Neurodiversity in the Beauty Industry: Beauty Isn’t One-Size-Fits-All (Live Panel Discussion)

[309] In the dynamic and ever-evolving hair and beauty world, where passion, creativity, and connection make for a truly rewarding career, neurodiversity often remains an unspoken part of the conversation. This panel discussion, recorded live at International Beauty Show NY 2025 (click here for the abridged video version), recognizes that many neurodivergent beauty professionals face barriers—from misunderstanding to a lack of tailored support— pulls back the curtain on these layered experiences and explores how we can show up with more curiosity and understanding to experiences of neurodiverse staff and clients alike.

Expect candid stories from the salon floor, shared laughs, and some profound "aha!" moments as we address the gap between what's expected and what's possible and engage in a curious inquiry of what new ways of working could look like. Hosted and moderated by Keya Neal (@keyaartistically on Instagram), Founder of Kolour Kulture & Texture VS Race, Color Educator, DEI Consultant.

Panelists:

• Dawn Bradley (@dawnbradley on Instagram), Rock Your Business & The Anxious Creative Podcast

• Kitt Spata (@kittspata on Instagram), Youphoria Studios

• Kate Owens Heins (@kateilovehair on Instagram), CEO & Founder of The Sensory Safe Solution

Produced by Questex and presented by American Salon, International Beauty Show New York is the longest-running professional beauty event in the country. Connecting beauty professionals with the best in the industry, the show brings hundreds of top beauty brands together under one roof for free educational classes by industry legends, workshops, and exclusive show-floor discounts. For more information, visit ibsnewyork.com.

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This episode was edited and mixed by Audio Z: Montreal's cutting-edge post-production studio for creative minds looking to have their vision professionally produced and mixed. Great music makes great moments.