ABOUT THIS EPISODE
Summit Unplugged is SSBC's signature salon leadership retreat in beautiful Cancun, Mexico, and it's back for a second time in January 2026. We're joined by Derek Reynolds, Summit's Associate Director of Training and an organizer of Summit Unplugged.
Derek and Blake get into the disctinctions between self-soothing and self-care and the importance of true self-care for leaders. Also: the gap between the values of many salon owners (Gen X) who often ignore self-care, and younger employees (Gen Z) who tend to prioritize it more.
Then it's on to what you can expect at Unplugged, including sessions with top Summit leaders like Heather Bagby, Dave Kirby and Peter Mahoney, all focused around the theme of joy. Derek reports back from his scouting trip to the gorgeous Breathless Riveria Cancun resort -- and you'll hear about some adjustments to the program incorporating feedback from the innaugural event. Plus the keynote speaker -- legendary stylist, educator and entrepreneur Sam Villa. Oh, and btw our host Blake Reed Evans will be bringing his energy and savoir-faire to the role of Master of Ceremonies once again.
Summit Unplugged takes place January 12-14, 2026. We still have spots available (as of Nov 5, 2025). For questions about registration check our FAQ, or reach out to Derek directly at dreynolds@summitsalon.com.
Watch Derek's Instagram reel from Breathless Riveria Cancun and follow him on IG.
Follow Summit Salon Business Center on Instagram @SummitSalon, and on TikTok at SummitSalon.
SUMM IT UP is now on YouTube! Watch extended cuts of our interviews at www.youtube.com/@summitunlocked
Find host Blake Reed Evans on Instagram @BlakeReedEvans and on TikTok at blakereedevans. His DM's are always open! You can email Blake at bevans@summitsalon.com.
Visit us at SummitSalon.com to connect with others in the industry.
SUMM IT UP is produced and edited by Andrea Muraskin. The executive producer is Tim Fisk.
