Meet Randy Madden | Hair Salon owner

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

Hi Randy, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
After COVID and putting everything I had into a salon I deeply believed in, I found myself doing mostly house calls. It was a challenging time, but it also reminded me how much people value personal, one-on-one service—and how much I value creating that kind of connection. As I continued that work, I kept coming back to a long-held dream: having a live-work space where I could fully integrate my creativity, business, and lifestyle.

Now that I’ve made that dream a reality in Casitas Springs, my motivation is clearer than ever. I started my own business to have the freedom to offer deeply personal, high-quality service in an environment that feels like home—not just for me, but for my clients too. It’s about building something sustainable, intimate, and rooted in the community.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Nothing about my path has been easy. I lost my father when I was just 14 months old, and from that point on, I’ve had to scrap my way through life—sometimes learning the hard way. But through every challenge, I’ve developed a deep resilience and a commitment to carving out something meaningful for myself and others.

Professionally, I’ve faced my share of setbacks. COVID hit hard. Salons shut down, and I had to adapt quickly—taking my work directly to clients through house calls. That period taught me not only how to pivot, but how much people appreciate personalized, thoughtful service. It also pushed me to be resourceful and trust my instincts.

What sets me apart is my eye for style and my ability to make people feel seen and cared for. I pour that into everything I do, especially in my new space, Ring of Style—a name inspired by Johnny Cash and his legacy, since my salon suite is just down the road from his former home in Casitas Springs. The space reflects both my aesthetic and my story: bold, soulful, and full of intention.

What I want people to know about me and my brand is that this isn’t just a salon—it’s a reflection of the grit, heart, and creativity that’s gotten me here. I’ve learned that success isn’t always a straight line, and that style—like life—is about expressing who you truly are, no matter what you’ve been through.D

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Honestly, one of the things I love most about being based between Ojai and Ventura is how rich the area is in character and creativity. Whether I’m grabbing a coffee at Beacon or Palermo, flipping through books at Bart’s, or wandering through a vintage treasure trove like Out West, there’s inspiration everywhere. I’ve always had an eye for style, and being surrounded by places that honor individuality, craftsmanship, and soul really feeds that.

Ventura has this gritty, surf-town charm—places like Iron & Resin totally capture that rugged, effortlessly cool energy. Ojai, on the other hand, feels more ethereal and soulful. You catch that “pink moment” at sunset over the Topas, and it stops you in your tracks. I love how those two energies—raw and refined—kind of meet in the middle at my salon, Ring of Style.

Even the name Ring of Style is a nod to the history here—Johnny Cash’s former home is just down the road in Casitas Springs, and that mix of music, rebellion, and timeless style really speaks to what I’m creating. This area isn’t just where I live and work—it’s part of my story and my aesthetic. There’s a rhythm to it, and I’m just adding my verse.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Victor Val Verde is my Hair mentor I dedicate this to him. As well as The Kenton Family who have been a staple in this community and have always believed in me and my dream

Instagram: @RandyMadden

Facebook: RandyTMadden@yahoo.com