was introduced to the improv scene of Los Angeles. Like so many of us, he jumped in headfirst and ended up taking classes at both UCB(LA) and iO West. But when Dylan's heart told him he wanted to teach, LA was already saturated with teachers. So he went back to his college town of Omaha to try and start something new there. And since then, Dylan has spent the past decade building up the Backline Comedy Theatre and the Omaha improv community. Dylan and I make a lot of jokes and play around with lots of bits throughout. We had fun. But this episode is also chock full of good advice. We talk about dealing with rejection, finding an agent and a manager, and building an improv community. Support Dylan Oakes Rohde by attending classes or shows at Backline Comedy Theater. Or, you can hire him to come to your town to teach a workshop! Check out Dylan's current animation project, Troglo-Bites, on youtube! Then like, share, comment, and subscribe. https://youtu.be/FHl0gbjpsw4 You can also follow Dylan on on TikTok as either @wuwshow or @dr.oakes ! Yes But Why Podcast is a proud member of the HC Universal Network family of podcasts. Visit us at HCUniversalNetwork.com to join in on the fun. #YesButWhy #Podcast #HCUniversalNetwork This episode of Yes But Why podcast is sponsored by audible - get your FREE audiobook download and your 30 day free trial at http://www.audibletrial.com/YESBUTWHY. Treat Yourself. Get Audible. This episode of Yes But Why is also sponsored by PodcastCadet.com. Go to PodcastCadet.com to connect with us so we can help you with your podcast! Save money by putting in offer code YBY20 to get 20% off the first service or workshop you buy! (production notes: recorded zoom meeting via Rodecaster on 2/2/2022; posted on 3/7/2022)

This week on Yes But Why, I laughed a lot with Omaha improv leader, Dylan Oakes Rohde. Dylan Oakes Rohde is the Founder of The Backline Comedy Theatre in Omaha, Nebraska, as well as the Founder of the Omaha Comedy Festival. Dylan has taught and performed at improv schools and festivals in over 20 major US cities and he has taught and performed in Australia, Canada, Netherlands, and Taiwan. In our conversation, Dylan tells me about growing up a wild and mischievous kid. After a teacher helped him find direction, he got deeply involved in writing and acting. While Dylan originally moved to Hollywood seeking writing and acting opportunities, it was work as a video editor that truly opened doors for him. After editing Matt Besser's demo reel, Dylan was introduced to the improv scene of Los Angeles. Like so many of us, he jumped in headfirst and ended up taking classes at both UCB(LA) and iO West. But when Dylan's heart told him he wanted to teach, LA was already saturated with teachers. So he went back to his college town of Omaha to try and start something new there. And since then, Dylan has spent the past decade building up the Backline Comedy Theatre and the Omaha improv community. Dylan and I make a lot of jokes and play around with lots of bits throughout. We had fun. But this episode is also chock full of good advice. We talk about dealing with rejection, finding an agent and a manager, and building an improv community. Support Dylan Oakes Rohde by attending classes or shows at Backline Comedy Theater. Or, you can hire him to come to your town to teach a workshop! Check out Dylan's current animation project, Troglo-Bites, on youtube! Then like, share, comment, and subscribe. https://youtu.be/FHl0gbjpsw4 You can also follow Dylan on on TikTok as either @wuwshow or @dr.oakes ! Yes But Why Podcast is a proud member of the HC Universal Network family of podcasts. Visit us at HCUniversalNetwork.com to join in on the fun. #YesButWhy #Podcast #HCUniversalNetwork This episode of Yes But Why podcast is sponsored by audible - get your FREE audiobook download and your 30 day free trial at http://www.audibletrial.com/YESBUTWHY. Treat Yourself. Get Audible. This episode of Yes But Why is also sponsored by PodcastCadet.com. Go to PodcastCadet.com to connect with us so we can help you with your podcast! Save money by putting in offer code YBY20 to get 20% off the first service or workshop you buy! (production notes: recorded zoom meeting via Rodecaster on 2/2/2022; posted on 3/7/2022)

