Podcasts about yes but why podcast

This week on Yes But Why, I chatted with Copenhagen-based improviser, Emma Borrow! Emma Borrow is an improv performer and teacher currently residing in Copenhagen, Denmark. Originally from England, Emma began her theatrical journey at the Copenhagen Theatre Circle, an English-speaking amateur theatre group, with a 55-year history of bringing people together through the love of the stage. These days, Emma can be found performing weekly on the mainstage of the Improv Comedy Copenhagen's ‘ICC Theatre.' She also hosts Jam nights for ICC students! Emma also helps to organize the Copenhagen International Improv Festival, which is regrouping for a triumphant return in 2024. Emma's improv style, both when playing and teaching, is driven by curiosity and playfulness. She believes in being an advocate for the international theatre community in Copenhagen. She seeks to create a safe space for both native Danes and expats to unleash their creativity. Emma's goal is to help building the performing arts communities of Copenhagen and to meet inspiring humans along the way. In our conversation, Emma and I discussed the ways in which we realized our own superpowers. We talked about positivity and curiosity as the keys to unlock any door. Emma has always been a very adventurous spirit, kicking off her postgraduate career working in hospitality all over Europe. She told me about some of the wild trips she took before landing in Copenhagen. Emma spoke of finding the freedom in Denmark to pursue her creativity. We got into a discussion about cultural differences and how she has made Copenhagen her home. Emma is very active in the Copenhagen performing arts community. She is passionate about supporting others on their theatrical journeys. We chatted about getting anxious taking care of people and making sure they're having a great experience. Support Emma Borrow by checking out Improv Comedy Copenhagen, where you'll find her teaching, performing on stage and hosting jams. Take classes, come to jams, join the community! Support Emma's other theatrical home at Copenhagen Theatre Circle. They are hosting their annual Fringe Festival in May and they are currently taking submissions!! Sign up today! 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. (production notes: recorded zoom meeting via Rodecaster on 2/8/2023; posted on 2/27/2023)

This week on Yes But Why, I chatted with Copenhagen-based improviser, Emma Borrow! Emma Borrow is an improv performer and teacher currently residing in Copenhagen, Denmark. Originally from England, Emma began her theatrical journey at the Copenhagen Theatre Circle, an English-speaking amateur theatre group, with a 55-year history of bringing people together through the love of the stage. These days, Emma can be found performing weekly on the mainstage of the Improv Comedy Copenhagen's ‘ICC Theatre.' She also hosts Jam nights for ICC students! Emma also helps to organize the Copenhagen International Improv Festival, which is regrouping for a triumphant return in 2024. Emma's improv style, both when playing and teaching, is driven by curiosity and playfulness. She believes in being an advocate for the international theatre community in Copenhagen. She seeks to create a safe space for both native Danes and expats to unleash their creativity. Emma's goal is to help building the performing arts communities of Copenhagen and to meet inspiring humans along the way. In our conversation, Emma and I discussed the ways in which we realized our own superpowers. We talked about positivity and curiosity as the keys to unlock any door. Emma has always been a very adventurous spirit, kicking off her postgraduate career working in hospitality all over Europe. She told me about some of the wild trips she took before landing in Copenhagen. Emma spoke of finding the freedom in Denmark to pursue her creativity. We got into a discussion about cultural differences and how she has made Copenhagen her home. Emma is very active in the Copenhagen performing arts community. She is passionate about supporting others on their theatrical journeys. We chatted about getting anxious taking care of people and making sure they're having a great experience. Support Emma Borrow by checking out Improv Comedy Copenhagen, where you'll find her teaching, performing on stage and hosting jams. Take classes, come to jams, join the community! Support Emma's other theatrical home at Copenhagen Theatre Circle. They are hosting their annual Fringe Festival in May and they are currently taking submissions!! Sign up today! 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. (production notes: recorded zoom meeting via Rodecaster on 2/8/2023; posted on 2/27/2023)

This week on Yes But Why, I interviewed improv performer and producer, Jada Pulley. Jada Pulley is a teaching and theater artist based in Minneapolis, MN. Jada is a staple of HUGE Theater, where they regularly produce and perform in improv shows, such as “Based on a True Story.” They are a proud director of the Twin Cities Black and Funny Improv Festival and founder of the Queer and Funny Improv Festival. Jada is dedicated to making improv an art form accessible to all people, especially those who are traditionally marginalized in theater spaces. In our conversation, we discussed the different ways we receive and take in storytelling. Jada talked of their love of collaborating with other artists. We discuss how diversity among artists can open minds to different directing paths and different playing styles. Jada is really busy but they say it all “feels like fun.” We talked about how they manage a full plate of activities, from day job to producing festivals to being social with the HUGE Theater community. We kept discussing the ebb and flow of being sometimes an introvert and sometimes an extrovert. Jada told me about producing the “Strangers No More” improv show and how that created a space to connect with other performers in the Minneapolis scene. I confessed that that is why I do Yes But Why – to connect and make friends with cool improvisers active in the worldwide scene. Support Jada Pulley by joining the HUGE Theater community! And by taking part in Jada's festivals: the Twin Cities Black and Funny Improv Festival and the Queer and Funny Improv Festival! 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. (production notes: recorded zoom meeting via Rodecaster on 2/6/2023; posted on 2/13/2023)

This week on Yes But Why, I interviewed improv performer and producer, Jada Pulley. Jada Pulley is a teaching and theater artist based in Minneapolis, MN. Jada is a staple of HUGE Theater, where they regularly produce and perform in improv shows, such as “Based on a True Story.” They are a proud director of the Twin Cities Black and Funny Improv Festival and founder of the Queer and Funny Improv Festival. Jada is dedicated to making improv an art form accessible to all people, especially those who are traditionally marginalized in theater spaces. In our conversation, we discussed the different ways we receive and take in storytelling. Jada talked of their love of collaborating with other artists. We discuss how diversity among artists can open minds to different directing paths and different playing styles. Jada is really busy but they say it all “feels like fun.” We talked about how they manage a full plate of activities, from day job to producing festivals to being social with the HUGE Theater community. We kept discussing the ebb and flow of being sometimes an introvert and sometimes an extrovert. Jada told me about producing the “Strangers No More” improv show and how that created a space to connect with other performers in the Minneapolis scene. I confessed that that is why I do Yes But Why – to connect and make friends with cool improvisers active in the worldwide scene. Support Jada Pulley by joining the HUGE Theater community! And by taking part in Jada's festivals: the Twin Cities Black and Funny Improv Festival and the Queer and Funny Improv Festival! 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. (production notes: recorded zoom meeting via Rodecaster on 2/6/2023; posted on 2/13/2023)

