I’m An Artist, Not A Salesman Podcast

Hosted by Luis Guzman

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Jun 2026

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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.

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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 aboutBuilding empanadas from scratch, including handmade masa and protein-first recipesWhy pricing food is about ingredients, labor, and sustainability, not comparisonManaging food trucks, breakdowns, and unpredictable operations under pressureLeadership lessons from training staff and building trust in a kitchen teamThe shift from hustling in the streets to building structured business systemsHow ego, discipline, and accountability shape long-term successTo 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 identityTurning grief and personal challenges into artistic expressionManaging anxiety, self-doubt, and people-pleasing tendenciesThe influence of family on creativity and storytellingGrowing an audience through authenticity and consistencySocial media, content creation, and creator burnoutComedy, character development, and finding your unique voiceBalancing multiple careers while pursuing artistic goalsFaith, personal growth, and maintaining perspectiveLearning to protect your energy and establish healthy boundariesIf 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.

May 19, 202633 min

After Rock Bottom: Craig Carton on Gambling, Prison, Ego, Recovery, and Rebuilding His Life Again

What happens when one of the biggest voices in sports radio loses everything?In this powerful episode of I’m an Artist, Not a Salesman, host Luis Guzman sits down with legendary broadcaster Craig Carton for one of the most honest and personal conversations of his career. From dominating New York sports radio on WFAN to serving time in federal prison, Craig opens up about the rise, the collapse, the addiction that nearly destroyed him, and the long road back toward healing, accountability, and purpose.This isn’t a surface-level interview about headlines or tabloid moments. This is a raw conversation about ego, trauma, gambling addiction, fatherhood, fame, and what happens when your entire identity gets ripped away from you. Craig speaks openly about the unresolved childhood trauma he carried for decades, how gambling became both an escape and an obsession, and why getting caught may have ultimately saved his life.Luis guides the conversation in a way that lets listeners hear the human being behind the radio persona. You’ll hear Craig discuss the pressure of becoming famous, chasing bigger opportunities, and feeding an ego that was spiraling out of control while publicly appearing successful. He also reflects on the darkest moments of his life, including the morning FBI agents arrested him and the emotional reality of entering federal prison for the first time.One of the strongest themes throughout this episode is redemption. Craig doesn’t dodge responsibility or try to rewrite history. He owns every mistake while also sharing how recovery, therapy, family, and spirituality helped him reconnect with the person he believes he always was before addiction took over. His honesty about compulsive gambling and self-destruction makes this one of the most vulnerable episodes the podcast has featured to date.The conversation also dives into Craig’s time in prison and how it completely changed the way he judges people. Some of the men he met behind bars became people he deeply respected, forcing him to rethink the labels society puts on individuals based only on their worst decisions. There’s also humor mixed throughout the episode, from stories about gambling on ridiculous overseas events to prison food lines and Craig’s hilarious “no waiting in line for food” rule after incarceration.Listeners will also hear Craig talk about:His battle with gambling addiction and compulsive behaviorWhy fame became another addictionThe emotional impact prison had on his familyMissing important milestones in his children’s livesRecovery, accountability, and rebuilding trustHis return to sports radio and life after prisonLessons learned from therapy and unresolved traumaHow friendship and support helped save his lifeWhy second chances matterThe chemistry between Luis and Craig gives this episode a natural flow that feels more like two people having a real conversation than a traditional interview. There are moments that are emotional, moments that are reflective, and moments that are genuinely funny. That balance makes the episode relatable whether you’re a sports fan, entrepreneur, creative, recovering addict, or someone simply trying to figure life out after making mistakes.For fans of long-form podcast conversations, sports media, mental health discussions, addiction recovery stories, and personal growth interviews, this episode delivers a rare level of honesty that’s hard to fake. Craig Carton shows listeners that redemption is not about pretending the past never happened. It’s about learning from it, owning it, and finding a way to move forward without hiding from the truth.If this episode connected with you, make sure to subscribe to I’m an Artist, Not a Salesman on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube for more conversations with entrepreneurs, artists, athletes, creators, and personalities who share the real stories behind their success, failures, and life experiences.