This week on Yes But Why, I speak with performer and arts organizer, Anisha Pucadyil. Anisha Pucadyil is an Improviser and Playback theatre performance artist with citylamps and True Heart Theatre. Anisha's earliest connection to the Arts was through school choir and college theater. Inspired by her mother, Anisha is committed to infusing the Arts into organizations for children and young adults. She has been working toward that goal for over a decade. It wasn't until the pandemic pushed the Arts online that she found improv and playback theater. Originally from India, Anisha is now currently transitioning her artistic life to her new home in the UK. She is part of citylamps playback theatre in Bangalore as part of their zoomprov team; and she performs with True Heart Theatre, a playback theater in London. In our chat, Anisha tells me about how her mother taught her to connect with culture and history through the Arts. She talks about her mom's passion for theater and examining “how your heritage affects you.” It was clearly her mother who led Anisha to her love of teaching and performing theater. Despite being exposed very early on to theater and performance, Anisha speaks about how she battled with stage fright for many years. Instead, she leaned into her talent for organizing and spent many years helping others connect with the Arts before she herself got involved. Now, Anisha is part of the larger community of playback theater performers from all over the world. Playback theater is an improvisational form that creates a show based on a story told by a guest speaker. Playback theater is all about honoring the storyteller and connecting with the audience. Anisha muses on her love of the artform and its community. Anisha talks about the benefits of using art to process grief. We also discuss the current globalization of the improv community and how it has provided us both with opportunities to examine our own cultural blindspots. Anisha mentions how lucky she has been to connect with such amazing artistic circles throughout her career. Anisha and I really connected in this conversation. So much so that now we are taking an online workshop together with Katy Schutte! Improv is magical! Support Anisha Pucadyil by following citylamps playback theater and True Heart Theater and checking out any online shows she might be featured in! Yes But Why Podcast is a proud member of the HC Universal Network family of podcasts. Visit us at HCUniversalNetwork.com to join in on the fun. #YesButWhy #Podcast #HCUniversalNetwork This episode of Yes But Why podcast is sponsored by audible - get your FREE audiobook download and your 30 day free trial at http://www.audibletrial.com/YESBUTWHY. Treat Yourself. Get Audible. This episode of Yes But Why is also sponsored by PodcastCadet.com. Go to PodcastCadet.com to connect with us so we can help you with your podcast! Save money by putting in offer code YBY20 to get 20% off the first service or workshop you buy! (production notes: recorded zoom meeting via Rodecaster on 1/28/2022; posted on 2/28/2022)

This week on Yes But Why, I speak with performer and arts organizer, Anisha Pucadyil. Anisha Pucadyil is an Improviser and Playback theatre performance artist with citylamps and True Heart Theatre. Anisha's earliest connection to the Arts was through school choir and college theater. Inspired by her mother, Anisha is committed to infusing the Arts into organizations for children and young adults. She has been working toward that goal for over a decade. It wasn't until the pandemic pushed the Arts online that she found improv and playback theater. Originally from India, Anisha is now currently transitioning her artistic life to her new home in the UK. She is part of Citylamps playback theatre in Bangalore as part of their zoomprov team; and she performs with True Heart Theatre, a playback theater in London. In our chat, Anisha tells me about how her mother taught her to connect with culture and history through the Arts. She talks about her mom's passion for theater and examining “how your heritage affects you.” It was clearly her mother who led Anisha to her love of teaching and performing theater. Despite being exposed very early on to theater and performance, Anisha speaks about how she battled with stage fright for many years. Instead, she leaned into her talent for organizing and spent many years helping others connect with the Arts before she herself got involved. Now, Anisha is part of the larger community of playback theater performers from all over the world. She is currently a member of Citylamps, a playback theatre troupe from Bangalore, which she trained with in person and now performs with online. Playback theater is an improvisational form that creates a show