The Detangled Podcast

Avlon

The Detangled Podcast by Avlon is a space for hair professionals, curious consumers, and anyone passionate about curls, coils, and hair care. Hosted by Avlon’s European Education Director Jacqui McIntosh and Brand Educator Louis Driver, each episode explores the science, creativity, culture, and lived experience of people who are immersed in the Avlon ecosystem or connected to it. Whether it is education, product knowledge, or industry insight, we are here to build understanding and share honest, informed perspectives. Consider this podcast an essential addition to your hair care routine. Together, we are building community, strand by strand. Avlon is the science of hair care, with an education-led approach that supports professionals and the clients they serve. The Detangled Podcast by Avlon is an extension of that commitment to education and to its community of consumers and professionals. Stay Connected Like, subscribe, and leave a review. Join the conversation with us on social media: Avlon Europe: @avlonuk Avlon: @avlon Follow our hosts: Jacqui McIntosh: @jacqui.mcintosh Louis Driver: @louisdoeshair www.avloneurope.co.uk www.avlon.com

  1. 3d ago

    S2 Ep.7 - The Bigger Picture with Desmond Murray.

    What happens when a hairdresser learns to see the whole image? Louis Driver and Jacqui McIntosh are joined by award-winning hairstylist and photographer Desmond Murray for a wide-ranging conversation about creativity, career-building, competition work, hair photography and the value of mentorship. Desmond reflects on his route into hairdressing, the people who shaped him and how learning photography changed the way he creates and sees hair. He explains why a successful image is about far more than the hair alone: it is the model, styling, make-up, clothes, lighting, concept and shared direction behind the lens. From mood boards and creative risk to the role of AI and the importance of choosing good role models, this episode is a generous look at the work behind an enduring creative career. Key Topics Covered Desmond Murray’s journey into hairdressing and photographyEarly mentors, discipline and learning through observationCompetition work, resilience and stepping outside your comfort zoneHow photography changed his approach to hair imageryWhy hair is one part of a bigger visual storyChoosing models, creating a concept and using mood boardsHair collections, awards and the value of continual growthAI, photography and keeping human creativity at the centreFinding passion, choosing role models and being willing to graft Stay Connected Follow the hosts: Louis Driver: @louisdoeshair Jacqui McIntosh: @jacqui.mcintosh Follow Desmond Murray: @desmondmurray Follow Avlon: Avlon: @avlon Avlon UK: @avlonuk Production Credits Producers: Louis Driver & Jacqui McIntosh Recorded at: Storyhouse Studios — @storyhouse_studios The Detangled Podcast is part of Avlon Europe. Discover more at: https://avloneurope.co.uk/

  2. Sep 10

    S2 Ep.6 - The Renaissance Stylist with Lorraine Dublin.

    In this episode of The Detangled Podcast by Avlon, Louis Driver and Jacqui McIntosh are joined by Lorraine Dublin — celebrity stylist, educator and salon co-owner with 27 years of experience across salon, screen and session work. Lorraine shares the real foundations of a career that has taken her from the salon chair to red carpets, television and major film productions. She discusses the technical range, professionalism and adaptability needed to work across different settings — and why the skills built behind the chair are what make every other opportunity possible. This is a conversation about trusting your craft, staying open to opportunities and continuing to learn. From working under pressure and making styles last, to meaningful consultations, education for curls and coils, and building a salon space that supports independent professionals, Lorraine offers a grounded perspective on what it takes to build a lasting career in hairdressing. Key Topics Covered Lorraine Dublin’s career across salon, screen, session work and educationBuilding a career through trusted relationships and recommendationsThe technical skill, preparation and adaptability behind high-pressure stylingWhy every client, whatever the setting, deserves the same level of serviceMaking a style last when time is shortThe value of strong consultations and understanding individual hair goalsWorking across different hair needs, techniques and styling outcomesCo-owning a salon space and supporting independent professionalsWhy curls and coils education needs depth, time and practical experienceThe importance of qualifications, fundamentals and salon experienceWhy demonstrated skill matters more than online visibilityStaying open to opportunities, learning from every job and letting your work speak for itself Stay Connected Follow the hosts: Louis Driver: @louisdoeshair Jacqui McIntosh: @jacqui.mcintosh Follow Lorraine Dublin: @lorraine_dublin Follow Avlon: Avlon: @avlon Avlon UK: @avlonuk Production Credits Producers: Louis Driver & Jacqui McIntosh Recorded at: Storyhouse Studios — @storyhouse_studios The Detangled Podcast is part of Avlon Europe. Discover more at: https://avloneurope.co.uk/

