We were lucky to catch up with Kyle Render recently and have shared our conversation below.

Kyle, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today What’s been the most meaningful project you’ve worked on?

The most meaningful project I’ve been involved with is the creation and growth of the Failed To Render Comedy Club, the world’s first professional stand-up comedy club located in Virtual Reality (VR). This venture was birthed out of necessity during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 when traditional entertainment venues, including comedy clubs, were forced to shut down.

Recognizing the need for laughter and connection in challenging times, I saw an opportunity to innovate within the comedy space by leveraging VR technology. This initiative allowed us to offer live shows throughout the week, replicating the experience of real brick & mortar comedy clubs with all the familiar trappings, including a bar, bouncers, VIP sections, and a green room, but in a virtual setting.

The project’s significance extends beyond its innovative approach to comedy; it is deeply meaningful due to its impact on the comedy community and its audience. By hosting over 800 shows in VR and welcoming over a million visitors, we provid a platform for comedians from around the world, including well-known names like Bret Ernst from Netflix’s Cobra Kai, Kabir Singh from AGT, Jon “Polar Bear” Gonzales from Tik Tok, Howie Mandel, and Joey Medina from the Latin Kings Of Comedy.

Our efforts have not only kept the spirit of stand-up comedy alive during the pandemic but also expanded the reach of comedians and the accessibility of comedy to audiences who might not have the means or ability to attend live shows in physical locations.One of the most groundbreaking aspects of our work has been the collaboration with significant figures in the comedy world, such as Kenan Thompson from SNL, to discover the next big names in comedy through VR. This partnership highlighted the club’s unique position at the intersection of Hollywood and Silicon Valley, underscoring our role in revolutionizing live immersive entertainment and offering a new stage for undiscovered talent who otherwise might not have had the opportunity to showcase their skills.

The Failed To Render Comedy Club is meaningful to me not just as a business venture, but as a community and a movement that democratizes stand-up comedy. It bridges the gap between traditional stand-up and the future of entertainment, making laughter accessible to all, regardless of their physical or financial limitations. Through this project, we’ve created a new proving ground for talent and a new way for people to come together, share experiences, and enjoy comedy in the comfort of their own homes, which has been especially crucial during times of isolation.In essence, the Failed To Render Comedy Club represents a blend of innovation, community, and resilience, making it not just a business, but a beacon of hope and laughter in challenging times.

Kyle, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

I’m Kyle Render, the creator of the Failed To Render Comedy Club, the first professional stand-up comedy club in the virtual reality (VR) realm. My venture began as a response to the 2020 pandemic, transforming the comedy scene by offering a space where comedians could connect with audiences globally, despite the closure of physical venues. Our platform has hosted over 800 shows, captivating more than a million guests with our unique blend of live comedy in a virtual setting.What sets me and Failed To Render apart is our innovative approach to comedy, making it accessible and inclusive. Our virtual venues mimic the classic comedy club atmosphere, ensuring an immersive experience that bridges the gap between traditional and digital entertainment spaces.I’m proud of how Failed To Render has revolutionized comedy, providing a platform for both renowned and emerging talents worldwide. My mission is to continue pushing the boundaries of entertainment, fostering a community where laughter and connection thrive, regardless of physical barriers.

Are there any books, videos, essays or other resources that have significantly impacted your management and entrepreneurial thinking and philosophy?

In my journey as an entrepreneur and manager in the virtual reality space, I’ve found that there hasn’t been a single book, video, essay, or other resource that has significantly shaped my management and entrepreneurial philosophy. This is primarily because the intersection of comedy, community building, and virtual reality presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities that traditional business literature doesn’t fully address.Recognizing this gap, I’m motivated to write a book detailing my experiences and the lessons learned while building a community in a virtual reality setting. My intention is to share the insights gained from pioneering in a space where traditional rules of engagement and community building do not always apply. This book would not only explore the technical and logistical aspects of creating and running a VR comedy club but also delve into the nuances of fostering a sense of belonging and connection among virtual attendees from diverse backgrounds.The focus would be on practical wisdom, including how to navigate the challenges of virtual space, the importance of inclusivity and accessibility, and strategies for engaging a global audience. Additionally, I aim to discuss the entrepreneurial mindset required to innovate in uncharted territories, emphasizing resilience, adaptability, and the vision to see beyond the limitations of the current reality.By sharing my story, I hope to inspire current and future entrepreneurs to explore the potential of virtual reality and other emerging technologies as platforms for community building and to provide a roadmap that others can adapt and build upon as they venture into new digital frontiers.

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

The driving mission behind my creative journey is to democratize comedy, making it accessible to a wider audience, especially those who, due to various reasons, are unable to leave their homes. This includes individuals facing health challenges, older adults, veterans, and people living in remote or underserved locations. My aim is to bring laughter and joy into their lives by leveraging the power of virtual reality to create a space where they can enjoy live comedy just like anyone at a physical venue.Moreover, this initiative is not only about the audience but also serves as a platform for comedians. It provides them with an opportunity to work on their craft, test out new jokes, and refine their performances before taking them to the physical stage. This dual mission of serving both the audience and the performers underpins the essence of my work in the VR comedy scene.By creating an inclusive and accessible virtual comedy club, I’m working towards a future where no one is deprived of the healing power of laughter, and where comedians, regardless of their geographical or physical constraints, have the chance to connect with audiences and grow their talents. This goal is about more than just entertainment; it’s about building a community that transcends traditional barriers, fostering a sense of belonging and shared joy through comedy.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.failedtorender.com
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/failedtorendercomedy/
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/failedtorendercomedy
• Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/kylerender
• Twitter: www.x.com/failedtorender