Hairbrained Conversations

Founder and co-owner of the award-winning @aveda affiliated Gila Rut Salons, Keri Davis is also the founder of *Beauty BackBone*, a one-of-a-kind educational company helping salons to grow and succeed. A renowned business educator, coach and author, Keri shares pandemic-inspired learnings as well as reminds us of many important, long-proven best practices that have 'forever' served salon owners, independents and professionals well.

Salon owner, award-winning colorist, and L'ANZA Global Color Director Leah Freeman joins Gordon for a freewheeling, inspired conversation. From her challenges as a young learner with dyslexia and early days behind the chair to her journey to becoming a successful salon owner and renowned educator with L'ANZA, Leah shares the story behind her 20+ year career as well as lessons learned along the way. Note: Recorded pre-pandemic.

@DarrenOramPro, L'Oréal Professionnel's Vice President of Education, and @MinKimColorist, master colorist, educator, and co-host of @lorealpro's Run Le Hair Show, discuss the huge transformation of education in the pro beauty space over the past two years and what it means for the future. As the industry continues to sort out the pandemic's long-term impact on salons and professionals, one big idea that most seem to agree on is that education is in the midst of a massive transformation—to the potential benefit of all.

January is always a great time to consider new strategies and tactics for the year ahead. To help you have your best year ever, @Angie.Davines, Director of Business & Sales Training for Davines North America, offers her Top 10 ways to drive salon income and profits. The former working #crafthairdresser, salon manager and owner comes to the conversation informed by her real-life experience as well as observations and learnings from some of the best salons around the world. Bonus: Special thanks to Davines for offering our audience two exceptional complimentary gifts (not to be missed!). Listen in for details.

Business and career-building strategies and tactics for the salon are the focus of our conversation with Alfaparf Milano USA Senior Vice President Betsy Hamlett. From how you define success and the importance of clarity around goals, to creating and delivering a superb experience that encourages client retention and referrals (and much more!), we cover a lot of meaningful ground in this important conversation. Another must-listen episode to start your year off right!

To kick the new year off right, Gordon goes solo to share a sampling of highlights from the 2021 Industry Insight Report from the Professional Beauty Association (PBA). Conducted in September (and presented by Gordon at the recent PBA Executive Summit), the full report gives great insights into the impact of Covid on salons and professionals, in addition to the state of our industry's ongoing recovery. Gordon adds his professional context to key points as well as hopes for the future.

Award-winning, international artist @TomConnell shares his journey from a young stylist working in his parents' salon in Manchester, England, to becoming Davines Hair Art Director. The former Trevor Sorbie artistic director shares the inspiration behind his love of editorial and session work as well as his growing passion for Davines, its evolving brand identity, unique culture, and commitment to quality, sustainability and community. Note: Recorded pre-pandemic.

@WhitneyVermeer is a renowned men's groomer, educator, award-winning editorial stylist and entrepreneur. The Andis Creative Lead of Global Education & Mizutani platform artist shares her backstory, many of the lessons learned along the way as well as some great insights into creating a long, diverse career. Note: Recorded pre-pandemic.

One of Gordon's favorite pro salon industry thought-leaders is Dan Langer (@theoriginalDL), Group President of R+Co & IKG Hair. Featured regularly in leading fashion and beauty publications to talk "trend," Langer joins us to discuss the pandemic-related evolution of the salon experience; shifting consumer expectations and behaviors; authenticity and flexibility; and so much more. A not-to-be-missed discussion for anyone looking for insights into 2022's big opportunities.

Celebrity colorist, Olaplex brand ambassador and educator @ChadKenyon goes deep into the very personal story behind his rise to success. Chad also offers up a lot of great insights and advice on building a long-lasting, fulfilling career. Note: Recorded pre-pandemic.

Coby Alcántar (@CobyWon), the Brooklyn-based salon owner of @LittleAxeSalon, is a working professional and renowned @Oribe educator. Known throughout the industry as a master razor cutter, Coby shares her unique journey and lessons learned along the way—as well as a deep conversation about the influence on her career by Oribe Canales, co-founder of Oribe and one of the top editorial and celebrity hairdressers of the last 50 years.

John Mosley, @PaulMitchellPro Artistic Director, is one of the most sought-after barbers in the industry today. With diverse experience ranging from working in a shop to traveling with high-profile entertainers and athletes, forming brand partnerships and developing education, John brings a wealth of experience to his conversation with Gordon. Note: Recorded pre-pandemic.

