We had the good fortune of connecting with Mia Odum and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Mia, what’s the most important lesson your business/career has taught you?
Take care of yourself. Self-care is number one. Take time to have a lunch. Making your
schedule work for you so that you have time to rejuvinate and reset. Not working for the
business but making the business work for you.
Learning to schedule and price properly has been a lesson that I’ve learned.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
What sets my business apart is my insatiable drive for knowledge and a mindset that never gives up. I’m committed to learning, evolving, and bringing the best to my clients, no matter the challenges. It hasn’t been an easy road—balancing 28 years as a stylist and 22 years as a salon owner, especially through tough times like the recession, while also growing my family and managing marriage, children, and extracurricular activities.

The biggest lesson I’ve learned is the importance of self-care and working smarter, not harder. It’s about creating balance, prioritizing what matters most, and continually pushing forward. My brand is a reflection of my values—it represents quality, love, and passion for the beauty industry. What I want the world to know is that I am dedicated to my craft and to making a positive impact on every person who walks through my salon doors.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Day 1: Start the day with a morning run through Lenox Park, followed by a nutritious breakfast at R. Thomas Deluxe Grill, known for its fresh, vegetarian-friendly options. Afterward, we’d explore the High Museum of Art for some culture and inspiration. Later, we’d enjoy a peaceful meditation session at Piedmont Park, allowing us to center ourselves in nature. For dinner, we’d head to Herban Fix for a delicious plant-based meal, followed by an evening of live jazz at St. James Live.

Day 2: Begin the morning with a serene bike ride through Piedmont Park, then head to Cafe Sunflower for a healthy lunch. The afternoon would be dedicated to deep

relaxation at The Spa at Four Seasons Hotel Atlanta, where we’d indulge in luxurious treatments, including a guided meditation session to rejuvenate body and mind.

Day 3: Start with a visit to the Atlanta Botanical Garden to connect with nature, followed by lunch at Tassili’s Raw Reality, known for its fresh raw and vegan dishes. In the afternoon, we’d join a guided meditation class at a local studio to recharge.  In the evening, we’ll unwind at one of Atlanta’s finest upscale dining and entertainment venues, Suite Food Lounge, for a night out on the town, complete with karaoke and a vibrant atmosphere.

Day 4: Escape to Serenbe, a wellness and eco-friendly community outside Atlanta. We’d start with a morning run on their scenic trails, followed by farm-to-table meals at The Farmhouse Restaurant. The day would include nature walks and a meditative session, surrounded by the tranquility of the countryside, offering a perfect reset from the city.

Day 5 – Day 7: The rest of the week would continue with a blend of wellness and culture— morning runs and bike rides, healthy meals at Atlanta’s top vegetarian spots, meditation sessions, more museum trips, and additional spa days for complete relaxation. It would be a week dedicated to rejuvenating the mind, body, and spirit, while experiencing the vibrant cultural and serene landscapes around Atlanta

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would love to dedicate this shoutout to Laverne Usher, the woman who played a pivotal role in shaping my career. Laverne was not only my mentor but also like a second mother to me. I started my career in her salon, and from day one, she poured her wisdom and experience into me. She taught me the ins and outs of the business—lessons that went far beyond just hair styling.

She was a beacon of support, mentorship, and love. I wouldn’t be where I am today without her influence, and I’m eternally grateful for the foundation she gave me. Laverne deserves all the recognition for being the incredible mentor and second mother she was to me.

Website: https://miazhairgallery.com

Instagram: @miazhairgallery

Facebook: @miazhairgallery

Other: tiktok-@miazhairgallery

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