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

Hi Romeo, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
My thought process behind starting my business was very simple: You don’t get rich working for anybody else. I learned at a very young age that nothing in this life is free, and if you want something, you have to get up off your ass and make it happen. There is no such thing as handouts.

Growing up very poor with a single mother who did her best working multiple jobs to raise four children, I quickly realized that if I wanted anything, I had to work for it. At just eight years old, I took the initiative to go out in freezing cold weather to shovel people’s sidewalks and driveways for whatever money they were willing to offer. I started Kool-Aid stands, mowed lawns—anything I could do to make money. I loved making money, and I liked the finer things in life. The only way I was going to get what I wanted or needed was by working for it and earning that money.

As I got older, I had to grow up even faster. By the age of 14, I was taking care of myself, buying my own school supplies and clothes. That only motivated me more. Throughout all the jobs I’ve ever had, I’ve always worked my way up quickly due to my work ethic, even at a young age.

For someone who suffers from ADHD and other challenges, I’ve had people tell me that I would only ever amount to being a fast food worker or a drug addict. Those words lit a fire under my ass. They pushed me to work harder, grow, learn, and prove everyone who doubted me wrong. No matter how old I get, I will continue to work hard and achieve my goals—even if it takes most of my life. Anything less than success and running my own successful business is simply unacceptable to me.

If I’m going to run on a hamster wheel, it’s going to be a solid gold one that I built and paid for, rotating around my success. But I’ve also learned that success isn’t just about finances. Success is about becoming the person you are destined to be. It’s about growing out of old toxic patterns, becoming the best version of yourself, and being an inspiration to people whose hope has faded because of the hurdles they have to cross to get where they’re going.

I want to be blessed so that I can bless others with my success. I want to show my nieces, nephews, and future children that anything is possible if you keep pushing forward and believe in yourself. No matter how many people doubt you, it is you who has to believe in yourself in order to succeed.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My art is a reflection of my life, my experiences, and my drive to create something meaningful out of everything I’ve been through. Whether it’s writing, singing, songwriting, producing, or storytelling, I pour my heart into everything I do. What sets me apart from others is my versatility and my ability to find humor, beauty, and purpose in even the darkest moments. I thrive on turning my pain into passion, whether that’s through my comedic memoir Don’t Drop the Soap, my music, or my businesses. Let’s not forget that I am currently the host of an online comedy series called “The Petty Cam!”

What I’m most proud of is how I’ve stayed true to myself through it all. I didn’t come from wealth or privilege—I had to fight, work, and teach myself to get to where I am today. Professionally, it’s been far from easy. Growing up poor, having to take care of myself at a young age, and facing challenges like ADHD and the doubts of others taught me that success isn’t handed to you; you have to go after it relentlessly.

Overcoming challenges required me to develop a mindset of resilience and resourcefulness. I had to teach myself everything—how to write, how to start and maintain businesses, and how to turn ideas into reality. There were times I failed, and there were moments when I felt like giving up, but each failure taught me a valuable lesson. The most important lessons I’ve learned along the way are:
1. Believe in yourself, even when others don’t.
2. Work hard, even when it feels like no one is watching.
3. Success isn’t just about financial gain—it’s about growth, healing, and inspiring others.

What I want the world to know about me and my brand is that everything I create comes from a place of authenticity and purpose. I’m here to show people that no matter where you come from or what obstacles you face, you have the power to create a life you’re proud of. My story is one of resilience, humor, and never giving up.

Whether it’s through my book, my music, or my businesses, I want to inspire others to see that they can overcome their challenges, chase their dreams, and become the best version of themselves. My art and my story are a testament to the fact that growth is possible—even when the odds are stacked against you.

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?
If my best friend were visiting, I’d make sure they had an unforgettable trip. One place I’d absolutely take them is Tampa, Florida, which has been a huge part of my journey since I first came there at 18 for a door-to-door sales job. Tampa feels like a second home, filled with sunshine, water, and endless adventures for anyone who loves the outdoors.

We’d start by visiting my family in Tampa. While not blood-related, they’ve always treated me and everyone I bring as one of their own, with love, positivity, and unwavering support.

For drinks and fun, we’d stop at Duckies by Florida State University in Tampa. You can’t beat bottomless mimosas and nachos, and their miniature bowling would be an amazing time. Afterward, we’d hit the beach to relax or take a trip to Rainbow River for kayaking in its crystal-clear, ice-cold spring waters. Another stop would be Ybor City, exploring Tampa’s vibrant nightlife, rooftop bars, and lively streets. It’s a cultural hub that offers the perfect mix of history and excitement.

Another must-visit is Discovery Cove in Orlando, one of my favorite places in Florida. It’s an all-inclusive day resort that feels like a private island, where you can swim with dolphins, manta rays, and tropical fish. It’s a magical, one-of-a-kind experience.

For a change of scenery, I’d also take them to Chattanooga, Tennessee. I’ve traveled there a few times, and it’s such a beautiful spot. There’s a winery just outside the city, perched on a mountain with breathtaking views where you can see three states at once. They serve the best pizza and wine I’ve ever had. One of my best friends and I made a pact to always stop there whenever we’re passing through or have free time for a quick getaway.

This trip would be all about soaking in the beauty of these places and creating lasting memories together.

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?
This question is a tough one for me because, truthfully, everything I’ve accomplished in life has been through my own determination and effort. I taught myself how to write music, books, and stories. I taught myself how to build websites and how to create, build, and maintain businesses. So, if I were to give a recognition shoutout, I would absolutely give one to myself for my resilience and hard work.

That being said, I want to take a moment to recognize my mother, Cindy Woldstad, and her business, Helping the Homeless with Love LLC. About four years ago, I came to her with the idea of gathering donations to help homeless people in our city during an especially harsh winter. She instantly embraced the idea and turned it into her own business, which she has been running faithfully for the past 3 ½ years. What makes her story even more inspiring is that she overcame drug addiction and completely rebuilt her life. She has since dedicated herself to helping others, not only by providing basic essentials but also by offering a kind heart, a warm hug, and a genuine smile to those in need.

Her journey of transformation has been an inspiration not only to me but to so many people who have crossed her path. Watching her give so much of herself to others motivates me to work harder to build my businesses—not just for myself, but for my family. I want to help grow my mom’s vision for her business so she can continue making an even greater impact on the lives of those in need. Her story reminds me of the power of resilience, compassion, and the ripple effect of paying it forward.

As for a book, I’d like to shout out my own work, Don’t Drop the Soap, a comedic memoir about growth, learning, and navigating life’s challenges. It’s a reflection of my journey, full of lessons and laughter, and I hope it inspires others to see that growth is always possible, no matter where you start.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/romeovain/?igsh=N3UyaGFtbmR0M3Ji&utm_source=qr

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anthonyromeopayne?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app

Soundcloud: https://open.spotify.com/artist/6c2JNUKtUsW7ii3q5AiuSH?si=_dqQUiSLRq2CPob7MjSAFA

Facebook: https://facebook.com/RealromeoMn

Youtube: https://youtube.com/@romeovain?si=fOQdkj8EktyzPMhn

Other: https://www.iheart.com/artist/romeo-vain-45217455/

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutAtlanta 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.