
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.
Get the scoop on Nicole "Snooki" Polizzi's new nail line, her new Great Lengths hair extensions, and what trends she's loving.
Nicole "Snooki" Polizzi just debuted a new nail line--and a new look!
I got the opportunity to sit down with Snooks for a look at what nail trends and shapes she's loving (you MUST check out the close-up of her engagement ring), how she's embraced a pointed nail and, most importantly, how she achieved the "fireball red" hair she's been sporting!
Now, let's get a few things straight first. I get it, not everyone loves Jersey Shore as much as I do. But guess what--this woman is a HUGE advocate for the professional beauty industry--and she's always willing to give shout outs to the people and products that make her beautiful. And, more importantly, she's using her fame for good. To help victims of Superstorm Sandy and to help with Shore Relief.
"The shore is like my second home," she says. "We are all distraught. I am donating personally but the whole cast is getting together to help in the storm relief." READ THE WHOLE STORY HERE: SNOOKI JUMPS IN FOR SHORE RELIEF
ALISON SHIPLEY: For the client who may not embrace wild trends like big hair and faux lashes, how can the salon professional help them embrace a more wild nail?
NICOLE POLIZZI: You can always show your fun side through a nail polish, or through a hair color or outfit. Really anyone can wear funky polish--you just have to have the confidence, not care what people think--even if you're a doctor, you can have bright orange nails!
AS: You're such a trend setter--what does beauty mean to you?
NP: Everybody is a plain canvas without anything on them, no hair, no make-up, no nails. But once you get everything done, it's like the painting is finished."
AS: Tell us about your hair, who did it and, not sure if I'm allowed to ask you this, is this all yours?
NP: Great Lengths Extensions! Love it! Bradley from Gemini 14 Salon in New York City created this look for me. He's amazing. It took basically all day to get this done. Great Lengths Extensions are the best. My hair is pretty long but I just like to have a lot of fullness and make it extra thick. I love it.
While there is only one Snooki, everyone can amp up his or her own individual style with simple additions. For Snooks, it's all about animal prints and bold, bodacious nail colors. "I am obsessed with nails! They're a great accessory and add flavor to any style!"

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