K.Shantel is an entrepreneur and licensed nail technician that runs a successful nail business, Shantelz Nailz! With an ever-growing clientele, this beauty beast hopes to inspire others with disabilities and help to bridge the gap in disability representation in mainstream media. K.Shantel has also been busy preparing to debut a vlog series titled KlawTalk”. In which she will interview uprising talent in Birmingham, Alabama and surrounding cities while providing them with nail services. Her story of resilience to live her life out to the fullest is the ultimate inspiration. There’s nothing she can’t do once she set her mind to it, and she wants to share one message with the world: YOU CAN DO IT TOO!

Interview by Karl Young

When did you become a nail technician?

I graduated nail school June of 2017.

Tell me what words your mentor Ebony Smith said to you, that inspired you to become a nail technician?

When we met, she saw my own nails and asked me who did them.  I told her I did them myself.  She said your shaping is really good.  You should go to nail school, you’ll be a natural.

What advice/wisdom would you give to anyone who is thinking of owning their own nail salon?

I would advise them to be prepared, before they take that step.  I was always taking steps to be prepared to work for myself, before I actually did it.  You want to develop professional people skills and be able to handle your own financially.

What tips would you give to individuals to help them maintain strong healthy nails?

To maintain strong and healthy nails, it all starts with what you are first putting your body.  Drink plenty of water and eat your fruits and vegetables.  Then, keep your cuticles moisturized with cuticle oil.  It’s really just that simple.

How was Klaw Talk birthed and what was the experience like recording your first episode of Klaw Talk?

I was talking with my brother one day about ways to merge my love for the entertainment industry and my career into one.  We discussed interview based nail appointments.  It was the genius way of doing both of the things I love.  I could interview people who are making moves in the industry while doing their nails.  The perfect combination.  My first recording was so amazing.  It was like watching my dream come to life and at the end of it, my interviewee loved her nails.  Icing on the cake.

Where do you see Klaw Talk in five years from now?

I see KlawTalk being a huge hit with millions of subscribers all tuned it to see what I and my guests have to say.  They’ll also see some bomb nails in the process.

Do you have any new business ventures in the making or any upcoming events?

Nothing new at the moment.  Just trying to make KlawTalk more successful, eventually expanding and opening a full service salon.

Would you rather spend five days exploring New York City or Disney?

I’d rather spend five days exploring New York City.

What is the best thing that has happened to you this year?

The best thing that has happened to me this year, was I watched my business grow and flourish.  It has been an amazing thing to witness.

What is one thing that brings a smile to your face, no matter the time of day?

One thing that always brings a smile to my face is music.  No matter the time of day.

What must be seen or experienced in person to really appreciate it?

I believe my personality must be experienced in person to really appreciate it.

How can everyone keep in contact with you on social media.

To keep up with me on social media, people can follow me on Instagram at @k.shantel_spot and my nail page @shantelznailz .