This week on Yes But Why, I chatted with actor, improviser, and coach Karla Dingle. Karla Dingle has spent her life on the stage. She is an actor and a voiceover artist. You can see her performing improv with Now are the Foxes Improv Comedy, Close Distance Improv, Charlotte Comedy Theater, and Background Noise Musical Improv. ​​ Karla's passion beside performing is teaching and coaching. Currently, Karla is the Education Director and an Instructor at Queen City Comedy in Charlotte, NC in the US. She is also the Improv Director and an Acting Instructor at a local studio in Charlotte, NC. Over the last several years, Karla has instructed students from Peru, Israel, India, Canada, Japan, Europe, South Africa, the Philippines and beyond. ​ In our conversation, I learned that Karla is very community focused. From the neighborhood kids she grew up with in Atlanta to the theater kids she performed with at the Trumbull Youth Association, she found her crowd and she stuck with them. And now, as an adult, Karla builds and nurtures communities in Charlotte, NC and beyond. She really knows how to bring people together. I first became aware of Karla during the pandemic when the communication amongst improvisers across the globe was at its peak. The hot spot for the international improv community was online jams hosted by Karla and the Queen City Comedy community. Everyone I was interviewing at the time was abuzz about working with Karla. And by golly, I eventually got brave enough to ask Karla to be a guest on this show. Karla was a total delight. A real dream guest. She tells me how the Queen City Comedy online jams came to be and what it was like to be connected to so many amazing performers across the world. We talk about her recent visit to Improvfest Ireland and meeting so many of the improvisers she met online! Such an exciting experience and I am totes jealous! Karla talks about how all of her work and all of her art is about building experiences. And I just think that that is the coolest way to look at what she does. Karla Dingle is an amazing force in our improv world and I'm glad to say now that I know her. Support Karla Dingle by staying up to date with her happenings via her linktree -- https://linktr.ee/dingledrama and her instagram -- https://www.instagram.com/DingleDrama/ Take a class with her! Hire her to coach your troupe! She has an upcoming intensive starting February 4, 2023: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/coach-dingle-an-online-observation-notes-improv-intensive-wkarla-dingle-tickets-437428649867?aff=ebdssbonlinesearch You should also check out all the awesome online workshops currently being offered through Queen City Comedy: https://www.queencitycomedy.com/classes-and-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. (production notes: recorded zoom meeting via Rodecaster on 1/23/2023; posted on 1/30/2023)

This week on Yes But Why, I chatted with actor, improviser, and coach Karla Dingle. Karla Dingle has spent her life on the stage. She is an actor and a voiceover artist. You can see her performing improv with Now are the Foxes Improv Comedy, Close Distance Improv, Charlotte Comedy Theater, and Background Noise Musical Improv. ​​ Karla's passion beside performing is teaching and coaching. Currently, Karla is the Education Director and an Instructor at Queen City Comedy in Charlotte, NC in the US. She is also the Improv Director and an Acting Instructor at a local studio in Charlotte, NC. Over the last several years, Karla has instructed students from Peru, Israel, India, Canada, Japan, Europe, South Africa, the Philippines and beyond. ​In our conversation, I learned that Karla is very community focused. From the neighborhood kids she grew up with in Atlanta to the theater kids she performed with at the Trumbull Youth Association, she found her crowd and she stuck with them. And now, as an adult, Karla builds and nurtures communities in Charlotte, NC and beyond. She really knows how to bring people together. I first became aware of Karla during the pandemic when the communication amongst improvisers across the globe was at its peak. The hot spot for the international improv community was online jams hosted by Karla and the Queen City Comedy community. Everyone I was interviewing at the time was abuzz about working with Karla. And by golly, I eventually got brave enough to ask Karla to be a guest on this show. Karla was a total delight. A real dream guest. She tells me how the Queen City Comedy online jams came to be and what it was like to be connected to so many amazing performers across the world. We talk about her recent visit to Improvfest Ireland and meeting so many of the improvisers she met online! Such an exciting experience and I am totes jealous! Karla talks about how all of her work and all of her art is about building experiences. And I just think that that is the coolest way to look at what she does. Karla Dingle is an amazing force in our improv world and I'm glad to say now that I know her. Support Karla Dingle by staying up to date with her happenings via her linktree -- https://linktr.ee/dingledrama and her instagram -- https://www.instagram.com/DingleDrama/ Take a class with her! Hire her to coach your troupe!She has an upcoming intensive starting February 4, 2023: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/coach-dingle-an-online-observation-notes-improv-intensive-wkarla-dingle-tickets-437428649867?aff=ebdssbonlinesearch You should also check out all the awesome online workshops currently being offered through Queen City Comedy: https://www.queencitycomedy.com/classes-and-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. (production notes: recorded zoom meeting via Rodecaster on 1/23/2023; posted on 1/30/2023)

This week on Yes But Why, I was delighted to connect with UK improv leader, Chris Mead. Chris Mead is a full time performer and teacher of improv. He has performed and taught in over 25 countries worldwide. Chris lives in the Surrey Hills of England with his wife, Laura and their dog friend, Radio. A passionate lover of improv, Chris Mead is currently teaching for Hoopla Impro, the largest improv school in the UK, as well as offering numerous indie classes on his own. Chris is one third of the legendary sci-fi improv team, “Project2” and co-founder of “Unmade Theatre Co” which produces theatrical longform shows. During our conversation, Chris connected the dots on his community building superpower. It all started with Chris's first job after school, helping to facilitate workshops and shows at the local Christian center. This was where he first developed his creative skills. But it was the closing of this center that inspired Chris and his sister to produce their own weeklong theater camp to support the community that had lost their performance home. Years later, Chris used his skills producing theater and building communities to create an online home for improvisers during the pandemic. Alongside creative partner, Katy Schutte, Chris founded the “International Improv Station” (formerly The Improv Place UK). Chris is a creative through and through. He developed characters when he was a kid and made trading cards for them. A few years back, he used his creative skills to help save the world when he worked at an NGO focused on poverty eradication. And now, he's currently writing a book about improv! In the story of his journey, all moves Chris made were fueled by his love for theater and community. Support Chris Mead by joining his newsletter and finding out all the cool new things he's got going on! Chris mentioned to me that he is developing a new improv community in his current hometown of Farnham so keep an eye out for that! You can also take classes with Chris Mead through Hoopla Impro in London! In our chat, he mentioned the online workshop he led recently called “Improv Cinema Club” and that one would be really cool to catch next time it comes around! 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. (production notes: recorded zoom meeting via Rodecaster on 12/15/2022; posted on 12/19/2022)

This week on Yes But Why, I was delighted to connect with UK improv leader, Chris Mead. Chris Mead is a full time performer and teacher of improv. He has performed and taught in over 25 countries worldwide. Chris lives in the Surrey Hills of England with his wife, Laura and their dog friend, Radio. A passionate lover of improv, Chris Mead is currently teaching for Hoopla Impro, the largest improv school in the UK, as well as offering numerous indie classes on his own. Chris is one third of the legendary sci-fi improv team, “Project2” and co-founder of “Unmade Theatre Co” which produces theatrical longform shows. During our conversation, Chris connected the dots on his community building superpower. It all started with Chris's first job after school, helping to facilitate workshops and shows at the local Christian center. This was where he first developed his creative skills. But it was the closing of this center that inspired Chris and his sister to produce their own weeklong theater camp to support the community that had lost their performance home. Years later, Chris used his skills producing theater and building communities to create an online home for improvisers during the pandemic. Alongside creative partner, Katy Schutte, Chris founded the “International Improv Station” (formerly The Improv Place UK). Chris is a creative through and through. He developed characters when he was a kid and made trading cards for them. A few years back, he used his creative skills to help save the world when he worked at an NGO focused on poverty eradication. And now, he's currently writing a book about improv! In the story of his journey, all moves Chris made were fueled by his love for theater and community. Support Chris Mead by joining his newsletter and finding out all the cool new things he's got going on! Chris mentioned to me that he is developing a new improv community in his current hometown of Farnham so keep an eye out for that! You can also take classes with Chris Mead through Hoopla Impro in London! In our chat, he mentioned the online workshop he led recently called “Improv Cinema Club” and that one would be really cool to catch next time it comes around! 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. (production notes: recorded zoom meeting via Rodecaster on 12/15/2022; posted on 12/19/2022)

