
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.
Connecting the DotsMeeting someone for the first time is a unique experience. It can be a little uncomfortable and even awkward, but there’s no denying that spark of a connection when you meet someone you like—a best friend, ...

Editor Lauren Quick (right) met Insta-famous colorist Larisa Love (@larisadoll) at the 2015 International Salon and Spa Expo in Long Beach, California. Love is a master of haircolor and of connecting to her audience via social media; see her on Instagram and new app Periscope. (photo credit: Stacey Soble)
Stacey Soble
Meeting someone for the first time is a unique experience. It can be a little uncomfortable and even awkward, but there’s no denying that spark of a connection when you meet someone you like—a best friend, boyfriend, mentor or idol.
In a world that declares real, genuine, face-to-face connections are a dying breed, hairdressers continue to thrive in a culture of connections, meetings and community. It’s a unique component of who you are.
You’re making connections in other ways when you draw inspiration from the runway, nature, art and design. Have you noticed something different about this issue of FIRST CHAIR? We’re inspired by many of the same things you are, and we have brightened up our pages with a new design that we hope you appreciate and relate to.
This issue exists to help you get from point A to point B in all facets of your burgeoning career. Model-recruiting can be intimidating if your mom is getting tired of being your go-to for practicals and demo days; our feature aims to inspire confidence and make things just a little less confusing when seeking a model for practicals, photoshoots or salon auditions.
If making sure there’s no missing link between a client consultation and the finished result is a concern of yours, we’ve gathered 10 conversation-starters to help clear the air before the hair falls. And when you are done with it all, license in hand, ready to explore the big, bustling world of post-grad life, we want to help you make the leap with some sound advice.
And we have someone you should meet: me. After serving FIRST CHAIR and its Modern Salon Media siblings as assistant editor for the past year and a half, I’m stepping up as editor of FIRST CHAIR. I’m thrilled to curate content that I hope enlightens and inspires you, and I welcome constructive criticism, feedback or just a note saying, “Hi.”
Your life as a stylist is bound to be chock-full of connections—make sure you don’t miss any.
Here's to you and your success!
-Lauren Quick
Editor

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