
Rodrick Samuels on The Silent Work, Modern Beauty Education and Why Empathy Wins
MODERN SALON sat down with Samuels to discuss the book, beauty education, mentorship and the habits that help beauty professionals thrive.
"You’re doing beautiful hair every day. Not shooting it for social is a missed opportunity for others to actually see it and request your services," says Blake Reed Evans, salon owner and media coach.

Ever wonder what it takes to get swoon-worthy Instagram photos in a reasonable amount of time? Sam Villa Ambassador, salon owner and social media coach, Blake Reed Evans @blakereedevans, is breaking it down.
“Being prepared allows you to steel a couple minutes here and there to capture the amazing work you’ve done in a short amount of time,” says Evans.
Supplies: Keep a bag filled with the essentials: Sam Villa Artist Series Finishing Brush, tail comb and dry sectioning clips, as well as accessories like scrunchies and pins. Including a travel size hairspray to tame flyaways is a must!
Variety: Think of easy of ways to get different looks quickly. If doing a ponytail, develop it further by creating a classic tail in the center of the head and loop it through the elastic - then add a striking accessory…pin it up… texturize or braid it…one look can be shot in so many different ways.
Camera Position: Raise the camera/phone high, angle it down and lean it forwards and backwards to capture the perfect angle and lighting for the hair. Some salons even have ring lights and shooting stations, take advantage of those resources!
“You’re doing beautiful hair every day. Not shooting it for social is a missed opportunity for others to actually see it and request your services,” adds Evans.
Explore the weekly educational offerings from Sam Villa and team here.

MODERN SALON sat down with Samuels to discuss the book, beauty education, mentorship and the habits that help beauty professionals thrive.

"The mistake people make is treating AI like a vending machine instead of a personal assistant." Digital marketing expert Scott Moon shares how beauty professionals can use AI while staying authentic

Real-world advice on creativity, consultations, color, burnout, business, boundaries, inclusivity, client care, and career growth from educators and industry experts.

Today's clients are hearing more about longevity, biohacking, inflammation, and healthy aging than ever before. This article explores the science and language behind the skin longevity movement, and what it could mean for client consultations, treatment recommendations, and professional credibility.

Licensed to Thrive, Anna Manukyan's all-in-one beauty career and financial masterclass, is being gifted to professionals who enroll in L'Oreal LEVEL Rewards for a limited time.

From breaking free of external validation to creating joy-based goals, discover a more sustainable and fulfilling path to success.

A full day of education for hairstylists and salon pros focused on pricing, personal branding, client experience, social media, and long-term career growth.

From working backstage at multiple Paris Fashion Week shows to collaborating on four creative collections and expanding her international stage work, Michelle Bowden has had an incredible year of growth. Here, we break down her approach that drove her momentum, offering a framework for stylists looking to elevate their own careers.

This marks Ulta Beauty’s first scholarship partnership with Beauty Changes Lives, building on years of enthusiastic support for the organization and its mission.

Locally owned Great Clips salons offer a wide variety of career opportunities, competitive compensation, supportive salon teams and opportunities to grow your skills, both technically and professionally.
Sponsored by Great Clips

Salon suite consultant Karen Kaminski explains why cheap salon suite rent can destabilize the salon suite business model and why value-based pricing may be a smarter strategy.

These stylists practice hairdresser magic, transforming clients into unicorns, mermaids, rainbows and living works of art.

Keratin Complex is taking education on the road in 2026 with the launch of KC on Tour, a live event series featuring industry icon and salon business coach Tabatha Coffey.

Modern professionalism is evolving beyond hard skills. Technical training is essential but about 85 percent of job success comes from soft skills. In a world where AI and automation are increasing, human connection becomes more valuable, not less.

In his new book "The Creative Mastermind," a writer and creative executive behind brands such as "Top Chef," "Fear Factor," and "Real Housewives," shares his insider knowledge for navigating today's chaotic content landscape.

Personalization is no longer just the cherry on top; it’s the whole sundae. If clients don’t feel like you designed and personalized the experience just for them, they’ll find a salon that does.

Ulta Beauty is always innovating to meet professionals where they are. Amazing transformations happened at The Salon at Ulta Beauty in 2025, and Ulta Beauty artistry and education will be everywhere you want to go in the year ahead. Come see all The Salon at Ulta Beauty has planned for you in 2026!
Sponsored by Ulta Beauty