Hairbrained Conversations

Aristotle once said, "The more you know, the more you realize you don't know." Ben Brown (@benbrownhair) had this epiphany when a student asked him why he was doing a technique in a certain way, and he realized he didn't actually know. So the left-handed hairdresser made it his mission to master his craft by becoming the ultimate student. He began filming his work to learn from his mistakes, and later decided to post them to his Instagram page, which now boasts more than 300k followers. In this episode, Ben reveals how perfecting his craft and showing up authentically as himself led to opportunities he could never have imagined, including being a guest on the Hb Teach In stage and imparting his knowledge with students the world over both in person and online.

With more than two decades in the pro beauty space, not to mention a master's degree in business, Stef Fox (@stef_fox) has had a long and varied career that allows her to simultaneously have an intimate as well as a bird's eye view of the industry. And for the past few years, the founder of Talent Match (@salonrecruiting) has conducted an annual survey, which, with more than 22,000 responses, is not only the largest that we know of, but also delivers valuable data and insights about employment and what hairdressers are looking for. In this episode, she shares five of her top findings, and she also discusses what they mean for salon owners and the hairdressers who work for them.

On the eve of @paulmitchellpro's latest release, the nine-SKU semi-permanent hair color line Colorways, we're joined by Artistic Director for Color @colincaruso and Colorways Brand Ambassador @fernthebarber. Creative color is experiencing a renaissance, and not just in the salon—as a barber, Fern shares how he's seen an uptick in client requests as well. Colin and Fern discuss the line's versatility and creativity and how, just like sneaker brands drop special editions, so too will Colorways release limited edition hues as trends emerge.

Now celebrating the 10th anniversary of his seminal book, "Hair: Fashion and Fantasy," Laurent Philippon is, in his own words, "a hair-thinking war machine." The world-renowned session stylist never stops dreaming about hair, and his passion for the art and craft of hairdressing is unparalleled. Laurent's background and training with both Alexandre de Paris and Julien d'Ys has made his work a truly unique blend of timeless French technique and intuitive organic vision. As such, his work has been featured not only in every significant fashion magazine, but also on the runways of innumerable top fashion houses. This can't-miss episode delves into Laurent's history and thoughts on the craft of hairdressing.

Lupe Voss is known within the #crafthairdresser community as a top-notch educator and colorist. For a lot of her career, she tailored her education around a color line. But with Color Space, she decided it was time to tailor the color around education and color theory. In this episode, she explains what led her to create Color Space, how deeply she embeds with a salon when they decide to take on a color line, and the robust ongoing education that Color Space salons experience.

Hair extensions have come a long way in recent years, and so have expectations surrounding them. These days, knowing proper application techniques, how to color match and blend perfectly, and, quite frankly, the art behind extensions is the norm. We chat with Wade Zylstra (@wadecody), owner of Lux Salon in Fullerton, CA, and Kasandra Grzanka (@kgrzanka), VoMor Hair Extension educator, on everything extensions. From understanding the different types of extensions, how long and what type of training is most beneficial, pricing advice and how to layer on to existing services, Wade and Kasandra explain how you can add benefits to (and increase revenue from) the clients you already have.

One of the most emotionally charged aspects of hairdressing is pricing. Look at almost any hair transformation video on @hairbrained_official, and there's usually a "How much would you charge for this?" question. Fear of losing clients, vague "charge your worth" advice and lack of pricing transparency all play a role. On top of that, hairdressers often emotionally discount, may not have consistent pricing or flat out don't know how to price their services. In this episode, Miki Wright (@mikiwright), pricing strategist and founder of www.beautysuperstars.com, joins us to dispel the confusion around pricing. She shares the best steps to set up a pricing strategy, explains why old-school ways are no longer relevant, and the importance of why creating experiences for your clients plays a huge role in pricing.

For years, the idea that "women of a certain age" would willingly embrace their grays was, let's face it, laughable. But when celebrity colorist Jack Martin (@jackmartincolorist) and his stunning gray transformations came onto the scene, perspectives shifted—not only on what it means to age, but also how important craft hairdressers are in helping their clients through graceful transformations. In this episode, we talk with Jack about his journey from everyday working stylist to international superstar, why it's so important to him that people accept who they are, and how he actually achieves these hours-long transformations with the help of @k18hair.

