Shaun Anthony McMichael
Shaun Anthony McMichael is the Pushcart-nominated author of the forthcoming novel Whistle Punk Falls (Alternative Book Press), along with the short story collection The Wild Familiar and the poetry collection Jack of All…. Since 2007, he has taught writing in classrooms, juvenile detention halls, mental health treatment centers, and homeless youth drop-ins, while editing two collections of poetry by youth impacted by trauma and mental health struggles. Based in Seattle with his wife and son, McMichael teaches English to immigrants and refugees at a public high school and runs an annual literary arts series, Shadow Work Writers. A longtime educator and writing coach for incarcerated and institutionalized populations, he brings compassion and lived experience to his writing, exploring themes of race, class, masculinity, and mental health with honesty and depth.
Van Hong
Van Hong, a seasoned hairstylist, and Kelly Wong, an electrical engineer, co-founded Mint Tools after recognizing how poorly designed salon equipment often caused fatigue and injury for professionals. With over 40 years of combined experience, they set out to create tools that balance beauty and functionality—blow dryers, irons, wands, and brushes that are ergonomic, durable, and tested by stylists in real salon environments. For Van, the mission is personal—having experienced firsthand the toll of long styling days, she ensures Mint Tools are built to protect stylists’ health while elevating their craft. Together, she and Kelly are reshaping the industry by designing tools made by beauty professionals, for beauty professionals, giving them the comfort and performance they deserve.
