From Beauty Queen to Comedy Queen—Taryn Delanie-Smith proves that reinvention isn’t just possible—it’s powerful. This week, Jeannette and Mona sit down with Taryn Delanie-Smith—comedian, content creator, and former Miss New York—who turned a viral TikTok into a thriving career.
Taryn shares how she went from pursuing diplomacy to building a comedy empire, including the hilarious (and sometimes chaotic) journey that led to a reel that brought her 21 million views and internet fame. Known for her quick wit, iconic characters like Denise the Heaven’s Receptionist, and her refreshing take on beauty and friendship, Taryn proves that switching lanes can be both messy and magical.
If you’ve ever wondered what happens when you mix pageant glam with laugh-out-loud comedy, this episode is for you.
Hit play and join the group chat—you won’t want to miss this one.
KEY POINTS
- Taryn’s beauty queen and career background
- Her journey to becoming a comedian
- Taryn’s first viral video and its impact
- Taryn’s early life years and career aspirations
- COVID-19, career struggles, and new opportunities
- Balancing personal life with the public persona
- The impact of social media and audience interaction
- Taryn’s experience in pageantry and being Miss New York
- Why you need a support system: The power of female friendships
QUOTES
“To live as an ideal is no life at all. You're not an ideal. You're a person.” – Taryn Delanie-Smith
“I had to start viewing my authenticity, in a way, as a responsibility that I had, not only to myself but to others, specifically, because I have a platform.” – Taryn Delanie-Smith
RESOURCES:
Taryn Delanie-Smith
IG | @taryndelaniesmith
Keep in touch with Awf The Record:
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Mona Kosar Abdi
IG | @monakabdi
Jeannette Reyes
IG | @msnewslady
Keep in touch with Awf The Record:
Watch on Youtube: @AwfTheRecord
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Visit our website: www.AwfTheRecord.com
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