In this episode of The VIP Suite, host Matthew Landis sits down with Jen Lydick, owner of Lydick Label Permanent Cosmetics at IMAGE Studios in Reno, Nevada. Jen pulls back the curtain on one of the most high-trust corners of the beauty industry—permanent cosmetics—where clients literally put their faces in your hands. She shares how the industry has evolved from heavy-handed, “Sharpie brow” techniques to today’s delicate, natural, and highly technical approach, and why lack of regulation means client education and research are more important than ever. Jen also breaks down how skin type, age, and technique impact long-term results, and what to look for when choosing an artist or an educator.

Beyond the brows, Jen talks about building a sustainable, in-demand business rooted in integrity, boundaries, and trust. She walks us through her transition from hairstylist and makeup artist to fully booked permanent cosmetics specialist, how she priced and raised her rates with confidence, and why she’s unapologetic about saying no to red-flag clients. Jen also shares how she restructured her schedule to work just three days a week, homeschool her kids, and still keep a thriving business. Whether you’re an artist considering permanent cosmetics, an independent beauty pro building your brand, or a client thinking about your first brow appointment, this episode is packed with honest, practical insights on business, boundaries, and doing work you truly love.

Follow Jen on Instagram at @lydicklabel.permanentcosmetics or ok TikTok: @jenlydick. You can also check out her website: lydicklabel.com.

The VIP Suite is the official podcast of IMAGE Studios, created for independent beauty, health, and wellness professionals who want to grow their businesses and thrive in salon suite life. Hosted by Director of Education, Matthew Landis, each episode shares real success stories, marketing tips, and business strategies from top beauty entrepreneurs and wellness leaders.

Episodes are sponsored by GlossGenius, the all-in-one salon software. Learn more at glossgenius.com. Episodes are also sponsored by Elite Beauty Society, providing business and long-term career support to beauty & wellness professionals. Learn more at elitebeautyins.com/IMAGE.

Don’t forget to follow, rate, and review the show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen. Connect with us on Instagram @imagestudios360 and visit imagestudios360.com for more information about IMAGE Studios luxury salon suites. New episodes drop every two week. Subscribe to hear how beauty and wellness professionals like you are building powerful, independent careers.

Matthew sits down with Todd Peckham, hairstylist at IMAGE Studios Denver and Denver drag legend, to unpack what it takes to run multiple creative careers at a high level. From course corrections and happy accident, to the non‑negotiable power of being on time, Todd shares the habits that built a loyal clientele over decades. He explains why solid fundamentals, honest communication, and never faking it are the real secrets behind great hair and a fully booked schedule.

Todd also takes us behind the lashes into the world of Daniella DeCoteau, his drag persona and the star of Denver’s beloved Drag Stravaganza cabaret. He talks about growing up as the “gay kid” in a tiny Colorado town, inheriting a relentless work ethic from his father, and learning to turn desire and perseverance into sold‑out shows, four times a year, at ever-bigger venues. From navigating family dynamics (including a late‑in‑life revelation about his dad) to building community through drag, Todd shows how creativity, resilience and a bit of small‑town gumption can turn a studio and a stage into a life you can’t believe is yours.

Whether you’re an independent beauty and wellness pro, an aspiring drag artist, or just someone trying to juggle multiple passions, this conversation is a masterclass in owning your mistakes, honoring your time and letting your most amplified self lead the way behind the chair and under the spotlight.

The VIP Suite is the official podcast of IMAGE Studios, created for independent beauty, health, and wellness professionals who want to grow their businesses and thrive in salon suite life. Hosted by Director of Education, Matthew Landis, each episode shares real success stories, marketing tips, and business strategies from top beauty entrepreneurs and wellness leaders.

Episodes are sponsored by GlossGenius, the all-in-one salon software. Learn more at glossgenius.com. Episodes are also sponsored by Elite Beauty Society, providing business and long-term career support to beauty & wellness professionals. Learn more at elitebeautyins.com/IMAGE.

Don’t forget to follow, rate, and review the show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen. Connect with us on Instagram @imagestudios360 and visit imagestudios360.com for more information about IMAGE Studios luxury salon suites. New episodes drop every two week. Subscribe to hear how beauty and wellness professionals like you are building powerful, independent careers.

