Rising Stars: Meet Rodney Mitchell

Today we’d like to introduce you to Rodney Mitchell.

Hi Rodney, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I grew up in a small town in Alabama. I was watching the Country Music Awards on the floor of my living room at five years old and immediately knew I wanted to be in Nashville one day. I thought I wanted to be a singer, but instead, I became a hairdresser in the late 80s. I decided to leave Alabama and make a start in the city had I loved since I was young.

In the late 90s, I landed my first celebrity appointment with Martina McBride. That experience paved the way for me to meet and style Faith Hill, Shania Twain, Tim McGraw, Tanya Tucker, and many more.

In 1998, I stumbled upon an old house on 19th Avenue. It turned out to be a commercial property and where I decided to open my first salon. I have been blessed to see Rodney Mitchell Salon thrive throughout the years.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Though I have had a successful career, there have been challenges throughout my journey. As things change in our industry, issues arise and you have to learn to grow and innovate through them. During Covid-19 and the even recession a decade ago, I dealt with challenges just like any other business owner. My team and I fought to continue to do our work, as many people struggled financially and could not afford to get their hair done as usual.

Covid was difficult as we navigated state and city-enforced rules about social distancing, but our number one concern was keeping our clients safe. We are so thankful that our doors stayed open after 2020 (unlike so many other businesses) and we are a thriving business! I am proud of how my team handled the past two years, and appreciate our clients’ grace through it all.

Another challenge I have experienced is people taking advantage of me in business. Unfortunately, I have had people in my life that have stolen money from me. I value trust and loyalty in relationships, so this hurt me dearly. Lastly, I would say a very recent challenge has been staffing.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am a business owner, professional, and artist! I own Rodney Mitchell Salon and continue to work as a stylist alongside my talented employees.

I’m proud to be one of the South’s most influential hair stylists for more than two decades, working with celebrities around the world. Most recently, I serviced Speaker Nancy Pelosi (uploaded photo attached to this Q&A). I have also worked with Faith Hill, Tim McGraw, Jeffrey Steele, Big Kenny, Martina McBride, Tanya Tucker, and Shania Twain. I also have enjoyed working with fashion designers for their shows. These designers include Michael Vollbracht, Ralph Rucci, Pamella Roland, Lela Rose, Zang Toi, David Rodriquez, Rosalinia, Tracy Stern, Mattoe Norris, Douglas Hannaut, Gustavo Cadille, Tulah, and Badgley Mischka.

I love my community and work to make Nashville and Middle Tennessee a better place by using my fundraising and hair skills to do good for others. I’ve helped raise millions for organizations like Feed America First, The American Cancer Society, Look Good Feel Better, Gilda’s Club, Locks of Love, Bridges of Williamson County, Nashville Cares, The Comprehensive Care Center, The Human Rights Campaign, Camp Smile Mile, The Elephant Sanctuary, The Nashville Symphony, the Red Cross, and the Second Harvest Food Bank.

What matters most to you? Why?
I want every client to feel their best after receiving amazing customer service at Rodney Mitchell Salon. Each person who walks through our doors will get the same experience that celebrities have encountered here. I also really value the charity work I have done. As I have mentioned, I’ve worked with dozens of non-profits and feel blessed to be able to help by using my talent and passion for hair, along with my fundraising skills.

When it comes to my relationships, I value loyalty. After owning five salons since 1998, I have realized how important loyalty is in personal and business relationships.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.rodneymitchellsalon.com
• Instagram: Rodney Mitchell Salon
• Facebook: Rodney Mitchell Salon
• Other: https://www.instagram.com/rodneymitchellsalon/