49: Lessons From The World Of Improv, with Gary Jones

I think you’ll appreciate the authenticity, honesty, and humour of today’s guest, Gary Jones. Having left his day job behind, Gary's career has been a rollercoaster ride of gigs and hustles, where nothing is guaranteed. He is a legendary improv performer, a seasoned actor, and prolific comedy writer. In this timely episode, Gary shares a powerful message of trusting and having faith in yourself, especially when things seem uncertain. It’s a fun episode. Afterall he is a skilled storyteller. His narratives, derived from his life as an actor, hold valuable lessons that apply to any side hustle you're pursuing. Be sure to catch his hilarious recounting of performing at the home of Bill & Melinda Gates on New Year's Eve.   What You’ll Hear: 03:50 The voice – you need to do this or you’ll regret it 08:01 Discovering that improv is writing on your feet 09:29 Joining Second City Touring Company 11:40 Once on the road Gary found his tribe 12:28 Quit his 9-5 to immerse himself “in a world of uncertainty” 13:46 The foundation of improv is “yes, and” 15:42 Gary doesn’t know what he’ll make one month to the next 21:08 Ryan Stiles opens the door to Vancouver Theatresports and Punchline 23:30 Chatting over dinner turned into brainstorming ideas for a play 24:00 You’ve got to be able to spot opportunities then ACT 27:33 Entered the Vancouver Fringe festival with their play, “World’s Greatest Guy” 32:36 Final show played to a packed house 34:40 Won the Jessie Richardson Theatre Award that year for best play 36:02 You’ve got to be like a hunter with a bow and arrow on the lookout for your next gig 41:05 How you value yourself is going to be reflected in what you earn and how you’re treated 43:35 The original voice of Siri recommends improv classes and there are many transferable skills that’ll help you in whatever industry you’re in 46:01 Richard Side and the start of writing for The Debaters 51:23 Gary’s advice to his film students “Don’t be a dick.” Be generous and be a problem-solver 53:14 The humour and craziness of performing at the home of Bill & Melinda Gates on New Year’s Eve 59:00 Gary’s best tip 1:00:34 If you feel inspired to take action, then take action Connect with Gary: https://twitter.com/thegaryjones Connect with Joan: https://www.instagram.com/joanposivy/ https://www.facebook.com/posivy/ https://www.joanposivy.com/ Be on the show! https://www.joanposivy.com/be-our-guest.html