We were lucky to catch up with Sophie Spiers recently and have shared our conversation below.
Alright, Sophie thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. What did your parents do right and how has that impacted you in your life and career?
My parents let me finger paint in the kitchen, sing Broadway songs in the living room, and run around the house in ballet shoes. They were super supportive of extra curricular activities, and believe me, I did them all. They also let me travel the world with school programs – I went to China when I was 12 and stayed with a host family; camped in Madagascar in high school; and welcomed several exchange students into our home. Nothing was off limits, which gave me the courage to try anything and everything.
Both of my parents are secretly obsessed with music and singing and acting and show business in general, so I think when I decided to become a comic/writer, they felt like I was doing something they’d always admired. They’ve always supported me, and I think that’s the best thing you can do as a. parent (especially as a parent to a precocious, active child with imaginary friends).
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
I’ve been a writer for my entire life. When I was in third grade, I wrote a “memoir” – I wrote one word on each page so I could impress everyone by how long it was… word economy is key. I always knew I wanted to write in some capacity, so when I entered Boston University’s M.S. in TV Writing & Producing program, it felt like a natural fit. I moved out to Los Angeles as an aspiring TV writer, only to realize I’d much prefer to be in front of the camera than behind it. I discovered standup comedy and immediately fell in love. I adored the energy of the audience, the fun of joke writing, and the community I found. As a writer who loves performing, it felt like I’d finally been able to blend the two worlds.
I’m also the Senior Copywriter for MeUndies, which keeps my brain busy. It’s a fun company to work for, with products I love and a mission I appreciate. I feel lucky I get to write by-day and perform by-night.
My goal right now is to stay creatively busy, no matter where I am or what I’m doing. If I’m not doing standup, I feel bored and restless. I’m eager to write new jokes and see what this year brings!
Can you tell us about a time you’ve had to pivot?
Covid, Covid, Covid. I was working as the Showrunner’s Assistant on Comedy Central’s Drunk History. I was supposed to act in a few episodes, and I couldn’t wait to start filming the new season. Covid hit and everything spiraled. When we learned the show was canceled, I was crushed – what about my SAG card! I knew I needed to pivot.
The great thing about being a writer first is that people always need writers (let’s hope Chat GBT doesn’t change that). I re-entered the world as a Marketing Manager, with a focus on content. Professionally, I was set. But what about creatively? Zoom shows weren’t the best (although I did a whole bunch). I started making short Instagram Reel videos (this was before I knew about Tiktok), practicing character voices and stories. It was a blast, and I think it helped my comedy, in the end. Don’t be afraid to pivot! All roads lead to Oz.
In your view, what can society to do to best support artists, creatives and a thriving creative ecosystem?
Pay us! Value us! If artists bring you joy, tell them! We love compliments. In all seriousness, I think society needs to value creativity – without it, we’d all be the same, and that’s no fun. Recognize who entertains you and pay it forward. It’s as simple as that.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://sophiespiers.com/
- Instagram: @sophiespierscomedy
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sophie-spiers/
- Twitter: @SophieSpiers
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmzJm4O5YqLbvM6Oj1Uarwg