Celebrity hairstylist and fashion maven Alonzo Arnold pulled up to Pour Minds for a candid conversation with hosts Lex P and Drea Nicole. From her rise in the beauty industry to spending five figures on clothes each month, Alo didn’t hold back. The trio also tackled everything from self-sabotaging career moves to dating as a virgin in the spotlight.
From TGI Fridays to Celebrity Stylist
Alonzo’s journey in the hair industry started in 2012 while working at TGI Fridays. Without a formal cosmetology license, she learned everything from her aunt Angie in Atlanta. Her breakthrough came when she styled Basketball Wives star Bambi, which led to working with Real Housewives of Atlanta‘s Porsha Williams and later Megan Thee Stallion.
Despite her celebrity clientele, Alo admitted she prefers working with regular clients, citing reliability and prompt payments. She also reflected on her time with Megan, noting their professional relationship ended around 2021 but recalling the rapper as a generous client who gave thoughtful gifts.
The Business of Beauty & Personal Style
Known for her bold fashion choices, Alonzo shared that she currently spends around $10,000 per month on clothes, mixing luxury and budget-friendly pieces. She also hinted at possibly expanding into styling services beyond hair.
When it comes to hairstyling trends, Alo embraces a more natural look, moving away from heavy bundles and over-styled baby hairs. She emphasized that in the beauty business, personality matters just as much as skill, revealing that around 60% of her clients come back because they enjoy her energy. However, she admitted she misses the community feel of traditional salons, as private suites have changed the industry dynamic.
Candid Moments: Self-Gaslighting, Dating & Industry Drama
Beyond beauty, the conversation took a turn into deeper topics:
- Self-Sabotage in Careers – The trio discussed how people often “gaslight” themselves out of opportunities, whether by staying in unfulfilling jobs or not advocating for their worth.
- Dating & Virginity – Alonzo revealed she is not asexual, as previously assumed, and identifies as gay. She opened up about dating as a virgin and the challenges of romance while being a public figure. She also shared her attraction to masculine-presenting men, often referred to as “trade.”
- Celebrity Business Drama – Alo recalled a past dispute with gospel singer Lena Waithe over an unpaid $5,000 wig order. After failed negotiations, she chose to block Waithe and move on.
Pop Culture & Social Media Talk
The trio also weighed in on trending topics, including:
- Beyoncé’s “Chitlin Circuit” Tour Debate – They dissected fan reactions to Bey’s tour name, pointing out that while the historical circuit focused on smaller cities, logistical issues make it tough for major artists to tour in those areas.
- Social Media Stars Who Deserve More Shine – They spotlighted Clark, a 22-year-old Black influencer heading to law school, and argued that TikTok should give her more recognition.
Music, Business & Audience Q&A
- The hosts put listeners on to underground artist Syd Franklin’s song “Plastic Waterfalls” and shared their takes on new music from Latto and Playboi Carti.
- Drea plugged her Muse Beauty Collection, featuring lip glosses, blushes, and an upcoming mascara launch.
- In the “Pour Your Heart Out” advice segment, they tackled dilemmas like dating with an age gap and navigating a friendship strained by an abortion discussion.
