Trendy with Kim Allison

In this episode, Kim Allison sits down with master blonding specialist Amy Whitaker to unpack what blonde really looks like in 2026. From the shift away from icy, over-toned hair to the rise of buttercream, teddy bear, and cashmere glow blondes, they explain why healthy, expensive-looking hair is the new standard of luxury.

They dive into what clients are Googling, how to navigate the anti-ash conversation, and why warmth is no longer something to fear—along with bigger industry topics like silent appointments, luxury service expectations, and professional boundaries behind the chair.

The episode also features two fan-favorite games, Fix the Formula and The Consultation Carousel, plus real client questions on hair porosity, multi-session blonding, and how hair history impacts results.

A must-watch for stylists and clients who want honest insight into modern hair and luxury salon culture.

✨ Amy Whitaker – Master blonding specialist and Owner of Trend Lab Salon

Based in San Antonio, TX

IG: @hairbyamyw

TikTok: @hairbyamyw

🛍️ Shop Virtue Labs through my link:

www.virtuelabs.com/en/stylist/Kim-Allison

✅ Subscribe for more conversations with the voices reshaping the beauty industry.

Click Here For More Info: https://linktr.ee/TrendywithKimAllison

– Listen on Spotify, Apple, and all podcast platforms.

– Follow @trendywkimallison on Instagram and TikTok.

TIME STAMPS:

00:00 – Blonde in 2026: From icy trends to healthy, luxury hair

01:10 – Buttercream, teddy bear & cashmere glow blondes explained

04:10 – Why ash tones age the face (the “gray construction paper” rule)

06:20 – Modern money piece placement & lower-maintenance blonding

08:15 – Luxury hair services & evolving client expectations

09:15 – Silent appointments: helpful or harmful for long services?

14:30 – Professional boundaries: why clients aren’t your friends

18:10 – Product spotlight: Virtue Labs & real hair repair science

20:30 – Game: Fix the Formula (high-risk blonding scenario)

23:50 – Game: Consultation Carousel (TikTok-inspired client myths)

27:15 – DIY hair hacks vs licensed professionals

32:20 – Client Q&A: What hair porosity really means

36:15 – Why some hair lifts in one session—and others don’t

43:25 – Where to find Amy & closing thoughts

Follow Trendy with Kim Allison so you never miss an episode.

Have a salon story, question or topic that belongs in one of the folders? Want to be considered as a guest? Connect with Kim on Instagram at @trendywkimallison or email [email protected].

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, I’m joined by returning guest and UK hairdresser Joseph I’Anson for a real conversation on salon pricing, client expectations, and being worth what you charge — UK vs US style.

We talk luxury hair tools (are they actually worth it?), pro product favorites, education, boundaries, and why respect for the craft matters. Plus, we have some fun with British Slang: Hairdresser Edition and answer real client questions to wrap it up.

Insightful, funny, and full of pro tips you can actually use.

Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share.

✨ Joseph I’Anson – Multi award-winning hairdresser, bridal & hair-up specialist

Based in the UK

IG: @josephianson

🛍️ Shop Virtue Labs through my link:

www.virtuelabs.com/en/stylist/Kim-Allison

✅ Subscribe for more conversations with the voices reshaping the beauty industry.

Click Here For More Info: https://linktr.ee/TrendywithKimAllison

– Listen on Spotify, Apple, and all podcast platforms.

– Follow @trendywkimallison on Instagram and TikTok.

TIME STAMPS:

00:00 – Welcome & Joseph I’Anson returns

03:00 – UK vs US salon pricing & client pushback

07:00 – Respect, worth & entrepreneurship in the hair industry

12:00 – Education, training & why struggle creates better stylists

15:00 – Trendy Game: British Slang – Hairdresser Edition 🇬🇧

24:00 – Are luxury hair tools actually worth it?

30:00 – Pro tools vs at-home tools & heat education

33:00 – Virtue Labs sponsor segment

35:00 – Joseph’s Fab Five favorite tools & products

45:00 – Bridal luxury tips & finishing techniques

50:00 – Client questions (yes… including that one 😅)

53:00 – Traveling clients, gray coverage & maintenance tips

56:00 – Where to find Joseph & closing thoughts

Follow Trendy with Kim Allison so you never miss an episode.

Have a salon story, question or topic that belongs in one of the folders? Want to be considered as a guest? Connect with Kim on Instagram at @trendywkimallison or email [email protected].

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In today’s episode, I sit down with New York stylist Amanda Hyson for an honest, no sugarcoating conversation about the real cost of doing hair. We break down price shaming vs price transparency, why pricing models have changed, and what clients do not see behind the chair. Education, tools, product inflation, policies, and physical wear on the body all factor into the price. Amanda shares her journey from beauty school to booth rent, how social media became a second job, and the moment she finally charged what her work was worth. This episode is for stylists who feel the pressure and for clients who want to better understand what they are really paying for.

TIME STAMPS:

00:00 - Intro and meet Amanda Hyson

Follow Trendy with Kim Allison so you never miss an episode.

