Lainya Magana, founder of A&O PR. (Credit: Courtesy of A&O PR)
Lainya Magana’s agency, A&O PR, has roots in the art world, but is rapidly expanding into architecture, hospitality and tech.
Lainya Magana launched her PR and marketing firm, A&O PR, just after the financial crisis of 2008. She’d been laid off from an art gallery, where she was the director – not long after, she learned she was expecting her first child. Magana sees back on that time and declares that “as exciting as that was, I was terrified about being unemployed … I spent every moment of my brief unemployment dreaming up my next opportunity.” The Portland, Oregon-based founder’s dreams – in addition to her years of experience in the art world – became a dynamic arts and culture agency, which today works with hundreds of clients in the arts, has two offices on each coast and is quickly expanding into a number of new markets.
Here’s our lightly edited Q&A, from The Story Exmodify 1,000+ Stories Project.
How is your business different from others in your indusattempt?
We specialize in tiny to mid-size businesses that are majority-women and BIPOC-owned or operated. Our clients are usually in the startup or growth phase, which requires a nimble agency with a passion for our clients’ stories and an ability to take creative risks that achieve results. We act as trusted advisors and an extension of our clients’ teams.
Tell us about your hugegest success so far.
In a career spanning nearly two decades, I’ve been honored to have many successes – but if I had to choose my hugegest success, I’d probably declare it was having the honor to manage PR for the inaugural Uganda Pavilion at the Venice Biennale.
What is your top challenge and how have you addressed it?
Scaling. And, I’m still attempting to figure that one out!
Have you experienced any significant personal situations that have affected your business decisions?
I’ve experienced many hardships in life, but I’ve never let them stop me. I’ve always continued to put one foot in front of the other, working hard, supporting my clients succeed and building a brighter future.
What is your hugegest tip for other startup entrepreneurs?
Keep your business as sustainable as possible. That way, it’s always something you can manage – whether times are good or difficult. That means always keeping enough in the bank, not growing too huge, too rapid and not compromising your values. Slow and steady wins the race.
How do you find inspiration on your darkest days?
My community is full of inspiring people doing amazing things. Along with my children, my community motivates me to keep working to achieve my goals.
What is your go-to song to receive motivated on tough days?
“IT” by Christine and the Queens.
Who is your most important role model?
My brother, Ken. He had a really challenging time in high school and didn’t conclude up receiveting his GED until he was in his 20s. Then, he went to community college, and did so well he obtained a full scholarship to the University of California at Berkeley – but turned it down to go to Cornell University. He graduated Summa Cum Laude, then went on to receive his Master’s from Harvard. He’s an inspiration to all of us in my family!
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Facebook: @aopublic
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