Meet and Greet!
Founded in 1995, Inspiring Champions is comprised of a team of dedicated leaders in the Salon and Day Spa Industry. We are committed to providing you with innovative and creative solutions to growing your business.
- Lauren Gartland
- Brian Braet
- Billie Castellaw
- Kathleen Collins
- Michele Dixon
Name: Lauren Gartland
Title: President
Serving the Industry Since: 1983
History of Service:
- Founder/President of Inspiring Champions
- Keynote Speaker
- Contributing Author, Wake Up & Live the Life you Love, In Beauty!
Bio:
"As long as I can remember my passion has been helping people reach their full potential. My life is committed to teach, inspire and support all people to live their dreams. I want to be known as a difference maker! I want my legacy to live on long after I am gone and to know that one life has breathed easier because I have lived."
Name: Brian Braet
Title: Sales Manager
Serving the Industry Since: 2004
Degrees, Certifications & Awards:
- Degree in Political Science
Bio:
Brian has 6 years of experience representing educators and consultants in the beauty industry. He has worked with several product distributors to develop business programs that are taught to salon and spa professionals all throughout the United States.
"I have learned that this industry is filled with passionate, hard working people that can often benefit from learning a few fundamental business techniques that can make their dreams grow into reality."
Name: Billie Castellaw
Title: Client Relations Manager
Serving the Industry Since: 1998
Degrees, Certifications & Awards:
- Esthetician License
- Training in Permanent Make Up Artistry
- Landmark Education - Forum, Self Leadership & Advanced Course
History of Service:
- Make Up Artist since 2002
- Licensed Esthetician since 2002
Bio:
"I love this industry, I would be lost if I could not be a part of it. The beauty industry is the Mecca or heartbeat of what we look like from the clothes we wear to the types of creams we put on our faces. Being a part of something you love and have a passion for keeps your soul young as you are at peace and harmony doing what you love not only for yourself but for others too. From beauty on the inside and out you can transform the world."
Name: Kathleen Collins
Title: Project Coordinator
Serving the Industry Since: 2000
Degrees, Certifications & Awards:
- BA in Business Management
- Cosmetology License
- Completed 'Train the Trainer' Course
- Landmark Education - Forum & Advanced Course
History of Service:
- Licensed Cosmetologist since 2000
Bio:
"I experienced the major dysfunctions first hand which really had me want to make a difference for the future Salon & Spa professionals. I really love helping people and empower them to have the business of their dreams. In this industry a lot of salon and spa owners/technicians are so great technically, but what they lack is business knowledge, so I am lit up when I can give that to them and it completes the circle of success for them, allowing them to perform better because they have all of the necessary systems and structures in their business that allow for the business to run more efficiently."
Name: Michele Dixon
Title: Executive Assistant to President
Serving the Industry Since: 2011
Bio:
"Becoming part of an amazing team with shared passions and goals to serve the Salon and Spa Industry is the best. Since joining Inspiring Champions in March of 2010, I have become very excited about the dynamic change that can be made through the coaching and educational products IC offers to the beauty industry. Our success is measured by the success of our clients."
- Debra Hanson
- Angela Dalphonse
- Dorothy Scott
- Gary Ahlquist
- Heather Goodwin
- Jennifer Foo
- Jill Ruone
- Jolene Casey
- Julie Petersen
- Jynelle Waymire
- Lance Courtney
- Lauren Gartland
- Oscar Valencia
- Randi Rose
Name: Debra Hanson
Title: Business Coach
Serving the Industry Since: 1976
Degrees, Certifications & Awards:
- Certified Co-Active Professional Coach
- Inspiring Champions Certified Coach
- Inspiring Champions Coaches Trainer
History of Service:
- Service Provider for 25 years
- Salon Owner for 23 years
- Life & Business Coach for 10 years
Bio:
"I am driven by the countless amount of Salon & Spa Owners that have not been taught what they need to know for this industry. I have a passion for developing leaders, and finding the natural leader within...I hold you accountable to your vision and goals and walk with you as your partner every step of the way to support you in realizing that vision."
Name: Angela Dalphonse
Title: Business Coach
Serving the Industry Since: 1993
History of Service:
- Color educator
- Hairstylist/owner 17 years
- Inspiring Champions Business Coach
Bio:
As a business owner for 17 years, I can relate to the highs and lows of owning a salon. I have lived it. By implementing the Inspiring Champions systems, I am able to make sound decisions based on facts and not on emotions. My business saavy and strength with numbers has helped my salon become 3x more profitable than most salons in the industry. I am passionate about bringing your vision to reality. I believe in dreaming big and never settling for less than what you want. I am driven by helping other salon owners and hairstylists succeed. Together anything is possible.
