POPULARITY
Categories
If you've spent any time in a salon breakroom lately, you've heard the narrative: "The J-months are just slow," "Everyone is struggling right now," or "Clients just aren't spending money." I'm here to tell you that the "everyone is struggling" narrative is simply false, because while some stylists are watching their schedules fill with gaps, thousands of others are having $300k and $400k years. We aren't in an economic collapse; we are in a K-shaped recovery, and if you're waiting for the world to "go back to normal" so your business can bounce back, you're waiting for a ship that has already sailed. In this episode, I get incredibly transparent about why the industry is under a massive pressure to level up and why your refusal to change your strategy is the only thing actually costing you. We're talking about the death of "autopilot" marketing, why your website matters more than your Instagram right now, and how to stop being a victim of the economy so you can start winning in silence. The economy isn't your enemy! Your outdated strategy is and now is the time to pivot. Join me live for our free, high-impact training where I'll break down exactly what's driving demand for today's fastest-growing stylists and how to apply it to your business right now. Limited sessions start today, February 23rd, and you can save your FREE spot at www.thrivingstylist.com/bookedbydesign/! If you need a tool to keep your numbers (and business!) organized, you'll want to check out our Wealthiest Year Yet Planner. Get yours now at www.thrivingstylist.com/wealthiestyearyet/. The beauty industry is changing faster than ever. What worked in 2022 or even 2024 won't cut it in 2026, so are you ready? Grab our FREE 2026 TREND REPORT, The 2026 Must-Know Business Realities, Strategies & Trends for Stylists and Salon Owners now at https://thrivingstylist.com/mustknow/. Thriving Leadership Method hands salon owners a step-by-step strategy to implement an irresistible culture and create a powerful growth path…all while setting themselves up for structure and profit, and you can join the waitlist NOW at www.thrivingstylist.com/thrivingleadershipmethod/! With Grow My Clientele Calculator, you'll get instant clarity on how many new clients you'll need to hit your 2025 financial goals! Enter just four numbers, and this tool will show you exactly how many new guests you need monthly and yearly to reach your target income. No guesswork or complicated math required, and you can get it now at www.thrivingstylist.com/growmyclientele/. Do you have a question for me that you'd like answered in a future episode like this one? A great way to do that is to head over to Apple Podcasts and leave a rating and review with your question. I'm looking forward to answering your question on a future episode on the podcast! If you're not already following us, @thethrivingstylist, what are you waiting for? This is where I share pro tips every single week, along with winning strategies, testimonials, and amazing breakthroughs from my audience. You're not going to want to miss out on this. Learn more at: https://thrivingstylist.com/podcast/
Send a textMost salon owners aren't stuck because they're lazy. They're stuck because they're not making structural changes to their business.They work harder. They take more clients. They stay late. They put out fires all day long. But the underlying systems, leadership structure, and business design never evolve, and eventually, growth stops.In this episode, we break down why salon owners fall into autopilot, how early success can create long-term stagnation, and why reactive decision-making keeps businesses trapped in the same patterns year after year.We also talk about leadership mindset shifts, intentionally building systems, asking better questions, and why working more hours isn't the solution. The solution is stepping out of operations mode and designing a business that can actually grow.Your business should serve you, so that you can serve others.And growth begins when you stop operating on autopilot.KEY TAKEAWAYSHard work alone won't evolve your business.Structural change is required for growth.Reactive leadership creates recurring problems.Systems eliminate repeated decision fatigue.Familiar patterns can limit long-term growth.Leadership confidence directly affects team stability.Early success can hide structural weaknesses.Ignoring financial data creates long-term stress.Owners must shift from being technicians to architects.Intentional design creates sustainable businesses.TIME STAMPS00:00 — Salon rebuild update and episode overview 02:00 — Jen's opening take: environment affects performance and confidence 05:00 — Todd's opening takes: autopilot and adapting retail models 09:00 — Why salon owners stay stuck 12:00 — Hard work vs structural change 15:00 — Reactive businesses vs intentional businesses 18:00 — Systems reduce daily chaos and stress 20:00 — Why familiarity keeps owners stuck 22:00 — Leadership uncertainty and staff hesitation 24:00 — Early success creates false stability 27:00 — Ignoring numbers and buried financial stress 29:00 — Asking for help and gaining clarity 31:00 — Leadership mindset shifts required for growth 33:00 — Why managers don't fix broken leadership 35:00 — Designing your business intentionally 37:00 — Final thoughts and next stepsLinks and Stuff:Our Newsletter Mentoring InquiriesFind more of our things:InstagramHello Hair Pro Website
I've noticed a dangerous trend lately where stylists and salon owners are treating DMs as a burden instead of a gift. We're shutting them off, ignoring them (or even worse) hiding behind auto-responders that act as total lead killers. I get it; DMs can feel time-consuming. But in a world where AI is rapidly disrupting the workforce, human connection is the one thing we need to cling to, and that's what this episode is all about. Today, I reveal why the Instagram "like and follow" game of 2015 is dead and what the algorithm is actually looking for today (spoiler: DMs are your #1 indicator of success). I'm also sharing my 4-Step Pipeline to help you streamline these conversations and get guests to the finish line without wasting hours of your day, and a whole lot more. Right now, trust has to be built before they ever walk through the salon doors. It's time to stop the automation rush and start reopening the most powerful channel you have for building demand, and let me know how this helps you! Join me live for our upcoming free, high-impact training where I'll break down exactly what's driving demand for today's fastest-growing stylists and how to apply it to your business right now. Limited sessions start February 23rd, and you can save your FREE spot at www.thrivingstylist.com/bookedbydesign/! If you need a tool to keep your numbers (and business!) organized, you'll want to check out our Wealthiest Year Yet Planner. Get yours now at www.thrivingstylist.com/wealthiestyearyet/. The beauty industry is changing faster than ever. What worked in 2022 or even 2024 won't cut it in 2026, so are you ready? Grab our FREE 2026 TREND REPORT, The 2026 Must-Know Business Realities, Strategies & Trends for Stylists and Salon Owners now at https://thrivingstylist.com/mustknow/. Thriving Leadership Method hands salon owners a step-by-step strategy to implement an irresistible culture and create a powerful growth path…all while setting themselves up for structure and profit, and you can join the waitlist NOW at www.thrivingstylist.com/thrivingleadershipmethod/! With Grow My Clientele Calculator, you'll get instant clarity on how many new clients you'll need to hit your 2025 financial goals! Enter just four numbers, and this tool will show you exactly how many new guests you need monthly and yearly to reach your target income. No guesswork or complicated math required, and you can get it now at www.thrivingstylist.com/growmyclientele/. Do you have a question for me that you'd like answered in a future episode like this one? A great way to do that is to head over to Apple Podcasts and leave a rating and review with your question. I'm looking forward to answering your question on a future episode on the podcast! If you're not already following us, @thethrivingstylist, what are you waiting for? This is where I share pro tips every single week, along with winning strategies, testimonials, and amazing breakthroughs from my audience. You're not going to want to miss out on this. Learn more at: https://thrivingstylist.com/podcast/
If you're a hairstylist or salon owner who is fully booked but secretly exhausted… this one is for you.In this episode, Misty shares the story of one of her first Master Your Mess clients, a successful stylist and salon owner who didn't need more clients… she needed her life back.Ready to work together? Apply Here
In this episode, I'm celebrating… myself.Not in a braggy way. In a “wow, I can't believe how far this has come” kind of way.After 19 years of salon ownership, I can honestly say I've built a business that runs without me needing to touch every single thing. I'm not answering phones. I'm not chasing no-shows. I'm not putting out daily fires. I'm not behind the chair to pay the bills.And that didn't happen by luck.It happened because of:Clear standardsStrong systemsLeadership developmentRelentless culture protectionHiring well and training even betterIn this episode, I break down:What I actually do as a salon owner todayWhat I absolutely do not do anymoreThe leadership shift that changed everythingWhy being “the glue” is not the goalHow building structure creates real freedomThis isn't about stepping back and not caring. It's about building something strong enough to stand without you in every conversation.If you're exhausted from being the most important (and most overwhelmed) person in your salon, this episode is your wake-up call.You don't need to grow bigger first.You need to go deeper, into standards, systems, and leadership.And when you're ready to build a business that runs without chaos (and without you having to hold it together 24/7), you know where to find me.Let's build the room, not just be the most important person in it. Join The Monday Club: Where leadership, systems, and the compounding cash system come together, without the burnout.https://www.lexilomax.com/monday-club
In this episode, Sam Lackney, hairdresser and owner of The Rare Bird, shares her journey from high school cosmetology to salon ownership, shaped by curiosity, community, and hard-earned perspective. She opens up about the lessons that come from learning the business side early, navigating uncertainty, and building a salon culture that prioritizes people, sustainability, and long-term growth.This conversation explores how artistry and accountability intersect, and why sustainable salons are built on clarity, care, and long-term thinking.Follow/subscribe to be the first to know when new episodes are released. Like what you hear? Leave us a review!
