Hairbrained Conversations

Lauren Moser Samuels (@laurenmmoser) and Rodrick Samuels (@rodricksamuels) recently had the rare privilege of hosting the 2022 North American Hairstyling Awards (NAHA), the most prestigious awards of their kind. Lauren is a NAHA-winning hairdresser, educator and artist, while Rodrick is an icon in the barber space as an artist and educator. Together they are barber school directors in Detroit, Michigan at @hairlabdetroitbarberschool. The husband and wife team take us behind the scenes on their journey to the NAHA stage as well as share a timely conversation about texture and race in the professional salon industry.

Out of humble beginnings, Stephanie Kocielski has carved an iconic career that has taken her around the world. From working behind the chair at A Robert Cromeans Salon to traveling the globe as a renowned platform artist and her current position as John Paul Mitchell Systems VP of Key Customer Relations, Stephanie has done it all. Note: Recorded pre-pandemic.

Part two of our conversation with Naomi Dove. In episode #249, we were introduced to Naomi's professional origin story, a journey so compelling that we ran out of time before getting to our planned conversation on the ongoing industry-wide conversation on texture and black hair, where we stand today as an industry on these big topics, and thoughts about the journey ahead. Today we tackle these topics and more.

The @randco Multiverse Tour—a traveling educational event inspired by art, fashion and music—recently came to Chicago for a sold out performance of powerful technical demonstrations and inspiration. This gave Gordon the unique opportunity to connect in-the-moment with an amazing array of guests about their passions, predictions and the power of showing up. Co-hosted by R+Co President Dan Langer, we catch up with Garren, Co-Founder/Collective Member; Jenny Cho, Collective Member and celebrity stylist; Adam Federico, Vice President of Technical Development in Education/Collective Member; Renée Valerie, Director of Color Education; and Alison Alhamed, Vice President of Community.

John Mosley is one of the industry's most well-known barbers/educators and @PaulMitchellPro Artistic Director. Recently named NAHA's Educator of the Year by PBA (@ProBeautyAssoc), John shares his take on this big recognition; where we are as professionals coming into our new semblance of work and life normalcy; plus his unique and well-informed point on the state of the larger industry, including diversity, inclusivity and representation. boosts#toggleFormOnEscOrEnter" data-boosts-adding-class="boosts--adding" data-boosts-deleting-class="boost--deleting">

Part Two of our deep conversation with @bumblepro alumna Amy Farid, the renowned editorial and session stylist who traces many of her influences back to her time at NYC's House of Bumble salon. In this episode we dig into her journey of working with and learning from the likes of Michael Gordon and Laurent Philippon; the learnings that have propelled her forward; some truly great perspectives on our changing larger world; and a proactive view on the pandemic. Be sure to listen to Part 1 of our conversation in Episode #250.

Liliana Maggio (@liltresser) is a twice-Emmy-nominated hairdresser for film and television who shares her unique journey into the salon industry, including some surprising turns along the way. Recent film credits include the reboots of "Sex and the City" and Steven Spielberg's much-lauded take on the iconic "West Side Story." Liliana also shares a reality check on life as an on-set hairdresser as well as her best advice for those wanting to follow in her footsteps. boosts#toggleFormOnEscOrEnter" data-boosts-adding-class="boosts--adding" data-boosts-deleting-class="boost--deleting">

@TheRealAmyFarid is a renowned editorial and session stylist who traces many of her influences as a professional back to her time as an @BumblePro apprentice at NYC's House of Bumble salon. In this episode, we talk about Amy's early days as a self-described queer kid of Native American heritage who fell in love with hair while growing up in small-town Kansas. She shares her truly unique experiences as a teenager, which became the foundation for a soon-to-be very big career. Join us for Part 2 of this deep conversation on July 3, 2022. boosts#toggleFormOnEscOrEnter" data-boosts-adding-class="boosts--adding" data-boosts-deleting-class="boost--deleting">

@AvedaItGirl Naomi Dove shares her one-of-a-kind, transformative personal and professional journey in search of (and which led to) her "Stage of Great Magnitude." Along the way, Naomi found Aveda—and, in time, @Aveda found Naomi. The rest, as they say, is HERstory. Listen in to hear part one of our two-part conversation with the @AvedaItGirl. boosts#toggleFormOnEscOrEnter" data-boosts-adding-class="boosts--adding" data-boosts-deleting-class="boost--deleting">

Global Oribe Artist and Educator @Adam_Livermore joins Gordon for a very special episode focused on Pride Month and its larger meaning for the LGBTQAI+ community and our industry. We also dig into the story behind Adam's rise to prominence as a session, editorial and celebrity stylist, his thoughts around staying inspired throughout the pandemic - and the impact of Oribe Canales, the iconic and bigger-than-life hairdresser, on Adam's career. boosts#toggleFormOnEscOrEnter" data-boosts-adding-class="boosts--adding" data-boosts-deleting-class="boost--deleting">

Kevin Hughes (@hairbyeleven) is a session/celebrity stylist who joined @moroccanoilpro as Artistic Director 11 years ago and hasn't looked back since. Growing up with 11 siblings, Kevin discovered his passion for hair early in life—and fixed family member haircuts in his spare time! That passion has served Kevin well as he worked his way up through the industry, from behind the chair to salon ownership followed by a move to L.A. that quickly led to work with celebrities and more.