One of the best aspects of being a pro in the hair industry is the friendships you make along the way. In fact, this idea of community and shared experiences is at the heart of what Hairbrained is all about. And one of the first Hb community members, DJ Muldoon (@danieljosephmuldoon)—a craft hairdresser, global educator and founder of @knowledgedestroysfear—has been a friend of Hb co-founder Gerard Scarpaci since the beginnings of their careers. In this unplugged conversation, they reminisce about the early days working together and discuss the current state of education and the future of our craft.

Chrystal L. has devoted her career to helping all hairdressers reach their full potential and realize their dreams. In 2019, she launched @allhairacademy, a program for stylists who want to attract a diverse clientele and be confident working with any hair texture. In this episode, she shares tons of actionable tips to help you grow your business and profitability. Chrystal shares advice ranging from email marketing, when and how to raise prices, hiring staff, and much more. You will also find out how Chrystal fared at Missouri Startup Weekend, a program that allows participants to pitch their ideas for a chance to win monetary investment and mentorship. And if you want to learn more about Chrystal's passions and advocacy, listen to Episode 229.

What do you do when you hate doing wedding hair? You double down, of course! That is, you do if you're Candace Mansour (@candacemansour), a bridal hair specialist and educator based in the Northeast. Like many, she was intimidated by seemingly complicated updos, and in her own words, "hated bridal hair." But learning and, more importantly, teaching helped Candace build an award-winning, on-location wedding team. Today, Candy Rose Events includes 12 pros who service an average of four weddings every weekend! Learn how Candace started from scratch through marketing and offering clear and simple pricing, and how she effectively communicates with brides to help them feel confident and at ease with her team and services.

Join Gerard as he sits down with Tom Connell (@tommconnell), Hair Art Director for @davinesofficial, for this special episode filmed at the Davines House in Williamsburg, Brooklyn. We go deep into Tom's creative process and his unique way of manifesting original ideas across the spectrum of beauty. Also, Tom offers a sneak peek into what he has planned for Davines Hair On Tour, a multi-city collection inspired by each locale.

With more than two decades of pro beauty experience, Dominique LyVar (@kingdomofcurls_) has had a transformative career: He's worked as a stylist in corporate salons, taught at the Aveda Institute in NY, and even works as a freelance editorial artist. Today he is a ReZo Master Designer and Master Global Educator whose social media following is steadily growing thanks to his celebration of curls. While he believes that doing great work will get you wherever you want to go in this industry, being a Black artist has come with its unique set of challenges. In this episode, he discusses how he has navigated the pro and editorial worlds of hair and offers advice for those wishing to follow in his footsteps.

Traci Sakosits (@tracisak_hair) has devoted her career to uplifting and educating future hairdressers. After spending the last decade coaching students as the North American Creative Director at Sassoon Academy, she is now the VP of Education and Creative for Aveda Arts + Sciences Institutes. We dive deep into a discussion on the current state of education and what makes a great educator. Traci also shares her ongoing mission to not only enhance cosmetology education through innovative curriculum, but to also elevate the perception of cosmetology instructors by showing the industry, and the world, how important they are to hairdressers' success.

Many brands have been known to pivot during their lifetime, but none quite like Olivia Garden (@oliviagarden_int). Established in 1967 by Jean and Micheline Rennette in Belgium, the company began life as a high-quality synthetic wig manufacturer. But as tastes changed, Olivia Garden transitioned to distributor, to education company and finally, as we know them today, a global tool manufacturer. Anne Maza, daughter of Jean and Micheline, shares how she and her brother Pierre as co-owners have continually adapted to the changing needs of the industry. She reveals how all tools are designed with explicit input from a team of hairdressers, and how this approach allows Olivia Garden to continually produce quality tools that solve the challenges hairdressers face every day.

With the brand-new Premiere Anaheim trade show just around the corner, Ed McNeill, SVP of Premiere Show Group, shares his insights into @premierebeautyshows' evolution and the continued importance of trade shows in today's digital age. In this episode, you'll learn how Premiere grew from humble beginnings into one of the most respected and must-attend events of the professional hair industry. In a world where online purchasing continues to rise, Ed delves deep into the ongoing relevance of trade shows, as well as why and how they continue to play an important role in the industry. With new shows debuting in Austin, Texas, and Columbus, Ohio, we also discuss the future of Premiere Shows and how they will cater to the changing needs of the industry.

