We were lucky to catch up with Lauren Scham recently and have shared our conversation below.

Lauren, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today How did you come up with the idea for your business?

I got my start working fetish shows and I had a couple of assistants with me. I didn’t want them to be left out on billing or credit in flyers but I also needed a catchy name for them. I just so happened to have a Gotham City Sirens comic in front of me and the name Ybor City Sirens was born! Eventually a “wonderful” pandemic occurred and there were no more shows. I grew tired of the fetish community and wanted a way out so I decided to take a leap of faith and go back to my nerdy roots. I made friends with someone that owned a nerdy bar and they stated that they wanted to host a nerdy cabaret. I immediately perked up and offered my services. What started out as a prosperous relationship quickly turned toxic. This particular business owner only wanted “skinny white women” however I had what I referred as the “all you can eat buffet.” I decided to not rely on anyone else ever again and became my own boss lady.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

The Ybor City Sirens LLC offers a safe space for performers, regardless of size, shape, skin color or gender identity. Talent is talent! When others tell you no, we say yes.

Can you tell us about what’s worked well for you in terms of growing your clientele?

When in doubt go old school! People love flyers, stickers and most of all face to face encounters. We always try to engage our audience and make them entertained throughout the entirety of our shows. Unfortunately we live in the digital age, which does have its perks at times, leaves little time for personal engagement.

We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.

I’ve had several people tell me that I can’t do something to which I say “watch me.” I have had to cut deals with toxic business owners and partners for the safety of not only my performers but also my audience. When in doubt always listen to your “gut feeling” and if something doesn’t feel right there is probably a reason.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: Yborcitysirens
• Facebook: Yborcitysirens LLC
• Twitter: Yborcitysirens