In this episode of The VIP Suite, Matthew Landis sits down with Leila Macias, licensed aesthetician, CIDESCO diplomat, and owner of Esthetics Café at IMAGE Studios Poway, CA. Leila specializes in results-driven acne treatments. She shares how a single, unforgettable teenage pimple sparked a lifelong passion for skincare, ingredient deep-dives, and personalized treatment plans. Drawing from her love of coffee, Leila created the Esthetics Café brand to mirror the idea that, just like coffee, there is no “one-size-fits-all” facial—every client’s skin recipe is unique.

Leila also dives into her philosophy of simple, approachable education, breaking down complex science into language clients can actually use. She talks about building client confidence (including nervous teen boys), setting clear boundaries and consent around social media and photos, and being intentional about tone, communication, and first impressions, especially with intimate services like waxing. You’ll hear how she plans her Instagram content a month at a time, protects client privacy, busts common skincare myths (including high-number SPF), and channels the emotional weight of client stories into her next big goal: becoming an esthetic nurse. This is a must-listen for any beauty or wellness pro who wants to combine technical skill, heart, and strategy to build a business that truly transforms lives.

Catch Leila on Instagram is @esthetics_cafe

The VIP Suite is the official podcast of IMAGE Studios, created for independent beauty, health, and wellness professionals who want to grow their businesses and thrive in salon suite life. Hosted by Director of Education, Matthew Landis, each episode shares real success stories, marketing tips, and business strategies from top beauty entrepreneurs and wellness leaders.

Episodes are sponsored by GlossGenius, the all-in-one salon software. Learn more at glossgenius.com. Episodes are also sponsored by Elite Beauty Society, providing business and long-term career support to beauty & wellness professionals. Learn more at elitebeautyins.com/IMAGE.

Don’t forget to follow, rate, and review the show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen. Connect with us on Instagram @imagestudios360 and visit imagestudios360.com for more information about IMAGE Studios luxury salon suites. New episodes drop every two week. Subscribe to hear how beauty and wellness professionals like you are building powerful, independent careers.

In this episode of The VIP Suite at IMAGE Studios, Director of Education Matthew Landis sits down with Omaha-based hairstylist and content creator Jayden Randels, an IMAGE Studios La Vista Pro who went from hair school graduate to fully booked in under a year. Jayden shares how a last-minute decision to join a friend in hair school turned into a career he loves, why entering Behind the Chair’s One Shot student competition changed everything, and how networking with top artists and mentors accelerated his growth. Matthew and Jayden break down what it really means to be your own boss early in your career, and how suite ownership has given Jayden the freedom and runway to chase big opportunities.

They also dive deep into social media strategy, fear, and authenticity. Jayden reveals how he’s been building his brand since age 11, why a single “rage-bait” viral video filmed in a Nebraska cornfield now accounts for roughly 80% of his clientele, and how he uses filming and editing as a tool to improve his craft behind the chair. From overcoming the fear of looking stupid, to using humor and imperfection to build trust, to why he’s over AI-heavy, overly polished content, Jayden offers real, actionable insight for independent pros at any stage. If you’ve ever wondered how to show up online in a way that feels real, sustainable, and profitable—this conversation is your new playbook. 

You can find Jayden on Instagram: @jaydenrandels

The VIP Suite is the official podcast of IMAGE Studios, created for independent beauty, health, and wellness professionals who want to grow their businesses and thrive in salon suite life. Hosted by Director of Education, Matthew Landis, each episode shares real success stories, marketing tips, and business strategies from top beauty entrepreneurs and wellness leaders.

Episodes are sponsored by GlossGenius, the all-in-one salon software. Learn more at glossgenius.com. Episodes are also sponsored by Elite Beauty Society, providing business and long-term career support to beauty & wellness professionals. Learn more at elitebeautyins.com/IMAGE.

Don’t forget to follow, rate, and review the show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen. Connect with us on Instagram @imagestudios360 and visit imagestudios360.com for more information about IMAGE Studios luxury salon suites. New episodes drop every two week. Subscribe to hear how beauty and wellness professionals like you are building powerful, independent careers.

Matthew sits down with globally recognized educator and founder of Hair Love University and The Vitality Project, Elizabeth Faye. Elizabeth shares her powerful journey from troubled teen and behind-the-chair stylist to trauma-informed life coach and wellness advocate for beauty and wellness pros. 

They dive into burnout, nervous system health, “trauma dumping” in the salon, why beauty and wellness professionals truly change lives, and simple, free daily practices, like breath work and meditation, that protect your energy and your business. 

Plus, get a sneak peek into the upcoming IMAGE Pro Academy Masterclass: “Burnout Proof Your Beauty and Wellness Business.”

