Santa Fe Fashion Week Fashion Behind the Curtain with Santa Fe Fashion Week Executive Producer Stephen Cuomo

Stephen

 🎙️ Fashion Behind the CurtainHosted by Santa Fe Fashion Week Executive Producer Stephen Cuomo, Fashion Behind the Curtain takes you on an exclusive journey into the business of fashion. Each episode offers a deep dive into the industry’s inner workings, featuring candid interviews with designers, models, stylists, photographers, and other key players. Discover the stories, strategies, and secrets behind the glamour as Stephen pulls back the curtain on what it really takes to succeed in fashion. Whether you’re an aspiring fashion professional or a style enthusiast, this podcast delivers insider insights you won’t find anywhere else. 

  1. Building Trust and Innovation: Gigi Montrose’s Kevlar Fashion Revolution

    OCT 24

    Building Trust and Innovation: Gigi Montrose’s Kevlar Fashion Revolution

    Send us a text Gigi Montrose designs clothes that turn heads and save lives. A hairstylist turned fashion innovator, Gigi has built a global reputation for merging luxury design with protective technology. Her brand bridges two worlds—style and safety—by creating Kevlar-infused motorcycle apparel that empowers riders to look good and stay protected.  In this episode, host Stephen Cuomo sits down with Gigi to explore how she evolved from styling hair to crafting garments that challenge industry norms. Gigi’s story is about reinvention, resilience, and purpose. She explains how working in creative environments early in her career shaped her approach to design, pushing her to merge beauty with function. Her vision became reality when she developed her first line of motorcycle apparel that fused couture-level tailoring with advanced protective fibers.  Launching her brand in London gave Gigi the exposure she needed to reach a global audience. She describes how trade shows became her classroom—teaching her how to negotiate, network, and build long-term business relationships. These events also opened doors to collaborations with BMW, Ducati, and DuPont Kevlar, partnerships that helped elevate her label from concept to international brand. Each collaboration taught her to adapt, maintain standards, and ensure that her products delivered both safety and style without compromise.  Gigi also opens the challenges behind the scenes: finding reliable factories, navigating ethical production, and staying true to her brand’s mission. She emphasizes how education plays a vital role in her work—teaching consumers about real quality, material integrity, and why craftsmanship still matters. For Gigi, fashion isn’t just about appearance; it’s about purpose, responsibility, and connection.  Her insights reveal a simple truth: authenticity builds longevity. Through her transparency and attention to detail, Gigi has turned her designs into a movement for conscious, confident living. Whether you ride or not, her story offers valuable lessons on building something that stands for both creativity and conscience.  Quotes:  “Fashion should make you feel powerful, not just look good. When people wear my pieces, I want them to feel unstoppable.”     “I didn’t invent Kevlar, but I found a way to make it beautiful. That’s what innovation really is—transforming utility into confidence.”      “There’s this idea that you have to choose between art and safety, between creativity and function. I’ve spent my whole career proving that’s false.”      “Every trade show was a classroom. I learned more in those aisles talking to people than any design book could ever teach.”      “Partnerships with brands like BMW and DuPont Kevlar didn’t happen overnight. They happened because I showed up, built trust, and never compromised my standards.”     “Ethical production is non-negotiable for me. The hands that build your product are as important as the people who wear it.”   Takeaways:   ●      Authentic innovation creates a lasting impact. Gigi Montrose built her brand by merging creative design with technical function, showing that aesthetics and protection can coexist without compromise.  ●      Relationships drive opportunity. Trade shows, collaborations, and personal connections built the foundation of Gigi’s global brand. Every conversation became a stepping stone to partnerships with industry leaders like BMW, Ducati, and DuPont Kevlar.

