186. Exploring Beauty Industry Opportunities in Johnson City with Local Experts

Johnson City Living

About the Guests:

Terry Kazmier and Chenoa Pruitt are the dynamic duo behind Jenny Lea Academy and Sugar Mama Waxing and Spa in Johnson City, Tennessee. Terry Kazmier, originally from Washington, DC, is a Milligan College graduate with a degree in accounting and a former pharmaceutical rep. She transitioned into the beauty industry with a focus on spas. Chenoa Pruitt, a licensed esthetician and a graduate of Jenny Lea, has a strong management background and a passion for the skincare aspect of the beauty industry. Together, they are devoted to expanding educational opportunities in aesthetics and building successful beauty businesses.

Episode Summary:

In this riveting episode, Colin Johnson sits down with Terry Kazmier and Chenoa Pruitt from Jenny Lea Academy and Sugar Mama Waxing and Spa. The conversation kicks off with a warm introduction to the lovely guests who bring their unique journeys and professional backgrounds to light. Terry and Chenoa share their affection for Johnson City and delve into their respective paths that led them to take on leadership roles in the beauty and wellness industry.

The episode explores the core of Jenny Lea Academy's educational ethos and the expansive services offered at Sugar Mama Waxing and Spa. Through engaging narratives, Terry and Chenoa highlight the importance of accessibility, innovative business models, and comprehensive training programs tailored to the beauty industry. They fervently discuss the lucrative opportunities available for graduates and underscore the misconception surrounding beauty trades versus traditional college degrees.

Key Takeaways:

• Accessibility & Community: Terry emphasizes the ease of access and community-driven support in Johnson City, making it an ideal location for business growth and personal fulfillment.
• Holistic Education: Jenny Lea Academy provides extensive training programs in cosmetology, aesthetics, barbering, and nail technology, ensuring students receive hands-on experience and are job-ready upon graduation.
• Economic Viability: The beauty industry offers significant financial rewards, with graduates often starting out earning between $40,000 to $60,000 annually, emphasizing the strong return on investment.
• Growth & Expansion: Both Terry and Chenoa express aspirations of expanding Jenny Lea Academy to new locations, aiming to increase educational opportunities and support more students in the trade.
• Mentorship & Influence: The conversation sheds light on the profound impact of mentors and community support in achieving entrepreneurial success.

Notable Quotes:

1. "I love the accessibility of Johnson City. Someone knows somebody and can do an introduction. It's like one degree of separation.” - Terry Kazmier
2. "The road to college is not for everyone. You can come out with a 4-year degree and not make that kind of money at all." - Terry Kazmier
3. "I was always managing people, working with people. I knew that was my thing, and it’s why I wanted to own my own business.” - Chenoa Pruitt
4. "For every esthetician we employ at Sugar Mama, it affects our bottom line." - Terry Kazmier
5. "We are not putting out a hobby job; this is a career where you can buy houses, buy cars, and affect the economy." - Terry Kazmier

Resources:

• Sugar Mama Waxing and Spa
• Jenny Lea Academy (contact via phone for services and tours)

For full insights into the compelling journey of Terry Kazmier and Chenoa Pruitt, and to grasp the scope of opportunities within the beauty education sector, tune into this enlightening episode. Stay updated with future episodes that continue to showcase inspiring stories and practical knowledge to fuel your entrepreneurial spirit.