One of the industry's best educators—not to mention a polished facilitator and presenter—Sonna Brado (@sonnabrado) reinvented her career during the pandemic by creating educational videos that offer value both to hairstylists and clients alike. As a result, Sonna's social media following grew exponentially, which has allowed her to successfully launch a tool brand and online education service. In this episode, she offers insights into her content creation process, and discusses how innate talent and hard work build a successful hairdressing career.

It has long been reported by government and private statistics reports that many, if not most, hairdressers earn less than the poverty level. But because of inconsistencies and confusion in reporting, Tom and Erin Kuhn believed these figures weren't truly representative of hairdressers' salaries, and could be dissuading people from following their passion. In this episode, the Kuhns explain their methodologies and share the their discoveries to paint a much different (and rosier) earning picture for our industry.

A non-conformist filled with ambition since her teens when she found her passion and talent for hair, Janine Jarman has continually strived to do things her way. Janine frankly discusses how being persistent and following her gut has led her on her journey from salon owner to brand ambassador to being awarded "Fan Favorite" on Bravo's Shear Genius in 2010. And when everyone thought she was crazy to launch a perm brand, she refused to listen to the naysayers and launched Curl Cult to wide success. No stranger to difficulty, Janine also delves into the challenges that the pandemic put her through as the owner of Hairroin salons in New York City and Los Angeles.

Not many can claim they went from driving a forklift at Home Depot to becoming one of the industry's most recognizable educators. But this unique origin story befits Fern Andong, better known as @fernthebarber, and his unique approach to hair and education. In this episode, Fern reveals not only his humble beginnings, but also the benefits and challenges of being dual licensed and educating in barbering and cosmetology, as well as what it's like to constantly develop new skills to keep up with the ever-changing demands of social media content creation.

Over the past several years, Jayne Matthews (@jayne_edosalon) has blazed a trail across our industry using social media to share her "carving petals" approach to razor cutting. But her success has been hard earned; she had to overcome many challenges to find her authentic voice and approach to the craft, commerce and culture of hairdressing. Jayne is a vocal advocate for non-toxic salon environments and has a unique perspective on teaching clients how to cut their own hair. During the pandemic, she pioneered digital education that helped clients to care for their own hair and shared her approach with many stylists who otherwise would have been without an income during that time.

One wouldn't think that being an introvert would actually help a hairdresser become a celebrity stylist. But that's just what happened to Ryan Richman (@ryanrichman), who was recently named an @aveda ambassador. Ryan's incredible roster of star clients reads like a Young Hollywood It List: Sarah Hyland, Sadie Sink, Kate Mara, Sophie Turner, Maisie Williams and more. In this episode, you'll learn how he broke into this area of our industry, how he developed the necessary skills and how being naturally introverted has helped him succeed.

Meet the "fantastic four" founders of @igkhair: @franckhair, @chasehair, @aarongreniahair and @leohairofficial. Together they have built a salon brand and product line that is redefining the next generation of pro beauty. With salon locations in NYC and Miami, they keep their finger on the pulse of creativity and funnel all they learn into an innovative range of products. Learn how they manage a complex partnership, deal with everyday challenges and communicate as a group working to achieve a singular vision. ALL NEW - Find the podcast video on YouTube!

Humor with a down-to-earth attitude and top-notch hairdressing and educating skills—that's what @jacobhkhan is known for. In this episode, we dive deep with the @goldwellus Ambassador and his frequent co-creator and fellow craft hairdresser, Ben White. (Spoiler: Jacob makes a big announcement about the state of their friendship.) The pair talk about their backgrounds as well as the influences that shaped their approach to the craft, social media and comedy. And of course there's loads of funny stories—you don't want to miss the one about Jacob drinking cow urine from India for its "health benefits."

You know when two of the industry's sharpest minds come together, it's going to be a good podcast! Robert Cromeans (@robertcromeans), Global Artistic and Business Director for @paulmitchell, and Antony Whitaker, founder of @growmysalonbuisness, volley back and forth about marketing yourself as a hairdresser; whether the frequency of appointments will ever come back (and if there is anything we can do about it); whether the established salon business model works any longer; and much, much more in this enthralling idea exchange.

