Podcasts about hairdressers

Most salon owners who struggle with their team have never stopped to ask whether the problem starts with them. Salon management is one of the hardest parts of running a salon business, and most people learn it by trial and error, often at the expense of their team's morale and their own sanity. In this episode, I'm sharing five things that will make you a more effective manager and leader, starting with a distinction that changes everything.If your team feels stuck, resistant, or disengaged, this episode will help you figure out why, and what to do about it. You'll finish with a clearer picture of what good leadership in a salon actually looks like, and a few things you can start doing differently this week.IN THIS EPISODE:Why managing people and leading people are two completely different things, and why it mattersThe real reason your team might not be doing what you ask, and why that starts with youHow to delegate properly so that people build confidence, not dependencyWhy your job as a leader is not to motivate your team but to stop demotivating themThe simple habits around accessibility and attention that build trust faster than any team meetingHow to create a culture where your team starts asking "what else can we do?" instead of "that's not my job"EPISODE TIMESTAMPS[00:00] Introduction: are you actually a good salon manager? [00:30] The difference between managing people and leading people [01:17] Why your two main objectives as a leader pull in different directions [02:13] Why people need a completely different approach to processes and systems [02:41] Point one: designing a system that sets your whole team up to succeed [04:00] Point two: learning to delegate properly, and what that actually means [05:38] Why team culture problems are ultimately a leadership problem [07:19] The goal of getting your team to think more like an owner [08:32] Point three: why motivation is not what you think it is [10:28] The habits, traditions, and systems that shape team morale [11:16] Point four: being accessible when your team needs you most [12:25] Point five: the power of paying full attention in the moment [13:24] Final thoughts on building people with unlimited potentialWant MORE to help you GROW?

On this episode, Chris gets alittle Tea On Tuesday and has a one on one conversation with one of his favorite hairdressers Laura!

What separates hairstylists who burn out from those who build thriving careers for decades? In this episode, Ambrosia sits down with salon owner and hairstylist Travis Noel to explore the often-overlooked skills that create true longevity behind the chair. With more than 30 years in the industry, Travis shares powerful insights on communication, confidence, comparison, abundance mindset, mentorship, failure, and why hairstylists are actually in the people business, not the hair business. Together, they unpack why technical skills alone aren't enough, how to stop comparing yourself to other stylists, what it really takes to build confidence, and why community may be the most valuable asset a hairstylist can have. If you've ever struggled with self-doubt, career direction, difficult salon environments, or simply wondered how to create a career you still love years from now, this conversation is packed with wisdom, perspective, and practical encouragement. Enjoy GlossGenius Gold or Platinum at 50% off for 2 months using code SUCCESSFUL: http://glossgenius.com/successfulstylist Download our FREE 6 Figure Stylist Guide Find @traviss.noelsy on Instagram Key Takeaways 1. Hairdressers aren't in the hair business, they're in the people business. Hair is simply the vehicle through which connection, communication, and transformation happen. 2. Technical skills may get clients in your chair, but communication, emotional intelligence, and relationship-building are what create long-term success. 3. Confidence isn't something you magically achieve. It's built through experience, repetition, failure, and the willingness to keep showing up. 4. Comparison kills joy. The most successful stylists learn to replace comparison with inspiration and focus on their own unique path. 5. There is no final destination where you've "figured it all out." Even the most experienced hairstylists are still learning, evolving, and growing. 6. An abundance mindset creates opportunity. Scarcity focuses on limitations; abundance focuses on possibilities and action. 7. Success requires both boundaries and effort. While protecting your energy matters, there is no substitute for consistent hard work. 8. Failure is not proof that you're not talented, it's part of the process of becoming skilled, resilient, and confident. 9. The salon environment may not always be perfect, but learning to navigate different personalities is a valuable career and life skill. 10. Mentorship matters at every stage of your career. Even mentors need mentors. 11. Community is essential, especially in an era where many stylists work independently in salon suites. 12. The hairstyling industry is filled with people who want to help. Don't be afraid to reach out, ask questions, and seek support. 13. When people feel beautiful, they do beautiful things. The impact of a hairstylist extends far beyond the service itself. 14. True success isn't just financial. It's creating a career that allows you to experience joy, purpose, growth, and fulfillment behind the chair. Enjoy 15% off our favorite skincare line, Pharmagel with code SSA15: https://pharmagel.net/?ref=SSA15 If you prefer viedeo, join us on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@successfulstylist For more, follow along on Instagram  

The salon industry is constantly changing. It always has and it always will. Some of the changes you'll like and others you won't. Either way, understanding what drives change allows you to anticipate the future and prepare for the opportunities that come with change. In this episode, I walk through 10 drivers of change that are reshaping how salons operate, who clients are becoming, and how the competitive landscape is shifting in ways that will catch a lot of people off guard.Some of what I cover will feel familiar. Some of it might surprise you. But the final point on my list is the one I think very few people in the industry are talking about, and I genuinely believe it could be the most significant shift we see over the next decade. If you care about where your business and this industry are heading, this one is worth your time.IN THIS EPISODE:Why the competitive landscape is shifting and what it means for employee-based salon owners specificallyHow economic pressure and changing consumer behaviour are forcing salons to operate differentlyThe generational shift happening at both ends of the workforce and what it means for salon ownershipWhy AI will not replace hairdressers, and how it could actually free salon owners up to focus on what matters mostThe surprising prediction about who the salon owner of the future might be and why it could be good news for the industryWhat the Anthropic report on AI and employment reveals about where hairdressing sits relative to other industriesEPISODE TIMESTAMPS[00:00] Introduction: thinking about the future of the salon industry[01:14] Understanding the forces that drive change before they arrive[01:42] Driver 1: Where competition is now coming from in hairdressing[03:00] Driver 2: Rising costs, slim margins, and a changing economy[04:00] Driver 3: How government regulation is reshaping how salons hire[05:00] Driver 4: How employee expectations have fundamentally shifted post-COVID[06:12] Driver 5: What clients want now and how appointment patterns are changing[07:16] Driver 6: Generational change from Gen Z to ageing baby boomer owners[09:05] Driver 7: Environmental pressures and what they mean for salons[10:00] Driver 8: How salon design is evolving to reflect a changing world[10:17] Driver 9: Technology, AI, and why the human side of hairdressing gets more valuable[12:36] Driver 10: Who will actually own salons in the future[13:15] The Anthropic report and what it says about hairdressing and AI risk[15:00] Why disrupted professionals may turn to the salon industry next[16:02] What this all means for you and where to get helpWant MORE to help you GROW?

AI has already and will continue to impact the salon industry. One area that is getting a lot of attention is the front desk and the role of AI in streamlining the client booking process, capturing missed calls and directly having a positive impact on salon revenue.  My guest today is Universe Walker, a hairdresser, salon owner, and the founder of Beauty Desk AI, whose AI receptionist Eve answers calls and texts, books appointments, handles escalations, and never puts anyone on hold. We dig into how she built it and why online booking alone isn't enough.If you've ever lost a client because nobody answered the phone, this episode will hit home. You'll walk away understanding exactly what an AI receptionist can and can't do, how it fits alongside your front desk team, and whether an AI receptionist could be the solution your front desk needs.EPISODE TIMESTAMPS[00:00] Introduction: AI is changing how salons handle every incoming call[01:06] Meet Universe Walker, salon owner, hairdresser, and founder of Beauty Desk AI[03:26] The problem Universe set out to solve after COVID changed everything[05:06] Why 75% of salons no longer have a front desk, and what that costs[07:00] What Eve actually does: voice, SMS, bookings, and the all-in-one dashboard[10:12] How Eve integrates with your existing booking platform[12:09] Latency, the "army of Eves," and why conversations feel surprisingly human[16:06] The 200-call experiment: what happened when nobody answered the phone[21:20] How Eve is trained to understand your salon's specific services and language[26:12] Real examples of Eve's empathy, from nervous kids to tsunami evacuations[29:00] How salons with a full reception team use Eve as a backup[36:41] The business insights Eve unlocks that no booking platform can give youWant MORE to help you GROW?

