I’m An Artist, Not A Salesman Podcast

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, real, and refreshingly vulnerable. John opens up about what's changed since his first time on the show three years ago—personally, professionally, and spiritually. From overcoming addiction and staying clean for over two decades, to obsessively growing the Paramount brand into a community-first fitness hub, John brings every shade of the journey to the mic.He and Luis talk about the messy, beautiful dance of self-awareness, what it means to lead with both creativity and imperfection, and why being disciplined doesn't mean having every aspect of your life on lock. They dive into the truth behind partnerships—John's with his business partner Justin, who balances John's creative chaos with grounded leadership—and how staying in your lane and trusting your team might be the most underrated business strategy there is.Throughout the episode, you'll hear John's unfiltered reflections on:How obsession (the healthy kind... mostly) fuels creative outputWhy selfishness is part of the human condition—and how to fight itThe trap of chasing comfort vs. building disciplineThe power of community—inside and outside the gymWhat real mentorship looks like (hint: it's not sugarcoated)The myth of overnight success in business and personal growthWhy Paramount Gym is much more than squat racks and Instagram reelsAnd how grief—the recent loss of his dog, Marlo—sparked deeper gratitude and clarityOh, and yes—they get into the fun stuff too: favorite pancakes, gym pet peeves, back problems, merch design, and why creatives are basically just over-caffeinated ping pong balls with a dream.This episode isn't just a check-in—it's a masterclass on showing up for your passion, your people, and yourself... even when it's hard, especially when it's hard.If you've ever felt like you're doing everything you can but still not doing enough, this one's for you. If you've ever wondered how to build something from scratch, keep it alive, and still sleep at night (or try to), this one's for you. And if you just want to hear two dudes keep it all the way honest about life, business, addiction, purpose, and pancakes—yeah, this one's definitely for you.Stream it, share it, save it, and send it to that friend who's trying to figure it all out.Because we all are.

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 instabilityA difficult and abusive relationship with his fatherCreating the “Dave Disci” persona as a personal survival tool and artistic identityThroughout the episode, Dave opens up about the emotional weight of being a creator. From long hours juggling a corporate job while editing videos late into the night, to finally taking the leap into full-time content creation—only to make just $500 in his first month—Dave walks us through the highs and lows of betting on yourself.But the conversation doesn't stop at success and hustle. Luis and Dave dig into:The hidden toll of imposter syndromeThe real-life challenges of therapy and healing childhood traumaComing out, and the painful fallout with familyFinding safety and identity through content, fashion, and communityTheir mutual experiences growing up in emotionally volatile households create one of the most vulnerable moments in the series. This is not just about fame—it's about how people build a life, a career, and a sense of self after being told to stay small.You'll also learn:How Dave uses his YouTube channel and TikTok presence to discuss trending pop culture and hidden storiesWhat it really takes to get into red carpet events and navigate the publicist worldWhy he invests in properties and supports his family financially—even while still chasing artistic dreamsHow he survived a major health scare without insurance and found clarity in chaosDave opens up about being in therapy for years, his love for psychology, and how mental health influences everything from his relationships to how he engages with fans online. He shares how his supportive partner and his partner's family have become an anchor while his relationship with his own family remains complicated and unresolved.Looking ahead, Dave shares his excitement for upcoming projects:Acting auditions and voiceover workProducing an animated seriesA trivia card game inspired by his commentary videosThis episode is filled with real talk, raw truth, and meaningful insight for anyone trying to build a creative life while unpacking the past. Whether you're grinding on YouTube, struggling to stay consistent with your art, or just dealing with family stuff while trying to keep your peace—this conversation is for you.

