I’m An Artist, Not A Salesman Podcast

Hosted by Luis Guzman

BusinessInterviews guests

Website RSS feed LinkedIn YouTube

Episodes

Latest episode

Aug 2026

Language

EN-US

About the show

A powerful and transparent podcast that showcases the journey of entrepreneurs and creatives, offering insight and motivation to aspiring individuals. Through candid conversations and real-world advice, listeners gain practical tips on building a brand, pricing their work, and mastering social media—all while staying true to their artistic vision. We are all artists in our own right, and this show reminds you that your artistry should be displayed for the world to see. Tune in for inspiration to help both your art and career thrive.

Listen to episodes

60 recent

August 25, 20261 hr 41 min

The Real Business of Restaurants: Jamie Knott on Pressure, Purpose, Sobriety, and Staying Hungry

In this episode of I’m an Artist, Not a Salesman, Luis Guzman sits down with chef, restaurateur, entrepreneur, and hospitality personality Jamie Knott for a raw conversation about building a career, building a brand, facing personal struggles, and continuing to move forward when life gets complicated. Jamie Knott started working in restaurants at just 13 years old as a busboy. What began as a first job quickly became a passion for the energy, pressure, creativity, and camaraderie of the kitchen. After graduating from the New York Restaurant School and working under chefs including Clifford Crooks, Jamie went on to become an executive chef and eventually a restaurant owner. From the Saddle River Inn to Cellar 335 and Madame, Jamie has spent decades building restaurants and learning what it really takes to survive in the hospitality business. He gets real about the rising costs of food and labor, the pressure of keeping restaurants open, taking financial risks, and why success rarely happens overnight. This conversation goes far beyond food and restaurants. Jamie opens up about sobriety, addiction, childhood experiences, self-doubt, fatherhood, and the pressure that comes with being responsible for businesses, employees, and family. He shares his experience staying sober for 14 years, returning to drinking, and learning that recovery is not always a straight line. Jamie also explains how cooking became a way to focus his energy and deal with challenges in his life. For him, the kitchen was more than a career. It became a place where he could completely immerse himself in the work, stay focused, and turn difficult experiences into something productive. Luis and Jamie also talk about entrepreneurship, social media, and personal branding. Jamie explains how putting his personality on camera has helped grow his restaurants and why people want to connect with the person behind the business. His restaurant videos have reached hundreds of thousands of views, proving that in today's world, the person telling the story can be just as important as the product. A major theme throughout the episode is hospitality and human connection. Jamie believes restaurants are about much more than food. They are about making people feel welcome, appreciated, and taken care of. He shares why his approach with customers and staff is simple: if he can do something for a guest, the answer should be yes. Topics covered in this episode: Jamie Knott's journey from busboy to chef and restaurant owner The reality of running restaurants in today's economy Building the Saddle River Inn, Cellar 335, and Madame Sobriety, addiction, relapse, and recovery Childhood experiences and turning adversity into motivation Fatherhood, financial freedom, and responsibility Social media and building a personal brand Imposter syndrome and the pressure to succeed Hospitality, customer service, and creating memorable experiences Jamie's work with Table to Table and giving back to the community Why staying in motion can help you overcome difficult periods Jamie shares a philosophy that runs through the entire conversation: keep moving forward. There is no perfect balance, no finish line, and no point where everything suddenly becomes easy. You keep learning, keep working, keep creating, and keep finding ways to turn challenges into momentum. Luis and Jamie have the kind of conversation that feels less like a traditional interview and more like two friends sitting down and talking honestly about life. There are plenty of laughs, restaurant stories, business lessons, uncomfortable truths, and vulnerable moments throughout the episode. If you're a chef, artist, entrepreneur, restaurant owner, creative, or business owner trying to build something without losing yourself along the way, this episode is packed with lessons about resilience, authenticity, personal growth, and the realities behind success. Follow I’m an Artist, Not a Salesman and join the conversation.