What Do Hairdressers Do for Retirement? Anna Manukyan Has the Answer.Over 800 hairdressers answered that question in a viral Facebook post. The responses ranged from "marry someone rich" to "we die with scissors in our hands." Certified financial educator and licensed fiduciary Anna Manukyan is on a mission to rewrite that ending... one beauty professional at a time.Recorded live at the American Beauty Show in Chicago with co-host Geno Chapman (@genochapman), this episode is part of our live series sponsored by Serious Business (seriousbusiness.net | January 16-18, 2027, New Orleans).Anna's StoryAnna Manukyan immigrated to the US as a political refugee at 9 years old. She quickly learned what hustle really means. Fell in love with the beauty industry working at a local salon. Signed herself up for beauty school before she could legally rent a car.Her dad's response: "We brought you to the United States so you can cut hair? How dare you embarrass the family."That contrast... the dream of possibility versus the harsh reality of how the world sees this industry... lit a fire that never went out. She went on to spend 20 years at L'Oreal in education and business development, leading teams of 30 artists, sitting in boardrooms, and working with beauty professionals at every level across the country.The Money Problem Nobody Talks AboutAfter decades in the industry, Anna kept seeing the same thing. Hairdressers working into their 70s. No retirement. No plan. Just scissors and hope. She became a certified financial educator, got her securities license, and became a licensed fiduciary... the only financial designation legally required to act in the client's best interest. Then she founded Beautiful Wealth Academy to make sure no hairdresser ends their career with a GoFundMe. Because knowledge really does equal power.Beautiful Wealth AcademyAnna built Beautiful Wealth Academy to make financial education accessible and digestible for the creative brain. Download the Level Rewards app, find Smart Finance or License to Thrive, enter code THRIVE for a free $250 finance class. Grab the free 7-step money guide at beautifulwealth.com.What You'll Learn in This EpisodeWhy the longer you stay in the industry without a financial plan, the less money you actually make. How inflation is quietly making you pay your clients to sit in your chair. ETFs vs. mutual funds in plain language. Why $27,000 in Starbucks could have been a $116K portfolio. How to open a brokerage account from scratch.Free Resources from AnnaFollow Anna: @amanukian on InstagramLearn more: beautifulwealth.comSubscribe to Your Day Off wherever you listen. New episodes every week.

(0:00) Intro (1:36) Qurbani ke janwar ko bhagana? (2:57) Qurbani ke dinon mein ghalazat phelana? (3:18) Fajar ki namaz chhor kar qurbani karna? (3:57) Qasaiyon ke gosht ka ijara? (4:56) Arafah ka roza rakhna kaisa hai aur kitne din rakhna hota hai? (7:00) Bemar janwar ki qurbani jaiz hai? (8:01) Janwar ghar late waqt ya zibah ke waqt maazur ho jaye to? (8:39) Taqatwar janwar, bhains ya bhainsay ki qurbani ka hukm? (16:07) Taqatwar janwar ko girane ke tareeqay (17:39) Qurbani ka mazaq urane walon ke liye paigham (17:57) Janwar zibah karte waqt kin baaton ka khayal rakhein? (18:17) Janwar zibah karne walay ka tauheed parast hona lazmi hai? (18:54) Aurat qurbani ka janwar zibah kar sakti hai? (19:10) Apna janwar khud zibah karna? (19:25) Qurbani ke gosht ko tol kar taqseem karna zaroori hai? (23:51) Qurbani ke hisson mein kaleji ya paaye mix karne ka tareeqa (25:19) Saray bhaiyon ka aik ghar mein qurbani ka hissa ho to? (27:00) Qarz le kar qurbani karna? (29:00) Wajib qurbani ki adaigi ka masla (30:09) Marhoomeen ki taraf se qurbani? (31:10) Haram aamdani walay ka qurbani mein shareek hona (32:54) Soodi bank mein job walay ki aamdani ka hukm (33:25) Insurance company ki job walay ki aamdani (33:39) Shirkia aqeeday walay ka qurbani mein shareek hona (34:34) Hairdressers ko qurbani mein shareek karna? (35:06) Qadiyani ko qurbani mein shamil kar liya to? (36:01) Zilhijja ka chand nazar aane ke baad nakhun aur darrhi katna? (36:31) Kisi rishtedar ki aamdani par shak ho to? (37:41) Tankhah-dar par qurbani wajib hai? (39:15) Gunjaish na ho to qarz le kar qurbani karna? (40:12) Hamila gaaye ko katna kaisa hai? (41:56) Qurbani ke janwaron ki trading (43:07) Hissay wali qurbani mein saray kharchay milana? (43:24) Apne hissay mein bhaiyon ke naam se qurbani? (45:20) Maldar parosi ko qurbani ka gosht dena? (45:44) Qurbani ke gosht ke 3 hissay karna? (46:17) Zibah wali chhuri par biwi ya walida ka haath pherwana? (47:24) Zibah ke baad janwar ko latkane ka faida (48:51) Gosht freeze karne se pehle hidayat (49:41) Jinko beef khana mana hai? (51:09) Na-mehram ki videos/pics ka kaam karne walon ke sath qurbani? (51:43) Police walon ke sath qurbani? (52:09) Qurbani ke janwaron ki pics banana? (52:40) Qurbani ke janwar ka cross karwana? (53:02) 2 bhaiyon ki mil kar qurbani? (53:34) Provident fund ke paison se qurbani? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

AI in the salon industry is moving fast, and most salon owners genuinely don't know where to start. My guest this week is Frank Westerbeke, co-owner of Gadabout and VerVe, a multi-generational salon group with six locations and nearly 300 staff in Tucson, Arizona. Frank's been using AI across his business for years, not just for Instagram captions, but for people management, financial analysis, team communication, and the client experience.What you'll hear in this conversation will make AI feel far less intimidating. Frank is not a tech person. He's a salon person. And the way he talks about AI, as a bridge, not a replacement, will shift how you think about it. IN THIS EPISODE:[00:00] Introduction: AI in the salon industry and what's at stake[01:04] Meet Frank Westerbeke, co-owner of Gadabout and VerVe[02:09] Running 6 salons and 300 staff, Frank's role as the human connector[04:14] How Frank uses AI voice on the drive to a salon before a tough conversation[06:44] Why Frank gave his managers permission to use AI and what changed[10:23] Turning managers into leaders with AI as the bridge[18:07] Why Frank's marketing team uses AI to enhance creativity, not replace it[22:45] The client experience: where AI helps and where the human must stay[27:00] Using AI to free up human connection in the salon[41:42] Frank's advice for salon owners who haven't started yetRATINGS + REVIEWS

What happens when two former party girls — both hairstylists, both moms, both done playing small — sit down and get real? You get this episode.Misty is joined by Kat, known as The Anti-Hairdresser, for one of those conversations that goes absolutely everywhere — and somehow lands exactly where it needs to. Kat is a UK-based color technician, educator, and social media coach for hairdresser moms who have been in the industry for 20+ years. She's also 16 months sober, neurodivergent, and completely done pretending to be anyone other than herself.In this episode, Misty and Kat talk about:Letting go of your party girl identity — and why it's harder than it soundsSobriety as a stylist and the mirror it holds up to the people around youBeing a neurodivergent mom in an industry that wasn't built for youRebuilding your clientele after it gets ripped away (and hitting 10K in a single month doing it)Why niching down doesn't mean limiting yourself — it means finally talking to YOUR personFiring clients, setting pricing boundaries, and why saying no is actually a superpowerThe connection between self-care, emotional regulation, and showing up better behind the chairGoing back to your inner child to figure out who you actually are This one gets raw, gets funny, and gets honest about what it really takes to build a life and a business you're proud of — without losing yourself in the process.hairstylist personal development podcast, salon owner burnout, beauty industry podcast for stylists, hairstylist business growth

