Podcast Summary: “What It Takes To Be a Successful Beauty Industry Professional Ft. Lash Cowboy”

Podcast Information:

• Title: Beauty with a Twist
• Host: Dede
• Guest: Abel De Leon (Lash Cowboy)
• Episode Title: What It Takes To Be a Successful Beauty Industry Professional Ft. Lash Cowboy
• Release Date: October 18, 2024

1. Introduction

In this episode of Beauty with a Twist, host Dede welcomes a special guest, Abel De Leon, famously known as Lash Cowboy. The episode delves into Abel's journey in the beauty industry, his entrepreneurial spirit, the challenges he faced, and the strategies he employed to achieve success.

Notable Quote:

• Abel (00:07): “I flew into California just to meet this special person you guys fucking flew.”

2. Abel's Background and Entry into the Beauty Industry

Abel shares his initial aspirations of becoming a police officer or MMA fighter, highlighting the demands of his previous pursuits that conflicted with his family commitments. His transition into the beauty industry was precipitated by the COVID-19 pandemic when he was laid off from his healthcare job. Encouraged by his wife's success in the beauty business, Abel decided to join her, marking the beginning of his five-year journey in the field.

Notable Quotes:

• Abel (01:19): “I always wanted to either be a police officer or MMA fighter... but that was just too busy.”
• Abel (01:44): “She told me, why don’t you just join the beauty industry with me? And I was like, yeah.”

3. Learning and Mastering Lash Extensions

Abel recounts how his wife initially started the beauty business, expanding from eyebrows to makeup and then to extensions. Abel learned the craft primarily through hands-on experience with his wife, supplemented by instructional YouTube videos. His dedication is evident as he describes sitting beside his wife during lash appointments to absorb every detail.

Notable Quotes:

• Abel (02:45): “If this guy can help out his wife, why can't I?”
• Dede (04:37): “And do her lashes? Like, how did you learn?”
• Abel (04:11): “Yeah, actually, she taught me... I would sit there and watch her lash.”

4. Building a Clientele and Overcoming Challenges

Abel discusses the early challenges he faced, particularly with volume lashes, which initially frustrated him due to his perfectionist tendencies. After a period of struggle and a temporary return to classic lashes, a simple tweak suggested by his wife transformed his technique, enabling him to efficiently master volume lashes. This breakthrough was pivotal in building his clientele.

Notable Quotes:

• Abel (05:20): “I was just sitting there. It took a good four months because I was so frustrated.”
• Abel (07:07): “Don't worry about speed... push it.”

5. Branding and Differentiation in the Beauty Industry

A significant portion of the conversation focuses on the importance of personal branding. Abel emphasizes his unique Western cowboy aesthetic, which sets him apart in the predominantly female beauty industry. This distinctive branding strategy not only attracts attention but also fosters a memorable identity that resonates with clients.

Notable Quotes:

• Abel (13:00): “When you see someone like me, you think, this is a cowboy lash artist. It’s crazy.”
• Abel (13:28): “I wear Western wear because that's part of my culture and family heritage.”

6. Pricing Strategies and Income Potential

Abel provides an in-depth look at pricing strategies, highlighting how appropriate pricing is crucial to achieving a substantial income. By positioning his services at a premium, Abel and his wife collectively earn over $100K annually. He advises new professionals to price their services based on quality and target clientele, suggesting that higher pricing attracts clients willing to pay for excellence, ultimately leading to greater earnings.

Notable Quotes:

• Abel (31:36): “I make over 100k a year between me and my wife.”
• Abel (34:10): “I would say classics... you can make anywhere from $150 to $200 just for classics.”
• Dede (35:06): “Can you make that a short clip? They’re gonna be like a hundred and fifty to two hundred dollars.”

7. Managing Physical Strain and Equipment Choices

The discussion shifts to the physical demands of being a lash artist. Abel underscores the importance of quality equipment, such as comfortable recliners, to prevent physical strain. He shares his experiences with different adhesives, opting for clear adhesive over black due to its reduced irritation and better working conditions.

Notable Quotes:

• Abel (41:16): “I use clear adhesive now because it works a lot better for me.”
• Dede (42:05): “I hate those flatbeds. They need to get rid of them.”
• Abel (43:32): “If you're using the right equipment, you won't hurt yourself.”

8. Competition and Industry Challenges

Abel addresses the rise of DIY lash clusters and low-quality extensions proliferated through platforms like TikTok. He warns about the potential damage caused by improper application and inferior products, advocating for professional services to ensure lash health and quality. Abel also touches on the ethical considerations of content sharing, urging professionals to protect their work through watermarks and negotiations with brands.

Notable Quotes:

• Abel (54:33): “Lashes from TikTok can damage your natural lashes.”
• Abel (56:59): “It's cheaper but in the long run, it's going to damage your lashes.”

9. Final Advice and Conclusion

In wrapping up, Abel emphasizes the importance of consistency, patience, and continuous learning for those aspiring to succeed in the beauty industry. He advises newcomers to focus on mastering their craft, building a strong personal brand, and maintaining high standards to attract and retain quality clients. Abel’s closing quote encapsulates his philosophy:

Notable Quote:

• Abel (60:55): “Always stick to the goal. If the plan doesn't work, change the plan, but never the goal.”

Host Dede echoes Abel's sentiments, highlighting the value of perseverance and strategic investment over immediate gratification.

Closing Remarks:

• Dede (53:05): “Patience. And just consistency, consistency, and just know that it will come to you.”
• Abel (60:55): “I always keep that mindset just... always stick to the goal.”

Key Takeaways:

• Personal Branding: Differentiates professionals in a saturated market.
• Pricing Strategies: Proper pricing attracts the right clientele and ensures financial success.
• Quality Over Quantity: Investing in quality products and equipment prevents physical strain and ensures client satisfaction.
• Consistency and Patience: Essential for building a loyal client base and achieving long-term success.
• Protecting Work: Use watermarks and negotiate appropriately to safeguard content and professional integrity.

Conclusion

Abel De Leon’s journey as Lash Cowboy serves as an inspiring blueprint for aspiring beauty industry professionals. His emphasis on personal branding, strategic pricing, and unwavering commitment underscores the multifaceted approach required to thrive in the competitive beauty landscape. This episode not only offers practical advice but also inspires listeners to stay true to their goals and continuously strive for excellence.