Artists, Icons and Entrepreneurs
Artists, Icons, and Entrepreneurs is a space where creative professionals, such as elite hairstylists and visual artists, share how they built their careers through consistency, craft, and heart. We dive into their process, mindset, and journey so you can get inspired to grow your own creative career too.
Episodes
75 episodes
Why Houston's Frida Festival Started With One Woman's Dream
This episode features Lisbeth Ortiz, a Mexican-born visual artist whose work explores identity, resilience, and cultural heritage. She shares her journey from Mexico City to Houston and New York, her artistic inspirations, community initiatives...
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Season 3
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Episode 69
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45:22
I Wrote My Memoir and Found My Purpose
In this episode, we hear from an entrepreneur, author, and mentor who shares her journey of writing a memoir. She discusses how the process became one of healing and personal growth, offering her new mental clarity. Discover how she found her p...
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Season 3
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Episode 68
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50:57
From Swinging London to The Beatles: A Hair Icon’s Journey
Leslie Cavendish shares his extraordinary journey from East London to becoming a legendary hairdresser for The Beatles and other icons. Discover behind-the-scenes stories, lessons learned, and the culture of 60s London that shaped his career.
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Season 3
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Episode 67
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45:22
How America’s Beauty Show Is Shaping the Next Generation of Beauty Professionals
In this episode of Artists, Icons, and Entrepreneurs, we sit down with Don Wismer, Director of Education for America’s Beauty Show, to explore how beauty education is evolving and what this means for the industry's future.Don shares why...
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Season 3
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Episode 66
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46:34
From Struggling to Thriving | My Complete Transformation Journey
In this episode, Maria Arellano shares her transformative journey from struggling with weight and self-image to embracing a healthier lifestyle and body positivity. Through her experiences in photography and personal growth, she emphasizes the ...
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Season 3
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Episode 65
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46:42
What Fashion Shows Look Like Behind the Scenes | Sarai Martinez
In this episode of Artists, Icons, and Entrepreneurs, hosts Lulu Benavidez and Sue Krokonis Hanson welcome celebrity hairstylist Sarai Martinez. They explore Sarai's journey from studying fashion design in Canada to becoming a renowned hairstyl...
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Season 3
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Episode 64
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33:37
Behind the Chair: The Life of a Celebrity Stylist
In this engaging conversation, Lucia shares her journey in the hairdressing industry, starting from her early days at 15 to becoming a sought-after stylist for celebrities and major brands. She discusses the importance of passion, the differenc...
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Season 3
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Episode 63
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28:39
Behind the Curtain: Wig Building, Collaboration, and the Many Roads of the Beauty Industry
In this episode of Artists, Icons, and Entrepreneurs, we sit down with Richard Krammes—veteran hairstylist, wig designer, and educator with 35+ years in the professional beauty industry and theatre. Richard shares how he went from barber school...
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Season 3
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Episode 62
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45:14
You Can’t Train Gen Z Like You Were Trained
Artists, Icons, and Entrepreneurs, hosts LuLu Benavidez and Sue Krokonis Hanson, sit down with Coach Chris Baran, renowned salon educator and founder of Trainers Playbook, to explore what it takes to build high-performing teams and modern train...
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Season 3
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Episode 61
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1:00:02
From Bilingual Student to Educational Leader
Claudia Macias shares her inspiring journey in education, from her early experiences as a bilingual student to founding KIPP elementary schools. She discusses her collaborations with major educational institutions, the importance of story...
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Season 3
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Episode 60
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48:33
From salon owner to educator: David Velasco's unconventional path
David Velasco shares his remarkable journey from a young hairdresser in Tampa to becoming a prominent figure in the hairdressing industry. He discusses the impact of his early international experiences, the challenges of balancing a demanding c...
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Season 3
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Episode 59
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1:28:37
Embracing New Beginnings in 2026
In this engaging conversation, Lulu Benavidez and Sue Hanson reflect on the new year, discussing personal growth, the importance of human connection, and the value of reaching out to others. They share insights on navigating change, setting res...
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Season 2
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Episode 58
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25:18
Our Christmas Story | Faith, Family & Cherishing Memories
In this heartfelt episode, Lulu Benavidez and Sue Hanson reflect on the past year, sharing insights into the meaning of Christmas, the importance of family traditions, and the journey of grief through the holidays. They discuss the role of fait...