We often think of influencers as being media celebrities, politicians, or people in the media, and that mental health care needs to be done by psychologists and counsellors. But new research suggests that people in your community who you have regular ongoing trusted and personal relationships with could also play a big role. Recent research looking at how hairdressers could influence people's views and actions around climate change found that hairdressers were often already talking with clients about climate change and how to influence this. By introducing a few simple prompts —e.g. stickers on the mirrors, hairdressers commenting on their own initiatives to reduce water and recycle— conversations on the topic increased and clients reported they were more likely to take similar actions, both about their haircare and other things at home such as energy use. This research built on earlier studies which had looked at the effect barbers could have on the mental health of their clients, particularly for groups who typically don't engage well with traditional mental health services (e.g. young men). With some training, barbers were able to monitor their client's mental health, provide emotional support, and give some basic advice about where to go for help. In both these areas there were some key things that are thought to help: Hairdressers and barbers often have regular ongoing relationships with clients, allowing them to regularly check-in with them. There is often a warm and trusting relationship between the barber and their clients – we know from other psychology research that this type of relationship is central to any type of therapy going well. Hairdressers and barbers are often seen by the public as cool and influential. They have some status within their communities where people look up to them – particularly true for barbers in places like Black communities in the USA. However, we do need to be careful, particularly in looking after barbers who might be providing mental health support. We want to make sure they are well equipped and have their own support, so they don't feel unduly burdened by caring for people's mental health problems as well as their hair. Innovative solutions like these might really help in nudging people towards making changes in their lives, either around climate change or mental health, and could be an efficient way to roll out widescale changes in health and wellbeing. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How you pay your salon team is one of the most confusing decisions you'll make as a salon owner. Salon owners often compare pay structures with other salons, copying what seems to be working elsewhere.But the real problem isn't which pay system you're using. It's that most salon owners have never stopped to ask what a good pay system actually needs to do.In this episode, I cut through the noise around salon pay structures and explain why there is no universal right answer. Instead, I walk through the fundamentals of salon pay structures and why understanding your own numbers matters far more than benchmarking against the salon down the road.By the end of this episode, you'll have a clear framework for evaluating your own pay structure, a benchmark worth knowing when it comes to employee costs, and a clearer understanding of whether your pay structure is working for the business or against it.WHAT YOU'LL LEARNWhy copying another salon's pay structure without understanding your own numbers is a recipe for financial stressThe one test that tells you instantly if your pay system is brokenWhy staff retention problems aren't always about money, and what actually drives people to leaveThe 40% benchmark for employee costs, what it means, and when exceptions applyHow to build a pay structure that is simple, transparent, and trusted by your whole teamIN THIS EPISODE:[00:00] Introduction: The question every salon owner worries about[00:26] Why salon pay is one of the biggest sources of confusion in the industry[01:00] The dangerous myth of a perfect universal pay system[01:32] Who this episode is and isn't for: employed income-producing staff only[02:07] The seminar exercise that reveals how different every salon's system really is[03:02] When your pay structure is so complicated nobody else can understand it[03:58] Why salon owners get themselves into legal trouble with pay[05:00] Your responsibility as the business owner to know the law where you operate[06:00] The five things every salon pay system must achieve[08:00] Why profit isn't optional[11:31] Why your payroll decisions can't be made in isolation from the rest of the business[12:22] The 40% benchmark and what happens when payroll climbs beyond it[14:00] Recap: what a good pay system actually looks like and where to get more helpRESOURCES MENTIONEDThe Money Course - the online course covering pricing, wages, profitability and salon financial benchmarks – Find out moreWant MORE to help you GROW?

Donal brings his daily statistic to the show. Today it was all about the awkward, embarrasing, and random things that happen when getting our haircut.

Most salon owners don't have a money problem, they have a ‘lack of understanding' problem. You can be fully booked, your team can be flat out, and yet you can still be running at a loss without realising it. That's what happens when you're managing your business without awareness of a few key numbers. On today's podcast, I'm walking you through the five numbers that, in my experience, determine whether a salon owner feels in control of their finances or is controlled by them.These aren't complicated. You don't need to love spreadsheets or become an accountant. But knowing these five numbers changes the way you make decisions, and the decisions you make determine the business you build. If last week's episode resonated with you, this one is the practical follow-up you've been waiting for.WHAT YOU'LL LEARN:Why your salon can be fully booked and still be running at a loss and the one number that highlights the reality.What net profit margin actually means and why checking it once a year with your accountant is already too lateWhy copying a competitor's pricing could mean your services are running at a loss.How a 13-week rolling cashflow forecast removes the financial anxiety that hits every time something unexpected goes wrongWhy these five numbers are all connected and what pulling on one thread does to the restIN THIS EPISODE:[00:00] Introduction: The salon that looks busy but can't explain the numbers[00:26] Why this episode follows directly from last week's[00:44] The real reason salon owners feel financial fog[01:19] Why gut feel is not a strategy for running your finances[01:42] Number one: your breakeven point and why it matters most[02:52] You can be fully booked and still be running at a loss[03:47] Number two: net profit margin and what it actually measures[04:55] The story of Clarissa: from 2.5% to 8.4% profit margin[06:16] Number three: staff costs as a percentage of total revenue[08:11] Number four: which services on your menu are actually profitable[09:56] Number five: understanding your cashflow over the next 13 weeks[11:53] Billy's story: from breaking even to £80k profit[12:08] How all five numbers connect to each other[13:39] The free 10-question salon financial reality check[13:57] Free live masterclass: Where Does All the Money Go?Want MORE to help you GROW?➡️ 10 Question Salon Financial Reality Check – A free 60-second quiz to identify exactly where your financial knowledge gaps are – Find out more➡️ Free Live Masterclass: Where Does All the Money Go? – Monday 11th May, one hour, completely free – deeper than this episode and the logical next step if this resonated – Register hereRECOMMENDED NEXT EPISODEIf you enjoyed this episode, you'll also like: Episode 345: Where Does All the Money Go? The 10-Part Financial Framework for Salon Owners Listen here RATINGS + REVIEWS

In our final installment of Profession Confessions, we speak with Hairdresser X who tells us why she'll never shave another man bald, the juiciest gossip she's overheard on the job ...AND... what Pooja's been doing wrong.

Hopefully your salon is busy, clients are coming through the door, and money is being taken at the till every day, so if that's the case, then why is salon financial management still such a struggle? This is the reality for a lot of salon owners: the numbers just don't add up, and the stress that comes with that is real. In this episode, I walk you through a 10-part framework for following the money trail in your business. This isn't a finance lesson, and it's not about spreadsheets. It's a practical way of thinking about your business that gives you clarity and control, because right now, with costs up and clients spreading out their appointments, you can't afford to keep guessing.IN THIS EPISODE:The difference between knowing your numbers and understanding your business in real timeWhy budgets aren't about restriction,  they're the single most important tool for weekly profitabilityWhat cashflow forecasting actually looks like and why a 13-week rolling forecast changes everythingHow to think about productivity-based pay so your team's performance is tied to the salon's financial healthEPISODE TIMESTAMPS[00:00] Introduction: The reality of a busy salon that still isn't profitable[00:50] Why the financial picture behind the scenes rarely matches the front[01:14] This isn't about how hard you work, it's about structure[01:38] The biggest misconception: thinking someone else is watching the numbers[02:22] Why understanding your finances is your job, not your accountant's[03:10] What following the money trail actually means in practice[03:53] Introducing the 10-part financial framework for salon owners[06:47] Why budgets matter more than most salon owners want to admit[08:07] Cashflow forecasting and why 13 weeks ahead changes everything[09:32] Pricing for profit and why "charge your worth" isn't a strategy[10:47] Recap: how many of the 10 points are you actually doing?[13:01] The free webinar: Where Does All the Money Go?RESOURCES MENTIONEDWhere Does All the Money Go? (Free Webinar) Antony breaks down the 10-part framework in full and shows you how to apply it practically in your salon - Register hereWant MORE to help you GROW?

