The VIP Suite at IMAGE Studios with Matthew Landis

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Aug 2026

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About the show

The VIP Suite at IMAGE Studios is where beauty, business, and inspiration meet. Hosted by Matthew Landis , IMAGE Studios Director of Education and certified business & marketing coach, this empowering podcast spotlights the stories, strategies, and successes of today’s most driven salon and spa professionals. From hairstylists and estheticians to barbers, makeup artists, massage therapists, nail techs, lash specialists, nurses, and tattoo artists —if you’re in the business of making people look and feel amazing, this show is for you. Each episode brings real conversations, practical insights, and expert advice on growing your business, building your brand, mastering your mindset, and creating a life and career you love. Join our community of salon suite pros who are redefining what success looks like on their own terms. Visit us at imagestudios360.com or follow us on Instagram: @imagestudios360 The VIP Suite is your front-row seat to the conversations that move the beauty and wellness industries forward.

Listen to episodes

46 recent

September 12, 2026Episode 4634 min

From Esthetician to Icon: How Her Business Built Mika Toussaint

In this episode of The VIP Suite, host Matthew Landis sits down with returning guest, IMAGE Icon Mika Toussaint, founder of Dallas Pro Esthetics at IMAGE Studios Dallas Galleria. With over a decade of experience as an esthetician, Mika shares how her second year at IMAGE Studios has transformed not just her business, but her sense of self, moving from pure creativity behind the treatment bed into true entrepreneurship. She opens up about learning the backend of business, building systems (with a little help from AI tools like ChatGPT), and developing the patience to let growth unfold in its own time. Mika also goes deeper into her holistic philosophy that beauty begins from the inside out. She explains why her clients aren’t just seeking better skin, but self-love and transformation, and how she sees herself as a vessel creating a safe, nurturing, “grandma’s house” kind of space where clients feel loved, seen, and restored. From the power of clients who pushed her to bet on herself, to the importance of leadership, community, and mentorship, Mika reflects on what it means to be an IMAGE Icon and what she hopes people remember most about her: how she made them feel—loved, happy, and uplifted. The VIP Suite is the official podcast of IMAGE Studios, created for independent beauty, health, and wellness professionals who want to grow their businesses and thrive in salon suite life. Hosted by Director of Education, Matthew Landis, each episode shares real success stories, marketing tips, and business strategies from top beauty entrepreneurs and wellness leaders. Episodes are sponsored by GlossGenius , the all-in-one salon software. Learn more at glossgenius.com . Episodes are also sponsored by Elite Beauty Society , providing business and long-term career support to beauty & wellness professionals. Learn more at elitebeautyins.com/IMAGE . Don’t forget to follow, rate, and review the show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen. Connect with us on Instagram @imagestudios360 and visit imagestudios360.com for more information about IMAGE Studios luxury salon suites. New episodes drop every two week. Subscribe to hear how beauty and wellness professionals like you are building powerful, independent careers.

August 8, 2026Episode 4535 min

You Are the Niche: Building a Soulful Beauty Business with IMAGE Icon, Susan Seo

In this special IMAGE Icons edition of The VIP Suite, host Matthew Landis sits down with lash artist Susan Seo, owner of Hye Beauty at IMAGE Studios Alameda. Susan shares how watching her father work long hours in construction shaped her approach to discipline, resilience, and earning success and how those lessons guided her transition from a 9–5 desk job into a thriving beauty business. Susan opens up about the realities of entrepreneurship: the initial loneliness of going it alone, discovering community, and why more followers don’t necessarily mean more money . She explains why you are the niche , how to attract the right clients with authentic content, and how customized artistry builds trust and loyalty. They also dive into burnout, boundaries, and self-care, from non-negotiable days off and systems that protect your time, to deposits, rebooking, and saying no without actually saying no. Susan shares the role of continuing education, mastering your mindset, and why taking care of yourself is the most important business strategy you’ll ever implement. The VIP Suite is the official podcast of IMAGE Studios, created for independent beauty, health, and wellness professionals who want to grow their businesses and thrive in salon suite life. Hosted by Director of Education, Matthew Landis, each episode shares real success stories, marketing tips, and business strategies from top beauty entrepreneurs and wellness leaders. Episodes are sponsored by GlossGenius , the all-in-one salon software. Learn more at glossgenius.com . Episodes are also sponsored by Elite Beauty Society , providing business and long-term career support to beauty & wellness professionals. Learn more at elitebeautyins.com/IMAGE . Don’t forget to follow, rate, and review the show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen. Connect with us on Instagram @imagestudios360 and visit imagestudios360.com for more information about IMAGE Studios luxury salon suites. New episodes drop every two week. Subscribe to hear how beauty and wellness professionals like you are building powerful, independent careers.