  3. Sep 3

    S2 Ep.5 - Independent & Avlon with Rachel Feltham.

    In this episode of The Detangled Podcast by Avlon, Louis Driver and Jacqui McIntosh are joined by freelance hairdresser and Avlon educator Rachel Feltham, who runs her own home-based studio. Rachel shares the energy, curiosity and continual thinking behind building an independent career in hairdressing. From creating a professional space at home and developing her own way of working, to navigating social media, education and visibility within the industry, this is a conversation about building a career that reflects who you are. For professionals who want to keep learning, keep questioning and keep moving forward, Rachel offers an honest perspective on independence, creativity and trusting your own direction. Key Topics Covered Building a freelance hairdressing career from a home-based studio Creating a professional salon experience within a home setting Finding independence and developing your own way of working Creativity, curiosity and keeping ideas moving Growing confidence in your craft and career decisions Rachel’s journey into education and becoming an Avlon educator The value of continued learning and professional development Navigating social media as an independent hairdresser Using social media to share work, build community and create visibility Staying connected to the wider hair industry beyond the salon chair Stay Connected Follow the hosts: Louis Driver: @louisdoeshair Jacqui McIntosh: @jacqui.mcintosh Follow Rachel Feltham: @rachelhhairstudio Follow Avlon: Avlon: @avlon Avlon UK: @avlonuk Production Credits Producers: Louis Driver & Jacqui McIntosh Recorded at: Storyhouse Studios — @storyhouse_studios Cover Artwork Illustration: @bibanabi Cover Design: Louis Driver The Detangled Podcast is part of Avlon Europe. Discover more at: https://avloneurope.co.uk/

  4. Aug 27

    S2 Ep 4 - Relax or Release? with Samantha Golding.

    Relaxers are one of the most talked-about — and misunderstood — services in haircare. In this episode of The Detangled Podcast by Avlon, Louis Driver and Jacqui McIntosh are joined by Samantha Golding, founder of SG Hair Birmingham and a chemical-services specialist with more than 30 years of in-salon experience. Together, they demystify relaxers: challenging the idea that they are automatically harsh, outdated or one-size-fits-all, and bringing the conversation back to knowledge, choice and professional expertise. Samantha explains that a relaxer is not simply a product or a process. In the right professional hands, it is a prescriptive service shaped around the client’s hair, scalp, styling goals, lifestyle and commitment to aftercare. She also explores where Texture Release may fit into a client’s journey, but keeps the focus on the detail, assessment and understanding required before any chemical service takes place. From misinformation online to scalp analysis, hair mapping, home care and the reality of maintaining a style, this is a grounded conversation about what relaxers can be — when education and experience lead the way. Revised Key Topics Covered Demystifying relaxers and challenging common misconceptionsWhy relaxers are not automatically harsh or one-size-fits-allSamantha Golding’s 30 years of in-salon chemical-service experienceThe difference between online “knowledge” and informed professional adviceHow relaxer strengths and formulations can be prescribed to individual needsWhy the scalp, skin condition and hair history matterIn-depth consultation, virtual assessment and scalp analysisThe role of hair mapping in professional relaxer servicesTexture Release as one option within a wider, personalised approachMatching a service to a client’s desired look, lifestyle and maintenance routineShampooing, hydration and home care as part of relaxer longevityWhy skilled application, training and professional judgement are essentialStay Connected Follow the hosts: Louis Driver: @louisdoeshair Jacqui McIntosh: @jacqui.mcintosh Follow Samantha Golding / SG Hair Birmingham: @sghairsalon Follow Avlon: Avlon: @avlon Avlon UK: @avlonuk Production Credits Producers: Louis Driver & Jacqui McIntosh Recorded at: Storyhouse Studios — @storyhouse_studios The Detangled Podcast is part of Avlon Europe. Discover more at: https://avloneurope.co.uk/

  5. Aug 20

    S2 ep.3 - Heated - Styling & Awareness with Nancy Rae for Cloudnine.