PJ hears that Cork's latest bridge was named after someone with antisemitic tendencies, chats with Valerie from Ikon who won the "hairdressing Oscars", asks for tips on great picnic locations. And more... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Salon profitability is under more pressure than it has been in years, and the hard reality is that being busy isn't the same as being profitable. In this episode, I get into the financial fundamentals that too many salon owners avoid, because understanding your numbers is the only way to get in front of the problem before it becomes a crisis.By the end of this episode, you'll know exactly where to look in your business to find the leaks, whether you have a pricing problem or a productivity problem, and what your real options are for increasing profit margins. This isn't about cutting everything to the bone. It's about making smarter decisions with the facts in front of you.IN THIS EPISODE:Why being fully booked doesn't mean your salon is profitable, and what that means for your business right nowHow to use your profit and loss report to separate the facts from the feelings and make better financial decisionsThe difference between a pricing problem and a productivity problem, and which one your salon actually hasThe three ways to increase salon income, and which one delivers results the fastestEPISODE TIMESTAMPS:[00:00] Introduction: Why salon profit margins are under pressure right now [00:27] The things you can control when times are tough [02:07] Why competitive pricing creates a crunch point for salon owners [03:04] How to use your profit and loss report correctly [04:29] What the numbers in a typical salon P&L actually look like [05:42] Pricing problems vs productivity problems: knowing which one you have [06:21] How to approach cutting costs without losing what matters [08:05] Why the miscellaneous line in your P&L deserves more attention [09:22] The three ways to increase your salon income [11:44] Why a price rise is the fastest lever available to you [12:38] Which services are actually profitable when you look at the real margins [13:25] Using technology and AI to create efficiencies in your business [14:16] Recap and your next action stepRATINGS + REVIEWS

Sean joins Neil to talk about workplace bullying when he returned to work in Spain.

In this weeks episode we go behind the scenes of hair colour innovation in a podcast partnership with Wella Professionals UKI. We're joined by James Earnshaw (Global Wella Professionals Ambassador) and Jordanna Cobella (award-winning salon owner and Wella Colour and Trends Ambassador) and together they'll be breaking down what really happens when hairdressers help shape professional hair products. They'll be talking BlondorPlex developments, Ultimate Colour, and the real-world feedback that changes formulas, speeds up services, and improves consistency behind the chair. You'll hear how to translate “new tech” into simple client language, protect your results between visits, and position professional products without awkward selling. If you want stronger blonding outcomes, cleaner toning workflows, and a smarter way to explain fade, maintenance, and pricing—this episode is packed with practical takeaways you can use in the salon straight away. Hit play and enjoy!     Chapters 3:08: Behind the Scenes with Wella Professionals 3:16: Insights from R&D Development 6:32: Collaboration for Product Innovation 9:38: Creating Unique Toner Shades 18:45: Bridging Science and Hairdressing 21:42: The Importance of Client Communication 22:54: Packaging and Pricing Strategies 25:25: Understanding Color Longevity 28:29: The Evolution of Hairdressing Careers     Resources from todays episode: FOR MORE ON BLONDORPLEX CLICK HERE FOR MORE ON ULTIMATE COLOR CLICK HERE VISIT WELLA STORE HERE WELLA EDUCATION CLICK HERE CONNECT WITH WELLA PROFESSIONALS UKI ON INSTAGRAM @WELLAPROFESSIONALSUKI FOLLOW WELLA PROFESSIONALS UKI ON TIKTOK @HOUSEOFWELLAUKI WATCH THE PODCAST INTERVIEW ON YOUTUBE HERE @HOWTOCUTIT CONNECT WITH HOW TO CUT IT ON INSTAGRAM @HOWTOCUTIT FOLLOW HOW TO CUT IT ON TIKTOK @HOWTOCUTIT      

Running a successful salon for nearly 40 years in one of the most competitive cities on the planet takes more than talent. It takes the willingness to keep evolving your model, your mindset, and even the words you use with your team. My guest today, Scott Buchanan of the Manhattan-based Scott J Salons, has done exactly that. With around 90 employees across two locations, Scott's story is one of grit, reinvention, and a business built around culture and community.In this conversation, we get into the real numbers behind a thriving employee-based salon, why he treats his team as partners rather than employees, and what it actually takes to keep an employee-based salon competitive in today's market. If you want to build a business that still works 40 years from now, this is the episode to listen to.✅ Why calling your team "partners" changes the way they show up every day✅ The KPIs Scott tracks obsessively and why guest count matters more than top-line revenue✅ How Scott uses "wellness check-ins" instead of performance reviews to drive better results✅ How Scott thinks about AI, retail, and the future of the salon experience in the next five to ten years✅ The one piece of advice from a 40-year career that every salon owner needs to hearIN THIS EPISODE:[00:00] Introduction: 40 years in Manhattan and what longevity really takes[00:50] Scott's current business: two locations, 93 staff, and a long road to get here[03:29] Is the age of the big salon over? Scott's honest take on boutique vs. large[05:37] Why Scott considers his team partners, not employees[07:18] Wellness check-ins: reframing performance reviews to drive real change[10:25] How to keep an employee-based team in the age of salon suites[13:55] The blowout story: why you have to be there when the client wants to be there[20:11] How Scott is using AI now and where he sees the salon industry heading[27:33] The key numbers Scott watches most closely, and what they reveal[37:07] Intercoiffure America/Canada: building a community for employee-based salon owners[43:57] Scott's one piece of advice for lasting 40 years in this industryWant MORE to help you GROW?

Welcome to Part 1 of a two-part series where I'm joined by Alex Walker—a Torquay-based haircutting specialist, educator and the founder of AW Hair and Alex Walker Education. We recorded this episode inside Alex's purpose-built education studio in Torquay, Devon (UK)—a dedicated space away from the salon where hairdressers can learn through in-person sessions, small groups, and online education, while staying connected to real, commercial salon work. Alex's journey began at 17, when he fell into hairdressing almost by accident. What started as a job became a craft. He went all-in on haircutting—especially short hair—with a mission to raise standards and help hairdressers understand the why behind what they do. We dig into the realities of ambition, rapid growth, and salon ownership—and the moment everything changed. After his businesses went into liquidation, Alex was left asking: “I haven't got five days' worth of clients… what am I gonna do now?” This is a powerful conversation on resilience, rebuilding, and staying commercially relevant.     Chapters: 11:11: The Journey of Self-Belief 21:27: Transitioning from Hairdresser to Salon Owner 22:54: The Hard Lessons of Business 27:55: The Shift to Education 32:34: Financial Insights and Stability 38:30: Balancing Family and Career Dreams     Resources from todays episode: Join the waitlist for Spotd HERE Follow Spotd on Instagram @getspotdapp Alex Walker Salon CLICK HERE  Connect with Alex on Instagram @alexwalkereducation Alex Walker online haircutting education HERE For everything else Alex Walker CLICK HERE View our video podcast with Alex Walker on YouTube @howtocutit Connect with How To Cut It on Instagram @howtocutit  

About Us — Food Safety TalkAbout — Risky or Not?pizza - Risky or Not?Food Safety Talk 85: I'm the jerky police — Food Safety TalkOutbreak Investigation of Infant Botulism: Infant Formula (November 2025) | FDAPruno - WikipediaArchive: National Advisory Committee on Microbiological Criteria for Foods (NACMCF) | Food Safety and Inspection ServicePresence of soil-dwelling clostridia in commercial powdered infant formulas - PubMedOutbreak Investigation of Listeria monocytogenes: Prepared Pasta Meals (June 2025) | FDAInvestigation Update: Listeria Outbreak, Supplement Shakes, February 2025 | Listeria Infection | CDCMoonlight Companies Voluntarily Recalls California-Grown Conventional Yellow and White Peaches Because of Possible Health Risk- Revised to Clarify Upc Codes; This Recall Has Not Been Expanded | FDAForeign Food Safety Inspections Hit Historic Low After Trump Cuts — ProPublicaCFIA monitoring U.S. move away from science-based decision making, documents show - The Globe and MailReview of the Boar's Head Listeria monocytogenes Outbreak - January 2025 | Food Safety and Inspection ServiceCooling Uncovered Foods at a Depth of ∼5.1 cm (2 in.) or Less Poses Little Risk of Pathogen Growth - PubMedrice - Risky or Not?Handwashing: Cool Water as Effective as Hot for Removing Germs | Rutgers UniversityADSquarespace — Squarespace makes marketing, customer management, and checkout effortless.

