In this episode of the Business Growth Spotlight, host Heidi Schalk sits down with Kelly Leonard, Vice President of Creative Strategy at the legendary comedy institution, The Second City.

Together, they dive into the surprising but powerful connection between improv and business—revealing how improvisational techniques can unlock creativity, build trust, and elevate team communication.

Kelly shares behind-the-scenes insights into The Second City's rich legacy, how embracing discomfort fuels growth, and why listening is a leadership superpower.

They also explore cutting-edge projects, the ongoing challenge of staying relevant in a changing world, and what’s on the horizon for this iconic organization.

Bio*

Kelly Leonard is the Vice President of Creative Strategy, Innovation and Business Development and the author of the best-selling book, “Yes, And: Lessons from The Second City,” which reveals how improvisation can foster creativity, collaboration, and transformation in any context.

Kelly began his career as a dishwasher at The Second City in 1988 and became producer of The Second City in 1992, hiring and overseeing the production of original shows such talent as Tina Fey, Stephen Colbert, Steve Carell, Amy Poehler, Jason Sudeikis and Keegan Michael Key. He co-created and co-directed a groundbreaking initiative with the University of Chicago that explores the intersection of behavioral science and improvisation and he hosts the popular podcast, “Getting to Yes, And,” interviewing such thought leaders as Brene Brown, Adam Grant, Seth Godin and more. As a speaker and facilitator, he has shared his insights and expertise with diverse audiences and clients, including The Aspen Ideas Festival, TEDx Broadway, The Stanford Graduate School of Business, Coca Cola, Microsoft, and DDB Worldwide. His mission is to inspire and empower people to use improvisation as a tool for positive change and growth.

To connect with our guest, click on the links below:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelly-leonard-b8495047/

Website: www.secondcity.com

Connect with me:

Spotlight to Scale: Spotlight to Scale Blueprint

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heidischalkcoaching/