In this episode of Trendy with Kim Allison, Kim sits down with her longtime friend and master stylist Martha Howard of Marvelous U Styles - a beauty pro with 30+ years behind the chair and a story packed with lessons for the next generation.
Martha shares how hair “found” her at just 11 years old (yes, at a Vidal Sassoon salon in California), what it was like navigating beauty school and early salon life without a true mentor, and why taking your education into your own hands can change everything. From leveling up with advanced training to pivoting deeper into natural hair and curl-focused work, Martha breaks down the real-life choices that shape a long, sustainable career in beauty.
They also get into the culture and history behind natural hair conversations, how trends cycle through decades, the pressure of social media, and the mindset shifts that help stylists avoid burnout. Plus, Martha opens up about her cancer journey, what it taught her, and why your inner confidence matters just as much as the curls.
🎯 Connect with Martha
Website: www.marvelousustyles.com
Instagram: @marvelousustyles
TikTok: @marvelous397
Facebook: Marvelous U Styles
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TIME STAMPS:
00:00 – Welcome + Introducing Martha Howard
01:28 – How hair found Martha at age 11
04:31 – College, feeling lost, and choosing beauty school
07:16 – Early salon experiences + the reality of assisting
09:17 – Finding her foundation and investing in education
12:58 – What still excites her after 30+ years behind the chair
13:33 – Pivoting into natural hair + curl work
17:47 – Hair history, relaxers, and cultural context
23:43 – Natural & Professional: building community and education
24:14 – Cancer journey and health conversations in the industry
28:32 – Speaking, Cupcakes & Conversations, and using her voice
29:51 – Life outside hair: baking, line dancing, and karaoke
40:43 – Advice for newbies: education, mentorship, and burnout
49:40 – 60 Second Blowout
51:17 – Where to find Martha + closing