Being “Different” in an Industry That Lost Its Way

In this episode of License & Unsupervised, we continue the conversation about being older in the room — and what that really means in today’s culture.We talk about pop culture gaps between generations, how apprentices seem to know everything, and how quickly things change when you’re not paying attention.But this episode goes deeper.We revisit the foundations of the industry — Vidal Sassoon, Paul Mitchell, the tradition of wearing black — and contrast that with today’s world of dopamine dressing and self-expression.We also talk honestly about:Perimenopause and how it affects not just us, but the people around usThe emotional weight we carry as hairstylistsHow clients often cry in our chairs simply because they feel safeWhy our salon has become a place where people can be themselvesWhether we’re “alternative” — or just differentHow the industry shifted after COVIDWhy some stylists left, and why others stayedThe importance of consent when sharing client imagesHow we help people reconnect with their confidence and powerWe also reflect on the past — London Calling salon, the Real Big HairBall — and how those experiences shaped who we are today.This episode is about identity, impact, and remembering what really matters in this industry.Licensed? Yes. Different? Definitely. Still here? Always.