Who Is Kim Allison?

I’m Kim Allison, a proud mother of two and grandmother of two, who followed my heart from the world of academia to the world of hair. After spending 10 years as an administrator at Arizona State University, I realized that my true passion was calling. I knew I was destined to be a business owner, and hair was where my creativity could truly shine.

At 26 years old, as a wife, mother to a 7-year-old, and seven months pregnant, I took the leap and enrolled in beauty school while working full-time at ASU. Juggling both worlds for two years was tough, but I was driven by a clear goal: to own my own business by the age of 30. After beauty school, I began my career at a small salon in Scottsdale, which soon became the first franchised Toni & Guy Hairdressing salon in Arizona. Within four years, I advanced from stylist to art director, educator, and specialist in afro-textured hair.

My journey took me from a booth rental in a small salon to co-owning a successful 10-chair salon, and eventually, owning a 14-chair salon on my own. After realizing that sole ownership wasn’t the right fit for my lifestyle, I returned to a smaller suite where I continued my passion for cutting, and, for the first time in my career, began servicing color clients four years ago. Today, I’m a solo salon suite owner, still deeply in love with the craft that has given me so much.

I’m now remarried and enjoy traveling the world with my husband when I’m not behind the chair or spending time with our blended family. Although I plan to step away from the chair, my passion for the hair industry remains as strong as ever. That’s why I created Hair Genius Academy and launched my virtual show, Trendy with Kim Allison, to support and inspire new stylists on their own journeys.

When I’m not working, you’ll find me playing the clarinet, working out, or diving into reality TV and podcasts. I’m also the undisputed queen of game night, a tradition that’s been a part of my life since childhood. I can’t wait to see where this next chapter takes me, as I continue to uplift and mentor the next generation of hair professionals!