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
69 episodes
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
The Legacy of Joe Santy: A Hairdressing Icon
Lulu Benavidez and Sue Krokonis Hanson welcome Joe Santy, a renowned figure in the beauty industry known for his expertise in texture and color. Joe shares his journey from being dubbed 'Perm Boy' to revolutionizing the world of permanent wavin...
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Season 2
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Episode 44
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53:47
Exploring Neurodiversity in Creativity through Photography
Lulu Benavidez and Sue Krokonis Hanson welcome Jason Buff, an award-winning fine art portrait photographer. Jason shares his journey into photography, the impact of neurodiversity on creativity, and the importance of mentorship. He discusses hi...
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Season 2
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Episode 43
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1:12:13
Empowering Beauty Graduates: The Vision of Penny Burns
In this episode of Artists, Icons, and Entrepreneurs, hosts Lulu Benavidez and Sue Krokonis Hanson interview Penny Burns, founder of Beauty Cast Network. With over 39 years in the beauty industry, Penny discusses her journey from owning a beaut...
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Season 2
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Episode 42
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41:14
The Transformative Power of Endurance Sports
In this episode of Artists, Icons, and Entrepreneurs, co-hosts Lulu Benavidez interview Morgan Chaffin, an elite endurance coach and former pro triathlete. Morgan shares her transformative journey from being an overweight teenager to becoming a...
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Season 2
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Episode 41
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39:41
The KEY to Achieving Award Success in the Beauty Industry NOW
In this episode of Artists, Icons, and Entrepreneurs, hosts Lulu Benavidez and Sue Krokonis Hanson engage with Brianne Gershon, a celebrated makeup artist and hairstylist. They discuss Brianne's impressive achievements in the beauty industry, i...
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Season 2
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Episode 40
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30:54
Transforming the Beauty Industry: Michael Cole's Journey
In this episode of Artists, Icons, and Entrepreneurs, hosts Lulu Benavidez and Sue Krokonis Hanson engage with Michael Cole, a transformative figure in the beauty industry. Michael shares his incredible journey from a barber to a renowned educa...
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Season 2
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Episode 39
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33:52