Welcome to the pre-launch home for - you good with pro‽
This is a private, invite-only space for practicing, licensed hair stylists/cosmetologists and barbers of the world.
We created the space to start a conversation and gain and share insights into how we feel about current industry changes - individually, collectively, locally, regionally, nationally, and globaly.
This is a private, invite-only space for practicing, licensed hair stylists/cosmetologists and barbers of the world.
We created the space to start a conversation and gain and share insights into how we feel about current industry changes - individually, collectively, locally, regionally, nationally, and globaly.
V1 - Why this is critical
Because we both know the second a Pro-product hits the shelf of an Un-pro or big-box retail store, by default, it can no longer be deemed an exclusive Pro-only product. That's a fact. We all know this (we think/hope).
This would not be an issue if our partners had given us a distinguishing replacement. And what we've accepted (because we've no other choice)
Products meant for us simultaneously living on unprofessional shelves.
«y surgically removing us clearly, considerating the above, and given retail is one of the few distinguishing profit centers left (that they'd not - up until now - fully taken), has no words to describe.
Equally wordless is their choice of supplant. Those with no education, knowledge, experience, wisdom, certification, or right. (Or so we once thought).
We've never owned or governed the term Pro, and consequently, we'll forever be at the mercy of those with the biggest checkbook.
As the term is with them, and unguarded, they'll continue to abuse, and bastardized till death. Problem G: And as we now share the term now with the Un-pros we die with it.
Opportunity: We can reject the Professional term and form our own. One we own as a Coop, or form of collective. We trademark it, manage it, and if need be, monetize it. Owned by the industry, controlled by us. Who, where, and how it's used.
This would not be an issue if our partners had given us a distinguishing replacement. And what we've accepted (because we've no other choice)
Products meant for us simultaneously living on unprofessional shelves.
«y surgically removing us clearly, considerating the above, and given retail is one of the few distinguishing profit centers left (that they'd not - up until now - fully taken), has no words to describe.
Equally wordless is their choice of supplant. Those with no education, knowledge, experience, wisdom, certification, or right. (Or so we once thought).
We've never owned or governed the term Pro, and consequently, we'll forever be at the mercy of those with the biggest checkbook.
As the term is with them, and unguarded, they'll continue to abuse, and bastardized till death. Problem G: And as we now share the term now with the Un-pros we die with it.
Opportunity: We can reject the Professional term and form our own. One we own as a Coop, or form of collective. We trademark it, manage it, and if need be, monetize it. Owned by the industry, controlled by us. Who, where, and how it's used.
V2: Why this is critical - Cleve's Lord or the rings, trilogy box set redic rant.
Your future well-being, your career, and the Professional hair and beauty industry are on the cusp of a seismic shift wherever you're geographically located.
Why? Because Loreal is Loreal, Wella is Wella, KMS is KMS, and so on, regardless of where you do hair. The issues may culturally or ethnically vary for obvious reasons, but the problems remain the same.
Changes in play and those yet to be rolled out do not include us. They never have or will. Unless we take the courageous step and inject ourselves into the equation now.
Never in the history of our industry have we had technology that has leveled the playing field. With these advantages, we can challenge what doesn't make sense to us and, for the first time, have our voices be heard as individuals and as a collective. Ultimately (if chosen), we have an opportunity to be considered, consulted, and play a significant roll in the voice that can make decisions in ways that favor us - at last.
We are Professional stylists like you. We've been affected, and we're biased. Our goal is to see if we stand alone or, if you and others agree there's a conflict of interest between our partners and us that's in play. To what degree is a big part of our curiosity. If the research and data support our hypotheses, we intend to collaborate with you to demonstrate how.
We believe an individual voice, yours, when joined forces with other like-minded stylist's in your Provence, Region, or Country, can amass the positive course correction we're in great need of. The vision is to look back and know we've enhanced the relationship between our partners, and this has resulted in a more fulfilling and inspired career and a healthier representation of us, The Pro Stylist.
But first, it would be wise to address our needs and wants. Once we have this, we'll be in great shape to articulate this with our partners in a way that's constructive, meaningful, profitable, sustainable, and considerate of us both. Failing this now will result in the past just becoming our future. They have all the control; we have zero. They control all the possibilities; we will not.
Inside is a space waiting for you. It's a straightforward and easy-to-navigate Conversation Roadmap. It will be our north star as it populates with your Ideas and conversations we believe the industry is ready for now.
You're also welcome to participate as you, or bring your best coffee name and be anonymous. You can even alternate both identities.
What's more important is that you share your ideas and concerns regarding where you believe our industry is headed, your likes and dislikes, and how you think it can be supported in a way that's deemed a fair exchange for our partners and us.