Have a salon story, question or topic that belongs in one of the folders? Want to be considered as a guest? Connect with Kim on Instagram at @trendywkimallison or email [email protected].

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, I’m joined by celebrity hairstylist Luis Miller for an honest, unfiltered conversation about hair pricing, professionalism, and why the industry is constantly being told we “charge too much.” Together, we break down client entitlement, transparency behind the chair, luxury service standards, and the real cost of education, experience, and expertise. This episode is about respect, boundaries, and understanding the value of the work we do. If you’ve ever questioned pricing in the beauty industry, this conversation is for you.

🛍️ Shop Virtue Labs through my link:

www.virtuelabs.com/en/stylist/Kim-Allison

✅ Subscribe for more conversations with the voices reshaping the beauty industry.

Click Here For More Info: https://linktr.ee/TrendywithKimAllison

– Listen on Spotify, Apple, and all podcast platforms.

– Follow @trendywkimallison on Instagram and TikTok.

Follow Trendy with Kim Allison so you never miss an episode.

Have a salon story, question or topic that belongs in one of the folders? Want to be considered as a guest? Connect with Kim on Instagram at @trendywkimallison or email [email protected].

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, I am joined by Greg Gilmore, colorist, educator, and brand ambassador for Moroccan Oil, for an honest, thought-provoking conversation about the current state of the hair industry. We talk about the growing disconnect between brands and professional stylists, why hair care is making a comeback, the role of social media in shaping fundamentals, and what’s being lost as salon culture continues to shift. Greg also shares his perspective on relaxers returning, education turning into content, pricing versus experience, and what true legacy in this industry really means. This episode is a must-watch for stylists who care about longevity, integrity, and the future of the profession.

✨ Greg Gilmore – Master colorist, educator & brand ambassador for Moroccan Oil – Based in Atlanta, GA

IG: @greg_gilmore

TikTok: @thegtouch

YouTube: Greg Gilmore Artistry

Website: www.modernhairitage.com

✅ Subscribe for more conversations with the voices reshaping the beauty industry.

Click Here For More Info: https://linktr.ee/TrendywithKimAllison

– Listen on Spotify, Apple, and all podcast platforms.

– Follow @trendywkimallison on Instagram and TikTok.

TIME STAMPS:

00:00 – Intro

00:15 – Meet Greg Gilmore

01:16 – What the industry is getting wrong

04:00 – Brands vs professional stylists

07:30 – Why clients still need experts

10:00 – Hair care, texture & relaxers returning

13:00 – Say It With Your Chest

13:05 – Skills vs branding

16:00 – Pricing, luxury & value

19:00 – Social media & lost fundamentals

24:00 – Black hair culture & representation

31:30 – Education vs content

35:30 – Longevity vs relevance

38:00 – Is the industry chaotic?

48:00 – What salon culture has lost

54:00 – Greg’s legacy & purpose

01:02:15 – Booked or Bounced

01:05:15 – What’s next for Greg

01:06:25 – Closing/Where to find Greg

01:06:55 – Outro

Follow Trendy with Kim Allison so you never miss an episode.

Have a salon story, question or topic that belongs in one of the folders? Want to be considered as a guest? Connect with Kim on Instagram at @trendywkimallison or email [email protected].

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, I’m joined by fashion expert Christine Griffith of the MONTE VISTA and Chicago Fashion Vanguard to break down the first red carpets of 2026. Together, we recap standout looks, fashion missteps, and why certain styles worked or didn’t, with me focusing on hair and Christine bringing her designer-level fashion insight.

From Danielle Brooks and Odessa A’zion to Jeff Goldblum and Michael B. Jordan, we cover the best and worst of the night and share thoughts on designers, celebrity creative directors, and what’s ahead as red carpet season continues.

✨ Christine Griffith – Creative Director, fashion strategist & retail incubator founder

Creative Director of Chicago Fashion Vanguard and the MONTE VISTA

Based in Chicago, IL

IG: @azmade_cg

the MONTE VISTA: @themontevista_chicago

✅ Subscribe for more conversations with the voices reshaping the beauty industry.

Click Here For More Info: https://linktr.ee/TrendywithKimAllison

– Listen on Spotify, Apple, and all podcast platforms.

– Follow @trendywkimallison on Instagram and TikTok.

If you’re a stylist, educator, salon owner, or beauty lover… this one is PACKED.

Grab a snack and settle in — we go deep!

TIME STAMPS:

00:00 – Intro and Christine’s fashion background

03:15 – Red carpet season kickoff and Critics’ Choice overview

06:10 – Danielle Brooks look breakdown

11:05 – Odessa A’zion standout moment

15:30 – Ego Nwodim in Carolina Herrera

19:40 – Mia Goth in Dior

23:10 – Red hair and white dress discussion

26:00 – Louis Vuitton structured looks

29:15 – Best dressed picks

32:10 – Not so fashion forward moments

38:45 – Lingerie inspired and Prada critiques

42:30 – The men who crushed the red carpet

50:05 – Worst dressed men

56:20 – Ariana Grande in archive Ferretti

01:01:45 – Teyana Taylor style shift

01:06:10 – Designers, celebrity creatives, and fashion direction

01:12:30 – What’s next in red carpet season

01:15:00 – Closing and Christine’s projects

Follow Trendy with Kim Allison so you never miss an episode.

