We had the good fortune of connecting with Nicole Leal and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Nicole, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
Starting my own business came from wanting to shape every aspect of my career. I wanted the values of my brand to really embrace and reflect the person I am. Whether it’s how I think every layer of a team member should be treated or being fully responsible for every decision I wanted to have a say in everything and follow through with action. I just wanted to be me and feel completely safe in that zone.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
I currently work at Powder and Bloom salon as a hairstylist located inside the chic women’s club the AllBright. Located on Melrose Place. I got to where I am because I took a risk in wanting change and to find a healthy work life balance. It definitely was a very easy transition and felt completely right. The pandemic happened only 2 1/2 months into starting a new business and definitely felt scary but then I had two other stylists join the team and felt at ease. The biggest lesson that I’ve learned is even in the roughest times you have to find something that can bring a smile to your face because for the most part most things or situations are only temporary. I want everyone to know that my story is still being shaped and I’m just figuring it out like everyone else.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend was visiting I would first take them on a hike. My favorite one is Temescal Canyon. The view is incredible . Next stop Cafe Habana in Malibu for a Chicken Caesar salad. Thanks to my husband for introducing me to this place. A few areas we would have to explore would be Abbot Kinney, Silver Lake and Downtown to name a few fun areas. We would also need to enjoy a stay at the Elsewhere Topanga and enjoy a hot tub session under the stars in the canyon. Lastly, stop at Sugar Taco for some Plant-based Mexican food.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My success has come from a lot of different mentors along the way. Just to name a few besides my mom and dad here are few: Alexandra Matiz, Claudio Lazo, Carol P., Cha Williams, Michelle C., Ashley E., Eric Allen, Rebel R., Matthew H., Steven S., Tauni D., and my husband Josh S.

Instagram: @mrsnicoleleal

Image Credits
@joshsep/ Josh Separzadeh

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