    26 min
  2. Fashion Behind the Curtain: Turning Words into Revenue with Evelina Kaganovitch for your fashion brand

    OCT 14

    Fashion Behind the Curtain: Turning Words into Revenue with Evelina Kaganovitch for your fashion brand

    Send us a text In this episode of Santa Fe Fashion Week’s “Fashion Behind the Curtain,” host Stephen Cuomo sits down with Evelina Kaganovitch — a Berlin-based messaging strategist and copywriter helping creative founders and fashion entrepreneurs transform their content and email marketing into powerful revenue engines. After experiencing burnout in fashion school and rebuilding her career in Berlin’s startup scene, Evelina discovered that most brand launches fail not because of poor offers, but because of broken messaging. Since then, she’s collaborated with over 50 global brands, from Amazon Web Services and the Australian Fashion Council to indie fashion labels and creative coaches — crafting copy that not only sounds great but sells. Known for making marketing simple, human, and effective, Evelina shares her insights on how to connect with your audience authentically, boost conversions, and build a sustainable creative business. Featured on The Successful Fashion Freelancer, The Content Byte, and Copywriter’s Podcast, Evelina is redefining what success looks like — balancing motherhood, entrepreneurship, and creativity on her own terms. 🎧 Tune in to learn: Why messaging — not your offer — determines your sales successHow to write copy that converts for fashion and creative brandsStrategies to grow your email list and turn followers into loyal customersWould you like to be a guest or host a podcast, check out Podmatch: https://www.joinpodmatch.com/fashionbehindthecurtain Don’t forget to LIKE, COMMENT, and SUBSCRIBE for more exclusive fashion industry insights! 💡 Are you in the fashion industry? We’re always looking for passionate guests to share their insights. Drop us a message—we’d love to have you on! 🎙️ Fashion Behind the Curtain Hosted by Santa Fe Fashion Week Executive Producer Stephen Cuomo, Fashion Behind the Curtain takes you on an exclusive journey into the business of fashion. Each episode offers a deep dive into the industry’s inner workings, featuring candid interviews with designers, models, stylists, photographers, and other key players. Discover the stories, strategies, and secrets behind the glamour as Stephen pulls back the curtain on what it really takes to succeed in fashion. Whether you’re an aspiring fashion professional or a style enthusiast, this podcast delivers insider insights you won’t find anywhere else.  1.  visit santafefashionweek.com for information on our upcoming shows.  2. Subscribe to Santa Fe Fashion Week "Fashion Behind the Curtain" on your favorite platform to stay unto date on our latest episodes.  3. If you found value in todays episode, don't forget to leave us a review and share it with your favorite fashion enthusiast.  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/santafefashionweeknm/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@santafefashionweek Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephen-cuomo-36094b20/ #FashionPhotography  #FashionInternships #SantaFeFashionWeek #BehindTheCurtain #StephenCuomo

    31 min
  3. Fashion Behind the Curtain: Innovating the Future with iCreate.Fashion

    OCT 7

    Fashion Behind the Curtain: Innovating the Future with iCreate.Fashion

    Send us a text In this episode of Santa Fe Fashion Week: Fashion Behind the Curtain, host Stephen Cuomo sits down with Kirby Best, President, and Nicole Hugaboom, Vice President of iCreate.Fashion—a trailblazing SaaS platform transforming how the global garment industry connects. 🌍 Discover how iCreate.Fashion is tackling some of fashion’s biggest challenges—from inventory management and profitability to transparency and sustainability. With a $1.36 trillion industry in need of smarter solutions, iCreate.Fashion is pioneering a future where brands and designers collaborate seamlessly, efficiently, and sustainably. Whether you're just starting out or looking to level up in fashion, this episode is packed with real-world insight and inspiration. Fashion Behind the Curtain is the official podcast of Santa Fe Fashion Week, diving into the real business of fashion—from designers and photographers to entrepreneurs connecting people that work in the fashion industry. Santa Fe Fashion Week:https://santafefashionweek.com/ iCreate Fashion: https://icreate.fashion/ Would you like to be a guest or host a podcast, check out Podmatch: https://www.joinpodmatch.com/fashionbehindthecurtain Don’t forget to LIKE, COMMENT, and SUBSCRIBE for more exclusive fashion industry insights! 💡 Are you in the fashion industry? We’re always looking for passionate guests to share their insights. Drop us a message—we’d love to have you on! 🎙️ Fashion Behind the Curtain Hosted by Santa Fe Fashion Week Executive Producer Stephen Cuomo, Fashion Behind the Curtain takes you on an exclusive journey into the business of fashion. Each episode offers a deep dive into the industry’s inner workings, featuring candid interviews with designers, models, stylists, photographers, and other key players. Discover the stories, strategies, and secrets behind the glamour as Stephen pulls back the curtain on what it really takes to succeed in fashion. Whether you’re an aspiring fashion professional or a style enthusiast, this podcast delivers insider insights you won’t find anywhere else.  1.  visit santafefashionweek.com for information on our upcoming shows.  2. Subscribe to Santa Fe Fashion Week "Fashion Behind the Curtain" on your favorite platform to stay unto date on our latest episodes.  3. If you found value in todays episode, don't forget to leave us a review and share it with your favorite fashion enthusiast.  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/santafefashionweeknm/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@santafefashionweek Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephen-cuomo-36094b20/ #FashionPhotography  #FashionInternships #SantaFeFashionWeek #BehindTheCurtain #StephenCuomo

