We recently connected with Michelle Zabatta and have shared our conversation below.

Michelle, appreciate you joining us today. So let’s jump to your mission – what’s the backstory behind how you developed the mission that drives your brand?

the story behind Studio Z by Michelle Zabatta the Stylist is ;

i’m a private studio/ salon retailing plant based haircare and streetwear apparel.

i’ve been in the industry for 9 years and was financially, physically and mentally abused for 6 years by family members & after losing over 200lbs I had noticed how different I felt and how I didnt fit in. I made mistakes that were harshly judged and not guided to correct in a way that pushed me
towards a nervous breakdown.

after gaining mental and physical help &
reviving a clean bill of health, I studied other stylists who had been through similar situations and grew my business over 127% within 12 months

I now believe that I can educate others into becoming their best versions of themselves while curating art on my own clientele and showcasing intimate and luxurious self care!

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

at 20 years old i became
a hairstylist in the state of CA

at 24 years old i had endured 3 years of abuse by my colleagues and employers

at 25 years old, i was 500lbs and an alcoholic addicted to narcotics

at 26 I beat cervical cancer and mandibular squamous cell carcinoma

at 27 I had a complete and total nervous breakdown

at 29 years old, i’ve opened a 2 person private studio and storefront and have lost over 330lbs while maintaining 3.5 years of sobriety

I believe in redirection. I believe your mindset is the most dangerous weapon. I believe in multiple chances. I do not get stressed. I let people walk away and I fully believe my happiness is my own.

I lead and curate with love and cannot wait to help other stylists or content creators grow in ways I could only dream of!

Are there any books, videos, essays or other resources that have significantly impacted your management and entrepreneurial thinking and philosophy?

“the power of your subconscious mind”-joseph murphy

“the four agreements” -don miguel ruiz

“the alchemist” -paul coehlo

What’s a lesson you had to unlearn and what’s the backstory?

although you cannot change the people around you, you can absolutely change the people around you…

when I was working alongside people who did not respect me, my drinking was at an all
time high & my work was atrocious in every way possible.

no light in my eyes could be found

once i had stepped away and gotten proper help and respect from my sorroundings, my
work became better, my clientele tripled and my eyes started to sparkle

this watered flower bloomed.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: michellezabattathestylist

Image Credits

norbes photography