This week on Yes But Why, I was delighted to connect with UK improv leader, Chris Mead. Chris Mead is a full time performer and teacher of improv. He has performed and taught in over 25 countries worldwide. Chris lives in the Surrey Hills of England with his wife, Laura and their dog friend, Radio. A passionate lover of improv, Chris Mead is currently teaching for Hoopla Impro, the largest improv school in the UK, as well as offering numerous indie classes on his own. Chris is one third of the legendary sci-fi improv team, “Project2” and co-founder of “Unmade Theatre Co” which produces theatrical longform shows. During our conversation, Chris connected the dots on his community building superpower. It all started with Chris's first job after school, helping to facilitate workshops and shows at the local Christian center. This was where he first developed his creative skills. But it was the closing of this center that inspired Chris and his sister to produce their own weeklong theater camp to support the community that had lost their performance home. Years later, Chris used his skills producing theater and building communities to create an online home for improvisers during the pandemic. Alongside creative partner, Katy Schutte, Chris founded the “International Improv Station” (formerly The Improv Place UK). Chris is a creative through and through. He developed characters when he was a kid and made trading cards for them. A few years back, he used his creative skills to help save the world when he worked at an NGO focused on poverty eradication. And now, he's currently writing a book about improv! In the story of his journey, all moves Chris made were fueled by his love for theater and community. Support Chris Mead by joining his newsletter and finding out all the cool new things he's got going on! Chris mentioned to me that he is developing a new improv community in his current hometown of Farnham so keep an eye out for that! You can also take classes with Chris Mead through Hoopla Impro in London! In our chat, he mentioned the online workshop he led recently called “Improv Cinema Club” and that one would be really cool to catch next time it comes around! 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. (production notes: recorded zoom meeting via Rodecaster on 12/15/2022; posted on 12/19/2022)

This week on Yes But Why, I was delighted to connect with UK improv leader, Chris Mead. Chris Mead is a full time performer and teacher of improv. He has performed and taught in over 25 countries worldwide. Chris lives in the Surrey Hills of England with his wife, Laura and their dog friend, Radio. A passionate lover of improv, Chris Mead is currently teaching for Hoopla Impro, the largest improv school in the UK, as well as offering numerous indie classes on his own. Chris is one third of the legendary sci-fi improv team, “Project2” and co-founder of “Unmade Theatre Co” which produces theatrical longform shows. During our conversation, Chris connected the dots on his community building superpower. It all started with Chris's first job after school, helping to facilitate workshops and shows at the local Christian center. This was where he first developed his creative skills. But it was the closing of this center that inspired Chris and his sister to produce their own weeklong theater camp to support the community that had lost their performance home. Years later, Chris used his skills producing theater and building communities to create an online home for improvisers during the pandemic. Alongside creative partner, Katy Schutte, Chris founded the “International Improv Station” (formerly The Improv Place UK). Chris is a creative through and through. He developed characters when he was a kid and made trading cards for them. A few years back, he used his creative skills to help save the world when he worked at an NGO focused on poverty eradication. And now, he's currently writing a book about improv! In the story of his journey, all moves Chris made were fueled by his love for theater and community. Support Chris Mead by joining his newsletter and finding out all the cool new things he's got going on! Chris mentioned to me that he is developing a new improv community in his current hometown of Farnham so keep an eye out for that! You can also take classes with Chris Mead through Hoopla Impro in London! In our chat, he mentioned the online workshop he led recently called “Improv Cinema Club” and that one would be really cool to catch next time it comes around! 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. (production notes: recorded zoom meeting via Rodecaster on 12/15/2022; posted on 12/19/2022)

This week on Yes But Why, I chatted with Reid Messerschmidt, a writer and podcaster from Fargo, ND. Reid Messerschmidt features his writings as well as his performance thereof on his show, The Irrationally Exuberant Podcast. He is a hilariously fun person to follow on social media. You can find Reid scouring thrift shops (or the river) for the best and weirdest of treasures. You can also catch him on ebay selling the wacky wares he is not allowed to keep in his house. Reid has always been a writer. He started early, writing his first book on the topic of candy vs fruit, as a school assignment. (You can guess which way baby Reid was arguing.) In my conversation with Reid, we talked a lot about how his early years drinking sapped him of his creativity. He opened up to me about his personal journey and what it took for him to regain control of his life. Reid jokingly mentioned that sobriety opened up a lot of free time so that's why he got back into writing. And he started Irrationally Exuberant Podcast as a way to get an audience for his writing. I think that's a really smart idea and honestly, it has worked really well. He has a strong following who appreciate his stories and the way he performs them. During our chat, we made fun of ourselves and each other throughout. Reid was funny and sarcastic. We had a good time. Support Reid by listening to The Irrationally Exuberant Podcast. You can also support Reid's obsession with odd thrift store scores by buying some from him via ebay. I actually got an awesome (and creepy) music box from him and I love it too much. 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. (production notes: recorded zoom meeting via Rodecaster on 11/7/2022; posted on 12/5/2022)

This week on Yes But Why, I chatted with Reid Messerschmidt, a writer and podcaster from Fargo, ND. Reid Messerschmidt features his writings as well as his performance thereof on his show, The Irrationally Exuberant Podcast. He is a hilariously fun person to follow on social media. You can find Reid scouring thrift shops (or the river) for the best and weirdest of treasures. You can also catch him on ebay selling the wacky wares he is not allowed to keep in his house. Reid has always been a writer. He started early, writing his first book on the topic of candy vs fruit, as a school assignment. (You can guess which way baby Reid was arguing.)In my conversation with Reid, we talked a lot about how his early years drinking sapped him of his creativity. He opened up to me about his personal journey and what it took for him to regain control of his life. Reid jokingly mentioned that sobriety opened up a lot of free time so that's why he got back into writing. And he started Irrationally Exuberant Podcast as a way to get an audience for his writing. I think that's a really smart idea and honestly, it has worked really well. He has a strong following who appreciate his stories and the way he performs them. During our chat, we made fun of ourselves and each other throughout. Reid was funny and sarcastic. We had a good time. Support Reid by listening to The Irrationally Exuberant Podcast. You can also support Reid's obsession with odd thrift store scores by buying some from him via ebay. I actually got an awesome (and creepy) music box from him and I love it too much. 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. (production notes: recorded zoom meeting via Rodecaster on 11/7/2022; posted on 12/5/2022)

This week on Yes But Why, I chatted with Reid Messerschmidt, a writer and podcaster from Fargo, ND. Reid Messerschmidt features his writings as well as his performance thereof on his show, The Irrationally Exuberant Podcast. He is a hilariously fun person to follow on social media. You can find Reid scouring thrift shops (or the river) for the best and weirdest of treasures. You can also catch him on ebay selling the wacky wares he is not allowed to keep in his house. Reid has always been a writer. He started early, writing his first book on the topic of candy vs fruit, as a school assignment. (You can guess which way baby Reid was arguing.) In my conversation with Reid, we talked a lot about how his early years drinking sapped him of his creativity. He opened up to me about his personal journey and what it took for him to regain control of his life. Reid jokingly mentioned that sobriety opened up a lot of free time so that's why he got back into writing. And he started Irrationally Exuberant Podcast as a way to get an audience for his writing. I think that's a really smart idea and honestly, it has worked really well. He has a strong following who appreciate his stories and the way he performs them. During our chat, we made fun of ourselves and each other throughout. Reid was funny and sarcastic. We had a good time. Support Reid by listening to The Irrationally Exuberant Podcast. You can also support Reid's obsession with odd thrift store scores by buying some from him via ebay. I actually got an awesome (and creepy) music box from him and I love it too much. 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. (production notes: recorded zoom meeting via Rodecaster on 11/7/2022; posted on 12/5/2022)