What is a day in the life of a content creator like? How do you balance your responsibilities as a creator with your work as a stylist behind the chair? And what does it take to amass a significant following on social media in the hair salon industry?  Our guest this episode is Alejandro Lopez, an incredibly talented stylist based in Orlando, Florida, with over 870K followers on Tiktok and 670K on Instagram as of April 2026.   Alejandro chats with Blake about his background in braiding, how he transitioned to vivid color work, and what his daily life is like as both a stylist behind the chair and content creator. LEARN MORE Follow Alejandro on Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube @artistic.aestheticss. This episode was produced by Erica Furgiuele. It was originally published in September 2024.  Get in touch with Summit and let us know what you think of the podcast or what topics you'd like us to cover next.     Follow Summit Salon Business Center on Instagram @SummitSalon, and on TikTok at SummitSalon. SUMM IT UP is now on YouTube! Watch extended cuts of our interviews at www.youtube.com/@summitunlockedFind host Blake Reed Evans on Instagram @BlakeReedEvans and on TikTok at blakereedevans. His DM's are always open! You can email Blake at bevans@summitsalon.com. Visit us at SummitSalon.com to connect with others in the industry. SUMM IT UP is produced and edited by Andrea Muraskin. The executive producer is Tim Fisk.

Training a salon manager is one of the things salon owners often get wrong, and most don't realise it until they've already hired the wrong person, put them on payroll, but still end up doing everything themselves. In this episode, I share a five-step framework for getting it right, from figuring out whether your business can actually support a manager right now, to the mindset shift that changes everything about how you lead.By the end of this episode, you'll know exactly what to define before you hand anything over, why hiring another version of yourself backfires, and how to release control in a way that builds real capability over time. Done right, a great manager doesn't take things away from you. They give you your life back.WHAT YOU'LL LEARN:The two pillars that underpin good management, and why most people are usually only good at oneWhy you need to consider the size of your business before you hire anyone into a management roleThe case against hiring a mini you and what to look for insteadHow to train for outcomes, not just tasks, so your manager can think, not just tick boxesThe "let the leash out slowly" approach to handing over control without chaosWhy getting it out of your head and onto paper is the non-negotiable first stepEPISODE TIMESTAMPS[00:00] Introduction: The challenge of training a salon manager[00:30] Why hiring a manager isn't as simple as it sounds[01:19] The real question: how do you let go without losing control?[01:45] The two pillars of management: people skills vs systems[03:18] Why most salon owners lean heavily to one side[04:11] The moment you realise you need help[05:04] The fear of hiring and trusting a manager[06:00] The two biggest obstacles: no systems and financial pressure[06:40] Why most salons can't afford a non-producing manager[07:18] Delegating vs dumping chaos[14:49] Recap of the 5-step framework[15:41] Why a great manager gives you back your life[16:04] How to get helpRESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

The economics of running a salon have changed, and if your approach to training assistants hasn't changed with it, your margins are going to keep shrinking. In this episode, I answer the questions salon owners are actually grappling with right now: Is it still worth taking on apprentices, how quickly should they be contributing, and what does it look like when a salon actually gets training right?If you've been winging it or leaving it to chance, this episode gives you a clear framework and five practical takeaways you can act on straight away.IN THIS EPISODE:Why condensing the apprenticeship timeline isn't lowering standards, it's a financial necessityThe difference between income-producing and non-income-producing staff and why it mattersHow quickly a new assistant should be contributing to your salon revenue (and what to do if they're not)Why most salons' training problems are self-inflicted, and what good training ownership actually looks likeFive clear takeaways for building a structured, productive assistant pathway in your salonEPISODE TIMESTAMPS[00:00] Introduction[00:28] Can you condense a two-year apprenticeship without lowering standards?[01:21] How assistants contribute to revenue[02:41] Income-producing vs. non-income-producing staff[04:37] The shift required to make apprenticeships viable[05:40] A brief history of apprenticeships[09:00] Are employment-based salons restructuring the assistant pathway?[11:27] What the best salons are doing differently[12:33] Five takeaways for salon ownersWant MORE to help you GROW?

If you were to google 'how to be more sustainable' you would get a slew of posts sharing 'ten top things to do to cut your carbon footprint' or similar.Very few (if any) mention the huge potential influence that we can all have, by sharing the things that we're doing, talking to other people, voting etc etc.Which is why when I first came across a paper called 'Choices for climate action: a review of the multiple roles individuals play', and it included these very things, I was super excited, and promptly used it as a framework for diving into climate action in my Carbon Literacy courses.I was delighted to be able to dive into this in more detail with one of the paper's authors, Dr Sam Hampton, who is an academic at not one, but two universities, Bath and Oxford! We discuss not only the paper I mention above, but a new paper that has just been published about the role of hairdressers as 'everyday influencers' - a phrase I absolutely love! We are ALL everyday influencers, and our choices matter and shape the decisions of those around us. I find this hugely empowering, and I hope you do too!Sam Hampton LISTEN... USEFUL LINKS:Sam Hampton- Website- Linked InChoices for climate action: a review of the multiple roles individuals play[188] - Money, money, money with Lisa Stanley-MannHousehold contributions to global greenhouse gas emissions- This paper says 60%- This paper says 72%Katharine Hayhoe- Saving Us (book)- Katharine on the Sustainababble podcast- TED talkGlobally representative evidence on the actual and perceived support for climate actionExperimental evidence for tipping points in social convention[118] - A beginners guide to COP26 (I reference this episode with Laura on the podcast)Hairdressers as 'everyday influencers' on climate change and sustainability Green Salon Collective[154] - Leading by example, does it work? With Steve WestlakeGreen and Healthy Frome[185] - Is it all b*llocks?Outrage and Optimism podcast episode with Lorraine WhitmarshIpsos Perils of perception studyOxford University Climate Leadership Research CentreLarger Us - Lets Talk Climate projectSustainable(ish) Clubhouse - doors opening again soon!Carbon Literacy- Carbon Literacy with me!Pie chart showing the six domains for individual action on climate change I'd love to hear your thoughts on 'everyday influencers' , and if this episode has helped you to think more broadly about the impact we can all have.Let me know!

If you were to google 'how to be more sustainable' you would get a slew of posts sharing 'ten top things to do to cut your carbon footprint' or similar.Very few (if any) mention the huge potential influence that we can all have, by sharing the things that we're doing, talking to other people, voting etc etc.Which is why when I first came across a paper called 'Choices for climate action: a review of the multiple roles individuals play', and it included these very things, I was super excited, and promptly used it as a framework for diving into climate action in my Carbon Literacy courses.I was delighted to be able to dive into this in more detail with one of the paper's authors, Dr Sam Hampton, who is an academic at not one, but two universities, Bath and Oxford! We discuss not only the paper I mention above, but a new paper that has just been published about the role of hairdressers as 'everyday influencers' - a phrase I absolutely love! We are ALL everyday influencers, and our choices matter and shape the decisions of those around us. I find this hugely empowering, and I hope you do too!Sam Hampton LISTEN... USEFUL LINKS:Sam Hampton- Website- Linked InChoices for climate action: a review of the multiple roles individuals play[188] - Money, money, money with Lisa Stanley-MannHousehold contributions to global greenhouse gas emissions- This paper says 60%- This paper says 72%Katharine Hayhoe- Saving Us (book)- Katharine on the Sustainababble podcast- TED talkGlobally representative evidence on the actual and perceived support for climate actionExperimental evidence for tipping points in social convention[118] - A beginners guide to COP26 (I reference this episode with Laura on the podcast)Hairdressers as 'everyday influencers' on climate change and sustainability Green Salon Collective[154] - Leading by example, does it work? With Steve WestlakeGreen and Healthy Frome[185] - Is it all b*llocks?Outrage and Optimism podcast episode with Lorraine WhitmarshIpsos Perils of perception studyOxford University Climate Leadership Research CentreLarger Us - Lets Talk Climate projectSustainable(ish) Clubhouse - doors opening again soon!Carbon Literacy- Carbon Literacy with me!Pie chart showing the six domains for individual action on climate change I'd love to hear your thoughts on 'everyday influencers' , and if this episode has helped you to think more broadly about the impact we can all have.Let me know!