Name: Dorothy Scott
Title: Business Coach
Serving the Industry Since: 1973
Degrees, Certifications & Awards:
- Inspiring Champions Certified Coach
- Coach Training Alliance Certified Coach
History of Service:
- Hair Designer & Colorist for 37 years
- Salon Owner, 10 years
Bio:
"I’m passionate that Salon and Spa Owners experience profitability, peace of mind and success within their business by supporting them with business knowledge. I truly understand where my clients are in their business and teach them to grow out of their self-induced limiting boundaries. I have a strong reserve of strength, dedication and accountability to myself."
Name: Gary Ahlquist
Title: Business Coach
Serving the Industry Since: 1982
Degrees, Certifications & Awards:
- Bachelor of Science, Chemistry
- Peak Potentials, Train the Trainer Certificate
- Keynote Speaker
- Inspiring Champions Certified Coach
History of Service:
- Developed 3 Product Companies
- Managed 15 Salons and Spas
- Worked with 150 Distributors
- Worked with over 8,000 Salons and Spas
Bio:
"I pride myself in making Cash Flow Consulting with Salon and Spa Owners easy to understand with step-by-step systems. Helping hard working Owners receive the financial reward that is due them is what drives me to work for this wonderful industry."
Name: Heather Goodwin
Title: Business Coach
Serving the Industry Since: 1995
Degrees, Certifications & Awards:
- 1st Runner up Nail Technician of the Year, 2007
- Certified Master Pedicurist
- Inspiring Champions Certified Trainer
History of Service:
- Nail Technician for 15 years
- Salon Owner for 2 years
- Led 'Coaching Chronicals' - Nails Magazine
Bio:
"I love being able to help facilitate a future for someone’s career goals. By living day to day in the salon, as well as behind the chair, I am able to understand and connect with my clients on a more personal level."
Name: Jennifer Foo
Title: Business Coach
Serving the Industry Since: 1991
Degrees, Certifications & Awards:
- Red Seal Journeyman Hairstylist
- Certified Reflexologist & Nail Technician
- Multiple “certificate of completion” from leaders in the Industry in Hair color, design, leadership & business management.
History of Service:
- Service provider since 1991
- Salon Owner since 2004
Bio:
I love this industry and the amazing people that help shape and create a beautiful experience for others. I know that it doesn’t come without its fair share of challenges and balancing acts, which is why it is my pleasure to work with you on an exciting journey into your future. It’s incredible to see people’s dreams and visions come into light when they realize the power and potential for success is within them, all they needed was support and guidance, which is exactly what I’m here for. Together we’ll help you get from where you are now to where you want to be, one step at a time.
Name: Jill Ruone
Title: Business Coach
Serving the Industry Since: 1982
Degrees, Certifications & Awards:
- Goodman Group Award, 2000
- Regis Franchise - Manager of the Year Award, 2002
- Regis Franchise - Franchise of the Year Award, 2004
- Inspiring Champions Certified Coach, 2008
- Inspiring Champions Certified Trainer
- Regis Franchise - Coach and Mentor of the Year Award, 2009
History of Service:
- Service Provider for 28 years
- Platform Artist for 3 years
- Manager/Owner for 27 years
- District Manager for 7 years
Bio:
"As the Owner of own Salon and Spa and managing my team on a daily basis, I know what it’s like to be defeated, and I know what it’s like to have great success. Being able to help an owner move forward and watch the growth they experience is an awesome thing.”
Name: Jolene Casey
Title: Business Coach, Salon Owner, Technician
Serving the Industry Since: 1979
Degrees, Certifications & Awards:
- Making a Difference Award & Businesses Caring for our Community Award
- 1st Runner–up, Northwest Stylist Cover Contest
- Voted # 1 Salon Renton 2008 & 2009
- Voted # 1 Barbershop Renton 2010
- Inspiring Champions Certified Coach
History of Service:
- Service Provider for 20+ years
- Developed an In Salon Coaching Program, Apprentice Development Plan for her salon
- Runs a thriving salon from 23-27 hours per week!
Bio:
"I know how it feels to have your business control your life, I LOVE helping people see that they have the power within, to control their business, and have the life they've always dreamed of.. When you find balance, everything else falls into place. It fills my heart with joy knowing I can make a difference in someone's life, by creating "CHAMPION" business owners I am proud to call my peers."
