We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Shaine Laine. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Shaine below.
Shaine, thanks so much for taking the time to share your insights and lessons with us today. We’re particularly interested in hearing about how you became such a resilient person. Where do you get your resilience from?
No doubt – I get my resiliency from the remarkable woman who raised me. Coming from a single-parent household, my mom faced numerous challenges, yet she never gave up determination to give me and my sister a life of fun and laughter. Seeing her navigate life’s hardships instilled in me a profound sense of perseverance. My mother taught me the value of hard work, courage, and humility. She became my role model and taught me that setbacks are not roadblocks but rather opportunities for growth. We quoted Mary Poppins often- “With everything that must be done there is an element of fun!” That line motivates me whenever I feel overwhelmed because then tasks become a game that I have to win!
Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
Embarking on this journey through the world of comedy and entertainment has been a truly transformative experience for me. My passion for making people laugh and keeping the good times rolling has fueled both my personal and professional life. The first time I ever came out as a transgender man was on stage at a comedy open mic. I heard one gasp from an audience member, and I had to reassure her that I said I’m only trans and not a ghost; even though my face was crisp white after that announcement. Having navigated the nuances of self-discovery, I embraced my authentic self and emerged as a proud advocate for the LGBTQ+ community. Beyond my own artistic pursuits, I established a talent agency business, Aqronym Entertainment, that stands as a beacon of inclusivity, focusing on representing the voices of queer, female-identifying, and BIPOC comedians. It’s not just a business for me; it’s a commitment to fostering diversity and providing a platform for underrepresented talents in the comedic landscape.
In addition to running the talent agency, I actively engage with my audience through online videos, leveraging humor as a tool for connection and understanding. I talk about my transition, post stand-up videos, and rant about sports in a video series called ‘QueerSPN.’ Looking ahead, I am thrilled to pursue my QueerSPN podcast in 2024, where I will delve into the intricacies of the queer side of sports. I’ll share personal insights and feature interviews with some of the most brilliant voices in the industry. That’s my personal checklist. As a pivotal moment for my talent agency, the new year will witness the filming of a stand-up comedy special by the first comedian I’ve had the honor to represent. This journey is not just about laughs; it’s about breaking barriers, amplifying diverse voices, and building a more inclusive and joyous world through the power of comedy and connection.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
The most impactful skills that I have picked up on throughout this journey are adaptability, creativity, and personability. The business landscape is dynamic, and the ability to pivot when necessary is crucial. Be creative in how you adapt as well. Innovation is the driving force to stand out in a crowded business world. I prioritize communication and transparency to build trust and loyalty with those that I wish to bring along on this crazy journey.
How can folks who want to work with you connect?
I’m looking to collaborate with people who want to laugh – which should be everyone! This world can get crazy and can bog us down, but a simple joke or a cracked smile can change things around. Over the years, I’ve had the pleasure of hosting a variety of events, from corporate functions to fundraisers, and my comedic style is known for its inclusivity and ability to resonate with diverse audiences. I strive to represent other comedians who can bring an untold story and connect with an audience of all backgrounds.
If you’re hosting an event but don’t want to actually be ‘the host,’ then a comedic emcee is the way to go! A comedic emcee adds an extra layer of engagement and enjoyment to any event. Laughter is the universal language that brings people together, creating a positive and memorable experience. Whether it’s a corporate gathering, product launch, or community event, one of my comedic emcees will sets the tone for a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere, ensuring your audience is not only entertained but also fully engaged.
I would love the opportunity to discuss collaborations and further explore how we can tailor my services to align seamlessly with the goals and theme of your event. Please feel free to reach out to me at [email protected] to schedule a meeting or discuss any specific details.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.aqrotainment.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aqrotainment/
- Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/shaine-laine
- Other: https://www.instagram.com/shaineolaine/
Image Credits
Call or reach out for names of comedians in photos.
