Inspiring Conversations with Lori Johnston of RoqnLife Talent

Today we’d like to introduce you to Lori Johnston.

Hi Lori, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
My amazing, strong mother, raised my brother & I with Native American values, our family roots are First Nations Mi’kmaq. I moved to Los Angeles from New Hampshire in 1985 to pursue the music industry. I attended Trebas Institute in Hollywood for sound engineering & production. I worked in that field for 6 years.

My son was a successful child actor for 17 years, I learned a lot about the entertainment industry. I launched a youth department at my friends talent management company, T.E.G., and ran that for about 12 years. We all went out with friends to a Sips & Giggles comedy show, where Drew Thomas was performing. He made me laugh non-stop. After the show, we talked to him about the industry. Drew and I became friends but he was insistent that I was the right person to represent him. I only worked with kids, but I eventually signed him.

Here I am 8 years later with my own Talent Management company. I represent seven amazingly talented Comedian/Actors and promote a few bands. I love what I do. I always felt trapped in the 9 to 5 world. I am so fortunate that my days are filled with laughter, and I have time to engage in my culture more and advocate for our Native American/Indigenous community and the issues we face.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
I don’t believe there’s such a thing as a smooth ride, I had many adversities that have given me the strength to handle anything & adapt quickly. When I first moved to Los Angeles, it was the height of the crack era and we unknowingly moved across the street from a prominent Crips gang in what was known as “Ghost Town”. That experience taught me how to persevere and hold my own even a dangerous situation. I’m grateful for that experience, it taught me a lot about life, and myself as well as ingrained a passion in me for OG Rap. What an experience to be around the beginning of such a musical revolution.

I am currently experiencing perhaps the most challenging adversity I’ve faced in my life so far. Covid‘s affect on the entertainment industry was brutal and I had a fall which left both of my hands in casts/splints for 18 months and permanently limited my hand’s functionality. I’ve had to re-learn how to do so many routine tasks and there’s still so many things I’m no longer able to do myself. I used to have a few side hustles that I’m no longer able to do, which is affected by financial security especially in today’s economy.

I empathize with the countless people in Los Angeles who have become housing insecure or homeless since the pandemic as I’ve experienced homelessness myself sleeping on the streets. I’ve recently become involved with Live 2 Give, a 501c3 nonprofit foundation that raises money for Tiny Homes community developments so those who are currently homeless can have some security and stability while they get back on their feet.

I always try to stay optimistic no matter what my circumstances are. My small, strong family is very supportive. Great things are on the horizon and that’s what I focus on.

As you know, we’re big fans of RoqnLife Talent. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
RoqnLife Talent is my boutique talent management company. I am currently focusing on adult comedians, actors and musicians. I have a very authentic approach to the business. I won’t represent someone unless I am as passionate about their work or possibilities as they are. I won’t sprinkle any stardust on you.

The comedians I represent are funny and witty no matter the audience whether it’s PG or R rated. They can keep the same humor and wit with a clean set. The musicians that I promote can cover a variety of music. My clients are available for both live public and private functions as well as virtual and filmed events.

All my clients are amazing, we have great relationships with each other. None of them have big egos, so they work well together and support each other. That’s common in the comedy scene but I think it’s important to have harmony within my business and between my clients. We’ll go out to comedy clubs and social events with each other often.

I am one to create opportunities if I don’t see one available and I’m currently putting on my first live comedy show in Hollywood May 27, 2022. I’d love to do it quarterly and eventually grow into a monthly show as well as in other cities and markets that will feature big names but also showcase talent that’s been overlooked for whatever reason. I want to give talent that’s paid their dues the opportunity to get up on stage more and get their name out there. I’d love to bring Native American/Indigenous comedians more opportunities

Feel free to follow me on social media; you can inquire about my clients and follow them as well. You’ll be supporting small businesses between myself, my clients, and the venues we work with. You can also inquire about Live 2 Give Tiny Homes.

What makes you happy?
I’m a simple person, I’m most happy when I’m out in nature, usually at the beach or in the mountains. That’s the MiKimaq blood in me. Nature is where I connect with my true self and nurture my happiness. I love helping others achieve their goals or dreams, whether it be in the showbiz world, coaching runners, or the Native American/Indigenous community.

It makes me happy to spread kindness as well as laughter and joy with my comedic and musical clients. Some of my happiest moments were during the many years I coached my son, who ran cross country and track, and helped him win two national championships.

I also love giving back to my culture and bringing awareness to issues like Murdered and Missing Indigenous Women/Persons (MMIW/P) as well as the residential school victims & survivors. Those are obviously issues that deal with tragedy, but it’s fulfilling to be closely involved in trying to make improvements for our future Native American generations and heal our relations within the community. My fellow Native sister Teyana Viscarra and her partner, Norm Sands founded a nonprofit group, Way of the Sacred Mountain, which has taught me a lot. To witness their journey in practicing old ways brings me joy. To help make the world a better place in whatever small amount I can is rewarding.

Pricing:

• $500 is the starting rate for private comedy shows.
• $1000 is the starting for bands, solo artist options are available.
• Live comedy prices depend on the market, venue size & dates as seasonal bookings are higher prices.

Contact Info:

• Email: [email protected]
• Instagram: https://instagram.com/roqnlifetalent?igshid=NjY2NjE5MzQ=

Image Credits
Drake Johnston, Norm Sands, Erik Smalls, and Greg Lewolt