
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.
Find out what a difference a couple of years can make in the life of an independent salon professional!





For decades now, but even more so over the past couple of years, MODERN SALON has made a concerted effort to support the informational needs of those who have chosen to go independent, or who may have been forced to go independent due to the pandemic, with in-person events like MODERN SALON's Independent Boot Camp and our Indie Pro Awards, educational video series such as "Road to Independence," and through countless other articles and resources for those embarking on the beautiful journey of entrepreneurship.
And, while Where are they now? may seem like a be a bit of a cliche question, it's certainly a poignant one when it comes to the career trajectory of an independent beauty, barbering, or nail professional. With the inordinate number of small business that fail each year, it's imperative to look at the ones that are surviving and thriving for inspiration and motivation. That's why MODERN recently popped into a Salon Lofts location in the greater Chicago area to see how one of the independent hair stylists featured in "Road to Independence" is doing almost two years later.
We're pleased to say that she appears to be crushing it! From her confident demeanor to her impressive client roster, Kelly's proving that one can make the leap, and land, on her own two feet.
In these quick videos, Kelly updates us what she likes most about being independent, how adding a luxury retail line like Balmain Paris has set her business apart, and what she has learned over the past two years.
Q: How are things going, almost two years later?
Q: What have you learned about the financial benefits of being an independent?
Q: What do you enjoy the most about being independent, now?
Q: Are you retailing from your salon suite?
Q: What do you like about working in a salon suite?
Q: What are somethings you have learned since going independent?

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.

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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.

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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