An award-winning London-based color specialist, @Harriet_Stokes has an affinity for education and is cofounder of the @HumanKindHair education platform. The L'Oréal Professionnel guest artist shares her tremendous passion for the craft in the latest Run Le Hair Show episode, L'Oréal Pro's groundbreaking YouTube series. We dig into all of this and much more in this week's episode.

Passionate business educator, coach and author Antony Whitaker joins Gordon for a post-pandemic update on business trends, opportunities and more. The founder of @GrowMySalonBusiness and frequent guest on the podcast, Antony always provides a wealth of valuable best practice insights. To hear more of these insightful conversations, be sure to check out episodes #13, #81, and #173.

With 30 years of professional beauty industry experience to his credit, Davines North America CEO Alejandro López has a real passion for salons, professionals and the difference that our industry makes in the world. We dig into the story behind his journey to Davines, and how his passion for the brand's unique culture, values and vision inspire him for what lies ahead.

SalonCentric #ItTakesAProTeam artists Christopher Aaron (@ChristopherAaronStudio) and Daniel Mason-Jones (@DanielMasonJones) join Gordon to share their personal and professional experiences as members of the LGBTQ+ community, and what it means for our larger industry. We get up close and personal with Daniel and Christopher to discuss "growing up gay;" what Pride means to them personally; the power of inclusivity, empathy and representation; and how we all can be allies and better support the LGBTQ+ community.

@Neill President @EdwinNeill shares much of the story behind this iconic family business that over time has grown to be involved in all aspects of our industry. Today, the largest @Aveda distributor in the world is also home to @LoveParisParker Salons and Spas, @AvedaArts and Sciences Institutes in 10 states, @ParkerBarber Shops, @Vomor hair extensions, and the highly respected @SeriousBusiness conference. As chairperson of the Louisiana State Board of Cosmetology with a unique perspective, Edwin also shares his passion for professional licensure, diversity and inclusivity, and the artistry of hairdressers.

Colorist, salon owner, educator and Artistic Director of Color for John Paul Mitchell Systems, Colin Caruso (@colincarouso) is back for another inspired conversation, sharing career and business insights plus a look into the inspiration behind his new video series, Paul Mitchell Style Trip. Note: Recorded pre-pandemic.

A pioneer of salon suites, @LoveEricTaylor shares the story behind his 20-plus year journey in the professional salon industry. From his earliest days in Dallas as an unpaid assistant to the owner of one of the first salon suite organizations in the U.S. (followed by his move to Los Angeles to launch what would become @SalonRepublic), Eric shares the many lessons and insights learned along the way. We also talk about his new role as Chairman of the Professional Beauty Federation of California, a position he assumed following two years of pandemic-related activism on behalf of salons and pros in California.

Aveda Global Artistic Director of Haircutting Ricardo Dinis (@ricardodinis) shares some of the great lessons learned over the course of his fascinating career journey. Gordon calls this one 'an instant favorite and a must-listen-to episode'. Note: Recorded pre-pandemic.

@AmikaPro's Chelsea Riggs (@chelseamriggs) is back for a deep conversation about authenticity; sustainability and diversity; equity and inclusion; and how we can all be better prepared to leverage the power of professional salons to make a difference in the world. A follow up to Chelsea's record-breaking first appearance (Episode #215 is our # 1 most downloaded episode ever), this all-new conversation is sure to inform and inspire!

Barbers Sofie Pok and Schorem's Rob Rietveld (along with a passionate live audience in NYC) join Gordon for a brilliant conversation on the changing landscape of barbering/men's grooming, social media and so much more. Note: Recorded pre-pandemic.

@Martyn_Wady, International Business Development Manager for @DenmanPro, shares his career and life story along with lessons learned from working for decades behind the chair before joining one of the industry's most iconic tool companies. The #crafthairdresser—who is likewise an educator, author, co-founder of the agency Five Point Alliance and a passionate environmentalist—also reveals Denman's latest exciting innovations and opportunities.

One of the industry's most recognizable faces -and voices, Charlie Price is known for his artistry, practical salon focused education and fun, irreverent style of presenting. The award-winning artist and one-time villain on Bravo TV's Shear Genius joins Gordon for a fun, far-ranging and smart conversation.