August 11, 20261 hr 48 min

Steve Ruiz on Betting on Yourself, Puerto Rican Food, Family, and Building a Business That Lasts

What happens when you spend 27 years building a career in healthcare , then decide to bet on yourself and build something of your own? For Steve Ruiz , it meant leaving the comfort of a long career, trusting his instincts, and turning a passion for Puerto Rican food into a growing family business. On this episode of I'm An Artist, Not A Salesman , host Luis Guzman sits down with Steve Ruiz, co-owner of Mama D's Empanadas , to talk about entrepreneurship, Puerto Rican culture, family, risk, resilience, and what it really takes to build a business from the ground up. Steve's journey is anything but predictable. Growing up in Bushwick, Brooklyn , he dreamed of playing professional baseball and even had an opportunity to try out with the Minnesota Twins. After suffering a serious knee injury and experiencing a heart attack at just 18 years old, his path took a completely different direction. He eventually found his way into the medical field, where he spent 27 years working at Hospital for Special Surgery. But while Steve had a stable career, he and his wife, Diana, were building something on the side. What started as a food truck grew over six or seven years, introducing customers throughout New Jersey to authentic Puerto Rican empanadas and cuisine. Eventually, people kept asking the same question: Where can we get your food all the time? That question helped push Steve and his family toward opening Mama D's Empanadas , a brick-and-mortar restaurant in New Jersey. Making that leap wasn't easy. Leaving a 27-year career meant giving up security, taking on risk, learning an entirely new industry, and figuring out how to run everything from food preparation to equipment repairs and customer service. Steve explains why he believes failing is easier than succeeding . Failure can teach you what went wrong and give you another chance to improve. Success brings a different challenge: figuring out how to repeat it and keep moving forward. That mindset has helped Steve approach entrepreneurship with patience, accountability, consistency, and a willingness to learn. A major part of the conversation is the importance of Puerto Rican culture and storytelling through food . Steve isn't simply selling empanadas. He's sharing the food, traditions, memories, and family stories behind them. Mama D's is designed to make people feel at home, whether they're Puerto Rican, Latino, or someone experiencing Puerto Rican cuisine for the first time. Puerto Rican food and culture as a foundation for building a business Leaving a 27-year healthcare career to pursue entrepreneurship Growing from a food truck into a brick-and-mortar restaurant Why consistency and quality matter more than gimmicks Learning from customers and constantly developing new empanada flavors The importance of research before taking a major financial risk Why Steve chose to buy the building instead of simply signing a commercial lease Building a business that can become part of the family's long-term legacy The conversation also gets personal. Steve talks openly about fatherhood, raising his children, and the lessons he shared with his daughter before she entered the U.S. Space Force . His daughter went on to become a cybersecurity expert working with satellites, while his son built his own career in Connecticut. Steve's approach is simple: give your children the tools and guidance they need, but don't force them into the family business. Let them create their own path. Listen to IAANAS Podcast: I'm An Artist, Not A Salesman , hosted by Luis Guzman , for real conversations about creativity, business, culture, personal growth, and the messy road to building a life on your own terms.

August 4, 20261 hr 48 min

Tim Gillen on Surviving a Near-Death Health Scare While Building Jersey Jungle Juice and His Legacy

