From entertainers and restaurateurs to government figures and Fire relief advocates, these 26 male leaders are behind some of the city’s buzziest projects and most important contributions.
The Hideaway Owners
The Hideaway Beverly Hills visionaries, from left: Evan Ross, Ryan Phillippe, Sylvain Bitton, JT Torregiani and Jeffrey Best.Credit: Irvin Rivera
Jeffrey Best, Restaurateur, Event Producer and Entrepreneur
Credit: Irvin Rivera
Which projects or accomplishments are you most proud of?
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In 1975, I worked in Studio City as a dishwasher; 25 years later, I opened Firefly blocks from that venue. In 1985, I walked up and down Rodeo Drive to my job at the Grill; 35 years later, we opened The Hideaway. And in the ‘80s, I was a singer in a band that headlined the then Hot Club Lingerie. Now it’s the Warwick that we have owned for over 10 years.
Which men in L.A. have inspired you?
[Daily Grill co-founder] Bob Spivak, [hotelier] Sean MacPherson and [nightclub and A&R mogul] Jon Sidel and, recently, Rick Caruso.
What’s next?
A third Habana in the Palm Springs area.
Sylvain Bitton, Restaurateur and Entrepreneur
Credit: Irvin Rivera
Which projects or accomplishments are you most proud of?
By far, my greatest accomplishment in life is building a family with my wife and our two beautiful boys. Now, if we are talking about my hospitality career then one of my proudest accomplishments would be opening my first nightclub, Les Deux, at the age of 26. That experience became the foundation of my journey, guiding the path that would eventually lead to opening The Hideaway on Rodeo Drive, which stands as one of the greatest achievements of my career.
Which men in L.A. have inspired you?
Everyone has their beginning. Mine was working at Saks Fifth Avenue in Beverly Hills, where I had the opportunity to meet incredible people and build relationships that would later blossom into something much bigger. In a similar way, Craig Susser of Craig’s has been a major inspiration. His journey from serving as the maître d’ at Dan Tana’s to opening one of the most respected restaurants in Los Angeles highlights how relationships, perseverance and hospitality are true cornerstones of success.
What’s next?
I’m always looking ahead for the next project. As my career has evolved, I’ve become more interested in opportunities beyond the hospitality sector. The common thread is always people and whatever I do has to be rooted in connections and relationships I’ve built. That’s what continues to drive me and what I enjoy most.
Recently, I had the chance to co-produce an international event on a mega yacht in Monaco for Formula 1. This was a race viewing experience called RD Grand Prix. It was my first time executing something internationally and the experience was rewarding and eye opening. Now, I’m excited to expand on that concept and bring the F1 race-viewing experience to audiences around the world.
Ryan Phillippe, Actor and Restaurateur
Credit: Irvin Rivera
Which men in L.A. have inspired you?
There’s a lot of film and television projects I’m proud to have been a part of, as well as the success I’ve been able to experience in hospitality, but being a father to three incredible kids and to see who they are becoming makes me most proud. They are my greatest accomplishments.
Which men in L.A. have served as inspirations to you?
I’ve been lucky to have some great male friends and mentors over my time in L.A. The late Garry Shandling was one, as was the late Tony Scott. I miss them all the time. I have a large group of peers I’ve known for over 20 years that inspire me in various ways and my close friend, Dr. Raj Kanodia, serves as a great source of inspiration and advice.
What’s next?
I currently have two films coming out this winter for Paramount/Republic Pictures: One Mile: Chapter 1 and One Mile: Chapter 2. I am also working to help build a new clothing brand, Blanco, with my friend, Matt Sinnreich, and I’m always actively exploring new opportunities in both entertainment and hospitality.
Evan Ross, Actor, Producer, Musician and Restaurateur
Credit: Irvin Rivera
Which projects or accomplishments are you most proud of?
The project I’m most proud of is my most recent one, a film called Turnbuckle. It’s the first film I’ve been involved in not only as an actor but also as a producer, which makes it truly mine. It took me three years to put together, and while it wasn’t easy, the process was both challenging and incredibly rewarding. Being able to bring something to life that came from my own vision has been one of the most exciting experiences of my career.
Which men in L.A. have inspired you?
Rodney Burns is definitely one of them. He’s a true staple in Los Angeles, and his sense of style and artistry is unmatched. He has an incredible eye for everything from furniture to décor, and his perspective on design is one of my absolute favorites. He’s also been a longtime creative collaborator with Lenny Kravitz, which says a lot about his talent.
Another person who has inspired me is my close friend Ron Burkle. He’s always been someone I could call on when it comes to navigating business. His advice and perspective is unmatched, and I value the wisdom and support he’s shared with me over the years.
What’s next?
