Podcast Summary: "Laura Wachtel - Why You Should Try IMPROV At Least Once"
How I Built My Small Business | Host: Anne McGinty
Release Date: March 11, 2025
Introduction
In this episode of How I Built My Small Business, host Anne McGinty engages in an insightful conversation with Laura Wachtel, the founder of Zipline Improv. Laura delves into how improv can enhance both personal and professional aspects of life by fostering better communication, leadership, and adaptability. The discussion highlights Laura's journey from a shy individual to a thriving entrepreneur who uses the principles of improv to empower others.
Laura’s Journey into Improv
Laura begins by sharing her personal story of discovering improv in her 30s. Despite being a "super shy and self-conscious person most of [her] life," she took an improv class on a friend's recommendation. Initially, it was challenging due to her perfectionist tendencies, but she persisted and found improv to be "super, super freeing," leading her to overcome her shyness and self-consciousness (00:00-07:59).
“I was honestly a super shy and self conscious person most of my life... it totally changed my life and I totally stopped being shy and self conscious. It was super, super freeing.” – Laura Wachtel (00:00-02:04)
The Fun and Teamwork of Improv
Laura explains what makes improv enjoyable and emphasizes its foundation in teamwork. Contrary to the common misconception that improv is about being the funniest or most outgoing person, she highlights that true improv focuses on collaboration, listening, and building stories collectively.
“Improv is about teamwork. It’s about listening and responding and allowing the funny to come naturally without forcing it.” – Laura Wachtel (02:07)
Demystifying the Improv Experience
Anne shares her first-time experience with improv, expressing initial nervousness that quickly transformed into fun and realization of its benefits. Laura responds by demystifying improv, reassuring newcomers that it’s about collective play and making mistakes together in a supportive environment.
“We're all playing together. So it's an experiential thing of being in the soup together.” – Laura Wachtel (04:26)
Laura further adds, “It's really about demonstrating that we can all just be silly together and laugh and above all, permission to make mistakes.” (05:45)
Personal Growth Through Improv
Laura discusses her evolution from a hesitant participant to a confident performer and teacher. She credits repeated exposure and trust-building with overcoming fear, ultimately leading Zipline Improv to become a successful venture through word-of-mouth and consistent class offerings.
“I just got more comfortable with being uncomfortable because nothing bad ever happened, right? And you just build this muscle of trust in yourself and your fellow.” – Laura Wachtel (06:05)
Who Can Benefit from Improv
Laura asserts that improv is inclusive and beneficial for everyone, regardless of their background or initial interest. Whether someone seeks to perform, build confidence, improve public speaking, or explore personal growth, improv offers valuable tools.
“Improv is honestly for everybody. ... Whether you're a beginner or a perfectionist, improv can push you to grow.” – Laura Wachtel (08:10)
Core Principles of Improv
A significant portion of the discussion focuses on the foundational principles of improv, particularly the concept of "Yes, and." Laura explains that agreeing and building upon others' ideas fosters collaboration and opens up new possibilities both in improv and in everyday life.
“The core principles of improv ... is the phrase yes. And so. Yes. ... it's about a culture of yes and hearing one another and responding back and giving something back.” – Laura Wachtel (12:52)
She further elaborates on how these principles translate to professional settings, such as corporate training, by fostering trust and encouraging risk-taking.
Applying Improv to the Workplace
Laura illustrates how improv techniques can be applied to enhance teamwork and problem-solving in the workplace. She emphasizes the importance of listening, being open to others' ideas, and building trust within teams.
“Improv is largely about trust, right? So the deeper we go into improv, the more vulnerable we want to get so that we can create together.” – Laura Wachtel (14:49)
She provides examples of how these skills can address common workplace challenges, such as reluctance to take risks and ineffective communication.
Running an Improv Business
Laura shares the practical aspects of running Zipline Improv, highlighting the challenges of scaling, scheduling classes, and managing administrative tasks as a solo entrepreneur. She discusses her strategies for maintaining high retention rates and balancing class offerings with personal time.
“My schedule is basically I mostly work at night, you know, teach my classes or evenings because, you know, adults work.” – Laura Wachtel (22:03)
Impact of Improv on Laura’s Life
Reflecting on her personal transformation, Laura describes how improv has reshaped her self-perception, enabling her to embrace her authentic self and reduce self-consciousness. This shift has empowered her to fully engage in life and her business without the fear of making mistakes.
“I feel more me. I don't feel like I'm hiding. ... it's a path for me at least, of finding my real comfortable nature and liking myself.” – Laura Wachtel (27:39)
Favorite Improv Exercises
When asked about her favorite improv exercises, Laura emphasizes the versatility and endless possibilities within improv. She mentions the "Yes, and" exercise and playful games like "Bunny Bunny," which foster creativity and spontaneity.
“I will just say you'd have to do a yes and exercise and learn how. Yes, and gets you so much further in life than yes.” – Laura Wachtel (28:58)
Advice for Entrepreneurs
Laura offers valuable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs, particularly those turning talents or skills into business offerings. She encourages overcoming imposter syndrome, leveraging free resources from the Small Business Administration (SBA), and seeking guidance from knowledgeable advisors.
“Let go of that imposter syndrome thing. ... I highly recommend them. ... find people who are smart in ways that you aren't to help.” – Laura Wachtel (30:57)
She underscores the importance of patience and gradual growth, sharing her experience of Zipline Improv's organic development.
Key Takeaways
- Improv is Worth Trying: Whether you're a beginner or a perfectionist, improv pushes you to grow by fostering teamwork, listening, and adaptability.
- Embrace Mistakes: Learning to laugh at your own mistakes builds resilience and confidence.
- Think on Your Feet: Improv enhances problem-solving skills by encouraging spontaneous and creative thinking.
- Play More: Reconnecting with a playful mindset can spark creativity and reduce stress.
- Maintain a Beginner's Mindset: Stay curious and open to learning new things, regardless of your expertise level.
- Let Go of Self-Doubt: Overcoming imposter syndrome and trusting in your abilities is crucial for personal and professional growth.
- Utilize Free Resources: The SBA offers free advisors to help entrepreneurs navigate the complexities of starting and running a business.
Conclusion
Anne McGinty wraps up the episode by reinforcing the transformative power of improv. She highlights how embracing improv can lead to improved communication, stronger relationships, and greater personal confidence. The episode serves as an inspiring testament to the impact of stepping out of comfort zones and engaging in creative, collaborative activities.
“Improv is a way to build self confidence. It's worth giving a try if you're even remotely curious.” – Anne McGinty (33:31)
Follow Laura Wachtel and Zipline Improv:
- Website: www.ziplineimprov.com
- Instagram: @ziplineimprov
- Facebook: Zipline Improv
Join Season 2:
Thank you for listening to this detailed summary of Anne McGinty's podcast episode featuring Laura Wachtel. For more inspiring stories and business insights, tune into How I Built My Small Business weekly.