Meet Amanda Matsuda

Today we’re excited to be connecting with Amanda Matsuda again. If you haven’t already, we suggest you check out our prior conversation with them here.

Amanda , we are so thrilled to be connecting again and can’t wait to hear about all the amazing things you have been up to. Before we jump into all of that, some of our readers might have missed our prior interview, so can you take a moment to reintroduce yourself?
Hello everyone, my name is Amanda Matsuda, and I’m a 30-year-old hairstylist based in Fort Collins, Colorado. I’ve been behind the chair for 12 years and am the proud owner of Blondish Beauty Bar, which I’ve successfully run for the past six years.

Throughout my career, I’ve been a passionate blonde enthusiast, specializing in creating bold, transformative blonding results and super bright, all-over blondes. About four years ago, I added hair extensions to my services, and it’s been a game-changer—not just for my business but for the instant confidence it gives my clients.

What truly sets me apart is my commitment to creating a cozy, safe space for my clients where they feel heard, understood, and cared for. Education is at the heart of everything I do. I ensure my clients leave the chair feeling confident about how to care for their hair, which products to use, and when to return for their next appointment.

When I started my booth rental journey, I had just five clients, most of whom were family. Today, through hard work, creativity, and resilience, I’ve grown my business to over 300 clients.

Looking ahead, my goal is to expand into education for other stylists. I want to help them feel empowered and successful in their businesses while teaching them how to incorporate education into their own client experiences.

Awesome, so we reached out because we wanted to hear all about what you have been up to since we last connected.
Since my last interview, a lot has changed! At the time, I was working out of a small 300-square-foot suite with two hairstylists. Since then, I’ve expanded into a larger, over 1,000-square-foot salon with four booth-renting stylists. This expansion has been such a rewarding journey, filled with the joys and challenges of being a salon owner. I’ve had to say goodbye to some incredible stylists who became like family, while also welcoming new faces into our salon.

This new space has allowed me to service more clients than I ever could in my suite, while also creating a better balance that lets me spend more quality time with my two daughters. Right now, I feel very content with where my business is, though I’m always open to welcoming new clients.

Looking ahead, I’m excited to pursue a new chapter in my career: education. I’m eager to start teaching classes and sharing what I’ve learned to help other stylists grow and feel confident in their own journeys. This goal is keeping me inspired and ready for all the possibilities the next year will bring!

We have now arrived at one of our favorite parts of the interview – the lightning round. We’ll ask you a few quick questions to give us all some fun insights about you.

Favorite Movie: 6 Days 7 Nights

Favorite Book: Atomic Habits

Favorite TV Show: Smallville

Favorite Band or Artist: Ian Munsick

Sweet or Savory: Sweet

Mountains or Beach: Both!

Favorite Sport (to watch): Baseball

Favorite Sport (to play): Dance

Did you play sports growing up (if so which ones): Dancer or 6 years, volleyball and softball

As a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up: A dancer or a hairstylist

French Fries or Onion Rings: French Fries

Chuck Rhodes or Bobby Axelrod: Big Fat Liar Chuck Rhodes

Favorite Cartoon growing up: Powerpuff Girls

Favorite Childhood movie: Flubber

Favorite Breakfast Food: All breakfast food

When you look back on your life, what are three things you expect to be proud of?
When I look back on my life, there are three things I expect to be most proud of:
1. Embracing Mistakes as Lessons
I’ve learned that every mistake is an opportunity to grow. Understanding this has shaped who I am and allowed me to turn challenges into valuable lessons that have strengthened both my personal and professional life.
2. Prioritizing What Matters Most
Time is truly a thief, and I’ve made it a priority to slow down and spend meaningful time with my loved ones, as well as pursue the things I genuinely enjoy. Those moments are what truly make life fulfilling.
3. Living with Intent
I’ve committed to only saying yes to opportunities that feel like a resounding “hell yes.” This mindset has guided me toward experiences that align with my values and goals, leading to some of the most amazing and rewarding opportunities in my life.

These three principles have not only shaped my journey but are also the foundation of the life I strive to live.

Instagram: Iam_amandamatsuda

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