The three mustaches stock up on hairspray for a trip into the sordid underbelly of professional hairstylists. After spending 30 years clawing his way to the top of his industry, Fabio Sementilli was living the dream. He had a beautiful wife, a beautiful home, and a loving family that adored him. But that all came crashing down when the beloved celebrity hairdresser was brutally murdered in what appeared to be a botched home invasion. But, was he targeted at random, or did the intruders have more on their minds than making a quick buck?Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Most salon owners believe their biggest problem is not getting enough new clients, but what if that's not true? In this episode, I break down why focusing on client attraction alone is keeping you stuck, and what's really stopping your salon from growing consistently.I share the simple (but often overlooked) three-part marketing formula that every high-performing salon is built on. The reality is, most salons are already getting enough new clients, but they're losing them just as quickly. And that's where the real problem lies.If you're tired of constantly chasing new clients and want to build a salon business that grows predictably, with loyal clients who keep coming back, then this episode will shift how you think about marketing forever.IN THIS EPISODE:[00:25] What do you picture when you think of a million-dollar salon?[01:02] Why high-performing salons are simpler than you think[02:00] Why understanding the real problem matters before you hear the formula[03:06] The retention numbers that should stop you in your tracks[04:53] The three-part marketing formula[05:44] Where most salons drop the ball [07:59] Why the three pieces must work together, not in isolation[11:03] What million-dollar salons do differently[11:28] The importance of tracking your numbers[12:25] Industry benchmarks and what to aim for[12:53] Why you need to run retention reports by individual stylist[14:01] The marketing course, what's inside and how to join[17:06] Wrapping up, the formula, the course, and see you next weekRESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

In this episode, Anna Manukyan, Certified Financial Educator and founder of Beauty Finance Group and Beautiful Wealth, breaks down why many hairdressers struggle to build long-term wealth even when they're earning good money. She explains how mindset, habits, and financial literacy gaps keep people stuck and what it actually takes to change that.Follow/subscribe to be the first to know when new episodes are released. Like what you hear? Leave us a review!Key Takeaways:

The difference between a good salon and a world-class one isn't talent. It's standards, and the leadership to hold them.In this episode, I take inspiration from the Netflix series Being Gordon Ramsay and unpack what it really takes to build a world-class business, whether that's a restaurant or a salon. Because when you strip it back, the fundamentals are the same. It's not about talent alone. It's about standards, leadership, and the culture you create.I talk about the obsession with detail that separates good from exceptional, why leadership isn't always comfortable (but it is necessary), and how the best teams operate as a unit, not a group of individuals. These are practical insights you can apply immediately in your salon.IN THIS EPISODE:[00:00] Introduction and why this matters for salon owners[00:48] Lessons from The Bear and restaurant culture[02:21] Why Being Gordon Ramsay is worth watching[04:00] The 3 pillars: standards, leadership, and pride[04:31] Why standards, not talent, drive excellence[06:30] The power of attention to detail[07:40] Leadership, clarity, and responsibility[08:44] Finding the breaking points in your business[10:12] Respect for craft and raising standards[12:12] From employees to custodians of the brand[13:35] The big question: what are you building?WANT MORE TO HELP YOU GROW?

Hairdressers have never had more tools to market themselves… yet so many stylists are still struggling to fill their chairs.In this episode, Cyd and David unpack the real truth about salon marketing today. Social media has become the go-to strategy for many stylists, but chasing followers, likes, and viral moments doesn't always translate into actual paying clients. While online marketing is powerful, it's only one piece of the puzzle.They talk about the marketing method many stylists have forgotten: building real relationships in the real world. From word-of-mouth referrals to becoming known in your local community, the most reliable clients—the ones who come back again and again—are often built through connection, conversation, and confidence outside of a screen.Cyd shares how some of her strongest clientele came from relationship-driven referrals that eventually turned into entire friend groups booking together. David reflects on how many stylists today feel uncomfortable promoting themselves in person and how hiding behind social media can slowly erode real-world confidence.This conversation is all about finding the balance between modern digital marketing and timeless relationship building—because the most successful salons aren't choosing one or the other.They also introduce David's upcoming class Bread & Butter, a live workshop designed to teach hairdressers simple, modern strategies for building a loyal clientele using both online and offline marketing.The class costs less than a loaf of bread and a stick of butter and focuses on practical strategies you can start using immediately to grow your clientele and your income.If you're ready to stop chasing likes and start building real clients, you can learn more and save your seat here:https://www.destroythehairdresser.com/bread-butter-2026

Instagram marketing for salons is constantly evolving, and if you're relying on strategies from even a year ago, there are changes you need to know about. In this episode, I'm joined once again by Instagram specialist Hayley Mears to unpack what's working on Instagram right now and what salon owners need to be doing differently in 2026.We dive into the simple three-step structure that every successful Instagram carousel needs, why hooks are more important than ever, and how to create content that people actually save and share. Because, as you'll hear, the algorithm has shifted and likes are no longer the metric that matters the most.We also talk about AI, why hashtags are becoming increasingly irrelevant, and how salon owners can use Instagram to amplify the one thing technology can't replace, the human experience. This episode is packed with practical ideas you can start using straight away.IN THIS EPISODE YOU'LL LEARN:✅ The 3-step structure every successful Instagram carousel needs✅ Why hooks are critical to getting people to swipe✅ Why the algorithm now values saves and shares over likes✅ Whether hashtags are becoming irrelevant✅ How to use AI without losing your authentic voice✅ Three practical Instagram strategies for salon owners in 2026EPISODE TIMESTAMPS:[00:05] Introduction to the episode and what listeners can expect[00:47] Introducing Instagram specialist Hayley Mears[02:00] The 3-step structure every successful Instagram carousel needs[04:49] Why writing a strong hook is the hardest part of a carousel[07:46] Calls to action that actually work on Instagram[11:33] Using AI for captions without losing your authentic voice[14:47] Why Instagram now rewards saves and shares over likes[21:42] Why Instagram is showing more content to non-followers[23:07] Are hashtags becoming irrelevant?[27:00] Three actionable Instagram strategies for salon owners in 2026RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:Join us on our upcoming free Salon Marketing Masterclass on 16th & 17th March. From Random Tactics to Fully Booked: How to Create a Salon Marketing System That Gets Clients In and Keeps Them Coming Back. SAVE YOUR SEAT 

Use Code DWKT at https://HungryRoot.com/DWKT and get 40% off your first box!Shop at https://REVOLVE.com/DWKT and use code DWKT for 15% off your first order. #REVOLVEpartnerIn today's episode, the girlies break down yet another hair stylist vs client drama - this time because of the hair stylist somehow using a bleach when the client was getting extensions and needed her hair DARKER in order to match them. Then we pivot to the strangest fever dream we've experienced in a while aka a Shake It Up (yes, the Disney show) themed wedding that has gone massively viral on TikTok and had people questioning their sanity. We Love the Internets:https://www.instagram.com/quiandk/reel/DVXVvKGCXuD/ https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZP8Qy9EDC/00:00 - Introduction1:24 - Accidental Bleaching!?36:39 - Shake It Up Themed Wedding1:07:01 - We Love the InternetWe hope you enjoyed this episode! Please let us know on Twitter or Instagram if you have any topic suggestions for a future episode! (@lily_marston & @jessismiles__)PS. The girlies have officially entered their short form content era! Follow our official accounts: https://instagram.com/doweknowthempodcast & https://tiktok.com/@doweknowthempodcastBusiness Inquiries: doweknowthempodcast@gmail.comDo We Know Them PodcastHosted by Lily Marston & Jessi Smiles

