In this illuminating episode of The Detangled Podcast, hosts Jacqui McIntosh and Louis Driver are joined by industry educator and author Sandra Gittens. With a legacy spanning over three decades, Sandra shares invaluable insights into the evolution of textured hair education, highlighting the historical gaps in Afro hair training and the progress made in raising industry standards. From her experience writing the UK's first dedicated Afro hair curriculum to pushing for inclusive qualifications, Sandra offers a powerful perspective on where the industry has been—and where it needs to go.

Key Topics Covered

• The absence of Afro and textured hair in historical training manuals and qualification standards
• Sandra’s journey in developing the first NVQ units for Afro hair in the UK
• How miseducation impacts client experiences and stylist confidence
• Why inclusive education must be central to all hair training programmes
• A discussion on the cultural significance of Afro hair and why representation matters
• What still needs to change in product development, education, and professional attitudes

Hero Products & Pro Tips

• Sandra emphasises the importance of understanding hair texture and porosity over simply focusing on curl patterns
• Advice for educators: “Embed textured hair into every unit—don't bolt it on.”
• For stylists: Ongoing education is key. “Never stop learning, because textured hair is always evolving.”

Stay Connected:

If you enjoyed this episode, follow, subscribe, and leave us a review. Join the conversation with us on social media:

Avlon Europe: @avlonuk Avlon: @avlon

Hosts: Jacqui McIntosh – @jacqui.mcintosh Louis Driver – @louisdoeshair

Guest: Sandra Gittes – @hannahmarciaa

Production Credits

Producers: Louis Driver & Jacqui McIntosh

Recorded at: London Podcast Studios @londonpodcaststudios

Cover Artwork Illustration: Habiba Nabisubi @bibanabi

Cover Design: Louis Driver

Website: www.avloneurope.co.uk

In this episode of The Detangled Podcast by Avlon, hosts Louis Driver and Jacqui McIntosh are joined by Aycan Kemal, owner of New York Hair Design, and returning guest Lathaniel Chambers for a rich and inspiring conversation on protective styling, braiding techniques, and natural haircare culture. Aycan shares her phenomenal 25-year journey in the textured hair industry, including her Guinness World Record for the fastest braiding, and her passion for competition styling. Together with Lathaniel, they unpack what makes a style truly protective, how to maintain scalp health, and why natural hair trends are evolving for the better. From award-winning artistry to salon best practices, this episode is packed with insights for professionals and enthusiasts alike.

Key Topics Covered

• Defining Protective Styling: Tension, technique, and how to avoid long-term damage.
• Braiding Techniques & Style Trends: Including boho braids, knotless styles, and Fulani-inspired patterns.
• Aycan’s Career & Accolades: From opening her salon in 2000 to entering the Hall of Fame and setting a Guinness World Record.
• Product Knowledge & Texture Focus: Tailoring treatments to Type 3 & Type 4 curls, plus insider product tips.
• Scalp Health & Maintenance: How to manage braids between salon visits without compromising style longevity.
• Salon Culture & the Natural Hair Movement: Embracing authenticity, inclusivity, and the evolving expectations of textured hair clients.

Stay Connected:

If you enjoyed this episode, follow, subscribe, and leave us a review. Join the conversation with us on social media:

Avlon Europe: @avlonuk Avlon: @avlon

Hosts: Jacqui McIntosh – @jacqui.mcintosh Louis Driver – @louisdoeshair

Guests: Aycan Kemal: @nyhairdesign Lathaniel Chambers: @thehairmechanicldn

Production Credits

Producers: Louis Driver & Jacqui McIntosh

Recorded at: London Podcast Studios @londonpodcaststudios

Cover Artwork Illustration: Habiba Nabisubi @bibanabi

Cover Design: Louis Driver

Website: www.avloneurope.co.uk

In this informative solo episode of The Detangled Podcast, co-host Jacqui McIntosh is joined by Avlon educator Hannah Marcia for a deep dive into the foundations of curly and coily haircare. Whether you're just beginning your natural hair journey or refining your routine, this episode is packed with practical advice, product recommendations, and professional insight into caring for textured hair.

Together, Jacqui and Hannah explore the science behind curls and coils, the importance of recognising hair's individual needs, and how to select the right products based on porosity, density, and lifestyle. They also unpack the role of curl typing, how to apply product effectively, and how social media has shaped (and sometimes confused) the conversation around natural hair.

Expect real talk, expert guidance, and empowering advice to help listeners feel more confident about their hair and routines.

Key Topics Covered

• Understanding the structure of curly and coily hair
• Why porosity, not just curl type, matters
• The pros and pitfalls of curl typing
• How to build an effective haircare routine
• Clarifying the role of leave-ins, mousses, gels, and more
• Insights into co-washing and scalp health
• Social media’s influence on curl care
• Embracing volume vs. definition
• Transparent, honest hair consultations

Stay Connected:

If you enjoyed this episode, follow, subscribe, and leave us a review. Join the conversation with us on social media:

Avlon Europe: @avlonuk Avlon: @avlon

Hosts: Jacqui McIntosh – @jacqui.mcintosh Louis Driver – @louisdoeshair

Guest: Hannah Marcia – @hannahmarciaa

Production Credits

Producers: Louis Driver & Jacqui McIntosh

Recorded at: London Podcast Studios @londonpodcaststudios

Cover Artwork Illustration: Habiba Nabisubi @bibanabi

Cover Design: Louis Driver

Website: www.avloneurope.co.uk

In this deep-dive episode, hosts Louis Driver and Jacqui McIntosh sit down with Lathaniel Chambers, one of Avlon’s longest-standing educators, to explore the story behind the brand. Together, they reflect on Avlon’s legacy in textured haircare—from its game-changing product innovations to its science-led, family-run foundations.

