For over 35 years, Keri Davis has been a defining force in the professional beauty industry—known nationally and internationally as the "educators' educator." As Co-Owner and President of Gila Rut Salons, Inc., she built a multi-location brand named one of Salon Today's "Fastest Growing Salons in America" for six consecutive years and winner of the prestigious 2012 NAHA MBA Award.

Trained by icons including Paul Mitchell, Sassoon, and Tigi, Keri's rare ability to blend world-class artistry with business mastery made her one of the industry's most sought-after educators—including her partnership designing the Aveda Business College curriculum. After selling her salon companies in 2023–2024, she now dedicates herself to Keri Davis Consulting, helping salon owners and entrepreneurs build healthy, profitable, behavior-driven businesses through her signature approach: practical, empowering, and immediately actionable guidance rooted in real-world experience.

Nicole Nixon brings 15 years of expertise in the professional beauty industry, specializing in education strategy and content development. She has created comprehensive training manuals, technical curriculum, and educational video content that translate complex techniques into accessible learning experiences. Nicole has developed and led artist teams at all levels, facilitating global educator trainings to ensure cohesive brand messaging across markets. Her work spans trend-focused collection development, creative direction for photo shoots, and collaboration on product development and testing. Known for her ability to tailor programs to meet diverse market needs, Nicole partners closely with domestic and international clients to deliver education that drives real results and elevates industry standards.

Dana Fountain is a multi-concept salon owner, founder of Chicago’s largest bridal beauty agency, and author of Your Beauty Blueprint. Known as a true “collector of people,”she has partnered and built 13 business entities across 9 locations and is partnered with more than 235 independent beauty professionals, creating spaces where diverse business models and personalities thrive.

As a successful beauty platform creator, beauty advocate, industry influencer, and speaker with an eye for artistry and a heart for people. Her relationship-first approach to leadership, networking, and client services has earned her an undeniable influence in Chicago’s growing beauty world— and beyond. Dana believes forming personal relationships and bonds with employees, clients, business partners, and peers while rooting for their prosperity is extremely important for success.

Paula Peralta is a Los Angeles–based celebrity hairstylist, salon owner and salon business & mindset coach with almost two decades of experience in the beauty industry. Renowned for her trend-forward color work and work with high-profile clientele, Paula has built a career at the intersection of artistry, leadership, and innovation.

As a salon owner and industry educator, Paula brings a rare dual perspective—understanding both the creative demands of the chair and the strategic realities of running a profitable business. Her work extends beyond beauty, guiding hairstylists and salon owners to step into true leadership through business strategy, mindset mastery, and identity-level growth.Paula’s coaching philosophy is rooted in sustainability, self-trust, and long-term success. She is known for helping beauty professionals move out of burnout, redefine success on their own terms, and build businesses that support both financial expansion and personal freedom. Through coaching, education, and content, Paula continues to shape the next generation of empowered, self-led beauty entrepreneurs.