Breaking Into the Spotlight: Your Guide to Success in the Modeling Industry
Release Date: 04/03/2025
ICONIC HOUR
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On today’s episode, we sit down with Janice Rantanen, Director of Lasting Impressions at Candelaria Design Associates and the visionary planner behind the firm’s ICONIC first Candelaria Design Tour France. Janice takes us inside their most recent adventure to Paris, France, sharing insider experiences, cultural highlights, and all the must-dos for anyone planning to travel abroad. Website: candelariadesign.com Instagram: candelariadesign BACK STORY Janice has lived in the Valley since 1982 and joined Candelaria Design as Director of Lasting Impressions early 2019. She ensures the comfort...
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On today’s episode, we sit down with Sarah Kearney, Executive Director of Blue Zones Project Scottsdale, and Todd LaPorte, CEO of HonorHealth, to explore how Scottsdale is taking bold steps toward becoming a longer-living, more connected, and more vibrant community. Website: Instagram: bzpscottsdale BACK STORY With more than 35 years of diverse healthcare experience, Todd LaPorte leads an integrated health system with nine acute-care hospitals, numerous outpatient facilities, a research institute, and various community services impacting social determinants of health and...
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On today’s episode, we sit down for Part II of our conversation with legendary Chef Christopher Gross and hospitality visionary Bill Nassikas as they explore the intersection of cuisine, creativity, and guest experience. From Michelin-level kitchens to world-class resorts, they share stories from decades at the top of the culinary and hospitality industries—along with candid conversations with chefs, winemakers, and entrepreneurs redefining what it means to serve. Insight, humor, and behind-the-scenes wisdom—straight from two masters of their craft. Website: Instagram:...
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On today’s episode, we sit down with legendary Chef Christopher Gross and hospitality visionary Bill Nassikas as they explore the intersection of cuisine, creativity, and guest experience. From Michelin-level kitchens to world-class resorts, they share stories from decades at the top of the culinary and hospitality industries—along with candid conversations with chefs, winemakers, and entrepreneurs redefining what it means to serve. Insight, humor, and behind-the-scenes wisdom—straight from two masters of their craft. Website: Instagram: christophersatwrigley BACK STORY...
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On today’s episode, we sit down with Salvatore Ferragamo Jr. — entrepreneur, hospitality visionary, and member of one of the most ICONIC fashion families in the world — for a rich conversation that blends heritage, hospitality, and the evolving landscape of luxury living. Website: Instagram: salvatore_ferragamo_jr ilborro BACK STORY The Italian Association of Arizona is thrilled to announce its 10th annual Italian Festival at Old Town Scottsdale Waterfront, where attendees can experience Italy in the Valley on Saturday, Oct. 25, from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Sunday, Oct. 26...
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On today’s episode, we sit down with Jesse Katz, the visionary founder and winemaker behind Aperture Cellars—a label that's redefining the future of fine wine through precision, storytelling, and stunning design. From collaborating with A-list celebrities to building one of the most architecturally striking wineries in California, Jesse shares his journey of blending innovation with tradition in an industry steeped in legacy. Website: aperture-cellars.com Instagram: aperturecellars BACK STORY EARLY ADVENTURES to legendary vineyards and wineries around the world with his father,...
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On today’s episode of the podcast, we sit down with Tim McBride, founder of Change Agents of Arizona, to discuss the inspiration behind the movement and the second annual Change Agents of Arizona event celebrating this year’s honorees. This event is an invite-only gathering that recognizes a small, carefully selected class of real estate professionals who lead with generosity, integrity, and purpose. These agents aren’t just successful in business—they use their platform to lift others, lead boldly in their communities, and inspire change far beyond the closing table. ...
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On today’s episode of the podcast, we sit down with Brian Johnson, founder of Senergy360, and Nate Gossage, founder of Living Stone Builders, to explore how design, construction, and wellness intersect in the creation of healthy homes. Website: senergy360.com buildlivingstone.com Instagram: livingstonebuilders senergy360 BACK STORY Brian Johnson, founder of Senergy360, is a leader at the intersection of high performance, environmental wellness, and innovative home construction. With over 22 years in the building industry and a personal background as an elite athlete, Brian...
info_outlineMaking It Into The Modeling Industry | Owner of FORD/Robert Black Agency Sheree Hartwell Shares What It Takes To Make It In The Modeling Industry
On today’s podcast, owner of FORD/Robert Black Agency Sheree Hartwell shares the ins and outs of the modeling world and what attributes they look when recruiting new talent.
BACK STORY
Since its origination in 1987, the FORD/Robert Black Agency has been one of the most prominent model and talent agencies in the Southwest. Sheree Hartwell purchased the agency from founder Robert Black on March 1, 2005, after being the Agency Director for 6 months. Since acquiring FORD/Robert Black Agency, Sheree has significantly expanded the agency's reach and impact. Today, she and the FORD/RBA community celebrate her 20 years of ownership and success. Under Sheree’s proprietorship, the agency has earned its reputation as an industry leader. “I feel incredibly fortunate to have been able to build my career here in Arizona and cultivate a community that is making its mark in our industry not only in our local market, but globally,” Sheree shares. The agency provides a full-service model and talent agency to a diverse talent group of all ages, genders, ethnicities, and body types for print, runway, commercial print, TV/film, and voice-over work. FORD/RBA also represents expert artists for photography, hair/make-up, and wardrobe styling. Over the years, the agency has doubled its office space now located in North Scottsdale and the tenure of staff now totals over 75 years of experience amongst the team. The agency has also grown its roster to over 500 signed talent, and added new divisions including Kids, Hair/Makeup/Wardrobe, Families, and Social Media Influencers.
Website: https://fordmodels.com/
Instagram: fordrba
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