Right now, I’m working on re-creating Mahogany with my mother — though I’ll keep the details under wraps for now. I’m also involved in the Sammy Davis Jr. story with Elijah Kelley and Lena Waithe, which has been really exciting to develop. On top of that, I’m in post-production for my film Turnbuckle, which stars Terrence Howard, Emile Hirsch, Cara Lavigne, Macy Gray, James Franco and Kate Beckinsale.
As for what’s next, I’m exploring opportunities beyond film — looking into what speaks to me in hospitality, fashion and the creative spaces I love. I’ve always believed my path should reflect both passion and curiosity, and that’s where my focus is moving forward.
JT Torregiani, Restaurateur and entrepreneur
Credit: Irvin Rivera
Which projects or accomplishments are you most proud of?
I’m proud of opening the Hideaway on the famous Rodeo Drive, which has quickly become a staple in Beverly Hills.
Which men in L.A. have inspired you?
My longtime business partner, Sylvain. Our partnership has been built on trust and collaboration throughout the years.
What’s next?
I’ve been developing several hotel projects that I believe have strong potential. I’m excited about the future and see this as the natural next step.
Marc Ange, Interior Designer
Credit: Victor Stoneme
Which projects or accomplishments are you most proud of?
I am very proud of how my work has evolved to merge design, art and storytelling into pieces that feel truly extraordinary. Most recently, my collaboration with 11 Ravens resulted in Colosso, a monumental pool table that blurs the line between sculpture and function: it’s as much a centerpiece as it is a game. Colosso is very much aligned with the spirit of my other collectible works — like Le Refuge, my iconic palm daybed and The Pavone throne chair created for Visionnaire — pieces that are bold, poetic, and invite the viewer into a dreamlike world.
I am also proud of the spaces I’ve created here in Los Angeles, from Muse to the rooftop of the Waldorf Astoria, which is coming soon, or the restaurant at the Mandarin Oriental, which embodies my vision of luxury: immersive, poetic and unforgettable. And of course, my ongoing work with some of the world’s most celebrated luxury houses, products and spaces.
Which men in L.A. have inspired you?
David Lynch was my first portal into the City of Angels. Through his surreal, poetic lens, he depicted Los Angeles as a place where dreams and nightmares coexist: a city of illusion, mystery and the beautiful loss of the soul in search of meaning. His films revealed an undercurrent beneath the sunshine — something raw and deeply human that fascinated me. It made me want to experience the city for myself.
But beyond Lynch, it’s all the people here: those who chase something extraordinary, those who touch success and those who come close. L.A. is a city shaped by the belief that anything is possible. That mindset alone — the courage to try, to fail, to dream again — is a constant source of inspiration for me.
What’s next?
Right now, I’m working on several exciting projects that reflect the direction my practice is taking. Beyond Colosso, I’m designing two new hospitality venues in California, a series of extraordinary residences across the U.S. and the Middle East and a highly artistic luxury hotel in Marrakech. I’m also developing new pieces for my collectible furniture line and preparing for my next presentation at Milan Design Week, where a new collaboration with Visionnaire will be prominently featured.
Looking ahead, my focus is on continuing to push the boundaries of what design can be, creating spaces and objects that are not only functional, but also emotional, surreal and unforgettable.
Timur Bekbosunov, Opera Singer and Producer
Credit: Sandra Powers
Which projects or accomplishments are you most proud of?
I grew up in Soviet Kazakhstan and am very proud that I came all the way to L.A. where I’ve built a career premiering over 30 works by American composers. I’ve always wanted to do contemporary music, and I think some of my best singing was in our Grammy-nominated opera Black Lodge. I am also a film producer and had the chance to observe the work of Nicolas Cage and Alfre Woodard, who starred in our Sundance grand jury prize-winning film Clemency. Before my beautiful American mom Delora passed away from cancer, she told me one of the happiest memories of her life was to see me receive my U.S. citizenship. It was one of the happiest moments of my life as well.
What’s next?
I’ve performed with L.A. Philharmonic many times at Walt Disney Concert Hall and the Hollywood Bowl and with Beth Morrison Projects, but the rest of the work has been in Switzerland, Germany and France. I have three upcoming world premieres in the next couple of months, and they’re all overseas. I think we need to find stronger ways how to connect the different communities here and feel the time is right to bring a new international opera initiative to L.A. I am working on a new musical called Werewolf Camp in collaboration with Magdeburg theater in Germany with my partner Sandra Powers about an immersive werewolf theater experience that goes wrong. Taking risks is part of our artistic DNA — when we stop taking risks, we stop living.
Dylan Efron, Television Personality
Credit: Brian Meller
Which projects or accomplishments are you most proud of?
