Artists, Icons and Entrepreneurs

Send us Fan Mail 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.co...

Send us Fan Mail 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 serv...

Send us Fan Mail 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, fosteri...

Send us Fan Mail 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 al...

Send us Fan Mail 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 journe...

Send us Fan Mail 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...

Send us Fan Mail 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, especial...

Send us Fan Mail 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 empha...

Send us Fan Mail 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 thrill of performing on stage, and the intricate process of creating haute couture hair designs. Throughout the conversation, Omar emphasizes th...

Send us Fan Mail 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 encompasses more than just aesthetics—it's about wellness and authenticity. Marcus shares insights on navigating live television, his ski...

Send us Fan Mail 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 a high-powered corporate career in finance to pursuing her passion for triathlon, and now thriving in real estate. The conversation explor...

Send us Fan Mail 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 waving and bond-building technology with Olaplex. He emphasizes the importance of understanding hair chemistry, the evolution of teach...

Send us Fan Mail 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 his unique artistic process, the evolution of his teaching methods, and the influence of living in Yucatan on his work. The conversation also...

Send us Fan Mail 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 beauty school to creating a digital platform that connects beauty graduates with employers. The conversation explores the challenges faced by be...

Send us Fan Mail 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 decorated athlete in gravel cycling. She discusses the impact of personal loss on her life choices, her battle with Crohn's disease,...

Send us Fan Mail 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, including multiple awards and her unique approach to balancing hair and makeup artistry. The conversation delves into her signature sty...

Send us Fan Mail 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 educator and entrepreneur, discussing the highs and lows of his career, the founding of the Summit Salon Business, and his insights on grief and...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Artists, Icons, and Entrepreneurs, hosts Lulu Benavidez and Sue Krokonis Hanson welcome Janine Jarman, a celebrity hairstylist and founder of Curl Cult. Janine shares her journey from a young hair enthusiast to a salon owner and innovator in the beauty industry. She discusses her experience on the reality show Sheer Genius, her passion for textured hair, and the...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Artists, Icons, and Entrepreneurs, hosts Lulu Benavidez and Sue Krokonis Hansen interview Robert Reed, founder of Ergo Research. They discuss Robert's journey in the beauty industry, the challenges he faced, including a devastating fire at his headquarters, and how he overcame adversity with the help of his dedicated team. The conversation delves into the i...

Send us Fan Mail In this engaging conversation, William shares his journey from Belgium to becoming a world-renowned hairstylist. He discusses the importance of passion, education, and mentorship in the hairdressing industry, as well as his creative process in designing collections. William emphasizes the significance of networking and collaboration, overcoming challenges, and the role of experien...

Send us Fan Mail Ivette Mayo emphasizes the significance of lifelong learning qualities for personal growth and career development. She stresses the importance of continuing to learn and adapt to change in today's rapidly evolving world. Discover how to cultivate a growth mindset and embrace adult education to achieve your full potential. www.lulubenavidez.com @lulubenavidez www.evolvehairsol...

Send us Fan Mail In this conversation, Alan Papaleo shares his journey from martial arts to hairdressing, emphasizing the importance of stance, technique, and communication in the beauty industry. He discusses the significance of quality tools, the need for continuous education, and the art of building client relationships through effective consultations. The conversation highlights the challenges...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, Lulu Benavidez and Sue Krukonis Hansen interview Aili Puss, an acclaimed hair educator from Estonia. Aili shares her inspiring journey from wanting to be a kindergarten teacher to becoming a global long hair stylist and educator. The conversation explores the differences in hair education between Estonia and America, the importance of practice and continuous learn...

Send us Fan Mail In this engaging conversation, Lulu Benavidez and Sue Krukonis Hanson interview Carlos Velenzuela, exploring themes of education, writing, creativity, and self-care within the beauty industry. Carlos shares his journey, the importance of showing up, and how education shapes personal and professional growth. He emphasizes the value of writing as a means of expression and reflection...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, hosts Lulu Benavidez and Sue Krokonis Hanson engage with Sonya Dove, a renowned figure in the hairdressing industry. They explore Sonya's journey from working in a salon to becoming a celebrated artist and entrepreneur. The conversation delves into the significance of competition in honing skills, the importance of staying relevant in a changing industry, and...