We’re looking forward to introducing you to Irene U.. Check out our conversation below.
Irene , really appreciate you sharing your stories and insights with us. The world would have so much more understanding and empathy if we all were a bit more open about our stories and how they have helped shaped our journey and worldview. Let’s jump in with a fun one: What are you most proud of building — that nobody sees?
My relationships with my peers in LA & SF. Ive always nurtured relationships and that has deepened business connections for me. In 2016 I took the opportunity to style hair for a 3 day video shoot with an all female production crew for Peaches “RUB”. That experience connected me to a cast of all star queers like April Flores, Dani Daniels, and Courtney Trouble. In 2023 Courtney & I brought our dream to life when we booked Peaches for our Queerly Beloved SF pride event. It was truly a night of queer joy that was unforgettable, and Im very proud of that. Tina Turner had just passed and Peaches sang ‘Private dancer’ a cappella as an encore that had me in tears. That will always be a very proud moment for me and Id love to do it again in LA.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Irene U. is born & raised from Southern California. After 25 years as a celebrity hair stylist I was burnt out on the Hollywood entertainment industry, absolutely drained from babysitting hairs on set with pop stars. I competed in hair competitions, did hair for TV, film, video, print and fashion- you name it I did it. In 2006 I was diagnosed with choroidal melanoma (retinal cancer) which after radiation treatment I was left with zero vision in my left eye. This changed a lot of things for me but never slowed me down much. The stories I have from my hair styling days will one day make a memoir for sure.
In 2016 Your Muther was born and I stepped out as a DJ which put me in LGBTQ spaces. My work as a DJ + event organizer has been so much more fulfilling than all my years of hair styling in Hollywood.
Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. What did you believe about yourself as a child that you no longer believe?
As child I always wanted to have 10 children because my grandmother did. But now I would never wish that on anyone!! I really don’t know how she did it. Im incredibly happy with my fiancé + our house plants, that’s more than enough for us.
What’s something you changed your mind about after failing hard?
Your Muther is not Mother Teresa that was something that took me years to realize. Not everyone deserves my friendship or my kindness. Failing is a part of success and Ive definitely had the best support system to remind me to keep going. One of my big challenges is that I don’t see myself as others see me- Im always striving to do better & bigger. Now I slow down and take a look at my accomplishments more, like ‘ok girl, YOU DID THAT!’
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? What’s a belief or project you’re committed to, no matter how long it takes?
Abolishing the patriarchy at all costs. Defunding + disarming the police, ICE and the military. No one is free on stolen land.
Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. What do you understand deeply that most people don’t?
My spirtuality and devotion to Santa Muerte. Growing up Mexican, queer and with a religious mother- I lost faith so early in my life because I was always told being gay was a sin. When I discovered Santa Muerte and everything clicked, like I finally felt accepted, like I belonged and have purpose.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.listentoyourmuther.com
- Instagram: @yourmuther
- Twitter: @yourmuther_
- Facebook: @Lezcroix
- Soundcloud: /yourmuther
Image Credits
Photos by Jules Monstera
