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 14:
What does it actually mean to build a “whole” salon?
In this episode of When Opposites Align, Terry and James sit down with industry leader Tim Belcher—founder of Whole Salon Group and Whole Consulting—to explore the deeper side of salon success.
This episode is equal parts practical and deeply human—offering both strategy and perspective for salon owners at every stage.
Listen to Episode 14:
Episode 13:
In this episode of When Opposites Align, Terry and James welcome Scott Buchanan—salon owner, respected industry educator, and President of Intercoiffure America/Canada—for a thoughtful conversation on leadership, service, and the power of community.
Listen to Episode 13:
Episode 12:
In this episode of When Opposites Align, Terry and James sit down with Shane Wolf, Global Brand President of Aveda, for a powerful conversation on leadership, legacy, and alignment. From his roots behind the chair to leading one of the most iconic brands in the beauty industry, Shane shares how listening, authenticity, and purpose-driven structure are shaping Aveda’s next chapter.
Listen to Episode 12:
Episode 11:
In this episode of When Opposites Align, Terry and James sit down with Hannah Thomas, one of NUOVO Salon Group’s rising stars and winner of the Intercoiffure America/Canada Nouveau competition in New York City. Representing the next generation of NUOVO talent, Hannah shares her journey from beauty school to the big stage—and the lessons learned along the way.
She opens up about the power of mentorship, the balance between creativity and structure, and how saying “yes” to new opportunities can change everything. With authenticity, humor, and heart, Hannah proves that passion, community, and courage are the ultimate formula for success.
Listen to Episode 11:
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:
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