Sometimes I find myself searching for words to aptly describe the achievements and status of someone who is way ahead of the pack.  

My guest on today's episode is one such person, and I’m going to describe him as a ‘hairdressing genius.’

Sam McKnight is a session stylist with a list of eye-watering achievements, including having worked with every supermodel you can name, as well as celebrities, movie stars, royalty, photographers, magazines, and fashion designers, over the last 40 years.

He has so many Vogue covers to his credit that he’s lost count (well over 250!) He’s won awards, had exhibitions, published his own book, and been a contributing editor to British Vogue.

Sam is currently a judge on the UK reality TV show, ‘The Big Blow Out’ (which is sponsored by Paul Mitchell), and on top of all that, Sam is the founder of his own product range, simply called “Hair by Sam McKnight.”

So, in today's podcast, we just talk about being Sam McKnight…

In this Episode:

[04:04] The transition point in Sam’s life that is marked by his book, Hair By Sam McKnight.

[09:47] Sam explains what motivated him to become a session stylist at a time when most hairdressers were focused on cutting hair. 

[14:46] The person who influenced Sam in the early years of his career. 

[16:33] Value that lies in building and maintaining good relationships with people in the industry. 

[19:38] Characteristics and situations that Sam is repelled by.

[23:06] The balance between intimacy and distance that is required of a hairdresser.

[26:21] A trait that Sam believes has been key to his success. 

[27:29] Some of the catalytic moments that signaled a step-up in Sam’s career. 

[29:38] The combination of factors that turn a model into a worldwide phenomenon.

[32:24] Dynamism that defines the modern hairdressing industry.

[34:51] The genius of Karl Lagerfeld.

[37:27] The power that lies in being a hairstylist. 

[42:13] How Sam became involved in the reality TV show, The Big Blow Out, and an overview of the concept behind the show. 

[46:53] Sam’s experience of creating his haircare brand, and the elements that make his products stand out. 

[52:22] What Sam thinks hairdressers should do to stay relevant in the industry as it evolves. 

[59:19] Sam’s biggest strength, the most important life lesson he has learned, and what he wishes he was better at. 

Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated!  

They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast. 

I also love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast! Just click here to review, scroll to the bottom, tap “Ratings and Reviews” tap to rate with 5 stars and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favourite part of the podcast is. Thank you for your support! 

Special thanks to Sam for sharing his insights with me for this week’s episode. Until next time! 

Antony

Links and Resources:

Grow My Salon Business 

Website | Facebook | Instagram | TikTok

Sam McKnight

Website | Instagram | Instagram [Personal] |  Facebook |  Twitter |  Book