Due to a bit of unexpected luck, I had the pleasure of being able to see a taping of the Late Show with Stephen Colbert on Wednesday afternoon, and although it was an experience that didn’t quite relate to the advertising industry, I still found it to be an incredible learning opportunity in the world of production and storytelling. 

Before the recording began, Stephen entered the studio and briefed the audience on what was to follow. Generously, he allowed a few moments for a brief Q&A. One audience member, who introduced herself as a student studying TV Production, asked him how to improve her production skills while still in college. Colbert responded with a question, “how many shows are you making now?” After she responded with “one a week,” he answered her original question with a simple statement: “do more.” 

He explained after this the importance of routine practice, especially in an industry that requires a fast turnaround and limited time for reflection and revision. I found myself comparing this to any of my creative pursuits, where I often tell myself to “do more,” knowing it will only allow me to improve. Although giving this advice to myself is often followed by excuses and procrastination, maybe having heard it from Stephen Colbert himself will finally get it to stick. 

Haley Koch // From 05/10/2018