We recently had the chance to connect with Shannon Laine and have shared our conversation below.
Shannon, we’re thrilled to have you with us today. Before we jump into your intro and the heart of the interview, let’s start with a bit of an ice breaker: What do the first 90 minutes of your day look like?
Since I don’t work a traditional 9–5, I’ve learned that setting the right tone for the day is everything. The first 90 minutes of my day are about clearing distractions and creating focus. I start each morning with daily chores like watering the herb garden, cleaning out the pool, laundry, dishes, etc. Then I focus on exercise, so that when I sit down to work, my mind is clear, my body is energized, and all the little tasks that could pull my attention away have already been taken care of.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m Shannon Laine, President of the SAG-AFTRA Missouri Valley Local, which represents professional performers and broadcasters across Missouri, Kansas, Nebraska, and Western Iowa. I’m also an actor, advocate, and nonprofit executive who’s deeply passionate about building creative communities that thrive.
What makes our local special is the spirit of collaboration that defines this region. We have an incredible mix of talent, actors, voiceover artists, broadcasters, and content creators, paired with growing production opportunities thanks to the return of film tax incentives and renewed energy in our local industry. My focus as President is to strengthen those connections: empowering members, protecting fair wages and safe sets, and ensuring our communities understand the value of professional performers.
Beyond union leadership, I’m dedicated to helping this industry flourish through education, mentorship, and advocacy. I am also the Vice Chair for Cinema St. Louis, home of the St. Louis International Film Festival. I believe the Midwest has the potential to be a hub for production. My work centers on building those bridges so the next generation of talent doesn’t have to leave the region to succeed.
Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. What did you believe about yourself as a child that you no longer believe?
As a child, I believed success meant leaving my hometown of Belleville, part of the St. Louis metropolitan area, and the farther away, the better. I fell into acting while finishing college in Dallas, Texas, and soon packed up everything that would fit in my car and drove to Los Angeles, chasing the idea that success lived somewhere else, somewhere bigger and better.
What I’ve learned since is that “bigger” isn’t about geography, it’s about impact. The Midwest has shaped me in every way. It’s where I learned resilience, humility, and the true meaning of community. There’s a quiet strength here that fuels creativity in ways that often go unseen, and I no longer believe success has to mean leaving home. My mission now is to help build an industry where the next generation of storytellers can thrive right here at home.
Coming back from L.A. to act in St. Louis made me realize just how many gaps exist in our industry. There aren’t enough roles, resources, or mentors to help talent grow. My nonprofit leadership experience gave me the tools to address those challenges differently. It taught me how to build partnerships, advocate for resources, and create real opportunities. As SAG-AFTRA Missouri Valley President, I strive to lead with both heart and structure, while building systems that help artists succeed.
I used to think success meant being on a billboard or magazine cover. I’ve done those things, but now I see that real success is in the impact you make. For me, that means helping others find their voice, follow their passion, and know they can build a meaningful and creative life right where they are. That’s what I want to be known for.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
There were definitely times I almost gave up. Acting comes with a lot of rejection, and that can take a real toll on a person. When I moved back from L.A. to St. Louis, it was so hard. There weren’t many roles here, don’t even get me started on the culture shock, and I needed health insurance, so I had to find a full-time job just to make ends meet. It felt like I was stepping away from the dream I was working so hard for.
What I came to realize, though, is that storytelling isn’t limited to being in front of a camera. When I helped build a children’s health museum, I was still creating experiences that connected with people. I was using imagination and empathy to inspire change. It reminded me that creativity doesn’t disappear just because your path looks different than what you expected.
Those unexpected paths gave me valuable skills that I now use to help others in this industry. I can help the next generation understand how to navigate their careers here in the Midwest, connect them with mentors, and advocate for more opportunities. Every chapter, no matter how different it looked at the time, was preparing me to do exactly what I’m doing now.
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? What’s a belief or project you’re committed to, no matter how long it takes?
I’m deeply committed to building a stronger, more sustainable entertainment industry here in the Midwest. One where professional performers, filmmakers, and storytellers don’t have to leave home to find opportunity. That’s a long-term effort that takes persistence, policy change, partnerships, and community investment, but I believe it’s worth every step.
For too long, talent in this region has felt like they had to go elsewhere to “make it.” My goal is to change that narrative by expanding education, mentorship, and production opportunities throughout the Missouri Valley. Whether it’s through advocating for film incentives, hosting conservatory classes, or connecting members with local projects, I want to help create a pipeline that keeps creativity thriving right here.
This isn’t something that happens overnight. It’s a marathon, not a sprint. But I’m in it for the long game because I believe the next generation deserves to see that you can have a meaningful, successful career in this industry without having to leave your community behind.
Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
I hope people say that I made things better. That I left spaces, communities, and people stronger than I found them. That I used my voice to help others find theirs.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://linktr.ee/shannonlaine
- Instagram: @TheShannonLaine
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shannonsmock/