Winning The Traitors. This was my first step into reality TV, and, at the time, it felt like a big risk. I grew up pretty private, and I could have thought of a hundred reasons why not to do reality TV, but I also felt like I was ready to take a big risk and continue my journey of growth. A lot of the content I make on social media is about pursuing things that make you uncomfortable, conquering fears or trying something new, so when this opportunity came, it felt nice to listen to what I preach — do something that makes me uncomfortable. And I’m just proud that I was able to go on this show, be myself and give 100 percent to it.
I feel like Dancing with the Stars is in the same line. After The Traitors finished, I saw rumors spreading that I should do Dancing with the Stars. I laughed it off because I’m SO NOT a dancer. I always steered away from the spotlight, so I never did talent shows; I even hated raising my hand in class. So the thought of me dancing on stage, the thought of me being “a star” all just felt so far-fetched… but then it became real and I was faced with that same dilemma: be risk averse and play it safe or pursue an experience that I’ll never forget, even if I fail. I’m so happy I pursued it. It’s been an absolutely incredible journey and I hope to stay in the competition as long as I can and keep growing.
Down to Earth was such an incredible time. I was able to travel the world with my brother and, on top of that, make sustainability cool. It felt like we created a new category of TV show where we were able to share our passions of travel and also learn and share organic stories of how we can protect our environment.
I shot a documentary for my YouTube channel where my friend and I travelled to a remote village in the heart of the Amazon Rainforest in Guyana to attempt to catch one of the largest fish in the world. It was an incredible experience, and we were able to capture a beautiful story about sustainability.
Which men in L.A. have inspired you?
My brother definitely. When I first moved to L.A. and was working as an assistant at Warner Bros., he let me move in with him. At first, I was on an air mattress in the living room, and we eventually moved into a house together. I’ve been reflecting lately on how incredible it was that my brother took me in like that. Putting myself in his shoes, it was so selfless to let his brother live with him for those early years and help me start my journey in L.A.
What’s next?
I’m currently putting my all into learning the choreography on Dancing with the Stars. It’s been such an incredible experience, challenging myself in ways I’ve never done before. I really hope to keep improving each week and keep becoming a better ballroom dancer. Beyond Dancing with the Stars, I’m working on a very special project with my buddy, Boston Rob. We found such an incredible friendship working together on The Traitors and we knew we had to cook something up to keep testing our competitive nature. I’m excited to share it with the world very soon!
Alex Evans, Artistic Director of the Bob Baker Marionette Theater
Credit: Clair Vogel
Which men in L.A. have served as inspirations to you?
I saw my first show here when I was 19 and was swept away by the magic of this place. Bob Baker was 85 years old and kind of a Geppetto carrying around this mythos. He was a dreamer but in the most tangible, real way. For 30 years, every Christmas was going to be our last show, and we’d have to shut down. Even in the most dire situations he could feel the levity and joy of flowers dancing on stage. Once Bob died, we spent years waiting for the adults to show up and when we realized nobody was coming, we had to rally together towards a collective cause and survived by connecting the dots of goodwill.
What are you currently working on and what’s next for you?
We make 60 new puppets a year. We’ve had commissions from Kendrick Lamar, Harry Styles and Lil Nas X. We just got announced at Coachella and will soon open our first new show in 40 years, Choo Choo Revue. Our puppets officiate weddings at the theater, we do live music shows and our puppets danced alongside Basquiat and Dalí art at Luna Luna. Last year, 30,000 people came to Bob Baker Day at L.A. State Historic Park. It’s free for everybody and is another huge opportunity to share that Bob Baker is an expression of imagination. I have a dream that we’ll own our building and one of the most beautiful things in L.A. will be securing forever.
Jay Ellis, Actor
Credit: Cibelle-Levi
Which projects or accomplishments are you most proud of?
Lawrence on Insecure. It was pretty amazing to be on a show that takes place in a city that you love, and everyone else on the cast and crew loves so much, while also playing a messy relatable character that challenged me as an actor.
Top Gun and Freaky Tales — the amount of work you put in off camera before “action” really sets everything up when you show up to set. I got to learn that with Tom Cruise on Top Gun and then put it to practice for myself as Sleepy Floyd in Freaky Tales.
Which men in L.A. have inspired you?
Kobe Bryant, Nipsey Hussle, Kendrick Lamar, Michael Tubbs, Prentice Penny, Nick Melvoin, Charles King and Wendell Ellis Sr. (my dad).
What’s next?
Currently working on Running Point season 2 for Netflix and NSFW (Not Suitable For Work) season 1 for Hulu. Next …. If I tell you then it’ll ruin the surprise. And I’m all about the reveal of a magic trick.
Robert Hertzberg, Senator
Credit: Courtesy Robert Herzberg
Which projects or accomplishments are you most proud of?
The Crime Lab at Cal State LA. Ten years in the making with Governor Davis, it is home of the LAPD and Sheriff’s Crime Lab, as well as the Incredible School of Criminal Justice and Criminalistics — the best and largest in the country. The lab includes the Innocence Project, which finds evidence to exonerate the wrongly convicted and it has 100% eliminated the backlog of rape kits in all 88 cities of LA County.