We also need your support to Collaborate, Comment, and Vote on other stylists' ideas. Your contribution will shape the first round of Ideas before we open the doors to the rest of the world.
This may become the most significant and positively driven social experiment in the history of our industry - across all time. That would be nice.
Welcome to the conversation.
Why? Because Loreal is Loreal, Wella is Wella, KMS is KMS, and so on, regardless of where you do hair. The issues may culturally or ethnically vary for obvious reasons, but the problems remain the same.
Changes in play and those yet to be rolled out do not include us. They never have or will. Unless we take the courageous step and inject ourselves into the equation now.
Never in the history of our industry have we had technology that has leveled the playing field. With these advantages, we can challenge what doesn't make sense to us and, for the first time, have our voices be heard as individuals and as a collective. Ultimately (if chosen), we have an opportunity to be considered, consulted, and play a significant roll in the voice that can make decisions in ways that favor us - at last.
We are Professional stylists like you. We've been affected, and we're biased. Our goal is to see if we stand alone or, if you and others agree there's a conflict of interest between our partners and us that's in play. To what degree is a big part of our curiosity. If the research and data support our hypotheses, we intend to collaborate with you to demonstrate how.
We believe an individual voice, yours, when joined forces with other like-minded stylist's in your Provence, Region, or Country, can amass the positive course correction we're in great need of. The vision is to look back and know we've enhanced the relationship between our partners, and this has resulted in a more fulfilling and inspired career and a healthier representation of us, The Pro Stylist.
But first, it would be wise to address our needs and wants. Once we have this, we'll be in great shape to articulate this with our partners in a way that's constructive, meaningful, profitable, sustainable, and considerate of us both. Failing this now will result in the past just becoming our future. They have all the control; we have zero. They control all the possibilities; we will not.
Inside is a space waiting for you. It's a straightforward and easy-to-navigate Conversation Roadmap. It will be our north star as it populates with your Ideas and conversations we believe the industry is ready for now.
You're also welcome to participate as you, or bring your best coffee name and be anonymous. You can even alternate both identities.
What's more important is that you share your ideas and concerns regarding where you believe our industry is headed, your likes and dislikes, and how you think it can be supported in a way that's deemed a fair exchange for our partners and us.
We also need your support to Collaborate, Comment, and Vote on other stylists' ideas. Your contribution will shape the first round of Ideas before we open the doors to the rest of the world.
This may become the most significant and positively driven social experiment in the history of our industry - across all time. That would be nice.
Welcome to the conversation.
Pro everything, has left the building
You do know that our most significant business partner, outside of our landlords (the Redkens, Paul Mitchels, Goldwells, Loreals, etc.), has left the building, right?
Ah hello! It's not like we haven't noticed. But have we acknowledged this? Have you? Have we called it for what's taken place here—like, really taken place? Have you? And have we taken a few minutes to ponder the colossal loss to us if left alone and nothing done? Have you?
This is a big deal, even if you're not ready or willing to face it, that we totally get. But we're assuming you also failed to receive the "bye, Felicia" memo, yes/no? Or, was it just us?
Ah hello! It's not like we haven't noticed. But have we acknowledged this? Have you? Have we called it for what's taken place here—like, really taken place? Have you? And have we taken a few minutes to ponder the colossal loss to us if left alone and nothing done? Have you?
This is a big deal, even if you're not ready or willing to face it, that we totally get. But we're assuming you also failed to receive the "bye, Felicia" memo, yes/no? Or, was it just us?
We miss you. RIP Mum xox.
We're using humor because when you've known of the affair for forty-something years as we have, a meltdown at this point may appear melodramatic and victim'ish. And while many of us may accept melodramatic, but victim anything ain't us. Nope!
Opportunity: Technology offers ways to no longer be disenfranchised. We have options, good ones. If we chose well, and collaborate, we can take ownership of the entire Pro space. And, hold onto it for the rest of time. But, if we're going to 'take back the house' then we should do that before they do. Again!
Opportunity: Technology offers ways to no longer be disenfranchised. We have options, good ones. If we chose well, and collaborate, we can take ownership of the entire Pro space. And, hold onto it for the rest of time. But, if we're going to 'take back the house' then we should do that before they do. Again!
The term Pro goes with em
Why the hooplah?
The second a Pro-product hits the shelf of an Un-pro or big-box retail store, by default, it can no longer be deemed an exclusive Pro-only product. That's a fact. We all know this (we think/hope/pray).
Why is this a problem?
because products meant for us are now simultaneously living on unprofessional shelves.
And why is this a problem?
It means our partners are selling Pro products to Un-pro vendors.
And why is this a problem?
Because it's both unconscionable and too hard to explain to our clients how it is that we're Professionals. It's easier to just say we're Professional'ish.
