Episodes

  • Episode 332: Jacob Khan-Creative Director Hairbrained

    Episode 332: Jacob Khan-Creative Director Hairbrained
    Feb 23 2025
    Description:
    In this episode of HB Conversations, we sit down with the always entertaining and insightful Jacob Khan, who has just taken on the role of Hairbrained’s first-ever Creative Director! Jacob shares his journey from hairdresser to social media sensation, educator, and brand ambassador—now stepping into a leadership role that will shape the future of Hairbrained’s content and events.

    Jacob opens up about the turning point that skyrocketed his career on Instagram, his unique approach to blending humor with hair education, and the lessons he’s learned about balancing creative freedom with brand partnerships. He also gives us an inside look at his vision for Hairbrained’s future, working closely with the team to elevate education, empower hairdressers, and create opportunities for emerging artists.

    Key Topics Covered:
    ⏩ How a viral moment led to 22K followers overnight
    ⏩ The evolution of hair education & making learning fun
    ⏩ Navigating brand partnerships without losing authenticity
    ⏩ The power of social media in building a personal brand
    ⏩ Jacob’s new role as Hairbrained’s Creative Director and what’s next
    ⏩ The future of content creation for hair professionals

    With his signature humor and unfiltered honesty, Jacob breaks down what it takes to thrive in today’s industry—whether you’re behind the chair, behind the camera, or building a brand.

    👉 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more HB Conversations with industry leaders!

    #JacobKhan #HairEducation #SocialMediaSuccess #HairdresserLife #HB
    Show more Show less
    48 mins
  • Episode # 331: Ashley Mooney CEO of ARETÉ

    Episode # 331: Ashley Mooney CEO of ARETÉ
    Dec 4 2024

    In this episode of Hb Conversations, Gerard Scarpaci sits down with Ashley Mooney to discuss Areté, a groundbreaking beauty brand focused on sustainability and innovation for hair professionals. Ashley shares her journey from intern to CEO and the inspiration behind creating Areté, a brand that champions clean, high-performance products while staying true to the needs of stylists and their clients. They dive into industry trends like scalp care, the importance of balancing artistry with sustainability, and how mentorship and collaboration shape the future of the beauty world. Don't miss this conversation full of passion, purpose, and practical insights.
    Show more Show less
    45 mins
  • Episode #330: Carlos Rojas (@colorbycarlos), Schwarzkopf Professional Digital Artistic Team

    Episode #330: Carlos Rojas (@colorbycarlos), Schwarzkopf Professional Digital Artistic Team
    Nov 6 2024
    At age 29, Carlos Rojas (@colorbycarlos) shifted gears into hairdressing. His years in the food service industry served him well—as did his touch of theatrical flair. Now Carlos is one of the industry’s most relatable voices. Carlos discusses how inspiration in the moment helps him craft his Instagram and TikTok posts, which blend education with comedy and resonate deeply with hairdressers and clients alike. He also talks about @schwarzkopfusa’s versatile IGORA COLOR10 range and explores how his content showcases its many uses, beyond just quick root touch-ups.
    Show more Show less
    53 mins
  • Episode #329: Stef Fox and Jen Baudier, Co-founders of @mymatchable

    Episode #329: Stef Fox and Jen Baudier, Co-founders of @mymatchable
    Oct 20 2024
    Connections build opportunities, and no other industry proves that point more than the hairdressing industry. In this episode, we’re joined by @stef_fox and @jenbaudier, co-founders of Talent Match (@mymatchable), a groundbreaking platform that works like a dating app to match salon owners and hairdressers. Learn how they’re using data to solve the industry’s biggest hiring challenges, the lessons they’ve learned along the way, and what’s next for this innovative tool. Whether you’re a salon owner or a stylist, this episode is packed with ways to help you find the perfect match.
    Show more Show less
    51 mins
  • Episode #328: Ian Mayer-Marszalek, @schwarzkopfusa Senior National Trainer

    Episode #328: Ian Mayer-Marszalek, @schwarzkopfusa Senior National Trainer
    Oct 13 2024
    In this episode, we chat with Ian Mayer-Marszalek @ianhairspray, Senior National Trainer for Schwarzkopf Professional, about his journey from hairdresser to educator. Ian shares insights on career paths beyond the salon chair and how he's reshaping education by adapting to hairdressers' needs. We also explore the science behind Schwarzkopf’s Fibre Clinix range, designed for personalized hair care, and dive into their latest innovations like anti-yellow toning drops and bonding oils. Plus, Ian shares expert tips on how to choose and use these oils based on hair type.
    Show more Show less
    47 mins
  • Episode #327, Ben White (@benmichahwhite), Fancy Hairdresser

    Episode #327, Ben White (@benmichahwhite), Fancy Hairdresser
    Sep 15 2024
    A quick glance at Ben White’s Instagram bio (@benmichahwhite) reveals his unique perspective. From his tongue-out profile pic to identifying his business as a Grocery Store, you can immediately sense Ben’s irreverent approach to life. In this episode, we explore how his creative mind works, how his background as a musician and singer (he's in three bands!) has shaped his outlook on hairdressing, and what surprises he has in store for the lucky hairdressers attending Hb Fest. (Hint: It may involve giving away some @babylissprousa tools!)

    Show more Show less
    48 mins
  • Episode #326: Brittany Byrd, Owner of Blondify Studio

    Episode #326: Brittany Byrd, Owner of Blondify Studio
    Aug 29 2024
    In this episode, Brittany Bird @blondebybritt, owner of @blondifystudio, discusses the growing trend of clients taking to social media to criticize their hairdressers—whether justified or not. Brittany recently faced a viral TikTok post from a client upset about pricing, but thanks to her well-established systems, she was able to post a detailed rebuttal that protected her reputation. Together, Gerard and Brittany explore the importance of having strong systems in place to safeguard your business against online backlash and share tips on how to navigate the challenges of social media.

    Show more Show less
    55 mins
  • Episode #325: Stephen Moody, JPMS Artistic Director

    Episode #325: Stephen Moody, JPMS Artistic Director
    Aug 18 2024
    With decades of experience in the hair industry, Stephen Moody, Artistic Director of Paul Mitchell, is a celebrated educator and innovator. Stephen’s recent wins at the North American Hairstyling Awards have garnered attention, particularly for his bold hair and model choices. In this interview, he discusses his frustration with "Lego" hair, and how this spurred him to enter and showcase textured hair and more mature models with attitude. Tune in as we explore Stephen’s journey, his passion for redefining beauty standards, and his insights into the future of hair and education.

    Show more Show less
    49 mins