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 helps people visualize their end goal first and then reverse engineer the steps to get there. But he's quick to say most people don't actually want to do the work. They want the shortcut. They want the result without the process. He doesn't sugarcoat it. He's seen it too many times—people with all the talk and none of the action.We get into the rise and collapse of his earlier ventures, including the one that made headlines: Shreds. He opens up about losing it all—money, reputation, friendships—and how walking away wasn't just a business move. It was a moral choice. After discovering people close to him were getting paid before the employees and vendors, he had to step out. But leaving meant giving up everything he helped build. That decision haunted him for years.This episode pulls no punches. We talk about betrayal, misplaced loyalty, and how easy it is to misread people when your gut's not tuned in. Ankur admits he missed the signs. He questions whether he betrayed people too—not out of malice, but by promising more than he could deliver when he was young, hungry, and blinded by the rush of success.We explore how rock bottom changed him. After years of living large, Ankur found himself back at his parents' house, broke, depressed, and questioning his worth. No sponsors, no co-signs, no golden parachute. Just Uber driving, $25 flyer gigs, and a deep need to find his footing again. What followed was three years in Pittsburgh, where he rebuilt quietly. No flash. No ego. Just work.He talks about losing confidence, dealing with physical symptoms of stress, and eventually finding his strength again—mentally, emotionally, and financially. It's not a redemption montage. It's a slow, grinding climb. But when his beard grew back (literally), he knew something inside had shifted. He finally loved himself again.Luis and Ankur go deep on loyalty, adult friendships, and why Ankur keeps his circle small. He shares how trauma shaped the way he gives and receives love, and why a simple act—like someone bringing him a coffee—can mean more than words ever could. They talk about chasing accomplishment vs. chasing validation, and how sometimes, you just need to hear “you were right” to get that fire back.They also unpack the origin story of Youngry—a name Ankur held onto for 20 years, waiting for the right moment. That moment is now. He explains how he brought in trusted partners to build something bigger than himself. The agency isn't just about marketing—it's about creating opportunities for creators and entrepreneurs who want to work smart, build loud, and do it without selling out.This is more than a story about business. It's about falling apart and coming back stronger. It's about the identity shifts we all go through and what it takes to truly reinvent yourself when nobody's watching. Ankur's story will hit home for anyone who's ever been humbled by life and had to start over.If you've ever felt like giving up, or like your past disqualified you from your future, you need to hear this one. Not because it's pretty—but because it's real.

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 way, and saved every penny for years. From working alongside his brother to running a nonprofit clinic, to finally firing up the grill at Wake & Steak, Christo's journey is all heart and hustle.This episode digs into what makes Wake & Steak different—tight hours, a small menu, and insane attention to detail. It's a full-on rebellion against fast-food shortcuts, built on pride and precision. Christo's not trying to be everything to everyone—he's just trying to do things right.We talk about launching a small business without big money or marketing teams, the nerves of opening day, and how social media unexpectedly helped Wake & Steak explode. Christo shares his philosophy on treating every customer like family, the power of quality over quantity, and why showing up with consistency is everything.Luis and Christo also chop it up about what it means to be an artist in the business world. For Christo, his food is his art—and not everyone's going to get it. That's fine by him. He doesn't do pizza steaks. He won't cut corners to please a crowd. His story is a reminder that real success comes from staying true to your vision, even when it's scary.We also get into the grind: working multiple jobs, saving with intention, pushing through setbacks (including the pandemic), and never quitting—even when it felt like no one was watching. Christo drops his “tree analogy” for growth—how you grow as tall as you're meant to grow, and you weather every storm that comes your way. It's gold.If you're a food entrepreneur, creative, or just someone stuck at the starting line of your dream, this episode is a wake-up call. It's a gut-level look at the risks, sacrifices, and joy that come from betting on yourself. It's also a celebration of what happens when you pick passion over popularity and integrity over shortcuts.Christo's Wake & Steak is at 1290 Broad Street in Bloomfield, NJ. They're open 7AM to 3PM—or until they sell out (which they often do). The menu is simple but deadly: the OG cheesesteak with Cheese Whiz, the “new school” with Cooper Sharp, and the North Shore beef that disappears almost instantly. Everything's made fresh, by hand, and with serious care.If you've ever doubted food can be art, Christo's about to prove you wrong. And if you've ever questioned whether your dream is worth the risk—this one's for you.Make sure to subscribe to the I'm an Artist, Not a Salesman Podcast for more real talk with artists, creatives, and entrepreneurs who are building lives they believe in—without selling out. New episodes every week on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and wherever you listen.If this episode fired you up, leave a comment, share it with someone who needs the boost, and hit that subscribe button.Follow Christo's Wake & Steak on Instagram for food shots, behind-the-scenes chaos, and sell-out alerts. Pro tip: show up early.Because yeah—passion, hustle, and a little bit of crazy still make the best stories.

