Hairbrained Conversations

By Gerard ScarpaciBusiness Arts Fashion & Beauty Careers

Hairbrained Conversations episodes

July 24, 2025 Episode #335 Josie Vilay, Schwarzkopf Professional Digital Artist
In this episode of Hb Conversations, Gerard chats with Josie Vilay—a salon owner, Schwarzkopf Professional Digital Artist, and expert in color correction. Josie tells the story of how one Instagram post helped launch her career and how she built a busy salon while raising two kids. She gives easy tips for making content that feels real and grabs attention, using movement and strong openings. They also talk about the return of Schwarzkopf Professional's IGORA® COLOR10® and how quick color services are changing the way stylists work. Whether you're a hairstylist, teacher, or content creator, Josie's story is full of helpful advice and inspiration.
38 min
June 08, 2025 Episode #334 Antoinette Beenders & Kevin Molin, Aveda Congress
Gerard Scarpaci talks with Aveda icons Antoinette Beenders and Kevin Molin about the upcoming Aveda Congress, happening August 16–18 in Minneapolis. They share the event's deep roots, this year's standout lineup, and why Congress is more than a hair show—it's a full-on creative and cultural experience.
51 min
May 25, 2025 Episode #333 Shane Wolf, Global President of Aveda and Hair Care at Estée Lauder Companies.
In this episode of Hb Conversations, we sit down with Shane Wolf, Global President of Aveda and Hair Care at Estée Lauder Companies. From his roots as a hairdresser to leading one of the industry's most mission-driven brands, Shane shares insights on sustainability, creativity, and Aveda's deep commitment to salon professionals. A candid and inspiring conversation about craft, leadership, and honoring the legacy of the industry's pioneers.
49 min
February 23, 2025 Episode 332: Jacob Khan-Creative Director Hairbrained
Description: In this episode of HB Conversations, we sit down with the always entertaining and insightful Jacob Khan, who has just taken on the role of Hairbrained's first-ever Creative Director! Jacob shares his journey from hairdresser to social media sensation, educator, and brand ambassador—now stepping into a leadership role that will shape the future of Hairbrained's content and events. Jacob opens up about the turning point that skyrocketed his career on Instagram, his unique approach to blending humor with hair education, and the lessons he's learned about balancing creative freedom with brand partnerships. He also gives us an inside look at his vision for Hairbrained's future, working closely with the team to elevate education, empower hairdressers, and create opportunities for emerging artists. Key Topics Covered: ⏩ How a viral moment led to 22K followers overnight ⏩ The evolution of hair education & making learning fun ⏩ Navigating brand partnerships without losing authenticity ⏩ The power of social media in building a personal brand ⏩ Jacob's new role as Hairbrained's Creative Director and what's next ⏩ The future of content creation for hair professionals With his signature humor and unfiltered honesty, Jacob breaks down what it takes to thrive in today's industry—whether you're behind the chair, behind the camera, or building a brand. 👉 Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more HB Conversations with industry leaders! #JacobKhan #HairEducation #SocialMediaSuccess #HairdresserLife #HB
48 min
December 04, 2024 Episode # 331: Ashley Mooney CEO of ARETÉ
In this episode of Hb Conversations, Gerard Scarpaci sits down with Ashley Mooney to discuss Areté, a groundbreaking beauty brand focused on sustainability and innovation for hair professionals. Ashley shares her journey from intern to CEO and the inspiration behind creating Areté, a brand that champions clean, high-performance products while staying true to the needs of stylists and their clients. They dive into industry trends like scalp care, the importance of balancing artistry with sustainability, and how mentorship and collaboration shape the future of the beauty world. Don't miss this conversation full of passion, purpose, and practical insights.
45 min
November 06, 2024 Episode #330: Carlos Rojas (@colorbycarlos), Schwarzkopf Professional Digital Artistic Team
At age 29, Carlos Rojas (@colorbycarlos) shifted gears into hairdressing. His years in the food service industry served him well—as did his touch of theatrical flair. Now Carlos is one of the industry's most relatable voices. Carlos discusses how inspiration in the moment helps him craft his Instagram and TikTok posts, which blend education with comedy and resonate deeply with hairdressers and clients alike. He also talks about @schwarzkopfusa's versatile IGORA COLOR10 range and explores how his content showcases its many uses, beyond just quick root touch-ups.
53 min
October 20, 2024 Episode #329: Stef Fox and Jen Baudier, Co-founders of @mymatchable
Connections build opportunities, and no other industry proves that point more than the hairdressing industry. In this episode, we're joined by @stef_fox and @jenbaudier, co-founders of Talent Match (@mymatchable), a groundbreaking platform that works like a dating app to match salon owners and hairdressers. Learn how they're using data to solve the industry's biggest hiring challenges, the lessons they've learned along the way, and what's next for this innovative tool. Whether you're a salon owner or a stylist, this episode is packed with ways to help you find the perfect match.
51 min
October 13, 2024 Episode #328: Ian Mayer-Marszalek, @schwarzkopfusa Senior National Trainer
In this episode, we chat with Ian Mayer-Marszalek @ianhairspray, Senior National Trainer for Schwarzkopf Professional, about his journey from hairdresser to educator. Ian shares insights on career paths beyond the salon chair and how he's reshaping education by adapting to hairdressers' needs. We also explore the science behind Schwarzkopf's Fibre Clinix range, designed for personalized hair care, and dive into their latest innovations like anti-yellow toning drops and bonding oils. Plus, Ian shares expert tips on how to choose and use these oils based on hair type.
48 min
September 15, 2024 Episode #327, Ben White (@benmichahwhite), Fancy Hairdresser
A quick glance at Ben White's Instagram bio (@benmichahwhite) reveals his unique perspective. From his tongue-out profile pic to identifying his business as a Grocery Store, you can immediately sense Ben's irreverent approach to life. In this episode, we explore how his creative mind works, how his background as a musician and singer (he's in three bands!) has shaped his outlook on hairdressing, and what surprises he has in store for the lucky hairdressers attending Hb Fest. (Hint: It may involve giving away some @babylissprousa tools!)

48 min
August 29, 2024 Episode #326: Brittany Byrd, Owner of Blondify Studio
In this episode, Brittany Bird @blondebybritt, owner of @blondifystudio, discusses the growing trend of clients taking to social media to criticize their hairdressers—whether justified or not. Brittany recently faced a viral TikTok post from a client upset about pricing, but thanks to her well-established systems, she was able to post a detailed rebuttal that protected her reputation. Together, Gerard and Brittany explore the importance of having strong systems in place to safeguard your business against online backlash and share tips on how to navigate the challenges of social media.

56 min

About Hairbrained Conversations

From the publisher's feed

A weekly podcast that takes a deep dive into the minds of some of the most talented artists, educators, influencers, and leaders in the professional salon industry. Hosted by Gerard Scarpaci,…