Welcome back to the gohappybeauty podcast! In this episode, Grant Kantsios sits down with Bethany Parker, a returning guest whose journey in the beauty and spray tanning industry has taken her through remarkable twists and turns. Since their first chat in 2019, Bethany Parker has reinvented herself and her business—relocating, taking time off to focus on family, and ultimately returning to her hometown to open The Society, a unique beauty salon and social club. In today's conversation, Bethany Parker shares how she went from spray tanning in a spare bedroom to launching a full-scale salon, navigating everything from renovating a decades-old space to building an inclusive community of beauty professionals. She opens up about training others, selling her client list, surviving the pandemic, and the importance of intentional branding and client experience. Whether you're a beauty industry veteran or thinking about making your first leap, you'll find inspiration and practical advice on pursuing your business dreams, embracing change, and creating something truly special. Let's dive in and catch up with Bethany Parker as she shares the lessons, challenges, and triumphs from her amazing journey back in the world of sunless tanning and beauty entrepreneurship.
For salon professionals transitioning to management and ownership, leading a salon company can be a steep learning curve. Don't be a passenger on your own business journey. Join Blake Reed Evans and Kevin Robinson, CFO of Summit Salon Business Center, for an essential conversation about financial literacy for salon owners. Learn how to shift from reactive to proactive financial management, identify common blind spots, and build sustainable business practices -- all while embracing an abundance mindset. Learn more about Summit Financial Services and book a discovery call. Or email Nikke Salmon at nsalmon@summitsalon.comFollow Kevin on Instagram: @kev_robin. 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.
For years, I've been one of the biggest proponents of salon retail. I've taught the programs, I've shared the scripts, and I've preached that retail equals retention. But I've hit a point where I can no longer be complicit in a system that I'm watching settle like a lead weight on the books of salons across the industry, and that's what today's show is all about. In this episode, I address the dramatic shifts we're seeing to retail programs in 2026. I reveal the uncomfortable reality of competing for sales against the very brands that are supposed to be our partners, why the "1997 model" of stocking shelves is officially on its way to the graveyard, and more. If you've been feeling like selling retail has become an uphill battle you can't win, this is your wake-up call. The model is broken, the industry is changing, and it's time to decide if you're going to evolve or get left behind! To the stylist who wants a booked out calendar and a thriving business, our 5-day bootcamp, 10 new clients every month bootcamp: 5x your demand as a hairstylist in today's economy, starts today, February 9th, and you can join now at https://thrivingstylist.com/10clients/! If you need a tool to keep your numbers (and business!) organized, you'll want to check out our Wealthiest Year Yet Planner. Get yours now at www.thrivingstylist.com/wealthiestyearyet/. The beauty industry is changing faster than ever. What worked in 2022 or even 2024 won't cut it in 2026, so are you ready? Grab our FREE 2026 TREND REPORT, The 2026 Must-Know Business Realities, Strategies & Trends for Stylists and Salon Owners now at https://thrivingstylist.com/mustknow/. Thriving Leadership Method hands salon owners a step-by-step strategy to implement an irresistible culture and create a powerful growth path…all while setting themselves up for structure and profit, and you can join the waitlist NOW at www.thrivingstylist.com/thrivingleadershipmethod/! With Grow My Clientele Calculator, you'll get instant clarity on how many new clients you'll need to hit your 2025 financial goals! Enter just four numbers, and this tool will show you exactly how many new guests you need monthly and yearly to reach your target income. No guesswork or complicated math required, and you can get it now at www.thrivingstylist.com/growmyclientele/. Do you have a question for me that you'd like answered in a future episode like this one? A great way to do that is to head over to Apple Podcasts and leave a rating and review with your question. I'm looking forward to answering your question on a future episode on the podcast! If you're not already following us, @thethrivingstylist, what are you waiting for? This is where I share pro tips every single week, along with winning strategies, testimonials, and amazing breakthroughs from my audience. You're not going to want to miss out on this. Learn more at: https://thrivingstylist.com/podcast/
Celebrity Hairstylist and Salon Owner, Traci Barrett joins Beyond the Technique to share her powerful journey from answering phones in a corporate salon to becoming a renowned hair artist in LA—and ultimately building a purpose-driven salon in Phoenix. In this episode, Traci and Kati dive into rethinking the traditional salon model, from commission structures and team-based environments to eliminating fear-based leadership and non-compete culture. Traci reveals how her personal life challenges reshaped her vision and led her to build a salon rooted in mentorship, education, sustainability, and service. You'll learn how she's creating a new standard through a structured education pathway, inclusive hair design, and a hospitality-inspired client experience, including her innovative focus on scalp care and Head Spa services. If you're a salon owner or leader who wants to build a modern, values-driven, and team-centered business that actually works, this episode will expand how you think about the future of our industry. WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtu.be/xRVcir54p_0 GET MY BOOK! From First Date to Forever; How to Market Like A Matchmaker: https://joinmya.com/from-first-date-to-forever-book POWERED BY: JOIN mya! joinmya.com FOLLOW TRACI BARRETT Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tracibarrett/ LET'S CONNECT! BTT Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beyondthetechnique MYA Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/join_mya/ FOLLOW KATI WHITLEDGE Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katiwhitledge/ Get my favorite bio-hacking products: CLICK HERE SPONSORS Join the PBA: https://www.probeauty.org/
If you have ever had multiple interests in your life and business but don't know how to place them or how to use them, you gotta meet Tracey Napotnik. From being a Breast Cancer Survivor to a Salon Owner to Hair Show Reviver to the Founder of SalonTraining.com--Tracey has so much to offer the world and YOU and she's not stopping yet!...except for her kids and ever supporting husband. Check it out now!WANT MORE TRACEY?Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tracey.napotnikFacebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1591841874549525/ Website: https://salontraining.com/WANT MORE KRYSTINE?For 1:1 Coaching, Freebies & More, TAP HERE: bit.ly/3S5R2lowww.thebeautyprocoach.comLOVE THIS EPISODE?Leave Your Ratings, Reviews & Comments on the Podcast! Your feedback allows for more nourishing content and for more on-point education for beauty & barber pros.
Send a textOver the past few weeks, we've talked a lot about leadership, culture, and what really holds a salon together when things get difficult. But in this episode, we want to step back and explain something we realized while rebuilding our salon.Culture is not your branding.It's not your vibe.And it's not what you write on the wall.Culture is how your business behaves.In this episode, we introduce a simple five-mode leadership framework that explains how culture is created in real life, through operations, systems, leadership, strategy, and crisis. We walk through what each mode actually looks like inside a salon, how your team experiences your culture in each one, and why most salon owners only recognize two modes: daily operations and emergencies.We also share what it looked like to relocate our entire team from our building to another salon, and why that experience revealed more about our culture than any mission statement ever could.If you've ever struggled to clearly define your salon's culture, this framework will help you understand what's really shaping it and how to lead it intentionally.Your business should serve you, so that you can serve others.KEY TAKEAWAYCulture is how your business behaves, not how you describe it.Clients experience culture primarily through daily operations.Strong systems reduce guessing and build confidence for your team.Leadership creates psychological safety and accountability.Strategy creates stability, credibility, and alignment.Crisis reveals culture faster than any other situation.Most owners only operate in operations and crisis mode.Leaders must learn to shift between different modes intentionally.Written systems prevent frustration and miscommunication.Knowing what “mode” you are in changes how you lead.TIME STAMPS00:00 – Quick rebuild update + why this episode exists 01:30 – Jen's opening take: reacting with clients and protecting experience 04:00 – Todd's opening take: perspective and responsibility 06:30 – Culture is not branding or “vibe” 08:30 – Removing your team from your space reveals real culture 10:30 – What other salons and clients noticed about your team 12:30 – What clients actually say defines your culture 15:00 – Why culture shows most clearly when things go wrong 17:30 – Introducing the Five-Mode framework 18:30 – Mode 1: Operations 21:30 – Mode 2: Systems 24:45 – Mode 3: Leadership 27:45 – Mode 4: Strategy 31:30 – Mode 5: Crisis 35:00 – How the flood activated every mode 38:00 – Identifying what mode you're actually in 41:00 – Using the framework to stop reacting and start leading 43:30 – Closing thoughts + next stepsLinks and Stuff:Our Newsletter Mentoring InquiriesFind more of our things:InstagramHello Hair Pro Website
In this episode, Yene Damtew shares her journey from early curiosity about hair to becoming the founder of Aesthetics Salon, and why education, fundamentals, and business awareness matter at every stage of a beauty career.This conversation is about longevity, ownership mindset, and building something sustainable beyond trends or titles.Follow/subscribe to be the first to know when new episodes are released. Like what you hear? Leave us a review!