In this solo episode of Destroy the Hairdresser, Cyd takes the mic to talk directly to salon owners about one of the biggest frustrations in the industry: hiring.Every week she hears the same thing in coaching calls:“I can't find good stylists.”“No one wants to work anymore.”“Everyone just wants to rent a suite.”But what if hiring isn't actually the problem?In this episode, Cyd breaks down why recruiting feels harder than ever and why the constant “we're hiring” posts on Instagram aren't bringing in the right people. She explains how many commission salons were built by copying outdated structures instead of intentionally designing a system that attracts talent.You'll hear about:Why hiring has become so emotionally exhausting for salon ownersThe cycle of hiring, training, and losing stylistsWhy “we're hiring” graphics actually repel great talentHow desperation shows up in recruitingWhy profitability and structure determine whether stylists want to work for youIf you're a salon owner feeling stuck in the hiring hamster wheel, this episode will challenge the way you think about recruiting and leadership.Because the real issue isn't finding stylists.It's building a salon that great stylists actually want to join.JOIN THE NEW COMMISSION SALON HERE: https://www.destroythehairdresser.com/the-new-commission-salon-2026

Most salon owners think they have a marketing problem. In reality, what they usually have is a clarity problem, a positioning problem, and a consistency problem. And until those things are fixed, no amount of posting, boosting, or discounting is going to change the outcome.In this episode, I break down what marketing actually is, not the social media version, not the trend-driven version, but the strategic version that builds predictable growth. I talk about the difference between image building and business building, the four layers of effective marketing, and why so many salons are stuck in a cycle of reactive tactics.If you're tired of unpredictable bookings, blaming the algorithm, or hoping things will “pick up soon,” then this episode will give you a framework to think differently and more strategically about marketing your salon.IN THIS EPISODE:[00:00] Introduction and why most salon owners misunderstand marketing[00:00:49] The real problem: clarity, strategy and consistency[00:03:10] Activity vs strategy: why busy doesn't mean effective[00:03:10] Image building vs business building marketing[00:04:44] What marketing actually is[00:05:00] The four layers of marketing explained[00:05:25] Layer 1: Clarity - knowing your ideal client[00:05:50] Layer 2: Positioning - why clients should choose you[00:06:41] Layer 3: Visibility - and why most skip the foundations[00:07:30] Layer 4: Client conversion - where money is often lost[00:07:55] The real cost of weak marketing[00:08:39] Why unstable revenue damages culture and productivity[00:09:00] What good marketing actually feels like[00:10:14] The industry-wide marketing framework problem[00:10:37] Invitation to the free marketing training[00:11:19] Why predictable growth requires predictable marketingWant MORE to help you GROW?

In this Episode of the Hair Game Podcast, @itsjodiebrown, shares her journey from being a hairdresser to becoming a global marketing educator in the beauty industry. She discusses the evolution of her podcasting journey, the challenges faced by beauty professionals in marketing, and the importance of having a strong online presence. Jodie emphasizes the significance of Google Business listings and strategic content creation while also highlighting the unique experiences offered through her retreats in Italy. Throughout the conversation, she provides valuable insights and advice for beauty professionals looking to enhance their marketing strategies and grow their businesses.  Key Topics: • The Journey from Hairdresser to Educator • Transitioning to Marketing and Social Media • Facing challenges in the Beauty Industry • The Impact of COVID-19 on Career Choices • The importance of Having an Online Presence • The Retreat Experience in Italy • Future Trends in Marketing for Beauty Professionals   Video versions of our episodes are on our YouTube channel for you to watch!  https://youtu.be/2aCgAutjW0w Subscribe to our channel The Hair Game on YouTube and check out 'The Hair Game Podcast' playlist Our podcast thrives on the opinions of you, the listener... if you have a moment (and you are an Apple user), please leave us a rating & review on the Apple podcasts app or iTunes!  Here's what you do: Scroll down to 'Ratings & Reviews' Click on the empty purple stars (5 is the best)! Click on 'Write a Review' and let us know what you love most! Each rating & review helps us reach more and more of your fellow hair loves, and our goal is to help as many hairdressers as we can find success. Thanks in advance! FOLLOW US @thehairgamepodcast @salonrepublic @loveerictaylor

In this Episode of the Hair Game Podcast, @itsjodiebrown, shares her journey from being a hairdresser to becoming a global marketing educator in the beauty industry. She discusses the evolution of her podcasting journey, the challenges faced by beauty professionals in marketing, and the importance of having a strong online presence. Jodie emphasizes the significance of Google Business listings and strategic content creation while also highlighting the unique experiences offered through her retreats in Italy. Throughout the conversation, she provides valuable insights and advice for beauty professionals looking to enhance their marketing strategies and grow their businesses.    Key Topics: • The Journey from Hairdresser to Educator • Transitioning to Marketing and Social Media • Facing challenges in the Beauty Industry • The Impact of COVID-19 on Career Choices • The importance of Having an Online Presence • The Retreat Experience in Italy • Future Trends in Marketing for Beauty Professionals   Video versions of our episodes are on our YouTube channel for you to watch!  https://youtu.be/2aCgAutjW0w Subscribe to our channel The Hair Game on YouTube and check out 'The Hair Game Podcast' playlist Our podcast thrives on the opinions of you, the listener... if you have a moment (and you are an Apple user), please leave us a rating & review on the Apple podcasts app or iTunes!  Here's what you do: Scroll down to 'Ratings & Reviews' Click on the empty purple stars (5 is the best)! Click on 'Write a Review' and let us know what you love most! Each rating & review helps us reach more and more of your fellow hair loves, and our goal is to help as many hairdressers as we can find success. Thanks in advance! FOLLOW US @thehairgamepodcast @salonrepublic @loveerictaylor

In this episode, Gerard Scarpaci, Co-Founder of Hairbrained, breaks down the Hairdresser Confidence Index and what the latest data reveals about job satisfaction, confidence, investment behavior, and why so many stylists describe their work with one word: overwhelmed.This conversation goes beyond surface metrics like retail and ticket averages to uncover what's happening below the waterline — and why salon owners who understand the emotional drivers behind performance will build stronger, more stable teams in 2026 and beyond.Follow/subscribe to be the first to know when new episodes are released. Like what you hear? Leave us a review!Key Takeaways:

AI is changing Google search faster than most salon owners realise, and whether you like it or not, it's going to impact your business. In this episode, I'm joined by returning guest Phil Evans from Salon Guru, and we're diving into what AI is doing to Google search and what that means for your salon business.We break down how Google's AI is already showing up in your potential clients' search results, what's actually driving which salons appear at the top, and why content and reviews still remain the foundation of everything.We also get into the practical stuff, how to use AI tools like ChatGPT without sounding like a robot, why you need to know your traffic and rank numbers before anything else, and the simple phone test you can do today that will tell you exactly where your salon stands. Phil's homework at the end of this episode is worth the listen alone. IN THIS EPISODE:[00:00] Introduction and marketing course waitlist announcement [01:13] Welcoming Phil Evans from Salon Guru back to the show [02:00] What AI has actually changed about Google search [03:15] How AI search works in practice, with real examples[07:57] The numbers behind salon website traffic (and what "good" looks like) [09:13] What determines which salon ranks first for "best balayage near me" [10:00] Why content and reviews are 90% of the job [11:31] The three most important things a small salon owner should focus on [16:00] How to use AI writing tools without sounding like a robot [19:25] What happens if a salon ignores AI and search over the next few years [21:00] How to make your existing content AI-ready [22:39] Three practical takeaways you can action today [23:08] The free rank report from Salon Guru (and how to find your numbers) [25:10] How local search radius works, and the wake-up call most salons need Want MORE to help you GROW?

