his week on Next Rung Radio, we dive into the colorful world of Dean Tomasek, a rare creative who’s lived multiple artistic lifetimes. From painting stage sets for Dolly Parton, Alice Cooper, and KISS, to playing bass on tour and designing murals across the country, Dean’s story is one of true resilience, humility, and raw creative fire. Hear how he shifted from supporting roles to owning his artistry, stayed grounded through feast-or-famine seasons, and built a legacy out of saying YES, even when he didn’t know how. Whether you’re torn between passions or looking for clarity in your creative path, this conversation will inspire you to trust your voice, follow your hands, and keep climbing, no matter what the canvas looks like.

Episode Highlights

From bassist to muralist: Dean shares how he carved out careers in both music and visual art.

Created legendary stage designs for Dolly Parton, Grace Potter, Alice Cooper, and even Kiss (including 6-ft muscular cat sculptures!).

Talked about carving giant stage props from Styrofoam with heat wires and rasps, pure grit and invention.

Reveals the power of diversity in creativity and the value of being a “yes man” even when the task seems impossible.

Highlights how working through the pandemic taught him to pivot and adapt using digital sales and commissioned art.

To Learn More About Dean Visit: Dean Tomasek

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In this deeply moving and iconic episode of Next Rung Radio, we sit down with Manuel Cuevas , the 92-year-old master tailor behind the looks of Johnny Cash, Elvis, Dolly Parton, and hundreds of the world’s most celebrated artists. From picking up a needle at age seven to shaping fashion history, Manuel shares how clothing isn't just fabric: it's identity, storytelling, and legacy. With poetic humility and a mischievous grin, he reminds us that true beauty lies within, he just adorns it so the world can recognize it. This isn’t just about rhinestones and runways... it’s about purpose, perseverance, and the soul of creation.

If you’ve ever doubted your gift or wondered what it means to truly love what you do, this episode is your wake-up call.

Episode Highlights

Legendary fashion designer who began sewing at age 7 and went on to dress Elvis, Johnny Cash, and even presidents.

Describes his mission not to change people but to help them feel seen and celebrated through what they wear.

Emphasized cooperation, legacy, and passion as cornerstones of longevity in any creative field.

Still creating at 92, sharing wisdom on why work doesn’t feel like work when you love what you do.

To Learn More About Manuel Visit Manuel Couture

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Get ready for an explosive episode, literally. In this week’s Next Rung Radio Podcast, we sit down with pyrotechnics mastermind Randy Bast, the man behind the fire, sparks, and spectacle for rock legends like KISS, AC/DC, Rush, and even NASCAR and HBO. From lighting his first fuse at just 18 to creating jaw-dropping stage effects across 40+ countries, Randy’s journey is one of grit, passion, and pure rock ‘n’ roll chaos. He opens up about his early hustle as a concert promoter, life on tour with the world’s biggest acts, and the mindset it takes to transform a wild dream into a decades-long global business. You’ll hear about the lessons behind the flames, the financial risks, the heart-stopping setbacks, and the sheer determination that kept him climbing rung after rung toward mastery. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, artist, or dream chaser, this episode will ignite your inner fire and remind you that you can build the life you love...one spark at a time.

Episode Highlights

From local concert promoter to pyrotechnic legend for KISS, AC/DC, and Rush.

Built a global business around his passion for fire, light, and spectacle.

Talks openly about financial risks, creative resilience, and learning to ignite success without burning out.

Reveals how integrity, relationships, and adaptability kept him thriving for decades.

Inspires entrepreneurs to “find your fire” no matter what industry you’re in.

To learn more about Randy Visit High Tech Special Effects

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