Rising Stars: Meet Cari Medina

Today we’d like to introduce you to Cari Medina.

Hi Cari, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I am a Salon Owner, Stylist, and Comedian. My journey began in 2010 when I started Cosmetology School. I had a traumatic experience as a teenager, that led me to develop PTSD. I was in and out of High School but got my diploma and Cosmetology License in 2012. I received counseling services on and off until 2015 when I finally got serious about my mental health. Through healing, I was able to land a better job.

I began working up the career ladder and started managing my first salon at 24. After 4 1/2 painstaking years, I was proud of my accomplishments and plateaued. I decided to begin my career in a full-service salon. Soon after beginning my new journey, an opportunity came up to support a comedy open mic. I went to the mic with full intention to support, when a local comedian dared me to get up and tell jokes. I decided to and I am forever grateful for comedy. I was desperate for a community that got me outside my house.

Today, I am the founder and producer of Caring Comedy and Co-Producer of Chicano Power Comedy. Today I own my salon, The Crescent Salon. My mission is to provide a calm experience for guests who need an efficient and inclusive environment. As someone who has experienced PTSD in the LGBTQ+ environment, I know others with my experiences are out there. I’m happy to take care of guests in a more tailored space.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It hasn’t been a smooth road. I battled PTSD after 2 sexual assaults. In addition later on, as an adult, I battled being overweight.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
Today I own my salon, The Crescent Salon. My mission is to provide a calm experience for guests who need an efficient and inclusive environment. As someone who has experienced PTSD in the LGBTQ+ environment, I know others with my experiences are out there. I’m happy to take care of guests in a more tailored space.

Contact Info:

• Website: Thecrescentsalon.com
• Instagram: @Thecrescentsalon
• Facebook: @Thecrescentsalon
• Twitter: @Caringcomedy

Image Credits
Gregory Watson