We had the good fortune of connecting with Erline Maingot and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Erline, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
I have always been one to be of service to others in my own way. I am drawn, and others are drawn to me, to those that seek help or guidance. When I created Shall We Proceed? Podcast w/E.Leese Main, and being co-hosting other podcasts, my soul purpose was to bring back to the world, and my community, the safety of conversations and to bring people what they really wanted to talk about. As I started my podcast life I had to get out of my own shell and truly connect and get back in student mode. I started and was at the will of others and their skills and talents. I remained a student and soaked up as much as I could and realized that so much I am paying for I should, and could, do myself, and why not get in the business of empowering others to take that creative control back. With that I also wanted to share with others who wanted to build a brand, a show, or anything, that I wanted to offer up as much help as I could so they did not have the same bumps and bruises I collected. I have always wanted to keep podcasting and I also want to help others develop and be a true creative. I do not want anyone tied to me forever, I truly love the independence we have been allowed now in the media. I created E. Maingot Inclusive Media for the sole purpose to host bigger informative events for myself and others, to give others the tools they need to start and do it all on their own without bleeding them along the way. I wanted to have a platform where podcasts, and  hosts are found, can have  a true safe space to come get simple consultation. To help mold and nourish those who feel lost and unsure where to start. To be their bridge into being an independent creative. With the tools I want to give others will birth independance. So when they do have a team surrounding them they understand each job at the table, and how it is done. That way you can ensure brand protection. So YES! E. Maingot Inclusive Media is launching and here to serve the creatives. Think of it as your event/podcast concierge. 

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Listen! I am still on the success journey! I still have my loving day job as a Public Services Librarian (that I do not plan on leaving!). I am so proud that I love what I do 9-5 and after. I love living my purpose to serve and I love that I have learned how to serve me as well. I am most proud of finding my voice and creating something that has allowed others to be heard as well. The biggest challenge for me is knowing that I cannot give too much of myself to too many. I must manage the time and find true balance to keep the happiness going. What everyone should know about me, and my brand, is that when I say safe space that is what it is. When I say judgement free zone that is exactly what I mean. I created all of this to bring back real conversations with real people about real stories. We all deserve to be heard and to show the world that we are so much more than reality shows and stereotypes. We also have to remember to pull others up with you. Knowledge is not to be kept to oneself. As I grow and evolve I must share my understanding with someone else. Build and build.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Ha! My best friend would want to just sit at home eating great Mexican food while we watch reruns of Cosby Show, Martin, and Different World! But to answer your question a great time for me would be to start the day at the spa getting pampered. Take in a great lunch somewhere with amazing seafood, take in the museum district and see the culture, and finally end up home and binge watch something amazing! The Houston area is one amazing place! I truly cannot just name one thing. There is so mcu to do here, something for everyone.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I dedicate this, and my entire life, to my family and friends. Most importantly my mother in heaven. Without all of them I would not be where I am.

Website: www.shallweproceedpod.com

Instagram: @shall_we_proceed_podcast

Twitter: @ShallLeese

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ShallWeProceedUncomfortableTruths

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9to4vU9ppCIsaGe_BOy70A

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutHTX is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.