
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.
As salons look toward a beautifully busy summer, beauty pros have a whole new world of education options to experience, and WellaEd is leading the way.


As salons look toward a beautifully busy summer, beauty pros have a whole new world of education options to experience, and WellaEd is leading the way. No matter where a stylist is or wants to be on their career journey, or what type of salon or business model they work within, Wella has something to inspire growth and success.
"Be prepared, be confident, make a change," encourages Wella Top Artist Omar Antonia (@omarantoniosebastian), who collaborates with educators from Wella's global network to deliver a full range of engaging mobile, virtual and in-person education.
Find a diverse calendar and complete details, organized by subject and location, at WellaEd.com.
"Wella education has empowered me, and I want to empower you, too," is how Wella Top Artist Michael Haase explains his and colleagues' commitment.
"We have such a variety of classes being taught by the most amazing artists," adds Design Team Artist Eryn Wall (@erynshair). "Everybody is so passionate about the subject matter and that really shows."
"I love teaching Wella Education because of the versatility in classes on cutting, color, styling, business development, social media, even photography," adds Design Team Artist Stevie Smith (@stevieannesmith).
Virtual
Virtual Classroom offerings span across Wella's portfolio of brands—Wella, Sebastian, Nioxin and OPI. Whether a beauty pro's preferred platform is Facebook, Instagram, or Zoom, there is a virtual class for every salon interest and skill set. From virtual "Look and Learn" sessions with Education Director Stephen Moody, to virtual hands-on sessions to become certified as a Master Color Expert or Master Styling Expert, to Scalp Care 101, Insta-Ready Hair and much more, it's easy to view and sign up here.
In Person
Wella Studios located in New York City, Los Angeles, and Toronto are long-time leaders in offering hands-on classes across a wide range of services and specialties, and plan to continue evolving those unique experiences and capabilities. Wella also offers over 160 classes for individual salon teams, arranged via the salon's Wella company partner.
On The Go
Wella's mobile application offers instant education at any beauty pro's talented fingertips. From step-by-step videos, to product knowledge catalogs, WellaEd has the content covered. The app is available free through the Apple App Store and Google Play. Plus, check out Wella's video library on YouTube.
Also, within each of the platforms, beauty pros can find sessions on these topics and more:
Color: Discover classes and events focused on hair color technique, application and formulation. Learn the latest products and trends directly from top Wella artists.
Cut: WellaEd offers classes and events focused on hair cutting and barbering techniques for classic and modern styles. Learn from the best in the industry, whether using shears or razor.
Care and Styling: Understand the best care regimen for clients through the art of consultation. Learn how to layer and mix products to give clients their dream looks. Discover the tools and techniques to achieve the hottest styles for clients.
Business and social media: Master business building, finance, client retention, and marketing strategies from top minds in the salon business community.
Nails: WellaEd also offers exclusive education in nail design and art for nail technicians, with professional tips and techniques to master the hottest nail trends.
Independent stylist Jessica Lopez says that in in addition to the color she uses and the care products she offers clients, Wella education makes the company a true business partner. "Wella education offers on-demand classes, usable techniques and skills to be a better stylist. I love that I can watch a video between clients and bring what I learn right to the next appointment. To belong to an amazing community has been such a blessing. Let Wella Education support your dedication, your talent and your business."
My work is more precise and refined after mastering the Cut Craft class, says Brand Educator Nato VanDine (@re_nato_v). "I am able to confidently tailor my cuts not only to my color work but to my clients' personality, face shape and hair texture."
And because of the Master Styling Expert certification, VanDine says, "I'm able to confidently offer a broader range of services to a more diverse clientele."
Colorist and Brand Educator Sherry Holloway (@hair_sher) says Wella's Master Color Expert program gave her all the tools she needed to be successful. "I am now booked out about eight weeks in advance."
And, as effective and exciting as Wella's virtual education has become, there's still something special about returning to in-person classes with live models, side by side with other artists..
"The education you get at the Studio takes you to a different level, agrees Brand Educator Janet Algeciras (@janet_algeciras).
"Wella Education helped me when I was a student by offering education, opportunities and mentorship," says stylist Katey Bug Smith (@kateybugsmith).
"Wella has supported my education journey by putting salon knowledge right in the palm of my hand," agrees stylist Felishia Teel. "The future of our industry needs quality education and a strong partner like Wella."
Learn more at WellaEd.com, visit the Wella Store, and follow @wellaeducation and @opi_professionals for updates on weekly livestream classes.

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

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