This week on Yes But Why, I chatted with Reid Messerschmidt, a writer and podcaster from Fargo, ND. Reid Messerschmidt features his writings as well as his performance thereof on his show, The Irrationally Exuberant Podcast. He is a hilariously fun person to follow on social media. You can find Reid scouring thrift shops (or the river) for the best and weirdest of treasures. You can also catch him on ebay selling the wacky wares he is not allowed to keep in his house. Reid has always been a writer. He started early, writing his first book on the topic of candy vs fruit, as a school assignment. (You can guess which way baby Reid was arguing.) In my conversation with Reid, we talked a lot about how his early years drinking sapped him of his creativity. He opened up to me about his personal journey and what it took for him to regain control of his life. Reid jokingly mentioned that sobriety opened up a lot of free time so that's why he got back into writing. And he started Irrationally Exuberant Podcast as a way to get an audience for his writing. I think that's a really smart idea and honestly, it has worked really well. He has a strong following who appreciate his stories and the way he performs them. During our chat, we made fun of ourselves and each other throughout. Reid was funny and sarcastic. We had a good time. Support Reid by listening to The Irrationally Exuberant Podcast. You can also support Reid's obsession with odd thrift store scores by buying some from him via ebay. I actually got an awesome (and creepy) music box from him and I love it too much. 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. (production notes: recorded zoom meeting via Rodecaster on 11/7/2022; posted on 12/5/2022)

This week on Yes But Why, I chatted with my friend Jess Lonett, an enthusiastic human who loves collaborating with other enthusiastic humans. Jess Lonett is a cat mom, a glitter enthusiast, a #swiftie, an inspiration hoarder, a playlist curator, a donut lover, and an improviser based in Austin, Texas! She is what some may call a human woman who likes attention and has been capturing the attention of friends, family and strangers alike in a variety of ways since birth. She's won silver medals as a competitive dancer, played Goldilocks as the lead in her 3rd grade class play, done kicklines in high school football halftime shows on the pom pom squad, and been knocked down as a jammer on a small town roller derby team. She performs comedy regularly at Fallout Theater and she writes a blog called “!!!” (for real though, the website is http://www.exclamationpointexclamationpointexclamationpoint.com/ ) Turns out, Jess is from Pittsburgh; and, even though I didn't know that until this chat, I should have assumed. She is as delightful and wonderfully creative as the other amazing ladies I've interviewed from Pittsburgh. Amazing town. Jess and I are compatriots from the Austin improv scene. I have had the pleasure of coaching Jess in improv and directing her in sketch comedy a few times over the years. In our conversation, Jess told me that she started as a performer like so many of us do – choreographing dances in her basement. We shared notes on both winning lip sync contests back in the day. And then, Jess told me she hosted a radio show in college called “Groovy Cupcakes.” Now that is pretty much the most perfectly Jess thing I've ever heard. Jess loves music; that's how she got to Austin. She is a lover of mixtapes (aren't we all) and she is a curator of some amazing Spotify playlists. Jess is an appreciator of art and the people who make art. That is something we really bond over and share. Jess has such a welcoming energy. She told me that she is community first, creativity second, when it comes to her extracurricular activities. From improv to volleyball to dance, Jess brings the joy to every scene she encounters. It's all about connecting with people. And Jess is an amazing success at that. You can support Jess Lonett at Fallout Theater in Austin Texas where, on the last Wednesday of the month at 8PM, she will be performing in Teenage Dirtbag. You can also connect with her on Instagram by following @itsjesslonett. 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. (production notes: recorded zoom meeting via Rodecaster on 10/24/2022; posted on 11/21/2022)

This week on Yes But Why, I chatted with my friend Jess Lonett, an enthusiastic human who loves collaborating with other enthusiastic humans. Jess Lonett is a cat mom, a glitter enthusiast, a #swiftie, an inspiration hoarder, a playlist curator, a donut lover, and an improviser based in Austin, Texas! She is what some may call a human woman who likes attention and has been capturing the attention of friends, family and strangers alike in a variety of ways since birth. She's won silver medals as a competitive dancer, played Goldilocks as the lead in her 3rd grade class play, done kicklines in high school football halftime shows on the pom pom squad, and been knocked down as a jammer on a small town roller derby team. She performs comedy regularly at Fallout Theater and she writes a blog called “!!!” (for real though, the website is http://www.exclamationpointexclamationpointexclamationpoint.com/ ) Turns out, Jess is from Pittsburgh; and, even though I didn't know that until this chat, I should have assumed. She is as delightful and wonderfully creative as the other amazing ladies I've interviewed from Pittsburgh. Amazing town. Jess and I are compatriots from the Austin improv scene. I have had the pleasure of coaching Jess in improv and directing her in sketch comedy a few times over the years. In our conversation, Jess told me that she started as a performer like so many of us do – choreographing dances in her basement. We shared notes on both winning lip sync contests back in the day. And then, Jess told me she hosted a radio show in college called “Groovy Cupcakes.” Now that is pretty much the most perfectly Jess thing I've ever heard. Jess loves music; that's how she got to Austin. She is a lover of mixtapes (aren't we all) and she is a curator of some amazing Spotify playlists. Jess is an appreciator of art and the people who make art. That is something we really bond over and share. Jess has such a welcoming energy. She told me that she is community first, creativity second, when it comes to her extracurricular activities. From improv to volleyball to dance, Jess brings the joy to every scene she encounters. It's all about connecting with people. And Jess is an amazing success at that. You can support Jess Lonett at Fallout Theater in Austin Texas where, on the last Wednesday of the month at 8PM, she will be performing in Teenage Dirtbag. You can also connect with her on Instagram by following @itsjesslonett. 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. (production notes: recorded zoom meeting via Rodecaster on 10/24/2022; posted on 11/21/2022)

This week on Yes But Why, I chatted with my friend Jess Lonett, an enthusiastic human who loves collaborating with other enthusiastic humans. Jess Lonett is a cat mom, a glitter enthusiast, a #swiftie, an inspiration hoarder, a playlist curator, a donut lover, and an improviser based in Austin, Texas! She is what some may call a human woman who likes attention and has been capturing the attention of friends, family and strangers alike in a variety of ways since birth. She's won silver medals as a competitive dancer, played Goldilocks as the lead in her 3rd grade class play, done kicklines in high school football halftime shows on the pom pom squad, and been knocked down as a jammer on a small town roller derby team. She performs comedy regularly at Fallout Theater and she writes a blog called “!!!” (for real though, the website is http://www.exclamationpointexclamationpointexclamationpoint.com/ ) Turns out, Jess is from Pittsburgh; and, even though I didn't know that until this chat, I should have assumed. She is as delightful and wonderfully creative as the other amazing ladies I've interviewed from Pittsburgh. Amazing town. Jess and I are compatriots from the Austin improv scene. I have had the pleasure of coaching Jess in improv and directing her in sketch comedy a few times over the years. In our conversation, Jess told me that she started as a performer like so many of us do – choreographing dances in her basement. We shared notes on both winning lip sync contests back in the day. And then, Jess told me she hosted a radio show in college called “Groovy Cupcakes.” Now that is pretty much the most perfectly Jess thing I've ever heard. Jess loves music; that's how she got to Austin. She is a lover of mixtapes (aren't we all) and she is a curator of some amazing Spotify playlists. Jess is an appreciator of art and the people who make art. That is something we really bond over and share. Jess has such a welcoming energy. She told me that she is community first, creativity second, when it comes to her extracurricular activities. From improv to volleyball to dance, Jess brings the joy to every scene she encounters. It's all about connecting with people. And Jess is an amazing success at that. You can support Jess Lonett at Fallout Theater in Austin Texas where, on the last Wednesday of the month at 8PM, she will be performing in Teenage Dirtbag. You can also connect with her on Instagram by following @itsjesslonett. 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. (production notes: recorded zoom meeting via Rodecaster on 10/24/2022; posted on 11/21/2022)

