In this bonus episode of The Business of Hair podcast, we sit down with Maya Smith, CEO and Co-Founder of The Doux - the game-changing, award-winning brand behind the #1 best-selling Black-owned styling foam in the nation.

With nearly 30 years in cosmetology, Maya has redefined the art of caring for curly and coily hair, blending salon-quality results with the vibrancy of 90’s hip-hop and a deep love for textured hair. From starting a salon in Germany while supporting her military-deployed husband to building a cult-favorite brand stocked on the shelves of Target, Walmart, and beyond, Maya shares the behind-the-scenes journey of scaling with authenticity, scientific precision, and community at the core.

She opens up about what it truly takes to lead in the textured hair industry, why staying true to your mission is the ultimate marketing strategy, and how to honor the beauty of textured hair while creating something bigger than yourself.

If you’re a hairstylist, entrepreneur, or creative looking to build something that lasts, this conversation is your permission slip to think bigger while staying grounded in your purpose.

Watch The Business of Hair podcast on:

YouTube: https://youtube.com/@tressly?si=mNwC_Wq9Dq9iPE1v

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/gh/podcast/the-business-of-hair/id1812464746

Follow us on:

Instagram: @tress.ly

Follow Maya:

Instagram: @ouidoux

For questions, sponsorships, or partnerships:

Email: [email protected]

In this episode of The Business of Hair Podcast, we sit down with Sashe Amari, founder of Sasheamari and a renowned knotless and boho braids expert and educator.

Sashe shares how she transitioned from working as a qualified nurse to building a braiding business that’s redefining the textured hair space. She talks about what it takes to refine your craft, the mindset shifts that helped her navigate the early stages of her business, and why education is a non-negotiable for any stylist looking to level up.

Whether you're a braider, stylist, or creative entrepreneur, this conversation will leave you inspired to pursue your passion with intention while creating opportunities for others along the way.

Watch the Business of Hair podcast on:

YouTube: https://youtube.com/@tressly?si=mNwC_Wq9Dq9iPE1v

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/gh/podcast/the-business-of-hair/id1812464746

Follow us on:

Instagram: @tress.ly

Follow Sashe:

Instagram: @sasheamari

For questions, sponsorships, or partnerships:
Email: [email protected]

In this episode, we sit down with Mary Adekoya, the visionary founder of Papachichistyle, the UK-based luxury wig and hair extensions brand known for flawless, undetectable installs and meticulously crafted wigs. Her work has graced countless clients, including high-profile names, such as Nicki Minaj and Sabrina Elba.

Mary shares her journey from styling hair in her neighbourhood to building a global hair brand, the lessons she’s learned about quality, customer experience, and marketing, and how she’s scaled Papachichistyle into the thriving business it is today.

If you're a hairstylist looking to elevate your craft, or a creative entrepreneur aiming to build a brand with longevity, this conversation is packed with gems.

Watch The Business of Hair podcast on:

YouTube: https://youtube.com/@tressly?si=LaLz12gcpgWFl3cy

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/gh/podcast/the-business-of-hair/id1812464746

Follow us on:
Instagram: @tress.ly

Follow Mary:
Instagram: @papachichistyle

Feel free to send your questions, sponsorships or partnership inquiries to:
Email: [email protected]

In this episode of The Business of Hair podcast, we sit down with Rufina Stuart, session stylist and founder of Reformed Hair.From styling celebrities like Tems, Julie Adenuga, and Amaarae to working on sets across the industry, Rufina shares her journey into session styling and what it really takes to build a sustainable career as a hairstylist today.She opens up about why having multiple streams of income is essential in the hair industry, how she’s navigated the challenges of freelance life, and the lessons she’s learned building a career on her own terms.If you’re a stylist looking to expand your income, step into session work, or build a career that aligns with your lifestyle, this conversation is for you.Watch The Business of Hair podcast on:YouTube: https://open.spotify.com/show/3js6CjBAbCSqKIQ3lXSlUe?si=8mtq7BC_STG7eg-5DcUs0A

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/gh/podcast/the-business-of-hair/id1812464746Follow us on Instagram: @tress.lyFollow Rufina: @reformedhairFor questions, sponsorships, or partnerships, please email: [email protected]

In this week’s episode of The Business of Hair, we're joined by Claire Martin - hairstylist, educator, and entrepreneur on a mission to change the textured hair industry from the inside out.