May 5, 20261 hr 34 min

Balancing Art, Love, and Mental Strain Without Losing Yourself as a Working Creative

In this episode of I’m an Artist, Not a Salesman, Luis Guzman sits down with Darian Maldonado for a raw, emotional conversation about what it really takes to hold onto your passion when life starts pressing in from all sides. This isn’t one of those polished “success story” episodes. It leans into the messy middle—the part where stress, doubt, relationships, and creative pressure all collide at once.From the jump, you can feel the weight of the conversation. Darian opens up about the internal tug-of-war that comes with chasing something meaningful while trying to stay grounded. There’s a strong thread throughout the episode around emotional dependency, creative identity, and the fear of losing the one thing that keeps you going. When your art is tied closely to your sense of self, what happens when everything else starts to feel unstable?Luis does what he does best here—he keeps it honest. Instead of trying to “fix” the struggle, he lets it breathe. The conversation circles around the idea that passion isn’t always loud or inspiring. Sometimes it’s quiet, heavy, and hard to carry. And still, you keep going.Darian speaks on the reality of being in your own head, dealing with stress, and trying to show up creatively when your mental state isn’t cooperating. There’s a vulnerability in how he describes needing connection while also trying to stand on his own. That tension—between independence and emotional reliance—is something a lot of artists deal with but don’t always talk about openly.What makes this episode hit is how relatable it feels. There’s no pretending here. Just two creatives unpacking what it means to keep showing up when things feel uncertain, overwhelming, or even a little broken.Some of the key ideas explored in this episode include:The connection between mental health and creative outputHow relationships can both support and complicate your artistic journeyThe pressure of needing your passion to “work” while still loving itWhat it feels like to lose composure and try to rebuild it againWhy not quitting sometimes looks like simply getting through the dayThere’s also a deeper layer here about identity. When you pour so much of yourself into your art, it stops being just something you do—it becomes who you are. That can be powerful, but it can also make every setback feel personal. This episode doesn’t shy away from that reality.If you’ve ever felt stuck between loving your craft and feeling crushed by it at the same time, this conversation will land. It’s a reminder that being an artist isn’t just about output—it’s about endurance, self-awareness, and learning how to sit with discomfort without letting it take you out of the game.As always, I’m an Artist, Not a Salesman is about keeping it real for creatives who are figuring things out as they go. No perfect answers, just honest conversations that help you feel a little less alone in the process.If this episode resonated with you, make sure to follow the podcast, leave a review, and share it with another artist who might need to hear it. You can connect with Luis Guzman and stay updated on future episodes through the podcast’s social platforms. Keep creating, keep questioning, and keep showing up.

April 28, 20261 hr 24 min

From Broke to Booked: TobiasEats on Food Reviews, Culture, and Building a Real Brand

In this episode of I’m an Artist, Not a Salesman, host Luis Guzman sits down with Herbert “TobiasEats” Tobias, a rising Latino entrepreneur who turned tough circumstances into a thriving brand rooted in food, culture, and community. What starts as a conversation about food content quickly opens into a deeper look at identity, hustle, and building something real without losing yourself in the process.Tobias breaks down how he went from struggling to afford meals to creating content just to fill his fridge, to now running Yummy Media Group and working with major brands, restaurants, and organizations across New Jersey. His story isn’t polished or sugarcoated. It’s about long nights, missed opportunities, learning curves, and figuring things out in real time. The episode highlights how resourcefulness and consistency can open doors that talent alone can’t.There’s a strong focus on restaurant marketing and content creation, but what makes this conversation hit is the intention behind it. Tobias doesn’t just show food. He highlights the people behind it. From small business owners to chefs grinding 12-hour days, his approach is rooted in service over ego. That mindset is what helped him stand out in a crowded social media space, especially during a time when food content was just starting to take off.Luis and Tobias also get into the realities of entrepreneurship and creative work. They talk about the pressure to monetize everything, the danger of chasing attention, and the importance of building real relationships instead of transactional ones. There’s a raw honesty here about getting distracted by fast money, losing focus, and having to reset. Tobias shares how staying grounded, leaning on his team, and reconnecting with purpose helped him level up both personally and professionally.Music, culture, and travel also play a big role in Tobias’ journey. He opens up about using music as therapy, shooting videos in El Salvador and Puerto Rico, and how reconnecting with his roots helped shape his creative voice. It’s not just about business growth, it’s about personal evolution and finding clarity when things feel off.Some key moments and takeaways from the episode include:How TobiasEats started as a survival move and turned into a full-scale media brandWhy showcasing others can be more powerful than promoting yourselfThe role of team, loyalty, and trust in long-term successLessons from sales that translate directly into content and brandingThe truth about burnout, distractions, and staying disciplinedWhy not all money is worth taking, and how to protect your brandThis episode is a real look at what it means to build something from nothing while staying connected to your roots. If you’re a creative trying to figure out how to grow without selling out, or a small business owner looking to understand how content can actually drive results, this conversation delivers both perspective and practical insight.To stay connected with I’m an Artist, Not a Salesman, follow the podcast on social platforms, subscribe for weekly episodes, and share this with someone building their own path. For updates, clips, and behind-the-scenes content, tap in with Luis Guzman and join the conversation around art, business, and what it really takes to make it work.