    Heat styling does not have to be feared — but it does need to be understood. Louis Driver and Jacqui McIntosh are joined by Nancy Rae, Digital Marketing Coordinator at Cloud Nine, to discuss heat protection, heat damage, styling temperature and the everyday habits that can make a difference to the condition of the hair. Together, they challenge the idea that one temperature suits everyone and explore how hair condition, chemical services, lifestyle and desired result should all inform how heat is used. They cover the importance of preparation, sectioning, hydration, appropriate tools and salon-to-home education. Whether you use straighteners, a blow-dryer or a diffuser, this episode offers a more thoughtful way to approach heat styling — with room for choice, creativity and healthy-looking hair. Key Topics Covered Why one heat setting does not suit every head of hairHeat styling for curls, coils, colour-treated and chemically treated hairHeat protectant, hydration and preparation before stylingWhy correct sectioning can reduce repeated passesThe difference between salon heat styling and home maintenanceCommon myths around “optimum” styling temperaturesHeat awareness during menopause, postpartum changes and other life stagesMaintaining colour, shine and condition when using heated toolsCloud Nine’s Temperature Calculator and Healthy Hair HubGiving clients the confidence to style safely at home Stay Connected Follow the hosts: Louis Driver: @louisdoeshair Jacqui McIntosh: @jacqui.mcintosh Follow Avlon: Avlon: @avlon Avlon UK: @avlonuk Follow Cloud Nine: @nancyrae_ @cloudninehair Temperature Calculator: https://www.cloudninehair.com/pages/temperature-calculator Production Credits Producers: Louis Driver & Jacqui McIntosh Recorded at: Storyhouse Studios — @storyhouse_studios The Detangled Podcast is part of Avlon Europe. Discover more at: https://avloneurope.co.uk/

  6. Aug 13

    S2 Ep.2 - Curl Confessions with Blair Lawrence-Broughton & Jess Mcintosh

    What does it mean to grow up with curly hair — and how does that relationship change as you get older? In this episode of The Detangled Podcast by Avlon, Louis Driver and Jacqui McIntosh are joined by Blair Lawrence-Broughton and Jess McIntosh for an honest conversation about hair stories, family influence, confidence and learning what works for you. From childhood hair routines and big hair changes to learning how to care for curls independently, they share the personal moments that shape how we see and wear our hair. They also discuss chemical services, natural hair journeys, maintenance, trusting the person in charge of your hair and why curiosity is an important part of finding a routine that works. This episode is a warm, lived-experience conversation about choice, care and making your own hair story. Key Topics Covered Growing up with curly hair and learning to care for itFamily influence, trust and salon experiencesHair identity, confidence and personal styleCutting hair, starting again and embracing changeRelaxers, Texture Release and having optionsHair maintenance, treatments and creating a realistic routineHeat styling, aftercare and protecting the hairFinding a stylist or salon you can trustWhy curiosity and reliable information matter Stay Connected Follow the hosts: Louis Driver: @louisdoeshair Jacqui McIntosh: @jacqui.mcintosh Follow the guests: Blair Lawrence-Broughton: @blairl1 Jess McIntosh: @sunsetjes Follow Avlon: Avlon: @avlon Avlon UK: @avlonuk Production Credits Producers: Louis Driver & Jacqui McIntosh Recorded at: Storyhouse Studios — @storyhouse_studios The Detangled Podcast is part of Avlon Europe. Discover more at: https://avloneurope.co.uk/

  7. Aug 6

    S2 Ep.1 - Is Texture Still Trending?

