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
86 episodes
Beauty School Graduate? Here's What Comes Next
Artists, Icons, and Entrepreneurs, LuLu Benavidez and Sue Hanson, sit down with Penny Burns, founder of Beauty Cast Network, to talk about empowering the next generation of beauty professionals.Penny shares her passion for helping beaut...
The Hair Colorist Secret Every Stylist Needs to Know
This conversation focuses on the technical and interpersonal aspects of being a successful colorist. We cover how Beth Minardi approaches complex hair color techniques while maintaining high standards for client satisfaction. Whether you are a ...
This Chicano Artist's Collection Left Cheech Marin Speechless
Discover the artistic philosophy of Jesse Rodriguez, a Houston artist rooted in Magnolia Park. Learn how he translates history into art. This conversation explores the connection between ancient Aztec art and modern creative expression. We disc...
Your Dreams Don't Have an Expiration Date
In this episode, we sit down with Mya James for a thoughtful and inspiring conversation about beauty, aging, self-care, and the importance of staying consistent in the way we care for ourselves.This conversation offers a candid look at ...
This One Formula Will Change How You Cut Hair Forever!
Kim Weaver Moore, a renowned haircutting educator, shares her journey from a passionate hairstylist to an innovator with her Head Shape Matters system. Discover how her blend of science, geometry, and artistry is transforming haircutting educat...
Bridging Theory and Reality: The Color Artist's Challenge
Join us as we explore Brooke LeMasters' journey in the beauty industry, her innovative approach to color, and insights on building a creative salon culture. Perfect for stylists looking to elevate their craft and confidence. Chapte...
Why Geometric Cuts Became the Gold Standard for Hair
This episode features a deep dive into the history and innovation of hairdressing, highlighting legendary stylist Christopher Brooker's insights on the craft, culture, and evolution of hair design. He shares the importance of "personal growth" ...
Convenience vs Connection: Which One Matters More?
This episode features Marcy Cona, a renowned global creative director in the beauty industry, sharing insights on artistry, innovation, human connection, and the future of beauty. Discover her journey, leadership philosophy, and vision for elev...
The Offer His Brothers Made That Changed Everything
Welcome to Artists, Icons, and Entrepreneurs! In this episode, we hear from someone whose family history in the "barber shop" deeply influenced his career path. He shares the importance of "personal growth" and how embracing "creativity" allowe...
Collections That Challenge What's Expected
Welcome to Artists, Icons, and Entrepreneurs! In this episode, we explore the origins of a career, emphasizing the importance of creativity and teamwork. The discussion highlights a significant past collaboration from 1988, underscoring how per...
The Artistic Evolution: From Street Inspiration to High Fashion
Welcome to Artists, Icons, and Entrepreneurs!In this inspiring interview, Omar Antonio shares his journey from a punk rock kid to a globally recognized hair artist and educator. Discover his creative process, the influence of international ...
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...
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...
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.
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...
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 ...
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...
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...
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...
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...
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...
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...
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...
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...
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...