Special Guest: David Thurston of Butterfly Loft Salon + Danger Jones


In this episode, we welcome a VERY special guest, David Thurston, owner of Butterfly Loft Salon and founder and CEO of Danger Jones. David shares his journey into the salon industry, his insightful and inspiring stories about taking risks, and how Butterfly Circus created a monumental shift in the salon industry, building community and the power of independent education. David also shares his recent ventures, including a music documentary and vision for the Danger Jones brand. David also reflects on the importance of personal branding and gives us a vulnerable, behind-the-scenes look at his current 100 videos in 100 days challenge, which ends up as a little therapy sesh for Nina lol. You can find David on the socials here, Alexis Thurston’s TikTok here, and Danger Jones here and here. Thank you David for being our VERY special guest. We LOVE you! 

Episode Highlights
David Thurston’s Journey into the Salon Industry
The Impact and Success of Butterfly Circus
The Danger Jones Brand
David’s 100 Videos in 100 Days Challenge

Self-Care, Travel, and Personal Insights
Where to Find David, Alexis, and Danger Jones Online
David’s Favorite Quotes

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Your experience matters. We would be so grateful if you shared your experience with our podcast by leaving a review wherever you enjoy your podcasts so others can discover it. It matters to us, and so do you. Thank you- Nina

Independent Stylist + Educator Insights: Amanda Harsche, Forma Collective Salon + Danger Jones

In this episode, we welcome Amanda Harsche, an independent stylist, educator, and content creator from Denver, Colorado to the pod. Amanda shares her journey to becoming a hairdresser, despite initial resistance from her parents, how she built a salon clientele in a small town, authenticity and simplicity in creating content, and her unwavering commitment to making hair education accessible to all. We talk about Amanda’s struggles with mental health, her incredible milestone of achieving six months of sobriety, the importance of self-care as a hairdresser, and the value of a strong support system. You can find Amanda on the socials here and at Forma Collective Salon here. Thank you Amanda for being our guest and sharing your insights, experiences, and wisdom. We LOVE you! 

Episode Highlights 

Amanda’s Journey to Becoming a Hairdresser
Building a Salon Clientele in a Small Town
Becoming an Educator and Content Creator
Creating Authentic Content
Amanda’s Sobriety Journey
Prioritizing Mental Health and Self-Care

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Your experience matters. We would be so grateful if you shared your experience with our podcast by leaving a review wherever you enjoy your podcasts so others can discover it. It matters to us, and so do you. Thank you- Nina

Salon Owner Insights: Brenda Amaral of Gwen Mireille Salon & Spa + True Hair Education

In this episode, Nina welcomes back Brenda Amaral, owner of Gwen Mireille Salon & Spa in Raynham, Massachusetts, and founder of True Hair Education. Brenda shares her journey transitioning from booth renter to an employment-based salon owner, emphasizing the importance of overcoming fears and regrets. She speaks about her early challenges in leadership and the significance of having mentors. Our conversation dives into True Hair Education’s mission of providing unbranded, fundamental hair color education to empower stylists to make more informed, confident decisions. Brenda also discusses the importance of self-care, healthy boundaries, and continuous learning in her professional journey. You can find Brenda and True Hair Education on the web here and on the socials here. Thank you Brenda for being our guest, we LOVE you!

Episode Highlights 
Brenda’s Journey to Salon Ownership

Early Lessons in Leadership
Building a Clientele
True Hair Education
Learning from Mistakes
Overcoming Fear in the Industry
Empowerment Through Knowledge
Combating Misinformation
The Importance of Fundamentals
True Hair Education Programs
Navigating Leadership and Self-Care

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Your experience matters. We would be so grateful if you shared your experience with our podcast by leaving a review wherever you enjoy your podcasts so others can discover it. It matters to us, and so do you. Thank you- Nina