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

Hi Jo, how has your perspective on work-life balance evolved over time?
When I started self-employment as a hair stylist it was incredibly challenging to pause work mode Jo. I worked everyday and then when I was at home with my partner and kid, there was no balance and it showed. Everyone, including myself was grumpy about how I was ALWAYS busy and on my phone. Most of that was because I had to contact and schedule, post content, edit, and consult all my clients, all while trying to be present with my family. In a Salon you typicallyhave a receptionist who does that for you. I’ve worked every part of a salon and business. The receptionist job is time consuming. The reality that comes with that is, I can’t be present with my family and reply instantly to my clients. Recently I learned to actively remind myself to put the phone down, and save my work stuff for later in the day when Dane (my kid) is napping or sleeping. I want to remember my time with my friends and family and it’s impossible to enjoy that while trying to message 3 people about hair appointments. Now I actively block off days or a hour here and there to focus om work and then the rest of the time I spend with my family and taking care of my body. For me balance has been harder work then doing hair but Balance equals self care and love.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I often tell my clientele that I like being referred to as a Hair Artist, rather than a stylist, hair dresser, hair stylist. This is to convey the message that I will be making you feel like walking art. It’s to also step away from the original vision of cosmetologist which is usually a fashion setter, trendy, salesperson. It makes me so sad to have people sit in my chair and say “what should I get for my face shape/ I wish I could do _____ with my hair but not until I lose weight”. Who pushed and sold these ideas? Magazines, malls, and salons did. I wanted to be different I found this idea and culture I love through meeting other like minded artists. Tattoo artists, lash artists, estheticians, nail artists, potters, and painters who all have a successful business path tend to have a passion for the trade and for art. My biggest takeaway from all of these artists is that Art has NO rules. When anyone sits in my chair, the only opinion that matters is theirs. We will collaborate and make YOU feel like a masterpiece.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I’d take them to some of my favorite local shops! Rocket a go go, Terror Trader, and of course Shirts n Things. Then maybe stop by Meno’s Place for some of the best cheese popusa’s and Birria tacos. Meno’s also does Dance shows and Drag Shows so it is always a fun experience! If there was time, Heber is one of my favorite small towns to stop in for their hiking trails. Great for beginners!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I owe my independent work to my treasured friend of 15 years Bill Fleckenstien (known as @modified.aesthetics on Instagram). She had started her own journey as a independent licensed esthetician and licensed lash tech, but wanted a roommate in her suite. Once I had moved back to Arizona and she offered the space, I couldn’t say know. It lined up exactly how I needed it (of course I didn’t know that at the time). Bill also introduced me to the alternative and spooky community in Mesa and Tempe. My client’s have become treasured friends and family and it is the most comfortable work environment I have ever been in. Thank you Bill🖤

Website: https://linktr.ee/JosHauntedHair

Instagram: @jos.haunted.hair

Other: Tik tok: @joshauntedhair

Image Credits
https://www.tcohphotos.com/ For my portrait photo.

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