April 21, 20261 hr 22 min

Inside Labebe Prime: Tony Pierre on Why Details Matter, Going to War and Creating Luxury Experiences

In this episode of I’m an Artist, Not a Salesman, host Luis Guzman sits down with returning guest Tony Pierre, the force behind Labebe Prime, for a deep conversation about what it really takes to build a brand that people believe in. This is not just a conversation about food, restaurants, or going viral. It is about vision, discipline, criticism, reinvention, and the mindset required to create something people feel.Tony shares how he transformed a family business into one of New Jersey’s most talked-about dining destinations through relentless standards, creative risk-taking, and an obsession with details. From viral content and signature tableside experiences to handling pressure during peak service, Tony breaks down how he approaches business like going to war, why hospitality is emotional, and why excellence lives in the small things most people ignore.The conversation digs into the growth of Labebe Prime, the evolution of Tony as both a businessman and creative, and how he turned criticism into fuel. Luis and Tony talk openly about social media, restaurant marketing, personal branding, building loyal customers, and why content creation is no longer optional for entrepreneurs. If you’ve ever struggled with how to stand out in a crowded market, this episode delivers real perspective.There is also a powerful thread around self-reflection and purpose. Tony opens up about mistakes, maturity, family influence, faith, and how finding purpose changed the way he channels ambition. His perspective on leadership, accountability, and creating a team culture built on buy-in is one of the strongest parts of this conversation.The episode also explores how unexpected moments helped elevate the brand, including organic support from Joe Budden, catering connections tied to the New York Yankees, and how authentic word-of-mouth can do more than paid promotion ever could. But Tony makes one thing clear: attention only matters if the product backs it up.Topics covered in this episode include:Building Labebe Prime from family roots into a luxury dining brandTurning online criticism into marketing opportunitiesHospitality, leadership, and why details create unforgettable experiencesRestaurant entrepreneurship, content strategy, and viral brand growthFaith, self-awareness, and finding purpose beyond chasing moneyServing high-profile guests while staying grounded in core valuesWhy complacency kills creativity and how to keep evolving as a business ownerThis episode will resonate with artists, entrepreneurs, restaurant owners, creatives, and anyone building something from the ground up. Whether you are trying to grow a business, strengthen your brand, improve customer experience, or learn how passion translates into profit, there is something here for you.What makes this conversation hit harder is the chemistry between Luis and Tony. This feels less like an interview and more like listening in on two creatives unpack what it costs to pursue greatness without losing yourself. There is humor, honesty, storytelling, and practical insight all the way through.If you’ve been thinking about entrepreneurship only in terms of money, this episode challenges that. If you’ve been wrestling with criticism, burnout, or trying to figure out how to make your work stand out, this conversation offers another way to look at it. The recurring message is simple: build with intention, stay teachable, honor the details, and let the work speak.If this episode connected with you, make sure to follow I’m an Artist, Not a Salesman on your favorite podcast platform and leave a rating or review. Reviews help more creatives and entrepreneurs discover the show.Connect with Luis Guzman and the podcast for behind-the-scenes content, episode clips, and updates on upcoming guests. Share this episode with a friend, tag the podcast on social, and let us know what part of the conversation hit home for you.

