Beauty Industry Voices

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In this episode of Beauty Industry Voices, LuLu Benavidez welcomes Jonathan, Executive Director of Seeing for Ourselves. From his childhood in the Bronx and career with New York City Transit to his work in books and PBS documentaries, Jonathan shares how storytelling became the thread connecting his life’s work.

Discover how participatory photography helps public housing residents, people serving probation, and young immigrants share their experiences beyond stereotypes. Jonathan also discusses My Climate Future, a film bringing young people’s perspectives into the climate conversation, and his commitment to continuing foun...

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Stop fighting the mirror and start listening to what your skin is telling you about healthy aging.

On this episode of Beauty Industry Voices, host Lulu Benavidez shares her extensive experience to help you redefine your relationship with time. We often get caught in the trap of chasing external perfection, forgetting that true elegance comes from within. This conversation serves as a guide for anyone ready to prioritize their well-being over societal pressures.

Embracing natural beauty is not about ignoring the changes that come with time; it is about...

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Your Health Matters: Dr. Kristine Gravino on Women's Wellness

When did you last put your own health first?

Dr. Kristine Gravino for an important conversation about women's health, self-care, and the importance of understanding our physical well-being at every stage of life.

As working women, mothers, caregivers, and entrepreneurs, we often put everyone else's needs ahead of our own. But taking care of ourselves is not a luxury—it's a necessity.

Dr. Gravino shares her perspective on why women need to become more aware of th...

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Le discusses her Mid-Century Audit and the philosophy that guides her work: one body, one journey, one lifetime. For those feeling overwhelmed by modern exercise advice, this conversation provides a refreshing look at midlife fitness and how to adapt your physical routine to your current chapter. As a dedicated fitness coach, Le emphasizes that effective training should be progressive, not aggressive. She explains the importance of prioritizing everyday movement and shares how LuLu’s own training has evolved over their years of collaboration. Whether you are adjusting to life transitions or seeking a mo...

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In this inspiring episode of Beauty Industry Voices, LuLu Benavidez and co-host Sue Hanson welcome Janie Tongue, Editor-in-Chief of Independent Beauty Professional Magazine, international educator, former salon owner, and founder of IBP Media Concierge.

From growing up with a hairdresser mother to owning a salon in Florida, educating around the world, and launching a beauty magazine during the pandemic, Janie's journey shows the power of saying YES.

Janie shares why credibility matters more than temporary attention, how relationships open doors, and why some of the beauty industry's most valuable...

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Meaningful conversations happen when we choose to leave a mark. Join LuLu, Sue, and Joann Rodriguez for a raw discussion.

In this episode, we explore the depth of personal legacy and the importance of ensuring our stories aren't erased by time. It is a candid look at how we show up for one another, capturing the genuine reactions and shared sentiments that define our connections.

Whether you want to deepen your personal relationships or find inspiration in others' stories, this conversation offers space to reflect on what truly matters...

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What happens when imagination steps off the page and becomes a living work of art?

LuLu Benavidez and co-host Sue Krukonis Hanson welcome Olga Saretsky, founder of Kikimora Studio, for an inspiring conversation about creativity, authenticity and persistence.

Olga shares her journey from dancer and choreographer to the creator of extraordinary Living Art and wearable sculptures. She reveals the fashion show that changed her direction, why covering the face gave her greater artistic freedom, and how she continued creating even when others didn’t understand her vision.

Ol...

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Welcome to Beauty Industry Voices, formerly known as Artists, Icons, and Entrepreneurs.

The name and format may be changing, but the heart of our podcast remains the same. Host LuLu Benavidez will continue sharing meaningful conversations with beauty professionals, artists, educators, wellness experts, photographers, entrepreneurs, community leaders, and passionate people with extraordinary stories.

Different co-hosts will also join LuLu based on each guest and subject, bringing fresh perspectives to every conversation.

Follow or subscribe and join us for this exciting new chapter—where every voice has a st...

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In this episode, Maria shares how she grew her Instagram following from just over 2,000 to more than 177,000 followers by creating practical, no-nonsense special occasion hairstyling tutorials.