Global President of L'Oréal Professionnel Anne Machet and LP color guru and celebrity colorist Nabil Harlow join Gordon to discuss the changing face of education in the pro beauty space. We also take a deep dive into the big ideas behind the successful launch of L'Oréal Professionnel's groundbreaking YouTube docuseries, Run Le Hair Show. From the science behind hair color, to global trends driving change, to technical demonstrations and one-on-one interviews, this ongoing series is not to be missed.

A very special conversation with our friend Tabatha Coffey and humanitarian Selina Tomasich, the founder of Hair Aid, an Australian-based charitable organization focused on lifting people out of critical poverty by sharing basic haircutting skills. Please visit @hairaidinc on IG or www.hairaid.org.au for more information on how you can support this important work. Note: Recorded pre-pandemic

A recipient of the prestigious NAHA Hall of Leaders Lifetime Achievement Award, @GenoStampora is known for his considerable insights into creating career and business success. In this fast-paced conversation, Geno shares the story behind his iconic career as well as a long list of insights into creating and maintaining success. Note: Recorded pre-pandemic.

Jo Blackwell-Preston (@blackwelljo) is the owner of NYC's DopDop Salon and a L'Oréal Professionnel International Artist and Educator. Jo shares her considerable insights into a long list of topics that impacts the lives of salon owners and professionals alike. We also dig into the story behind her iconic career and lessons learned along the way. Note: Recorded pre-pandemic.

@PekelaRiley is a Dyson Brand Ambassador, Celebrity Stylist, Editorial Stylist, Educator, and Owner/Creative Director of Salon PK in Jacksonville Florida (named by Elle magazine as 1 of the top 100 salons in America). Known as a pioneer in the texture movement, Pekela shares her thoughts on the state of the movement today, the story behind her journey to pro beauty, her thoughts on how Dyson is revolutionizing pro tools, and much more.

Richard Kavanagh is an award-winning, internationally renowned Redken artist & Session Stylist; Global Creative Director of New Zealand based salons Rodney Wayne Group; Creative Director ghd (for Australia and NZ) AND the innovative co-founder/ceo of piiq Digital. He was also 'squished by a dinosaur' as an actor in the movie King Kong. Tune in to learn more about Richard's fascinating story.

@LupeVoss, co-founder of @ColorSpaceHair, is the "color educators' educator," a mentor to more professionals than we can count and a legend in the world of hair color education. And now, along with business partner Ray Civello, Lupe has launched Color Space, an all-new color brand. One of the earliest Hairbrained Community members, Lupe began her career as an educator in 1998, and since then she hasn't stopped advocating for reimagined and inspired education.

The legendary co-founders of @randco join Hairbrained (and a live audience) from their now-iconic "Vision On" event in Los Angeles to share their stories, talk about their journey together with R+Co as well as offer up views on the state of salons, creating success and standing out in these competitive times. Note: Recorded pre-pandemic.

@Morrocanoil's Chief Executive Officer, Americas, Jay Elarar started his career in beauty by way of a very successful but unexpectedly short job interview with the CEO of a Montreal-based haircare brand he had never heard of. As luck would have it, his sisters immediately recognized the company name as one of "the hottest names in hair" and encouraged Jay to make the leap. Leap he did—joining the now-iconic brand as National Sales Director—and was soon after promoted to Global Sales Director before being named CEO of the groundbreaking brand in 2019. Jay shares his own story, some pandemic learnings, his passion for giving back to the industry...and a peek into Morocccanoil's 2022 all-new hair color launch.

Renowned independent educator and founder/co-owner of theFactory , @danieljosephmuldoon is a master of the craft who believes that 'Knowledge Destroys Fear'. The former Sassoon and JPMS educator shares his one-a-kind story and lessons learned along the way. Note: Recorded pre-pandemic.

Olaplex is one of those rare brands that in many ways changed the game in the pro beauty space. Both Jeff Schwartz, Senior Executive Vice President North America Sales and Distribution, and Joe Santy, the now-retired VP of Success, were there since the now-iconic brand's early days and witnessed what can only be described as a meteoric success story. These two longtime industry veterans and best friends share some of the story behind the brand as well as lessons learned and words of wisdom gleaned from many decades of hard work in the professional beauty industry. A must-listen episode!

