
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.
MODERN’s Executive Editor Alison Shipley directs this constant stream of social media team coverage, along with coordinating and editing our features, step-by-step education and other core content in the magazine. I asked her to summarize “what’s new” from our guest artists this month, and her answer was resoundingly “the classics.” Reinventing what’s old is truly new. Again.

What’s new? Even clients who don’t ask this classic question out loud each time they sit in your chair expect you to answer it. You are their source for new: new looks, new trends, new style, new color, new everything that affects their personal image. You are their “new” authority in beauty.
As always, MODERN and the leading educators and celebrity stylists we engage are here to help you start the new year strong, with fresh approaches, products and ideas to serve your clients. Explore this issue and be sure to connect with us (and each other) on all of MODERN’s digital communities— modernsalon.com, MODERN’s Style Watch Daily e-letters and our salonspecifi c, market-leading social networks on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, YouTube and Twitter—for inspiration and the education to back it up. We post new content and techniques every day, on every platform.
MODERN’s Executive Editor Alison Shipley directs this constant stream of social media team coverage, along with coordinating and editing our features, step-by-step education and other core content in the magazine. I asked her to summarize “what’s new” from our guest artists this month, and her answer was resoundingly “the classics.” Reinventing what’s old is truly new. Again.
We commit to the classic-but-new theme with Beginning Big, our cover story from contemporary celebrity colorist Kiyah Wright, whose ode to the past features new formulations and application techniques with Clairol Professional’s Classic Collection, a new line inspired by 16 popular classic liquid shades.
Switching gears, the vibe goes vintage and masculine with Confident and Cool from Vaughn Acord. The collection and the new V76 by Vaughn men’s line is inspired by “muscle cars, the Blues and Elvis,” timeless classics, all.
Vintage will big in beauty in all categories, by the way, MODERN sources predict. Watch for impact in both styling and in product packaging and promotion.
Finally, what’s more classic than sex appeal and Hollywood glam? Sexy Hair’s Rafe Hardy delivers Tri-Texture, his interpretation of red-carpet staples of waves and texture, made new with modern detailing.
The New Year happily brings a new show season and opportunities to experience these and other emerging trends, products and tips. MODERN will be in full force at Long Beach’s International Salon and Spa Expo, Chicago’s America’s Beauty Show and more, and covering all the red carpet and awards show news, too.
And, stay tuned. We have our own new (and VERY exciting) things lined up for you this year, too. MODERN’s “Healthy Hairdresser” initiative is just one—watch for our Healthy Hairdresser Tuesday e-letters launching this month. Sign up at modernsalon.com/eletter. We’re committed to helping you enjoy a happy, healthy 2014 and to keeping your classic skills sharp and designs looking modern and new!
To your beauty and success,
Michele Musgrove
Associate Publisher and Editorial Director
mmusgrove@vancepublishing.com

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