San Fernando Valley Orange Line (G line) working with Zev Yaroslavsky: over 400,000 riders a month, far exceeding expectations.
10th University of California campus in Merced with Congressman Dennis Cardoza. It now serves nearly 10,000 students.
California Consumer Privacy Act with Alastair Mactaggart: First-in-the-nation privacy act that serves as a model for the country.
Which men in L.A. have served as inspirations to you?
Lew Wasserman, Chairman of MCA/Universal and Eli Broad, Broad Foundation. Both men were extraordinary leaders, visionaries and had a deep impact on so many who never knew their names.
What’s next?
The Middle-Class Homeownership Act: I am the author of the November 2026 ballot initiative. I have been working on it for nearly five years with Doug McCarron, National president of the carpenters union, among others. It is a new 3% downpayment program exclusively benefiting the middle class. Only for brand new homes; not existing homes. It authorizes $25 billion for down payment assistance to be funded by private, corporate and philanthropic investors — no taxpayers’ funds. It will result in over 100,000 new homes in California for middle class buyers and is not limited to first-time homebuyers. With rent, childcare, groceries and gas prices so high, so many young families cannot save enough to buy a home. This measure will increase the middle-class housing supply. Home is where the wealth is!
Non-Partisan Candidate School: In Sacramento, I was part of creating the Capitol Institute to train staff and new assembly members. In the Senate, I helped create the Senate Academy for new members. Now I want to start a non-partisan program for any and all candidates who want to run for political office. So many candidates have great and inspiring stories that propel them to public office, but few really understand how government works. How is the sales tax shared among various governments? Where does property tax go? How are schools funded? How is water delivered to Southern California and by which agencies? Understanding the basics will make government work better.
Other Projects Coming
Stay tuned: www.robert.hertzberg.com
Brian Kito, Owner Fugetsu-Do Bakery
Credit: Courtesy Brian Kito
Which projects or accomplishments are you most proud of?
I am the president of the Little Tokyo Public Safety Association. Back in the 1980s, this area became kind of crime ridden. Cars were getting broken into and then we had the Rodney King riots, which shut down all tourism to L.A. We started a volunteer security patrol and cleaned up the neighborhood. It made people feel safe. We have a small police kiosk called a koban. In Japan, you have one in every neighborhood. They check on the elderly, they give directions. You can go to their box and get help.
What are you currently working on and what’s next for you?
Our business is not like most businesses. It’s connected to our culture and our religion, so it’s very unique. They use certain types of pastries for funerals, some for weddings, anniversaries and birthdays. It’s a glutinous rice and we pound it up and we take that dough and mix it with sugar and encrust sweet bean paste inside — that’s the basic old style mochi. For our 100th strawberry, we made strawberry mochi with peanut butter (think of a peanut butter and jelly sandwich), and we now have chocolate ganache mochi. My customer base is majority non-Asian now. We always wanted to break into mainstream acceptance of the product. We’ve created some longevity here, and there’s a future in it that I’d love to pass on to my son. He’ll be the fourth generation.
Frank Lima, International Association of Fire Fighters General Secretary-Treasurer
Credit: Courtesy of Frank Lima
Which projects or accomplishments are you most proud of?
I’ve worked on many projects over the years to better the lives of fire fighters in Los Angeles City and across the nation, but if I were to choose two in particular:
Preventing cell phone towers from being installed on fire station property. Not just in L.A. city, but throughout California. It was a major win for the health of our firefighters, and we have assisted other fire departments throughout the country.
The other would be fighting for and winning pay parity with the LAPD in 2012. It is one of the biggest victories that the United Firefighters of Los Angeles City (UFLAC) – IAFF Local 112 has ever won, and it continues today. This was an important landmark victory for our members, making sure that fire fighters not only got fair pay from the city (and it has made a huge difference in the livelihoods of so many), but delivered the dignity and respect my members deserved. As a father of both a Los Angeles City police officer and firefighter, they both put their lives on the line and take risks every day, and they should certainly be compensated the same. Personally, I would say my greatest achievement is being a good husband, dedicated father to my four children and a nonno (grandpa) to two energetic grandsons.
Which men in L.A. have inspired you?
There have been a lot of influences in my life from a mentorship standpoint, but two stand out more than others.
First is Jesus Pasos, one of my first fire captains when I was a rookie fire fighter over 33 years ago. He was a legendary firefighter and a great leader. His reputation as a truck captain was stellar, and he is someone I have always strived to emulate. He taught us what it meant to be a great fire fighter and be involved in the community. He continues to be an LAFD chaplain and a deacon in the Catholic church and a national handball champion — things that made him all the more loved and respected by young firefighters like me. He was my confirmation sponsor and godfather for two of my children. We grew particularly close when my father and his son both died approximately 20 years ago. His support and love helped so much in a really tough time in my life.