Episode #274: Greg and Joanne Starkman, Innersense Organic Beauty Founders Seasoned beauty pros and founders of @innersenseorganicbeauty Greg and Joanne Starkman share their deeply intertwined personal and brand story. After the birth of their special needs child, Morgan, the Starkmans realized how important it is to be aware of the chemicals we use every day as hairdressers. They set out on a mission to create a pro line of haircare products that would be non-toxic, clean and organic-based. Greg and Joanne share the many lessons learned in the nearly 20 years since then, which set them up for Innersense's current explosion of success, all while staying true to their core principles of personal well-being and care for our planet. ALL NEW - Find the podcast video on YouTube!

We're kicking off 2023 with a very special guest: longtime Hairbrained friend, Reuben Carranza. One of the most successful and prolific C-suite leaders in pro beauty, Reuben is currently CEO for Amika and Eva NYC. In this episode, he shares the many lessons learned growing up with a hairdresser mom, as well as practical advice that hairdressers need to consider for the year ahead. On a personal note, co-founder and host Gerard Scarpaci gets a chance to thank Reuben for his early support of Hb, which allowed us to grow to where we are today. All-New! Find the podcast/video on our YouTube page!

Erica Lee Moomey is a St. Louis-based master haircutter, session stylist and @lorealpro_education_us national educator. As stated in her online biography, Erica is "a force to be reckoned with"—and we wholeheartedly agree. She's not only a regular behind the scenes at New York Fashion Week, but she's also a three-time Midwest Hairstyling Awards Hairdresser of the Year winner. The story of her journey to realizing her true self—and having the courage to be the best version of who she truly is as an artist, professional and human—is an inspiration. boosts#toggleFormOnEscOrEnter" data-boosts-adding-class="boosts--adding" data-boosts-deleting-class="boost--deleting">

In the sixth and final episode of our @SalonCentric-supported series on building your business and career, Daniel Mason-Jones (@danielmasonjones) discusses how to have a long and successful career. Be sure to check out past episodes on goal setting; knowing and using your numbers to help set your prices and schedule in a way that supports your goals; the importance of great and consistent consultations; the power behind product recommendations and retail; and how to have a success-oriented mindset. Special thanks to SalonCentric (#ittakesapro) for their support in creating this important series.

A longtime friend of Hairbrained, Cory Couts' resume includes successful salon owner, renowned business coach, highly respected pro beauty executive, true innovator in the hairdressing industry's early days of digital and social media—and now SVP of Global Professional Sales for @olaplex. Cory helps connect the dots between the times we're in and, in that context, the longstanding practices that drive success in our industry. boosts#toggleFormOnEscOrEnter" data-boosts-adding-class="boosts--adding" data-boosts-deleting-class="boost--deleting">

London-based Brandon Messinger is an award-winning stylist, internationally published artist and educator, working #crafthairdresser and passionate perfectionist in his thinking about hair. The @DenmanPro Ambassador shares the truly one-of-a-kind story behind his career and intense passion for the craft in a way that makes this one of our favorite episodes to date. boosts#toggleFormOnEscOrEnter" data-boosts-adding-class="boosts--adding" data-boosts-deleting-class="boost--deleting">

In the fifth episode of our @SalonCentric-supported six-part series on building your business and career, Daniel Mason-Jones (@danielmasonjones) talks about how to have a success-oriented mindset. Be sure to check out past episodes on goal setting; knowing and using your numbers to help set your prices and schedule in a way that supports your goals; the importance of great and consistent consultations; and the power behind product recommendations and retail. Stay tuned for our upcoming final episode in this series: How to have a long and successful career. Special thanks to SalonCentric (#ittakesapro) for their support in creating this important series.

In this wide-ranging conversation, @redken icon and @saloncentric ambassador Sam Villa talks about today's salon experience; his evolving life priorities coming out of the pandemic; and the continued power of the hairdresser to transform lives—not just for their clients, but also for themselves. boosts#toggleFormOnEscOrEnter" data-boosts-adding-class="boosts--adding" data-boosts-deleting-class="boost--deleting">

In the fourth episode of our @SalonCentric-supported six-part series on building your business and career, Daniel Mason-Jones (@danielmasonjones) talks about the importance of great and consistent consultations and the power behind product recommendations and retail. In future episodes, we talk about how to have a success-oriented mindset; and what's the path to a long and successful career. Be sure to check out past episodes on goal setting; knowing and using your numbers; and setting your prices and schedule in a way that supports your goals. Special thanks to SalonCentric (#ittakesapro) for their support in creating this important series.