Learn more about The Vitality Project and Hair Love University by following Elizabeth on Instagram at @heyelizabethfaye or check out her website: heyelizabethfay.com.

The VIP Suite is the official podcast of IMAGE Studios, created for independent beauty, health, and wellness professionals who want to grow their businesses and thrive in salon suite life. Hosted by Director of Education, Matthew Landis, each episode shares real success stories, marketing tips, and business strategies from top beauty entrepreneurs and wellness leaders.

Episodes are sponsored by GlossGenius, the all-in-one salon software. Learn more at glossgenius.com. Episodes are also sponsored by Elite Beauty Society, providing business and long-term career support to beauty & wellness professionals. Learn more at elitebeautyins.com/IMAGE.

Don’t forget to follow, rate, and review the show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen. Connect with us on Instagram @imagestudios360 and visit imagestudios360.com for more information about IMAGE Studios luxury salon suites. New episodes drop every two week. Subscribe to hear how beauty and wellness professionals like you are building powerful, independent careers.

In this special episode of The VIP Suite, Matthew Landis and Kenzie Bowlby unveil the highly anticipated IMAGE Pro Academy, an all-new learning platform designed to empower independent beauty and wellness professionals. 

Discover how the Academy will offer shorter, more flexible live classes; on-demand learning modules; exclusive master classes with industry leaders; and a vibrant community forum. Matthew and Kenzie share their passion for helping Pros thrive, discuss the importance of understanding your “why,” and explain how IMAGE Studios continues to evolve to meet the needs of solo entrepreneurs.

 Whether you’re brand new or a seasoned pro, learn how the IMAGE Pro Academy can help you grow your business, stay inspired, and shape a fulfilling, sustainable career. Don’t miss the details on upcoming courses and how to sign up!

The VIP Suite is the official podcast of IMAGE Studios, created for independent beauty, health, and wellness professionals who want to grow their businesses and thrive in salon suite life. Hosted by Director of Education, Matthew Landis, each episode shares real success stories, marketing tips, and business strategies from top beauty entrepreneurs and wellness leaders.

Episodes are sponsored by GlossGenius, the all-in-one salon software. Learn more at glossgenius.com. Episodes are also sponsored by Elite Beauty Society, providing business and long-term career support to beauty & wellness professionals. Learn more at elitebeautyins.com/IMAGE.

Don’t forget to follow, rate, and review the show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen. Connect with us on Instagram @imagestudios360 and visit imagestudios360.com for more information about IMAGE Studios luxury salon suites. New episodes drop every two week. Subscribe to hear how beauty and wellness professionals like you are building powerful, independent careers.

 In this episode of The VIP Suite, host Matthew Landis interviews Dr. Trayce Madre, psychologist, entrepreneur, and luxury hair brand founder. Trayce candidly shares her journey from struggle to seven-figure success, revealing how mindset, specialization, and business systems transformed her career. Discover her strategies for identifying your ideal client, perfecting client experience, and building a brand that thrives, even through setbacks. Hear about her latest projects, mentorship, upcoming classes, and her role on the entrepreneurial reality show "The Blox." This conversation is a masterclass in resilience, intentional growth, and redefining success in the beauty industry.

The VIP Suite is the official podcast of IMAGE Studios, created for independent beauty, health, and wellness professionals who want to grow their businesses and thrive in salon suite life. Hosted by Director of Education, Matthew Landis, each episode shares real success stories, marketing tips, and business strategies from top beauty entrepreneurs and wellness leaders.

Episodes are sponsored by GlossGenius, the all-in-one salon software. Learn more at glossgenius.com. Episodes are also sponsored by Elite Beauty Society, providing business and long-term career support to beauty & wellness professionals. Learn more at elitebeautyins.com/IMAGE.

Don’t forget to follow, rate, and review the show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen. Connect with us on Instagram @imagestudios360 and visit imagestudios360.com for more information about IMAGE Studios luxury salon suites. New episodes drop every two week. Subscribe to hear how beauty and wellness professionals like you are building powerful, independent careers.

Host Matthew Landis welcomes Lexi Barnett, founder of Unwind MicroSpa in Warson Woods, Missouri, to talk about turning her passion for skincare into a thriving micro-business, prioritizing results-driven relaxation and personalized client care. 

Discover Lexi’s unique touches—like her famous homemade Unwind cookies, the creation of her facial membership club, and her strategies for consistent growth through social media and community engagement. 

Whether you’re an aspiring esthetician or a seasoned professional, Lexi’s journey offers valuable lessons in entrepreneurship, self-investment, and the magic of building genuine client relationships.

