AMANDA McCLANAHAN
Here’s some Q&A from the owner of Cognito Salon
Why did you become a stylist?
I became a stylist when I was 18, right out of high school. When I was 15 I worked at a salon in my home town. I loved how everybody had this amazing vibe that seemed quite contagious. I loved it, so I decided to go to cosmetology school. I love that in some way I can make someone feel good about themselves.
If you were not a stylist, what would be your dream job and why?
I think I would be a plumber. I can snake a toilet any day……
What inspires you?
I love to look at magazines from other countries. Other cultures inspire me.
Describe your perfect day….
Foggy, misty weather. Make coffee and then go work out. Eat some lunch, and then fly to Sweden.
What are some of your favorite Paul Mitchell products?
I really love the new Hot Off The Press. It is a great thermal protector, and is fabulous with static!
If you could have one superpower what would it be and why?
To create more or less hours in the day. I would not want it for everyday, just sometimes. You know when you have those days. I think it would make the world a better place.
MARK HARTMAN
Here’s some Q&A with Mark, Cognito’s resident funnyman…
Why did you decide to become a stylist?
I’ve never wanted to do anything else.
If you weren’t a stylist, what would be your dream job and why?
Well, if you know me I have a love of cars. I would love to be a mechanic.
What inspires you?
Happy people and the constant drive to be a better person.
Describe your perfect day…
Waking up with my baby…working out, then having breakfast. What happens next doesn’t really matter as long as I’m happy and having fun.
What are some of your favorite Paul Mitchell products and why?
Super Skinny Serum because of the way it leaves any hair type silky smooth…Sculpting Foam, an old favorite that never tires.
If you could have one superpower what would it be and why?
To read minds, it would definitely help my job performance, haha.
DANA THRASHER
Here’s some Q&A with Dana, Cognito’s resident baller and lover of “making it rain”
Why did you decide to become a stylist?
From the time I was young I always loved the culture of hairstylists and being in that environment. I thought they were really fun people and I wanted to have a job that allowed me to have fun and party like a baller. I also enjoy being able to make people feel better about themselves.
If you weren’t a stylist, what would be your dream job and why?
I would love to be a professional traveler, because that’s a real job right? Maybe someone like Anthony Bourdain, someone who doesn’t have to cook, just travel the world, hang out and eat amazing food.
What inspires you?
I enjoy traveling and getting to witness different cultures, architecture and people. I also believe that you can be inspired by your everyday surroundings and finding the extra-ordinary moments in simple things.
Describe you perfect day….
Any perfect day for me is spending time with people I love no matter where that is or what we’re doing.
What are some of your favorite Paul Mitchell products and why?
I love Modern Elixirs Color Therapy Shampoo/Conditioner and Tea Tree Lavender Mint Shampoo/Conditioner. They both smell amazing and give hair great hydration and shine. I also love The Cream and Super Sculpt for UV protection and flexible hold. Also, how could we live without Heat Seal?
If you could have one superpower what would it be and why?
I’m going to need more time with this one. There are too many options to pick from. I’ll get back to you soon.