In this episode of Third Space Indy, host Michael Zarick talks with Alexa Hill, owner of Common Room Indy, a salon in Castleton that she describes as a “weird, gay, funky” safe space designed to feel more like a true community hub than a sterile, typical salon. They discuss the idea of “third places” and why salons naturally fit that definition through consistency, conversation, and trust. Alexa shares her 15-year journey in the hair industry, her business education, and how she ultimately took the leap from working in other salons before opening Common Room Indy.

The conversation covers how her unapologetic, values-forward presence online helped the business grow, including a viral Instagram reel that brought in like-minded stylists and clients. Michael and Alexa also talk about being explicit about political and community values, creating visibly safe spaces, supporting businesses aligned with those values, and the importance of clarity when choosing where to spend money.

00:00 Cold Open

01:29 Welcome to Third Space Indy

02:56 Meet Alexa Hill & Common Room Indy

05:45 Designing a Salon That Feels Like Home

07:47 “Therapy” in the Chair

09:17 The Gift of Gab

12:44 Why Hair Matters

17:39 From Cosmetology to Owner

20:59 Building the Team

24:18 Community Support & Local Spots

27:57 Choosing Castleton

29:16 Traffic, Parking, and Convenience

30:31 Serving Everyone

31:44 Why Hair Costs What It Costs

35:10 Hair Color Is Chemistry

36:17 Sponsor Break + Defining a ‘Third Space’

37:56 The Common Room Book Club

41:01 Indy Book Crawl

44:04 Being a Good Neighbor

46:58 Burlesque Classes at She Shop Fitness

49:31 Question for the Next Guest + Where to Find Alexa & The Common Room (Wrap-Up)