And why is this a problem?
They're giving Non-pros the license to sell Pro-products online. They forbid us to sell online. This is known as hypocrisy in the English language.
And why is this a problem?
In the most opportune time for us to be capitalizing and growing our digital franchises and online profit centers, we're forbidden to enter the digital market.
And why is this a problem?
If we do, we will lose our ability to sell their products, and our accounts closed down. It's in writing - and we have to agree and sign it - or we get no Pro-products. (No big deal now when you think about it).
And why is this a problem?
Because we have no choice or voice.
And why is this a problem?
They're allowing others to sell to our clients.
And why is this a problem?
We have no flipping idea where or what our clients are using on their hair.
And why is this a problem?
I'm over this why game BTW, but we're now giving private consultations followed by prescriptions on products our clients simply buy cheaper elsewhere.
And why is this a problem?
We look like a bunch of fouls yes/no?
And why is this a problem?
Because our partners, one in particular, have found it just too darn difficult to carve out a slither of the 32 billion euros generated in 2021 to allow us to have a little dignity in the form of a replacement product range that would once more distinguish us. They've never given us a replacement - in 40 years. (open to be challenged).
And why is this a problem?
Because it brings up vomit in my mouth.
And why is this a problem?
After I spit up, I ponder how we've lost everything that was once ours.
And why is this a problem?
being surgically removed from the exclusivity means we must now share this revenue.
And why is this a problem?
Retail is one of the few distinguishing profit centers left that up until now - they'd not fully taken and given to our replacement.
And why is this a problem?
Their choice of supplant has no education, knowledge, experience, wisdom, certification, and is unsafe.
And why is this a problem?
It's a mighty insult, that's why! And makes all the education we needed a scam if those who now sell it are not required to endure the same level of training. Sham or scam? you pick.
And why is this a problem?
We've never owned or governed the term Pro.
And why is this a problem?
because we neither have the power or the endless checkbook to have any influence over the term, or those who control it.
And why is this a problem?
We'll forever be at the mercy of what, where, how and why they'll use the term Pro.
And why is this a problem?
«ecause unguarded by us (as it's been) allows them (and any/everyone) to continue to abuse, and bastardize the term till its death.
And why is this a problem?
because we'll forever have to share the term with Un-pros like Amazon and Walmart until the term dies.
And why is this a problem?
Coz we're gonna die with it. If not before, as per their intent.
And why is this a problem?
«ecause they've chipped away at everything we once owned as a Professional Stylist, and therefor I've never been able to really make good money. Therefore I've little to no life savings.
And why is this a problem?
It's left me with little to no life savings to pay for a burial plot or funeral services!!! (Unless Loreal and the like are now paying for our death expences as compensation? That'd be something at least yes/no?).
Opportunity: We can reject the Professional term and form our own. One we own as a Coop, or form of collective. We trademark it, manage it, and if need be, monetize it. Owned by the industry, controlled by us. Who, where, and how it's used.
The second a Pro-product hits the shelf of an Un-pro or big-box retail store, by default, it can no longer be deemed an exclusive Pro-only product. That's a fact. We all know this (we think/hope/pray).
Why is this a problem?
because products meant for us are now simultaneously living on unprofessional shelves.
And why is this a problem?
It means our partners are selling Pro products to Un-pro vendors.
And why is this a problem?
Because it's both unconscionable and too hard to explain to our clients how it is that we're Professionals. It's easier to just say we're Professional'ish.
And why is this a problem?
They're giving Non-pros the license to sell Pro-products online. They forbid us to sell online. This is known as hypocrisy in the English language.
And why is this a problem?
In the most opportune time for us to be capitalizing and growing our digital franchises and online profit centers, we're forbidden to enter the digital market.
And why is this a problem?
If we do, we will lose our ability to sell their products, and our accounts closed down. It's in writing - and we have to agree and sign it - or we get no Pro-products. (No big deal now when you think about it).
And why is this a problem?
Because we have no choice or voice.
And why is this a problem?
They're allowing others to sell to our clients.
And why is this a problem?
We have no flipping idea where or what our clients are using on their hair.
And why is this a problem?
I'm over this why game BTW, but we're now giving private consultations followed by prescriptions on products our clients simply buy cheaper elsewhere.
And why is this a problem?
We look like a bunch of fouls yes/no?
And why is this a problem?
Because our partners, one in particular, have found it just too darn difficult to carve out a slither of the 32 billion euros generated in 2021 to allow us to have a little dignity in the form of a replacement product range that would once more distinguish us. They've never given us a replacement - in 40 years. (open to be challenged).
And why is this a problem?
Because it brings up vomit in my mouth.
And why is this a problem?
After I spit up, I ponder how we've lost everything that was once ours.