    What does “texture” really mean in hairdressing today — and is it still the most useful word to use?  In the Season 2 opener of The Detangled Podcast by Avlon, Louis Driver and Jacqui McIntosh explore the language of curly hair: curl patterns, hair characteristics, hair classification and the individuality of every head of hair. They discuss why broad labels can create confusion, why consultations need to go beyond hair type, and how hair science, practical experience and ongoing education can help professionals work with greater confidence.  This is an open conversation for hair professionals, students and anyone curious about curls and coils — not about finding one perfect label but asking better questions and understanding hair more deeply.  Key Topics Covered  What “texture” means in modern hairdressing  Why broad labels can create confusion for clients and professionals  The difference between curl pattern, hair type and hair characteristics  Curl classification as a reference point, not a complete diagnosis  Why every client needs an individual consultation  The influence of social media and online hair advice  Why hair science, theory and technique need to work together  How hands-on learning builds professional confidence  The value of structured education for working with curls and coils  Avlon’s approach to product development, education and versatile haircare  Louis and Jacqui’s current Avlon product favourite  Stay Connected  Follow the hosts: Louis Driver: @louisdoeshair Jacqui McIntosh: @jacqui.mcintosh  Follow Avlon: Avlon Europe: @avlon Avlon: @avlon    Production Credits  Producers: Louis Driver & Jacqui McIntosh Recorded at: Storyhouse Studios - @storyhouse_studios   The Detangled Podcast is part of Avlon Europe. Discover more at -https://avloneurope.co.uk/

  8. 12/30/2025

    Ep.12 The Year in Review 2025

    In this special bonus episode of The Detangled Podcast, Louis and Jacqui pause to reflect on the year that has passed, both personally and professionally, and take stock of the moments, conversations, and developments that have shaped their work. They revisit key highlights from the year, including the growth of the podcast, live education moments, international projects, and the evolving direction of education within Avlon. Through open conversation, they explore how the brand continues to push boundaries, respond to the changing landscape of the hair industry, and remain rooted in science-led, inclusive haircare. The episode also looks ahead, with Louis and Jacqui sharing insights into what is next, from the evolution of education and professional standards to future projects, collaborations, and the next phase of The Detangled Podcast. Thoughtful, reflective, and future-facing, this bonus episode offers listeners a behind-the-scenes look at a brand and partnership in motion. Key Topics Covered Reflecting on the past year and its defining momentsGrowth and reception of The Detangled PodcastEducation, innovation, and science-led haircare at AvlonInternational work, live education, and community buildingThe importance of professional standards and continued learningLooking ahead to future projects, education pathways, and Season TwoStay Connected Follow the hosts: Louis Driver: @louisdoeshair Jacqui McIntosh: @jacqui.mcintosh Follow Avlon: Avlon Europe: @Avlonuk Avlon: @Avlon Production Credits Producers: Louis Driver & Jacqui McIntosh Artwork Illustration: @bibanabi Cover Design: Louis Driver

    Ep.12 The Year in Review 2025

About

The Detangled Podcast by Avlon is a space for hair professionals, curious consumers, and anyone passionate about curls, coils, and hair care. Hosted by Avlon’s European Education Director Jacqui McIntosh and Brand Educator Louis Driver, each episode explores the science, creativity, culture, and lived experience of people who are immersed in the Avlon ecosystem or connected to it. Whether it is education, product knowledge, or industry insight, we are here to build understanding and share honest, informed perspectives. Consider this podcast an essential addition to your hair care routine. Together, we are building community, strand by strand. Avlon is the science of hair care, with an education-led approach that supports professionals and the clients they serve. The Detangled Podcast by Avlon is an extension of that commitment to education and to its community of consumers and professionals. Stay Connected Like, subscribe, and leave a review. Join the conversation with us on social media: Avlon Europe: @avlonuk Avlon: @avlon Follow our hosts: Jacqui McIntosh: @jacqui.mcintosh Louis Driver: @louisdoeshair www.avloneurope.co.uk www.avlon.com

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