Why It’s Never Too Late to Get Creative | Lainey Lore

In this episode of The Icon Presents Podcast, Antoine Haines sits down with Lainey Lore, a wig and makeup designer, cosplayer, gamer, and lifelong lover of storytelling and pop culture. Lainey takes us behind the scenes of her creative journey—from growing up around theater and costume design, to studying at the Webster University Conservatory of Theater Arts, earning her cosmetology license, working in salons, and eventually making her way to Los Angeles and Cirque du Soleil’s KÀ. The conversation goes far beyond wigs and makeup. Lainey opens up about discovering cosplay later in life, overcoming her fear of sewing, embracing creativity in her 40s, and why it's never too late to reinvent yourself. Antoine and Lainey also dive into cosplay, D&D, Star Wars, gaming, physical media, retro games, conventions, Critical Role, storytelling, and the importance of keeping creativity—and human connection—alive in an increasingly digital world. From her Lilith and Squirrel Girl cosplays to her plans for Darth Talon, Lainey shares the stories, inspirations, and experiences behind the characters she creates.

Topics include: 🎭 Theater & costume design 💄 Wigs & makeup artistry 🎨 Cosplay & creative expression 🎮 Retro & modern gaming 🐉 Dungeons & Dragons ⭐ Star Wars & fandom 🎲 Critical Role 👾 Conventions & cosplay culture ✨ Creativity at any age 🎬 Cirque du Soleil & live entertainment Guest: Lainey Lore Host: Antoine Haines The Icon Presents Podcast #LaineyLore #TheIconPresents #Cosplay #Cosplayer #WigDesign #MakeupArtist #DungeonsAndDragons #StarWars #Gaming #CriticalRole #Podcast #CosplayCommunity