Find Lexi on Instagram: @unwindmicrospa

The VIP Suite is the official podcast of IMAGE Studios, created for independent beauty, health, and wellness professionals who want to grow their businesses and thrive in salon suite life. Hosted by Director of Education, Matthew Landis, each episode shares real success stories, marketing tips, and business strategies from top beauty entrepreneurs and wellness leaders.

Episodes are sponsored by GlossGenius, the all-in-one salon software. Learn more at glossgenius.com. Episodes are also sponsored by Elite Beauty Society, providing business and long-term career support to beauty & wellness professionals. Learn more at elitebeautyins.com/IMAGE.

Don’t forget to follow, rate, and review the show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen. Connect with us on Instagram @imagestudios360 and visit imagestudios360.com for more information about IMAGE Studios luxury salon suites. New episodes drop every two week. Subscribe to hear how beauty and wellness professionals like you are building powerful, independent careers.

Matthew Landis welcomes Soula Christopulos—talented hairdresser, certified growth coach, and business consultant from IMAGE Studios in Holladay, Utah. Soula shares her 20-year journey in the beauty industry, her leap to independence, and how her passion for helping others led her to coaching and consulting. Together, they discuss the challenges beauty and wellness professionals face, from overcoming the comparison game to embracing the business side of their careers. Soula offers practical advice on goal setting, logging business details, and finding clarity when feeling stuck. The conversation also explores the power of mentorship, the importance of being present, and the joy of balancing family, travel, and personal growth. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, this episode is packed with wisdom, encouragement, and actionable tips to help you thrive—both behind the chair and beyond.

Find Soula on Instagram: @soulachristopulos 

The VIP Suite is the official podcast of IMAGE Studios, created for independent beauty, health, and wellness professionals who want to grow their businesses and thrive in salon suite life. Hosted by Director of Education, Matthew Landis, each episode shares real success stories, marketing tips, and business strategies from top beauty entrepreneurs and wellness leaders.

Episodes are sponsored by GlossGenius, the all-in-one salon software. Learn more at glossgenius.com. Episodes are also sponsored by Elite Beauty Society, providing business and long-term career support to beauty & wellness professionals. Learn more at elitebeautyins.com/IMAGE.

Don’t forget to follow, rate, and review the show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen. Connect with us on Instagram @imagestudios360 and visit imagestudios360.com for more information about IMAGE Studios luxury salon suites. New episodes drop every two week. Subscribe to hear how beauty and wellness professionals like you are building powerful, independent careers.

Host Matthew Landis sits down with Minerva O'Toole, a seasoned stylist, educator, and creative force at IMAGE Studios Warson Woods in St. Louis. Minerva shares her journey from theater and fashion to bridal and backstage at New York Fashion Week, revealing the driving forces behind her passion: endless curiosity, the pursuit of inspiration, and a deep commitment to helping others shine. The conversation delves into the importance of finding your niche, the value of mentorship, and the lessons learned from working alongside industry icons. Minerva also opens up about the challenges and rewards of balancing multiple creative paths, the role of family and community in her success, and her evolving relationship with social media as a business tool.

Listeners will discover Minerva’s unique perspective on building confidence from the inside out and her vision for leaving a legacy that celebrates inner beauty and self-expression. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, this episode offers practical wisdom, heartfelt stories, and a reminder that true success in the beauty industry is about more than just technique—it’s about connection, empathy, and empowering others to feel their best. Tune in for an honest, uplifting conversation that will leave you inspired to embrace your own journey and make a difference in your community.

Find Minerva on Instagram: @minervathehairstylist

The VIP Suite is the official podcast of IMAGE Studios, created for independent beauty, health, and wellness professionals who want to grow their businesses and thrive in salon suite life. Hosted by Director of Education, Matthew Landis, each episode shares real success stories, marketing tips, and business strategies from top beauty entrepreneurs and wellness leaders.

Episodes are sponsored by GlossGenius, the all-in-one salon software. Learn more at glossgenius.com. Episodes are also sponsored by Elite Beauty Society, providing business and long-term career support to beauty & wellness professionals. Learn more at elitebeautyins.com/IMAGE.

Don’t forget to follow, rate, and review the show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen. Connect with us on Instagram @imagestudios360 and visit imagestudios360.com for more information about IMAGE Studios luxury salon suites. New episodes drop every two week. Subscribe to hear how beauty and wellness professionals like you are building powerful, independent careers.