based on a story told by a guest speaker. Playback theater is all about honoring the storyteller and connecting with the audience. Anisha muses on her love of the artform and its community. Anisha talks about the benefits of using art to process grief. We also discuss the current globalization of the improv community and how it has provided us both with opportunities to examine our own cultural blindspots. Anisha mentions how lucky she has been to connect with such amazing artistic circles throughout her career. Anisha and I really connected in this conversation. So much so that now we are taking an online workshop together with Katy Schutte! Improv is magical! In London, check Anisha out at True Heart Theater and London Playback! It is also through True Heart Theater that she is working on the project we talk about documenting the stories of volunteers of the Olympic Games. Online, you can see Anisha perform with Citylamps Playback Theater, ACT (a playback team that was formed online by Joke Rood), Roadtrip Online (a UK based online show featuring women performers), Toothfairy Conspiracy (an all women identifying troupe with Queen City Comedy), and Tiny Dinos (an online improv team created by Nursery students). Tiny Dinos is performing at High Wire Improv on Sundays this season. And Toothfairy Conspiracy performs on Wednesday once every two months and the next performance is this Wednesday March 2, 2022 on the Queen City Comedy Facebook page! Yes But Why Podcast is a proud member of the HC Universal Network family of podcasts. Visit us at HCUniversalNetwork.com to join in on the fun. #YesButWhy #Podcast #HCUniversalNetwork This episode of Yes But Why podcast is sponsored by audible - get your FREE audiobook download and your 30 day free trial at http://www.audibletrial.com/YESBUTWHY. Treat Yourself. Get Audible. This episode of Yes But Why is also sponsored by PodcastCadet.com. Go to PodcastCadet.com to connect with us so we can help you with your podcast! Save money by putting in offer code YBY20 to get 20% off the first service or workshop you buy! (production notes: recorded zoom meeting via Rodecaster on 1/28/2022; posted on 2/28/2022)

This week on Yes But Why, I speak with performer and arts organizer, Anisha Pucadyil. Anisha Pucadyil is an Improviser and Playback theatre performance artist with citylamps and True Heart Theatre. Anisha's earliest connection to the Arts was through school choir and college theater. Inspired by her mother, Anisha is committed to infusing the Arts into organizations for children and young adults. She has been working toward that goal for over a decade. It wasn't until the pandemic pushed the Arts online that she found improv and playback theater. Originally from India, Anisha is now currently transitioning her artistic life to her new home in the UK. She is part of Citylamps playback theatre in Bangalore as part of their zoomprov team; and she performs with True Heart Theatre, a playback theater in London. In our chat, Anisha tells me about how her mother taught her to connect with culture and history through the Arts. She talks about her mom's passion for theater and examining “how your heritage affects you.” It was clearly her mother who led Anisha to her love of teaching and performing theater. Despite being exposed very early on to theater and performance, Anisha speaks about how she battled with stage fright for many years. Instead, she leaned into her talent for organizing and spent many years helping others connect with the Arts before she herself got involved. Now, Anisha is part of the larger community of playback theater performers from all over the world. She is currently a member of Citylamps, a playback theatre troupe from Bangalore, which she trained with in person and now performs with online. Playback theater is an improvisational form that creates a show based on a story told by a guest speaker. Playback theater is all about honoring the storyteller and connecting with the audience. Anisha muses on her love of the artform and its community.Anisha talks about the benefits of using art to process grief. We also discuss the current globalization of the improv community and how it has provided us both with opportunities to examine our own cultural blindspots. Anisha mentions how lucky she has been to connect with such amazing artistic circles throughout her career. Anisha and I really connected in this conversation. So much so that now we are taking an online workshop together with Katy Schutte! Improv