I just finished 8 weeks of Improv 1 at The Second City in Chicago, and this episode of Actor’s Notes is a full reflection on the experience and what we learned on how to improvise. In this video, my friend Christina and I share our honest thoughts on what we learned, how improv changed the way we approach acting, and why this training is so valuable for any actor. It's more than just improv comedy, it's learning how to truly listen, stay open-minded, and how to PLAY AGAIN!!From learning how to truly listen, to getting out of your head and staying present in a scene, this journey has completely shifted how I think about performance.If you’re interested in acting, improv, or the process of becoming a better performer, I hope this gives you a real look into what it’s like.FOLLOW THE JOURNEY HERE:https://stan.store/gioaxibal

Just wrapped up improv for actors number one at The Second City here in chicago illinois! 🎭 It's rare I get to film inside, but I found a quiet spot to share my experience with improvisation. The Second City offers a fantastic range of classes, from sketch to writing, all aimed at honing your acting skills. If you're into improv comedy or looking for an acting class to boost your stage presence, this theater is the place to be.✨FOLLOW ME HERE:https://stan.store/gioaxibal

After improv class at The Second City, something small but important clicked for me.I went into class over-prepared.I had relationships planned.Environments mapped out.Scenes already living in my head.And when it was my turn… I froze.This video is part of my Actor’s Notes series, reflections from my acting and improv journey that translate directly into life.In this episode, I talk about:• Why overthinking kills scenes• How getting out of your head changes everything• Why mistakes aren’t failures, they’re information• And how presence beats preparation in acting and in lifeIf you’re an actor, creative, or just someone trying to get out of your own way, this one’s for you.

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What if the way you communicate is holding you back… and you don’t even realize it?

Taking improv classes at Second City Chicago has completely changed how I think, speak, and connect with people. In this episode, I break down the 3 most powerful improv rules that can transform not just your acting—but your confidence, conversations, and everyday life.

From driving 5 hours from Kentucky for Improv 1B to applying these lessons in real life, this is everything I’ve learned so far:

• Why asking questions can actually kill conversations
• How being open creates better outcomes (on stage and in life)
• The mindset shift that stops overthinking and builds confidence
• The “Yes, And” principle and why it changes everything

Whether you're an actor, creator, or just someone who wants to communicate better, these principles are game-changing.

CHAPTERS:
0:00 - Welcome from Second City Chicago
0:47 - Why I Drive 5 Hours for Improv Class
2:12 - How Second City Classes Are Structured
5:13 - Rule #1: Why We Don't Ask Questions
7:28 - Rule #2: Be Open to New Outcomes
9:30 - The Power of Not Overthinking
11:52 - Rule #3: "If This Is True, Then What Else?"
13:40 - Why YOU Should Take an Improv Class

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Watch all the BTS of my trips to Chicago and The Second City HERE: https://stan.store/gioaxibalAfter four weeks of showing up, making mistakes, and learning the foundations of improv, I wanted to document what this experience actually felt like, especially as an actor.If you’re thinking about taking an improv class or putting yourself out there creatively, this video is for you.Thanks for being here.Improv 1B is next.

I booked my first feature film! This isn’t a highlight reel or audition tips, it’s just me talking honestly about how Matthew McConaughey influenced my process and the acting lessons that resonated with me over the years. If you’re an actor or creative navigating this industry, I hope my thoughts on how to act and a few notes for acting for beginners give other actors something real to hold onto.McConaughey talked about rehearsing his scripts in completely different mental and physical states, after a workout, after church, after a few drinks, so he never gets too locked into one way of delivering a line. I've been doing something similar, and this walk is one of those moments.This is the start of documenting my feature film journey. if you're an actor still figuring this industry out, I hope watching my process helps in some way.LET'S CONNECT: https://stan.store/gioaxibal

I booked my first feature film!

This isn’t supposed to be highlight reel or the best acting tips or audition advice, It’s just me talking honestly about how it feels, what’s going through my head, and how I’m preparing for it. These are honestly the Acting lessons that I've learned that resonated most with me over the years.

If you’re an actor or creative navigating this industry, I hope this gives you something real to hold onto.

#acting #featurefilm #documenting #journey #learning

https://stan.store/gioaxibal

Just wrapped up week three of improv classes at Second City Chicago! 🎭 It's a long haul from Kentucky, but the improv comedy and improv exercises are always worth it. I'm really seeing some personal growth and improved communication skills through these sessions. Definitely picking up some great improv tips along the way!