Let us know your thoughtsLast week, we had our annual horror short film showcase, some of the filmmakers took to the stage to discuss their short film & their thoughts on the horror genre. Dogs and GhostsThis short was included in a horror anthology in Seattle, and you can watch it around the 18-minute, 20-second markhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HA1YphPFVaE&t=39sFreakin Weekend! Trailer https://www.instagram.com/reel/DK2Egi3RqZE/?hl=enCrèche & Burn | movie | 2025 | Official Trailerhttps://www.dailymotion.com/video/x9kot64IG - @thehorrorcutshow | @HewittGPro | @StephenkerrActor_Performer FB - Facebook.com/profile.php?id=61573701383591

There are many responsibilities that come with being a salon owner, and if we're honest, most of us give very little thought to them before we open our doors. One of the biggest blind spots is the ongoing training and development of our teams. Too many salon owners assume their people will arrive fully formed and ready to perform. But it just doesn't work like that.In this episode, I'm asking the question: have we created an industry where owners and managers are afraid to be the leaders we're meant to be? Because when there's no real training culture in a salon, the cost is real: poor retention, fragmented culture, no career path. And that lack of leadership is one of the key drivers pushing good stylists towards self-employment.But this episode isn't just about the problem; it's about the solution. What does a salon with a real training culture actually look like? And what changes for your team and your business when you stop waiting for people to show up ready and start developing them yourself?IN THIS EPISODE:[00:00] Welcome [00:45] Why salon owners expect too much before they've given enough [02:06] The transition from stylist to salon owner, and what gets missed along the way [03:00] How teams are left to pick up bits and pieces from social media and product events [07:28] The real cost: poor retention, no culture, no career path [07:58] Why the self-employment exodus is a leadership problem, not a people problem [09:20] What a real training culture actually looks like [10:40] You don't have to do it yourself, but you do have to make it happen [12:25] The numbers that tell you whether your stylists really know their stuff [13:11] The leverage you have as a leader: productivity and pay [13:57] What real leadership looks like in practice [14:59] The takeaway: it's your responsibility to develop them [15:40] How structured training changes everything[16:00] Final thoughts and next steps Want MORE to help you GROW?

Hairdressers get heated about licensing but is that loyalty earned or conditioned? In this episode, I break down why cosmetology licensing looks more like financial gatekeeping than public protection. We'll cover the emotional sunk cost that keeps stylists defending it, the lack of evidence that licensing improves safety, and how the system disproportionately impacts women and marginalized workers. If you've ever felt conflicted about the license you worked so hard for, this one's for you.

In today's episode, I'm joined by Gerard Scarpaci, co-founder of Hairbrained and host of the Hairbrained Conversations podcast. We talk about the big shifts happening in hairdressing right now, how the next generation learns differently, and why the old business models have been turned on their head. Gerard shares what excites him most about the industry today, but he's also refreshingly honest about the risks, particularly around lack of direction, mentorship, and the pressure many hairdressers are carrying without even realising it.We also dig into job satisfaction, education, live events, the changing relationship between salons and manufacturers, and why content creation is becoming one of the biggest opportunities for young hairdressers today. This is a wide-ranging, honest conversation about what it really takes to build a sustainable, fulfilling career in today's salon business.IN THIS EPISODE:[00:00] Welcome and Introducing Gerard Scarpaci [01:48] What excites Gerard about the industry today[05:00] The concerns and risks of increased independence[09:00] The Hairbrained Confidence Index explained[12:36] Why industry data is emotional, not scientific[16:26] What successful salons are doing differently[17:56] Job satisfaction, pressure, and performance[23:08] Learning, relevance, and modern education challenges[29:36] Fundamentals vs "timely and relevant" learning[32:32] The changing relationship between brands and salons[37:00] Online education, live events, and what's working now[44:28] Opportunities for the next generation of hairdressers[48:00] Where to connect with Gerard and closing thoughtsWant MORE to help you GROW?

Nearly four years ago, I recorded an episode about why hairdressers should be recommending professional retail. And yet, here we are, still having the same conversation. The fundamentals haven't changed, but the world we're operating in absolutely has. Inflation, online shopping, influencers, and changing client behaviour… all of it has added new layers to old objections.In this episode, I break down why so many stylists still avoid recommending retail and, more importantly, what's really sitting underneath those objections. I walk through the most common excuses I hear, grouped into skill issues, mindset issues, fear issues, and systems issues and explain why teaching product knowledge or scripts alone will never fix the problem.This isn't about being pushy or “selling.” It's about professionalism, service, responsibility, and ultimately the sustainability of your business. If you're a salon owner or a stylist who wants stronger client relationships, better results, and a more profitable salon, this is a conversation you can't keep avoiding.IN THIS EPISODE:[00:00] Intro: Retail version 2.0: what's changed[01:58] Same salon, same clients, very different retail results[02:43] Why scripts and commissions don't solve retail[03:22] The three real reasons hairdressers should recommend retail[06:49] The 4 categories behind all retail objections[07:39] Skill issues: “I don't know how” and product knowledge[09:40] Mindset issues: “It's not my job”[12:09] Fear issues: The fear of being pushy or transactional[20:06] Systems issues and retail culture in salons[26:30] Final thoughts Want MORE to help you GROW?

Mike sits down with the dean and co-founder of Paul Mitchell Schools to talk about how an industry built on scissors, sinks, and human connection quietly shapes culture, opportunity, and second chances. Known by just about everyone who's met him as relentlessly—and genuinely—nice, Winn shares his improbable journey from former meth addict to one of the most influential educators in beauty, his deep commitment to philanthropy, and the philosophy behind his book Be Nice (or Else!). It's a conversation about redemption, dignity in work, and the unexpected people who end up running the world—one haircut at a time. Today's episode is sponsored by PureTalk.com/Rowe Save 50% off your first month! NetSuite.com/Mike Download their FREE business guide, Demystifying AI MDriveForMen.com Try Boost and Burn to aid energy, metabolism and fat burning MCSF.org/apply Check your availability and apply today!

In this final episode of our three-part series on the five pillars of salon success, I take a different approach by talking you through the journey of Sarah, a real salon owner who in many ways reflects the journey that salon owners everywhere go through.   Sarah's a very good hairdresser, and she definitely doesn't have a work ethic problem, but despite working harder than ever, doing everything “right” as a stylist, her business was barely surviving. She was exhausted, overwhelmed, and wondering if she'd made a huge mistake.Over 12 months of working together, everything changed, not because she worked harder still or took on more clients, but because she stopped trying to fix business problems with hairdressing skills. Instead, she learned how to run her business the right way. Over the course of 2025, we focused on leadership, systems, money, marketing, team development, and culture and the results were incredible and became the blueprint for my Business School Intensive program. This episode shows you what real change actually looks like when you commit to learning the business side of running your salon properly. And if you see yourself in this story, it might just help you decide what you're going to do next.IN THIS EPISODE:[00:00] Introduction & recap of the five pillars series[01:30] The moment how I saw my business changed[03:34] “You don't own a salon, you own a business that happens to do hair”[04:27] Meet “Sarah” a talented stylist drowning as an owner[05:37] What her life really looked like behind the scenes[09:29] The night she finally faced her numbers[10:37] Making the decision to get business education[20:44] Where Sarah is today, the results after 12 months[25:08] Final thoughts and choosing a different futureWant MORE to help you GROW?

In this episode, I'm diving deep into the Money Pillar of salon success, because after more than 20+ years of coaching salon owners all over the world, I know this to be true: you can have a full appointment book, a talented team, and great marketing, and still be broke. Being busy does not automatically mean you're profitable, and for a lot of salon owners, that realisation is both confusing and exhausting.I talk through the three biggest money problems that keep salon owners stuck: not knowing if they're actually profitable, underpricing services based on fear instead of maths, and tracking the wrong numbers, or no numbers at all. If you've ever looked at a busy month and wondered where all the money went, this episode will explain exactly why that keeps happening.Most importantly, I show you what to focus on instead. The key numbers that actually matter, how to stop guessing, and how financial literacy changes everything once you learn it. Because when you understand your numbers, you stop hoping and start running your salon with confidence, clarity, and profit.IN THIS EPISODE:[00:00] Introduction and the five pillars recap[02:30] Busy does not equal profitable[04:16] Problem #1: Not knowing if you're actually profitable[05:22] Why your bank balance lies[05:46] Understanding your profit and loss statement[07:05] Problem #2: Pricing based on fear instead of maths[08:42] The real cost of underpricing services[09:35] Problem #3: Tracking the wrong numbers[10:18] Profit margins and industry benchmarks[11:00] Average ticket and why it matters[11:35] Client retention and the biggest leak in your business[12:03] Cost per service explained[12:27] Revenue per hour and stylist productivity[15:07] Free training and Business School Intensive overview[17:13] Final thoughts and what's coming next weekWant MORE to help you GROW?

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