Since his days as the youngest president ever on the Los Angeles City Council, when I worked with him as a union president, I have continually been inspired by my close friend Alex Padilla, now one of two United States senators representing California in Washington, D.C. Alex is a man committed to his cause like few people I have ever seen before. He is smart, kind and a ferocious fighter for those who cannot fight for themselves, and he does it without ego, while being humble and approachable at the same time. He is the epitome of what a public servant should be — a servant to everyone he represents. I will never forget when, as council president, he reached out to my wife and family to offer his personal assistance for anything that they needed while I was deployed to the World Trade Center attack in New York City as part of the FEMA California Urban Search and Rescue Team on Sept. 11, 2001. It is those seemingly small outreaches that make him not only a special leader, but a great man.
What’s next?
There are so many projects I am working on, as I represent over 361,000 professional fire fighters across the U.S. and Canada as the general secretary-treasurer of the International Association of Fire Fighters. It all stems from my unwavering commitment to helping working people and improving the odds in middle class that every family can live the American dream. I am also passionate about standing up for the United Farm Workers and Hotel Workers (HERE) and defending some of the hardest working, yet most exploited workers in America. Next for me is to never miss an opportunity to support and bring a louder voice to all the hard workers out there, whether they are picking vegetables on the farms to feed us, cleaning hotel rooms, riding fire trucks, stocking milk in our grocery stores, taking blood pressures, teaching our children, building our infrastructure, or keeping our streets safe (to name a few) and generally bust their butts every day for others.
Lawerence Longo, Food Entrepreneur
Credit: The Collective You
Which projects or accomplishments are you most proud of?
Opening Prince St. Pizza in L.A. during COVID taught me resilience and the power of community. Reviving the iconic Irv’s Burgers was a chance to preserve a piece of the city’s history while navigating the challenges of running a business here. Launching Bar Next Door and now Hall Pass has let me keep pushing boundaries and creating spaces that bring people together. What I’m most proud of is building places that not only serve great food, but also become part of Los Angeles culture.
What’s next?
Right now, I’m producing a YouTube series I created called Delivering Happiness, starring Nick Turturro. It’s a mockumentary-style short-form series about finding joy in unexpected places. Nick, a veteran actor and lovable underdog, goes back to his roots delivering pizza for Prince St. — but every delivery turns into an unscripted moment of connection. Through comedy, vulnerability and heart, each episode transforms a simple drop-off into a story about friendship, truth and purpose. Next up, I’m expanding on a global scale by opening 12 new restaurants in the next 12 months.
Frank McCourt, Civic Entrepreneur and Former Dodgers Owner
Credit: Courtesy Frank McCourt
Which projects or accomplishments are you most proud of?
I’ve spent the last decade tackling what I believe is one of the most urgent challenges of our time: the societal and personal harms created by the current design of the internet. Project Liberty, an organization I founded over six years ago, is developing solutions that put people — not platforms— back in control.
Which men in L.A. have inspired you?
During my time with the Dodgers, I had the immense pleasure of working with the iconic Vin Scully, and we maintained a friendship up until his passing. Like so many Angelenos, I was deeply inspired by his commitment to the Dodgers and belief in the power of sports to uplift and unite people
What’s next?
I’m excited about the impactful projects McCourt Partners is spearheading here in Los Angeles. Our partnership with Homeboy Industries helps support a landmark fundraising campaign focused on their campus expansion and the growth of Hope Village.
Enrique Melendez, Stylist
Credit: Ben Cope
Which projects or accomplishments are you most proud of?
I’m super blessed to be just doing what I love with people that I love and to still have a career I can support myself with. Recently, I just closed out styling an international press tour with Jenna Ortega for her Wednesday season 2 run. So many looks I loved, and I couldn’t even pick my favorite.
Which men in L.A. have inspired you?
My best friend Reginald Haywood is a constant line of support and his work ethic in the corporate world keeps me going. Larry Sim’s, an amazing hairstylist and dear friend who is so talented, also makes time to live his best life.
What are you currently working on and what’s next for you?
I have a number of award season clients that I’ll be creating and collaborating with on looks. I’m super excited about it.
Floyd Norman, Animator
Credit: Adrienne Brown Norman
Which projects or accomplishments are you most proud of?
Looking back over a long career, I truly enjoyed my time at the Walt Disney studios, especially having the opportunity to work with the old man himself on his last feature film, The Jungle Book, back in 1966. I always enjoy the creative process. One of the things we learned while I was working on Sesame Street was how quickly children could absorb information no matter how fast we threw it at them. Kids are fast learners, and I didn’t learn how fast until I worked on that show.