Have a salon story, question or topic that belongs in one of the folders? Want to be considered as a guest? Connect with Kim on Instagram at @trendywkimallison or email [email protected].

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode is just me, myself, and I — walking you through my 7-Day Cortisol Reset and why I felt called to create it.

Cortisol is one of those silent hormones we don’t think about until our bodies start whispering… or yelling. As hairdressers especially, we skip meals, skip breaks, and push through more than we should — and it catches up with us.

This reset is not a diet, not a detox, just a simple nervous system care plan with both a hairdresser edition and a general edition. I’m sharing exactly what I’m doing for myself and inviting you to join me or start anytime.

Free, printable resources are available — consider this my treat. 🤍 https://tr.ee/twF8iP

YouTube: https://youtu.be/jldBayKlohY

www.kimallison.net

Please leave a 5-star review if you like this episode.

Follow Trendy with Kim Allison so you never miss an episode.

Have a salon story, question or topic that belongs in one of the folders? Want to be considered as a guest? Connect with Kim on Instagram at @trendywkimallison or email [email protected].

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Trendy With Kim Allison, I share my origin story, from changing careers later in life to building a nearly 30 year journey behind the chair.

I reflect on entrepreneurship, growth, and what it really takes to succeed in the beauty industry, then answer real questions from stylists in this Ask Kim Anything segment.

Along with advice on how long to give a salon before deciding it is not the right fit, how to raise your prices with confidence, and when it is okay to let a client go.

This episode is for anyone navigating their path in hair, whether you are just starting out or redefining your next chapter.

Have a question for me?

Submit it at www.kimallison.net or DM @trendywkimallison on Instagram and TikTok!

✅ Subscribe for more conversations with the voices reshaping the beauty industry.

Click Here For More Info: https://linktr.ee/TrendywithKimAllison

– Listen on Spotify, Apple, and all podcast platforms.

– Follow @trendywkimallison on Instagram and TikTok.

Follow Trendy with Kim Allison so you never miss an episode.

Have a salon story, question or topic that belongs in one of the folders? Want to be considered as a guest? Connect with Kim on Instagram at @trendywkimallison or email [email protected].

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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

✅ Subscribe for more conversations with the voices reshaping the beauty industry.

Click Here For More Info: https://linktr.ee/TrendywithKimAllison

– Listen on Spotify, Apple, and all podcast platforms.

– Follow @trendywkimallison on Instagram and TikTok.

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

Follow Trendy with Kim Allison so you never miss an episode.

Have a salon story, question or topic that belongs in one of the folders? Want to be considered as a guest? Connect with Kim on Instagram at @trendywkimallison or email [email protected].

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today we’re diving into the biggest conversations shaking up the beauty industry right now — no fluff, no tip-toeing. I brought back two of my favorite guests, Jenna Caldwell and Jordan Peña, to unpack everything from viral salon scandals to burnout, broken hair, AI, pricing, and the accountability era we suddenly found ourselves in.

We’re covering real stories, real consequences, and real solutions from three working stylists who aren’t afraid to tell the truth.

MEET THE GUESTS:

✨ Jenna Caldwell – Master colorist, educator & creator of The Colorist Blueprint - Based in Austin, TX

IG/TikTok: @jennamcaldwell

Website: www.thecoloristblueprint.com

✨ Jordan Peña – Rising stylist known for fresh blonding & clean execution - Based in San Antonio, TX

IG/TikTok/YouTube: @donebyjordan

✅ Subscribe for more conversations with the voices reshaping the beauty industry.

Click Here For More Info: https://linktr.ee/TrendywithKimAllison

– Listen on Spotify, Apple, and all podcast platforms.

– Follow @trendywkimallison on Instagram and TikTok.

If you’re a stylist, educator, salon owner, or beauty lover… this one is PACKED.

Grab a snack and settle in — we go deep!

TIME STAMPS:

0:00 Intro

1:45 Meet Jordan & Jenna

3:00 Hair by Chrissy: The Accountability Era

10:20 Social Media, Virality & Client Stories

16:40 Luxury Pricing vs Luxury Service

22:55 Over-Processed Hair Culture

30:40 Education Gaps & Technique Problems

38:00 Gender Dynamics in the Salon Industry

48:20 Pricing Pushback & Service Menu Fatigue

58:30 The Trust Recession in Beauty

1:20:40 AI in Hair: What’s Coming

1:34:50 Game Time: Price Is Right

1:37:30 Love It or Hate It

1:39:10 Final Thoughts + Guest Info

Follow Trendy with Kim Allison so you never miss an episode.

Have a salon story, question or topic that belongs in one of the folders? Want to be considered as a guest? Connect with Kim on Instagram at @trendywkimallison or email [email protected].

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.