I've heard the question, "Should it be the responsibility of the salon owner to put clientele in to their stylists chair?"In this episode I'm giving my two cents to this question, as well as some easy tips to help salon owners & stylists make marketing more easily, consistently and how to market the salon and your own personal brand in harmony. Take a listen!Samantha's InstagramSalon Owners Program SALON SUCCESS: Building a Team That Grows with You
In Chapter 4 of Your Salon Retail, Lisa tackles one of the biggest mistakes salon, spa, and clinic owners make when it comes to retail and team training: treating retail as an add-on instead of a core skill.This chapter is all about starting where it actually counts.Lisa breaks down why we've traditionally trained teams on technical skill first and left communication, consultation, and problem-solving until later — and how that single decision quietly sabotages retail results, team confidence, and client outcomes.You'll hear why:Great results require retail (drop the mic
Are you still pricing yourself based on what the salon down the street charges, or maybe a "gut feeling" that you're worth more? Do you actually know if your current rates are protecting your profit, or are you accidentally losing money in the tiny gaps of your workday? In this episode, I'm finally sharing a MASSIVE update that's been months in the making. We have officially evolved from our classic 7 factors to the brand-new 9- Factor Method. While the old way served 20,000 stylists for a decade, the 2026 market is different, and your business needs to be more precise to stay profitable. If you're ready to stop guessing and start building a stable, high-demand business, then you're going to love this! To the stylist who wants a booked out calendar and a thriving business, our 5-day bootcamp, 10 new clients every month bootcamp: 5x your demand as a hairstylist in today's economy, starts February 9th and you can join now at https://thrivingstylist.com/10clients/! If you need a tool to keep your numbers (and business!) organized, you'll want to check out our Wealthiest Year Yet Planner. Get yours now at www.thrivingstylist.com/wealthiestyearyet/. The beauty industry is changing faster than ever. What worked in 2022 or even 2024 won't cut it in 2026, so are you ready? Grab our FREE 2026 TREND REPORT, The 2026 Must-Know Business Realities, Strategies & Trends for Stylists and Salon Owners now at https://thrivingstylist.com/mustknow/. Thriving Leadership Method hands salon owners a step-by-step strategy to implement an irresistible culture and create a powerful growth path…all while setting themselves up for structure and profit, and you can join the waitlist NOW at www.thrivingstylist.com/thrivingleadershipmethod/! With Grow My Clientele Calculator, you'll get instant clarity on how many new clients you'll need to hit your 2025 financial goals! Enter just four numbers, and this tool will show you exactly how many new guests you need monthly and yearly to reach your target income. No guesswork or complicated math required, and you can get it now at www.thrivingstylist.com/growmyclientele/. Do you have a question for me that you'd like answered in a future episode like this one? A great way to do that is to head over to Apple Podcasts and leave a rating and review with your question. I'm looking forward to answering your question on a future episode on the podcast! If you're not already following us, @thethrivingstylist, what are you waiting for? This is where I share pro tips every single week, along with winning strategies, testimonials, and amazing breakthroughs from my audience. You're not going to want to miss out on this. Learn more at: https://thrivingstylist.com/podcast/
What happens when a former undercover police decoy becomes a salon owner, educator, and global business mentor?In this episode, Misty Jayne sits down with Alison Rodriguez, co-founder of two successful salons and creator of Mastermynd Beauty, to talk about growth, reinvention, and building a sustainable career in the beauty industry.Alison shares her unconventional journey—from working undercover with law enforcement as a teenager to opening and scaling multiple salons, training over 100 stylists, and eventually stepping into education, events, and global mentorship for salon owners and hairstylists.This conversation is a must-listen if you're a hairstylist or salon owner who:Feels stuck doing the same thing and craving more growthIs overwhelmed by social media, business decisions, or leadershipWants to move beyond just “making money behind the chair”Is curious about education, mindset, automation, and long-term sustainability
In Part 2 of our real-time salon build docuseries, we return to Corte in Washington, D.C., now fully built and officially open. Gabby and Franky, two first-time salon owners in Washington, D.C., reflect on the months between construction and opening day, sharing hard-earned lessons on patience, budgeting, design compromises, team building, and what it actually feels like to step into ownership.This episode goes beyond the build to discuss comfort, workflow, client experience, and what it takes to step into ownership intentionally.
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?
Why do we all get into this industry to make money, yet feel so uncomfortable actually managing it? Is your "dream career" turning into a self-sacrificing cycle because you're making emotional financial decisions instead of logical ones? If you're still praying for a big tax refund or keeping a pile of receipts in your center console, it's time for a serious financial intervention, and today I bring you what you need to know. In this one I'm getting into the messy, unsexy details of the "money stuff" we usually avoid. We're breaking down the brutal reality of revenue versus income, why a massive tax refund is actually a sign of mismanagement, and the non-negotiable bank account setup every independent stylist needs to survive. I'm sharing the math on how a $50 monthly investment can build real wealth and why increasing your demand is always smarter than just raising your prices. It's time to stop letting money sneak up on you and start taking control of your future - so let's do this! To the stylist who wants a booked out calendar and a thriving business, our 5-day bootcamp, 10 new clients every month bootcamp: 5x your demand as a hairstylist in today's economy, starts February 9th and you can join now at https://thrivingstylist.com/10clients/! If you need a tool to keep your numbers (and business!) organized, you'll want to check out our Wealthiest Year Yet Planner. Get yours now at www.thrivingstylist.com/wealthiestyearyet/. The beauty industry is changing faster than ever. What worked in 2022 or even 2024 won't cut it in 2026, so are you ready? Grab our FREE 2026 TREND REPORT, The 2026 Must-Know Business Realities, Strategies & Trends for Stylists and Salon Owners now at https://thrivingstylist.com/mustknow/. Thriving Leadership Method hands salon owners a step-by-step strategy to implement an irresistible culture and create a powerful growth path…all while setting themselves up for structure and profit, and you can join the waitlist NOW at www.thrivingstylist.com/thrivingleadershipmethod/! With Grow My Clientele Calculator, you'll get instant clarity on how many new clients you'll need to hit your 2025 financial goals! Enter just four numbers, and this tool will show you exactly how many new guests you need monthly and yearly to reach your target income. No guesswork or complicated math required, and you can get it now at www.thrivingstylist.com/growmyclientele/. Do you have a question for me that you'd like answered in a future episode like this one? A great way to do that is to head over to Apple Podcasts and leave a rating and review with your question. I'm looking forward to answering your question on a future episode on the podcast! If you're not already following us, @thethrivingstylist, what are you waiting for? This is where I share pro tips every single week, along with winning strategies, testimonials, and amazing breakthroughs from my audience. You're not going to want to miss out on this. Learn more at: https://thrivingstylist.com/podcast/
