In this inspiring and high-energy episode of I'm an Artist, Not a Salesman, host Luis Guzman welcomes back a returning guest whose journey has captured listeners’ hearts. Juan “Fat Juan” Alzate, the mastermind behind FJ Films, is more than just a talented videographer—he’s a storyteller who turns life’s most meaningful moments into lasting memories. From sweet sixteens to weddings, nightlife events to brand promotions, Juan has built a reputation for delivering cinematic excellence that resonate...
Aug 12, 2025•1 hr 23 min•Season 2Ep. 23
In this episode of I'm an Artist, Not a Salesman , Luis sits down with someone who knows what it feels like to rise fast, fall hard, and come back stronger. Former WWE wrestler, Tough Enough season 1 winner, and current YouTube powerhouse Maven Huffman joins the pod for a raw, funny, and deeply honest conversation about fame, loss, hustle, and personal reinvention. You might remember Maven for one of the most iconic moments in WWE history—eliminating The Undertaker from the 2002 Royal Rumble. Th...
Aug 01, 2025•1 hr 6 min
Some people talk about discipline. *Alison Douglas lives it.*In this raw and unfiltered episode of *I'm an Artist, Not a Salesman*, Luis sits down with CrossFit Games athlete and founder of *Nutrition Kitchen*, *Alison Douglas*—a certified force of nature who went from getting fired from her 9–5 to becoming one of the top 30 fittest women in the world… all while running a meal prep company that's redefining what "healthy" actually tastes like.Allison doesn't just lift weights—she lifts people, b...
Jul 22, 2025•1 hr 24 min•Season 2Ep. 21
What does it take to go from hustling on the streets of Elizabeth, NJ to sitting courtside at NBA games while running a successful sports betting business? Two words: discipline and belief. In this episode of I’m an Artist, Not a Salesman , host Luis Guzman sits down with Julian Saavedra—founder of The Parlay Plug—for an unfiltered, emotional, and wildly inspiring look at how he turned his life around and built a business from the ground up. Julian opens up about dropping out of high school in h...
Jul 08, 2025•1 hr 6 min•Season 1Ep. 42
What do you get when you cross a pro soccer player, a marketing strategist, a drone-operating fugitive hunter, and a guy who’s helped move hundreds of millions in ad revenue — all before 30? You get Cameron Saunders . And no, we didn’t make him up. In this episode of I’m an Artist, Not a Salesman , Luis sits down with Cameron Saunders — the 26-year-old Chief Revenue Officer at Youngry, former pro athlete, and real-life James Bond-in-training. From European soccer fields to UFC campaigns, fugitiv...
Jun 24, 2025•1 hr 38 min•Season 1Ep. 41
Welcome back to I'm an Artist, Not a Salesman, where creativity meets real life, and hustle gets a human face. In this milestone 40th episode, host Luis Guzman reconnects with a returning guest who’s not just part of the IAANAS origin story—he’s been riding shotgun since the mustard-seed days of the show: John Ramsay , co-founder of Paramount Gym in Matawan, New Jersey. This ain’t your typical “gym bro” conversation. It’s not a protein-shake-infused monologue about deadlifts and macros. It’s raw...
Jun 10, 2025•1 hr 39 min•Season 1Ep. 40
In this episode of I'm an Artist, Not a Salesman , Luis Guzman sits down with viral content creator, actor, and fashion-forward media personality Dave Disci . What starts as a discussion about digital content quickly turns into an honest, deep-dive conversation about trauma, identity, burnout, creativity, and purpose . Dave shares his powerful origin story —growing up in poverty in New York City as the child of immigrants from Hong Kong. He discusses: Periods of homelessness and instability A di...
May 27, 2025•1 hr 25 min•Season 1Ep. 39
In this episode of I'm an Artist, Not a Salesman , Luis Guzman sits down with creative strategist and marketing rebel Ankur Garg, the CEO of Youngry and founder of Flex Work Studios, for one of the most brutally honest conversations we've had on this show. If you’re expecting a polished tale of success, this ain’t it. This is a real one—messy, inspiring, and filled with the kind of truth most people are too afraid to say out loud. Ankur walks us through his “Z to A” philosophy—a method where he ...
May 13, 2025•1 hr 26 min•Season 1Ep. 38
Welcome to Episode 37 of the I'm an Artist, Not a Salesman Podcast, hosted by Luis Guzman. In this raw and inspiring episode, we sit down with Christo, the owner and creator of Christo’s Wake & Steak in Bloomfield, New Jersey. He’s known for making what many call the best cheesesteaks in the state—but his story runs way deeper than just killer sandwiches. Christo’s path is built on passion, grit, and old-school values. He started working in a pizzeria at thirteen, learned the game the hard w...
