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

Hi Natalie, do you have any habits that you feel contribute to your effectiveness?
The habit that I feel has helped me succeed most in my career is: the art of being wholly self at all times. I found that when I tried to split myself up between home self and professional self it didn’t flow. The habit of bringing your values, your interests and even your silliness to wherever you are is the art of being true to yourself. It also helps align your schedule to be in balance with what you desire, because what you value is always going to comes first. I do believe that you attract what you value and it needs to be in every area of your life. So, I try to implement the habit of being true to myself (wholly self) no matter where I am.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I have been in the industry for 10 years now… four at Paul Mitchell Colorado Springs and six at Prodigy salon. It is interesting to look back and see the things that set me up for success.

I never thought I would be a hairdresser… I was never the best dressed in school or super interested in hair and make up. Sure for me it was fun and interesting. But, what really got me, was being able to invest in people. Hair for me… it’s just a front to loving people well. It’s a tangible skill to help people be wholly self. “There are only three people that touch your hair; Your mother, your lover and your hairdresser.” I believe that it is a sacred space for people and such an amazing opportunity for influence. I am beyond thankful to be apart of this industry. It has created opportunities that I never thought were possible. Being able to educate people about their hair is just another form of empowerment. Being able to work behind the chair and work for a company that believes in their stylist, is exactly where I want to be.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
My little secret nuggets for a good time in Colorado Springs would be: The Omelet Parlor for breakfast- that was where my first date with husband was. Get the Black Forest omelet! Then a hike on section 16 up Cheyenne mountain. My favorite lunch spot would be Shugas- get the “lunch tray” just trust me. Or La Baguette -get the butternut squash ravioli! Spend your afternoon shopping at Eves Revolution in old Colorado. Have some afternoon tea at Yellow mountain tea house. Then off to anywhere Slow Downz is serving Texas Creole BBQ

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?
Actually, there are so many that supported me. It’s hard to narrow it down…But I would have to say that there are three people who helped me narrow my scope of practice,  who invested, mentored and encouraged me.

When I was 19 I started working at Paul Mitchel The School Colorado Springs. I worked under Dani Tonge. She taught me everything about administrative work, phone etiquette and public speaking. She was the most gracious teacher in my young years. She had so much patience with me. Working at Paul Mitchel the School inspired me about all the work that hairdressers do and the influence they have on people.
After working at Paul Mitchell for four years, I decided to go to Cosmetology school full time. My husband, Shobie Spear gave me unreal support that helped me graduate with Deans and Honors. If it wasn’t for him I don’t think I would have eaten that entire year. He was my biggest cheerleader. He got our entire college group to get their hair done by me, which in-turn helped me build an amazing clientele. Like I said… unreal support. After school I started at Prodigy Salon where I have been for six years now. The investment that my guests have made in me is above and beyond what I could ask for. I am so honored to have such amazing and committed clientele. The type of people that sit in my chair want to talk about big things and big ideas. I appreciate their life giving conversation and a little peak into their lives.
I now work as Operations Leader at Prodigy salon. I help develop systems, recruit, schedule team meetings and I work behind the chair. Most don’t know that the owner of Prodigy Salon is also the owner of Paul Mitchel the School Colorado Springs; Micah McDougle. So technically, I have worked for the same person for 10 years. Micah, is a boss who sees your potential and will position you in a place where it sets you up for success. He is the type of boss that invests in you personally and professionally. Micah believes in a whole stylist. He is the type of boss that will mentor you, ask you hard questions, values your thoughts, and genuinely listen. And lastly he believes in grace. Let me say that again- He believes in grace. People grow, change and make mistakes. Micah has fostered and environment that allows all of those with grace and growth.
So thankful for the opportunity to answer some questions and brag on the community and people that have helped me grow!

Website: Www.myprodigysalon.com

Instagram: @nataliespear

Facebook: Natalie spear

Image Credits
Cassidy Brooke Photography

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