Jen Atkin Returns! The Founder of Ouai and Author of Blowing My Way to the Top Is Back
Dec 7, 2020
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Celebrity hairstylist and founder of Ouai, Jen Atkin, discusses expanding her brand into a lifestyle brand, her new book 'Blowing My Way to the Top,' challenges faced in 2020, product expansion beyond haircare, navigating challenges and finding growth, and advice for diversifying careers.
Jen Atkin successfully expanded her brand, Ouai, into a holistic lifestyle brand by introducing new categories like fragrance, hand care, and solution-based haircare remedies.
Jen Atkin emphasizes the importance of investing in oneself, building a supportive network, and finding mentors for aspiring hairstylists and entrepreneurs.
Deep dives
Jen Atkin's journey from hairstylist to a successful entrepreneur
Jen Atkin, a renowned hairstylist and entrepreneur, revisits her career journey since her first appearance on the Second Life podcast. She talks about her upbringing in St. George, Utah, and her desire to pursue a career beyond her small town. Jen discusses how she discovered her passion for hairstyling and broke into the industry in LA. She shares her experiences working in salons, building her brand, and the challenges she faced along the way. Jen also highlights the importance of mentorship, resilience, and embracing change. She provides advice for aspiring hairstylists and entrepreneurs, emphasizing the need to invest in oneself and build a supportive network.
Expanding her brand and launching a book
Jen Atkin discusses the evolution of her brand, Way, from a leading hair care brand to a full-fledged lifestyle brand with product expansions in fragrance and hand care. She also shares her excitement about releasing her highly anticipated book, 'Blowing My Way to the Top,' which combines personal stories with valuable advice on career, business, personal growth, and self-understanding. Jen highlights the importance of creating a positive work culture, taking care of oneself, and finding mentors to navigate through challenges and achieve success. She also emphasizes the power of social media in promoting businesses while balancing authentic connection and taking care of clients.
Lessons learned and challenges faced in 2020
Jen Atkin reflects on the impact of 2020 on her businesses and leadership style. She emphasizes the importance of resilience and adaptability during challenging times. Jen discusses the ways her team navigated through the uncertainties of the year, prioritizing the well-being of her team members and finding ways to support and empower them. She also highlights the role of social media in business promotion and the importance of practicing self-care and maintaining a positive outlook amid the constant hustle and pressure. Jen expresses her appreciation for the resilience and growth she witnessed in herself and others throughout the year.
Advice for aspiring entrepreneurs and individuals navigating career changes
Jen Atkin offers advice to individuals interested in diversifying their careers or exploring new paths. She suggests staying close to a supportive network and surrounding oneself with people who are doing great things. Jen encourages embracing change and being open to new opportunities and experiences. She emphasizes the importance of listening to oneself and pursuing what makes them happy, as well as being prepared for challenges and staying resilient. Jen's final piece of advice is to invest in personal growth, build relationships, and find mentors who can offer guidance and support along the way.
It's been three years since we sat down with Jen Atkin, the celebrity hairstylist and founder of award-winning brand Ouai, and a lot has changed. A savvy businesswoman, Atkin has successfully expanded Ouai into a holistic lifestyle brand by introducing new categories like fragrance, hand care, and solution-based haircare remedies. Tomorrow, December 8, Atkin is making her debut as an author with her memoir and spirited guide Blowing My Way to the Top: How to Break the Rules, Find Your Purpose, and Create the Life and Career You Deserve. On this episode of Second Life, find out what exactly Atkin covers in her book and how she continuously modernizes her brand.