is magical! In London, check Anisha out at True Heart Theater and London Playback! It is also through True Heart Theater that she is working on the project we talk about documenting the stories of volunteers of the Olympic Games.Online, you can see Anisha perform with Citylamps Playback Theater, ACT (a playback team that was formed online by Joke Rood), Roadtrip Online (a UK based online show featuring women performers), Toothfairy Conspiracy (an all women identifying troupe with Queen City Comedy), and Tiny Dinos (an online improv team created by Nursery students).Tiny Dinos is performing at High Wire Improv on Sundays this season. And Toothfairy Conspiracy performs on Wednesday once every two months and the next performance is this Wednesday March 2, 2022 on the Queen City Comedy Facebook page!Yes But Why Podcast is a proud member of the HC Universal Network family of podcasts. Visit us at HCUniversalNetwork.com to join in on the fun. #YesButWhy #Podcast #HCUniversalNetworkThis episode of Yes But Why podcast is sponsored by audible - get your FREE audiobook download and your 30 day free trial at http://www.audibletrial.com/YESBUTWHY. Treat Yourself. Get Audible. This episode of Yes But Why is also sponsored by PodcastCadet.com. Go to PodcastCadet.com to connect with us so we can help you with your podcast! Save money by putting in offer code YBY20 to get 20% off the first service or workshop you buy!(production notes: recorded zoom meeting via Rodecaster on 1/28/2022; posted on 2/28/2022)

This week on Yes But Why, listen in as I interview filmmaker and improv instructor, Brandon Reich. Texas native Brandon Reich is an independent filmmaker as well as a teacher of Sketch & Improv at the Fallout Comedy Theater in Austin, Texas. Brandon is a five time "top ten finalist" for Austin's 48hr Film Project. He previously worked for and performed at the world-renowned comedy theater, The Second City, in Chicago. Brandon also recently made his first feature film, The Bob Zula, now available on Amazon. In our chat, Brandon shares his unique path through film school, starting with technical training at New York Film Academy and then onto Columbia College for storytelling, directing, and film theory. We talk about Brandon's love for making comedy films and how they are so much harder to navigate than dramas (sorry film snobs). Brandon tells me about his travels trying to find his way as an artist – from college in NYC, to a film production internship in Houston, to improv and indy filmmaking in Chicago. Now that he is older and a dad, Brandon has put his focus onto teaching film and improv and we totally connect on how fulfilling teaching can be. Brandon and I bond over our mutual connection the Fallout Theater in Austin. Brandon tells me how much improv shapes the way he creates art altogether. I get on my soapbox about how improv is considered uncool and I'm fine with that if it keeps the jerks out. Brandon is a super sweet guy and we had a lot of fun chatting! Support Brandon Reich right now by checking out all the films he has made that are available on the internet! You can watch some of his short films on Vimeo! And you can watch his award winning feature, The Bob Zula, on Amazon Prime! Yes But Why Podcast is a proud member of the HC Universal Network family of podcasts. Visit us at HCUniversalNetwork.com to join in on the fun. #YesButWhy #Podcast #HCUniversalNetwork This episode of Yes But Why podcast is sponsored by audible - get your FREE audiobook download and your 30 day free trial at http://www.audibletrial.com/YESBUTWHY. Treat Yourself. Get Audible. This episode of Yes But Why is also sponsored by PodcastCadet.com. Go to PodcastCadet.com to connect with us so we can help you with your podcast! Save money by putting in offer code YBY20 to get 20% off the first service or workshop you buy! (production notes: recorded zoom meeting via Rodecaster on 1/26/2022; posted on 2/21/2022)

