
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.
I am a fanatic of lists, alerts on Google, iPhone, post-its, back of envelopes and Starbucks napkins. I stick to a schedule and turn down conflicts with “the plan.” The school of hard knocks teaches that if you don’t know what ...

I am a fanatic of lists, alerts on Google, iPhone, post-its, back of envelopes and Starbucks napkins. I stick to a schedule and turn down conflicts with “the plan.” The school of hard knocks teaches that if you don’t know what you need, you certainly won’t get what you want. New salon professionals often fail to pen that list of needs. This is how my New Year’s resolutions might look today. Hindsight is perfect.
1. Be Number One in 2015
Meeting your needs first is not a selfish act— it’s an understanding of the power of showing up fully for the salon team and clients. Making others look and feel good emanates from your inner strength and balance---get it together first, in order to serve others. Certainly, don’t show up at the salon searching for solutions to your issues. Very unpopular.
2. Stop Worrying About Money:
Money is scarce the first couple of salon years, and few things drain you as constantly making ends meet. This year, create a simple budget you can live with and stick to it. Your objective: peace of mind for clear thinking and good choices. Never be embarrassed due to little money when you are starting out. We’ve all been there. If someone makes less of you on this account, send me name and phone number. I will gladly give them a reminder call.
3. Rejection is Protection
Trust that the client who didn’t come back, the no show date, and the invite you never got was just not the right fit—if so, missing it saved you from greater disappointment. This year, remind yourself constantly that there is abundance in this world and that something better is coming. And, really look for it.
4. Are We There Yet?
But, I want clients now? Patience—everything takes time. The woman discovered at the drugstore counter or who won the lottery, is a fluke. Everyone works for what they have and become—the loftier the goal, the longer the wait. Put your energy into self-improvement, networking and social media promos.
5. Wind Beneath Your Wings
You know those people in your life who genuinely want the best for you? Make it a point to acknowledge them often during 2015. Show up for them by not needing anything from but their presence.
Happy Holidays to all my awesome readers, you inspire me to be the best and keep my fire burning for our industry/ Be always blessed and happy.
Carlos Valenzuela
Carlos Valenzuela: is a consultant, speaker, stylist, bilingual trainer, and author of iFabulous Salon Success, an interactive online learning guide for new salon professionals.
Info: www.ifabuloussalonsuccess.com
Like: www.facebook.com/IFabulousSalonSuccess
Follow: @ifabskills

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