This week on Yes But Why, I chatted with my friend Jess Lonett, an enthusiastic human who loves collaborating with other enthusiastic humans.Jess Lonett is a cat mom, a glitter enthusiast, a #swiftie, an inspiration hoarder, a playlist curator, a donut lover, and an improviser based in Austin, Texas! She is what some may call a human woman who likes attention and has been capturing the attention of friends, family and strangers alike in a variety of ways since birth. She's won silver medals as a competitive dancer, played Goldilocks as the lead in her 3rd grade class play, done kicklines in high school football halftime shows on the pom pom squad, and been knocked down as a jammer on a small town roller derby team. She performs comedy regularly at Fallout Theater and she writes a blog called “!!!” (for real though, the website is http://www.exclamationpointexclamationpointexclamationpoint.com/ )Turns out, Jess is from Pittsburgh; and, even though I didn't know that until this chat, I should have assumed. She is as delightful and wonderfully creative as the other amazing ladies I've interviewed from Pittsburgh. Amazing town. Jess and I are compatriots from the Austin improv scene. I have had the pleasure of coaching Jess in improv and directing her in sketch comedy a few times over the years. In our conversation, Jess told me that she started as a performer like so many of us do – choreographing dances in her basement. We shared notes on both winning lip sync contests back in the day. And then, Jess told me she hosted a radio show in college called “Groovy Cupcakes.” Now that is pretty much the most perfectly Jess thing I've ever heard. Jess loves music; that's how she got to Austin. She is a lover of mixtapes (aren't we all) and she is a curator of some amazing Spotify playlists. Jess is an appreciator of art and the people who make art. That is something we really bond over and share. Jess has such a welcoming energy. She told me that she is community first, creativity second, when it comes to her extracurricular activities. From improv to volleyball to dance, Jess brings the joy to every scene she encounters. It's all about connecting with people. And Jess is an amazing success at that. You can support Jess Lonett at Fallout Theater in Austin Texas where, on the last Wednesday of the month at 8PM, she will be performing in Teenage Dirtbag. You can also connect with her on Instagram by following @itsjesslonett.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. (production notes: recorded zoom meeting via Rodecaster on 10/24/2022; posted on 11/21/2022)

This week on Yes But Why, listen in to my conversation with Kristin Henn, the owner and director of Excused Absence Comedy and Move Your Tale. Kristin Henn began hanging out backstage while her mom stage-managed when she was 5 years old. By 6, she found her way onto the stage. Kristin's theatrical education started with storytelling, theater history, directing and creative drama. When she discovered Improv, a switch flipped. She had found her path. She began her study of Improv at ColdTowne Theater and remains a loyal member of that community, teaching, directing, and performing regularly. Currently, Kristin's professional life revolves around teaching and producing Improv for youth as Excused Absence Comedy and Move Your Tale. In our conversation, Kristin and I chatted about confidence, listening, and making up stories. Kristin told me how her experience with a tornado early in life shaped her whole world view. We discussed improv and how much it saved us both! We talked about deal with with trauma and the healing power of a conscientious teacher. Kristin told me how she loves to create fun experiences and new adventures!If you want to support Kristin Henn and you are interested in Improv for youth, check out the Excused Absence website for class listings, show dates, festival details, and more!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. (production notes: recorded zoom meeting via Rodecaster on 10/5/2022; posted on 11/6/2022)

This week on Yes But Why, listen in to my conversation with Kristin Henn, the owner and director of Excused Absence Comedy and Move Your Tale. Kristin Henn began hanging out backstage while her mom stage-managed when she was 5 years old. By 6, she found her way onto the stage. Kristin's theatrical education started with storytelling, theater history, directing and creative drama. When she discovered Improv, a switch flipped. She had found her path. She began her study of Improv at ColdTowne Theater and remains a loyal member of that community, teaching, directing, and performing regularly. Currently, Kristin's professional life revolves around teaching and producing Improv for youth as Excused Absence Comedy and Move Your Tale. In our conversation, Kristin and I chatted about confidence, listening, and making up stories. Kristin told me how her experience with a tornado early in life shaped her whole world view. We discussed improv and how much it saved us both! We talked about deal with with trauma and the healing power of a conscientious teacher. Kristin told me how she loves to create fun experiences and new adventures! If you want to support Kristin Henn and you are interested in Improv for youth, check out the Excused Absence website for class listings, show dates, festival details, and more! 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. (production notes: recorded zoom meeting via Rodecaster on 10/5/2022; posted on 11/6/2022)

This week on Yes But Why, listen in to my conversation with Kristin Henn, the owner and director of Excused Absence Comedy and Move Your Tale. Kristin Henn began hanging out backstage while her mom stage-managed when she was 5 years old. By 6, she found her way onto the stage. Kristin's theatrical education started with storytelling, theater history, directing and creative drama. When she discovered Improv, a switch flipped. She had found her path. She began her study of Improv at ColdTowne Theater and remains a loyal member of that community, teaching, directing, and performing regularly. Currently, Kristin's professional life revolves around teaching and producing Improv for youth as Excused Absence Comedy and Move Your Tale. In our conversation, Kristin and I chatted about confidence, listening, and making up stories. Kristin told me how her experience with a tornado early in life shaped her whole world view. We discussed improv and how much it saved us both! We talked about deal with with trauma and the healing power of a conscientious teacher. Kristin told me how she loves to create fun experiences and new adventures! If you want to support Kristin Henn and you are interested in Improv for youth, check out the Excused Absence website for class listings, show dates, festival details, and more! 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. (production notes: recorded zoom meeting via Rodecaster on 10/5/2022; posted on 11/6/2022)

This week on Yes But Why, listen in to my conversation with Kristen Henn, the owner and director of Excused Absence Comedy and Move Your Tale. Kristin Henn began hanging out backstage while her mom stage-managed when she was 5 years old. By 6, she found her way onto the stage. Kristen's theatrical education started with storytelling, theater history, directing and creative drama. When she discovered Improv, a switch flipped. She had found her path. She began her study of Improv at ColdTowne Theater and remains a loyal member of that community, teaching, directing, and performing regularly. Currently, Kristin's professional life revolves around teaching and producing Improv for youth as Excused Absence Comedy and Move Your Tale. In our conversation, Kristen and I chatted about confidence, listening, and making up stories. Kristen told me how her experience with a tornado early in life shaped her whole world view. We discussed improv and how much it saved us both! We talked about deal with with trauma and the healing power of a conscientious teacher. Kristen told me how she loves to create fun experiences and new adventures! If you want to support Kristen Henn and you are interested in Improv for youth, check out the Excused Absence website for class listings, show dates, festival details, and more! 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. (production notes: recorded zoom meeting via Rodecaster on 10/5/2022; posted on 11/6/2022)

This week on Yes But Why, I present to you my interview with improviser, Katy Schutte. Katy Schutte has performed and taught improvisation in 20+ countries across five continents. She is a Head Teacher and Curriculum Writer for Hoopla, the UK's biggest improv school. Katy authored The Improviser's Way: A Longform Workbook, published by Nick Hern Books. She is also a commercial and voiceover actor. Katy is a contributing writer for Cards Against Humanity as well as an actor/writer on the web series, Sideliners. She was resident songwriter on Sean and Robot's Comedy Circuit podcast; she was co-writer on the AR immersive game Beth's Legacy in association with StoryFutures and CreativeXR; and she was a writer/improv director/performer on The Galaxicle Implosions, a multi-platform live virtual reality show with Fandco and Flipside. Katy is currently working on a play based on her experience as an artist in residence with The Arctic Circle Project 2022 and is a recipient of the Peggy Ramsay Foundation Grant. In my conversation with Katy, she told me all the ways she has attempted to find nerdy friends. She had some really good ideas. Once a tiny child sitting in a chair up in a tree reading a book, Katy Schutte is now a successful and often sought-after improv teacher from the UK. Katy has made a name for herself in the international improv community with her online improv and writing workshops! I am currently taking a zoom workshop with her called, “The Mythic Improv Journey”! Katy has been a tour de force in the improv scene long before the pandemic. In an effort to bolster her own improv scene in Brighton, Katy studied improv in the US and then soaked up as much improv education as she could from all around her. We had a great conversation about the hard work that goes into developing and being part of an improv scene. We talked about how to handle conflict and how to make career decisions. Katy spoke on using your own values to navigate big decisions. She made it sound really easy. Katy is such an inspiration to me. She is a stalwart educator in the international improv community and the effort she puts in to all of her theatrical endeavors is just plain awesome. In my time taking class with her, Katy has created a safe space and taught us some really amazing things about myth! I've enjoyed every bit of my time spent with her and I am happy she is out there for all of you to hopefully experience as well. Support Katy Schutte by joining her newsletter – you'll then receive information from her about all the workshops she is teaching and any shows she is participating in! Katy is teaching an upcoming “Write your Own Solo Show” workshop that starts soon and it is available ONLINE! Sign up now! You should also buy her book, The Improviser's Way: A Longform Workbook, to add to your theatre education library. 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. (production notes: recorded zoom meeting via Rodecaster on 10/3/2022; posted on 10/24/2022)