Send us your feedback about the episode!You might be fully booked — but are you actually making money?In this episode of Beauty Behind the Brand, Nicole dives into one of the most important (and most avoided) topics in the beauty industry: knowing your numbers. From service pricing and product margins to hidden costs that quietly eat away at profit, this episode is all about moving from busy to profitable.Nicole breaks down how to audit your services, evaluate product profitability, and understand where your money is really going — without overwhelm. With real-life examples from over 10 years of spa ownership, she shares how tracking your numbers gives you clarity, confidence, and control over your business decisions.If you're ready to stop guessing, start leading like a CEO, and build a beauty business that actually supports your life, this episode is your starting point for 2026. Subscribe for New Episodes Every Tuesday!Be sure to check us out on all our socials:Follow on Instagram: @beautybrandpodcasthttps://www.instagram.com/beautybrandpodcast/Subscribe on Youtube: @beautybehindthebrandpodcasthttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEl-qd38M4OgL8IghZ8ga9gWebsite:https://www.miskoka.com/beauty-behind-the-brandFollow our host on Instagram: @nicmanionhttps://www.instagram.com/nicmanion/
Is your business actually feeling the "crunch" of this 2026 economy, or are you just stuck on the wrong side of the Great Divide? If that effortless "glory season" of building a clientele feels like a distant memory, you aren't imagining it. The industry has shifted from a quantity game to a quality game, and honestly? Your marketing has to evolve or it's going to get left behind. Today, I'm getting real about the 8 specific ways you need to be marketing yourself as a stylist right now. We're moving past the "post and pray" method and getting intentional. I'm walking you through how to master a 50/25/25 content split that actually converts, why "mini" services are the secret to a full book, and how to stop guessing so you can start leading. It's time to lean into real human connection, reclaim your authority, and build a business that doesn't just survive this season but stays profitable through it. Let's get to work! If you need a tool to keep your numbers (and business!) organized, you'll want to check out our Wealthiest Year Yet Planner. Get yours now at www.thrivingstylist.com/wealthiestyearyet/. The beauty industry is changing faster than ever. What worked in 2022 or even 2024 won't cut it in 2026, so are you ready? Grab our FREE 2026 TREND REPORT, The 2026 Must-Know Business Realities, Strategies & Trends for Stylists and Salon Owners now at https://thrivingstylist.com/mustknow/. Thriving Leadership Method hands salon owners a step-by-step strategy to implement an irresistible culture and create a powerful growth path…all while setting themselves up for structure and profit, and you can join the waitlist NOW at www.thrivingstylist.com/thrivingleadershipmethod/! With Grow My Clientele Calculator, you'll get instant clarity on how many new clients you'll need to hit your 2025 financial goals! Enter just four numbers, and this tool will show you exactly how many new guests you need monthly and yearly to reach your target income. No guesswork or complicated math required, and you can get it now at www.thrivingstylist.com/growmyclientele/. Do you have a question for me that you'd like answered in a future episode like this one? A great way to do that is to head over to Apple Podcasts and leave a rating and review with your question. I'm looking forward to answering your question on a future episode on the podcast! If you're not already following us, @thethrivingstylist, what are you waiting for? This is where I share pro tips every single week, along with winning strategies, testimonials, and amazing breakthroughs from my audience. You're not going to want to miss out on this. Learn more at: https://thrivingstylist.com/podcast/
In this episode of the Grow A Small Business Podcast, host Troy Trewin interviews Maya Khoweiss, owner of Hairport One Hair & Beauty, shares her journey from earning just $35 in a week to building a high-performing salon with a large, dedicated team. She talks about the power of consistency, personal growth, and stepping into the role of a true business leader. Maya explains how understanding your audience and smart use of Facebook ads helped scale her business. She also opens up about navigating COVID lockdowns, managing rapid growth, and leading through uncertainty. The episode is packed with real lessons on resilience, culture, and sustainable business growth. Why would you wait any longer to start living the lifestyle you signed up for? Balance your health, wealth, relationships and business growth. And focus your time and energy and make the most of this year. Let's get into it by clicking here. Troy delves into our guest's startup journey, their perception of success, industry reconsideration, and the pivotal stress point during business expansion. They discuss the joys of small business growth, vital entrepreneurial habits, and strategies for team building, encompassing wins, blunders, and invaluable advice. And a snapshot of the final five Grow A Small Business Questions: What do you think is the hardest thing in growing a small business? Maya Khoweiss shares that the hardest thing in growing a small business is building the right mindset and resilience. Showing up every day, staying consistent, and having faith in what you're building—even during tough times—is often the biggest challenge. What's your favorite business book that has helped you the most? Maya Khoweiss shares that her favorite business books that helped her the most are Think and Grow Rich, The E-Myth, and How to Win Friends and Influence People, as they shaped her mindset, systems thinking, and ability to build strong relationships. Are there any great podcasts or online learning resources you'd recommend to help grow a small business? Maya Khoweiss shares that great podcasts and learning resources she recommends are Diary of a CEO and The Queen of Confidence by Erica Kramer, which have helped her grow in leadership, confidence, and personal development. What tool or resource would you recommend to grow a small business? Maya Khoweiss shares that the most valuable tool to grow a small business is being crystal clear on your vision and goals, because clarity makes decision-making faster, easier, and more aligned. What advice would you give yourself on day one of starting out in business? Maya Khoweiss shares that the advice she would give herself on day one is to stay focused, stay consistent, and make decisions based on strong values, vision, and mission to reach success faster. Book a 20-minute Growth Chat with Troy Trewin to see if you qualify for our upcoming course. Don't miss out on this opportunity to take your small business to new heights! Enjoyed the podcast? Please leave a review on iTunes or your preferred platform. Your feedback helps more small business owners discover our podcast and embark on their business growth journey. Quotable quotes from our special Grow A Small Business podcast guest: Success isn't one big win, it's built by showing up and staying consistent every single day — Maya Khoweiss Real success is having freedom while your business runs without you — Maya Khoweiss Clarity in your vision makes every business decision easier and faster — Maya Khoweiss
An entrepreneur, military spouse, mom and life-long high achiever, Laura Watkins thought mental illness was for the weak -- until it happened to her. Laura is the owner of Pure Salon Spa in Louisville, KY, and the author of Something Feels Off: Thriving in Life & Business Beyond a Mental Health Crisis. After coming out of the other end of her own crisis, Laura is working to end the stigma around mental health, and bring the same care and compassion to mental illness as any other illness. In this frank conversation, Laura and Blake discuss the nuances of working with employees through mental health issues, and strategies for cultivating a culture that supports mental health in a salon company. Also, why owners should never tell their employees "we're a family here."Follow Laura Watkins on Instagram @Mentalgirl_502, and learn more about Laura and her book at mentalgirl502.com. 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.