One of the industry's most successful salon organizations, @VanMichaelSalon is renowned globally as a leader in best practices in every aspect of their business. A long-time @Aveda Concept Salon owner, @VanCouncil shares a great list of insights into what makes his organization so uniquely successful. This is a not to be missed episode! Note: recorded pre-pandemic

Chelsea Riggs is a founding member and Brand President of @Amikapro, an uber fun, accessible, and affordable luxury haircare brand. Under Chelsea's leadership, Amika has grown into an industry leader focused on a "future in which beauty contributes to a world where people and the planet prosper". Listen in to hear the story behind Chelsea's pro beauty journey, the key values behind the brand, and some of her lessons learned along the way.

From four years in a high-school beauty school program to traveling theworld with Rhianna, @ursulastephen has had a unique and inspiring path to success. This "architect of style" is a celebrity stylist, salon owner, working professional and emerging educator with a great outlook on life and career. Listen in for some great lessons learned! Note: Recorded pre-pandemic.

Meet Craig Boa (@doing_it_rong), owner of Edmonton, Canada's Weekly Salons (@weeklyyeg) & the Take Care Cafe (@takecarecafe) --2 boutique salons and a connected coffee shop in Edmonton, Canada. Inspired in part by a passion for inclusivity and sustainability, Weekly has been recognized by local press as the "go-to salon for people who expect a unique experience and elevated level of service." Craig shares with us his story, the 'why' behind his pairing up of a coffee shop and salon - and how doing so has added to Weekly's growing success story.

James Pecis (@jamespecis) collaborates with some of fashion's most innovative names. A leader in the world of editorial and runway hair, James is also very involved in Oribe product development, education, editorial shoots and fashion events. In this episode, James shares with Gordon a BTS look at his life in hair and fashion. Important note: this episode was recorded pre-pandemic.

This week's guests come to you by way of I-N, the groundbreaking haircare company formerly known as Intelligent Nutrients. Marlo Boyle is I-N Education Director while Lindsey Larson is a working salon pro and brand "I-NNOVATOR". Both are passionate about protecting the health of clients, their fellow professionals, and our planet. Perhaps more timely than ever, this episode digs into the issues of sustainability, clean beauty, and protecting our planet - all with authenticity and transparency.

SalonCentric ambassador and colorist Caroline Guiney shares insights into salon suite ownership, a career option that is transforming the industry. From the pros and cons of suite owner to insights into her success as a colorist, Caroline shares some great information. With appreciation to SalonCentric for sponsoring this important series.

Renowned salon owner & educator Daniel Mason-Jones on the ins and outs of owning your own salon. The 1st guest in a series of 6 special episodes on key topics related to growing your career & business, Daniel dives into the big ideas that have propelled him to success as both an owner & working hairdresser. With appreciation to Salon Centric for sponsoring this important series.

Cassandra McGlaughlin, aka @cassandraplatinum, is an award-winning colorist, 2-time salon owner, educator, coach, brand consultant, entrepreneur, and @Redken Ambassador. In this popular past episode, Cassandra shares some of her considerable knowledge on both social media and business-building best practices.

James Jordan (@hairdresser007) is a @schwarzkopfusa brand manager who is also a long-time licensed professional. Over the course of the last 20+ years, James has had the unique opportunity to represent the hairdressers' point of view as brands he has worked with develop products, related education and marketing. James shares his unique story as well as insights learned over the course of a long, successful career.

Sofie Pok (@staygold31) is an award-winning educator, platform artist, member of the Barberology and BaBylissPRO Team, and Barbercon's 2017 Female Barber of the Year. In this very popular episode, the co-founder of @STMNT shares the fascinating stories behind her career, success on Instagram, her journey to stages across the industry, and so much more. Note that this episode was recorded pre-pandemic.

Working hairdresser/colorist/educator @MarkDolan2 is the newly appointed L'ANZA Creative Director. Similar to many great professionals, Mark didn't start his career in the salon industry. In fact, he never considered it. Instead, he received a degree in psychology and went to work counseling juvenile offenders—soon realizing that this was not the career of his dreams. The rest of his unique story is shared in this episode, as well as many lessons and insights learned along the way.

This week we REPLAY the inaugural episode of the Hb Conversations podcast. Hairbrained co-founders Gerard Scarpaci and Randy Taylor share the story behind the evolution of hairbrained.me in a wide-ranging conversation. If you enjoyed the episode, we hope you will subscribe, like, and share!

