Van Council’s story began more than fifty years ago, inspired by a moment in 1975 when the movie Shampoo, starring Warren Beatty as a hairdresser, took the world by storm. A young man in Atlanta, captivated by the beauty and style trends of the film, decided to follow his passion. This led Van to enroll in cosmetology school, where his talent quickly became evident. Over time, he earned accolades such as North America’s Hairdresser of the Year and Aveda Global Hair Master.

In 1984, Van and his brother founded the Van Michael Salon. What began as a single salon has since grown into a beauty empire with over nine locations in Atlanta and a thriving partnership in Japan, with more than 40 licensed outlets. The salon’s success is not only marked by its growth but also by the loyalty of its team. Over 100 employees have been with the company for more than ten years, and some have dedicated more than 30 years to the Van Michael family.

Van Council’s journey is a testament to his dedication to the craft and his ability to inspire those around him. His legacy continues to shape the beauty industry both in North America and globally.

Rachel Liverman's journey in the beauty industry is one built on generations of expertise. As a third-generation aesthetician, Rachel's passion for skincare runs deep. Her grandmother, a true pioneer, founded the Katherine Heinz Institute of Aesthetics, shaping professional skincare as we know it today.

Before launching her own business, Rachel spent over a decade growing in the beauty industry. But just nine months into her entrepreneurial journey, the COVID pandemic forced her to shut down operations. Despite this challenge, Rachel adapted, transforming her business into a trendsetting success.

Her business model centers on providing customized 30-minute facials, delivered by expert aestheticians. It’s a story of resilience, innovation, and crafting a service that fits the fast-paced lives of modern clients.

When Alissa Bayer launched milk + honey as a spa in 2006, she had clear founding principles: to create an exceptional spa experience, commit to hyperclean ingredients, enrich the lives of employees, and give back to the community. The brand has since expanded to seven locations, as well as a line of bath, body, home, and skincare products.

Alissa leads a team of talented milk + honey estheticians, massage therapists, and stylists who help to shape and create the products, providing crucial feedback and real-world experience throughout the development of the product line.

As the proud owner of Face to Face Spa, a premier destination for skincare treatments and beauty services, Jenny Abraham brings a deep passion for aesthetics and a commitment to client satisfaction. She has built a reputation for providing personalized care that leaves clients feeling rejuvenated and confident. Face to Face Spa was founded in 2011, and Jenny later went on to trademark and franchise the concept in 2015 in efforts to expand her business model with like-minded entrepreneurs who share the same passion for skincare.

Jenny began her journey in the beauty industry as a wound care nurse. Utilizing science and evidence-based practice, she witnessed the power of skincare to transform not just one’s appearance, but also one’s self-esteem. She regularly attends industry seminars and training to keep her skills sharp and her services top-notch.

Her commitment to excellence, combined with her genuine care for her clients, makes Face to Face Spa a trusted and beloved name in the beauty community.

Anthony Tjan is the Executive Chairman and Co-Founder of MiniLuxe, a groundbreaking leader in the beauty services industry. With a mission to empower employees and elevate industry standards, Anthony has championed fair wages, team equity, and a purpose-driven approach to business. Through his innovative leadership, MiniLuxe has redefined traditional practices, blending technology with heart to create a culture of transformation and inclusivity.

Jo Kelton, COO of Removery, brings vast healthcare experience and a proven ability to scale businesses. With a background in physical therapy and leading dental consolidations, she has helped grow Removery to over 150 locations globally. Jo’s visionary leadership drives innovation, from launching the Removery Academy to championing social initiatives like free tattoo removal for those in need, making a lasting impact in the tattoo removal industry.

Jayson Rapaport is the co-founder of Birds Barbershop, a renowned barbershop chain based in Austin, Texas. Originally from Texas, Jayson pursued his education on the East Coast and lived in New York before returning to his home state. With a strong entrepreneurial spirit and a commitment to community and employee satisfaction, Jayson has successfully built Birds Barbershop into a beloved local brand and a Texas institution.

Ben Crosbie is a seasoned entrepreneur and the CEO of THE DRIPBaR, the industry leader in innovative IV therapy franchising. Backed by decades of experience in fitness and franchising, Ben took the helm of THE DRIPBaR in 2022 and spearheaded its explosive growth from 5 locations to over 100 in just two years. With a bold vision to expand to 1,500+ locations globally, Ben combines his expertise and passion for wellness to drive innovation and empower franchisees, ensuring THE DRIPBaR stays ahead of the curve. Under his leadership, the company continues to redefine the future of wellness, one drip at a time.

Kyle Jones is the visionary CEO and co-founder of iCRYO, a leading wellness brand revolutionizing health and recovery. With a passion for entrepreneurship and a dedication to improving lives, Kyle has steered iCRYO's rapid transformation from a single idea into a thriving global brand. Under his leadership, iCRYO has become a game-changer in the industry, offering cutting-edge cryotherapy and holistic wellness solutions. Known for his servant leadership style, Kyle empowers his team to innovate while remaining focused on the company's mission to elevate the healthspan of communities worldwide.

Michael and Danielle Petro, founders of MD Esthetics, combine expertise in medicine, engineering, and business to create transformative patient experiences. Michael, a board-certified anesthesiologist, and Daniella, an operations specialist, built their brand with a focus on innovation, natural results, and personalized care. Together, they have scaled MD Esthetics into a trusted medspa brand while staying true to their core values of collaboration and excellence.

Molly Lyons is the founder of Oasis Face Bar, a pioneering skincare franchise redefining the spa experience. A former finance professional turned esthetician, Molly’s passion for accessible, high-quality skincare led her to create an open-concept facial bar in 2018. Her brand’s innovative approach has grown to 17+ locations, and through franchising, she’s helping other women achieve their entrepreneurial dreams.

Lauren Vesler & Manda Mason are the co-founders of The W Nail Bar, a fast-growing, eco-conscious nail salon brand that’s redefining the beauty industry. With a mission to create a clean, safe, and welcoming space for both customers and employees, they built a business rooted in sustainability, quality service, and a deep sense of community. Their journey from a single salon to a thriving brand is a testament to their entrepreneurial spirit, customer-first mindset, and commitment to ethical beauty.

Kyla Dufresne is the founder and CEO of Foxy Box Wax and Laser Bar, a rapidly growing beauty brand specializing in waxing and laser hair removal. Starting her entrepreneurial journey from the dining room of a shared house, Kyla transformed a niche beauty service into a thriving franchise with 18 locations across Canada and plans to expand into the U.S. With a bold, community-driven approach and an unshakable entrepreneurial spirit, she has built a brand that prioritizes empowerment, inclusivity, and exceptional service.

Dave Mortensen is the Co-Founder of Anytime Fitness and Purpose Brands (previously Self Esteem Brands), overseeing 5,500+ locations in 50+ countries. With decades of experience in franchising, leadership, and brand-building, he has been instrumental in revolutionizing the fitness industry with a people-first approach. He co-authored Love Work, a book on fostering purpose-driven organizations. A passionate advocate for culture-driven growth, Dave believes success comes from aligning People, Purpose, Profits, and Play—a philosophy that continues to guide his ventures.