Apr 30, 2025•1 hr 11 min•Season 1Ep. 37
What happens when you outgrow the cubicle, outdream the 9-to-5, and finally pick up the camera that’s been calling your name? You get Ludwig Araujo — photographer, brand builder, storyteller, and living proof that you don’t have to sell out to level up. In this episode of I'm an Artist, Not a Salesman , host Luis Guzman chops it up with Ludwig about his journey from working at Verizon to becoming the Chief Brand Officer at Youngry, a disruptive marketing agency that’s creating a home for creativ...
Apr 15, 2025•1 hr 20 min•Season 2Ep. 36
This episode is what happens when raw honesty, side-splitting stories, and years of hustle walk into a podcast studio. In Episode 34 of I'm an Artist, Not a Salesman, host Luis Guzman chops it up with Vinnie Brand — stand-up comic, family man, and the mastermind behind The Stress Factory Comedy Club (aka New Jersey’s most laughter-infused landmark since forever).If you think this is gonna be just another “I started a business and now I’m crushing it” convo — buckle up. This one’s got plot twists...
Apr 01, 2025•1 hr 29 min
In this episode, Luis sits down with Michael Griz, founder of Fly Three Activewear , to discuss the powerful story behind his family-run apparel brand. What started as a creative project during a snowstorm blackout in late 2023 turned into a thriving business — and a meaningful way for Michael to connect with his two sons, Aiden and Khalib. As a single dad, Michael wanted to teach his boys more than just how to make money — he wanted to prepare them for life. He believed in showing them the valu...
Mar 18, 2025•1 hr 2 min•Season 2Ep. 11
Food content creator Joshua Berman joins host Luis Guzman to share how he turned career uncertainty and personal struggles into a thriving New Jersey food review brand. Joshua opens up about mental health, therapy, and rediscovering passion, while spotlighting local small businesses through his popular Josh’s Food and Stuff platform. Discover how letting go, mindfulness, and embracing creativity can lead to purpose and success. Tune in for real talk on food, resilience, and finding your path!...
Mar 04, 2025•1 hr 7 min•Season 2Ep. 10
Master barber and CEO Michael "Checo" Checo shares his journey from growing up in his father's bodega to building Stache, a thriving barbershop brand in Union, NJ with his partner Chaz Hazlitt. He dives into business growth, balancing fatherhood, creating a nonprofit foundation, and giving back through free haircuts for kids. Tune in for insights on leadership, scaling a barbershop, and staying humble while building a legacy.
Feb 18, 2025•1 hr 32 min•Season 2Ep. 9
Discover how Juan Alzate turned his passion for videography into a thriving business while overcoming life’s toughest challenges. From filming nightlife events to working with top artists like Bad Bunny and 50 Cent, Juan’s journey is one of resilience, self-discovery, and success. Tune in for a conversation on creativity, mental health, and what it takes to achieve your dreams. Don’t miss this inspiring episode!
Feb 04, 2025•1 hr 47 min•Season 2Ep. 8
Meet Chef Antonino “Nino” LoCascio, a professionally trained executive chef and the creative force behind Grano Pizzeria and Tavern in Scotch Plains, NJ. In this episode of I’m an Artist, Not a Salesman , host Luis Guzman dives into Chef Nino’s incredible journey—from his beginnings in a family-run bakery to crafting innovative culinary experiences in some of New Jersey’s top establishments. Discover how a spur-of-the-moment leap into culinary school turned into a 25-year career filled with less...
Jan 21, 2025•1 hr•Season 2Ep. 6
In this episode of I’m an Artist, Not a Salesman, host Luis Guzman sits down with Steve Griggs, the founder of Steve Griggs Design, an award-winning landscape design firm. Known for crafting luxurious outdoor spaces, Steve shares his journey from humble beginnings working alongside his father to becoming a celebrated entrepreneur featured in Forbes , Business Insider , and on Bravo . Steve opens up about the lessons learned in sales, his resourceful approach to business, and how his passion for ...
Jan 07, 2025•1 hr•Season 2Ep. 5
In this episode of I’m an Artist, Not a Salesman , host Luis Guzman sits down with Josh Pele, a celebrity magician, mentalist, and the founder of Josh Pele Magic. Josh shares his inspiring journey from discovering magic at 21 during a trip to Milan to performing for some of the biggest names, including Travis Kelce, Mike Tyson, J Balvin, and more. From his philosophy of continual growth and optimization to the art of reading people, Josh explains how he’s mastered the business side of magic whil...
Dec 24, 2024•1 hr 14 min•Season 2Ep. 4
Brian Walter, a Michelin-star executive chef with over 20 years of experience, shares his journey of dedication, artistry, and mastery in the culinary world. In this episode of I’m an Artist, Not a Salesman , host Luis Guzman explores Brian’s rise through the ranks, from his time at prestigious NYC kitchens to shaping the dining experience at 87 Sussex in Jersey City. Learn about Brian’s inspirations, his approach to blending tradition with innovation, and the invaluable lessons he’s gained from...