On this episode of I'm an Artist, Not a Salesman , host Luis Guzman sits down with entrepreneur, nightlife promoter, and Jersey Jungle Juice founder Tim Gillen for one of the most personal conversations ever featured on the podcast. While many people know Tim as the guy behind packed venues, successful promotions, and one of New Jersey's fastest-growing spirits brands, very few know the story behind everything that happened when his life changed almost overnight. Tim shares how an unexpected and life-threatening health crisis forced him to stop moving at full speed and completely rethink what success, purpose, and resilience really mean. After years of building relationships, creating unforgettable nightlife experiences, and growing his business, he suddenly found himself fighting for something much bigger than sales, marketing, or expansion. He was fighting for his life. Throughout the conversation, Tim Gillen opens up about discovering he had a severely restricted airway, the frightening moments that led to emergency surgery, flatlining in the hospital, and waking up to a completely different reality. He explains what it has been like living with a tracheostomy, adapting to major lifestyle changes, and continuing to run a business while facing challenges most people never see. Beyond the health journey, this episode dives into the mindset that helped Tim refuse to quit. From his early days working in New Jersey nightlife to helping build legendary events alongside longtime collaborators, he explains why relationships, trust, consistency, and showing up for people have always mattered more than shortcuts. His philosophy of surrounding himself with people he genuinely believes in has shaped every chapter of his career. Luis Guzman and Tim also discuss the realities of entrepreneurship, building a recognizable brand, earning trust with customers, creating authentic partnerships, and why personal integrity still matters in business. They explore the difference between chasing money and creating lasting value, along with the importance of staying true to yourself even when opportunities tempt you to compromise your principles. The conversation naturally shifts into topics that every creative entrepreneur can relate to, including burnout, discipline, fitness, confidence, handling criticism, and learning to slow down without giving up on ambitious goals. Tim's story serves as a reminder that setbacks don't always signal the end of the journey. Sometimes they become the reason you discover a stronger version of yourself. In this episode, you'll hear about: Tim Gillen's journey from New Jersey nightlife into entrepreneurship. Building the Jersey Jungle Juice brand from the ground up. Surviving a near-death health scare and adjusting to life after emergency surgery. Why networking, honesty, and long-term relationships create lasting business success. The mental side of entrepreneurship, resilience, fitness, and personal growth. Lessons on leadership, perseverance, branding, and never giving up when life changes unexpectedly. If you've been looking for motivation without empty clichés, you'll appreciate how open both Luis Guzman and Tim Gillen are throughout this conversation. Their discussion highlights the value of authenticity, hard work, loyalty, and finding reasons to keep moving forward, even when circumstances seem impossible. If you enjoyed this episode of I'm an Artist, Not a Salesman , be sure to subscribe so you never miss future conversations with artists, entrepreneurs, and creative professionals who are building meaningful careers without sacrificing who they are. Leave a review, share this episode with someone who needs to hear Tim's story, and join the conversation by following the podcast and connecting with Luis Guzman on social media. Your support helps the show reach more creatives who are chasing big goals while staying true to themselves.

July 28, 20261 hr 28 min

DJ Avision on Building a Music Career, Pizza Business, and Brand That Stands the Test of Time