Wella Professionals Education Director (and 2021 NAHA Winner) Stephen Moody (@hairmody) is one of the industry's most recognized and respected educators. Stephen shares with Gordon the story behind this 30+ year career as well as his considerable insights into how to create and sustain success in today's highly competitive world.

@ShelleyGregoryHair is a working colorist, stylist, educator and brand ambassador (L'Oreal Professionnel, Dyson, and SalonCentric) who is also one of the industry's most recognized Influencers. Her take on building salon success - leveraging real-time tools and relationships - is filled with great insights (as is her take on the current state of Instagram). Recorded pre-pandemic, this remains highly relevant today!

Bumble and bumble Global Education Manager @misterchristiaan started his journey as an aspiring painter, but quickly realized that his creative talents would serve him well in his other passion—hair! From his early career days with Rudy's Barber Shop—where he first came in contact with Bumble and bumble—to today being responsible for managing the renowned educational offerings of @bumblepro, Christiaan has had a fascinating career that many would envy. Listen in to hear his story, lessons learned along the way and much more.

Robert Cromeans is Global Artistic and Business Director for JPMS. The iconic platform artist, business leader, and salon owner shares with Gordon his inspired take on everything from social media and creating success to the evolution of salon business models and compensation.

@lorealpro master colorist and educator extraordinaire Min Kim (@minkimcolorist) and renowned international session stylist Charlie Le Mindu (@charlielemindu) co-host the new YouTube-based L'Oréal Professionnel series Run Le Hair Show, which has gained over 2 million views since its recent premiere. We dig into this groundbreaking new show, its unique approach and value to professionals and consumers alike, and get a sneak peek into what's coming next.

Gamechanger salon owner, renowned educator, influencer, and celebrity stylist Najah Aziz talks about the transition (and lessons learned) from life in a corporate 'cubicle' to that of a high-profile success story in the professional salon industry.

CEO and President of the iconic @PenzoneSalonsAndSpas, @DebbiePenzone is firmly committed to innovation—a larger organizational attribute she credits her and her husband's 50-plus years of growing success to. With over 30 years of experience herself, Debbie shares her story from "small town girl" to passionate hair artist and inspiring leader. Debbie offers her thoughts on the power of mentorship, ongoing technical and career/business-building education, self-confidence, community and much more.

@AntoinetteBeenders is Aveda's Senior Vice President of Creative and Global Creative Director. The 9-time nominee and 2004 winner of the British Hairdresser of the Year award shares the story behind her professional journey, insights into life in the corporate beauty world, and tips on how to create a sustainable career.

Liliana Maggio (@liltresser) is a two-time Emmy-nominated hairdresser for film and television who shares her unique journey into the salon industry, including some surprising turns along the way. Upcoming film credits include the reboots of both "Sex and the City" and Stephen Speilberg's much-anticipated 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.

Renowned Colorist, Redken Brand Ambassador and salon owner Johnny Ramirez goes deep into the fascinating story behind his rise to global prominence and success- and lessons learned along the way. Gordon says this is an absolute "must listen to" episode!

@AlisonAlhamed, @RandCo Vice President of Community, is known throughout the industry as a leading voice in supporting the dreams and aspirations of professionals. The former pro beauty media editor-in-chief shares the story behind her unique journey from college-attending Starbucks barista to a long career in journalism before joining the R+Co executive team-- just days before the pandemic lock downs began.

Sam Villa is Global Artistic Ambassador for Redken, co-founder of Sam Villa Professional, NAHA Lifetime Achievement Award Winner – and one of the industry's most renowned educators and iconic artists. In this episode, Sam shares not only his story but also his passion for helping professionals and salons to grow their success.

@AvedaArtists and Color Squad member Sarah Sibley is co-owner of Dallas-Ft Worth's Lavender Square Salon and a rising star in the world of Aveda salons and spas. Sarah talks about the power of mentorship, the attributes and benefits of the right business partner, becoming an educator, and how being a mom helped her shift her career priorities in a way that actually helped her charge her worth.

Welcome to our weekly REPLAY episode where we re-share some of our most popular episodes: "Media star, best selling author, former salon owner, Matrix Global Business Ambassador and, most importantly, passionate hairdresser (!) Tabatha Coffey talks about the ongoing evolution of her career and the many valuable lessons learned along the way."