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Season 2
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Episode 57
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24:19
From Photographer to Storyteller: Renee Rodriguez's Journey
In this episode, photographer Renee Rodriguez shares her transformative journey in the world of photography, highlighting how personal experiences and societal tragedies have shaped her artistic vision. From her early inspirations to her impact...
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Season 2
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Episode 56
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56:47
The Stories Behind the Work - Paul Vega Interview
Paul Vega shares his experiences as a hairstylist, particularly focusing on a memorable encounter with former First Lady Barbara Bush. He discusses the importance of treating every client with respect and confidence, regardless of their status,...
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Season 2
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Episode 55
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1:01:39
The Secret Behind Transformative Public Art by Angel Quesada
In this episode of Artists, Icons, and Entrepreneurs, hosts Lulu Benavidez and Sue Krokonis Hanson engage with multidisciplinary artist Angel Quesada. They explore the transformative power of art, its role in enhancing community living conditio...
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Season 2
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Episode 54
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54:51
Why Thanksgiving Means More Than You Think
Thanksgiving montage of moments from past episodes. The Artists, Icons, and Entrepreneurs family extends a warm Thanksgiving message, reminding us to "give thanks" for the "family time" and cherished "connection" we share. This heartfe...
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Season 2
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Episode 53
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10:19
From Salon to Global Brand: Mireya Villarreal's Journey
In this episode of Artists, Icons, and Entrepreneurs, hosts Lulu Benavidez and Sue Krokonis Hanson interview Mireya Villarreal, a trailblazing entrepreneur and founder of Pink Pewter. Mireya shares her inspiring journey from a small salon to bu...
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Season 2
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Episode 52
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36:58
From the Barrio to The Cheech: The Journey of Jesse Rodriguez
In this episode, *Artists, Icons & Entrepreneurs* sits down with artist Jesse Rodriguez (Magnolia Grown) to explore the power of energy, gratitude, and growth. Jesse shares how the energy we carry shapes our experiences and how embrac...
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Season 2
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Episode 51
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1:03:56
Mindfulness and Self-Care in the Beauty Industry
In this conversation, Artists, Icons, and Entrepreneurs discuss the involuntary processes of our bodies that contribute to our success and happiness with Mya James. Mya emphasizes the importance of self-care and the need to embrace life's oppor...
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Season 2
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Episode 50
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57:02
From Tomboy to Music Executive: Gabrielle Peluso's Journey
In this episode of Artists, Icons, and Entrepreneurs, hosts Lulu Benavidez and Sue Krokonis Hanson interview Gabrielle Peluso, a prominent figure in the music industry. Gabrielle shares her journey from a tomboyish childhood to becoming a succe...
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Season 2
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Episode 49
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53:38
“The Power of Vision: How Vivienne Mackinder Shapes the Industry”
Welcome the legendary Vivienne MacKinder, a pioneer in the beauty industry with over 40 years of experience. Vivienne shares her journey from her early training to becoming a celebrated figure in hairdressing, discussing the balance between art...
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Season 2
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Episode 48
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38:53
The Surprising Truth About Elevating Hair Artistry to Fine Art
Omar Antonio is a renowned hair artist and educator. Omar shares his journey into the world of hair artistry, influenced by his artistic family and a desire to express himself creatively. He discusses the impact of travel on his work, the thril...
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Season 2
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Episode 47
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35:00
The REAL Difference Between Aesthetics and Authenticity in Beauty
Welcome, Marcus Geter, a renowned makeup artist with over 40 years of experience in the beauty industry. The conversation delves into Marcus's journey into makeup artistry, the significance of mentorship, and his philosophy that beauty encompas...
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Season 2
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Episode 46
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42:20
From Triathlete to Realtor: Sarah Piampiano's Journey
In this episode of Artists, Icons, and Entrepreneurs, hosts Lulu Benavidez and Sue Krokonis Hanson welcome Sarah Pianpiano, a former professional triathlete who has transitioned into a successful real estate agent. Sarah shares her journey from...
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Season 2
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Episode 45
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42:34