After 20+ years of coaching salon owners, I can spot the pattern in under 5 minutes. Talented stylist opens dream salon, becomes overwhelmed operator, wonders what went wrong. If you're working harder than ever but not getting ahead, if you're the busiest person in your salon but still stressed about money, you're not alone.In today's episode, I'm revealing the #1 mistake that keeps talented salon owners stuck. The problem is that you're trying to solve business problems with technical skills instead of business skills. You cannot solve business problems by doing more hair.I'm breaking down the 5 Pillars of Salon Success, the framework that separates struggling salons from thriving ones. Most salon owners are working on 1 or 2 of these pillars. The successful ones master all 5.IN THIS EPISODE:[00:00] Why this episode might change how you see your business[01:19] The pattern I see constantly with salon owners[03:00] What most salon owners do when struggling[04:03] The #1 mistake: You can't solve business problems by doing more hair[06:00] The shift successful salon owners make[07:02] The 5 Pillars of Salon Success framework[07:19] Pillar #1: Management & Systems[08:09] Pillar #2: Money & Financial Clarity[09:03] Pillar #3: Marketing That Actually Works[10:14] Pillar #4: Super Stylist (Team Performance)[11:12] Pillar #5: Team & HR (Hiring, Culture, Retention)[12:34] Why all 5 pillars must work together[13:00] Why overwhelm comes from incomplete business education[13:22] Announcing the free 3-part video training[15:00] Introducing GROW Business School (12-month program)[15:25] How to access the free trainingWant MORE to help you GROW?FREE 3-PART VIDEO TRAINING:"The Five Things Holding Your Salon Back From Growing (And How to Fix Them)"
Send us your feedback about the episode!Beauty Behind the Brand is a podcast for beauty professionals who want to grow a business that supports their life — not consumes it.Hosted by Nicole Manion, this show explores the behind-the-scenes of spa ownership, entrepreneurship, motherhood, leadership, and personal growth in the beauty industry.Through real stories, mindset shifts, and business strategy, Nicole helps you build confidence, clarity, and sustainability in both business and life. Subscribe for New Episodes Every Tuesday!Be sure to check us out on all our socials:Follow on Instagram: @beautybrandpodcasthttps://www.instagram.com/beautybrandpodcast/Subscribe on Youtube: @beautybehindthebrandpodcasthttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEl-qd38M4OgL8IghZ8ga9gWebsite:https://www.miskoka.com/beauty-behind-the-brandFollow our host on Instagram: @nicmanionhttps://www.instagram.com/nicmanion/
Ever feel like your salon business is more of a "free fall" than a well-oiled machine? Whether you're a fresh beauty school grad or a tenured stylist who's been making money for a decade, have you ever stopped to wonder: is my business actually set up for long-term wealth, or am I just one slow week away from a total collapse? Today, I pull back the curtain on the exact step-by-step checklist I gave my own daughter when she transitioned to booth rental. We're moving past the "money in, money out" trap and diving into the structural essentials that 70 percent of stylists (yes, 70 percent!) completely overlook, diving into legal nuances and I reveal why your Instagram is actually the last step of a successful launch. Stop playing small and start building a business that offers true peace of mind. This is the checklist episode I've been waiting 8 years to bring you, so let's jump in and get you organized! If you need a tool to keep your numbers (and business!) organized, you'll want to check out our Wealthiest Year Yet Planner. Get yours now at www.thrivingstylist.com/wealthiestyearyet/. The beauty industry is changing faster than ever. What worked in 2022 or even 2024 won't cut it in 2026, so are you ready? Grab our FREE 2026 TREND REPORT, The 2026 Must-Know Business Realities, Strategies & Trends for Stylists and Salon Owners now at https://thrivingstylist.com/mustknow/. Thriving Leadership Method hands salon owners a step-by-step strategy to implement an irresistible culture and create a powerful growth path…all while setting themselves up for structure and profit, and you can join the waitlist NOW at www.thrivingstylist.com/thrivingleadershipmethod/! With Grow My Clientele Calculator, you'll get instant clarity on how many new clients you'll need to hit your 2025 financial goals! Enter just four numbers, and this tool will show you exactly how many new guests you need monthly and yearly to reach your target income. No guesswork or complicated math required, and you can get it now at www.thrivingstylist.com/growmyclientele/. Do you have a question for me that you'd like answered in a future episode like this one? A great way to do that is to head over to Apple Podcasts and leave a rating and review with your question. I'm looking forward to answering your question on a future episode on the podcast! If you're not already following us, @thethrivingstylist, what are you waiting for? This is where I share pro tips every single week, along with winning strategies, testimonials, and amazing breakthroughs from my audience. You're not going to want to miss out on this. Learn more at: https://thrivingstylist.com/podcast/
Marketing is one of the most misunderstood parts of running a salon, and it's often the reason growth feels inconsistent or exhausting.In this episode of Hairstylist Rising, Jodie sits down with Katie, salon owner turned founder of MYA, to break down what effective salon marketing really looks like when it's designed to support retention, team culture, and sustainable growth.Katie shares how her experience building and scaling commission salons led her to uncover one of the biggest issues in the industry: clients leaving after one visit simply because they weren't matched with the right stylist the first time. From there, the conversation expands into how salons can use marketing to create stronger connections, better first impressions, and longer-lasting client relationships.You'll also hear a refreshingly practical take on email marketing, SEO, personal branding within salons, and why marketing should feel more like relationship-building than selling.In this episode, we cover:Why marketing is about far more than getting new clients in the doorThe real reason many new clients don't return after their first visitHow better client-stylist matching improves retention and team moraleWhat salon owners should prioritize when it comes to websites and SEOWhy email marketing still matters for salons in 2026How personal brands can strengthen, not threaten, the salon brandWhat it actually means to nurture clients beyond the first appointmentResources mentioned:Learn more about MYA: https://joinmya.com/Follow MYA on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joinmyaKatie's book, From First Date To Forever
What a freaking year!2025 has taught me so many lessons, and as we step into the year of the horse, year 1 in numerology and a big shift for gemini's, it's safe to say, this is a year of transformation. In this episode, I'm sharing everything that 2025 taught me and how 2026 will be more aligned, clear, intentional and planned out so that I don't lead with burnout and can lead the life that is more free and fulfilled for ME. And I hope that these lessons I share, resonate with so many others.
Are you tired of just worrying about whether you made enough to pay the bills this month? Are you ready to stop operating on gut feelings and start building a genuinely predictable, profitable business? This episode is for the stylist who is serious about scaling their income and finally overcoming the money shame and overwhelm that holds 95 percent of the industry back. Today, I ditch the basic industry garbage metrics and unveil the 7 specific numbers most stylists aren't tracking…but should be! We're talking real, tactical targets here, like how to calculate your true pre-tax income goal, the service revenue needed to hit it, and how gratuity can be your biggest profit offset. Plus, one of these critical 7 is the terrifying metric every stylist needs to be tracking right now… Tune in and discover how tracking this handful of powerful metrics can transform you into a financially confident, high-earning solopreneur. Don't skip this one, because your next 6-figure year starts with these numbers (and don't forget to grab the fully customizable Stylists' Annual Service Revenue Tracker that I mention in this episode)! If you need a tool to keep your numbers (and business!) organized, you'll want to check out our Wealthiest Year Yet Planner. Get yours now at www.thrivingstylist.com/wealthiestyearyet/. The beauty industry is changing faster than ever. What worked in 2022 or even 2024 won't cut it in 2026, so are you ready? Grab our FREE 2026 TREND REPORT, The 2026 Must-Know Business Realities, Strategies & Trends for Stylists and Salon Owners now at https://thrivingstylist.com/mustknow/. Thriving Leadership Method hands salon owners a step-by-step strategy to implement an irresistible culture and create a powerful growth path…all while setting themselves up for structure and profit, and you can join the waitlist NOW at www.thrivingstylist.com/thrivingleadershipmethod/! With Grow My Clientele Calculator, you'll get instant clarity on how many new clients you'll need to hit your 2025 financial goals! Enter just four numbers, and this tool will show you exactly how many new guests you need monthly and yearly to reach your target income. No guesswork or complicated math required, and you can get it now at www.thrivingstylist.com/growmyclientele/. Do you have a question for me that you'd like answered in a future episode like this one? A great way to do that is to head over to Apple Podcasts and leave a rating and review with your question. I'm looking forward to answering your question on a future episode on the podcast! If you're not already following us, @thethrivingstylist, what are you waiting for? This is where I share pro tips every single week, along with winning strategies, testimonials, and amazing breakthroughs from my audience. You're not going to want to miss out on this. Learn more at: https://thrivingstylist.com/podcast/
A new year doesn't require a full reinvention, but it does require honesty.In this episode, I share a behind-the-scenes look at what's evolving inside The Monday Club, and the five questions every salon owner needs to ask at the start of the year if they want real growth (not just more busyness).This isn't about resolutions or vision boards.It's about who you need to become to run the business you actually want.Inside this episode, you'll hear:Why growth doesn't come from doing more, it comes from becoming differentThe invisible weight salon owners carry (and why systems matter more than motivation)What most salon owners are tolerating that's quietly draining themHow to spot where your business still depends too heavily on youThe 5 CEO-level questions every salon owner should be asking themselvesIf you've been feeling busy, stretched thin, or like your salon still needs you too much, this episode will help you see exactly where to focus next.Join The Monday Club:Where leadership, systems, and the compounding cash system come together, without the burnout.https://www.lexilomax.com/monday-club