June 20, 2026Episode 4441 min

Creating Transformational Client Experiences with IMAGE Icon Johan Fitch

In this episode of The VIP Suite, host Matthew Landis sits down with IMAGE Icon 2026–2027, barber and entrepreneur Johan Fitch at IMAGE Studios Melbourne, Florida. Johan describes how his marriage, children, and the miracle of becoming parents despite medical doubts deepened his sense of purpose. For Johan, success is a balance between business and life: he now works four days a week, reserving Sundays–Tuesdays for family, errands, and rest, and emphasizes that true fulfillment comes from consistency, faith, and surrounding yourself with like-minded people. Johan explains why his studio offers “more than a haircut – it’s an experience.” He likens the studio to a pit stop on each client’s life journey, a place to recharge emotionally and spiritually as much as physically. On marketing and content creation, Johan reveals that his videos and messages are born in the chair: he listens deeply to clients’ struggles, then processes those conversations through grounding practices like walking barefoot in the grass and disconnecting from his phone. That reflection becomes the inspiration for his short-form content. A simple car video set to a corridos-style Christian track went viral with 2.2M+ views, driving his Instagram from around 10K to 40K followers and expanding his reach worldwide. Johan reframes FAIL as “First Attempt In Learning” and urges salon suite owners and creatives to stop waiting for perfect conditions: start the video, launch the business, post the content, move cities if needed, and trust that growth comes through action and discomfort. You can follow Johan on Instagram: @cutsbyjohan and TikTok: @cutsbyjohan The VIP Suite is the official podcast of IMAGE Studios, created for independent beauty, health, and wellness professionals who want to grow their businesses and thrive in salon suite life. Hosted by Director of Education, Matthew Landis, each episode shares real success stories, marketing tips, and business strategies from top beauty entrepreneurs and wellness leaders. Episodes are sponsored by GlossGenius , the all-in-one salon software. Learn more at glossgenius.com . Episodes are also sponsored by Elite Beauty Society , providing business and long-term career support to beauty & wellness professionals. Learn more at elitebeautyins.com/IMAGE . Don’t forget to follow, rate, and review the show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen. Connect with us on Instagram @imagestudios360 and visit imagestudios360.com for more information about IMAGE Studios luxury salon suites. New episodes drop every two week. Subscribe to hear how beauty and wellness professionals like you are building powerful, independent careers.

April 24, 2026Episode 4331 min

The Art, Risk, and Reward of Permanent Cosmetics with Jen Lydick

In this episode of The VIP Suite, host Matthew Landis sits down with Jen Lydick , owner of Lydick Label Permanent Cosmetics at IMAGE Studios in Reno, Nevada. Jen pulls back the curtain on one of the most high-trust corners of the beauty industry—permanent cosmetics—where clients literally put their faces in your hands. She shares how the industry has evolved from heavy-handed, “Sharpie brow” techniques to today’s delicate, natural, and highly technical approach, and why lack of regulation means client education and research are more important than ever. Jen also breaks down how skin type, age, and technique impact long-term results, and what to look for when choosing an artist or an educator. Beyond the brows, Jen talks about building a sustainable, in-demand business rooted in integrity, boundaries, and trust. She walks us through her transition from hairstylist and makeup artist to fully booked permanent cosmetics specialist, how she priced and raised her rates with confidence, and why she’s unapologetic about saying no to red-flag clients. Jen also shares how she restructured her schedule to work just three days a week, homeschool her kids, and still keep a thriving business. Whether you’re an artist considering permanent cosmetics, an independent beauty pro building your brand, or a client thinking about your first brow appointment, this episode is packed with honest, practical insights on business, boundaries, and doing work you truly love. Follow Jen on Instagram at @lydicklabel.permanentcosmetics or ok TikTok: @jenlydick. You can also check out her website: lydicklabel.com. The VIP Suite is the official podcast of IMAGE Studios, created for independent beauty, health, and wellness professionals who want to grow their businesses and thrive in salon suite life. Hosted by Director of Education, Matthew Landis, each episode shares real success stories, marketing tips, and business strategies from top beauty entrepreneurs and wellness leaders. Episodes are sponsored by GlossGenius , the all-in-one salon software. Learn more at glossgenius.com . Episodes are also sponsored by Elite Beauty Society , providing business and long-term career support to beauty & wellness professionals. Learn more at elitebeautyins.com/IMAGE . Don’t forget to follow, rate, and review the show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen. Connect with us on Instagram @imagestudios360 and visit imagestudios360.com for more information about IMAGE Studios luxury salon suites. New episodes drop every two week. Subscribe to hear how beauty and wellness professionals like you are building powerful, independent careers.