Which men in L.A. have inspired you?
There’s no doubt about it. Walt Disney truly inspired me. Many years later, I was working for Pixar and Steve Jobs had many questions about Walt Disney. He was really curious about Disney, the man, as a visionary leader. I often tell friends if Steve had lived, we might have seen him as CEO of the Walt Disney Company. One of my heroes was Sterling Holloway, whose voice I heard as a child when my mommy took me to see Dumbo. Many years later, I ended up on the recording stage with the very same actor. The fact that we can all work together and make these fun movies that entertain millions of people is enjoyable. It’s good work.
Jason Oppenheim, Reality TV Star and Real Estate Firm Owner
Credit: Courtesy The Oppenheim Group
Which projects or accomplishments are you most proud of?
As most people know, Los Angeles was hit by some of the most destructive fires in its history. I’m especially proud of the work that we did at The Oppenheim Group during that time. My office hosted a donation drive to collect clothing and supplies for displaced families, and we did nearly 100 interviews calling out landlords who were price-gouging fire victims. We also spent several months after the fires working to help displaced families find new homes free of charge. In addition, we donated $100,000 to the Los Angeles Fire Department and Los Angeles Police Department to help highlight their incredible efforts and the urgent need for continued funding. We also donated more than $50,000 to Foodonfoot.org, an organization where I have volunteered for more than 15 years, placing homeless people throughout L.A. into apartments and jobs.
Which men in L.A. have inspired you?
Although I never met him, my great grandfather Jacob Stern has been one of the greatest inspirations to me among men in Los Angeles. He founded The Stern Realty Co. in 1889—what is now The Oppenheim Group—and helped shape the city’s real estate and cultural landscape. Long before Hollywood became a global symbol of entertainment, Jacob had the vision to invest and build there, developing his own residence at Hollywood and Vine, which would later become one of the most famous intersections in the world. His entrepreneurial foresight not only contributed to the city’s architectural growth but also to its cultural foundation—leasing his horse barn to Cecil B. DeMille, Jesse Lasky and Samuel Goldwyn, which became Hollywood’s first movie studio and the birthplace of Paramount Pictures. That single decision helped ignite an industry that would define Los Angeles for generations.
What are you currently working on and what’s next for you?
Over the past five years, I opened both my Orange County and San Diego offices, and they’ve been absolutely thriving. While Los Angeles will always be home, I’m planning to spend more time working out of the Newport Beach office. I’ve really come to appreciate the safe environment and energy down there and have many agents and friends who make it feel like a second home.
Harley Pasternak, Personal Trainer and Author
Credit: Courtesy Vuori
Which projects or accomplishments are you most proud of?
Aside from my family? I would say it’s a tie between my latest book, The Carb Reset, the gym I designed at The Four Seasons Hualalai and the Four Seasons Naples and my academic appointments at the University of Toronto.
Which men in L.A. have inspired you?
As a foreign transplant to Los Angeles, most of my inspirations came from other cities. But I would have to add my old friend Gunner Petersen, who gave me the idea about turning a residential property into a high-end private training space; my old client Will Ferrell, who is probably the first person I’ve ever seen loved by everyone in the world; and my friend Paul White, who taught me so much about real estate and hospitality.
What are you currently working on and what’s next for you?
I’m very excited about my new VUORI partnership. We just built the VUORI studio by Harley Pasternak in Los Angeles, the most exclusive and special private fitness and recovery space in the world.
We are also in the middle of 65 new Gym by Harley Design projects around the globe, and I just started working on a new book about all the things I’ve learned working with the most successful people in the world over the last four decades.
Spencer Pratt, TV and Social Media Personality
Credit: Jon Premosch
Which projects or accomplishments are you most proud of?
Besides being a dad, definitely helping with the congressional investigation into the Palisades fire.
Which men in L.A. have inspired you?
My dad, “Skipper,” has worked hard as a dentist my entire life for his family.
What are you currently working on and what’s next for you?
Right now, I am focused on a documentary that uncovers the truth about the criminal negligence that caused the Palisades fire.
Ben Shenassafar, Restaurateur, The Hundreds Streetwear Brand Co-founder
Credit: Nick Johnson
Which projects or accomplishments are you most proud of?
Over the past 20+ years, I’ve been very lucky to work on many great projects, but the ones I’m most proud of are The Hundreds, Family Style Food Festival, The Benjamin Hollywood and Bar Benjamin. All of them are projects that I have poured my soul into and started from the ground up with my respective partners. I’ll also just mention that raising three kids in L.A. is a huge accomplishment and something I’m also very proud of!
Which men in L.A. have inspired you?