This week on Yes But Why, I present to you my interview with improviser, Katy Schutte. Katy Schutte has performed and taught improvisation in 20+ countries across five continents. She is a Head Teacher and Curriculum Writer for Hoopla, the UK's biggest improv school. Katy authored The Improviser's Way: A Longform Workbook, published by Nick Hern Books. She is also a commercial and voiceover actor. Katy is a contributing writer for Cards Against Humanity as well as an actor/writer on the web series, Sideliners. She was resident songwriter on Sean and Robot's Comedy Circuit podcast; she was co-writer on the AR immersive game Beth's Legacy in association with StoryFutures and CreativeXR; and she was a writer/improv director/performer on The Galaxicle Implosions, a multi-platform live virtual reality show with Fandco and Flipside.Katy is currently working on a play based on her experience as an artist in residence with The Arctic Circle Project 2022 and is a recipient of the Peggy Ramsay Foundation Grant.In my conversation with Katy, she told me all the ways she has attempted to find nerdy friends. She had some really good ideas. Once a tiny child sitting in a chair up in a tree reading a book, Katy Schutte is now a successful and often sought-after improv teacher from the UK. Katy has made a name for herself in the international improv community with her online improv and writing workshops! I am currently taking a zoom workshop with her called, “The Mythic Improv Journey”!Katy has been a tour de force in the improv scene long before the pandemic. In an effort to bolster her own improv scene in Brighton, Katy studied improv in the US and then soaked up as much improv education as she could from all around her.We had a great conversation about the hard work that goes into developing and being part of an improv scene. We talked about how to handle conflict and how to make career decisions. Katy spoke on using your own values to navigate big decisions. She made it sound really easy. Katy is such an inspiration to me. She is a stalwart educator in the international improv community and the effort she puts in to all of her theatrical endeavors is just plain awesome. In my time taking class with her, Katy has created a safe space and taught us some really amazing things about myth! I've enjoyed every bit of my time spent with her and I am happy she is out there for all of you to hopefully experience as well. Support Katy Schutte by joining her newsletter – you'll then receive information from her about all the workshops she is teaching and any shows she is participating in! Katy is teaching an upcoming “Write your Own Solo Show” workshop that starts soon and it is available ONLINE! Sign up now! You should also buy her book, The Improviser's Way: A Longform Workbook, to add to your theatre education library. 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. (production notes: recorded zoom meeting via Rodecaster on 10/3/2022; posted on 10/24/2022)

This week on Yes But Why, I present to you my interview with improviser, Katy Schutte. Katy Schutte has performed and taught improvisation in 20+ countries across five continents. She is a Head Teacher and Curriculum Writer for Hoopla, the UK's biggest improv school. Katy authored The Improviser's Way: A Longform Workbook, published by Nick Hern Books. She is also a commercial and voiceover actor. Katy is a contributing writer for Cards Against Humanity as well as an actor/writer on the web series, Sideliners. She was resident songwriter on Sean and Robot's Comedy Circuit podcast; she was co-writer on the AR immersive game Beth's Legacy in association with StoryFutures and CreativeXR; and she was a writer/improv director/performer on The Galaxicle Implosions, a multi-platform live virtual reality show with Fandco and Flipside. Katy is currently working on a play based on her experience as an artist in residence with The Arctic Circle Project 2022 and is a recipient of the Peggy Ramsay Foundation Grant. In my conversation with Katy, she told me all the ways she has attempted to find nerdy friends. She had some really good ideas. Once a tiny child sitting in a chair up in a tree reading a book, Katy Schutte is now a successful and often sought-after improv teacher from the UK. Katy has made a name for herself in the international improv community with her online improv and writing workshops! I am currently taking a zoom workshop with her called, “The Mythic Improv Journey”! Katy has been a tour de force in the improv scene long before the pandemic. In an effort to bolster her own improv scene in Brighton, Katy studied improv in the US and then soaked up as much improv education as she could from all around her. We had a great conversation about the hard work that goes into developing and being part of an improv scene. We talked about how to handle conflict and how to make career decisions. Katy spoke on using your own values to navigate big decisions. She made it sound really easy. Katy is such an inspiration to me. She is a stalwart educator in the international improv community and the effort she puts in to all of her theatrical endeavors is just plain awesome. In my time taking class with her, Katy has created a safe space and taught us some really amazing things about myth! I've enjoyed every bit of my time spent with her and I am happy she is out there for all of you to hopefully experience as well. Support Katy Schutte by joining her newsletter – you'll then receive information from her about all the workshops she is teaching and any shows she is participating in! Katy is teaching an upcoming “Write your Own Solo Show” workshop that starts soon and it is available ONLINE! Sign up now! You should also buy her book, The Improviser's Way: A Longform Workbook, to add to your theatre education library. 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. (production notes: recorded zoom meeting via Rodecaster on 10/3/2022; posted on 10/24/2022)

This week on Yes But Why, I present to you my interview with improviser, Katy Schutte. Katy Schutte has performed and taught improvisation in 20+ countries across five continents. She is a Head Teacher and Curriculum Writer for Hoopla, the UK's biggest improv school. Katy authored The Improviser's Way: A Longform Workbook, published by Nick Hern Books. She is also a commercial and voiceover actor. Katy is a contributing writer for Cards Against Humanity as well as an actor/writer on the web series, Sideliners. She was resident songwriter on Sean and Robot's Comedy Circuit podcast; she was co-writer on the AR immersive game Beth's Legacy in association with StoryFutures and CreativeXR; and she was a writer/improv director/performer on The Galaxicle Implosions, a multi-platform live virtual reality show with Fandco and Flipside. Katy is currently working on a play based on her experience as an artist in residence with The Arctic Circle Project 2022 and is a recipient of the Peggy Ramsay Foundation Grant. In my conversation with Katy, she told me all the ways she has attempted to find nerdy friends. She had some really good ideas. Once a tiny child sitting in a chair up in a tree reading a book, Katy Schutte is now a successful and often sought-after improv teacher from the UK. Katy has made a name for herself in the international improv community with her online improv and writing workshops! I am currently taking a zoom workshop with her called, “The Mythic Improv Journey”! Katy has been a tour de force in the improv scene long before the pandemic. In an effort to bolster her own improv scene in Brighton, Katy studied improv in the US and then soaked up as much improv education as she could from all around her. We had a great conversation about the hard work that goes into developing and being part of an improv scene. We talked about how to handle conflict and how to make career decisions. Katy spoke on using your own values to navigate big decisions. She made it sound really easy. Katy is such an inspiration to me. She is a stalwart educator in the international improv community and the effort she puts in to all of her theatrical endeavors is just plain awesome. In my time taking class with her, Katy has created a safe space and taught us some really amazing things about myth! I've enjoyed every bit of my time spent with her and I am happy she is out there for all of you to hopefully experience as well. Support Katy Schutte by joining her newsletter – you'll then receive information from her about all the workshops she is teaching and any shows she is participating in! Katy is teaching an upcoming “Write your Own Solo Show” workshop that starts soon and it is available ONLINE! Sign up now! You should also buy her book, The Improviser's Way: A Longform Workbook, to add to your theatre education library. 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. (production notes: recorded zoom meeting via Rodecaster on 10/3/2022; posted on 10/24/2022)

