The Story He Hasn't Told Until Now

“Loved this episode so much!!! I love this BTS of what Jonathan REALLY has to say!! More of this” - Spotify podcast reviewer

Today’s conversation all started with a viral video with 1M views where I questioned if JVN Hair was the biggest celebrity brand failure of all time.

Here to sit down with me today and unpack it all is Jonathan Van Ness himself — because behind the headlines about bankruptcy and brand failure is a human being fighting to survive, rebuild, and stay authentically true to their mission.

Jonathan opens up about the rise, fall, and rebirth of one of the fastest-growing celebrity beauty brands, and the personal toll it took to fight for his team, his products, and himself.

We cover:
• How JVN Hair went from Sephora bestseller to bankruptcy overnight
• Why losing millions changed Jonathan’s entire approach to money
• The shocking health scare that became a turning point in his life
• What it means to finally have equity and control in your own brand
• The pressure of fame, culture wars, and being publicly misunderstood
• How therapy, resilience, and self-acceptance became his lifelines

Jonathan’s story is raw, unfiltered, and one of the most inspiring conversations we’ve had on this show - and one of my favorite episodes to date!!!!!

Use HSR25 for 25% off at jvn.com (excludes bundles, subscriptions & gift cards).

♡ 01. courage cream blush ♡
This buildable blush is infused with elderberry, a plant known for its resilience and protection, the perfect reminder that beauty can be both bold and nourishing.

♡ 02. fearless eyeshadow ♡
Formulated with honey calcite, a stone believed to spark confidence and creativity, this eyeshadow is more than makeup; it’s an energy shift. The shades are wearable yet statement-making, ideal for days when you want to step out stronger.

♡ 03. a real retirement plan ♡
We talk so much about skincare and routines, but true self-care is also about financial health. Knowing you’re building security for your future is grounding, empowering, and yes - hot. Because the freedom to choose your own path is priceless.

♡ 04. patrick ta blush duo ♡
The “She’s Seductive” shade is a cult favourite for a reason, it’s sophisticated, versatile, and looks just as good on a no-makeup day as it does paired with a full glam look. The cream-and-powder duo makes layering foolproof, and it lasts.

♡ 05. diptyque fragrances ♡
Diptyque isn’t just perfume; it’s poetry in a bottle. Their scents are timeless and transportive. One spritz and you’re walking through Paris in the spring or stepping into a sunlit Mediterranean garden. A ritual that lingers.

♡ 06. jvn hair air dry cream ♡
The ultimate effortless styling essential. It smooths, defines, and softens without heat, so you get lived-in texture with zero effort. I reach for it on busy mornings when I want my hair to look intentional but never overdone. HSR25 for 25% off!

♡ 07. solidcore workouts ♡
Think Pilates, but on steroids (in the best way). It’s a low-impact, high-intensity sweat that leaves your muscles shaking in the moment and stronger in the long run. A true challenge, but one that makes you crave coming back.

♡ 08. quality time ♡
Time offline, unplugged, and just being present, whether it’s laughing with his husband or cuddling their pets. The reminder: your best investments aren’t always financial; sometimes, they’re the quiet hours that fill you up.

♡ 09. podcasts ♡
Bag Man, Ultra, anything by Rachel Maddow! The kind of storytelling that’s gripping, smart, and makes you think differently about history and politics. Perfect for long walks, commutes, or winding down while learning something new.

♡ 10. really good handbags ♡
Because fashion should be joy, not pressure. A well-made bag is a piece you carry through years and seasons, a little armor, a little art. It doesn’t just hold your things, it tells your story.

♡ Hot Hack ♡

Use JVN Essential Dry Shampoo on a fresh blowdry to extend its life.

♡ Smart Hack ♡

Use Lugless luggage to skip the wait at baggage claim.

♡ Rich Tip ♡

Make credit cards work for you, not the other way around.

When Maggie said our brand did a really good turnaround. Being complimented by someone as smart as her meant the world.

This October marks 20 years since I started doing hair!!! I’m obsessed!