April 10, 2026Episode 4244 min

On Time, On Point, And Sometimes In Drag: How Todd Peckham Built Multiple Dream Careers

Matthew sits down with Todd Peckham , hairstylist at IMAGE Studios Denver and Denver drag legend, to unpack what it takes to run multiple creative careers at a high level. From course corrections and happy accident, to the non‑negotiable power of being on time, Todd shares the habits that built a loyal clientele over decades. He explains why solid fundamentals, honest communication, and never faking it are the real secrets behind great hair and a fully booked schedule. Todd also takes us behind the lashes into the world of Daniella DeCoteau, his drag persona and the star of Denver’s beloved Drag Stravaganza cabaret. He talks about growing up as the “gay kid” in a tiny Colorado town, inheriting a relentless work ethic from his father, and learning to turn desire and perseverance into sold‑out shows, four times a year, at ever-bigger venues. From navigating family dynamics (including a late‑in‑life revelation about his dad) to building community through drag, Todd shows how creativity, resilience and a bit of small‑town gumption can turn a studio and a stage into a life you can’t believe is yours. Whether you’re an independent beauty and wellness pro, an aspiring drag artist, or just someone trying to juggle multiple passions, this conversation is a masterclass in owning your mistakes, honoring your time and letting your most amplified self lead the way behind the chair and under the spotlight. The VIP Suite is the official podcast of IMAGE Studios, created for independent beauty, health, and wellness professionals who want to grow their businesses and thrive in salon suite life. Hosted by Director of Education, Matthew Landis, each episode shares real success stories, marketing tips, and business strategies from top beauty entrepreneurs and wellness leaders. Episodes are sponsored by GlossGenius , the all-in-one salon software. Learn more at glossgenius.com . Episodes are also sponsored by Elite Beauty Society , providing business and long-term career support to beauty & wellness professionals. Learn more at elitebeautyins.com/IMAGE . Don’t forget to follow, rate, and review the show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen. Connect with us on Instagram @imagestudios360 and visit imagestudios360.com for more information about IMAGE Studios luxury salon suites. New episodes drop every two week. Subscribe to hear how beauty and wellness professionals like you are building powerful, independent careers.

March 27, 2026Episode 4131 min

The Esthetics Café with Leila Macias: Brewing Confidence with Acne-Focused Skincare

