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.