We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Samuel Zeeryp. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Samuel below.

Alright, Samuel thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Naming anything – including a business – is so hard. Right? What’s the story behind how you came up with the name of your brand?

Absolutely, naming ‘Bitchin’ Blowouts’ was a deeply personal and deliberate choice. I wanted a name that defied convention, something that would be both memorable and attention-grabbing. The term ‘Bitch’ for me embodies empowerment and a certain audacity that I bring to my craft. I pride myself on the unique experience that I offer my clients, which you can’t find in your average salon. While my passion primarily lies in color services, the name encapsulates the boldness and presence I bring to every service. It’s more than just a name; it’s a reflection of my unique style and the force of energy I infuse into every guest and appointment. ‘Bitchin’ Blowouts’ is not just about hair; it’s about confidence, flair, and celebrating individuals and their Bad Bitchery!”

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

For sure, I’d be delighted to share more about my journey and the core of ‘Bitchin’ Blowouts’. My passion for the beauty industry was sparked early on as I grew up surrounded by girls of diverse ethnicities and hair textures. I remember learning how to Dutch Braid with my friends Lea and Rhiannon; that’s likely where my fascination began. Driven by a profound appreciation for the transformative power of hair and its ability to instill confidence, I found my calling in this industry. The sheer (no pun intended, well maybe) joy of altering someone’s outlook, appearance, or day resonates deeply within me in ways words can’t capture.

While the name ‘Bitchin’ Blowouts’ implies a focus on blowouts, the bulk of my services center around coloring and lightning hair. I’m committed to offering an unparalleled salon experience, setting me apart from the competition. You won’t find another salon like me.

What truly distinguishes ‘Bitchin’ Blowouts’ is my intentional, therapeutic, and transformative approach. Upon entering my space, clients embark on a journey of both external and internal transformation. My background encompasses 5 1/2 years of formal education in Social Work with double minors in Drug and Alcohol Studies and Youth Studies (with the idea of becoming a therapist), profoundly shapes my approach to hair services. While I’m not a licensed therapist, I proudly embrace the title of ‘Hair-apist’. The hair’s power to foster deep emotional and psychological connection, undeniably changes lives.

The moments of connection, epiphany, and empowerment that transpire within these walls are truly magical. ‘Bitchin’ Blowouts’ transcends the traditional salon experience, serving as a sanctuary where beauty and well-being intersect. I’m not merely transforming hair; I’m transforming LIVES, one ’Bitchin’ hairstyle, blowout, and transformative conversation at a time.

Have any books or other resources had a big impact on you?

The book ‘Undoing Drugs’ by Maia Szalavitz has deeply influenced my approach to entrepreneurship, particularly by making my clients aware of radical empathy. Szalavitz’s book on harm reduction, coupled with the profound impact of Narcan in saving lives, resonated with me. Understanding the transformative potential of such solutions, I felt compelled to take action within my salon.

Inspired by the principles of radical empathy, I established stations within my salon dedicated to educating clients on the availability of free Narcan delivery services and the importance of harm reduction. Additionally, I offer Narcan (an opioid drug overdose reversal medication) and drug testing strips, ensuring that individuals have access to life-saving resources discreetly and without judgment. To incentivize proactive involvement, I provide a discount on a singular service to clients who show that they’ve taken steps to obtain Narcan.

My commitment to this cause extended beyond my salon. Collaborating with my salon coach, Tina Black, who owns five Paul Mitchell schools and multiple focus salons, I introduced her to ‘Undoing Drugs.’ Recognizing the importance of the message, I got Tina connected with Mark Kilgore, who works for C.A.R.E. Of Michigan to facilitate and organize a Narcan training session. for all her staff, equipping them with the knowledge and resources to make a tangible difference in their communities and save lives.

Through these initiatives, I aim to create a safe, compassionate space where empathy transcends boundaries, and proactive measures empower individuals to make informed choices for themselves, their loved ones, or complete strangers potentially saving lives.

Can you talk to us about how your side-hustle turned into something more.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://squareup.com/appointments/book/j7ofsfcrdn0tgb/LXPZZ5HTD0Q50/services
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bitchin_blowouts?igsh=MXZxcHZhbDNibGJj&utm_source=qr
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/btchinblowouts?mibextid=LQQJ4d
• Other: https://linktr.ee/bitchinblowouts?utm_source=linktree_profile_share&ltsid=bb63d006-04d7-47f1-93da-7f9a67739fd1