There are plenty of inspirational people in L.A. and I’m lucky to call some of them my good friends. Bobby Kim, a.k.a. Bobby Hundreds, has been a huge inspiration to me over the past 20 years. Bobby is one of the most creative minds I’ve ever met. He inspires me daily to think outside the box and push boundaries. He’s constantly pushing me to draw outside the lines. Mike Amiri, who has been a friend of mine for 40 years, is another big inspiration in my life. He’s like family to me. He is the hardest working person I know, and to watch what he’s accomplished with his brand just shows me that dreams do come true. Mike inspires me daily to be a better businessman and build a better brand. Lastly, my friends Jon Shook, Vinny Dotolo and Evan Funke. I’ve watched them build empires in hospitality over the past 10 years and now that I’ve entered their world, I look to them regularly to build the best restaurant and bar that I can.
What are you currently working on and what’s next for you?
I’m currently working on The Hundreds 2026 and 2027 plans. Fashion is changing faster than ever, and we have to balance staying ahead and keeping up with the current trends. I’m working with the team to design future collections, branding and sales strategies. I’m working at making The Benjamin Hollywood and Bar Benjamin better every single day. We opened our doors just over a year ago and we have a lot of work to do. Our goal is to build a restaurant and bar that will outlive us all! You can find me on the corner of Melrose and Formosa most nights for the foreseeable future.
JD Slajchert, Writer
Credit: Courtesy JD Slajchert
Which projects or accomplishments are you most proud of?
I’m very proud of the titles I’ve written and projects I’ve created, sending them all out into the world, but I think I’m most proud of the way I’ve been able to stand tall and hopefully inspire those in our community during times of true, genuine need. Following the COVID pandemic, I had the opportunity to travel the country, speaking about teenage anxiety and mental health as I sought out opportunities to inspire those young adults most impacted. And after our family lost our restaurant, Moonshadows, in the Palisades fire, I had the chance to share the inspiration and heartbeat of our beloved eatery with the world to help raise funds for our displaced staff. I really feel that we reveal our true character during times of need, and I’m proud of the strength I’ve been able to manufacture to help our community meet these adversities and promise to only continue doing so moving forward. It’s only made me feel closer to all our neighbors.
Which men in L.A. have inspired you?
It’s hard for me to single out one individual, or even several individuals for that matter, that have served as my inspiration when so many Angelenos have presented such a persistent sense of passion in my life. I’d honestly like to say that my biggest source of inspiration has come from the broader display of resilience proven day in and day out by the countless number of individuals impacted not just by the Palisades Fire as I previously mentioned, but also our neighbors close by in Altadena touched by disaster in the Easton fire. The resilience and strength displayed by all of the members of our community throughout these recent tragedies has continued to remain a constant source of motivation for me to push on, and I’m so proud to be beside so many of these brave survivors in the fight to help rebuild our city. They inspire me every single day.
What are you currently working on and what’s next for you?
Presently, I’m incredibly excited to be preparing for my upcoming TEDx Talk at TEDxUnityPark in Greenville, South Carolina. I adore that place. The talk will be largely about my story, overcoming the adversities life throws at us and, more specifically, how different parts of my story have impacted my writing process and creative style. It’s really a dream come true to be taking the famed TED stage so soon. And, I also can’t say too much about it at this time, but I can share that I’m in talks regarding a documentary about me and my story. I’m very excited to hopefully be able to share more about that soon.
Owen Thiele, Actor and Podcaster
Credit: Lucy Sandler
Which projects or accomplishments are you most proud of?
Right now, I’m so proud to be a part of two shows that explore queerness and queer friendship in 2025. They’re both important stories and I’m so honored to be even a little part of each.
Which men in L.A. have served as inspirations to you?
My dad, Bob Thiele Jr., and my grandfather, Jay Kanter. I’m constantly inspired by them. They taught me to always lead with love and stop to appreciate the small wins.
What are you currently working on and what’s next for you?
I’m developing a show right now with Amazon based on my own life story— being Black, gay and adopted into a white, Jewish family in L.A. Every day, I’m hoping we hear good news on that.
Eric Vetro, Vocal Coach
Credit: Ken Sawyer
Which projects or accomplishments are you most proud of?
I would say the movies that are about to be released — Wicked: For Good with Ariana Grande and Jonathan Bailey and Springsteen: Deliver Me From Nowhere with Jeremy Allen White, who is portraying Bruce Springsteen — come to mind first. But because I’ve worked on over 40 musical movies and 55-plus Broadway shows, it’s difficult to answer by just mentioning two! I’m also very proud of my work with countless recording artists through the years, including ones who are currently at the very top of the music charts, such as Sabrina Carpenter, Alex Warren, Rosé (BlackPink), Audrey Nuna (KPop Demon Hunters), Katseye, Addison Rae and Benson Boone. In addition, I’d have to mention my singing course that I did for BBC Maestro last year, which helps professional and aspiring singers alike to hone their craft. It’s been incredibly gratifying to be recognized and stopped by strangers who tell me how helpful the course has been for them!