This week on Yes But Why, listen in as I interview filmmaker and improv instructor, Brandon Reich. Texas native Brandon Reich is an independent filmmaker as well as a teacher of Sketch & Improv at the Fallout Comedy Theater in Austin, Texas. Brandon is a five time "top ten finalist" for Austin's 48hr Film Project. He previously worked for and performed at the world-renowned comedy theater, The Second City, in Chicago. Brandon also recently made his first feature film, The Bob Zula, now available on Amazon. In our chat, Brandon shares his unique path through film school, starting with technical training at New York Film Academy and then onto Columbia College for storytelling, directing, and film theory. We talk about Brandon's love for making comedy films and how they are so much harder to navigate than dramas (sorry film snobs). Brandon tells me about his travels trying to find his way as an artist – from college in NYC, to a film production internship in Houston, to improv and indy filmmaking in Chicago. Now that he is older and a dad, Brandon has put his focus onto teaching film and improv and we totally connect on how fulfilling teaching can be. Brandon and I bond over our mutual connection the Fallout Theater in Austin. Brandon tells me how much improv shapes the way he creates art altogether. I get on my soapbox about how improv is considered uncool and I'm fine with that if it keeps the jerks out. Brandon is a super sweet guy and we had a lot of fun chatting! Support Brandon Reich right now by checking out all the films he has made that are available on the internet! You can watch some of his short films on Vimeo! And you can watch his award winning feature, The Bob Zula, on Amazon Prime! Yes But Why Podcast is a proud member of the HC Universal Network family of podcasts. Visit us at HCUniversalNetwork.com to join in on the fun. #YesButWhy #Podcast #HCUniversalNetwork This episode of Yes But Why podcast is sponsored by audible - get your FREE audiobook download and your 30 day free trial at http://www.audibletrial.com/YESBUTWHY. Treat Yourself. Get Audible. This episode of Yes But Why is also sponsored by PodcastCadet.com. Go to PodcastCadet.com to connect with us so we can help you with your podcast! Save money by putting in offer code YBY20 to get 20% off the first service or workshop you buy! (production notes: recorded zoom meeting via Rodecaster on 1/26/2022; posted on 2/21/2022)

In this episode of Yes But Why, I talk to Chicago-based theatre artist, Olivia Wise. Olivia Wise is a writer, actor, and improviser with a background in theatre. She recently relocated to Chicago from Austin, where she studied and performed improv at ColdTowne Theater and starred in scripted shows such as ColdTowne's Sex AKA Weiners and Boobs and Fallout Theater's Losers in Space. Currently, Olivia cohosts a weekly podcast called We Wrote The Book, where every episode she and her friends come up with a pitch for a new musical. In our conversation, Olivia and I discuss dramaturgy and stage management and all the cool yet under appreciated jobs in theater. We talk about building characters from wigs, taking amazing online workshops and writing sitcom scripts. Olivia tells me about a meditative practice she does to find funny and magical moments in life. We have a deep talk about finding community during the pandemic. Olivia was a really great guest, so fun to talk to! Support Olivia Wise listening to her podcast, We Wrote The Book. Or, if you happen to be in the Chicago area, check her out at The Annoyance where she is now taking classes and interning! Yes But Why Podcast is a proud member of the HC Universal Network family of podcasts. Visit us at HCUniversalNetwork.com to join in on the fun. #YesButWhy #Podcast #HCUniversalNetwork This episode of Yes But Why podcast is sponsored by audible - get your FREE audiobook download and your 30 day free trial at http://www.audibletrial.com/YESBUTWHY. Treat Yourself. Get Audible. This episode of Yes But Why is also sponsored by PodcastCadet.com. Go to PodcastCadet.com to connect with us so we can help you with your podcast! Save money by putting in offer code YBY20 to get 20% off the first service or workshop you buy! (production notes: recorded zoom meeting via Rodecaster on 1/24/2022; posted on 2/14/2022)

In this episode of Yes But Why, I talk to Chicago-based theatre artist, Olivia Wise. Olivia Wise is a writer, actor, and improviser with a background in theatre. She recently relocated to Chicago from Austin, where she studied and performed improv at ColdTowne Theater and starred in scripted shows such as ColdTowne's Sex AKA Weiners and Boobs and Fallout Theater's Losers in Space. Currently, Olivia cohosts a weekly podcast called We Wrote The Book, where every episode she and her friends come up with a pitch for a new musical. In our conversation, Olivia and I discuss dramaturgy and stage management and all the cool yet under appreciated jobs in theater. We talk about building characters from wigs, taking amazing online workshops and writing sitcom scripts. Olivia tells me about