Welcome to part 4/5 of a 5-part series on the ongoing evolution of specific segments of the pro salon industry. This week, I share observations on both the history (the abridged version for some context) and current state of both segments; and ask what I hope are thought-provoking questions related to the future of each. 

Past episodes in the series (#'s 6, 8 & 10) offer my take on the state of the media, events & online learning categories- and where each might be headed in the future. For early access to future episodes, please visit www.socialbeautymakers.com and sign up for the free weekly e-newsletter.

Jack Howard and Gordon share their perspectives on being outwardly gay men in the professional beauty industry - in the past, the present, and their hopes for the future.  A renowned colorist, educator, @LorealPro brand ambassador, and out and proud gay man, Jack shares his unique take on the topic as well as an update as to his big year ahead.

Adding iconic global business coach Antony Whitaker, (@growmysalonbusiness) to my typically solo midweek episode - to catch up on the quickly evolving global conversation about the pros, cons, and realities of artificial intelligence -and what it may (or may not) mean for the professional salon industry. 

As the controversy settles down around this not-so-new larger form of tech, it’s time (and ‘fun’) to further imagine its possible impact on salons, pros, and our clients. 

Twenty fast-paced minutes with fellow podcasters Corey Gray and Tony Stuart on what it takes to succeed - as hairdressers, salon owners, or podcasters. The "Your Day Off Podcast" hosts share the story behind their successful podcast plus key lessons learned during their 30-year careers behind the chair -including the need to "stick with it" and have perseverance to the importance of showing up and finding support and mentorship. Listen to the end to get details about their 3rd annual Presley Poe and Friends event featuring some of the biggest names in beauty! 

A quick take on the never-ending conversation about what many within the industry perceive as the negative image of professionals (in the mind of the larger public); as well as what Gordon views as the misunderstood state of the labor market for salons. To be more specific, he asks the question: do we have a shortage of professionals - or clients? For more, please visit www.socialbeautymakers.com and sign up for our free weekly e-newsletter (as well as for early access to future podcast episodes).

Here to talk about pushing past the 'shackles' that hold most of us back in career and life, @DavidThurstonOfficial is known as an innovator. From Butterfly Lofts and Butterfly Circus (changing how many think about both suites and education) to becoming co-founder and now former CEO of Pulp Riot, David has been at the forefront of change for some time. His newest passion, @DangerJonesCreative, will launch its new color line on 4/1/2023 - in over 1200 stores with Cosmo Prof, Armstrong McCall & Modern Beauty! Next up: The Danger Jones Clothing line! Stay tuned for updates.

Salon owner, educator, brand advocate (SalonCentric & Authentic Beauty Concepts), & renowned curl specialist Evan Joseph @evanjosephcurls shares his perspective on the power of "niches" -and becoming an expert at your craft in a post-pandemic world. Evan has had a unique journey to prominence in the industry and shares some of the big ideas that helped him find his way to success.

Note: the title is a play off a podcast titled “F**K Retail” that left me angst-filled. I'm pausing my Future View series to rant on the larger idea of 'fake beauty news' - something that feels like a mirror image of disinformation in the larger world (that most on all sides of politics agree exists). A rebuttal of anti in-salon retail arguments is my primary focus - as most of those arguments are based on reasons that don't align with the larger reality. Although it is estimated that just 20% generate 80% of the $3+ billion in annual retail sales thru salons, there is clearly an opportunity to win for those who are up for learning the business side of salon retail. Tune in for more.

In this episode, Part 2 of a talk that began with Mindset, @TabathaCoffey digs into the meaning and importance of Mindfulness as a follow-up and a bit of a contrast to Part 1. One of the most iconic names in all of pro beauty, Tabatha is a self-described "Truth Teller, Dream Chaser, And Coach For Women Just Like You". For more about Tabatha, follow her on IG or visit www.tabathcoffey.com

Welcome to the 3rd in a 5-part series on the ongoing evolution of specific segments of the pro salon industry. In past episodes, I've talked about Media and Online Learning - and today will talk about the pro salon events space. In each episode, I share findings around the specific category coming out of my many pandemic-time talks with a large and diverse number of professionals. In parts 4 and 5, I will be talking about Distribution and Brands respectively - from the point of view of pro feedback. For more, please visit www.socialbeautymakers.com and sign up for our free weekly e-newsletter (as well as for early access to future podcast episodes).