In this episode of I'm an Artist, Not a Salesman , host Luis Guzman sits down with Anthony Cardinale , better known as DJ Avision , for a conversation that goes far beyond music. While many people know Anthony as an internationally touring DJ and producer with a signature sound rooted in 90s house music , there's another side to his story that deserves just as much attention. He's also a husband, father, entrepreneur, co-owner of The Bar in South Amboy, New Jersey, and co-founder of CJ Pizza , one of the area's fastest-growing wood-fired pizza brands. What makes this conversation so interesting is how every part of Anthony's career connects together. The same creativity that fuels his music also shapes the restaurants, food concepts, branding, and customer experiences he builds. Whether he's producing a track, creating a menu, or designing a neighborhood gathering place, the goal is always the same: make people feel something. Luis and Anthony spend time talking about what it really takes to build multiple businesses while staying true to yourself. They discuss taking calculated risks, learning through failure, and making tough decisions during uncertain times. The pandemic forced Anthony and his longtime business partner to rethink everything they knew about business. What started as backyard pizza parties quickly turned into pop-up events, food trucks, and eventually a full restaurant that continues to grow. The conversation also dives into branding , hospitality , and why details matter. Anthony explains why he refuses to cut corners on ingredients, customer experience, or the atmosphere people walk into. From sourcing premium products to creating a welcoming environment where everyone feels comfortable, every decision reflects the long-term vision instead of chasing quick wins. Music fans will appreciate hearing about Anthony's journey as DJ Avision , from playing drums with his father and sneaking into clubs as a teenager to touring internationally and earning respect from some of the biggest names in electronic music. He shares how the sounds of New York house music shaped his production style and why staying authentic has always mattered more than following trends. The discussion also highlights the influence of family, mentors, and lifelong friendships. Anthony shares stories about learning from his parents, working alongside trusted partners, and surrounding himself with people who challenge him to think bigger. It's a reminder that success rarely happens alone and that great businesses are often built on even stronger relationships. If you're an artist trying to build a career, a small business owner looking for fresh ideas, or someone chasing multiple passions at once, this episode is packed with practical lessons you can apply immediately. It's an honest look at balancing creativity with business while building something that lasts. In this episode, you'll hear about: DJ Avision's path from local DJ to international touring artist. Building CJ Pizza from backyard events into a growing business. The story behind creating The Bar and its community-first atmosphere. Why branding goes far beyond logos and social media. Learning through failure, pressure, and calculated risks. Growing multiple businesses without sacrificing quality. Family influence, mentorship, and long-term partnerships. Staying creative while managing the realities of entrepreneurship. If you enjoyed this episode of I'm an Artist, Not a Salesman , be sure to subscribe so you never miss a conversation. Leave a review on your favorite podcast platform, share this episode with another creative or entrepreneur, and let us know what resonated with you most. Follow Luis Guzman and the podcast on social media for behind-the-scenes content, upcoming guests, and future episodes, and join the conversation by commenting with the biggest lesson you took away from this interview with DJ Avision .

July 14, 20261 hr 24 min

The Truth About Modern Wellness: Sam Tejada on Health, Peptides, and Building Lasting Discipline

What does it really take to build a healthier life without getting lost in trends, misinformation, and quick fixes? In this episode of I'm an Artist, Not a Salesman , host Luis Guzman sits down with entrepreneur, author, and wellness expert Sam Tejada for a deep conversation about modern wellness, preventive health, and the discipline required to create lasting change. Sam shares his incredible journey from becoming a certified lifeguard at just 14 years old to serving as a firefighter and paramedic before launching Liquid Vita , a company focused on helping people take control of their health through data-driven care. Along the way, he explains how his experiences inside emergency medicine completely changed the way he viewed the healthcare system and why he became passionate about prevention instead of simply treating illness after it appears. Luis and Sam dive into the growing movement toward functional medicine , discussing why so many people are questioning traditional healthcare, how lifestyle choices affect long-term health, and why understanding your body is one of the greatest investments you can make. They also unpack the role of toxins, inflammation, nutrition, recovery, and exercise while separating solid information from the hype that often floods social media. The conversation doesn't stop at science. It becomes personal as Luis opens up about his own transformation after losing more than 120 pounds. He shares the mental battles that continue long after the weight comes off, including body dysmorphia, fear of slipping back into old habits, and the daily choice to stay disciplined. Sam offers practical advice for building healthy routines that become part of your identity instead of temporary resolutions. The episode also explores the growing interest in peptides, longevity medicine, biohacking, and advanced health testing. Sam explains how tools like DEXA scans , VO2 Max testing , blood analysis, toxic load testing, and metabolic assessments can provide a clearer picture of overall health instead of relying on guesswork. He also discusses why personalized treatment plans often produce better long-term results than one-size-fits-all wellness trends. Throughout the conversation, both Luis and Sam emphasize that knowledge alone isn't enough. Real change comes from applying what you learn consistently, making better choices every day, and building habits that support the life you want to live. Whether you're an artist, entrepreneur, business owner, or simply someone looking to improve your health, this episode offers practical insights that extend far beyond fitness. In this episode, you'll hear about: Sam Tejada's journey from firefighter to entrepreneur and founder of Liquid Vita The difference between reactive medicine and preventive healthcare Why discipline outlasts motivation when building healthier habits Functional medicine, biohacking, peptides, and modern wellness The importance of DEXA scans, VO2 Max testing, blood work, and personalized health data Nutrition, inflammation, toxins, recovery, and metabolic health Luis Guzman's personal weight-loss journey and lessons learned after losing over 120 pounds Building a sustainable lifestyle instead of chasing short-term results If you enjoyed this episode of I'm an Artist, Not a Salesman , be sure to subscribe so you never miss a conversation with entrepreneurs, creatives, and industry leaders who share the real stories behind their success. Leave a rating and review on your favorite podcast platform, share this episode with a friend who could benefit from the conversation, and follow Luis Guzman and the podcast on social media for behind-the-scenes content, upcoming guests, and new episodes. Your support helps the show reach more creatives who want to build successful careers without sacrificing who they are.

