We recently connected with Moe Cooley and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Moe, we’re so appreciative of you taking the time to share your nuggets of wisdom with our community. One of the topics we think is most important for folks looking to level up their lives is building up their self-confidence and self-esteem. Can you share how you developed your confidence?
When I first started beauty school, it was challenging to feel confident (especially all the time). I had to accept that I was new and still learning, which is part of the process. Being overly critical of yourself only takes you so far—you have to become comfortable with making mistakes, and beauty school was the perfect environment for that growth. After graduating from cosmetology school, I continued learning through an apprenticeship and have made it a priority to keep expanding my skills as much as possible.
Now, I teach classes to other stylists, which has been another big confidence booster. Teaching has deepened my understanding and made me realize how much knowledge I’ve gained over the years. I’ve also built my self-confidence by ensuring that I only take on tasks I feel fully equipped to handle. If I don’t feel 100% confident in something, I won’t do it until I’ve practiced enough to feel comfortable..
Having a passion for helping people feel their best and producing top-quality work for my clients also plays a huge role in my confidence. I’ve learned that while there will always be critiques, the only person in control of my success is me. Knowing that my only limit is myself gives me a lot of peace.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
I didn’t always know that hair would become my passion. In fact, I started out on a completely different path. Right after high school, I went to college for interior design and architecture. I studied for three years and was only a few terms away from my degree when I had this realization: I wasn’t pursuing that dream for myself. I was doing it for other people’s approval. It took a stress and human health class, where I was journaling and meditating, to really understand that. So, I dropped out halfway through the term and decided to go in a completely different direction. I got a job at ULTA and signed up for beauty school—thinking I was going to focus on makeup, because at the time, that’s where I thought my talent was (little did she know haha).
Even when I enrolled in cosmetology school at Paul Mitchell, hair still wasn’t on my radar. But then, on the first day we got to use real bleach on mannequin heads, something just clicked. I spent the entire day perfecting my highlights, and when I was done, I couldn’t stop showing everyone! That was when I realized hair was going to be my thing.
Now, I specialize in curly hair, and what’s most exciting to me is helping people embrace their natural texture—especially those who haven’t had much support with their curls. Curly hair is beautiful and worthy of validation, regardless of what society might suggest.
I’ve had the privilege of working with many mixed men and women from all backgrounds, and it’s been incredibly eye-opening. Through this work, I’ve become more aware of the systemic racism, especially the beauty industry, and I’m constantly learning how to be a better advocate for change.
In addition to working behind the chair, I also have an apprenticeship program where new stylists assist me. I teach, mentor, and also help the stylists learn key components to running a successful business- (all while paying them of course).
It’s such a rewarding way to pass on my knowledge. Looking ahead, I’m excited about hosting more classes, possibly launching an online workshop, and one day opening the doors to my ideal salon. But through it all, my mission remains the same: to empower people to love their natural hair, and to bring more awareness to the systemic issues in our industry while working toward positive change.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Looking back, some key things have really shaped my journey: resilience, communication, being true to myself, and learning.
Resilience has been essential because, let’s be real, this industry isn’t always easy. There are going to be challenges, mistakes, and moments when things don’t go as planned. I learned early on to embrace those mistakes and bounce back stronger.
My advice to anyone starting out is to see setbacks as opportunities to learn. Don’t let them hold you back—let them fuel your growth.
Another huge lesson is the power of communication. It’s something I live by in both my business and personal life. I always say I’d rather over-explain something than under-explain. Good communication is the key to avoiding misunderstandings and making sure everyone’s on the same page. I’ve found that if people don’t appreciate my thoroughness, they’re probably not the right fit for me—and that’s okay! Being clear and honest in your communication will attract the right people to you.
Another is being authentically YOU..
I have severe ADHD, and for a long time, I tried to fit into the box of what “professional” should look like.. big surprise, I hated it.. It wasn’t me and I always felt like I was holding so much of myself back.
The thing is, the right clients and relationships come when you show up as your authentic self.
A commitment to learning has been another constant in my journey. I’ve always made it a priority to stay curious and keep growing.
The beauty industry evolves quickly, so staying up to date on new techniques and trends is essential.
For anyone early in their career, I recommend seeking out every opportunity to learn and improve your craft. It’ll keep you excited about your work and ready for whatever comes next.
Because at the end of the day, you are in charge of your own life and business. Especially in the beauty industry, the only person who can stop you from making your dreams happen is you. So take ownership and go after what you really want.
Okay, so before we go, is there anyone you’d like to shoutout for the role they’ve played in helping you develop the essential skills or overcome challenges along the way?
My mom has always been my number one fan and biggest supporter. No matter what challenges I’ve faced, I’ve always known she has my back. She’s shown me that love and compassion come first, and that’s something I carry with me every day. She’s also the one who reminds me when I need to take a freaking break and give myself some slack. I can get caught up in pushing myself too hard, and she’s always there to remind me that it’s okay to rest and recharge. I wouldn’t be where I am without her unwavering support and her ability to ground me when I need it most.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.moesbeautyco.com
- Instagram: @beautimoe