Dec 10, 2024•1 hr 12 min•Season 2Ep. 3
In this episode of I'm an Artist, Not a Salesman , Luis Guzman sits down with his longtime friend, Chaz Haslett, an influential figure in barbershop culture, master barber, and creator of Stache Barbershop. Chaz opens up about his path from New Jersey kid with big dreams to grooming celebrities and building a brand with global reach. They dive into his journey, from managing artists in the music industry to co-founding a one-of-a-kind community hub with Stash Barbershop, featuring coffee, craft ...
Nov 26, 2024•1 hr 14 min•Season 2Ep. 2
In this episode of I'm An Artist, Not An Salesman , host Luis Guzman sits down with Danilo Bonazza, a globally renowned mosaic artist whose work graces high-profile homes, hotels, and even iconic brands. Danilo shares the incredible journey from his early days in Italy, experimenting with broken glass and sand, to becoming a top-five mosaic artist worldwide. Hear how he overcame financial hardships, skepticism from his own family, and intense career challenges to build his dream. This conversati...
Nov 12, 2024•1 hr 28 min•Season 2Ep. 1
In this episode of I'm an Artist, Not a Salesman , host Luis Guzman welcomes back his friend and artist, Jamai. Known for his soulful voice and storytelling, Jamai shares his journey of confronting personal trauma, expressing vulnerability, and finding peace through music and film. A former The Voice contestant and now a successful singer and entrepreneur, Jamai opens up about his latest project, "23," a deeply personal album and accompanying docu-series inspired by the tragic loss of his mother...
Jul 31, 2024•1 hr 4 min
Join host Luis Guzman as he sits down with Steven Winters, better known as the Pizza Hulk. Steven is a digital creator, influencer, and podcast host of Smashing Slices . Famous for his pizza reviews, love for sneaker culture, and positive outlook on life, Steven shares his journey of balancing family, coaching, and his passion projects. Discover how Steven stays true to himself while growing his brand and why he believes that every slice of life is worth savoring. This episode dives into authent...
Apr 19, 2024•1 hr 12 min
In this inspiring episode, host Luis Guzman sits down with Tony Hage, the mastermind behind La Bibi Prime Steak and Seafood in North Brunswick, NJ. Tony shares his incredible journey from growing up in modest beginnings to becoming a leader in the New Jersey dining scene. Honoring his late grandmother’s legacy, Tony combines family traditions with a modern twist to create a one-of-a-kind dining experience. Discover how faith, passion, and relentless determination drive Tony’s vision, his plans f...
Mar 25, 2024•1 hr 2 min
In this episode of I'm an Artist, Not a Salesman , host Luis Guzman sits down with Joe Rizzuto, the creative genius and owner of Main Street Donuts. With two thriving locations in Belmar and Matawan, Joe shares his journey from corporate America to entrepreneurial success, combining his culinary expertise and business acumen. Hear how Joe’s passion for nostalgic flavors, his dedication to customer service, and his unwavering commitment to his community have built a donut empire that brings smile...
May 19, 2023•49 min•Season 1Ep. 20
Discover how Jose Oliveras, founder of TWK Events, turned his passion for music and community into a thriving bilingual and multicultural wedding entertainment company. From his humble beginnings in Hollis, Queens, to creating unforgettable events across New York and New Jersey, Jose shares the secrets behind his success, the challenges of running a family business, and the importance of staying authentic in a competitive industry. Learn how his faith, family values, and entrepreneurial spirit h...
Apr 14, 2023•1 hr 24 min•Season 1Ep. 19
In this heartfelt episode, Luis Guzman sits down with Al Santillo, the man behind Santillo’s Brick Oven Pizza, a New Jersey institution since 1918. Al shares stories of his family’s immigrant roots, the challenges of running a third-generation business, and the philosophy that drives his passion for crafting traditional pizza. With tales of hard work, faith, and the wisdom passed down from generations, Al offers insights into what it takes to stay true to your craft in a fast-changing world. Whe...
Mar 17, 2023•1 hr 40 min•Season 1Ep. 18
In this episode Nasar depicts his story from how he started in real estate and the defining key best practices that have grown his business into what it is today. A true story of resourcefulness and the will to go get what you deserve!
Feb 17, 2023•1 hr
Luis Guzman sits down with Keith McPherson, who is a WFAN Sports Radio Talkshow host/ Sports Media Personality. Keith talks about how in less than 4 years he went from driving Uber to becoming the new voice of the NY sports media world.Follow on Instagram: @LuisGuzman2444@KeithMcPherson
Jan 06, 2023•1 hr 13 min
Luis Guzman sits down with special guest Bookem, who is not only a proud police officer, but also a Hip-Hop artist! Bookem speaks about his community outreach and how his non profit organization "Bridges" is dedicated to bridging the gap between law enforcement and urban communities.
Nov 18, 2022•1 hr 11 min
