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. Oct 8

    S2 Ep.10 - Education & Qualifications with Paul Mills.

    To close Season 2, Louis Driver and Jacqui McIntosh are joined by Paul Mills, Assessment and Quality Manager at Skills England, for a vital conversation about hairdressing education, qualifications, standards and the future of the industry. Drawing on decades of experience as a hairdresser, barber, lecturer, qualification developer and quality-assurance professional, Paul explains the systems that sit behind training and assessment. They discuss National Occupational Standards, apprenticeships, end-point assessment, competition work, quality assurance and why teaching skill is different from simply having it. The conversation also addresses the need for stronger theory, better understanding of hair and scalp health, and more confidence in working across different hair needs. The episode closes with the introduction of Avlon ACE — Avlon Curl Expert — a certification designed to deepen knowledge around curls, coils, hair properties, scalp health and practical professional understanding. Key Topics Covered Paul Mills’ journey from hairdresser and barber to Skills EnglandNational Occupational Standards and what they mean in hairdressingEducation across different hair needs and professional confidenceWhy qualifications, curricula and funding matterCompetition work as a way to develop standards and resilienceTraining the trainer and understanding quality assuranceWhat makes an apprenticeship effectiveIndependent assessment and the role of end-point assessmentWhy the industry needs more theory, hair knowledge and scalp awarenessHairdressing, trichology and the changing needs of clientsIntroducing Avlon ACE — Avlon Curl Expert certification Stay Connected Follow the hosts: Louis Driver: @louisdoeshair Jacqui McIntosh: @jacqui.mcintosh 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. Oct 1

    S2 Ep.9 - Legacy & Evolution with Errol Douglas MBE.

    What does it take to build a career that lasts — while continuing to evolve? Louis Driver and Jacqui McIntosh are joined by Errol Douglas MBE for a candid conversation about legacy, technical excellence, mentorship and the art of hairdressing. Errol reflects on building an international career, establishing his Knightsbridge salon and mentoring generations of stylists. He shares why he sees himself as a visual artist rather than being defined by one category of hair, why a broad understanding of hair is essential, and why relationships remain at the heart of the profession. They also explore Errol’s awards journey: the creative ambition behind his collections, the resilience required to keep entering, evolving and putting work forward, and the personal meaning of being recognised on an international stage. Errol reflects on receiving his MBE for his contribution to education, charity and mentoring — and why that moment, shared with his family, remains one of the most significant of his career. From creative direction and salon standards to client confidentiality and staying ahead of what is next, this episode is an honest conversation about building a meaningful career — grounded in skill, curiosity, professionalism and passion. Key Topics Covered Errol Douglas MBE’s career, Knightsbridge salon and international workTechnical excellence and understanding hair across different needsWhy Errol identifies as a visual artistBuilding a salon team and mentoring the next generationThe importance of being present and hands-on as a leaderCreativity, collections and staying ahead of trendsErrol’s awards journey and international recognitionResilience, reinvention and continuing to put your work forwardReceiving an MBE and the recognition of education, charity work and mentoringThe personal and family significance of the investitureThe personal meaning behind achievement and recognitionWorking with purpose across salon, stage, editorial and educationClient relationships, confidentiality and professional standardsProtecting the reputation of hairdressing in the social-media ageCuriosity, research and never stopping learningLegacy, passion and building a career with purpose Stay Connected Follow the hosts: Louis Driver: @louisdoeshair Jacqui McIntosh: @jacqui.mcintosh Follow Errol Douglas MBE: @erroldouglashair @erroldouglasldn @erroldouglas.club 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 24

    S2 Ep.8 - Avlon Inspire Club with Ladelle Fauvette & Nana Mills.

    Avlon Inspire Club was created to give back to the salons that continue to support the brand. In this episode of The Detangled Podcast by Avlon, Louis Driver and Jacqui McIntosh are joined by Ladelle Fauvette, Avlon Inspire Club Manager, and Nana Mills from Yana Hair Sanctuary to explore the purpose behind the Club: inspiring and educating salon professionals through meaningful, ongoing support. They discuss how Inspire Club has grown into a space where salons can access education, ask questions, connect with other professionals and develop their business with confidence. From specialist sessions and practical product knowledge to Salon Spotlight, networking and client education, the conversation centres on helping salons feel seen, supported and equipped to keep moving forward. More than a membership, Inspire Club is about investing in the people behind the chair — sharing knowledge, creating opportunity and helping salons deliver even more for their clients. Key Topics Covered Why Avlon Inspire Club was createdGiving back to the salons that support AvlonInspiring and educating salon professionals beyond product knowledgeCreating a supportive space for questions, learning and growthThe role of continued education in building salon confidenceInspire Talk sessions, including mixology, scalpology and menopause educationSalon Spotlight and giving salons greater visibilityBuilding connection and networking opportunities across the salon communityHow Nana Mills and Yana Hair Sanctuary use Inspire Club learning with clientsScalp care, bespoke treatments and client educationSupporting salons at different stages and sizes through the membership structureCreating opportunity, sharing knowledge and raising standards together Stay Connected Follow the hosts: Louis Driver: @louisdoeshair Jacqui McIntosh: @jacqui.mcintosh Follow the guests: @yanahairsanctuary @ladellefauvette 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/

  4. Sep 17

    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/

  5. 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/

  6. 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/

  7. 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/

  8. 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/

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