It's a Guy Thing

Susan Hoff is Chasing her Dreams

Susan Hoff / @oathandgrind

Photographer Sarah Lyons Glabman

Epicdestinationshoot / @picturegroove

Hair & Makeup Lisa Opie / @lisa_Opie

Wardrobe Styling Joey Rolon / @joeyrolon


Who is Susan Hoff? Our cover model this month carries many monikers and depending on where she is in the world, there is always a fitting title for her presence. She’s the Proprietress in the vineyards, the founder of a multi-million dollar non-profit, the entrepreneur behind the new business, the pro fitness competitor on stage, the winning beauty queen in the pageant, the Mardi Gras Queen in New Orleans, the model in front of the camera, the Mom in the kitchen, and lately the influencer on-line. In the bustling corridors of corporate America, where ambition meets success, Susan Hoff carved a niche for herself that resonated with power and determination. Her journey began in the high-stakes world of Best Buy’s growth years from the early 80s into its Fortune 500 era, illustrating her relentless determination and captivating prowess when challenged. To our FHM readers, Susan is not just a figure of corporate success; she is the embodiment of a dream that transcends the conventional. Her transition from the structured precision of boardroom strategies to the sun-drenched vineyards of Napa Valley is a daring tale of calculated risks illustrating the testament to enabling one’s passions. This bold shift in her career was not just a change in her profession; it was embracing a lifestyle that married business acumen with sensual delight. Susan’s foray into the wine industry is a story of risk and transformation, where the allure of the vines met the sharp intellect of a seasoned businesswoman. She did what those who desire to do, but just can’t make the leap. It’s a journey that may inspire you to take a risk, a tale of a woman who is as alluring on paper as she is in your presence. For this FHM edition, Susan was photographed at an exclusive location in Miami Beach, Florida. This vibrant city, known for its pulsating energy and scenic beauty, perfectly complemented Susan’s dynamic persona. From the glint of determination in her eyes to the confident poise of her stance, every aspect of the shoot highlights Susan’s physical appeal and the seductive power built from her ambition and success. This feature is more than just a photo spread it’s a vivid portrayal of a woman who embodies the true essence of sexiness – a blend of mind, body, and an unquenchable thirst for life’s finest experiences. In the heart of Napa Valley, where the azure sky dips into the mountains, lies Fantesca Estate and Winery, a testament to Susan Hoff’s unparalleled sophistication and entrepreneurial spirit. This venture is not simply a winery it’s a canvas where Susan’s passion for wine, the environment, and creating a memorable tasting experience reflects her intoxicating persona. She brings a touch of glamour to the rustic charm of winemaking, turning Fantesca into Napa Valley’s hidden gem of luxury and allure. This is where Susan’s prowess shines brightest, a place that mirrors her own transformation journey – from a powerhouse in the corporate world to a trendsetter in the wine industry. Susan’s fitness journey also resonates with a deep, magnetic pull. Her well-defined muscles dance under her skin like waves of strength, each curve a testament to her disciplined regimen. In the gym, she’s a force to be reckoned with – her presence is both commanding and inspiring, a siren call to those who admire a woman whose beauty is matched by her strength of character. Her workouts are not just daily routines; they are performances by a woman deeply in love with the capabilities of her own body, a celebration of what it means to be fiercely, unapologetically alive. Susan just might be the epitome of desirability – a woman whose allure is magnified by her physical prowess and unwavering dedication to self-improvement. For Susan, setting trends is not just about being at the forefront but crafting a legacy that intertwines strength, sophistication, and the unquenchable fire of female empowerment. Susan’s aspirations are deeply rooted in her desire to redefine what it means to be successful, sexy, and empowered. Her latest ventures into the world of fashion modeling and her commitment to wellness are facets of a life lived unapologetically and on her terms “To me, trendsetting is about being fearless in your passionate pursuit of excellence” Susan reflects “It’s about inspiring others not just through words – but through action. Being sexy and successful are not mutually exclusive; rather, they create the ingredients for a life well lived” Susan’s recognition extends beyond glossy pages of magazines. Her ventures, be they in winemaking, fitness, or modeling, are followed with keen interest as she continues to break new ground and set trends. Susan’s future endeavors are lined with the promise of continued innovation and inspiration. Her plans to expand her winery, as well as her ambition to launch an international wine brand, speak volumes of her entrepreneurial spirit. These continued ventures are reflections of a constantly evolving woman, never content with resting on her laurels. As the chapters of Susan Hoff’s extraordinary life unfold, her legacy emerges as a compelling blend of resilience, passion, and undeniable allure; it lies in how she has lived her life – with a boldness and a zest that is both rare and exhilarating. In this issue of FHM, her work with renowned photographer Sarah Lyons Glabman and the stunning visuals they have created together showcase Susan as a “goddess” in her own right – a woman whose every photograph is a testament to her confidence, beauty, and ability to inspire. These images are more than just pictures; they are symbols of a woman who has embraced her sexuality with pride and who has lived her life on her terms. Susan is a powerful reminder that the most alluring qualities of a woman lie in her ability to pursue her dreams, to stand strong in the face of challenges, and to carve out a path that is uniquely her own. We thought you might enjoy an opportunity to get to know her behind the scenes of this photo spread, so we’re giving you a glimpse into her vast background while sharing some of her personal preferences through our recent interview.