This week on Yes But Why, I had a lovely time chatting with Maddie Cordovano, the newest Conservatory Director at Fallout Theater in Austin. Maddie Cordovano has been an improviser for a little over 14 years. She trained at iO and The Second City in Chicago before moving to Austin where she signed with her first agent and wrote her first solo show. She is now the new Conservatory Director at Fallout Theater and is working to pursue a career in voice over acting. You can catch her going wild on stage (and off) all over the city but mostly at her show “Pioneers” on Saturday nights at Fallout.In our conversation, Maddie talked about having lots of diverse interests and dipping her toes into lots. She definitely has a creative thread throughout them all but deciding on one course of study was hard. Maddie was always doing theater growing up and at college but she, like so many of us, didn't think of it as a career option. After an amazing experience writing and acting in a play in Spain, Maddie decided that she should put some effort into creative pursuits. She moved to Chicago and immersed herself in the improv scene. She learned a lot from that experience, not only about her own creative skills but also about her administrative abilities. Maddie is a welcoming soul and she really loves bringing people together and organizing communities. She shared how excited she is to have joined the Fallout staff. We bond over holding the same job in the same space, many years apart, and how special it is to be the first person to connect with incoming artists. Support Maddie by taking classes at Fallout Theater and by attending (or performing in) her weekly improv show, Pioneers. 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. (production notes: recorded zoom meeting via Rodecaster on 9/26/2022; posted on 10/10/2022)

This week on Yes But Why, I had a lovely time chatting with Maddie Cordovano, the newest Conservatory Director at Fallout Theater in Austin. Maddie Cordovano has been an improviser for a little over 14 years. She trained at iO and The Second City in Chicago before moving to Austin where she signed with her first agent and wrote her first solo show. She is now the new Conservatory Director at Fallout Theater and is working to pursue a career in voice over acting. You can catch her going wild on stage (and off) all over the city but mostly at her show “Pioneers” on Saturday nights at Fallout. In our conversation, Maddie talked about having lots of diverse interests and dipping her toes into lots. She definitely has a creative thread throughout them all but deciding on one course of study was hard. Maddie was always doing theater growing up and at college but she, like so many of us, didn't think of it as a career option. After an amazing experience writing and acting in a play in Spain, Maddie decided that she should put some effort into creative pursuits. She moved to Chicago and immersed herself in the improv scene. She learned a lot from that experience, not only about her own creative skills but also about her administrative abilities. Maddie is a welcoming soul and she really loves bringing people together and organizing communities. She shared how excited she is to have joined the Fallout staff. We bond over holding the same job in the same space, many years apart, and how special it is to be the first person to connect with incoming artists. Support Maddie by taking classes at Fallout Theater and by attending (or performing in) her weekly improv show, Pioneers. 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. (production notes: recorded zoom meeting via Rodecaster on 9/26/2022; posted on 10/10/2022)

This week on Yes But Why, I had a lovely time chatting with Maddie Cordovano, the newest Conservatory Director at Fallout Theater in Austin. Maddie Cordovano has been an improviser for a little over 14 years. She trained at iO and The Second City in Chicago before moving to Austin where she signed with her first agent and wrote her first solo show. She is now the new Conservatory Director at Fallout Theater and is working to pursue a career in voice over acting. You can catch her going wild on stage (and off) all over the city but mostly at her show “Pioneers” on Saturday nights at Fallout. In our conversation, Maddie talked about having lots of diverse interests and dipping her toes into lots. She definitely has a creative thread throughout them all but deciding on one course of study was hard. Maddie was always doing theater growing up and at college but she, like so many of us, didn't think of it as a career option. After an amazing experience writing and acting in a play in Spain, Maddie decided that she should put some effort into creative pursuits. She moved to Chicago and immersed herself in the improv scene. She learned a lot from that experience, not only about her own creative skills but also about her administrative abilities. Maddie is a welcoming soul and she really loves bringing people together and organizing communities. She shared how excited she is to have joined the Fallout staff. We bond over holding the same job in the same space, many years apart, and how special it is to be the first person to connect with incoming artists. Support Maddie by taking classes at Fallout Theater and by attending (or performing in) her weekly improv show, Pioneers. 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. (production notes: recorded zoom meeting via Rodecaster on 9/26/2022; posted on 10/10/2022)

This week on Yes But Why, I had a lovely time chatting with Maddie Cordovano, the newest Conservatory Director at Fallout Theater in Austin. Maddie Cordovano has been an improviser for a little over 14 years. She trained at iO and The Second City in Chicago before moving to Austin where she signed with her first agent and wrote her first solo show. She is now the new Conservatory Director at Fallout Theater and is working to pursue a career in voice over acting. You can catch her going wild on stage (and off) all over the city but mostly at her show “Pioneers” on Saturday nights at Fallout. In our conversation, Maddie talked about having lots of diverse interests and dipping her toes into lots. She definitely has a creative thread throughout them all but deciding on one course of study was hard. Maddie was always doing theater growing up and at college but she, like so many of us, didn't think of it as a career option. After an amazing experience writing and acting in a play in Spain, Maddie decided that she should put some effort into creative pursuits. She moved to Chicago and immersed herself in the improv scene. She learned a lot from that experience, not only about her own creative skills but also about her administrative abilities. Maddie is a welcoming soul and she really loves bringing people together and organizing communities. She shared how excited she is to have joined the Fallout staff. We bond over holding the same job in the same space, many years apart, and how special it is to be the first person to connect with incoming artists. Support Maddie by taking classes at Fallout Theater and by attending (or performing in) her weekly improv show, Pioneers. 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. (production notes: recorded zoom meeting via Rodecaster on 9/26/2022; posted on 10/10/2022)

This week on Yes But Why, I chatted with Joe Thompson, an improv performer and teacher based out of Sheffield, UK. Joe Thompson started his improv career 9 years ago at the University of Sheffield, where he joined and later became Artistic Director of the university improv society ‘The Shrimps'. Since then, he has been featured in the Leicester Comedy Award nominated long form group ‘Scriptless in Seattle' and performed at the Y-Not Festival with Sturike Comedy. Joe's interest in improv is academic as well – he got his Masters in Arts and Cultural Management and his thesis examined hierarchies within improv communities! (I've got to read that paper!) These days, you can find Joe running monthly nights with his production company Little Chicago as well as teaching and performing at various venues throughout the UK. Joe Thompson currently co-runs and teaches improv with the Spontaneity and Sheffield Steel (SASS Improv) theater group alongside improv colleague, Owen Scrivens.In our conversation, we first explored different styles of storytelling. We did a particular deep dive on JJ Abrams, who I really love! (oh hey, watch out because there are How I Met Your Mother spoilers in the opening discussion). Joe told me how the Pokemon shows he watched as a kid inspired him to create his own storylines at home when playing with his toys. We talk about immersive games and “playing narratively not competitively.” Joe and I connected on so many levels; this was a great conversation about creating art in our current cultural landscape. A big topic that came up multiple times was how sometimes making money with your art can affect the art that you create. We discussed how to find your own voice as an artist. If you live close to Sheffield, you can support Joe Thompson by performing with or attending the shows of Spontaneity and Sheffield Steel (SASS Improv)! Connect with them on Facebook at facebook.com/sassimprov !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. (production notes: recorded zoom meeting via Rodecaster on 9/22/2022; posted on 9/26/2022)