Send us a textThe start of a new year often comes with pressure: new goals, new systems, new ideas, and a long list of things people think they should be doing. But more often than not, that approach creates chaos instead of clarity.In this episode, we talk about how to kick off a new year in your business without overcomplicating it. We break down why adding more isn't usually the answer, why pausing to assess matters more than rushing forward, and how clarity, simplicity, and focus create real momentum.We also discuss education, leadership, systems, and why so many businesses stay stuck repeating the same problems year after year. From writing things down instead of keeping them in your head, to choosing one problem to solve instead of ten, this episode is about building a stronger foundation before you try to build anything new.If you're entering the year feeling motivated but overwhelmed, this conversation will help you slow down, refocus, and move forward with intention, one step at a time.Key TakeawaysThe new year doesn't require more ideas — it requires clarity.Education, leadership, and systems should serve the people they impact.Simplicity is harder than complexity — and far more effective.Keeping things “in your head” guarantees confusion for your team.Written systems reduce repeated questions and owner burnout.Solving one problem well is better than touching ten problems poorly.Real change takes time, testing, and patience.Promises to your team only matter if they're delivered.Busy work creates noise; focused work creates progress.You don't need a full reset — you need a clear next step.Time Stamps00:00 — Welcome + first episode of 2026 01:00 — New year pressure and doing too much too fast 02:00 — Jen's opening take: education should serve others, not ego 04:00 — Todd's opening take: simplicity beats overwhelm in education 06:00 — Why “dazzling” people doesn't equal teaching 08:00 — Foundations matter more than advanced techniques 09:30 — Adding more vs assessing what already exists 11:00 — Getting ideas out of your head and onto paper 12:30 — Mission statements, SOPs, and clarity for teams 14:30 — Why teams get confused when systems aren't written 16:30 — Staff asking peers instead of owners (and why it happens) 18:00 — Choosing one problem to solve first 19:30 — Why slow progress is still progress 21:00 — How long real change actually takes 23:00 — What Hello Hair focused on last year 25:00 — Promises vs delivery and owner accountability 27:00 — Reordering priorities as the year unfolds 29:00 — Noise, trends, and low-impact decisions 31:00 — Why busy doesn't mean productive 33:00 — What actually grows a business 34:30 — One system, one number, one relationship 36:00 — Final thoughts: simplify, focus, and move intentionallyLinks and Stuff:Our Newsletter Mentoring InquiriesFind more of our things:InstagramHello Hair Pro Website
Dasha Minina, CEO and founder of Licensify, BeautyAList, and Maxus Nails, shares how her journey into beauty exposed critical gaps in technology, licensing, and consumer trust.This episode explores what it really takes to build the infrastructure the beauty industry has long been missing and why modern systems matter for professionals and consumers alike.Follow/subscribe to be the first to know when new episodes are released. Like what you hear? Leave us a review!Key Takeaways:
Are you working 60-hour weeks, juggling chair time with a second job, and still feeling like you're just hanging on by a thread? Stylists everywhere are asking if they're the only ones having to pick up a side hustle just to get by, and today, I want to shed light on what's happening right now in our industry and what exactly is going on. In this episode, we're cutting through the noise and revealing the single most profitable "second job" available to every stylist, and hint, it's a fully flexible, work-from-your-phone role that promises to double your income without requiring another second away from your family! Ready to stop serving plates and start fueling your true passion? Here you'll discover the one thing you need to apply for right now to accelerate your clientele, end the hustle cycle, and finally start scaling your career. If you need a tool to keep your numbers (and business!) organized, you'll want to check out our Wealthiest Year Yet Planner. Get yours now at www.thrivingstylist.com/wealthiestyearyet/. The beauty industry is changing faster than ever. What worked in 2022 or even 2024 won't cut it in 2026, so are you ready? Grab our FREE 2026 TREND REPORT, The 2026 Must-Know Business Realities, Strategies & Trends for Stylists and Salon Owners now at https://thrivingstylist.com/mustknow/. Thriving Leadership Method hands salon owners a step-by-step strategy to implement an irresistible culture and create a powerful growth path…all while setting themselves up for structure and profit, and you can join the waitlist NOW at www.thrivingstylist.com/thrivingleadershipmethod/! With Grow My Clientele Calculator, you'll get instant clarity on how many new clients you'll need to hit your 2025 financial goals! Enter just four numbers, and this tool will show you exactly how many new guests you need monthly and yearly to reach your target income. No guesswork or complicated math required, and you can get it now at www.thrivingstylist.com/growmyclientele/. Do you have a question for me that you'd like answered in a future episode like this one? A great way to do that is to head over to Apple Podcasts and leave a rating and review with your question. I'm looking forward to answering your question on a future episode on the podcast! If you're not already following us, @thethrivingstylist, what are you waiting for? This is where I share pro tips every single week, along with winning strategies, testimonials, and amazing breakthroughs from my audience. You're not going to want to miss out on this. Learn more at: https://thrivingstylist.com/podcast/
Send us a textThis is our final episode of 2025, and instead of predictions or tactics, we wanted to pause and reflect.We discuss what we've seen this year in the salon industry: the widening gap between growing and struggling businesses, the mindset shifts that set Tier-A salons apart, and why customer service, leadership, and long-term thinking matter more than ever.We share real stories from inside our salon, mentoring moments, client experiences, leadership decisions, and hard truths about where the industry is headed. We talk about gratitude, resilience, and why quitting too early often means missing the moment when things finally start to work.This episode is about perspective, patience, and staying human in an industry that sometimes forgets it's a service business.Your business should serve you, so that you can serve others. As we head into 2026, our message is simple: keep going.Key TakeawaysGratitude and consistency matter more than viral moments.Confidence is often the missing piece — not technical skill.Leadership includes teaching people how to succeed, not just telling them to try harder.Collaborative salons create better client experiences and stronger teams.The industry is splitting between businesses that evolve and businesses that blame.Customer service is becoming the ultimate competitive advantage.Short-term thinking destroys long-term opportunity.Grace builds loyalty faster than rigid policies.Leaders don't need all the answers — they need curiosity and resources.If you believe in what you're building, don't quit too early.Time Stamps00:00 — Welcome + final episode of 2025 01:00 — Todd's opening take: gratitude, not quitting too early 05:00 — Jen's opening take: leadership, confidence, and mentoring Piper 09:00 — Teaching confidence vs teaching technical skill 11:00 — Collaboration over scarcity with clients 14:00 — Industry reflection: struggling salons vs growing salons 17:00 — Customer service as the real differentiator 19:00 — The “artist over service” mindset problem 21:00 — Short-term thinking vs lifetime client value 24:00 — Grace, cancellation policies, and long-term loyalty 27:00 — Not needing all the answers as a leader 29:00 — Asking better questions, finding better resources 31:00 — What's coming to the podcast in 2026 33:00 — Final thoughts, gratitude, and closingLinks and Stuff:Our Newsletter Mentoring InquiriesFind more of our things:InstagramHello Hair Pro Website
In this episode, salon owner and color specialist Kimberly Christoph shares her 22-year journey from behind the chair to opening her own salon (Mane Street Georgetown) in DC. She speaks honestly about financial risk, long-term planning, continuous education, and how building with purpose shaped the kind of salon, culture, and experience she wanted to create.Follow/subscribe to be the first to know when new episodes are released. Like what you hear? Leave us a review!Key Takeaways:
2025 delivered some of the most defining lessons for Salon Owners. You'll hear the real talk that shifted owners from overwhelmed to empowered, from reactive to proactive, and from busy to intentional. Because something interesting happened this year. Across hundreds of salons, we kept seeing the same pattern play out… Some CEOs grew fast, confidently, almost effortlessly. Others stayed stuck - even though they were working just as hard. And most Salon Owners didn't notice it until the impact was already showing up in their team, their time, or their bank account. So what was the difference? Tune in to find out - the best advice and lessons from 2025 that shaped the strongest salon CEOs I've ever worked with. 3 Reasons to Listen: What really drives a client to chooseyoursalon (and it's not what you think)What moves your business when motivation dropsHow to get your team to stepforwardinstead of waiting Here are the full episodes of the advice featured: 11 Queen Moves You Need to Make in 2025 Why Your Salon Feels Stuck- And How to Fill Your Books Fast The Storm Is Here: Why Salons Are Struggling & What to Do About It Buy Back Your Time The CEO Shift You've Been Avoiding High Vibe, High Performance: Lift Team Morale Fast Why You're Babysitting Your Team and How to Stop P.s…. Do you want more profit, more confidence and a crystal-clear direction heading into 2026? We can make it happen ✨ Click here to book in your free Salon Strategy Call with Larissa before it's too late.