She talks about developing techniques for fine and thinning hair, the influence of legendary educator Martin Parsons, why mastering technique comes before creativity, and the discipline behind creating her content week after week.

Maria also reveals her Instagram routine, why she posts her content manually, the importance of engaging with followers, and one of the biggest mistakes she sees hairstylists make on social...

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What separates a busy stylist from a six-figure stylist?

Salon educator and Trainers Playbook founder Coach Chris Baran shares the systems that help stylists increase their income without trying to do everything themselves.

Chris explains the importance of establishing clear salon standards, assessing each team member’s abilities, and training associates to take responsibility for repeatable services. Strategic delegation allows experienced stylists to concentrate on the creative, higher-value services that clients specifically seek them out for.

Whether you are a salon owner, educator, associate, or stylist, this co...

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What if failure isn’t something to fear—but one of our greatest teachers?

In this episode, we sat down with George Alderete to talk about the experiences that shaped his career in the beauty industry. George shares lessons from competition, education, and teaching, as well as the challenges that helped him grow both personally and professionally.

We explore why failure can be an important part of success, the value of continuing education, and what it means to pass your knowledge on to the next generation.

If you’...

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In this special Summer Series episode, we revisit our conversation with beauty-industry icon Joe Santy.

Joe shares his journey from being nicknamed “Perm Boy” to becoming a respected educator and expert in texture, color, permanent waving, and hair chemistry. He discusses how education and innovation have transformed the beauty industry, as well as the importance of truly understanding the science behind the services we perform.

Joe also shares valuable lessons from his decades of experience and offers encouraging advice for the next generation of hairstylists. This conversation celebrates a care...

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What does it take to grow from a young hairstylist with a pair of scissors into one of the beauty industry’s most respected educators, salon owners, and product innovators?

In this inspiring episode of Artists, Icons, and Entrepreneurs, LuLu Benavidez and Sue Krukonis Hanson sit down with Candy Shaw, widely known throughout the industry as The Balayage Queen.

Candy shares how she began cutting hair at only 13 years old, developed her entrepreneurial spirit, and built a career centered on education, service, innovation, and helping others succeed.

Sh...

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In this special summer episode of Artists, Icons, and Entrepreneurs, LuLu Benavidez and Sue Hanson revisit their inspiring conversation with Ivette Mayo, an award-winning entrepreneur, international author, speaker, business mentor, and powerful advocate for women. Ivette shares valuable lessons about overcoming fear, building confidence, embracing your unique story, and having the courage to create meaningful change. Her message reminds us that success does not begin with having all the answers—it begins with taking the first step. Whether you are building a business, beginning a new chapter, or rediscovering your purpose, this conversation wi...

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Professional makeup artist Marcus Geeter explains why true beauty is actually about building human connections. Learn how to combine confidence and artistry to improve your creative career.

As part of our Artists, Icons, and Entrepreneurs Summer Series, we sit down with Marcus Jeter to challenge traditional beauty standards. He moves the conversation away from surface-level aesthetics, arguing that professional makeup techniques are really about fostering authentic communication. If you are an artist or creative professional, this discussion offers a fresh lens on how your work impacts client relationships.

Marcus...

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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 beauty school graduates understand what comes next after school and how to build careers that are profitable, sustainable, and meaningful. She also talks about the importance of education, confidence, career guidance, and the role salon owners play in supporting new talent.

Chapters:

0:00 — Penny’s Career Journey
0:19 — How Beauty Cast Network Began
1...

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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 new stylist or a seasoned pro, these lessons provide a clear framework for handling difficult consultations and refining your application methods. Beyond technical skill, we discuss the essential soft skills required for effective salon client relations. You will hear firsthand advice on managing expectations and creating an atmosphere that keeps clients coming back. We also examine current beauty...

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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 discuss how Jesse Rodriguez approaches his work to ensure every piece creates a lasting image that stands the test of time. Whether you are interested in the Houston art scene or the creative process, this discussion provides a clear look at his unique perspective on visual storytelling. Beyond his canvases, we touch upon his personal collection. We also...

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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 what it means to grow both personally and professionally while navigating the demands of building a business. Mya reminds us that success is not only about hard work and ambition, but also about balance, self-awareness, and making time to care for yourself along the way.