July 7, 20262 hr 5 min

How Jermaine Hall Built BET's Digital Strategy and Why Great Leaders Start as Great Teammates

In this episode of I'm an Artist, Not a Salesman , host Luis Guzman sits down with media executive, content strategist, and entrepreneur Jermaine Hall for a conversation about building brands, leading creative teams, and finding success without losing sight of what matters most. From his work at BET and Vibe Magazine to launching Level Man , Jermaine shares the lessons he learned while helping legacy media companies adapt to a rapidly changing digital world and why great leadership always starts with understanding people. The conversation opens with an honest look at preparation, creativity, and the hidden work behind great storytelling. Luis and Jermaine discuss why the best interviews, introductions, and content often look effortless even though they're built on hours of research, editing, and refinement. They compare notes on crafting memorable experiences for audiences and explain why respect for someone's time should always be at the center of every creative project. Jermaine also breaks down his philosophy on leadership. Rather than chasing titles, he explains why spending years as one of the "cogs in the machine" gave him the knowledge to eventually become the person creating the vision. Learning every layer of a business—from content creation to operations, budgeting, hiring, and team management—gave him the confidence to build organizations that can grow long after one person's ideas are introduced. One of the most fascinating parts of the discussion explores Jermaine's work helping reshape BET's digital strategy. He shares how his team developed original programming built around creators, nostalgia, and audience connection long before those approaches became common across digital media. The conversation offers a behind-the-scenes look at developing original intellectual property, identifying trends before they explode, and finding the right people to execute an idea once the strategy is in place. Their shared love of film , music , and storytelling naturally leads into an extended conversation about directors like Martin Scorsese and Steven Spielberg , performances from Leonardo DiCaprio , and the role nostalgia plays in keeping great art alive across generations. They talk about why some movies continue to resonate decades later, what separates timeless storytelling from passing trends, and how younger generations are rediscovering physical media, movie theaters, CDs, and shared experiences. The episode also explores more personal territory as Jermaine reflects on launching Level Man , a platform created to provide meaningful conversations centered around Black men, identity, culture, business, and personal growth. He discusses the challenges of building mission-driven media while navigating changing business climates and explains why creating spaces for honest conversations still matters. Throughout the episode, you'll hear practical advice for artists, entrepreneurs, marketers, and anyone trying to build a meaningful career in today's digital world. Some of the topics covered include: Building brands that connect with people instead of chasing trends. Leadership , team building, and learning every level of a business. The evolution of digital media , journalism, and content strategy. Why storytelling remains one of the most valuable business skills. Networking in a world dominated by social media and personal branding. Lessons from BET , Vibe Magazine , and Level Man . Creativity, nostalgia, film, music, and the lasting power of great art. If you enjoyed this episode of I'm an Artist, Not a Salesman , be sure to subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts so you never miss a new conversation. Share this episode with another creative, entrepreneur, or business owner who could benefit from Jermaine's perspective, and leave a rating or review to help more listeners discover the show.