Name: Julie Petersen
Title: Business Coach
Serving the Industry Since: 2005
Degrees, Certifications & Awards:
- Inspiring Champions Certified Coach
History of Service:
- Professional Hair Designer for 5 years
- Profitable Owner of Prestige Salon for 5 years
- Educator for product line UNITE for 2 years
Bio:
"Two and a half years ago, I was still excited about my salon, but was starting to resent it. That's when I was introduced to Inspiring Champions. I didn't know my numbers, but knew that I could learn to know them. Having gone through Champ Camp, Cash Flow Camp, Advanced Leadership Program and Top Gun Front Desk, I am proof that utilizing the Inspiring Champions' systems, while having a coach, can take any business owner to any level if they are willing to do the work and trust the process."
Name: Jynelle Waymire
Title: Business Coach
Serving the Industry Since: 1991
Degrees, Certifications & Awards:
- Inspiring Champions Coach
- Multiple awards for National Hair Competitions
History of Service:
- Nail Specialist, 20 years
- Salon Owner, 6 1/2 years
Bio:
"I feel I have something to offer to our coaching clients because I have walked in their shoes and I also have an education background. Learning the right way to run a salon and spa has been very challenging and rewarding and I hope to be able to pass my knowledge that I have gained through Inspiring Champions onto other business owners so that they may also live a balanced and prosperous life.
Inspiring Champions and all of their amazing systems, when used properly, can make such a huge difference in someone's business - technician or owner. I love the idea of being part of that bigger picture - changing the industry, one person at a time"
Name: Lance Courtney
Title: Business Coach
Serving the Industry Since: 1992
Degrees, Certifications & Awards:
- Inspiring Champions Certified Coach
- Inspiring Champions Certified Trainer
- Certified Dream Coach & Group Leader
- Keynote Speaker
- Member of National Speaker’s Association
Bio:
"Most technicians are taught how to pin, twist, cut, color, and transform the physical appearance and condition of others, while lacking the tools, skills and systems to do the same for their own lives and businesses. My passion is giving this industry the inspiration to reach higher, while providing the necessary tools to reach further and create positive transformation."
Name: Lauren Gartland
Title: Business Coach, President
Serving the Industry Since: 1983
History of Service:
- Founder/President of Inspiring Champions
- Keynote Speaker
- Published Author, Wake Up & Live the Life you Love, In Beauty!
Bio:
"As long as I can remember my passion has been helping people reach their full potential. My life is committed to teach, inspire and support all people to live their dreams. I want to be known as a difference maker! I want my legacy to live on long after I am gone and to know that one life has breathed easier because I have lived."
Name: Oscar Valencia
Title: Business Coach
Serving the Industry Since: 1987
Degrees, Certifications & Awards:
- Inspiring Champions Certified Coach
- Inspiring Champions Certified Trainer
- Multiple awards for National Hair Competitions
History of Service:
- Hairstylist, 23 years
- Salon Manager, 2 years
Bio:
"My coaching style is one of understanding, compassion and honesty. If I can get my clients to see their potential and dreams, I know that together we can bring those dreams to fruition."
Name: Randi Rose
Title: Business Coach
Serving the Industry Since: 1999
Degrees, Certifications & Awards:
- Certified Life Coach
- Former Seminar Leader, Landmark Education
- President of the Board of Directors, San Diego Earth Works
Bio:
"I am passionate about serving people. I have touched a lot of industries, and this industry has some of the kindest, truest, sweetest, most authentic and appreciative people I have ever encountered. I love knowing that my job allows me to make a difference in someone’s life. In the quality of their life and that of their family."
Name: Rusty Phillips
Title: Business Coach, Salon Owner, Educator, Hair Colorist, and Hair Designer
Serving the Industry Since: 1978
Degrees, Certifications & Awards:
- Kansas City’s Best Hair Designer – 2009
- Salon Today Top 200 Salon – 2009, 2010
- Elle Magazine, 100 Best Salons in America – 2010, 2011, 2012
- NAHA Contemporary Classics Finalist - 2012
- Landmark Education Curriculum for Living
- Landmark Education Introduction Leader Program
- Inspiring Champions Certified Coach
History of Service:
- Hair Designer and Colorist since 1978
- Salon owner for 9 years in San Diego, CA
- Salon owner since in Kansas City, MO since 2006
- TIGI Color Educator since 2007
Bio:
Rusty Phillips has developed a uniquely organic philosophy about the Beauty Industry. He focuses personal warmth and caring, observation and the ability to listen, combined with artistic sensitivity and expertise. For over 35 years, Phillips has been a bright catalyst in the lives of his clients, employees, professional associates, friends and family. His ongoing commitment to the Hairdressing Community has led to numerous professional accolades and the foundation of a thriving and profitable Salon. Through the Coaches Training with Inspiring Champions, Rusty discovered a clear purpose in life—to encourage and empower individuals in the beauty industry to be abundantly successful, prosperous, and to lead lives they love.
