What’s it like to be a straight man building a career in the female-dominated world of hair and beauty? In this episode of Supergene Unleashed, host Stacy Andersen welcomes Raphael Vernon, founder of Muse Avenue, a B2B marketplace revolutionizing the salon industry. From a business student in France to leading a major hair salon franchise in Australia, and ultimately launching his own startup, Raphael shares the lessons he’s learned working alongside women for most of his career, including confronting stereotypes and becoming a genuine ally in the workplace. They also explore the challenges and insights of being a man in a female-led industry, the importance of diversity in the workplace, and taking the entrepreneurial leap of faith. Raphael’s startup advice and blunt viewpoint on what it takes to be a founder and transition from prestige to a “nobody” offer a realistic view of what it really means to be your own boss. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about innovation, resilience, and embracing your unique strengths.