Guys, I love Amy Poehler. She is such a whip-smart lady and she makes AWESOME sh*t. Like, the wake of her creation is a just trail of fabulous unicorn dust that's already influenced me in more ways than I can count. From her uplifting Smart Girls At the Party to the improv school/theatre Upright Citizens Brigade, to her amazing book, not to mention the film and television she's produced, written or starred in, Amy Poehler just doesn't stop. She's unapologetically feminist, she's kind, and she's hilarious. I don't think I'm surprising anyone at this point when I say I just really want to BE her. Which is why I have this book.
Mmm, improv...
And yes, I AM taking improv classes at UCB, how could you tell? It's terrifying and wonderful and terrifying again (and I happen to have a show coming up this Sunday May 17th at noon at the Sunset location and you should probably come see it!).
BUT ANYWAY. My Amy Poehler love was only affirmed when I read her interview with Fast Company, which they did as part of their 'most creative people in business' feature. Yep, she definitely is that. The article is of course comedic gold (the woman spent seven years on SNL!) but it is also inspiring and encouraging for those of us in the trenches of the creative life. Whether you're a writer, actor, painter, or you make sculptures out of used plastic forks, Amy's advice on failing up and pursuing discomfort is for you. It will probably make you want to do a happy-dance. Amy Poehler has that effect on people.
So what are you waiting for? Go read the interview, makers!
Originally published May 12th, 2015