June 30, 20261 hr 12 min

Building a Food Photography Brand While Staying a Father First with Brian Juarbe

On this episode of I’m an Artist, Not a Salesman , host Luis Guzman sits down with Brian Juarbe , a food photographer, portrait photographer, content creator, and proud father whose creative path started in a way most artists never expect: completely by accident. What began as a dad wanting better photos of his son’s sports moments slowly turned into a full-blown obsession with photography, visual storytelling, and eventually building a recognizable presence in the world of food photography and restaurant content. One unexpected viral photo opened the door, but what kept the momentum alive was something deeper: consistency, curiosity, and an artist’s eye for details most people never notice. This conversation goes far beyond cameras, Instagram, and perfectly lit meals. Brian opens up about growing up in a single-parent household , navigating life without a father figure, and how becoming a father himself changed everything. There’s an honest discussion about breaking cycles, creating purpose, and making intentional choices when life doesn’t hand you a roadmap. Luis and Brian explore what happens when passion arrives later in life and why creativity doesn’t always show up in the form you expected. You’ll hear stories about: Building a creative identity without formal training Turning a viral moment into long-term creative growth Fatherhood and creating memories through art The discipline behind food photography and content creation Finding purpose after setbacks and loss Developing a recognizable visual style Balancing a full-time career while pursuing creative work Why storytelling matters more than algorithms One of the most refreshing parts of this episode is hearing Brian talk about photography as something bigger than content. To him, great photography isn’t about posting more. It’s about creating emotion. It’s about making people feel something through a still image. Luis connects deeply with that idea and shares his own experiences as a creator, talking about perfectionism, creative obsession, and the invisible details artists lose sleep over while everyone else says, “Looks great.” Together they unpack the reality that most creatives know all too well: people only see the finished product. They don’t see the hours editing. They don’t see the second-guessing. They don’t see the dozens of versions before the final one. And they definitely don’t see the moments where artists wonder if any of it is even worth it. There’s also a fun side to this episode as the conversation shifts into food culture , family traditions, Puerto Rican roots, restaurant experiences, and the memories attached to meals. Brian shares how photographing food became less about showing what’s on the plate and more about capturing moments and experiences people connect with emotionally. The discussion also touches on health, balance, and staying grounded while working in a world surrounded by indulgence. For anyone trying to grow creatively without losing themselves in the process, there’s a lot here to connect with. What makes Brian’s story stand out is that there was no perfect blueprint. No expensive degree. No overnight success. Just showing up, getting better, staying curious, and putting heart into the work. That’s the spirit of I’m an Artist, Not a Salesman . Creative careers rarely move in straight lines. Sometimes the thing that changes your life starts as a hobby, a side project, or a random photo you almost didn’t post. If you’re a photographer, content creator, artist, entrepreneur, parent, or someone still trying to figure out what your thing is, this episode is packed with perspective and reminders that purpose can show up in unexpected places. Follow Luis Guzman and the podcast on social media for episode clips, behind-the-scenes moments, upcoming guests, and more conversations built for artists trying to create meaningful careers without losing who they are. Keep creating. Keep showing up. Your story matters.

June 16, 20261 hr 34 min

Empanadas, Food Trucks and Resilience: Gustavo Gutierrez on Building a Cuban Cafe Brand

