The Necessary Entrepreneur welcomes Cincinnati photographer Michael Wilson. Michael has built a reputation for creating visually stunning and iconic album covers for artists across multiple genres, including Lyle Lovett, John Hiatt, Jason Isbell, and Jeremy Pinnell. With a sharp eye for detail and a deep understanding of music and its culture, Michael’s work turns an artist’s vision into a visual masterpiece that resonates with fans and stands the test of time.

Michael shares the story of how he turned his photography hobby into a career, navigating twists and turns along the way—from working for a textbook company to becoming a full-time freelancer. He talks about traveling to California to meet Jeri Heiden with his portfolio, which eventually led to one of his photographs being used for the cover of All Shook Down by The Replacements. Stick around as Michael shares stories from a life dedicated to searching for light.

In celebration of Nonesuch Records' 60th anniversary, the label has teamed up with Michael, who has beautifully captured dozens of Nonesuch artists over the past 25 years, to produce Michael Wilson / 25 Years: A Nonesuch Collection.

Find out more about Michael Wilson
https://www.michaelwilson.pictures/
https://www.instagram.com/micartwil/
https://www.facebook.com/michael.wilson.77715

Order a copy of Michael Wilson/25 Years: A Nonesuch Collection:
https://store.nonesuch.com/en/nonesuch/michael-wilson-25-years-a-nonesuch-collection/075597899184.html?srsltid=AfmBOopvAnB_U-Y9n-zdNyEt9rebah6quHe3yugHClhsES-2ga9PxjrO

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The Necessary Entrepreneur welcomes Paula Blankenship- CEO & founder of Heirloom Traditions All-In-One Paint, a game-changing product that has revolutionized the world of furniture painting and DIY projects. With a passion for quality craftsmanship and a deep understanding of the needs of her customers, Paula has built Heirloom Traditions into a trusted name in the industry.

Her innovative approach to all-in-one paint solutions has made it easier than ever for DIY enthusiasts and professionals alike to transform furniture and decor with lasting, beautiful results. From creating a brand that resonates with her audience to navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship, Paula's journey is one of creativity, resilience, and empowerment.

In today's conversation, we’ll dive into Paula’s entrepreneurial journey, her insights into the world of product development, and how she turned her vision into a successful business.

Find out more about Paula:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulajblankenship/
https://www.instagram.com/passionate_for_paint/
https://www.facebook.com/paulablankenship.htpaint

Find out more about Heirloom Traditions ALL-IN-ONE Paint:
https://www.allinonepaint.com/
https://www.facebook.com/heirloomtraditionspaint
https://www.instagram.com/heirloomtraditionspaint/
https://www.youtube.com/@heirloomtraditionspaint
https://www.tiktok.com/@heirloomtraditionspaint
https://www.pinterest.com/heirloomtraditionspaint/

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Website: https://www.thenecessaryentrepreneur.com/
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X (Formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/MPerkinsTNE
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tnepod/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tneclips

The Necessary Entrepreneur welcomes Shawn Harper, an entrepreneur, speaker, author, and leader who has turned his passion into a thriving empire. With a background in business development and a deep commitment to personal growth, Shawn is not only a successful entrepreneur in cybersecurity but also a mentor who helps others unlock their full potential.

Shawn is known for his innovative approach to problem-solving and his ability to build sustainable businesses from the ground up. Over the years, he's worked with countless individuals and companies, helping them scale and achieve their goals. His unique perspective on leadership, resilience, and the entrepreneurial mindset has made him a sought-after speaker and consultant.

Today, we'll dive into Shawn's journey—the power of the dream, transparency, mastering the mundane, the people's coach, and positioning yourself to win.

Find out more about Shawn Harper:
www.shawnharperwins.com
https://www.linkedin.com/in/shawnharper75/
https://www.instagram.com/shawnharperspeaker
https://www.facebook.com/shawnharperspeaks
https://www.youtube.com/@ShawnHarperSpeaks
https://www.tiktok.com/@shawnspeaks75

Order Shawn's Books Here:
"The Winning Edge" - https://a.co/d/0rWzoNM
"The Winologist" - https://a.co/d/7kBoAji

Connect With Us:
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X (Formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/MPerkinsTNE
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tnepod/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tneclips

The Necessary Entrepreneur welcomes the multi-talented Darian Sanders- a dynamic performer, singer, songwriter, speaker, and recent author from Kentucky. Darian has captivated audiences on some of the world’s most iconic stages, with standout performances in major Broadway productions, including playing the iconic role of Simba, in Disney's The Lion King. He also leads worship across the country. Beyond the stage, he's an advocate for personal growth & creativity. He's currently on a book tour promoting "Don't Fear Your Roar".

