When Opposites Align

Terry McKee and James Amato
  • 5.0 (11)
  • ENTREPRENEURSHIP

We’ve all witnessed partnerships that implode faster than a DIY haircut…Especially when the partners are polar opposites AND close friends. Buckle up for ‘When Opposites Align,’ the podcast that illustrates the power generated by constructive friction (and LOVE)! We’re your hosts, James Amato and Terry McKee, a duo with a 32-year friendship and a multi-location, 7-figure-grossing business partnership as co-owners of NUOVO Salons. We’ll show you how we came upon the discovery that the integration of these opposite perspectives can propel a project, a team, a company, and YES, the world! Produced by Imaginal Marketing www.imaginalmarketing.com

  1. Episode 13- Scott Buchanan

    JAN 27

    Episode 13- Scott Buchanan

    In this episode of When Opposites Align, Terry McKee and James Amato welcome Scott Buchanan—salon owner, respected industry educator, and President of Intercoiffure America/Canada—for a thoughtful conversation on leadership, service, and the power of community.

    55 min
  2. Episode 12- Shane Wolf

    12/23/2025

    Episode 12- Shane Wolf

    In this episode of When Opposites Align, Terry and James sit down with Shane Wolf, Global Brand President of Aveda, for a powerful conversation on leadership, legacy, and alignment. From his roots behind the chair to leading one of the most iconic brands in the beauty industry, Shane shares how listening, authenticity, and purpose-driven structure are shaping Aveda’s next chapter.

    49 min
  3. Episode 11- Hannah Thomas

    11/18/2025

    Episode 11- Hannah Thomas

    In this episode of When Opposites Align, Terry and James sit down with Hannah Thomas, one of NUOVO Salon Group’s rising stars and winner of the Intercoiffure America/Canada Nouveau competition in New York City. Representing the next generation of NUOVO talent, Hannah shares her journey from beauty school to the big stage—and the lessons learned along the way. She opens up about the power of mentorship, the balance between creativity and structure, and how saying “yes” to new opportunities can change everything. With authenticity, humor, and heart, Hannah proves that passion, community, and courage are the ultimate formula for success.

    34 min
  4. Episode 10- Candy Shaw

    10/06/2025

    Episode 10- Candy Shaw

    In this episode of When Opposites Align, James and Terry welcome industry icon Candy Shaw, known around the world as the “Balay Lama.” From building a salon empire to revolutionizing hair education, Candy shares her incredible journey rooted in passion, perseverance, and purpose. She reflects on the role of mentorship and family in shaping her career, the lessons she’s learned balancing artistry with business, and why she believes education is the heartbeat of the beauty industry. Candy’s story is a masterclass in resilience and reinvention—an inspiring listen for anyone who believes in the power of hard work, heart, and a little bit of hair magic.

    56 min
  5. Episode 9- Debbie Penzone

    09/08/2025

    Episode 9- Debbie Penzone

    In this episode of When Opposites Align, James and Terry sit down with Debbie Penzone, CEO of PENZONE Salons + Spas and a true visionary in the beauty industry. Debbie opens up about her journey from hairstylist to executive leader, and how she’s reimagining salon culture with a focus on mindfulness, wellness and community. The conversation touches on: - Building a people-first culture in the beauty industry - How mindfulness and yoga shape her leadership style - Embracing innovation while staying true to core values - The importance of resilience, adaptability, and authenticity in business Debbie’s story is one of courage, compassion, and reinvention—an inspiring listen for entrepreneurs, creatives, and beauty professionals alike.

    49 min
  6. Episode 8- Terry & James Unplugged

    08/21/2025

    Episode 8- Terry & James Unplugged

    In this special unplugged episode of When Opposites Align, Terry McKee and James Amato put the mics on each other. With no guest and no script, the longtime friends and business partners go deep on what it really takes to build something lasting—together. They share candid reflections on their 37-year journey of leading NUOVO, the challenges of being opposites in both personality and perspective, and how honoring differences has been the key to their success. From human design to emotional intelligence, creative sparks to spreadsheets, it’s all on the table. If you’ve ever wondered how two very different people can thrive in business (and friendship), this episode is for you.

    48 min
  7. Episode 7- Andi Alleman

    07/14/2025

    Episode 7- Andi Alleman

    In this episode of When Opposites Align, James and Terry chat with branding expert and Oui, We Studio founder Andi Alleman. Andi shares how she blends emotional intelligence, human design, and AI to help creatives build authentic brands. From her beauty industry roots to her game-changing sabbatical in Spain, this episode explores how purpose and technology can align to create something truly impactful.

    54 min
  8. Episode 6-Jay Williams

    06/09/2025

    Episode 6-Jay Williams

    James Amato and Terry McKee, hosts of "When Opposites Align," interview beauty industry icon and executive coach, Jay Williams. Discover how their seemingly opposite perspectives align to uncover powerful insights from Williams, author of "This Versus That: Better Thinking, Better Choices, Better Leader." This episode explores the critical role of emotional intelligence in the beauty industry, leadership, and personal growth, offering tangible takeaways for both seasoned professionals and aspiring leaders.

    1h 1m
See All (13)

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
11 Ratings

About

We’ve all witnessed partnerships that implode faster than a DIY haircut…Especially when the partners are polar opposites AND close friends. Buckle up for ‘When Opposites Align,’ the podcast that illustrates the power generated by constructive friction (and LOVE)! We’re your hosts, James Amato and Terry McKee, a duo with a 32-year friendship and a multi-location, 7-figure-grossing business partnership as co-owners of NUOVO Salons. We’ll show you how we came upon the discovery that the integration of these opposite perspectives can propel a project, a team, a company, and YES, the world! Produced by Imaginal Marketing www.imaginalmarketing.com

Information

  • Creator
    Terry McKee and James Amato
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    13
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Show Website
    When Opposites Align