Special Guest: Jess Maundrell

In this episode, I had the absolute pleasure of sitting down with the incredibly talented Jess Maundrell—Concept Hair’s Overall Winner and Avant-Garde champion for 2025. At just 19 years old, Jess has already graced posters, magazine covers, and international competitions. Her journey is a true testament to what’s possible when passion, resilience, and creativity collide.

From the very beginning, Jess knew hairdressing was her path. What struck me most in our conversation was her honesty about the struggles—questioning whether to pursue an apprenticeship or a full-time course, battling through self-doubt, and learning to push through the “bad days.” Her decision to follow her gut and stay at West Suffolk College became one of the best choices she’s ever made, and it shows in her results.

We explored her love for avant-garde styling, her standout whale-tail design inspired by environmental themes, and the unique opportunities she’s embraced—from Concept Hair competitions to representing the UK at WorldSkills, even traveling to Japan to exchange skills with international students. Listening to Jess talk about stepping outside her comfort zone reminded me of the power of saying “yes” to opportunities, even when they feel scary.

My Key Takeaways:

• Success in this industry isn’t just about skill—it’s about mindset. Jess reminded me that bad days don’t mean you’re on the wrong path; they’re part of the process.
• Trusting your gut can change everything. Choosing a full course at college when everyone else told her to do an apprenticeship was a defining moment in her career.
• Competitions aren’t only about winning—they’re about confidence, exposure, and building lifelong connections.
• Support systems matter. From mentors like Jo and her lecturers to friends and family, Jess thrived because she leaned on her network.
• Resilience and determination are what set extraordinary learners apart. Jess didn’t give up when things got tough—she kept practicing until she achieved her vision.

I left our chat so inspired, not only by Jess’s talent but also by her humility and drive. She’s proof that age doesn’t define your impact—you do.