Today we’d like to introduce you to Jen Rawson Franzwa.
Hi Jen, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I’ve been obsessed with hair for as long as I can remember, even though my career didn’t start there. I took a more traditional route into business management, eventually landing in an upper-management compliance role in low-income property management—until I was laid off and forced to pause. That moment became the catalyst I didn’t know I needed. I pivoted into the beauty industry with intention, soaking up every opportunity to learn, push boundaries, and evolve. After maxing out what a high-end salon could offer, I broke away to build something of my own. The Hair DeJenerate was born from that leap—part rebellion, part reinvention, and fully aligned with who I am as an artist and entrepreneur.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
There have definitely been a few struggles in this journey. One of the biggest challenges has been learning to set boundaries and protect a healthy work–life balance. Transitioning from a team environment to full independence required a major mindset shift, as did stepping into roles far beyond working behind the chair. Running my own business means I’m not just doing hair—I’m also in charge of branding, handling marketing, ordering supplies, managing finances, and wearing every hat in between. That learning curve has been intense, but it’s also been empowering.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
The Hair DeJenerate is a full-service hair salon studio in Coon Rapids where I offer everything from precision haircuts and custom color to hair extensions and specialized treatments that prioritize the health of the guests hair. I’ve been intentional about creating a space that feels calm and restorative, but also fun—for my guests and for myself (I love photo bombing their slefies)—where the experience is just as important as the results. I’m deeply proud of the space I’ve built and the values behind it. I lead with honesty and integrity and refuse to sell services or products that don’t serve my guests and their hair goals. My guests trust me, many have become friends. This is something I do not take lightly.
Over the years, I’ve become especially known for my blonding work. I’m honored that guests travel from hours away to sit in my chair for icy blondes, foils, and balayage crafted specifically for them, while keeping the health of their hair the number one priority.
Giving back and staying connected to the community is also an important part of my work. Each October, I host The Pink Hair Dare, offering pink hair extensions and hair tinsel, with all proceeds donated to the M Health Fairview Masonic Cancer Center.
After a dear client was diagnosed with stage four breast cancer, I was inspired to create the Radiance for Rachel Project, an ongoing initiative within my salon. The project provides complimentary hair support for women during and after chemotherapy, including hair cutting, reshaping as it grows back, and wig cutting. It’s a way for me to support women during an incredibly difficult time and to use my skills to give back in a meaningful, personal way.
Are there any important lessons you’ve learned that you can share with us?
Say yes to every opportunity to learn and grow, then pass that knowledge forward. Be unapologetically yourself, trust your intuition, and let it guide the decisions you make for your business. The moment I stopped outsourcing my confidence and started listening to myself, everything clicked. I attracted guests who aligned with my energy and my work—and as a result, my days behind the chair became something I genuinely enjoy.
None of this happened on my own. I’ve been shaped by incredible mentors—from salons I worked in early on to independent stylists building their own businesses. I’m deeply passionate about this industry, and I believe in paying that support forward, whether it’s with students just starting out or seasoned stylists who have been on their own for years. Everyone has something to teach, and growth doesn’t stop when you “make it.”
Pricing:
- Haircuts $42-$60
- Foiling starts at $132
- Balayage starts at $161
- Color starts at $99
Contact Info:
- Website: https://hairbyjenniferlynne.glossgenius.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thehairdejenerate/
- Other: Tiktok @thehairdejenerate
