In this episode of Rooted + Rising Through the Beauty Industry, Josie Aldrich and Quinn Mattingly sit down with stylist Sam Vimbela, Quinn’s “same-day salon sister”, to talk about the first two years of life behind the chair.

Sam shares her honest highs and lows, from tough pricing conversations and busy books to the lessons she’s learned about client communication, active listening, and building consultation confidence. We also unpack how Gen Z is influencing the beauty industry through individuality, authenticity, and a refusal to “just do it the way it’s always been done.”

✨ What you’ll learn in this episode:

• Why people skills > perfect layers in your first years

• How to build consultation confidence and lead conversations

• The Gen Z perspective on individuality, authenticity, and breaking salon stereotypes

• Common misconceptions about younger stylists and how they see it

• Real highs & lows: busy weeks, after-photo guilt, and system gaps with pricing

• A current Gen Z vocabulary list that “no man deserves”.

This is a must-listen for new stylists, salon assistants, and salon leaders mentoring Gen Z talent.

🔗 Connect with us on Instagram

@lighten.with.josie | @quinn_does_hair | @hairbysamijoe | @rootedandrisingbeauty

gen z hairstylist, new stylist advice, salon consultation tips, hair industry podcast, stylist mindset, client communication hair, early career hairdresser, beauty industry education, behind the chair advice, stylist growth journey