- Lauren Gartland
- Gary Ahlquist
- Heather Goodwin
- Jill Roune
- Lance Courtney
- Oscar Valencia
- Paul Wilkinson
- Rachaun Julian
Name: Lauren Gartland
Title: Trainer, President
Serving the Industry Since: 1983
History of Service:
- Founder/President of Inspiring Champions
- Keynote Speaker
- Published Author, Wake Up & Live the Life you Love, In Beauty!
Bio:
"As long as I can remember my passion has been helping people reach their full potential. My life is committed to teach, inspire and support all people to live their dreams. I want to be known as a difference maker! I want my legacy to live on long after I am gone and to know that one life has breathed easier because I have lived."
Name: Gary Ahlquist
Title: Coach
Serving the Industry Since: 1982
Degrees, Certifications & Awards:
- Bachelor of Science, Chemistry
- Peak Potentials, Train the Trainer Certificate
- Keynote Speaker
- Inspiring Champions Certified Coach
- Inspiring Champions Certified Trainer
History of Service:
- Developed 3 Product Companies
- Managed 15 Salons and Spas
- Worked with 150 Distributors
- Worked with over 8,000 Salons and Spas
Bio:
"I pride myself in making Cash Flow Consulting with Salon and Spa Owners easy to understand with step-by-step systems. Helping hard working Owners receive the financial reward that is due them is what drives me to work for this wonderful industry."
Name: Heather Goodwin
Title: Trainer
Serving the Industry Since: 1995
Degrees, Certifications & Awards:
- 1st Runner up Nail Technician of the Year, 2007
- Certified Master Pedicurist
- Inspiring Champions Certified Trainer
History of Service:
- Nail Technician for 15 years
- Salon Owner for 2 years
Bio:
"I love being able to help facilitate a future for someone’s career goals. By living day to day in the salon, as well as behind the chair, I am able to understand and connect with my clients on a more personal level."
Name: Jill Ruone
Title: Trainer
Serving the Industry Since: 1982
Degrees, Certifications & Awards:
- Goodman Group Award, 2000
- Regis Franchise - Manager of the Year Award, 2002
- Regis Franchise - Franchise of the Year Award, 2004
- Inspiring Champions Certified Coach, 2008
- Regis Franchise - Coach and Mentor of the Year Award, 2009
History of Service:
- Service Provider for 28 years
- Platform Artist for 3 years
- Manager/Owner for 27 years
- District Manager for 7 years
Bio:
"As the Owner of my Salon and Spa and managing my team on a daily basis, I know what it’s like to be defeated, and I know what it’s like to have great success. Being able to help an owner move forward and watch the growth they experience is an awesome thing.”
Name: Lance Courtney
Title: Trainer
Serving the Industry Since: 1992
Degrees, Certifications & Awards:
- Inspiring Champions Certified Coach
- Inspiring Champions Certified Trainer
- Certified Dream Coach & Group Leader
- Keynote Speaker
- Member of National Speaker’s Association
Bio:
"Most technicians are taught how to pin, twist, cut, color, and transform the physical appearance and condition of others, while lacking the tools, skills and systems to do the same for their own lives and businesses. My passion is giving this industry the inspiration to reach higher, while providing the necessary tools to reach further and create positive transformation."
Name: Oscar Valencia
Title: Trainer
Serving the Industry Since: 1987
Degrees, Certifications & Awards:
- Inspiring Champions Certified Coach
- Multiple awards for National Hair Competitions
History of Service:
- Hairstylist, 23 years
- Salon Manager, 2 years
Bio:
"My coaching style is one of understanding, compassion and honesty. If I can get my clients to see their potential and dreams, I know that together we can bring those dreams into fruition."
Name: Paul Wilkinson
Title: Trainer
Serving the Industry Since: 2000
Degrees, Certifications & Awards:
- Trainer with Inspiring Champions
History of Service:
- Manager of Spawho.com Division
Bio:
"I like to use my spontaneous humor & genuine kindness to make sure that every training session is totally unique and anything but boring. It’s rewarding to see a person double or even triple their income after learning what I’ve taught them in just a single weekend, I love knowing that I’ve made a difference in their lives."
Name: Rachaun Julian
Title: Trainer
Serving the Industry Since: 2000
Bio:
"My passion is to inspire and empower individuals to believe in themselves and to never give up on their dreams. My unwavering commitment is to support you in soaring to your greatest heights."