April 14, 20261 hr 27 min

Building Worlds from Real Life: Jenn Graziano on Mob Wives, Theater, and Creative Control

In this episode of I’m an Artist, Not a Salesman, host Luis Guzman sits down with Jenn Graziano, the powerhouse behind Mob Wives, alongside cast members Sean Amato and Sydney Basco, to talk about what it really takes to build something from nothing and keep evolving as a creative. This conversation goes beyond credits and resumes. It’s about ownership, risk, and the constant push to create work that actually means something.Jenn breaks down her transition from television into immersive theater with her new project Married by the Mob, showing how she’s taking the DNA of a hit franchise and reworking it into a live, interactive experience. Instead of waiting for networks to say yes, she’s building her own lane and bringing fans directly into the story. It’s a real look at how creatives can adapt, pivot, and stay relevant without losing control of their voice.The episode also dives into the mindset behind successful creatives. From betting on yourself when nobody else will, to using doubt as fuel, Jenn shares stories that highlight how resilience and resourcefulness play a bigger role than talent alone. Sean and Sydney add their perspective as working actors navigating theater, comedy, and film, giving insight into what it means to stay curious and keep growing in an unpredictable industry.There’s a strong thread throughout the episode about creative freedom versus business reality. Whether it’s building intellectual property, experimenting with new formats, or figuring out how to monetize your art without compromising it, this conversation hits the balance that so many artists struggle with. It’s honest, sometimes chaotic, and packed with moments that feel like you’re sitting in the room with them.Key topics covered in this episode include:Building and owning your IP instead of waiting on gatekeepersTurning a legacy brand like Mob Wives into a new creative formatThe rise of immersive theater and real-life audience experiencesStaying creatively fulfilled while pursuing financial successUsing rejection, doubt, and pressure as fuel to push forwardWhat stands out most is how grounded the conversation is. There’s no sugarcoating the grind. Jenn talks openly about the pressure to keep leveling up, the fear that comes with new ventures, and the reality that success doesn’t slow the hustle down. If anything, it raises the bar. Sean and Sydney reinforce that energy with their own journeys, showing how passion, curiosity, and a willingness to try things outside your comfort zone can open unexpected doors.This episode is for artists who want more than just inspiration. It’s for those trying to figure out how to build something real, sustain it, and keep evolving without burning out or selling out. Whether you’re a filmmaker, actor, designer, or entrepreneur, there’s something here that will hit.If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to follow I’m an Artist, Not a Salesman on your favorite platform, leave a review, and share it with someone who’s building their own path. You can also connect with Luis Guzman and stay updated on future episodes, guest announcements, and behind-the-scenes content by engaging with the podcast online.

April 7, 20261 hr 42 min

Faith, Hustle, and Growth: David "Castro" Delgado on Music, Mistakes, and Finding Real Purpose