She shares her journey from behind the chair to building a trusted brand, how she’s landed major ambassador deals, and why she insured her hands as they are her “money-makers.”

Watch The Business of Hair podcast on:

YouTube: https://youtube.com/@tressly?si=uNCwCxF7gyA58jJW

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/gh/podcast/the-business-of-hair/id1812464746

Follow us on:

Instagram: @tress.ly

Follow Claire:

Instagram: @claire_the_curl_therapist

Feel free to send your questions, sponsorships or partnerships inquiries to:

Email: [email protected]

In this episode, we sit down with Deborah - the brilliant mind and hands behind DL Bridal, a luxury bridal hairstyling brand that's become a go-to name for elegant, timeless looks. Her works have been featured in Vogue, Brides, Tatler and more.

Deborah shares the story behind her journey into bridal hair, how she’s built a trusted brand in the wedding industry, and what it takes to grow a sustainable business in such a high-stakes space.

If you're a hairstylist curious about bridal, or a creative ready to scale your brand with intention, this conversation is full of gems.

Watch to The Business of Hair podcast on:

YouTube: https://youtube.com/@tressly?si=uNCwCxF7gyA58jJW

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/gh/podcast/the-business-of-hair/id1812464746

Follow us on:

Instagram: @tress.ly

Follow Deborah:

Instagram: @dl_bridal

Feel free to send your questions, sponsorships or partnerships inquiries to:

Email: [email protected]

In the second episode of The Business of Hair podcast, we’re joined by Tracey Amaka - Founder of The Headdress and an advocate for education in the hair industry.

From turning Instagram into her portfolio to building a brand rooted in purpose. In this episode, she speaks candidly about aligning with your aesthetic, and why getting educated is one of the best things you can do for your craft.

Whether you're just starting out or looking to elevate your business, Tracey’s story is packed with insights on growth, visibility, and staying grounded in your “why.”

Watch The Business of Hair podcast on:

YouTube: https://youtube.com/@tressly?si=JY04sQgUCVfwAd7x

Follow us on:

Instagram: @tress.ly

Follow Tracey:

@theheaddress

Feel free to send your questions, sponsorships or partnership inquiries to:

Email: [email protected]

In this debut episode of The Business of Hair podcast, we sit down with Aminata Kamara - International Hair Artist & Educator, and creative force behind Aminata Creative. From styling for Dior, Louis Vuitton, and Chanel to championing textured hair on global runways, Aminata shares her journey of resilience, reinvention and representation.

Discover how she transitioned from braiding in her community to leading backstage at Fashion Weeks, and her insights on building a brand that resonates. Aminata opens up about the importance of building a personal brand, shaping culture, and the power of creating opportunities.

Whether you're a hairstylist, entrepreneur, or creative, this conversation offers valuable lessons on navigating the industry with authenticity and purpose.

Listen to The Business of Hair podcast on:

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3js6CjBAbCSqKIQ3lXSlUe?si=cHeIQxepQZ-_J3w8EZfSLQ

Follow us on:

Instagram: @tress.ly

Follow Aminata:

Instagram: @aminatacreative

Feel free to send your questions, sponsorships or partnerships inquiries to:

Email: [email protected]

Welcome to The Business of Hair Podcast with Antoinette Ale!
A space created for hairstylists and entrepreneurs in the Afro hair industry who are ready to build, scale, and thrive.

Each episode is packed with real, unfiltered conversations, practical business gems, and stories you’ll actually relate to -all from voices that get it.

Whether you're behind the chair or building your empire, this podcast is your new favorite business bestie.

New episodes drop biweekly🤍