This week on Yes But Why, I talk to improviser and producer, Wendy Salome. Wendy Salome serves Austin's creative community through the Coldtowne Theater. She was the Chief of Staff for ColdTowne Theater from 2018-2020. She improvised with the ColdTowne House Troupe, “Porch Cat” as well as the all-mom troupe, “My Secret Friend.” Wendy produced the B. Iden Payne-nominated show Junior Year Abroad and co-produced My Own Worst Enemy. After a long stretch of pandemic-induced hibernation from creative projects, she emerged in May 2022 to co-produce and play in The Emma Dilemma.When she's not dabbling in the improv world, Wendy works as an Election Clerk for Travis County Elections and serves as the president of the board for Griffin School.In our conversation, Wendy and I talked about how hard it can be to ALLOW yourself to be creative. There is such a strong pull to “have a solid foundation” and “take care of your family” that many of us with creative aspirations have held ourselves back. Still, the pull to be creative is strong. We keep going back to creative projects even though we're working elsewhere. But it's so hard! Why can't we just enjoy ourselves? Why can't we allow ourselves to have this joy?Wendy got introduced to improv when she put her kids into classes with Kristen Henn. Watching her children have so much fun, she got the improv bug. Wendy also found a love of stage management and producing. She thrives on helping others build a show. Wendy talked about being inspired by Nathan Sowell. When he asked her to be involved with The Emma Dilemma, he helped reignite her passion for the arts after the pandemic.We had a great deep dive on how the pandemic affected our creative output. It deflated us. We were sad. We were burnt out. Wendy and I discussed how we clawed our way out of that hole and came back to being the artists that we naturally are. To support Wendy Salome, go to your local elections office and verify that you are registered to vote, then show up and make your voice heard in the 2022 midterms on November 8th (or whenever the next election is in your country!) https://www.rockthevote.org/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. (production notes: recorded zoom meeting via Rodecaster on 9/7/2022; posted on 9/12/2022)

This week on Yes But Why, I chat with Fiona Howat. Fiona Howat is a podcaster who loves improv, storytelling and roleplaying games. As well as doing as much improv as possible (both online and in person), she runs two RPG-related podcasts, 'What I am Rolling?': a twice-monthly RPG one-shot podcast, and 'The DM's Bookclub': where each week the hosts take a topic from Dungeons and Dragons and discuss how they might include it in their roleplaying campaigns!Fiona and I met in a workshop led by the amazing Katy Schutte and had had a little creative interaction before we met via zoom to create this podcast episode together. We hit it off and had a great old time getting to know each other for about an hour before we started the official episode. Safe to say, we are both excitedly chatting throughout so enjoy the enthusiasm!In our conversation, Fiona told me of her love for world building. When she was a child, she derived creative inspiration from Tomb Raider and Japanese RPGs. She loved to explore the worlds she was presented with and create her own stories within it. Later, her storytelling itch was scratched with communities that love Doctor Who and Harry Potter. (Plus, she got to play Quidditch and that was really fun.) After college, Fiona's effort to make new friends was to play sports – dodgeball, basketball, rugby, all sorts of roughhousing fun. A sports friend suggested she do DND. A DND friend suggested she do podcasting. And a podcast guest suggested she take an improv class. So the lesson here is get out there and have fun. Fiona has so many interests and she just gets involved. It's truly admirable. Fiona Howat was such a fun guest. Support her by listening to her two RPG-related podcasts, 'What I am Rolling?' and 'The DM's Bookclub'!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. (production notes: recorded zoom meeting via Rodecaster on 8/4/2022; posted on 9/5/2022)

This week on Yes But Why, I explore the world of artist Ti Malik Coleman. Ti Malik Coleman is a Baltimore based comedian, teacher, storyteller, improviser, and writer. A Black trans performer, he is dedicated to building spaces for black queer and trans folks to come together and share stories as a mechanism of healing and celebration. Ti Malik tells stories to heal, gather and entertain. Ti Malik is an experienced and sought-after Improv teacher and coach. He has taught core and advanced classes with Baltimore Improv Group and Maryland Improv Group. He is a frequent guest instructor for Bad Dog Theater, winning Favorite Guest Instructor in 2020. He started teaching improv in 2015 with the Baltimore Improv teacher training program, and since then has taught over 50 classes and workshops. He was a founding member of an all-Black improv group, Casually Dope, and has been featured as a performer and teacher at improv festivals in Toronto, Chicago, New York, DC, and Philadelphia. As a community artist, Ti Malik teaches students and organizations how to use art to facilitate change. He has led Applied Improv workshops and series in a variety of corporate settings. Applied Improv uses the foundations, concepts and exercises used in improvisational comedy and applies them to business, relationships, healing, and life. Ti Malik's deepest love is working with young people, he has taught improv in many schools and works with organizations to bring improv to youth of all access levels. As a youth organizer and facilitator, Ti Malik created the first youth team at Baltimore Improv Group, he previously served as a site manager for Creative Alliance After School, and he is currently a teaching artist with Arts for Learning Maryland. “Coach Ti” teaches improvisational comedy and theater to all ages. As an arts integration specialist, he uses theater and improv as a vehicle to academic success, in particular ELA and math.In our conversation, Ti Malik shared with me the metaphorical branches of his creative tree: improv, storytelling, community building, teaching, connecting. First, we talked about the divinity in creativity. We laughed about the Artist's Way and how we haven't quite finished it yet! LOL. Ti Malik shared the meditative state of melting into a character. We discussed acting for a bit. Then Ti Malik explained his experience of falling in love with improv. And he mentioned that his plan B to being an artist was to become President.! Thankfully for us, his intelligence and ability to juggle many projects was instead better invested into the arts world. Ti Malik told me about the amazing arts organizations he was a part of in Baltimore: Baltimore Improv Group, Creative Alliance, Arts for Learning Maryland. These groups gave him a place to showcase his talents while helping his community. I think that it's absolutely great that the city of Baltimore has so many artistic opportunities!“Who we are is endless, you know, and I think that being able to show someone that is beautiful; And being able to show myself that is The Thing.”We mused about the never-ending process of getting to know ourselves. Ti Malik credited his artistic community and friends for helping him to become more himself. This was a really lovely, warm episode and I hope you all enjoy it!Support Ti Malik Coleman by hiring him to teach at your school or workplace! Check out ticoleman.com to get connected!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 7/13/2022; posted on 8/29/2022)

This week on Yes But Why, I present my interview with Patti Stiles. Patti Stiles is an actor, director, author, playwright and teacher who specializes in improvisational theatre. She has been working professionally in theatre since 1983. Patti has taught and performed in North and South America, Europe, Scandinavia, Asia, UAE and the Oceania region for numerous improv companies, festivals, and theatre schools as well as the corporate arena.Patti is a member of the ITI Artistic Committee (CA), a founding member of the award-winning Die Nasty – improvised soap opera (CA) and former Artistic Director of Rapid Fire Theatre (CA), Dream Kitchen Theatre (CA) and Impro Melbourne (AU). In 2021, she released her first book, Improvise Freely.In our interview, Patti and I chatted about connecting with an audience, the trappings of success, and the creative processes involved with writing a book. Patti mused about her time spent at the Loose Moose Theater company. She told me that it was inside this theater space that she felt “at home.”Patti discussed her time working with children and how that informed her entire career as a storyteller. She told me about building a career as a performer and a teacher in this industry. Patti shared her experience of writing her book, Improvise Freely, and talked excitedly about how much she can't wait to write her next book. This was an absolutely lovely conversation. It was such an honor to speak to Patti Stiles. You can find Patti Stiles out in the world at Trondheim International Impro Festival, the first international impro festival in Trondheim Norway, from August 28 to September 3.Then later (September 5-12), she'll be in Helsinki, Finland, doing workshops. Check out Patti's schedule on her website and connect with her when she travels near to you or goes to a festival you are also going to!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 6/27/2022; posted on 8/22/2022)

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 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 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 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 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 #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 #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 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 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, 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)

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 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)