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 creatives who've been overlooked, underestimated, or straight-up ignored.Ludwig's story hits hard: from shooting in packed gyms at midnight, to getting flown across the country to capture transformation stories, to redefining what “branding” even means in today's world. You'll hear what it's like to leave corporate security behind and build something with real impact and real soul.Whether you're a photographer, designer, podcaster, or just trying to figure out how to turn your creativity into something that pays the bills without killing your spirit, this one's for you.What We Get Into:Why Ludwig walked away from a 17-year corporate careerHow photographing his daughter led to a six-figure creative pathLessons from the Shreds era and the fitness photography boomThe difference between working for a brand vs. creating with oneMaking art inside restrictions (and knowing when to walk away)What it takes to be a Chief Brand Officer in a creative agencyWhy artists need to stop doubting themselves and start owning roomsHow Youngry and FlexWork are giving creatives the space to winImposter syndrome, fatherhood, and legacy-buildingMemorable Lines:"I'm not a photographer. I'm an artist with a camera.""The best shoots happen when clients get out of the way and let you be creative.""You're paying me because I'm the guy—so why am I the one doubting that?""This isn't about selling out. It's about showing up—for yourself and your art."Follow Ludwig Araujo:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ludwigaraujoTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ludwigaraujoLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ludwigaraujoListen now on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, and Spotify.Subscribe and follow the podcast on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/imanartistnotasalesmanIf this episode hit you in the feels, share it, tag us, and leave a review—it helps more artists like you find their tribe.

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, pizza with Robin Williams, emotional gut punches, and a few too many jokes about skinny jeans and U-Haul sweatpants.Vinnie takes us way back — like back-to-the-80s back — when he was juggling a failing marriage, a flower shop, a construction company, and the wild idea to jump on a comedy stage with zero prep. What happened next? He killed… then bombed… then got blackballed… then built a full-blown comedy empire from a basement in Jersey.Oh, and he once got kicked off stage for Robin Williams. And Robin apologized to him. (Yeah. That part.)We talk:

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 value of hard work, discipline, and taking risks. That's exactly what Fly Three became: a way to instill those lessons through hands-on experience.From creating custom socks for local football teams to building a full activewear line, Michael shares how they turned a simple idea into a growing brand. He opens up about the challenges of balancing his finance career, raising his sons, and growing Fly Three. Whether it's convincing his boys to help load the truck for a pop-up shop or teaching them to handle rejection in sales, Michael makes it clear that success comes from consistency and effort — even when you don't feel like it.Beyond business, Michael gets personal about the struggles he's faced along the way. He talks about overcoming challenges as a single dad, dealing with the sudden loss of his mother, and confronting his past struggles with alcohol. His honesty offers powerful insight for anyone going through tough times, showing that growth is possible when you commit to change.Michael also shares how his finance background helped him manage the business side of Fly Three, but admits that learning retail and fashion was a whole new challenge. Interestingly, while they originally targeted teenage boys and young men, they discovered their biggest customer base was actually suburban women — which led to expanding their product line to better serve that audience.As Fly Three continues to grow, Michael is focused on building more than just a business — he's building a community. Their slogan, “Welcome to the Family,” reflects his commitment to creating a brand that's positive, encouraging, and supportive.Whether you're an artist trying to build your brand, a parent navigating the challenges of raising kids, or an entrepreneur looking for motivation, this episode is packed with valuable insights and inspiration.Check out Fly Three Activewear online at flythreeonline.com.Follow them on Instagram for updates, new product drops, and behind-the-scenes content: @flythree_activewear.Listeners who DM Fly Three with the word "Podcast" can grab a special discount code as a thank you for tuning in!Where to Learn More About Michael Griz and Fly Three

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!

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.

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!

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 lessons in leadership, perseverance, and passion. Chef Nino shares his story of transforming Grano into a hub for community, creativity, and unforgettable meals. Along the way, he dishes on the realities of running a restaurant, the power of adaptability, and the art of building connections through food. Don't miss this inspiring conversation—subscribe now and be sure to visit Grano Pizzeria to experience the magic for yourself.

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 creating stunning backyard experiences translates into his broader vision for success. From the challenges of managing a business to the thrill of delivering exceptional results, this episode is packed with advice and stories for creatives and entrepreneurs looking to elevate their craft. Tune in to discover how Steve balances artistry with business acumen and why his motto is all about pushing boundaries and delivering excellence.