Charli Boell (@ShrunknHeads) is a passionate #crafthairdresser, barber and brand ambassador who, in the midst of the pandemic, came out publicly as a trans woman. Charli quickly became a role model for many who felt marginalized and not seen as who they really are. Charli shares the story behind her journey from a young person who sat uncomfortably in the barber chair (quietly not wanting a traditional boy's haircut), to decades later discovering her true self, in time opening up to share her larger journey and experiences with us all. A must-listen-to episode.

#Crafthairdresser Jude Viola joins us for an introspective conversation about her career and life journey - one that has taken her from getting a college degree in banking to being inspired 'by a pixie cut' to start her career in hairdressing. Gordon call this one "an instant favorite episode".

@ElenaLavagni is co-owner of London based Neville Salon and acts as "service provider" (which translates into staff and management resource) for the world's one and only Amazon Salon. Although Amazon's launch of a salon was the source of great controversy for many, Elena makes a strong case for proactive evolution of how salons think about business and technology to remain competitive in a fast-changing world – and shares learnings from her experience working with Amazon as well as with her own Neville team over the course of the pandemic.

Renowned globetrotting updo and long hair artist/educator Sharon Blain (@SharonBlainEducation) shares the story behind her iconic career as well as great advice on becoming a successful educator, working professional and more. Note: Recorded pre-pandemic.

Renowned L'Oréal Professionnel educator and master balayage artist Jack Howard used the pandemic as an inspiration to openly share his unique insights and approach to balayage—and in the process grew his Instagram following from 50,000 to 238,000. Not one to stop there, Jack works at D.C.'s Izzy Salon, hosts the monthly JackHowardColor podcast, educates online and in real time for L'Oréal Professionnel, regularly produces programs for his growing digital education platform, and takes time every Friday to "Celebrate Our Hair Industry" on social media.

#Crafthairdresser and independent educator @IraPopeSage shares the unique story behind his journey into hairdressing and how a chance meeting with @paulmitchellpro's Robert Cromeans and team literally changed his life. We talk about Ira's perspective as both a long-working hairdresser and educator as well as taking a dive into the future of hairdressing—including why both Ira and Gordon see robots very much in the future of salons.

Renowned L'Oréal Professionnel Artist, educator, salon owner and balayage guru Nancy Braun shares her truly unique career journey, plus insights into creating success as a colorist as well as a business owner. Note: Recorded pre-pandemic.

@IanMichaelBlack is an iconic artist, educator, and the @aveda Global Artistic Director of Hair Color. Ian shares what's new in his world professionally as he gets back out on the road, and does a deep dive into the larger world of Aveda—including a discussion of Aveda's latest innovations in hair color.

Salon owner, working hairdresser, celebrity stylist and entrepreneurial spirit Janine Jarman shares the story behind her brilliant rise to success, best advice for creating your own and much more.

@DanielMasonJones is a craft hairdresser, master colorist, salon and spa owner, renowned educator and business coach. The @LorealPro and @SalonCentric Ambassador joins Gordon for an impromptu conversation that digs into the topic some are calling "fake pro beauty news"—the sometimes viral-like opinions being positioned as best practices or trends for salons and professionals, but which often fall apart under closer scrutiny. This episode is sure to provoke opinions and perhaps inspire new ways of looking at some of the controversial information finding its way around our industry. boosts#toggleFormOnEscOrEnter" data-boosts-adding-class="boosts--adding" data-boosts-deleting-class="boost--deleting">

Aveda North American Artistic Team member, #crafthairdresser, DJ and founder/Creative Director of @elevatehair, @TatumNeill talks social media, content creation and the intersection of his passion for music and hair. Note: Recorded pre-pandemic.

In celebration of reaching the big milestone of 1 million podcast downloads, we reached out to 10 iconic professionals (and past guests!) for some big ideas for all to consider as we move more squarely into our next version of "normal." Big thanks to our special guests: Antoinette Beenders, Daniel Mason-Jones, Garren, James Pecis, Janine Jarman, Naeemah LaFond, Nina Kovner, Robert and Mary Croemans, and Sam Villa.

@Andrewdoeshair is a globally recognized men's groomer, educator, author of @ADHbook (on Instagram). He is the co-founder of the recently launched thehairjam.com eLearning platform. Perhaps Gordon's favorite #crafthairdresser 'iconoclast', Andrew is a longtime Hb community member.

JPMS CEO Michaeline DeJoria and President Jason Yates join us for a deep conversation that digs into their unique and collaborative styles as leaders of one of the world's most iconic haircare brands. We discuss their career journeys, the importance of clear values, vision, life balance, and their shared passions for and commitment to the professional salon industry and hairdressers.