Today, Darian is here to share his journey from Bluegrass to Broadway to authoring his own work, the mindset shifts he’s made along the way, and how he’s built a thriving career in the arts while also staying true to his personal values and passions.

Find out more about Darian Sanders:
https://www.dariansanders.com/
https://www.instagram.com/_dariansanders_/
https://www.facebook.com/darian.sanders.756

Order a Copy of "Don't Fear Your Roar":
https://www.dariansanders.com/books

Connect With Us:
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X (Formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/MPerkinsTNE
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The Necessary Entrepreneur welcomes Evan "X" Johnson, the CEO and founder of Timeless Recording Studio, one of the premier creative hubs for artists, producers, and musicians who are shaping the future of sound. With a reputation for delivering world-class recording experiences, Timeless has become a staple in the industry, working with top-tier talent while staying at the cutting edge of music production.

During the conversation, Evan talks about working with some of the elite names in hip hop, when he realized he wanted to get into the music industry, dropping expectations with people, and the Mary J Blige song that made him cry when he was 6 years old. He also talks about hustling in school for lunch money, the beginning of Timeless Recording Studio, being a landlord, and the benefits of therapy. Whether you’re in the music business or any other creative field, you won’t want to miss this conversation.

Find out more about Evan:
https://www.mamanamedmeevan.com/
www.instagram.com/mamanamedmeevan
www.twitter.com/mamanamedmeevan
www.soundcloud.com/mamanamedmeevan
https://www.youtube.com/mamanamedmeevan
https://www.tiktok.com/@mamanamedmeevan
https://www.facebook.com/evanyoungexjohnson/

Find out more about Timeless Recording Studio:
https://www.timelessrecordingstudio.com/
https://www.instagram.com/timelessrstudio/
https://www.facebook.com/TimelessRStudio/
https://x.com/timelessrstudio
@timelessrecordingstudio8318

Connect With Us:
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X (Formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/MPerkinsTNE
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tnepod/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tneclips

Welcome to the Necessary Entrepreneur Podcast! Today, we have an exciting guest who embodies innovation and resilience in the culinary world: Johnny Chu, the CEO of KungFood Chu's Amerasia. With a passion for blending traditional flavors and modern techniques, Johnny has transformed his family business into a thriving brand known for its unique approach to Asian cuisine. Under his leadership, KungFood Chu's has not only expanded its menu but also embraced sustainability and community engagement.

During the conversation we talk about Johnny's family immigrating to the US from Taiwan when Johnny was 10 years old and the cultureal differences his family recognized. We also talk learning compassion and patience, shaping your mind every day, seeking to understand, and making the decision of "what do we want?". Stick around as Johnny talks about the KungFood approach and the proper way to brew tea.

Find out more about KungFood Chu's AmerAsia:
https://kungfood.online/
https://www.facebook.com/KungFoodChu/
https://www.instagram.com/kungfoodchu/

Find out more about Johnny Chu:
https://www.facebook.com/jxchu

Find out more about KungBrew Cafe:
https://www.instagram.com/kungbrewcafe/
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555964825920
https://sites.google.com/view/kungbrew-cafe/home

Connect With Us:
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YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thenecessaryentrepreneur
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X (Formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/MPerkinsTNE
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tnepod/
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The Necessary Entrepreneur welcomes Rick & Joni Paynter, the dynamic duo behind The Kentucky Shop. With a passion for showcasing the rich culture and craftsmanship of Kentucky, they’ve created a unique retail experience that celebrates local artisans and products. Rick and Joni are not just business partners; they’re a husband-and-wife team dedicated to supporting their community and fostering connections through their carefully curated offerings with a commitment to quality and authenticity.

During the conversation, Rick & Joni talk about working festivals and fairs while launching The Kentucky Shop, being responsible for employees as entrepreneurs, the importance of a good support system, and direct-to-garment screen printing. Stick around as Rick talks about doing comedy on TikTok as The Kentucky Dad.

Find out more about The Kentucky Shop:
https://thekyshop.com/
https://www.facebook.com/ShopLocalKy
https://www.instagram.com/shoplocalky/
https://www.tiktok.com/@shoplocalky
https://www.youtube.com/@shoplocalky

Find out more about Rick & Joni Paynter:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/rickpaynter/
https://www.instagram.com/thekydad/
https://www.facebook.com/RickPaynter2
https://www.instagram.com/jonipaynter
https://www.facebook.com/jonipaynter

Connect With Us:
Website: https://www.thenecessaryentrepreneur.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thenecessaryentrepreneur
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenecessaryentrepreneur/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheNecessaryEntrepreneurPod
X (Formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/MPerkinsTNE
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tnepod/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tneclips