In this episode of I’m an Artist, Not a Salesman, host Luis Guzman sits down with David Castro Delgado, a multi-talented creative whose journey moves through music, entrepreneurship, faith, and personal growth. From his early days in Brooklyn surrounded by hip hop culture to building ventures in nightlife, fashion, and podcasting, David shares what it really looks like to chase success without losing yourself in the process.The conversation goes way deeper than surface-level wins. David Castro Delgado opens up about being a flawed, evolving person, someone who refuses to act like he’s “arrived.” That honesty sets the tone for a real discussion about growth, ego, and the constant tension between ambition and humility. If you’ve ever felt like you’re still figuring it out while trying to build something meaningful, this one will hit home.Faith plays a major role throughout the episode, but not in a preachy way. Instead, it’s explored as a grounding force that helps navigate life, business, and relationships. Luis Guzman and David get into the idea of leaning on God while still pursuing success, challenging the outdated belief that being spiritual means you have to struggle or stay small. They talk openly about money, success, and why wanting more doesn’t automatically make you less authentic.There’s also a raw look at past mistakes and hard lessons. David shares how chasing the wrong version of success led him down paths that forced him to reevaluate everything. From street influences to internal battles with ego and identity, this episode shows how growth often comes from uncomfortable truths. It’s not about perfection, it’s about being honest enough to adjust and move forward.The episode also taps into hip hop culture and how it shaped both of their identities. From early influences to the evolution of the industry, they break down how music became more than entertainment. It became a mirror, a guide, and sometimes even a substitute for missing role models. That cultural connection adds another layer to the conversation, especially for creatives trying to find their voice.Here are a few key takeaways from this episode:Why growth requires humility and letting go of the idea that you have everything figured outHow faith and ambition can coexist without canceling each other outThe danger of chasing success “by any means” and what it really costsHow hip hop culture shaped identity, creativity, and confidenceWhy self-awareness is one of the most important tools for any creativeWhat makes this episode stand out is how real it feels. There’s no pretending, no polished version of success. Just two creatives having an honest conversation about life, mistakes, faith, and what it takes to keep going. David Castro Delgado brings perspective from years of experience, while Luis Guzman keeps the conversation grounded and relatable.If you’re an artist, entrepreneur, or someone trying to build a life with purpose, this episode gives you something to think about. It’s a reminder that success isn’t just about what you build, but who you become while building it.Make sure to follow I’m an Artist, Not a Salesman on your favorite podcast platform, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who needs it. You can connect with Luis Guzman and stay updated on new episodes through social media and the official podcast channels.

March 31, 20261 hr 39 min

Stop Playing Small: How to Build Confidence, Embrace Discomfort, and Go All In on Your Life

In this episode of I’m an Artist, Not a Salesman, host Luis Guzman sits down with Julee Gracey, a business coach, author of Highly Confident, and someone who’s lived just about every version of the hustle. From modeling in Milan to dominating real estate and eventually walking away from commission-driven success, Julee shares what it really takes to build a life rooted in purpose, confidence, and intention.This conversation goes way deeper than surface-level motivation. It’s about the uncomfortable truth that most people avoid: if you want real growth, you’re going to have to face yourself. Julee breaks down how self-doubt, fear, and lack of discipline quietly sabotage progress, and why so many people stay stuck chasing what feels familiar instead of what actually moves them forward. The shift from chasing money to building meaning didn’t come easy, but it’s what changed everything for her.Luis and Julee also get real about the difference between talking about success and actually doing the work. They dig into the idea that confidence isn’t something you’re born with, it’s something you build through repetition, failure, and showing up when you don’t feel like it. There’s a strong focus on personal accountability, calling out the mindset of entitlement, and replacing it with ownership and action.A major theme throughout the episode is being comfortable with discomfort. Whether it’s starting a business, putting yourself out there, or learning a new skill, the message is clear: you’re going to suck before you get good, and that’s part of the process. Julee shares how embracing that phase is what separates people who grow from those who quit early.You’ll also hear powerful insights on sales, networking, and human connection. From ditching traditional business cards to building real relationships, this episode flips the script on what it means to connect in a world driven by attention and algorithms. The focus stays grounded in authenticity, showing up as yourself, and creating genuine value for others.Key takeaways from this episode include:Why confidence is built through action, not waiting until you feel readyHow fear and familiarity keep you stuck in cycles that don’t serve youThe importance of mentorship and coaching to accelerate growthWhy discipline beats motivation every single timeHow to approach networking and sales in a more human, effective wayThe truth about sacrifice, boundaries, and protecting what matters mostThis episode is a must-listen for creatives, entrepreneurs, and anyone trying to figure out how to grow without losing themselves in the process. It’s honest, direct, and packed with real-world perspective that cuts through the noise.If this conversation hit home, make sure to follow I’m an Artist, Not a Salesman on your favorite podcast platform, leave a review, and share the episode with someone who needs it. You can connect with Luis Guzman on social media for more behind-the-scenes content, clips, and updates on upcoming guests. Stay tapped in, keep creating, and remember, you don’t have to sell out to build something real.