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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.
73 Episodes
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Send a text 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. Chapters 00:00 A Surreal Encounter with Paul McCartney 01:40 The Journey to Becoming a Hairstylist 06:45 Lessons from Vidal Sassoon 12:58 The Start of Celebrity Hairdressing 19:12 The Beatles and the Hairdressing Connection 22:34 Behind the S...
Send a text This episode features Don Wismer, a visionary education leader in the beauty industry, discussing the future of beauty education, industry trends, and inclusive leadership. Discover insights on innovative training, diversity initiatives, and how to thrive in a rapidly evolving market. www.lulubenavidez.com @lulubenavidez www.evolvehairsolutions.com
Send a text 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 importance of mindset, identity, and the tools that helped her achieve her goals. Maria's story is one of resilience, empowerment, and the realization that true beauty comes from within. www.lulubenavidez.com @lulubenavidez www.evolvehairs...
Send a text 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 hairstylist in the beauty industry. The conversation delves into the intricacies of working with clients, the chaos behind the scenes at fashion shows, and the difference between being camera-ready and being real in real life. Sarai shares insights ...
Send a text 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 differences between fashion and real-world glamour, and her experiences working with renowned professionals. Lucia also highlights her role as a lead stylist for the texture team and her personal connection to cancer care, stemming from her mother's ...
Send a text 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 and salon life to discovering the “hidden world” of wigs, learning under masters at places like the Banff Centre, and stepping into high-level productions at the Denver Center for the Performing Arts (DCPA). You’ll hear what it really take...
Send a text 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 training systems in today’s beauty industry. Chris shares how he went from unexpectedly entering the hairdressing world to becoming a respected leader in professional education. Drawing on decades of experience, he explains why systematized trai...
Send a text 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 storytelling in education, and her initiatives promoting healthy habits through Veggie Pals. Claudia also highlights the significance of early childhood development and the need for self-care among educators and parents. Her insights and experien...
Send a text 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 career with personal life, and the valuable lessons learned from leadership roles at major companies like Wella and Bumble and Bumble. David also reflects on his entrepreneurial spirit, which led him to open a salon in Pennsylvania, and how f...
Send a text 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 resolutions, and the power of storytelling. The hosts emphasize the significance of building relationships and maintaining balance in life, while also looking forward to the future of their podcast and engaging with their audience. www.lulub...
Send a text 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 faith in their lives and the lessons learned from their podcast guests, emphasizing the value of passion, discipline, and gratitude. The conversation highlights the diversity within the beauty industry and the connections made through their inte...
Send a text 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 impactful projects like Redemption Love, Renee emphasizes the importance of storytelling through visual arts. She discusses her involvement with PhotoFest, her dedication to honoring veterans, and her belief in the healing power of art. As she loo...
Send a text 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, and reflects on the pressures that come with high-profile hairstyling. Also, styling hair for the Rams Cheerleaders! www.lulubenavidez.com @lulubenavidez www.evolvehairsolutions.com
Send a text 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 conditions, and the freedom found in clandestine murals. Angel shares his experiences from different cities, the artistic process, and how art serves as a healing tool. The conversation also touches on the evolution of public art and the importance ...
Send a text 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 heartfelt reflection encourages everyone to be "grateful" for the people and stories that shape our lives, fostering a sense of "happiness" through meaningful relationships. We hope you enjoy this special message. www.lulubenavidez.com @lulubenavidez...
Send a text 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 building a globally recognized beauty brand. The conversation delves into the realities of entrepreneurship, including the sacrifices made along the way, the importance of community support, and the values that keep her grounded. Mireya also d...
Send a text 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 embracing gratitude—for family, friends, and community—fuels creativity and a sense of purpose. The conversation highlights life as a continual journey of evolution, learning, and new opportunities. www.lulubenavidez.com @lulubenavidez www.evolv...
Send a text 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 opportunities, challenging the notion that one doesn't have time for themselves. She encourages listeners to recognize that everything in their bodies is working towards their well-being and to take action towards personal growth. www.lulubenavid...
Send a text 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 successful executive at major labels like Def Jam and Hitmaker Music Group. She discusses the challenges of breaking into the industry, especially as a woman, and the evolution of the music landscape over the years. Gabrielle emphasizes the impor...
Send a text 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 artistry and business, the importance of mentorship, and her innovative approach to digital education through action-based learning. She emphasizes the need for continuous growth in the industry and the challenges faced by hairdressers today, w...
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