Author: Roshini Sanakkayala, Graduate Assistant
When Bryan Li graduated from UNC Charlotte’s Belk College of Business in 2008, he didn’t follow the typical blueprint for success. Instead of climbing a corporate ladder, he took a series of unconventional steps—launching a restaurant, diving into Charlotte’s creative scene, starting ResidencyCLT, and eventually becoming a key figure in the local improv community.
An entrepreneur, performer, and educator, Bryan credits much of his growth to two things: embracing risk and staying connected to what brings him joy.
Where It All Started
Bryan’s college experience was anything but typical. While many students join clubs and campus organizations, Bryan spent his sophomore year and onward working full-time off campus, leaving little time for traditional involvement. But that didn’t stop him from making valuable connections.
“Business is all about people,” he said. “The relationships I built during my time at UNCC taught me a lot about navigating both life and business.”
Bryan met his business partner, Jason Cheung, in 2006 when they both attended UNC Charlotte and worked at the same restaurant. Their professional relationship continued to grow as they worked together, forming a strong foundation of trust and collaboration. Their first business venture was a natural extension of that partnership, driven by a shared desire to continue working together and build something of their own.
After graduation, Bryan and his business partner began planning their first restaurant, which they opened in 2010—a move that defined their early career.
The Step That Lead to Improv
While entrepreneurship was Bryan’s first big step, his next came with even more unexpected rewards. In his early 30s, Bryan signed up for an improv class to improve his storytelling. What he found was a life-changing experience.
“I was becoming a better listener, more confident, and surrounded by a fun and supportive community,” he said. “Taking that class was the most important decision I’ve made for myself.”
Since then, Bryan has been involved with a nonprofit called Charlotte Is Creative that supports creatives in Charlotte. He also co-founded a performance group 2 years ago called Shameless Improv. With this organization, he’s helped build a loyal following across the city, performing everywhere from breweries to museums.
“I love teaching non-performers in workshops. We use improv games to help people become better communicators,” he said. “It’s silly and fun, but it’s also real growth.”
Risk, Passion, and Taking the First Step
Professionals looking to start a business often fear failure and uncertainty about leaving a stable path. When asked if he was scared to take that leap into starting a business, Bryan reflected:
“I wouldn't say I was scared—I think it's because I was just too young to be scared? The service industry was all I’d known at that point, and I knew we were going to do everything we needed to in order to keep the business growing. We've always believed that if we treat people well and hustle, we have a very good chance of succeeding.”
At just 23 when their first restaurant opened, Bryan says the fear of failure didn’t hold him back. He knew that if they did fail, he had so much time in his career to bounce back and try again.
Bryan’s journey is a masterclass in embracing uncertainty. Whether it was launching a business or stepping on stage for the first time, risk was always part of the process. But for Bryan, not taking risks felt like the bigger gamble.
“Playing it safe can be even riskier, especially in your 20s,” he said. “This is the time to pursue your passions. You never know what you might discover unless you go for it.”
He urges students not to coast but instead to stay curious, reach out to people around them, and follow what excites them, even if it’s a little unconventional.
Advice for the Next Generation
Bryan’s message is clear: obsession, initiative, and human connection matter most.
“Your business moves when you move. No one will care more than you. So don’t wait—get to work.”
And if you’re curious about improv or want to build your confidence in an unexpected way? Bryan invites you to jump in. You can get in touch with him at BryanLiResidency@gmail.com or follow the organization @ShamelessImprov. He urges everyone to join, laugh, learn, and surprise themselves.