And why is this a problem?
being surgically removed from the exclusivity means we must now share this revenue.
And why is this a problem?
Retail is one of the few distinguishing profit centers left that up until now - they'd not fully taken and given to our replacement.
And why is this a problem?
Their choice of supplant has no education, knowledge, experience, wisdom, certification, and is unsafe.
And why is this a problem?
It's a mighty insult, that's why! And makes all the education we needed a scam if those who now sell it are not required to endure the same level of training. Sham or scam? you pick.
And why is this a problem?
We've never owned or governed the term Pro.
And why is this a problem?
because we neither have the power or the endless checkbook to have any influence over the term, or those who control it.
And why is this a problem?
We'll forever be at the mercy of what, where, how and why they'll use the term Pro.
And why is this a problem?
«ecause unguarded by us (as it's been) allows them (and any/everyone) to continue to abuse, and bastardize the term till its death.
And why is this a problem?
because we'll forever have to share the term with Un-pros like Amazon and Walmart until the term dies.
And why is this a problem?
Coz we're gonna die with it. If not before, as per their intent.
And why is this a problem?
«ecause they've chipped away at everything we once owned as a Professional Stylist, and therefor I've never been able to really make good money. Therefore I've little to no life savings.
And why is this a problem?
It's left me with little to no life savings to pay for a burial plot or funeral services!!! (Unless Loreal and the like are now paying for our death expences as compensation? That'd be something at least yes/no?).
Opportunity: We can reject the Professional term and form our own. One we own as a Coop, or form of collective. We trademark it, manage it, and if need be, monetize it. Owned by the industry, controlled by us. Who, where, and how it's used.
- 1: Vote on Ideas
- 2: Comment on Ideas
- 3: Start a Conversation
- 4: Join Conversation Huddles
Our gifts for trusting us in these early days. We're hosting two complimentary event types to say thanks. Go-Pro Group Office Hours and Go-Pro Private Office Hours is how we'd like to share ideas we've established over the past several months. We believe they can be used to distinguish ourselves as Pros of a different sort in 2023.
5 Go-Pro Points
Group Office hours
Group Office hours
What is it?
A 60-minute video call where we'll share how we can set ourselves apart in a genuine, authentic way by distinguishing ourselves as Pros of a different sort.
How to earn 5 Points:
1. Subscribe: 1 pts
2. Comment/Vote or start a Topic: 3 pts
3. Follow us on IG: 1 pt.
A 60-minute video call where we'll share how we can set ourselves apart in a genuine, authentic way by distinguishing ourselves as Pros of a different sort.
How to earn 5 Points:
1. Subscribe: 1 pts
2. Comment/Vote or start a Topic: 3 pts
3. Follow us on IG: 1 pt.
10 Go-Pro Points
Private Office hours
Private Office hours
What is it?
A private 30-minute one-on-one video call designed to provide support on any topic you'd like. Career, finances, business building - you name it.
How to earn double points:
1. Share your Invite Code URL
2. Your mate also subscribes: 2 pts
3. They Comment/Vote or start a Topic: 6 pts.
4. They also follow us on IG: 2 pt.
A private 30-minute one-on-one video call designed to provide support on any topic you'd like. Career, finances, business building - you name it.
How to earn double points:
1. Share your Invite Code URL
2. Your mate also subscribes: 2 pts
3. They Comment/Vote or start a Topic: 6 pts.
4. They also follow us on IG: 2 pt.
To be the voice for positive change as well as navigate and facilitate the course correction we're on. However the only way this can be achieved is with a private, secure place. A safe place where our conversations are protected.
The next three to seven years will see some of the most significant shifts of all time. It's our intent that we use this platform to find ways of being included in these changes with our voices.
We have technology on our side. We can develop solutions that inject ourselves into the solution if we choose. But the impact on us will be catastrophic and irreversible if we do nothing.
The next three to seven years will see some of the most significant shifts of all time. It's our intent that we use this platform to find ways of being included in these changes with our voices.
We have technology on our side. We can develop solutions that inject ourselves into the solution if we choose. But the impact on us will be catastrophic and irreversible if we do nothing.
Slice or dice it however you'd like; the term Professional products/stylist/color blah blah is a bunch of oxymorons.
Our plan: Listening to you guys. Collect and organize your thoughts and concerns. Document the real issues. Use a collective approach to ask what you'd like done and how you'd like the future of you and your industry to pan out. Then we can present it to our partners and facilitate the course correction our lives and industry is on.
Our plan: Listening to you guys. Collect and organize your thoughts and concerns. Document the real issues. Use a collective approach to ask what you'd like done and how you'd like the future of you and your industry to pan out. Then we can present it to our partners and facilitate the course correction our lives and industry is on.
