With a career spanning over 25 years, Mark Testa has defined himself as a leader in experiential design and production. As Founder and Creative Director of Mark Stephen Experiential Agency, he has built a reputation for crafting culturally relevant, immersive experiences that connect with audiences across the globe. From producing international events during his early career at Condé Nast Traveler to leading large-scale activations for brands at Essence Festival of Culture and Beautycon, Mark’s work reflects a deep commitment to curiosity, empathy, and innovation. His philosophy—treating every project as both execution and experiment—has kept his agency at the forefront of the ever-evolving live experience industry.

This episode we discuss:

• Mark’s early career producing global events at Condé Nast Traveler.
• Curiosity as a discipline that fuels empathy, innovation, and cultural fluency.
• Adapting experiences to different audiences, from Beautycon to Essence Festival.
• How AI, AR, and social platforms are reshaping live events.
• Real-time learning: adjusting activations based on audience behavior.
• Building authenticity, inclusivity, and cultural relevance into every project.
• Why experimentation and adaptability are key to MSEA’s 20+ years of growth.

Thanks for tuning in. Check us out at:

https://www.instagram.com/markstephenagency/

Thanks for tuning in. Check us out at https://www.instagram.com/markstephenagency/

Thanks for tuning in. Check us out at https://www.instagram.com/markstephenagency/

Thanks for tuning in. Check us out at https://www.instagram.com/markstephenagency/

With a career defined by cultural connection and creative leadership, Carlos Benjamin is a dynamic force in the experiential marketing industry. As the founder of High Profile Lifestyle, he builds elite, culturally aligned teams that bring brand stories to life through authentic, high-energy experiences. His work spans collaborations with Oprah Winfrey, Disney, the NBA, Pepsi, and the Essence Festival, as well as advocacy-driven initiatives like the AAPF’s HBCU Banned Books Tour. Beyond production, Carlos is a fierce advocate for freelancers, spearheading ventures like Freelancers Unplugged and The Ambassador’s Alliance to create stability, access, and opportunity for independent talent. Known as a connector, a mentor, and an artist in his own right, Carlos is reshaping the future of live experiences and the freelance economy.

This episode we discuss:

• Carlos shares his unconventional career path and the pivotal choices that led him into experiential marketing.
• Why mentorship has been a cornerstone in his journey, and how he now mentors others to pay it forward.
• The importance of investing in yourself — financially, creatively, and personally — to sustain growth in a demanding industry.
• How Carlos approaches building culturally aligned teams that embody the brands they represent.
• The story behind Freelancers Unplugged and The Ambassador’s Alliance, and how they aim to transform the freelance economy.
• Lessons on resilience: why going further often means going through more.
• Carlos’s advice to emerging professionals about creating your own opportunities and leaning into mentorship at every stage of your career.

Thanks for tuning in. Check us out at:

https://www.instagram.com/markstephenagency/

Thanks for tuning in. Check us out at https://www.instagram.com/markstephenagency/

Thanks for tuning in. Check us out at https://www.instagram.com/markstephenagency/

With over 20 years of experience, Staci Hallmon is a respected business development strategist known for transforming brands through innovative experiential and live event strategies that connect business lines, talent, and consumers. As founder of SHB Enterprises, she leads a firm that builds scalable, revenue-generating platforms for Fortune 500 companies, media brands, and nonprofits. Her leadership roles at Endeavor | IMG | On Location and BET Networks saw her launch groundbreaking programs, drive revenue growth, and pioneer hybrid event models. A recognized industry expert and frequent speaker, she is also deeply committed to community impact through her work with Project Morry.

This episode we discuss:

• Staci shares her creative roots in theater and how directing live performance shaped her approach to experiential events.
• She breaks down her “Golden Triangle” framework: aligning audience, brand, and community impact.
• We dive into the origin story of Essence Festival’s Beauty Carnival and what it took to scale it into a major success.
• She offers real talk on sponsorship strategy—why “cool” isn’t enough, and how brands can create meaningful, measurable engagement.
• Staci’s advice for young professionals: embrace feedback, stay curious, and don’t be afraid to start over
• Staci’s advice for clients: know your goals, trust your experts, and be honest about your thresholds for success
• The value of active listening, mentorship, and feedback culture in creative teams

Thanks for tuning in. Check us out at:

https://www.instagram.com/markstephenagency/

Thanks for tuning in. Check us out at https://www.instagram.com/markstephenagency/

James Aguiar is a celebrated fashion director, creative consultant, and television host with a dynamic career spanning over 25 years. From his early days dressing mannequins in Macy’s windows to becoming fashion director at Bergdorf Goodman and creative director of Isaac Mizrahi Live, James has helped shape the voice of fashion across print, television, and retail. He has worked with some of the world’s top luxury brands, appeared on major TV networks, and produced unforgettable fashion stories at Modern Luxury. Known for his theatrical flair and deep industry knowledge, James brings a singular perspective that blends glamour, grit, and authenticity.

This episode we discuss:

• James’ unconventional path from NYC nightlife to window dressing at Macy’s and Bergdorf Goodman
• How he broke into fashion editorial without formal training
• His transition into television, hosting Full Frontal Fashion and red carpet coverage
• Leading Modern Luxury’s fashion direction across 18 titles and redefining regional luxury
• His current role with Isaac Mizrahi Live and lessons learned navigating between luxury and mass-market
• James’ perspective on patience, style identity, and owning a nonlinear creative journey
• Why he believes “jobs are rented, careers are owned”
• A preview of his upcoming podcast, Label Queen, exploring identity, perception, and style beyond designer tags

Thanks for tuning in. Check us out at https://www.instagram.com/markstephenagency/

In this episode, Mark speaks with Richelle Carey. Richelle Carey is an award-winning international journalist and moderator, known for her work with CNN and Al Jazeera America. With over two decades in journalism, Richelle has anchored major broadcasts, reported internationally, and now facilitates real conversations with global changemakers at leadership forums, summits, and events such as the Doha Forum. Today, she focuses on moderating major conferences across a range of topics, combining her sharp journalism skills with an authentic, conversational style that engages audiences worldwide.