In this episode, we sit...

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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 education and practice.
We dive deep into the world of hair education, exploring the foundational principles of hair cutting and hair design. This hairdressing course emphasizes that understanding theory enables limitless creativity in every hairstyle. Get ready for some valuable hair tips!

Chapters

00:00 The Art and Science of Haircutting
02:18 Journey into the...

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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.
 
Chapters

00:00 The Art of Consultation in Hair Color
02:20 Brooke LeMasters: A Journey into Color
11:19 Building a Salon Culture: Lessons Learned
15:21 Recognition and Its Impact on Creativity
18:11 Behind the Scenes: Preparing for Competitions
22:20 Bridging the Gap: Color Theory and Practical Application
26:10 The Next Chapter: Embracing Growth and Authenticity
30:26 A...

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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" and how embracing "creativity" allowed him to step beyond traditional boundaries.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Pioneers of Hair Design
00:16 Christopher Brooker's Impact on Hair Fashion
01:06 Iconic Styles: Mia Farrow and Greek Goddess Cut
01:33 Innovations: Wash and Wear Hair and Punk Precursor
02:26 Brooker's Leadership at Vidal Sassoon
02:55 Personal Journey and...

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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 elevating creativity in a tech-driven world. 

Chapters
00:00
The Human Touch in Technology
02:06
Introducing Marcy Kona: A Creative Visionary
10:52
Navigating Change and Personal Growth
18:16
The Role of Creativity in the Beauty Industry
26:46
Balancing Technology and Human Connection
32:20
Mentorship and Ego in Creative Spaces
36:05
Legacy a...

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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" allowed him to step beyond traditional boundaries, even as his brothers taught him "how to cut hair". This journey highlights valuable "personal development" lessons learned early on, emphasizing how stepping outside the box can lead to fulfilling ventures.

00:00 The Barbering Legacy Begins
02:32 Evolution of Barbering and Customer Service
05:52 Creativity and Innovation in Barbering<...

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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 personal growth and effective business communication contribute to successful ventures. The conversation also touches on embracing new ideas and the value of individually crafted pieces.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Ruth Roche and Her Journey
02:59 The Impact of Mentorship and Awards on Creativity
06:12 The Importance of Teamwork in Creative Projects
08:57 Exploring the Sugar High Collection
11:53...

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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 travel, and how he transforms hair into wearable art, pushing boundaries in the industry. In this episode, we discuss the creative process behind editorial photography and the role of a creative director. We explore how drawing and sketching can be foundational to developing ideas, taking inspiration from a personal process of quick sketches pinned to a...

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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 like the Frida Festival, and her ongoing projects that celebrate and empower Latin culture. 

Lizbeth reflects on her upbringing and experiences, stating that where one is born matters less than how one grows. She shares a personal realization about something special and mentions the Latin Grammys in Houston in 2007, encouraging perseverance, drawing on key life lessons, and p...

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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 purpose in life through this experience and the self-development gained along the way.

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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 Scenes with Paul McCartney

24:34<...

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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 today’s beauty professionals must go beyond technique and embrace a deeper understanding of science, business strategy, and client consultation. As clients become more informed—especially about topics such as hair loss, scalp health, and personalized services—stylists need to continually expand their knowledge to stay relevant and build trust.

We a...

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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.

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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 on building trust with clients, managing stress during photo shoots, and the importance of continuous education in the beauty field. The...

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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 battle with the disease. The conversation wraps up with rapid-fire questions that reveal her insights and future aspirations in teaching and...

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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 takes to build wigs for live performance—historical accuracy, collaboration with directors and costume designers, and the pr...

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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 training is no longer optional—and how salons can create clear, repeatable pathways that help stylists and educators grow faster, with...

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 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 experiences provide valuable lessons for anyone involved in education and parenting.

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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 family life influenced his career decisions. In this segment, David Velasco shares his journey from working at Bumble...

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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.

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@lulubenavidez

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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 interviews, culminating in a message of hope and looking forward to the future

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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 looks to the future, Renee aims to continue using her photography to raise awareness and create meaningful connections within communities.

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