Tell us about the moment you found out you would be featured in the magazine. What was your initial reaction? I’m honored to be featured as FHM’s February cover model. When the photographer called me to tell me, I was speechless. This is such an iconic men’s magazine. Started in the UK, it dates back to the 1980s when I was in college and all the fraternity men were into it. To be selected as THE cover model in the USA edition is such a privilege. I’m still pinching myself.

Can you share your favorite shot or spread from the magazine and why it holds special significance for you? It’s gotta be the one in the black Versace one-piece… the sun was directly in my eyes, it was over 105 degrees and the slight breeze kept blowing my hair into my face – I was shocked that any of the images turned out much less were submitted for publication. Both the photographer and the MUA were so excited with them. Just goes to show what good teamwork can get you.

When you’re not working, what helps you decompress and relax? A fantastic glass of wine presented with a kiss.

What’s the strangest fan encounter you’ve ever had? My adult children were taking me out for Mother’s Day dinner in San Francisco. The entrance is through a little alleyway off a prominent street. While we were entering, a tall man leaving the restaurant with his over-served girlfriend started staring at me. I smile at the two, but keep walking with my family as the maitred’ waves us into the restaurant. The man circles back to approach me and says, “Aren’t you Susan Hoff?” I had no idea who he was as he towered so uncomfortably close to me that my son-in-law, a former star UCLA linebacker, who also became concerned, stepped in and demanded to know who he was. The man stepped back, introduced himself and said he followed me on Instagram and was a fan of my workouts and nutrition advice. I took a breath, acknowledged that I was indeed Susan Hoff and thanked him for going out of his way to introduce himself… much to his girlfriend’s chagrin. Honestly, at this point in my life, one never knows who or where you’ll run into former business colleagues and now with social media it’s even fans.

What’s the best “wardrobe malfunction” story that you can now laugh about? To date, I’m happy to report that I haven’t had a wardrobe malfunction, but I have had a few instances of wardrobe changes behind a large light umbrella on a beach at sunrise, in a tree-lined park and on the side streets of London when someone strolls up to ask the grip for directions to somewhere. I guess when people see a photographer, a grip and a model, onlookers become interested in what’s happening and want to know who you are. It doesn’t rattle me anymore, once I just peeked out and answered the question myself.

What are some of your biggest dreams you hope to achieve? A loving, healthy, long life to enjoy all the endeavors ahead of me. At this point, I’m pleased with my career accomplishments. Not many at my age can say they’ve been an executive officer at a Fortune 500 company (NYSE: BBY), founded a long-standing non-profit organization (The Best Buy Foundation) that enables teens all over the USA to practice their tech prowess, co-founded an iconic Napa Valley winery (Fantesca.com), earned her WBFF Fitness Pro card on the World’s stage (2015), was selected Mardi Gras Queen LXXXIV for the Krewe of Mid-City in New Orleans (2017), won Mrs. North America Classique in the Mrs. Globe Pageant (2019), and I have a loving family that supports my traveling lifestyle to enjoy all sorts of new opportunities.

What can be better than this? Being a cover model is “the icing on the cake” and a beginning to the new chapters I’ve yet to write in the back half of my life.

What’s the weirdest beauty tip or trick you’ve picked up? Believe it or not, when facial blotting paper isn’t available, the silly tissue toilet seat covers in airports work beautifully.

If you were stranded on a deserted island with only one accessory, what would it be? My iPhone. It plays music, can give me survival shelter tips and hopefully keep me calm and alive until someone can locate me by satellite before it dies. Isn’t modern tech great.

What’s your go-to guilty pleasure snack? That iconic little red box of animal crackers.

What is the absolute worst thing a man can do to completely put you off? If he has no manners, game over! I’m big on chivalry. It’s the price of admission.

What advice would you give to aspiring models? Never say never! Keep posing, ask questions and meet new photographers. The practice adds up and the experience will open new doors for you. In fact, it works for all professions.

Thanks for taking the time to speak to us, do you have any last words for our readers? Thank you for the opportunity to be featured in your magazine and reach your readers. If they’d

like to keep up with my travels, my fitness and nutrition tips and upcoming photo shoots you can find me on IG @OathandGrind or FB Oath and Grind by Susan Hoff or on the web at linktr.ee/SusanHoff or OathandGrind.com.