This episode of I'm An Artist, Not A Salesman Podcast with host Luis Guzman features chef and entrepreneur Gustavo Gutierrez , a culinary force behind a growing Cuban cafe brand built from food trucks, late nights, and relentless experimentation. Gustavo’s story moves from Union City kitchens and fine dining pressure cookers to building a multi-location food business rooted in culture, discipline, and survival instincts shaped long before he ever stepped into a professional kitchen. We get into street-to-chef transition, culinary school, Cirque-like fine dining, mentorship under tough chefs, learning systems, cost control, and why real restaurant training is more about repetition and problem solving than recipes. Gustavo breaks down how he learned speed, precision, and respect for ingredients while working brutal stations and long hours before applying those lessons to empanadas and Cuban sandwiches. Then the conversation shifts into entrepreneurship, pricing philosophy, and customer perception. Gustavo challenges the idea that food should be judged only by price, comparing it to luxury goods and explaining how quality ingredients, handmade masa, and protein-heavy empanadas come at a cost that reflects real labor and standards. We also explore leadership and ownership. Gustavo talks about running multiple food trucks, training staff, dealing with breakdowns, and staying composed when everything hits at once. From motor failures to last-minute shortages, he explains how business owners become problem solvers first and chefs second. One of the most powerful parts of the episode focuses on mindset, ego, and accountability. Gustavo opens up about cutting ties with destructive environments, learning when to step back from people he loves, and understanding that personal growth sometimes requires distance. He also reflects on entitlement culture, social media criticism, and how anonymous opinions rarely reflect real experience. The reality of fine dining kitchens and what most chefs never talk about Building empanadas from scratch, including handmade masa and protein-first recipes Why pricing food is about ingredients, labor, and sustainability, not comparison Managing food trucks, breakdowns, and unpredictable operations under pressure Leadership lessons from training staff and building trust in a kitchen team The shift from hustling in the streets to building structured business systems How ego, discipline, and accountability shape long-term success To close, Gustavo and Luis reflect on growth, long-term vision, and what it means to build something that lasts beyond personal effort. From kitchen floors to business ownership, the conversation ties together creativity, discipline, and resilience as core ingredients for any entrepreneur trying to build without losing identity along the way. Listeners are left with a grounded look at what it really takes to scale a food brand while staying connected to culture and craft. Listeners who connect with this conversation can follow the journey of IAANAS Podcast as it continues highlighting creatives, chefs, and entrepreneurs who are building careers through skill, discipline, and lived experience rather than shortcuts. Each episode brings forward raw conversations that explore the realities behind food, business ownership, and creative independence. For updates, behind-the-scenes content, and new episode drops, stay connected with host Luis Guzman across platforms where he shares insights from ongoing interviews and day-to-day production. Follow host Luis Guzman for more behind-the-scenes moments, insights, and upcoming projects tied to the podcast. Share this episode with anyone exploring food entrepreneurship or building a creative business from the ground up.

June 9, 20261 hr 26 min

Turning Grief Into Comedy: Kristin Falcone on Creating Characters and Staying Authentic

In this episode of I'm an Artist, Not a Salesman , host Luis Guzman sits down with the hilarious and heartfelt Kristin Falcone , a comedian, content creator, hairdresser, and performer who has built a loyal audience by bringing authentic Italian-American family life to the screen. Known for her unforgettable characters, sharp observations, and viral comedy sketches, Kristin shares the story behind her rise from creating content during the uncertainty of COVID to becoming a recognizable voice in comedy while still balancing a demanding career behind the scenes in television and the beauty industry. What begins as a conversation about comedy quickly turns into a powerful discussion about grief, anxiety, faith, family, creativity, and the challenges of building a life around artistic passion. Kristin opens up about the profound impact her late father continues to have on her work and how much of her creative journey feels like a love letter to his memory. She reflects on growing up in a close-knit Italian-American family, the lessons she learned from both of her parents, and how those experiences became the foundation for the characters and stories that have connected with audiences across social media. Throughout the conversation, Luis and Kristin explore the emotional realities that many artists and entrepreneurs face but rarely discuss publicly. From struggling with anxiety and overthinking to learning how to establish boundaries and stop people-pleasing, Kristin shares honest insights about the personal growth required to pursue creative work in a public space. Her willingness to talk openly about self-doubt, resilience, and finding purpose makes this episode relatable for anyone trying to build something meaningful while navigating everyday life. The discussion also dives into the modern creator economy and the opportunities and challenges that come with social media success. Kristin explains why follower counts and algorithms can sometimes become distractions, how she handles criticism and imitation, and why staying grounded remains one of her biggest priorities. Despite growing recognition and exciting opportunities, she remains committed to authenticity, kindness, and maintaining the relationships that helped shape her career. One of the most inspiring parts of the episode is hearing how Kristin continues to juggle multiple professional roles. While many people assume content creation is now her full-time career, she still works as a professional hairdresser and television hairstylist while pursuing comedy, live performances, and digital content. Her story serves as a reminder that success often happens through persistence, consistency, and a willingness to keep showing up long before the world notices. In this episode, you'll hear discussions about: Building a creative career without losing your identity Turning grief and personal challenges into artistic expression Managing anxiety, self-doubt, and people-pleasing tendencies The influence of family on creativity and storytelling Growing an audience through authenticity and consistency Social media, content creation, and creator burnout Comedy, character development, and finding your unique voice Balancing multiple careers while pursuing artistic goals Faith, personal growth, and maintaining perspective Learning to protect your energy and establish healthy boundaries If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe, follow, and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform. Share the episode with a friend, fellow creative, or entrepreneur who could benefit from Kristin's perspective and journey. To stay connected with Luis Guzman and future episodes of I'm an Artist, Not a Salesman , follow the podcast on social media, join the conversation in the comments, and let us know which guests and topics you'd like to hear next. Your support helps the show continue highlighting the struggles and victories of creators who are building meaningful careers on their own terms.