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 while staying true to his craft. Listen in as he discusses the lessons he's learned, the challenges of scaling his business, and the importance of creating memorable experiences for his audience—whether they're children at a birthday party or celebrities at exclusive events. Don't miss Josh's mind-blowing magic trick at the end!

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 decades in the fast-paced restaurant industry. This is a story of passion, discipline, and creating unforgettable moments through food.

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 beer, and more. Chaz shares stories of working with icons like Nas and Method Man, how he balances his family and career, and his legacy-building children's book co-authored with his daughter. This conversation offers a glimpse into Chaz's heart, his work ethic, and how he's shaped a unique space in the world of barbering and beyond.

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 conversation dives deep into resilience, passion, and the artistic process, offering valuable insights on entrepreneurship and the creative mindset. Danilo's unwavering commitment to his craft has led him to incredible projects for major clients like the WWE, Ivanka Trump, and luxury resorts. With tales of sacrifice, hard work, and the importance of “swinging the axe,” this episode is a must-listen for anyone who dreams of turning their art into a career. Whether you're an artist, an entrepreneur, or someone in need of a dose of motivation, Danilo's story will inspire you to push forward and keep swinging. Don't miss this powerful episode, and remember to subscribe for more inspiring interviews!

Jamai, globally recognized for his appearance on Season 14 of "The Voice", returns to our show. On this episode he talks about his new documentary, his music career, and the murder of his mother.

On this episode Luis Guzman interviews pizza critic, entrepreneur & influencer  @thepizzahulk Instagram: @ImanArtistNotaSalesmanYoutube: @ImanArtistNotaSalesman

On this episode I interview Tony Hage, entrepreneur and owner of La Bebe restaurant in North Brunswick, New Jersey. Tony talks about his humble beginnings and his philosophy on business & service.Instagram: @ImanArtistNotaSalesmanYoutube: @ImanArtistNotaSalesman

This episode highlights Joe's journey as an actor, parent, husband and his relentless passion for baking. A true Artist and an Entrepreneur; This is his story. 

In this episode Jose discusses his multicultural influence growing up in Queens Ny, the defining life lessons instilled in him from his parents and how he parlayed his love for Dj'ing into an events business that services NJ and the Tri- state area.

In this episode, Al Santillo discusses his third generational pizza business, sticking to his formula and how Dave Portnoy's pizza review catapulted his recipe to the masses. 

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!

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

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.

On this episode Luis Guzman sits down with owner & entrepreneur, Julian Valencia, on location at one of many of his successful businesses. They discuss what it takes to be a successful business person, the importance of a great team, the power of believing in yourself,  education and much more!

On this episode, Luis Guzman sits down with with DJ, Producer, Club & restuarnt owner, real estate investor, Eddy G. Eddy talks about his humble beginnings, from selling empanadas on the corner in Queens, NY, to establishing and growing multi million dollar businesses around the Tri State. 

Luis Guzman sits down with singer, songwriter, musician & business owner Jamai. They speak about Jamai's experience being a contestant on the hit show "The Voice", his struggles throughout his journey and his new album "23". 

In this episode Luis speaks to owners of LFG Auto about their struggles, ups & downs, and their rise, creating a successful business. 

In this episode Luis Guzman sits down with Scott Lasher to talk about his Nutrition business, his talent for marketing and branding and how he overcame addiction. A true story of Grit filled with gratitude and hustle. 

Luis sits down with John Ramsay & Justin Caruso to discuss starting and operating their business, Paramount Gym, and the struggles that came with it. 

Luis sits down with DJ Drewski  for a discussion on making your own path in the music industry, life outside of the grind, as well as Drewski's controversial comments on the state of drill music. 

Luis sits down with entrepreneur David Zuniga to discuss the hardships of growing up in Elizabeth, NJ; family struggles, hitting rock bottom, and how to triumph through it all. 

Luis Guzman sits down with Peter Boutros to discuss Real Estate, faith and the art of overcoming adversity! 

Luis sits down Dollarsign Malc to talk about personal struggle and life in the music industry. 

Luis sits down with heavyweight boxer and advocate Gerry Cooney to speak on hardships in abuse, addiction, and self-acceptance; and how he persevered through it all.