Renowned artist, stylist & salon owner Kien Hoang is also the Principle Educator of Content for Oribe Haircare. The founder of UMBRELLA Salon shares some of the many insights gleaned from his consideable experience in all things hair - including his passion for art, design & fashion.

@MichaelColeMillionaireStylist, a longtime iconic business/career educator and coach, joins Gordon to deliver much-needed context surrounding the pandemic-driven proliferation of coaches, "new" ideas and what Gordon lightheartedly refers to as Fake Beauty News.

Gordon is joined by Wella Professionals' iconic Global Creative Artist @sonyadove and influencer/Ambassador @brianacisneros to talk about everything from their individual career origin stories and learnings along the way to their shared passion for hair color, social media, education and, of course, Wella. Note: Recorded pre-pandemic.

Special #BlackHistoryMonth Episode: Miki Wright has a passion for Black History, especially as it relates to the professional beauty industry. We discuss a great list of iconic figures, from Madam C.J. Walker to Michelle Obama's hairdresser Johnny Wright and Celebrity Stylist Ted Gibson, and share their amazing stories of overcoming adversity to make a mark not only on our industry but also on the larger world. Another must-listen-to episode.

Editorial hairstylist, renowned educator, and @amika Global Artistic Director @naeemahlafond joins Gordon for a far-ranging conversation that delves into her fascinating career and life's journey, including her deep love of fashion and its connection to hair, as well as the story behind her role at the uber-cool Amika. Naeemah also reflects on the impact made by her viral #BlackLivesMatter-inspired "Brand's Guide For Hiring Equality" as well as the current state of racial and social justice in the professional salon industry.

Passionate professional @Greg_Gilmore shares his story and journey from his early childhood interest in salon life to his move across the country—and the challenges he faced in doing so—to expand his career potential and possibilities. Today, Greg is a respected educator, celebrity stylist, working hairdresser and colorist with a deep passion for his profession, and is now supporting @moroccanoilpro's new color launch.

Mahogany Plautz (@muchlovemahogany) is an independent stylist and long-time @paulmitchellpro Educator. She joins us to talk about her passion and purpose—raising awareness and offering insights into the important topic of racial justice and its intersection with our industry, hair history and activism. We also discuss Mahogany's life as an independent stylist and educator plus tips on how to get ahead in these growing categories of interest to so many.

@Oribepro ambassador @StaceyCiceron joins Gordon for a deep conversation on life and work in the midst of Covid-19, reflections on the #BlackLivesMatter movement, race and America (and the salon industry), the powers of mentorship and role models, and her work with and love for Oribe.

@TippiShorter shares unique insights into her life as a successful celebrity hairstylist, renowned texture expert, respected educator and so much more. The Global Artistic Director for @Mizani and @Lorealpro Color Artist has spent decades helping lead the way in proactively changing attitudes in the professional salon industry around the big ideas of texture and race. From the impacts of Covid-19 and #BlackLivesMatter on our industry to a discussion around the larger issue of needed changes in the salon world, this conversation is one not to be missed.

Self-described "L.A. Curly Hairstylist," educator and @paulmitchellpro Ambassador Paula Peralta joins Gordon to discuss #blacklivesmatter, including her personal and professional experiences as a Black woman and hairdresser. Paula also shares insights into how we can respond as professionals to the growing calls for racial justice in America and a more inclusive professional beauty industry.

Chrystal L. (AKA @chrystalhairandmakeup) is not only a suite owner, working professional, educator and brand ambassador for Alfaparf, she's also a passionate humanitarian and activist. She founded the All Hair Academy and Beauty Collective—two programs focused on making our industry more diverse and inclusive—and is co-founder of the BOLD Academy, a non-profit created to support, nurture and enhance the leadership skills of black and brown girls. We dig into Chrystal's impressive life's work and more in this episode, including two of her deepest passions: gender-neutral salon pricing and the big issues of diversity, inclusivity and representation in salons. Another conversation not to be missed.

Salon owner, craft hairdresser and TikTok content creator/personality Richard McDade, AKA @badlyshaedape, shares the story behind his successful career and his growing presence on Tiktok. His humorous take on an insider's look at life in the salon has quickly garnered over 70k followers, 2.7 million likes, and even more views. Since TikTok is quickly becoming a force to be reckoned with in the ever-evolving social media space, this is an episode not to be missed.

Aga Dondzik Tomkins (@agatomkinsbeauty) is a Hb podcast fan with a twist. The Chicago-based stylist and salon owner also travels the world doing hair and makeup for bands/artists like Carly Rae Jepsen's world tour. She recently introduced herself to Gordon in a Chicago restaurant, and what started out as a casual podcast-related connection led to a deep dive into her professional journey—for all the world to listen in and learn from. Note: Recorded pre-pandemic.