Which men in L.A. have inspired you?
That list is quite long! John Legend, Timothee Chalamet, Ryan Gosling, Shawn Mendes, Austin Butler, Charlie Puth, John Stamos, Will Ferrell and Hugh Jackman (all ironically younger than me) have all inspired me with their talent, creativity and strong work ethic, as well as songwriters and producers, such as Max Martin, Savan Kotecha and Greg Wells, as well as directors like Damien Chazelle, Pablo Larrain and James Mangold. There are too many to name here, but I can assure you that I have learned and been tremendously inspired by all of them!
What are you currently working on and what’s next for you?
Currently I’m working with some fantastic actors who will be singing in several new movies, including Millie Bobby Brown (for Just Picture It), Daisy Edgar-Jones (Here Comes The Flood), Melissa McCarthy (Margie Claus) and David Jonsson, who will be playing Sammy Davis Jr. in a film entitled Scandalous co-starring Sydney Sweeney. In addition, I’m also quite busy with my students, such as Rosalía, Camila Cabello, Ava Max, Conan Gray, Natalia Lafourcade, Omar Apollo, Sofia Carson, Becky G, Sebastian Yatra, Dominic Fike, and many others. It’s a lot to juggle, but I love all of them, so it doesn’t feel like work. I’m so grateful to have them in my life, they truly fill me with energy and joy!
Jonathan Tucker, Actor
Credit: Matty Gerety
Which projects or accomplishments are you most proud of?
Kingdom because it gave us forty episodes to excavate a world — mixed martial arts — that had never really been rendered with honesty on screen. I’m equally proud of a business I built on the East Coast with a remarkable group of people. It’s proof that you can construct something lasting outside the usual power corridors. But above all: my family — my wife, Tara, our twins, India and Hayes, and our two dogs, Mori and Rothko. That’s the true center of gravity.
Which men in L.A. have inspired you?
Magic Johnson, who turned brilliance on the court into resilience and reinvention off of it. Peter Guber, who has always understood that entertainment is as much about risk as it is about story. Quentin Tarantino, whose films feel like dispatches from the city’s subconscious. Eli Broad, who bet on culture as infrastructure. Raymond Chandler, who caught the shadows behind the sunshine. And Tom Bradley, whose steady hand helped hold the city together during times of profound change.
What are you currently working on and what’s next for you?
I’m heading into production on a limited series for MGM+ called American Hostage, alongside Jon Hamm and Giovanni Ribisi. Just finished commuting to Toronto over four months for Harlan Coben’s Netflix limited series I Will Find You. Parallel to acting, I’m adding as much value as I can to a number of businesses and ventures: Sespe Creek Distillery in Ventura, for instance, and some ongoing work with the International Brotherhood of Teamsters pension funds.
Kyren Williams, L.A. Rams Running Back
Credit: Los Angeles Rams/ Brooke Sutton/NFL
Which projects or accomplishments are you most proud of?
My biggest accomplishment to this day is achieving my dream of becoming an NFL player. I have worked my whole life to be where I am right now. From the age of five—when I told my mom for the first time that I wanted to be in the NFL after seeing Rams running back, and now Rams Legend Steven Jackson that’s been my dream. And that’s been what I’ve been working for ever since.
Through the good, the bad, and the different, I kept my mind focused on what was most important: the Lord and the blessings He’s given me to be in this position. I stuck with it through everything that could have knocked me down, and it’s made me stronger—it’s made me the man I am today.
Which men in L.A. have inspired you?
Andrew Whitworth — I don’t know him personally, but I admire the kind of person he is and how he continues to give back to the community despite his success. To be someone who puts others first, even after football, that’s something I really look up to.
I’d also say a lot of the coaches here with the Rams inspire me. They represent the kind of person I want to be—someone who truly cares about the people they work with and the people around them. Coach McVay is a great example of that.
And then there are people like Johnathan Franklin, our director of social justice and football development. He’s always out in the community, always serving and giving back—that really inspires me. While she’s not a man, I have to include Molly Higgins, our EVP of community impact and engagement. She came from St. Louis with the Rams and has continued her work here in L.A. She cares so much about people — not just the players, but everyone outside of football too. She’s created so many opportunities for us as players to give back and connect with the community that supports us.
What’s next?
I’m currently working on starting my own nonprofit organization — something that allows me to impact, inspire and motivate young kids not just in L.A. and St. Louis, but all over the world. I want them to know they can accomplish their dreams, that anything is possible no matter their situation, where they come from or where they’re at.
Like I previously mentioned, the first time I saw Steven Jackson was the moment I realized my dreams could actually come true, and now I want to be that person for the next generation. That’s what drives me—continuing to be myself, staying true to who I am, and inspiring young kids to chase their dreams.