A Joi-ful Welcome To Jeannetta Walker-Rodgers

With 20+ years’ experience in hairstyling, coloring, and extensions under her belt, Chicago-based Jeannetta Walker-Rodgers has a long list of bragging rights: Yes, she’s a Certified Master Colorist and Texture Expert, who’s racked up nominations for some of the beauty industry’s most coveted awards. And, yes, she’s graced the main stages of prominent national shows, including Behind the Chair, Hair Love Retreat, Texture VS Race, Texture Hair Elevated, and much more.

But as a celebrated color- transformation specialist, Jeannetta has a mission that’s perhaps even nearer and dearer to her heart – a passion for education, and a dedication to teaching hairstylists across the globe how to be technically excellent in everything from color formulation and technique, to hair care and styling mastery. “Jae,” as she’s known to her wide circle of friends, family, and colleagues, firmly believes in paying it forward; and helping stylists feel confident working with all hair types and textures. Her commitment to elevating others is just one of the many reasons we’re so thrilled she’s joined us here at Joico; and we can’t wait to bring you her infectious joi and hair expertise.

“I come from a family of cosmetologists; my Dad is a licensed barber, and my aunt is still a very active hairstylist. I’ve always been artistic and very good with my hands. As a child and teen, I spent soooooo much time in the salon. I got into nails first at a very young age; doing designs with a piece of thread and acrylic paint at our 8th grade cafeteria table! Next, I started doing hair on myself…then my friends’ and family’s hair…and I was good at it! After my first year of college, I BEGGED my Mom to let me attend hair school, promising I would go back to college when I was done (and I did). My Mom folded with much trepidation; and the rest is history. If only if she could see me now!”

“Life. I get inspiration from everything around me. Architecture, color, textures, emotions…. I’m literally the person who will stop and smell the roses while everyone else is wondering why I’m moving so slowly! I’ve always wanted to learn construction; particularly, creating artistic backsplashes and intricate designs for hardwood flooring. I love to paint with acrylics on canvas, and learned in-depth color theory studying fine art in college. That background definitely helps me in my work today.”

Fun fact: “I adore animals, and one day would love to have a small farm.”