An Inspired Chat with Robyn Kauffman of Old Town Scottsdale

We recently had the chance to connect with Robyn Kauffman and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Robyn, thank you so much for taking time out of your busy day to share your story, experiences and insights with our readers. Let’s jump right in with an interesting one: What’s the most surprising thing you’ve learned about your customers?
The most surprising thing I’ve learned about my customers is how much I get to learn from them beyond just doing their hair. Every person who sits in my chair has a completely different mindset, story, and way of looking at life. I’ve heard so many personal struggles and successes, and it’s really humbling to know that I can sometimes help them feel a little better—whether that’s through listening, offering encouragement, or just giving them a fresh new look that boosts their confidence.

Being so young in this industry, I’ve also been surprised by how much life advice and wisdom my clients share with me. It’s like I get to learn about relationships, careers, and self-growth all while doing what I love. It’s made me realize that hairstyling isn’t just about the cut or color—it’s about connection, trust, and being part of someone’s personal story.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hi, my name is Robyn Kauffman, and I’m a hairstylist at Society Salon in beautiful Old Town Scottsdale. I’m 23 years old, recently married, and originally moved to Arizona about five years ago to start a new chapter both personally and professionally.

I specialize in custom colors, men’s and women’s haircuts, and perms, and I absolutely love creating styles that fit each client’s unique personality and lifestyle. Whether it’s a bold color transformation, a fresh new cut, or bringing back some volume and texture with a perm, I’m all about helping people feel confident and comfortable in their own skin.

One of my favorite things about this industry is that there’s always something new to learn. I’m constantly expanding my knowledge—staying up to date on the latest hair trends, techniques, and products so I can offer the best possible experience to every guest who sits in my chair. I believe education never stops, and that passion for learning keeps me inspired and creative every day.

Beyond the technical side of hairstyling, I truly value the connections I make with my clients. I love hearing people’s stories, learning from their experiences, and creating an environment where they can relax and feel heard. For me, being a hairstylist isn’t just about great hair—it’s about building trust, confidence, and genuine relationships.

Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. What relationship most shaped how you see yourself?
The relationship that has most shaped how I see myself is the one I have with my husband, Parker. He’s truly changed the way I view myself and my worth. Through every high and low, he’s shown me what unconditional love and support really look like. When others tried to tear me down or make me doubt myself, he was always there reminding me of who I am and what I’m capable of.

One of the things I love most about him is that he’s always clapped the loudest for me, so much so that I never even noticed who else was cheering. His constant encouragement has helped me see myself through kinder, more confident eyes. Parker has shown me that I am loved, valued, and capable of more than I ever gave myself credit for—and that has completely changed how I carry myself in every part of my life.

Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
There have definitely been times in my life where I’ve wanted to give up—honestly, more than I can count. Especially in my career, confidence has always been something I’ve struggled with. I used to constantly question myself: Am I talented enough? Kind enough? Hardworking enough? I second-guessed every move I made, always wondering if I was doing enough to belong in this industry.

But over time, I had to take a step back and remind myself why I chose this career in the first place. I didn’t become a hairstylist to be the best or the most successful—I chose it because I love helping people feel their best. That reminder grounded me. It helped me realize that success isn’t about comparison or perfection; it’s about connection, purpose, and passion.

Whenever I start to doubt myself, I think about the clients who leave my chair smiling, feeling confident and seen. That’s what keeps me going, and that’s what reminds me that giving up isn’t an option—because what I do matters.

Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
I think one of the biggest lies our industry tells itself is that success is measured by social media numbers. Just because someone has a large following doesn’t necessarily mean they’re booked out, thriving, or even happy in their career. It’s easy to get caught up in comparing likes, followers, and aesthetics, but that doesn’t always reflect what’s really going on behind the scenes.

True success, in my opinion, comes from building genuine connections with clients, creating consistent work you’re proud of, and finding fulfillment in what you do every day. Social media can be an amazing tool for inspiration and growth, but it shouldn’t define your worth or dictate your idea of success. The real magic in this industry happens behind the chair — not on the screen.

Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: Could you give everything your best, even if no one ever praised you for it?
Absolutely. I truly believe in giving my best, even if no one ever notices or praises me for it. Integrity has always been incredibly important to me, both personally and professionally. At the end of the day, I have to be able to look in the mirror and feel proud of the person I am and the work I do.

I’d much rather know that I did the right thing—even when no one was watching—than find “success” through shortcuts or shady business practices. To me, real success isn’t about recognition; it’s about knowing you’ve stayed true to your values, treated people with respect, and put genuine care into everything you do. That’s the kind of reputation that lasts, and that’s the kind of person I always want to be.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://linktr.ee/robyndoesmyhair
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/robyndoesmyhair?igsh=MW9uaHg3MThjbzQ5NQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1SV3me9nkR/?mibextid=wwXIfr