Tune In: When Opposites Align
We’ve all witnessed partnerships that implode faster than a DIY haircut…Especially when the partners are polar opposites AND close friends. Buckle up for ‘When Opposites Align,’ the podcast that illustrates the power generated by constructive friction (and LOVE)!
We’re your hosts, James Amato and Terry McKee, a duo with a 32-year friendship and a multi-location, 7-figure-grossing business partnership as co-owners of NUOVO Salons. We’ll show you how we came upon the discovery that the integration of these opposite perspectives can propel a project, a team, a company, and YES, the world!
Produced by Imaginal Marketing.
Latest Episodes:
Episode 10:
In this episode of When Opposites Align, James and Terry welcome industry icon Candy Shaw, known around the world as the “Balay Lama.” From building a salon empire to revolutionizing hair education, Candy shares her incredible journey rooted in passion, perseverance, and purpose.
She reflects on the role of mentorship and family in shaping her career, the lessons she’s learned balancing artistry with business, and why she believes education is the heartbeat of the beauty industry.
Candy’s story is a masterclass in resilience and reinvention—an inspiring listen for anyone who believes in the power of hard work, heart, and a little bit of hair magic.
Listen to Episode 10:
Episode 9:
In this episode of When Opposites Align, James and Terry sit down with Debbie Penzone, CEO of PENZONE Salons + Spas and a true visionary in the beauty industry. Debbie opens up about her journey from hairstylist to executive leader, and how she’s reimagining salon culture with a focus on mindfulness, wellness and community.
The conversation touches on:
- Building a people-first culture in the beauty industry
- How mindfulness and yoga shape her leadership style
- Embracing innovation while staying true to core values
- The importance of resilience, adaptability, and authenticity in business
Debbie’s story is one of courage, compassion, and reinvention—an inspiring listen for entrepreneurs, creatives, and beauty professionals alike.
Listen to Episode 9:
Episode 8:
In this special unplugged episode of When Opposites Align, Terry McKee and James Amato put the mics on each other. With no guest and no script, the longtime friends and business partners go deep on what it really takes to build something lasting—together. They share candid reflections on their 37-year journey of leading NUOVO, the challenges of being opposites in both personality and perspective, and how honoring differences has been the key to their success. From human design to emotional intelligence, creative sparks to spreadsheets, it’s all on the table. If you’ve ever wondered how two very different people can thrive in business (and friendship), this episode is for you.
Listen to Episode 8:
Episode 7:
In this episode of When Opposites Align, James and Terry chat with branding expert and Oui, We Studio founder Andi Alleman. Andi shares how she blends emotional intelligence, human design, and AI to help creatives build authentic brands. From her beauty industry roots to her game-changing sabbatical in Spain, this episode explores how purpose and technology can align to create something truly impactful.
Listen to Episode 7:
Episode 6:
James Amato and Terry McKee, hosts of “When Opposites Align,” interview beauty industry icon and executive coach, Jay Williams.
Discover how their seemingly opposite perspectives align to uncover powerful insights from Williams, author of “This Versus That: Better Thinking, Better Choices, Better Leader.”
This episode explores the critical role of emotional intelligence in the beauty industry, leadership, and personal growth, offering tangible takeaways for both seasoned professionals and aspiring leaders.
Listen to Episode 6:
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