Are you feeling that exhaustion, that silent virus of burnout and resentment cutting through your salon? Maybe you're wondering why the joy and momentum of the pre-2020 industry seem gone, replaced by a deep, collective craving for the past? If so, then this one is for you. Today, I'm bringing you a slightly "woo-woo" mindset episode, and peeling back the layers on the Achilles heel that's crippling growth: our deep aversion to change. In this episode, I reveal a profound insight I had during my own reflection time, a real breakthrough moment for me, and I think it will be for you too. I'm challenging you with four uncomfortable, non-negotiable questions designed to snap you out of stagnation and start winning the game of change, and a whole lot more. As you listen, I want you to remember that you can't change anybody else and the only person you can change is you! You can change your perspective, your reaction, how you show up, and change is the only way to succeed. Holding on to the past will only cripple you, your business, and your life moving forward, and I hope this one helps shift your perspective as we move into 2026. If you need a tool to keep your numbers (and business!) organized, you'll want to check out our Wealthiest Year Yet Planner. Get yours now at www.thrivingstylist.com/wealthiestyearyet/. The beauty industry is changing faster than ever. What worked in 2022 or even 2024 won't cut it in 2026, so are you ready? Grab our FREE 2026 TREND REPORT, The 2026 Must-Know Business Realities, Strategies & Trends for Stylists and Salon Owners now at https://thrivingstylist.com/mustknow/. Thriving Leadership Method hands salon owners a step-by-step strategy to implement an irresistible culture and create a powerful growth path…all while setting themselves up for structure and profit, and you can join the waitlist NOW at www.thrivingstylist.com/thrivingleadershipmethod/! With Grow My Clientele Calculator, you'll get instant clarity on how many new clients you'll need to hit your 2025 financial goals! Enter just four numbers, and this tool will show you exactly how many new guests you need monthly and yearly to reach your target income. No guesswork or complicated math required, and you can get it now at www.thrivingstylist.com/growmyclientele/. Do you have a question for me that you'd like answered in a future episode like this one? A great way to do that is to head over to Apple Podcasts and leave a rating and review with your question. I'm looking forward to answering your question on a future episode on the podcast! If you're not already following us, @thethrivingstylist, what are you waiting for? This is where I share pro tips every single week, along with winning strategies, testimonials, and amazing breakthroughs from my audience. You're not going to want to miss out on this. Learn more at: https://thrivingstylist.com/podcast/
Salon owners know the power of social media but are they truly leading their team by example? In this episode, Jodie Brown shares how she went from hairstylist to marketing mentor, revealing the simple branding strategies that helped her grow her business and build real authority online. Together, we talk about how storytelling, specificity, and a bold personal voice can transform your salon's social presence and culture. You'll also learn two exciting ways to work with Jodie, including a transformational retreat in Italy designed to ignite your brand and your confidence! WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtu.be/alRhPLtyh50 GET MY BOOK! From First Date to Forever; How to Market Like A Matchmaker: https://joinmya.com/from-first-date-to-forever-book POWERED BY: JOIN mya! joinmya.com FOLLOW JODIE BROWN! Website: https://www.jodiebrown.ca/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/itsjodiebrown Podcast: https://www.jodiebrown.ca/podcast Retreat: https://www.escapetoelevate.com/ LET'S CONNECT! BTT Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beyondthetechnique MYA Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/join_mya/ FOLLOW KATI WHITLEDGE Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katiwhitledge/ Get my favorite bio-hacking products: CLICK HERE SPONSORS Join the PBA: https://www.probeauty.org/
Megahnn DeWees (@meg.citrinehair) is a Salon Owner, Extension Specialist, and Co-Founder of Citrine Hair & Skin here in Columbus, OH. If you've ever walked through the Franklinton Arts District in Columbus, Ohio, there's a good chance you've passed one of the coolest-looking salons in the city. Lots of plants, moss-covered walls, glowing neon, I'll say, unmistakable vibes. That space is Citrine Hair & Skin, and this week, I'm sitting down with one of the minds behind it all: Meghann DeWees! In this conversation, Meghann walks us through her journey into the world of hair, skin, and entrepreneurship. From breaking early industry misconceptions and even experimenting with makeup FX work in LA, to building a deeply supportive client community and opening Citrine in the middle of the pandemic. She talks candidly about surviving toxic hustle and grind culture, the realities of running a business, navigating motherhood alongside entrepreneurship, and the emotional responsibility that comes with helping people feel confident, comfortable, and seen. We also dive into her passion for extensions and hair loss solutions, the value of shared positive energy between stylist and client, and the evolving chapters of a creative career that refuses to stay in one box. Whether you work in cosmetology, are curious about salon life, or are building something of your own, this episode feels a little like a masterclass. Full of honest stories, grounded advice, and a reminder that success doesn't have to come at the cost of yourself! ----THIS EPISODE IS PARTNERED WITH: PromoWest Productions - @promowestlive For all upcoming shows & event info of who's coming through Columbus, OH, visit promowestlive.com or to purchase tickets directly, visit AXS.com Makers Social - @makers.social Maker's Social is a DIY Project Bar located in the Franklinton Arts District of Columbus, OH! To book a reservation, go to makerscolumbus.com.
Are you maximizing your salon's profit potential, or are you unintentionally leaving thousands on the table? Did you know the retail inventory on your shelves right now could be costing you? I consider this a can't-miss, strategic episode, and one that you just can't afford to skip! In this episode, I walk you through the critical, step-by-step exercise every single salon owner needs to complete before the year ends. This isn't just about counting bottles; this strategy will dramatically boost your tax savings, reveal the true health of your retail program, and instantly show you which products are dead weight and which are your Top 20 percent sellers. We'll also analyze your true sell-through rate and break down how retail commissions are crushing your net profit if you're over-stocked, and more. Since we're at the end of another year, NOW is the time to learn how to turn your secondary revenue stream into a profitable, healthy arm of your business! If you need a tool to keep your numbers (and business!) organized, you'll want to check out our Wealthiest Year Yet Planner. Get yours now at www.thrivingstylist.com/wealthiestyearyet/. The beauty industry is changing faster than ever. What worked in 2022 or even 2024 won't cut it in 2026, so are you ready? Grab our FREE 2026 TREND REPORT, The 2026 Must-Know Business Realities, Strategies & Trends for Stylists and Salon Owners now at https://thrivingstylist.com/mustknow/. Thriving Leadership Method hands salon owners a step-by-step strategy to implement an irresistible culture and create a powerful growth path…all while setting themselves up for structure and profit, and you can join the waitlist NOW at www.thrivingstylist.com/thrivingleadershipmethod/! With Grow My Clientele Calculator, you'll get instant clarity on how many new clients you'll need to hit your 2025 financial goals! Enter just four numbers, and this tool will show you exactly how many new guests you need monthly and yearly to reach your target income. No guesswork or complicated math required, and you can get it now at www.thrivingstylist.com/growmyclientele/. Do you have a question for me that you'd like answered in a future episode like this one? A great way to do that is to head over to Apple Podcasts and leave a rating and review with your question. I'm looking forward to answering your question on a future episode on the podcast! If you're not already following us, @thethrivingstylist, what are you waiting for? This is where I share pro tips every single week, along with winning strategies, testimonials, and amazing breakthroughs from my audience. You're not going to want to miss out on this. Learn more at: https://thrivingstylist.com/podcast/
Send us a textWe see it constantly: salon owners saying they're overwhelmed, stressed, exhausted, and unsure what to work on next. They're putting in the effort, working long hours, and still feeling behind, and it doesn't have to be that way.In this episode, we break down why overwhelm shows up so often for salon owners and why it's usually not a time or effort problem. We talk about bad advice, vague soundbites, echo chambers, and the pressure to do everything at once, and how all of that creates mental fatigue instead of progress.We also share practical ways to reduce overwhelm immediately: narrowing priorities, identifying what season your business is in, eliminating services and tasks that don't serve you, focusing on one problem at a time, and replacing multitasking with focused work that actually moves your business forward.Your business should serve you, so that you can serve others.If you're feeling overwhelmed, this episode will help you slow the noise, regain clarity, and take back control — one decision at a time.Key TakeawaysOverwhelm is usually a priority problem, not a workload problem.Vague advice and soundbites create confusion, not clarity.Multitasking increases stress and reduces meaningful progress.Focused work outperforms scattered effort.Small wins build momentum; something is always better than nothing.Simplifying services and tasks reduces mental load.Every business moves through seasons; you can't work on all of them at once.Money, people, demand, and systems are the most common constraints.Systems reduce chaos and decision fatigue over time.Overwhelm fades when clarity, focus, and ownership increase.Time Stamps00:00 — Why salon owners feel overwhelmed 01:00 — Jen's opening take: saying no, staying in your lane 04:00 — Todd's opening takes: technician vs owner + complacency 06:00 — Bad advice, soundbites, and industry echo chambers 09:00 — Why vague guidance creates paralysis 11:00 — Multitasking, task-switching, and mental fatigue 13:00 — Focused work blocks and the “accomplished list” 15:00 — Small wins > doing nothing 16:00 — Confirmation bias and online noise 18:00 — Eliminating services, simplifying menus, reducing friction 20:00 — Business seasons: growth, repair, stabilization, preparation 22:00 — Stop trying to do every season at once 23:00 — Common constraints: money, people, demand, systems 25:00 — Systems reduce chaos and decision fatigue 27:00 — Avoidance, uncomfortable tasks, and leadership growth 29:00 — Final thoughts: focus, clarity, one step forwardLinks and Stuff:Our Newsletter Mentoring InquiriesFind more of our things:InstagramHello Hair Pro Website
The salon industry is splitting in two. And the gap will only get bigger in 2026. On one side, you have Salon Owners stuck in the weeds, exhausted, overthinking every move, hoping “next year” will be different. On the other side, you have Salon CEOs who are quietly installing systems, building strong teams, and creating real freedom and profit. And it all comes down to just 3 core truths that almost every salon owner overlooks… until it's too late. Get clear on exactly what they are in this week's episode with Larissa and Joel. 3 reasons to listen Understand why the GAP between salons is about to widen (faster than anyone realises..)Discover the invisible habits shaping your 2026 results right nowThe one shift you need to make like aTop 1% Salon Owner Which side of the Salon Industry are you going to find yourself next year? Are you ready to feed your ambitions and rise to the challenge? Want to lock in the strategy, the systems, and the support you need - so you can have the freedom and profit of Salon CEOs? ✨Apply for Salon Mastery and build your million-dollar roadmap with us. We only accept 5 new Salon Owners at a time… So if you're generating over $10K in revenue and are ambitious & ready to reach the next level, click here to find out more and see if you're eligible.
