In this episode of The Authentic Only Show, Joey Chmiko—chef-owner of Nonavo Pizza and seasoned kitchen pro—sits down with Shaiann Insixiengmay, a talented barber and stylist at Vancouver, Washington’s renowned Tonsor. Shaiann’s journey from aspiring stylist to licensed barber was shaped by Tonsor’s unique internship program, guided by the mentorship of Hanif Collins, Tonsor’s owner and the very first guest on The Authentic Only Show.
Joey and Shaiann dive into the fascinating parallels between their crafts, from choosing the right tools to mastering their use. Just as Joey selects cooking knives that fit his style and technique, Shaiann shares how she carefully chooses her hairstyling tools to match her creative vision. They also explore the art of keeping their tools sharp—whether it’s a chef’s knife or a pair of clippers—and how maintaining those tools is essential to delivering exceptional results.
This heartfelt and engaging conversation goes beyond the surface, touching on the importance of mentorship, the value of hands-on learning, and the dedication it takes to excel in any creative field. Joey and Shaiann’s shared passion for their crafts shines through as they discuss the similarities between the kitchen and the barber’s chair, proving that no matter the medium, authenticity and skill are universal.
Tune in for an inspiring, long-form conversation that celebrates the tools, techniques, and mentors that shape our creative journeys. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, artist, or just someone who loves a good story, this episode is packed with insights, laughter, and real talk about staying sharp—both in your craft and in life.
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