    32 min
  4. What if the handbag you carried made a difference with Jared Lilje, founder of J.Christoph handbags

    OCT 1

    What if the handbag you carried made a difference with Jared Lilje, founder of J.Christoph handbags

    Send us a text In this episode of Santa Fe Fashion Week’s Fashion Behind the Curtain, Executive Producer Stephen Cuomo sits down with Jared Lilje, founder of J.Christoph handbags. What began as a retired Air Force Special Operations pilot’s awakening to the harsh realities of human trafficking has transformed into a fashion brand with purpose. Jared shares how J.Christoph was born not just to create luxury handbags, but to empower individuals to join the fight against human trafficking and support underfunded rescue and rehabilitation programs. Discover how fashion can be more than style—it can be a force for change.  For more episodes visit our website: https://santafefashionweek.com If you would like to be a guest on our podcast email us at cuomo.steve@yahoo.com  To purchase hand bags visit Jchristoph at https://jchristoph.com/ Would you like to be a guest or host a podcast, check out Podmatch: https://www.joinpodmatch.com/fashionbehindthecurtain Don’t forget to LIKE, COMMENT, and SUBSCRIBE for more exclusive fashion industry insights! 💡 Are you in the fashion industry? We’re always looking for passionate guests to share their insights. Drop us a message—we’d love to have you on! 🎙️ Fashion Behind the Curtain Hosted by Santa Fe Fashion Week Executive Producer Stephen Cuomo, Fashion Behind the Curtain takes you on an exclusive journey into the business of fashion. Each episode offers a deep dive into the industry’s inner workings, featuring candid interviews with designers, models, stylists, photographers, and other key players. Discover the stories, strategies, and secrets behind the glamour as Stephen pulls back the curtain on what it really takes to succeed in fashion. Whether you’re an aspiring fashion professional or a style enthusiast, this podcast delivers insider insights you won’t find anywhere else.  1.  visit santafefashionweek.com for information on our upcoming shows.  2. Subscribe to Santa Fe Fashion Week "Fashion Behind the Curtain" on your favorite platform to stay unto date on our latest episodes.  3. If you found value in todays episode, don't forget to leave us a review and share it with your favorite fashion enthusiast.  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/santafefashionweeknm/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@santafefashionweek Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephen-cuomo-36094b20/ #FashionPhotography  #FashionInternships #SantaFeFashionWeek #BehindTheCurtain #StephenCuomo