@TheSimonEllis is a long-time #crafthhairdresser AND the International Creative Director of Schwarzkopf Professional. With over 40 years of industry experience, starting with two decades with the Vidal Sassoon organization, he is an absolute wealth of knowledge and wisdom. From my first introduction to Simon, I was taken by his great passion and intellect. His YouTube series, The Simon Ellis Master Classes, is the foundation of much of our talk today. The series includes 10 must-view short-form videos that lay out a blueprint for success in our industry. Not to be missed! boosts#toggleFormOnEscOrEnter" data-boosts-adding-class="boosts--adding" data-boosts-deleting-class="boost--deleting">

Jessica Scott Santo is not only a Moroccanoil Global Color Ambassador and educator, but she's also a working salon owner and colorist—not to mention a mom to three "very active" boys. In this episode, she shares her unique perspective on building a great career (and life!); finding your own version of balance as your career evolves and grows; and of course why Moroccanoil is the perfect fit for Jessica and her passion for hair, hair color and her fellow professionals.

In the third episode of our @SalonCentric-supported six-part series on building your business and career, Daniel Mason-Jones (@danielmasonjones) talks about the importance of setting your prices and schedule in a way that supports your goals. In future episodes, we talk about the power of great consultations and retail recommendations; how to have a success-oriented mindset; and taking steps to ensure a long and successful career. Be sure to check out past episodes on goal setting and knowing your numbers. Special thanks to SalonCentric (#ittakesapro) for their support in creating this important series.

A celebrity stylist and L'Oréal Professional ambassador/educator, @DerickMonroe is best known for his five-time Emmy-nominated work as a longtime stylist for The View co-hosts Whoopi Goldberg and Sara Haines. Derick shares his unique professional journey from small-town working professional to The View, some of the many important lessons learned along the way, and his thoughts on what it REALLY takes to be a celebrity stylist. boosts#toggleFormOnEscOrEnter" data-boosts-adding-class="boosts--adding" data-boosts-deleting-class="boost--deleting">

In the second episode of our SalonCentric-supported six-part series on building your business and career, Daniel Mason-Jones (@danielmasonjones) talks about how and why paying attention to numbers can grow your business and career. In future episodes, we talk about the importance of setting your prices and schedule; the power of great consultations and retail recommendations; how to have a success-oriented mindset; and how to create a long, successful career. Also be sure to go back and listen to Part 1 on the power of goal setting - a great blueprint for creating a plan to map out your career. Special thanks to SalonCentric (#ittakesapro) for their support in creating this series.

In our inaugural episode of this SalonCentric-supported six-part series on building your business and career, Daniel Mason-Jones (@danielmasonjones) talks about the power of goal setting, providing a great blueprint for creating a plan to map out your career. In future episodes, we talk about how and why paying attention to numbers can grow your business and career; the importance of setting your prices and schedule; the power of great consultations and retail recommendations; how to have a success-oriented mindset; and, last but not least, how to create a long, successful career. Special thanks to SalonCentric (#itteakesapro) for their support in creating this series.

Nikki Durbin (@kentucky.curls) is salon owner and working pro at Betties Hair Salon in Brandenburg, Kentucky – as well as an educator and texture specialist for @lanzahaircare. We love this frank, honest conversation with a working "small town" professional, who successfully graduated from commissioned stylist to salon owner and curl specialist serving a diverse client population. Nikki has since expanded her career repertoire by stepping into the role of educator and platform artist for L'ANZA Healing Haircare. boosts#toggleFormOnEscOrEnter" data-boosts-adding-class="boosts--adding" data-boosts-deleting-class="boost--deleting">

@PaulMitchellPro Artistic Directors Paula Peralta and Stephen Moody join us in a far ranging discussion around past and present hair trends, where our professional world is headed, and a conversation on how the evolution and reimagination of texture services can drive revenue. Both Paula and Stephen are returning guests, so for more please check out episode #137 with Paula on #BlackLivesMatter and its impact on the industry, and episode #19 to hear the story behind Stephen's iconic career.