a meditative practice she does to find funny and magical moments in life. We have a deep talk about finding community during the pandemic. Olivia was a really great guest, so fun to talk to! Support Olivia Wise listening to her podcast, We Wrote The Book. Or, if you happen to be in the Chicago area, check her out at The Annoyance where she is now taking classes and interning! Yes But Why Podcast is a proud member of the HC Universal Network family of podcasts. Visit us at HCUniversalNetwork.com to join in on the fun. #YesButWhy #Podcast #HCUniversalNetwork This episode of Yes But Why podcast is sponsored by audible - get your FREE audiobook download and your 30 day free trial at http://www.audibletrial.com/YESBUTWHY. Treat Yourself. Get Audible. This episode of Yes But Why is also sponsored by PodcastCadet.com. Go to PodcastCadet.com to connect with us so we can help you with your podcast! Save money by putting in offer code YBY20 to get 20% off the first service or workshop you buy! (production notes: recorded zoom meeting via Rodecaster on 1/24/2022; posted on 2/14/2022)

This episode of Yes But Why, I sat down to chat with Jermaine Trice, improviser and artistic director of The Improv Place (US). Jermaine Trice is the founder of The Improv Place in the U.S. He is a Chicago native who has been performing long form, short form, musical, and experimental improv off and on since the late 1990s, starting with Second City. I had a great time chatting with Jermaine. He is an unending font of creativity. From dancing to writing poetry to making theater, Jermaine Trice is always looking for new ways to express himself. He has so many creative ideas and he works on lots and lots of them. We talk about how Jermaine loves to take things apart to see how they work; and then, put them back together in his own new way. This is certainly how he approaches his art. This is also how he got into a career in technology. His early adoption of new techniques in technology not only opened doors for making funny videos, it also got him a job teaching a professional development course on new technology to high school teachers. This job as a teacher plus the creative outlet he picked up on the side at Second City built the groundwork for Jermaine to start his theater, The Improv Place (US). Founded in 2019, The Improv Place believes that all voices should be heard, that every person who has a dream to perform should have the opportunity to do so. Jermaine created The Improv Place as a safe haven for performers who are overlooked, underutilized and misunderstood by mainstream theaters. Jermaine and I connected on the group which I'm always talking about, Improvisers Talking About Food. Jermaine's love of cooking and performing came together in 2020 as Pandemic Chef. You can check out all those episodes on the Improv Place website! Jermaine Trice's platform for new voices, TheImprovPlace.org. creates lots of content online. Jermaine is out there all the time, meeting improvisers, making new videos and teaching improv workshops. Connect with him at The Improv Place to join his open-hearted community! Yes But Why Podcast is a proud member of the HC Universal Network family of podcasts. Visit us at HCUniversalNetwork.com to join in on the fun. #YesButWhy #Podcast #HCUniversalNetwork This episode of Yes But Why podcast is sponsored by audible - get your FREE audiobook download and your 30 day free trial at http://www.audibletrial.com/YESBUTWHY. Treat Yourself. Get Audible. This episode of Yes But Why is also sponsored by PodcastCadet.com. Go to PodcastCadet.com to connect with us so we can help you with your podcast! Save money by putting in offer code YBY20 to get 20% off the first service or workshop you buy! (production notes: recorded zoom meeting via Rodecaster on 1/20/2022; posted on 2/7/2022)

This episode of Yes But Why, I sat down to chat with Jermaine Trice, improviser and artistic director of The Improv Place (US). Jermaine Trice is the founder of The Improv Place in the U.S. He is a Chicago native who has been performing long form, short form, musical, and experimental improv off and on since the late 1990s, starting with Second City. I had a great time chatting with Jermaine. He is an unending font of creativity. From dancing to writing poetry to making theater, Jermaine Trice is always looking for new ways to express himself. He has so many creative ideas and he works on lots and lots of them. We talk about how Jermaine loves to take things apart to see how they