How Second City Created Comedy Legends (Tina Fey, Steve Carell & More)

Second City has launched some of the biggest names in comedy, but what does it mean to lead creative people? In this episode of Notes from Chicago, Jen Ellison (VP of Creative at The Second City) breaks down: How improv turns into fully produced shows Why ensemble collaboration beats individual talent The real reason some jokes land—and others don’t What makes comedy timeless across generations Why laughter is a “foundational human need” This is a rare behind-the-scenes look at one of the most influential comedy institutions in the world and a deeper conversation about creativity, risk, and connection. Follow Jen Ellison, The Second City: Website: https://www.secondcity.com Instagram:   / jenjen1138   Follow Notes from Chicago: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0qkYwUr... Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast... YouTube:    / @notesfromchicago   TikTok:   / notesfromchi   Instagram:   / notesfromchicago