posted on: 11/15/2023
One of the most wonderful aspects of the professional industry is meeting and sharing with other creative minds. Whether it be live at a show or via the incredible exposure the media devotes to salons, companies, and individuals, it’s an incredible gift to learn from others to help fuel confidence and success in oneself. Roger Molina (@rogermolinahair), Sam Villa ArTeam and Master Stylist at Lunatic Fringe opens up about what makes him tick—and hopefully it will inspire others.
What inspires you?
Dreams…the first concept for viral videos came to me in a dream. I’ve had multiple dreams that had angles or concepts—not all of them are clear on exact details—just overall concepts. And I remember the feeling or message involved usually. It’s awesome. More, please!
What was your biggest “aha” moment as a hairdresser? 
As a young hairdresser transitioning from the Paul Mitchell culture to Redken, it all hit me. It wasn’t just square, round and triangular (PM’s methodology) or scooping, swelling, and straight graduation (Redken’s methodology); it was all the truths of the world combined. Every brand coins their unique theory, but they all bear the same truths. I use every bit of knowledge I’ve gathered from all the teachings. From Vidal, the Mascolos, Paul Mitchell, Redken, Sam Villa…all the way to the unorthodox teachings of my session influences and beyond. It is all truth if it works for you. Don’t stick to just one, you’ll be limited by it—embrace every bit of knowledge and reset your standard over and over.
What’s unique about your teaching style?
You have to hit all the senses—sound, sight, imagination, physical touch. Visual and inspiring, illustrated and alive…speak to the heart, connect and make a difference. I also like to challenge the learner and make them think about where they are technically, spiritually, and professionally. To help them find their gifts, draw them out, and nurture them to impact their lives!
What is your educational focus for the next couple of months?
My focus now is teaching the foundational structures of haircutting in video form—see here. I ‘ve been gathering a solid bank of shapes and cuts, even colors on Instagram. I want people to have a play-by-play in their minds before they begin cutting any shape. A plan backed by flexibility and confidence. If a cut doesn’t really click, try writing down the angles. The top, back, and side view is where I start. Try to map out all over directions, sections, and elevations. And after the cut, go back to your chart and write the updates down. The only way to start seeing shape this way is to practice. See the most recent class on square concave layers here.
Can you share a moment where you knew you made an impact on a student’s learning?
I was able to teach Cut Club, the cutting program for the new stylists at Lunatic Fringe in Park City, UT. Seeing the light come on is my thing. The content on this day was concave versus round layering—a hard-fought lesson, always. After the cuts were done, there was a look of relief on all the faces. I believe this was a huge day of breakthrough for them and many wrote messages thanking me. It’s mostly the feeling that I recall….purposed; their understanding was my validation.
If you were stranded on a deserted island (where beauty and fashion reigned supreme) what would be the one tool you would bring?
My go-to tool would be a Sam Villa Professional Light Ionic Blow Dryer with a diffuser and a natural bristle Sam Villa Artist Series Finishing Brush. Curly hair arsenal only! And if the island had no electricity, then I’d battle on with just the brush.