work; and then, put them back together in his own new way. This is certainly how he approaches his art. This is also how he got into a career in technology. His early adoption of new techniques in technology not only opened doors for making funny videos, it also got him a job teaching a professional development course on new technology to high school teachers. This job as a teacher plus the creative outlet he picked up on the side at Second City built the groundwork for Jermaine to start his theater, The Improv Place (US). Founded in 2019, The Improv Place believes that all voices should be heard, that every person who has a dream to perform should have the opportunity to do so. Jermaine created The Improv Place as a safe haven for performers who are overlooked, underutilized and misunderstood by mainstream theaters. Jermaine and I connected on the group which I'm always talking about, Improvisers Talking About Food. Jermaine's love of cooking and performing came together in 2020 as Pandemic Chef. You can check out all those episodes on the Improv Place website! Jermaine Trice's platform for new voices, TheImprovPlace.org. creates lots of content online. Jermaine is out there all the time, meeting improvisers, making new videos and teaching improv workshops. Connect with him at The Improv Place to join his open-hearted community! Yes But Why Podcast is a proud member of the HC Universal Network family of podcasts. Visit us at HCUniversalNetwork.com to join in on the fun. #YesButWhy #Podcast #HCUniversalNetwork This episode of Yes But Why podcast is sponsored by audible - get your FREE audiobook download and your 30 day free trial at http://www.audibletrial.com/YESBUTWHY. Treat Yourself. Get Audible. This episode of Yes But Why is also sponsored by PodcastCadet.com. Go to PodcastCadet.com to connect with us so we can help you with your podcast! Save money by putting in offer code YBY20 to get 20% off the first service or workshop you buy! (production notes: recorded zoom meeting via Rodecaster on 1/20/2022; posted on 2/7/2022)

This week on Yes But Why, I talk to the “Mayor of Improv,” Mark Turpin. Mark Turpin is an improviser originally from Manchester and now based in Liverpool in the UK. Mark earned the moniker “Mayor of Improv” for the support he gives to his fellow improvisers in the global Improv Community. Mark has taken online workshops and courses with top improvisers from all over the world, such as Jay Sukow, David Escobedo, Michelle Gilliam, Will Hines and Stephanie Rae. At home in the UK, Mark is a member of Liverpool Comedy Improv. He performs with the Oickers Improv Comedy Troupe, a group that met online through Zoomprov at the suggestion of Liverpool Comedy Improv instructor, Emma Bird. Mark has also been a guest on the Liverpool Comedy ImprovCast with Iain Luke Jones. A self-professed introvert, Mark wasn't exactly looking to be a performer but with his “can do” attitude, he decided to try out an improv drop in class in Manchester. Swept away by the magic of creating things on the spot as well as the joy and the laughter, Mark decided improv was definitely something he wanted to do again and again. In our conversation, Mark tells me how improv has helped him to do better work presentations. We talk about the effort that goes into performing and how sometimes taking time away from improv is important selfcare. Mark tells me about his current improv home at Liverpool Comedy Improv and how much he has learned from his instructors as well as from fellow students. Mark has made some great friends from all over the world with improv. We talk about how great it is to make connections with other improvisers in the global Improv Community. Support Mark Turpin by following the Oickers Improv Comedy Troupe on Facebook and keeping an eye out for their online shows! Yes But Why Podcast is a proud member of the HC Universal Network family of podcasts. Visit us at HCUniversalNetwork.com to join in on the fun. #YesButWhy #Podcast #HCUniversalNetwork This episode of Yes But Why podcast is sponsored by audible - get your FREE audiobook download and your 30 day free trial at http://www.audibletrial.com/YESBUTWHY. Treat Yourself. Get Audible. This episode of Yes But Why is also sponsored by PodcastCadet.com. Go to PodcastCadet.com to connect with us so we can help you with your podcast! Save money by putting in offer code YBY20 to get 20% off the first service or workshop you buy! (production notes: recorded via ZOOM on 1/19/2022…posted on 1/24/2022)