We recently connected with Jay Sukow and have shared our conversation below.

Jay, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Are you happier as a creative? Do you sometimes think about what it would be like to just have a regular job? Can you talk to us about how you think through these emotions?

I am very, very happy in what I do. Each day is very different and I love the challenges and rewards this kind of lifestyle brings. I do wonder what it would be like to have a “regular” job. Many people consider having a job in a creative field as not a legitimate career. That what creatives do are more like a “glorified hobby.” This couldn’t be further from the truth. We are our own PR people, marketers, admin assistants, bookers, producers, talent…we do it all. A one-stop shop. It’s tempting to think “What if…” because there is something attractive about a set schedule, about the certainty. But if that were to happen, I know I would miss the flexibility that comes with what I have. So I work on gratitude each day, which keeps the “What ifs” in check, replacing them with “How lucky am I?”

Many people trust that a company has your best interest in mind. That they know what’s best and that working for someone, someplace else, is the right bet.

Guess what? It’s time to bet on YOU.

I’m proud of what I do and the positive impact I have on people’s lives.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

My parents gave me a Christmas present of improv classes when I was in college. I went to my first class and I was hooked! I didn’t know it would turn out to be a career — it was just such an amazingly fun time.

A lifelong enthusiast for learning, I realized my passion was in the L&D space and have devoted my life to it. I help drive behavior change in people and businesses alike by helping people think and act differently, becoming more powerful and effective communicators.

I began my journey in Chicago and had an extended stop along the way in Copenhagen, Denmark, where I was head of training and artistic director for an improv theatre. I worked with folks from all across the globe helping them improve their communication skills and interpersonal dynamics.
I’ve worked as a creative consultant, program designer, and facilitator, delivering learning sessions and
experiential experiences to audiences around the world.

Some of my clients include PepsiCo, McDonald’s, Microsoft, AT&T, Kraft, Western Union, Tenneco, Boeing, Apple, Yahoo!, International Trucking, Baxter Pharmaceuticals, Kaiser Pharmaceuticals, Biogen, USACE, Takeda, PWC, Intel, Deloitte, Netflix, Kilroy, RSM, Abbvie, Merck and the Chicago Women’s Rugby Club.

In your view, what can society to do to best support artists, creatives and a thriving creative ecosystem?

I think any time you can support is amazing, whether it’s with your time, sharing something on social media, a short “hey, I love your work” message, financially, anything. In other countries, there are grants and funding that allow artists to make a full time living. In the US, it seems to be much more difficult. So if a friend asks you to come to their show, please do! If they write a book, paint something, create music, buy it. And ask what the best way to support them is–can you get that freom them directly or do you have to go through another avenue. Find out what the best way to support them is,

And saying, “Hey, I appreciate what you are doing” or “What you did made me smile/laugh/get angry/cry/” etc., will go a long way. It can feel very isolating so any words of encouragement are huge and might be just what someone needs to continue creating.

What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?

I have a goal that every person takes one improv class. A mentor, Martin DeMaat, said, “If everyone took one improv class the world will be a better place” and I truly believe that. It helps you in so many aspects of your personal life and isn’t just for people who want to be on stage. And there are some many classes throughout the world and online that it’s easier now more than ever. You used to have to go to a city with a theater to take an improv class. Many people considered Chicago the place to go to learn from a great teacher. Now, you can learn from some of those same teachers online. Also, we’ve leaned there are great teachers everywhere, around the world. Learn what works for you and apply it everyday–like a muscle. You won’t regret it. Improv changes lives for the better.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.jaysukow.com or www.todayimprov.com
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jaysukow
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/jaysukow
• Youtube: @TodayImprov
• Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/today-improv-with-jay-sukow-los-angeles