In this episode of The VIP Suite , Matthew Landis sits down with Leila Macias , licensed aesthetician, CIDESCO diplomat, and owner of Esthetics Café at IMAGE Studios Poway, CA . Leila specializes in results-driven acne treatments. She shares how a single, unforgettable teenage pimple sparked a lifelong passion for skincare, ingredient deep-dives, and personalized treatment plans. Drawing from her love of coffee, Leila created the Esthetics Café brand to mirror the idea that, just like coffee, there is no “one-size-fits-all” facial—every client’s skin recipe is unique. Leila also dives into her philosophy of simple, approachable education, breaking down complex science into language clients can actually use. She talks about building client confidence (including nervous teen boys), setting clear boundaries and consent around social media and photos, and being intentional about tone, communication, and first impressions, especially with intimate services like waxing. You’ll hear how she plans her Instagram content a month at a time, protects client privacy, busts common skincare myths (including high-number SPF), and channels the emotional weight of client stories into her next big goal: becoming an esthetic nurse. This is a must-listen for any beauty or wellness pro who wants to combine technical skill, heart, and strategy to build a business that truly transforms lives. Catch Leila on Instagram is @esthetics_cafe The VIP Suite is the official podcast of IMAGE Studios, created for independent beauty, health, and wellness professionals who want to grow their businesses and thrive in salon suite life. Hosted by Director of Education, Matthew Landis, each episode shares real success stories, marketing tips, and business strategies from top beauty entrepreneurs and wellness leaders. Episodes are sponsored by GlossGenius , the all-in-one salon software. Learn more at glossgenius.com . Episodes are also sponsored by Elite Beauty Society , providing business and long-term career support to beauty & wellness professionals. Learn more at elitebeautyins.com/IMAGE . Don’t forget to follow, rate, and review the show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen. Connect with us on Instagram @imagestudios360 and visit imagestudios360.com for more information about IMAGE Studios luxury salon suites. New episodes drop every two week. Subscribe to hear how beauty and wellness professionals like you are building powerful, independent careers.

March 13, 2026Episode 4033 min

Fearless at 20: How Jayden Randels Built a Booked-Out Brand in Under a Year

In this episode of The VIP Suite at IMAGE Studios , Director of Education Matthew Landis sits down with Omaha-based hairstylist and content creator Jayden Randels , an IMAGE Studios La Vista Pro who went from hair school graduate to fully booked in under a year. Jayden shares how a last-minute decision to join a friend in hair school turned into a career he loves, why entering Behind the Chair’s One Shot student competition changed everything, and how networking with top artists and mentors accelerated his growth. Matthew and Jayden break down what it really means to be your own boss early in your career, and how suite ownership has given Jayden the freedom and runway to chase big opportunities. They also dive deep into social media strategy, fear, and authenticity . Jayden reveals how he’s been building his brand since age 11, why a single “rage-bait” viral video filmed in a Nebraska cornfield now accounts for roughly 80% of his clientele, and how he uses filming and editing as a tool to improve his craft behind the chair. From overcoming the fear of looking stupid, to using humor and imperfection to build trust, to why he’s over AI-heavy, overly polished content, Jayden offers real, actionable insight for independent pros at any stage. If you’ve ever wondered how to show up online in a way that feels real, sustainable, and profitable—this conversation is your new playbook. You can find Jayden on Instagram: @jaydenrandels The VIP Suite is the official podcast of IMAGE Studios, created for independent beauty, health, and wellness professionals who want to grow their businesses and thrive in salon suite life. Hosted by Director of Education, Matthew Landis, each episode shares real success stories, marketing tips, and business strategies from top beauty entrepreneurs and wellness leaders. Episodes are sponsored by GlossGenius , the all-in-one salon software. Learn more at glossgenius.com . Episodes are also sponsored by Elite Beauty Society , providing business and long-term career support to beauty & wellness professionals. Learn more at elitebeautyins.com/IMAGE . Don’t forget to follow, rate, and review the show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen. Connect with us on Instagram @imagestudios360 and visit imagestudios360.com for more information about IMAGE Studios luxury salon suites. New episodes drop every two week. Subscribe to hear how beauty and wellness professionals like you are building powerful, independent careers.

