We had the good fortune of connecting with Denise Gober and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Denise, what’s something about your industry that outsiders are probably unaware of?
First and foremost, I want to emphasize that the beauty industry isn’t just a hobby or a side hustle for many of us—it’s a deeply ingrained passion and a lifelong dedication. From the countless hours spent perfecting techniques to the continuous learning and staying updated with trends, those of us in this field pour our hearts and souls into our craft.

I would like outsiders to understand the level of dedication and commitment it takes to succeed in this industry. It’s not just about applying makeup or styling hair; it’s about understanding individual preferences, boosting confidence, and often serving as a trusted confidant to our clients. Each brush stroke, each haircut, carries with it the weight of our dedication to our clients’ satisfaction and happiness.

Unfortunately, there’s often a misconception that the beauty industry is somehow less serious or less deserving of respect compared to other professions. But the reality couldn’t be further from the truth. We undergo rigorous training, invest in high-quality products and tools, and continuously refine our skills to ensure that we provide the best possible service to our clients.

I believe it’s time for society to recognize the immense value that the beauty industry brings—not just in terms of aesthetics, but in fostering confidence, self-expression, and even mental well-being. By respecting and appreciating the dedication and passion that drives us, we can elevate the status of this profession and celebrate the incredible contributions it makes to the lives of so many.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
What sets me apart from others in my field is not just the products or services I offer, but the journey that has led me to where I am today. Six years ago, I made the bold decision to move across the country, leaving behind familiarity and comfort to pursue my dreams. It was a leap of faith, stepping into the unknown with little more than a vision and a determination to make it a reality.

The path to where I am today has been anything but easy. Along the way, I’ve faced numerous challenges, from overcoming self-doubt to navigating the complexities of starting and growing a business in a new environment. One of the biggest hurdles I encountered was overcoming malicious intent from others. In an industry where comparison can be all too prevalent, I learned to shift my focus inward, embracing my unique journey and celebrating the successes of others as inspiration rather than competition.

What I’m most proud of in my journey is the brand I’ve built—a multifaceted platform that spans from beauty to mindset mentorship, culminating in the launch of my hair extensions line and my most recent podcast series. Each endeavor has been a labor of love, driven by my passion for empowering others to feel confident, beautiful, and capable of achieving their dreams.

As I look to the future, I’m filled with excitement for the endless possibilities that lie ahead. My business is constantly evolving and expanding, and I’m eager to continue pushing boundaries, breaking barriers, and making a positive impact in the lives of others.

If there’s one thing I want the world to know about me and my brand, it’s that behind every product, every service, every podcast episode, is a genuine desire to uplift and inspire others. My journey may have had its challenges, but it’s those very challenges that have shaped me into the resilient, determined, and passionate individual I am today.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Well seeing as though my best friend actually is visiting soon, I’ve had this preplanned for a while. My best friend is a foodie like me, and we love doing adventurous things where we can laugh and have a good time together.

Day 1:
– Start the day with brunch at a trendy spot like Breakfast Republic or The Cottage La Jolla.
– Take a leisurely stroll around La Jolla Cove, admiring the stunning views and maybe even catching a glimpse of the resident seals.
– Head to Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve for a hike along the beautiful trails overlooking the ocean.
– For dinner, indulge in delicious seafood at The Fish Market in downtown San Diego. (We LOVE seafood)

Day 2:
– Kick off the day with a visit to Balboa Park, exploring its museums, gardens, and iconic landmarks like the Botanical Building and the California Tower.
– Enjoy lunch at Liberty Public Market, a bustling food hall with a wide array of gourmet options to satisfy any foodie’s cravings.
– Spend the afternoon at Punch Bowl Social in downtown San Diego, where you can bowl, play arcade games, and enjoy craft cocktails in a vibrant atmosphere.
– End the day with dinner at a waterfront restaurant like Coasterra, savoring fresh seafood while taking in panoramic views of the San Diego skyline.

Day 3:
– Take a day trip to Mission Beach, where we can soak up the sun, stroll along the boardwalk, and indulge in some delicious ice cream at one of the beachside shops.
– Rent bikes or scooters and explore the scenic Mission Bay Park area.
– For dinner, head to Crab Hut for mouthwatering crab legs and other seafood delights.

Day 4:
– Spend the morning exploring the historic Gaslamp Quarter, browsing the shops, and admiring the Victorian-era architecture.
– Catch a Padres game at Petco Park, while enjoying classic ballpark snacks and drinks.
– After the game, grab dinner at a nearby restaurant like The Blind Burro or Half Door Brewing Company.

Day 5:
– Take a guided food tour of Little Italy, sampling delicious Italian delicacies, artisanal cheeses, and gourmet pastries.
– Visit the USS Midway Museum, where I can show her the historic aircraft carrier and learn about its fascinating role in naval history.
– Wrap up the day with dinner at one of Little Italy’s top restaurants, like Civico 1845 or Juniper & Ivy.

Day 6:
– Explore the charming neighborhood of Old Town San Diego, known for its rich history, colorful shops, and authentic Mexican cuisine.
– Take a walking tour of Old Town State Historic Park, visiting historic sites like the Whaley House and the Old Adobe Chapel.
– Enjoy lunch at Café Coyote or Old Town Mexican Café, indulging in delicious tacos, enchiladas, and margaritas.
– Spend the evening at Comedy Store La Jolla, laughing the night away with hilarious stand-up comedy performances.

Day 7:
– Wrap up her week-long adventure with a relaxing day at one of San Diego’s beautiful beaches, like Coronado Beach or Pacific Beach.
– Rent paddle-boards or kayaks and explore the tranquil waters of Mission Bay.
– Have a farewell dinner at a waterfront restaurant like George’s at the Cove, toasting to an unforgettable week of fun, laughter, and delicious food with my bestie!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
To my incredible mother and father,

Words cannot express the depth of gratitude I feel for your unwavering support and boundless encouragement throughout my journey. From the earliest days of my aspirations to this very moment, you’ve been the steadfast pillars guiding me forward with love and belief.

You’ve instilled in me the value of pursuing my goals with unwavering determination, and you’ve never faltered in your support, even when the path seemed daunting. Your belief in my abilities has been a constant source of strength, empowering me to reach for the stars and execute my dreams with everything I have.

One of the greatest gifts you’ve given me is the freedom to explore and pursue my passions without hesitation. You never said no to any extracurricular activity or endeavor, instead, you stood beside me, cheering me on every step of the way.

Your support for my career has been nothing short of phenomenal. Whether it was celebrating successes or offering words of encouragement during challenges, you’ve been there, unwavering in your belief in my abilities.

Thank you, Mom and Dad, for being my greatest cheerleaders, my most trusted advisors, and my constant source of inspiration. I am endlessly grateful for your love, guidance, and unwavering support. I couldn’t have asked for better parents, and I am forever blessed to have you by my side on this incredible journey called life. I love you both more than I could ever express.

Website: https://beacons.ai/platinumgang

Instagram: @PlatinumGangHair

Other: Booking: www.styleseat.com/denisegober

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