Pulse Magazine just recently had the honor of talking with Jason Boyd, owner of Phase 3 Couture, and student of the well known esthetics organization, Paul Mitchell the School. Discussing everything from his humble beginnings, to tips on breaking into the business, this Tampa stylist lets us know why hair is more than just a phase for him…it’s a lifestyle.

[PM] Give us a quick bio about yourself.

[JB] After 25 years I have found the most incredible family in Paul Mitchell. While attending their school in Tampa, I quickly realized this was everything I could ask for. With Paul Mitchell being the only company still owned by hairdressers, it was easy to feel the warmth of the entire company from top to bottom. From day one, I wanted to absorb as much knowledge and craft as I possibly could. This to me meant following other successful people from Paul Mitchell. Paul Mitchell The School of Tampa, provided me with the opportunities to learn and be a part of several hair shows, working side by side with the teachers, allowing me to hone in on my specific skills.

[PM] Why do you think you decided to become a hairstylist?

[JB] I don’t think I ever made the decision to become a hairstylist…..it chose me. I’ve always been an active artist, but for some strange reason, I could only finish in the presence of others. As an athlete, I have always embraced pressure as it has always put me in a comfortable zone. “A happy place,” if you must, as being a hair artist has the same correlation as being a professional athlete. We get paid on performance and thriving under pressure, all while putting a smile on your face.

[PM] How did you get your start in the industry?

[JB] After 86 credit hours in college, I quickly realized that it was not for me. My cousin owned an advertising company and he asked me to join him for a week in Savannah Georgia. A week turned into over a year and a half of travelling on the road. Covering over 30 states, while advertising for salons, and day spas, shortly after, I realized how much art, creativity, passion and education there was in the world of hair. I then left to go back home and enrolled in The Paul Mitchell School of Tampa in order to start my career.

[PM] What thought process do you go through when styling someone’s hair?

[JB] First I try to find out as much about the person as possible. Then we discuss what their goals and disadvantages are, as well as their limitations. After that is figured out, as an artist I then assess their bone structure, hair texture and hair lines to give them the best couture hair experience designed for them.

[PM] Is there a certain time period or style icon you look to for inspiration?

[JB] I wouldn’t say there is a certain time period, however inspiration for me, can be obtained anytime, or anywhere. Having the privilege of working for Paul Mitchell, enables me to be first in line for all the new trends and techniques, keeping me inspired all the way.

[PM] What and who inspires you?

[JB] The man himself…… Paul Mitchell. Back in 1980, he started off with a $700.00 investment in one of the worst economic times in history. To be able to turn that $700.00 into the most profitable hair company in the world, all while making sure his intent was for the hairstylist first, is truly an inspiration!

[PM] What styling tools do you use most often?

[JB] While working in the salon, I want to make sure that I am using the very best products, all while providing the aura of confidence to my clients on the products. With that being said, Paul Mitchell provides me with every liquid tool imaginable in order to achieve great styles and textures. What’s nice about Paul Mitchell, is that his brand provides you with all the latest up to date supplies and tools. Each liquid supply compliments every category, such as extra body, super skinny, super strong, color protect and moisture. As they are color coordinated, making it easy for our guests to know how to shop.

[PM] What are some good tips for young people trying to break into the industry?

[JB] Find your Passion! For me it was easy with Paul Mitchell. But once you do, find a mentor or two to help guide you in the right direction. In the industry it is very easy for us as stylists, to start making money and leave what we first were passionate about. Having the privilege of working next to somebody that has been there, done that, will help you achieve any goal you set for yourself.

[PM] Are there any types of products you would advise people to stay away from?

[JB] Professional products purchased at drug stores, grocery stores and convenience stores, are the most unpredictable purchases you will buy. Most professional products that you see on these shelves are either counterfeit, or there is no telling how long they have been sitting in some warehouse prior to even being put on the shelves. Not to mention certain names, but lower quality products have been known to leave a silicone film on the hair, taking away from your style.

[PM] What do you recommend for keeping hair looking fresh when it comes to humidity?

[JB] Welcome to The wonderful world of Florida, where humidity attacks everyone! One of the amazing categories that Paul Mitchell offers is “Smoothing”. From your extra curly to your super fine, Paul Mitchell’s smoothing category has the right product for your hair. One of the best defenses against humidity is what we call “Gloss Drops”. This take home product, I recommend to mostly everyone, and it’s a quick fix to achieve frizz free hair all day long.

[PM] Please describe your signature style?

[JB] When hair reaches past the shoulders, it then becomes about the style. When hair is cut above the shoulders, the haircut now relies on the quality of the hair stylist. As an Artist, there is nothing more exciting to me than to give someone a bad ass short geometric couture hair experience!