The conversation spans decades of hair history, from the launch of the Affirm Relaxer system to the rise of the natural hair movement and the formulation of bestsellers like 'As I Am' and 'Uberliss'. Jacqui and Lathaniel share personal anecdotes, professional milestones, and why working with Avlon continues to inspire their practice today. With a strong focus on integrity, innovation, and education, this episode celebrates the values that have made Avlon a global name in textured haircare.

Key Topics Covered

• The history and ethos behind Avlon
• Game-changing product launches: Affirm, Fiber Guard, As I Am, Uberliss
• The influence of Dr. Ali N. Syed and the power of science in haircare
• Personal journeys of long-term Avlon educators
• Education, integrity, and innovation in product development
• Sustainability, ingredient transparency, and product testing
• The importance of professional guidance and product retail in salons

Stay Connected

Follow the hosts: Louis Driver: @louisdoeshair Jacqui McIntosh: @jacqui.mcintosh

Follow Avlon: Avlon Europe: @avloneurope Avlon: @avlon

Connect with our guest: Lathaniel Chambers: @lathanielscouture

Production Credits

Producers: Louis Driver & Jacqui McIntosh

Recorded at: London Podcast Studios @londonpodcaststudios

Cover Artwork Illustration: Habiba Nabisubi @bibanabi

Cover Design: Louis Driver

www.avloneurope.co.uk

In this foundational episode, we introduce you to the rest of the talented education team behind Avlon Education — Lathaniel Chambers, Hannah Marcia, and Pashcan’el Mitchell. Join us for a roundtable conversation spotlighting each guest’s expertise, career journey, passions, and what makes them shine in the professional hair industry.

Discover each educator’s "zone of genius," the hero products they swear by, their go-to hair hacks, and the icons who inspire their work. Plus, hear their thoughts on the power of sharing knowledge through podcasting — and what exciting projects are on the horizon.

Key Topics Covered

• Meet the Avlon Education team and explore their career highlights
• Areas of expertise and what they’re best known for
• Hero products from Avlon’s professional portfolio
• Pro tips, hair hacks, and insider techniques
• Creative influences and upcoming projects
• The importance of education in the beauty and hair industry

Stay Connected

If you enjoyed today’s episode, don’t forget to follow, subscribe, and leave a review. Join the conversation with us on social media:

Avlon Europe: @avlonuk

Avlon: @avlon

Follow our incredible guests:

Lathaniel: @lathanielscouture

Hannah: @hannahmarciaa

Pash: @pashcanel

Hosts:

Jacqui McIntosh: @jacqui.mcintosh

Louis Driver: @louisdoeshair

Production Credits

Producers: Louis Driver & Jacqui McIntosh

Recorded at: London Podcast Studios

Cover Artwork Illustration: Habiba Nabisubi @bibanabi

Cover Design: Louis Driver

In this honest first episode, Louis and Jacqui reflect on what led them to create The Detangled Podcast, their journeys in the industry, and the importance of passing knowledge on. Drawing on years of professional experience, cultural insight, and personal passion, they explore the need for honest, accessible conversations around textured haircare and education.

Louis and Jacqui discuss the evolving nature of the hair industry, the challenges around misinformation, and the importance of creating a platform for sharing lived experience and professional knowledge. They reflect on their own journeys, the impact of working with Avlon, and their favourite hero products from the brand’s portfolio.

This episode sets the tone for the series — open, educational, and rooted in authenticity — while inviting listeners into a space built for hair professionals and curious consumers alike.

Key Topics Covered

• The origins and purpose of The Detangled Podcast
• Career journeys of the hosts and their paths into education
• Misconceptions around curly and textured hair
• The importance of inclusivity and accessible knowledge
• Favourite Avlon products and how they support healthy hair
• What drives their continued passion for the industry
• Building a space for reflection, growth, and professional pride

Stay Connected

Follow the hosts:

• Louis Driver: @louisdoeshair
• Jacqui McIntosh: @jacqui.mcintosh

Follow Avlon:

• Avlon Europe: @Avloneurope
• Avlon: @Avlon

Production Credits

• Producers: Louis Driver & Jacqui McIntosh
• Recorded at: London Podcast Studios
• Cover Artwork Illustration: Habiba Nabisubi @bibanabi
• Cover Design: Louis Driver

www.avloneurope.co.uk

Welcome to The Detangled Podcast by Avlon—your go-to podcast for all things curly, coily, and textured hair. Hosted by Jacqui McIntosh and Louis Driver, we’re here to provide conversations that educate, empower, and inspire. Whether you're just starting your curly hair journey or you’re a seasoned pro, The Detangled Podcast will help you navigate everything from hair care to the latest trends in the textured hair space.

In this trailer, we’re giving you a sneak peek into the exciting, informative, and entertaining episodes we have in store. Join us as we dive into the science, care, and celebration of textured hair, while sharing tips, expert insights, and product recommendations.

Stay tuned for our upcoming episodes.

• Hosts: Jacqui McIntosh @jacqui.mcintosh & Louis Driver @louisdoeshair
• Theme: Textured hair care, Hair education, empowerment, and inspiration
• What to Expect: Expert conversations on curly hair care, coily hair care, scalp health, product advice, and the science of textured hair. We’ll discuss the latest trends in curly hair styling, scalp care tips, and much more.
• Call to Action: Don’t forget to subscribe, and follow us on social media for all the latest updates.

Follow Us:

• Instagram: @avlonuk. @avlon
• Facebook: Avlon UK
• Website: Avlon.com