This episode we discuss:

• Richelle’s unconventional path into journalism and her early career lessons
• How she transitioned from local news to CNN, and later Al Jazeera in Doha, Qatar
• The differences between American media and international journalism
• How moderating live events compares to traditional news anchoring
• Richelle’s approach to creating authentic conversations, even in high-pressure environments
• Her advice for creating better panels and interviews through preparation, empathy, and real connection

Thanks for tuning in. Check us out at https://www.instagram.com/markstephenagency/

In this episode, Mark speaks with Pamela Kupper. Pamela Kupper, Founder of Thesan, is a theatrical lighting designer with over 25 years of experience across theater, opera, events, architecture, and fashion. She brings a holistic approach to every project, balancing function and beauty. Pamela also has a background in project management and has worked on landmark façade lighting. She continues to design for live theater and events, staying current with the evolving needs of modern productions. She is a member of United Scenic Artists Local 829.
This episode we discuss:

• Pamela’s background and early career challenges
• Pamela shares her path from theater to corporate, fashion, and broadcast lighting.
• She explains how lighting shapes emotion and tells a story.
• Her process blends creativity with technical precision.
• Highlights a mountain lighting project driven by storytelling.

Thanks for tuning in. Check us out at https://www.instagram.com/markstephenagency/

In this episode, Mark speaks with Luciana Pampalone.  Luciana is an award-winning photographer and artist with over 30 years of global experience. Her work has been featured at top galleries in New York and Miami, as well as magazines and books, including Perfect Entertaining. Based on her contributions to the creative arts, she has been named George Wayne's Top 100 Creative Influencers. 

This episode we discuss: 

• Luciana’s background and early career challenges.
• Creative Ventures, Art Projects, AI in photography. 
• Industry evolution & her personal insights. 
• Message behind her Crowns.
• Share stories, tips serving clients & so much more 

Luciana Pampalone: 

https://www.lucianapampalonestudios.com/ 

https://www.instagram.com/lucianapampalone?igsh=MWg0djk5dGUwdjVraQ==

https://www.instagram.com/dream_team_creatives1?igsh=MWx5d2d0cTNzdjZrZQ== 

https://www.dreamteam-creatives.com/ 

https://www.linkedin.com/mwlite/profile/in/lucianapampalone

https://a.co/d/7USTwD2

https://a.co/d/3yeU3UK

https://a.co/d/97iIqtw

Mark Testa: 

https://www.markstephenagency.com

[email protected]

https://www.linkedin.com/company/mark-stephen-design-&-production/

https://www.instagram.com/markstephenea/

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCK13o22i4RxQvbAgwwlh9tQ?view_as=subscriber

Thanks for tuning in. Check us out at https://www.instagram.com/markstephenagency/

In this episode, Mark speaks with Adrianne Mellen. Adrianne Owner and Lead Planner of Propeller US. She began her career in publishing from Vogue to Real Simple. In 2009 she launched her own successful event planning business that has evolved to a more purposeful driven company that empowers women in business and life. Adrianne recently launched a new venture that creates bespoke experiences at New York Fashion Week. 

This episode we discuss: 

• Adrianne’s background and early career in Publishing.
• Networking & Determination. 
• The transition to Event Planning & Launching Propeller. 
• Share stories, tips serving clients & Fashion Week Experiences.
• So much more 

Adrianne Mellen:
https://propeller-us.com/
Email: [email protected]
Email: [email protected]

Mark Testa
https://www.markstephenagency.com
[email protected]
https://www.linkedin.com/company/mark-stephen-design-&-production/
https://www.instagram.com/markstephenea/
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCK13o22i4RxQvbAgwwlh9tQ?view_as=subscriber

Thanks for tuning in. Check us out at https://www.instagram.com/markstephenagency/

In this episode, Mark speaks with Ty Yorio. Ty a leader in event security. His company keeps high profile events safe and secure with a degree in criminal justice. He became a New York city police officer, then detective. After he retired, he founded Citadel security, providing services to New York fashion week to freeze art fair. 

This episode we discuss: 

• Ty’s background in Law Enforcement to how he started the business 
• Share stories and tips serving the clients in this business 
• “Stay Focused, give the client what they need” 
• So much more 

Ty Yorio:
https://www.citadelsecurityagency.com/

Mark Testa
https://www.markstephenagency.com
[email protected]
https://www.linkedin.com/company/mark-stephen-design-&-production/
https://www.instagram.com/markstephenea/
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCK13o22i4RxQvbAgwwlh9tQ?view_as=subscriber 

Thanks for tuning in. Check us out at https://www.instagram.com/markstephenagency/

In this episode, Mark speaks with Cate Lochead. Cate is CMO for Snorkel AI, that enables enterprises to develop AI that works for their unique workloads.
Cate is a master in marketing and building world class teams. With over 25 years of experience building high growth organizations, Cate is now a leader in AI space. 

In this episode we discuss: 

• How Cate got started in Tech, her background, Marketing and AI.
• Cate Shares how leveraging events can elevate your brand. 

Cate Lochead:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/clochead/ 
https://snorkel.ai/

Mark Testa
https://www.markstephenagency.com
[email protected]
https://www.linkedin.com/company/mark-stephen-design-&-production/
https://www.instagram.com/markstephenea/
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCK13o22i4RxQvbAgwwlh9tQ?view_as=subscriber

Thanks for tuning in. Check us out at https://www.instagram.com/markstephenagency/