June 2, 20261 hr 12 min

The Quiet Architect: Byron Kirkland on Music, Marketing, Golf, and Leaving a Legacy

In this episode of I'm an Artist, Not a Salesman , host Luis Guzman sits down with Byron Kirkland for a wide-ranging conversation about culture, business, creativity, faith, family, and the unexpected paths that can shape a career. Byron has spent years building relationships, creating opportunities, and working behind the scenes in spaces that connect music, branding, lifestyle, and entrepreneurship. What comes through in this conversation is his ability to move between industries while staying grounded in the values that matter most to him. The discussion explores Byron’s journey from being connected to the world of hip-hop and entertainment to building something entirely his own through Masterpiece . Along the way, he shares lessons learned from working around influential artists, brands, and decision-makers, while also explaining why long-term thinking often beats chasing quick wins. For creatives trying to build sustainable careers, Byron offers a refreshing perspective on patience, consistency, and staying focused on the bigger picture. A major theme throughout the episode is the relationship between identity and opportunity . Byron talks about how personal values can shape business decisions and why understanding who you are can be one of the biggest advantages in any industry. Whether you're an artist, entrepreneur, freelancer, or business owner, the conversation highlights the importance of building genuine connections instead of treating every interaction like a transaction. Luis and Byron also discuss the role of faith and family in entrepreneurship. Success is often presented as a solo journey, but Byron shares how the people around us can influence the direction of our lives and careers. The conversation digs into responsibility, leadership, and the challenge of balancing ambition with the relationships that matter most. These moments give the episode a deeper and more personal feel beyond traditional business advice. Another fascinating part of the discussion centers around Byron’s experiences within music culture and his connections to artists such as Machine Gun Kelly (MGK) and Cordae . Rather than focusing on celebrity stories alone, Byron explains what he learned from observing talented people operate at a high level. The lessons apply far beyond entertainment and offer valuable insight into preparation, professionalism, and maintaining strong relationships over time. The conversation also explores Byron's connection to the golf industry , a space that has opened new doors and created unexpected opportunities. What might seem like a completely different world from music actually shares many of the same principles: networking, branding, community, and trust. Byron explains how understanding culture and people can help bridge seemingly unrelated industries and create unique business opportunities. Throughout the episode, listeners will hear practical insights about building a brand, navigating career transitions, developing authentic relationships, and creating opportunities through consistency. Byron's story is a reminder that success is rarely a straight line and that some of the most meaningful opportunities come from being prepared when the right moment arrives. Whether you're building a personal brand, launching a business, pursuing a creative career, or simply looking for inspiration from someone who has successfully navigated multiple industries, this conversation is packed with ideas that can help you think differently about success and the path it takes to get there.