    29 min
  5. From Couture to Ready-to-Wear: Roger Canamar on Fashion’s Challenges

    SEP 22

    From Couture to Ready-to-Wear: Roger Canamar on Fashion’s Challenges

    Send us a text  From Couture to Ready-to-Wear: Roger Canamar on Fashion’s Challenges  In this episode of Santa Fe Fashion Week’s Fashion Behind the Curtain, Executive Producer Stephen Cuomo sits down with Roger Canamar, the Southern California–based fashion designer celebrated for his timeless haute couture. With a signature style that blends classic elegance and modern luxury, Roger shares the story of his journey into custom fashion design—and the passion that continues to drive his work. Together, they explore the challenges designers face in the wholesale ready-to-wear market, why bespoke craftsmanship still holds power in today’s industry, and how Roger envisions the future of luxury fashion. Tune in for an insider’s perspective on artistry, business, and the enduring allure of couture. Would you like to be a guest or host a podcast, check out Podmatch: https://www.joinpodmatch.com/fashionbehindthecurtain Don’t forget to LIKE, COMMENT, and SUBSCRIBE for more exclusive fashion industry insights! 💡 Are you in the fashion industry? We’re always looking for passionate guests to share their insights. Drop us a message—we’d love to have you on! 🎙️ Fashion Behind the Curtain Hosted by Santa Fe Fashion Week Executive Producer Stephen Cuomo, Fashion Behind the Curtain takes you on an exclusive journey into the business of fashion. Each episode offers a deep dive into the industry’s inner workings, featuring candid interviews with designers, models, stylists, photographers, and other key players. Discover the stories, strategies, and secrets behind the glamour as Stephen pulls back the curtain on what it really takes to succeed in fashion. Whether you’re an aspiring fashion professional or a style enthusiast, this podcast delivers insider insights you won’t find anywhere else.  1.  visit santafefashionweek.com for information on our upcoming shows.  2. Subscribe to Santa Fe Fashion Week "Fashion Behind the Curtain" on your favorite platform to stay unto date on our latest episodes.  3. If you found value in todays episode, don't forget to leave us a review and share it with your favorite fashion enthusiast.  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/santafefashionweeknm/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@santafefashionweek Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephen-cuomo-36094b20/ #FashionPhotography  #FashionInternships #SantaFeFashionWeek #BehindTheCurtain #StephenCuomo

    15 min
  6. Fashion with a Conscience: Courtney Barringer on Beauty and Responsibility

    SEP 17

    Fashion with a Conscience: Courtney Barringer on Beauty and Responsibility

    Send us a text In this episode of Santa Fe Fashion Week’s Fashion Behind the Curtain podcast, Executive Producer Stephen Cuomo sits down with fashion designer and author Courtney Barringer of Eternal Sunshine Threads. Courtney shares her vision of a fashion industry where beauty and responsibility go hand in hand. From her work as a designer to her voice as an author, she demonstrates how conscious creativity can inspire change—proving that fashion doesn’t have to choose between aesthetics and ethics. Tune in for a conversation that pulls back the curtain on how style can honor both the planet and the people who bring garments to life. Would you like to be a guest or host a podcast, check out Podmatch: https://www.joinpodmatch.com/fashionbehindthecurtain Don’t forget to LIKE, COMMENT, and SUBSCRIBE for more exclusive fashion industry insights! 💡 Are you in the fashion industry? We’re always looking for passionate guests to share their insights. Drop us a message—we’d love to have you on! 🎙️ Fashion Behind the Curtain Hosted by Santa Fe Fashion Week Executive Producer Stephen Cuomo, Fashion Behind the Curtain takes you on an exclusive journey into the business of fashion. Each episode offers a deep dive into the industry’s inner workings, featuring candid interviews with designers, models, stylists, photographers, and other key players. Discover the stories, strategies, and secrets behind the glamour as Stephen pulls back the curtain on what it really takes to succeed in fashion. Whether you’re an aspiring fashion professional or a style enthusiast, this podcast delivers insider insights you won’t find anywhere else.  1.  visit santafefashionweek.com for information on our upcoming shows.  2. Subscribe to Santa Fe Fashion Week "Fashion Behind the Curtain" on your favorite platform to stay unto date on our latest episodes.  3. If you found value in todays episode, don't forget to leave us a review and share it with your favorite fashion enthusiast.  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/santafefashionweeknm/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@santafefashionweek Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephen-cuomo-36094b20/ #FashionPhotography  #FashionInternships #SantaFeFashionWeek #BehindTheCurtain #StephenCuomo

    24 min

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

 🎙️ Fashion Behind the CurtainHosted by Santa Fe Fashion Week Executive Producer Stephen Cuomo, Fashion Behind the Curtain takes you on an exclusive journey into the business of fashion. Each episode offers a deep dive into the industry’s inner workings, featuring candid interviews with designers, models, stylists, photographers, and other key players. Discover the stories, strategies, and secrets behind the glamour as Stephen pulls back the curtain on what it really takes to succeed in fashion. Whether you’re an aspiring fashion professional or a style enthusiast, this podcast delivers insider insights you won’t find anywhere else.