February 27, 2026Episode 3947 min

Changing Lives Without Burning Out: Elizabeth Faye and the Vitality Project

Matthew sits down with globally recognized educator and founder of Hair Love University and The Vitality Project, Elizabeth Faye . Elizabeth shares her powerful journey from troubled teen and behind-the-chair stylist to trauma-informed life coach and wellness advocate for beauty and wellness pros. They dive into burnout, nervous system health, “trauma dumping” in the salon, why beauty and wellness professionals truly change lives, and simple, free daily practices, like breath work and meditation, that protect your energy and your business. Plus, get a sneak peek into the upcoming IMAGE Pro Academy Masterclass: “Burnout Proof Your Beauty and Wellness Business.” Learn more about The Vitality Project and Hair Love University by following Elizabeth on Instagram at @heyelizabethfaye or check out her website: heyelizabethfay.com. The VIP Suite is the official podcast of IMAGE Studios, created for independent beauty, health, and wellness professionals who want to grow their businesses and thrive in salon suite life. Hosted by Director of Education, Matthew Landis, each episode shares real success stories, marketing tips, and business strategies from top beauty entrepreneurs and wellness leaders. Episodes are sponsored by GlossGenius , the all-in-one salon software. Learn more at glossgenius.com . Episodes are also sponsored by Elite Beauty Society , providing business and long-term career support to beauty & wellness professionals. Learn more at elitebeautyins.com/IMAGE . Don’t forget to follow, rate, and review the show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen. Connect with us on Instagram @imagestudios360 and visit imagestudios360.com for more information about IMAGE Studios luxury salon suites. New episodes drop every two week. Subscribe to hear how beauty and wellness professionals like you are building powerful, independent careers.

November 15, 2025Episode 3820 min

Matthew Landis Introduces IMAGE Pro Academy: The Next Evolution in Salon Suite Education

In this special episode of The VIP Suite, Matthew Landis and Kenzie Bowlby unveil the highly anticipated IMAGE Pro Academy, an all-new learning platform designed to empower independent beauty and wellness professionals. Discover how the Academy will offer shorter, more flexible live classes; on-demand learning modules; exclusive master classes with industry leaders; and a vibrant community forum. Matthew and Kenzie share their passion for helping Pros thrive, discuss the importance of understanding your “why,” and explain how IMAGE Studios continues to evolve to meet the needs of solo entrepreneurs. Whether you’re brand new or a seasoned pro, learn how the IMAGE Pro Academy can help you grow your business, stay inspired, and shape a fulfilling, sustainable career. Don’t miss the details on upcoming courses and how to sign up! The VIP Suite is the official podcast of IMAGE Studios, created for independent beauty, health, and wellness professionals who want to grow their businesses and thrive in salon suite life. Hosted by Director of Education, Matthew Landis, each episode shares real success stories, marketing tips, and business strategies from top beauty entrepreneurs and wellness leaders. Episodes are sponsored by GlossGenius , the all-in-one salon software. Learn more at glossgenius.com . Episodes are also sponsored by Elite Beauty Society , providing business and long-term career support to beauty & wellness professionals. Learn more at elitebeautyins.com/IMAGE . Don’t forget to follow, rate, and review the show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen. Connect with us on Instagram @imagestudios360 and visit imagestudios360.com for more information about IMAGE Studios luxury salon suites. New episodes drop every two week. Subscribe to hear how beauty and wellness professionals like you are building powerful, independent careers.

November 1, 2025Episode 3743 min

Building Her Empire: Dr. Trayce Madre On Success Through Systems And Niching Down

In this episode of The VIP Suite, host Matthew Landis interviews Dr. Trayce Madre, psychologist, entrepreneur, and luxury hair brand founder. Trayce candidly shares her journey from struggle to seven-figure success, revealing how mindset, specialization, and business systems transformed her career. Discover her strategies for identifying your ideal client, perfecting client experience, and building a brand that thrives, even through setbacks. Hear about her latest projects, mentorship, upcoming classes, and her role on the entrepreneurial reality show "The Blox." This conversation is a masterclass in resilience, intentional growth, and redefining success in the beauty industry. The VIP Suite is the official podcast of IMAGE Studios, created for independent beauty, health, and wellness professionals who want to grow their businesses and thrive in salon suite life. Hosted by Director of Education, Matthew Landis, each episode shares real success stories, marketing tips, and business strategies from top beauty entrepreneurs and wellness leaders. Episodes are sponsored by GlossGenius , the all-in-one salon software. Learn more at glossgenius.com . Episodes are also sponsored by Elite Beauty Society , providing business and long-term career support to beauty & wellness professionals. Learn more at elitebeautyins.com/IMAGE . Don’t forget to follow, rate, and review the show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen. Connect with us on Instagram @imagestudios360 and visit imagestudios360.com for more information about IMAGE Studios luxury salon suites. New episodes drop every two week. Subscribe to hear how beauty and wellness professionals like you are building powerful, independent careers.