Alex Ioannou shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Alex, a huge thanks to you for investing the time to share your wisdom with those who are seeking it. We think it’s so important for us to share stories with our neighbors, friends and community because knowledge multiples when we share with each other. Let’s jump in: What do the first 90 minutes of your day look like?
My first 90 minutes include a Shiatsu meridian stretch, 100 sit ups and 40 push ups. Allow me to explain, grounding myself at the beginning of the day is important if I am to succeed the rest of the day. As a veteran hairstylist, educator, coach, and former salon owner, I decided to go back to school and learn Shiatsu massage and Chinese medicine. This Japanese style of bodywork, along with the 2500 year old Chinese medicine theories have enhanced my perspective on how I cut hair, talk with people, listen to people, and share industry information. The stretches are key allowing my energy to flow without constriction or blockage forming clear and free thought.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I am a 30+ year veteran of the salon industry. I have been a creative director, platform artist, senior stylist, hair cutting educator, multi-unit salon owner, haircare products manufacturer, author, and salon industry coach – a lot of experience that I can share and help other owners, stylists, and students look at and create, or hone their career path.
Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. What breaks the bonds between people—and what restores them?
Distrust, Inauthenticity, Selfishness, Lies, Bragging, Lack of Communication, Neglect, Ego
Honest communication, Vulnerability, Forgiveness, Accountability, Time, Compassion
Bonds break when fear replaces trust—and they heal when understanding replaces fear.
What fear has held you back the most in your life?
So many fears that many will resonate with….fear of not being smart enough, fear of not being liked, fear of not being cool enough, fear of being exposed, fear of the unknown, fear of failure, indeed, fear of success!
Your fears are made up, there is only one fear I have now….fear of not trying!
I think our readers would appreciate hearing more about your values and what you think matters in life and career, etc. So our next question is along those lines. Whom do you admire for their character, not their power?
I admire strength in character, honesty, and humility. I admire truth, compassion, integrity, caring, and good old fashion, nice! I think it’s hard to have power without these things, doesn’t matter who you are.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. Are you tap dancing to work? Have you been that level of excited at any point in your career? If so, please tell us about those days.
Oh yes! Every day!!!! Whether working with clients (public), or teaching students, or coaching a seasoned stylist or salon owner, tap dancing is a must. One must bring a level of excitement into what you do. Everyone has bad days and challenges that obstruct your passion; you have to learn to put it aside until you can handle things. Being an unenthused, non-communicative, quiet, boring, or un-motivating anything is less than desirable. So, turn that frown upside down! Go take care of business and treat people how you would expect to be treated, then handle your stuff at the appropriate time.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://alexhaircoach.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alexhaircoach/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexioannou/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alexhaircoach
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@alexioannou5356
- Other: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T6TFtU6cxTw
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