An immigrant of Cuban descent, Leysa Carrillo traveled the world as a child prodigy in dance before discovering her passion for all things hair—and the potential of a life in the professional salon industry. Known throughout the industry as an early influencer and artist with a huge passion for both texture and hair color, today Leysa is a leading brand ambassador for both Redken and Mizani. She is also creator of the Forever Curls Academy and a leader in demystifying texture and all of its beauty and possibilities. boosts#toggleFormOnEscOrEnter" data-boosts-adding-class="boosts--adding" data-boosts-deleting-class="boost--deleting">

Kelly Gorsuch (@kellygorsuch) is the highly respected, longtime owner of the Immortal Beloved salon in Richmond, VA, and more recently the Hell's Bottom Barbershops in Washington, DC and Richmond. Kelly is a believer in the big idea of salons and barbershops as metaphorical villages – places of work where we help each other learn and grow, have fun and, perhaps most importantly, help one another succeed. As a longtime and highly networked #crafthairdresser and owner, Kelly offers up his timely take on the future of salons.

Educator, creative colorist and celebrity stylist @Greg_Gilmore specializes in what he calls "Real Hair." A Global Color Ambassador for the all-new Moroccanoil color line, Greg has led an inspired professional journey that just keeps getting better. The now globe-trotting professional shares many of the lessons learned over the course of his career as well as his passion for the craft, education and living a great life.

Known throughout the industry as a color correction guru and educator, Cassandra McGlaughlin is back on the podcast, this time to discuss the evolution and ongoing importance of retail—a subject which she and Gordon share a passion for. The Redken brand ambassador, salon owner and coach talks about the many proof points around the power of offering clients at-home haircare solutions with pro products. What's more, chair-side education elevates the experience of in-salon purchasing, meaning the opportunity to grow a business and career through the sale of products remains as powerful as ever.

A hair service would be nothing without words. Every appointment begins and ends by talking to our clients, and we refine each service through communication. Celebrity stylist Derick Monroe and @lorealpro Assistant Vice President/Development of Education Mezei Jefferson join Gordon to discuss this power of language—especially as it relates to important conversations around texture and, more specifically, Black hair. Since the world is changing faster than ever, our industry as well as our language around hair and the clients we serve needs to evolve, and this great conversation underscores the importance and power of our words. boosts#toggleFormOnEscOrEnter" data-boosts-adding-class="boosts--adding" data-boosts-deleting-class="boost--deleting">

From "Prog Rock" vocalist/musician to hairdresser and multi-location salon owner, Laura Boton has incorporated her personal and professional values to build ongoing, sustainable success for her team, her business and family. At the core of those values are the big ideas of freedom, flexibility and fun—along with a never ending commitment to teaching and learning. Add to that the importance of mentorship (can we just say R+Co's Howard McLaren) and partnerships (@RandCo + @RandCoBleu), and you have a longstanding, proven formula for success in the professional salon industry—no matter which business model you choose to embrace.

@EvanJosephCurls, founder of the Evan Joseph Salon, is an inspiring brand advocate and SalonCentric #ItTakesaProTeam member. Evan has built an entire career around his passion for curly hair and the big idea of "Curl Care Simplified" for all textures and humans. In this enlightening conversation, Evan shares the story behind his unique professional journey and his ongoing passion for creating a salon that fully embraces diversity and community. Stay tuned for Part 2 where we focus on Evan's advice for building your business, your career and, perhaps most importantly, the community within your salon exclusively with curly hair clients. boosts#toggleFormOnEscOrEnter" data-boosts-adding-class="boosts--adding" data-boosts-deleting-class="boost--deleting"> boosts#toggleFormOnEscOrEnter" data-boosts-adding-class="boosts--adding" data-boosts-deleting-class="boost--deleting">

How we think and talk about raising our prices—not to mention knowing when and how to actually do it—is an important conversation that's taken on a renewed significance since the pandemic. Conor James Doyle—an educator, colorist, content creator and @redken advocate based in Dublin, Ireland—has blown up big on social media, due in large measure to his refreshing perspective toward much of what we do every day professionally. Conor and Gordon dig into raising prices and the big idea that there is no "one size fits all" approach to such an important pillar of business.