Maybe your business is at a 15-year low due to the recent government shutdown, tech layoffs, or the painful "groceries vs. grooming" dilemma clients are facing? Or you may find yourself sacrificing your profit margin by slashing prices just to survive, only to create a "slippery slope" that leads to resentment. The service industry is facing massive uncertainty, and this is leaving many stylists feeling completely out of control, but we've got something to help…. In this episode, I'm joined by a special guest, Thrivers Certified Coach Nine, as we unveil a revolutionary, recession-proof strategy: the Beauty Community Fund. Learn how to finally insulate your income, activate your community's desire to help, and ensure your business catches the fall. We dive deep into the specific logistics, including setting up opt-in donations, securing powerful brand partnerships, implementing monthly "share backs" for trust, and the 5 critical steps to launch this fund simply and professionally, plus more. Stop reacting to the economy and start thriving as THE indispensable resource in your community. If you implement this strategy, make sure to share your success story with Coach Nine as we want to hear all about it! If you need a tool to keep your numbers (and business!) organized, you'll want to check out our Wealthiest Year Yet Planner. Get yours now at www.thrivingstylist.com/wealthiestyearyet/. The beauty industry is changing faster than ever. What worked in 2022 or even 2024 won't cut it in 2026, so are you ready? Grab our FREE 2026 TREND REPORT, The 2026 Must-Know Business Realities, Strategies & Trends for Stylists and Salon Owners now at https://thrivingstylist.com/mustknow/. Thriving Leadership Method hands salon owners a step-by-step strategy to implement an irresistible culture and create a powerful growth path…all while setting themselves up for structure and profit, and you can join the waitlist NOW at www.thrivingstylist.com/thrivingleadershipmethod/! With Grow My Clientele Calculator, you'll get instant clarity on how many new clients you'll need to hit your 2025 financial goals! Enter just four numbers, and this tool will show you exactly how many new guests you need monthly and yearly to reach your target income. No guesswork or complicated math required, and you can get it now at www.thrivingstylist.com/growmyclientele/. Do you have a question for me that you'd like answered in a future episode like this one? A great way to do that is to head over to Apple Podcasts and leave a rating and review with your question. I'm looking forward to answering your question on a future episode on the podcast! If you're not already following us, @thethrivingstylist, what are you waiting for? This is where I share pro tips every single week, along with winning strategies, testimonials, and amazing breakthroughs from my audience. You're not going to want to miss out on this. Learn more at: https://thrivingstylist.com/podcast/
Are you happy with your business right now? I mean, truly happy? Are you making emotional decisions that are costing you real money and growth? If you wait until January to plan your year, you've already lost 20 percent of your earning potential, but it doesn't have to be this way. Today, I cut through the noise and deliver a no-fluff, 8-step framework designed to totally transform your 2026 revenue, because business, and life as a whole, shouldn't be just about surviving. So, let's make the tactical moves right now to create your most successful, efficient, and thriving year yet. If you've never done annual planning before this episode is a great place to start, and make sure to download the free PDF support tool at www.thrivingstylist.com/eightsteps to follow along and help guide you towards your brand-new year! If you need a tool to keep your numbers (and business!) organized, you'll want to check out our Wealthiest Year Yet Planner. Get yours now at www.thrivingstylist.com/wealthiestyearyet/. The beauty industry is changing faster than ever. What worked in 2022 or even 2024 won't cut it in 2026, so are you ready? Grab our FREE 2026 TREND REPORT, The 2026 Must-Know Business Realities, Strategies & Trends for Stylists and Salon Owners now at https://thrivingstylist.com/mustknow/. Thriving Leadership Method hands salon owners a step-by-step strategy to implement an irresistible culture and create a powerful growth path…all while setting themselves up for structure and profit, and you can join the waitlist NOW at www.thrivingstylist.com/thrivingleadershipmethod/! With Grow My Clientele Calculator, you'll get instant clarity on how many new clients you'll need to hit your 2025 financial goals! Enter just four numbers, and this tool will show you exactly how many new guests you need monthly and yearly to reach your target income. No guesswork or complicated math required, and you can get it now at www.thrivingstylist.com/growmyclientele/. Do you have a question for me that you'd like answered in a future episode like this one? A great way to do that is to head over to Apple Podcasts and leave a rating and review with your question. I'm looking forward to answering your question on a future episode on the podcast! If you're not already following us, @thethrivingstylist, what are you waiting for? This is where I share pro tips every single week, along with winning strategies, testimonials, and amazing breakthroughs from my audience. You're not going to want to miss out on this. Learn more at: https://thrivingstylist.com/podcast/
Is it really possible to take home six figures, a $100,000 after-tax income, without relying on extensions, hiring an assistant, or the hustle of double booking? Today, we're diving deep into the math and the mindset behind building a streamlined, highly profitable solo stylist business without the "extras!" When the average family of four needs over $200,000 just to be comfortable in major U.S. cities, the vision of the industry as "supplemental income" is over. Your income is critical, and the pressure to achieve is real. Stop the grind and start scaling your core services with confidence; this episode will reveal what you need to learn to make great money your way! If you need a tool to keep your numbers (and business!) organized, you'll want to check out our Wealthiest Year Yet Planner. Get yours now at www.thrivingstylist.com/wealthiestyearyet/! The beauty industry is changing faster than ever. What worked in 2022 or even 2024 won't cut it in 2026, so are you ready? Grab our FREE 2026 TREND REPORT, The 2026 Must-Know Business Realities, Strategies & Trends for Stylists and Salon Owners now at https://thrivingstylist.com/mustknow/. Thriving Leadership Method hands salon owners a step-by-step strategy to implement an irresistible culture and create a powerful growth path…all while setting themselves up for structure and profit, and you can join the waitlist NOW at www.thrivingstylist.com/thrivingleadershipmethod/! With Grow My Clientele Calculator, you'll get instant clarity on how many new clients you'll need to hit your 2025 financial goals! Enter just four numbers, and this tool will show you exactly how many new guests you need monthly and yearly to reach your target income. No guesswork or complicated math required, and you can get it now at www.thrivingstylist.com/growmyclientele/. Do you have a question for me that you'd like answered in a future episode like this one? A great way to do that is to head over to Apple Podcasts and leave a rating and review with your question. I'm looking forward to answering your question on a future episode on the podcast! If you're not already following us, @thethrivingstylist, what are you waiting for? This is where I share pro tips every single week, along with winning strategies, testimonials, and amazing breakthroughs from my audience. You're not going to want to miss out on this. Learn more at: https://thrivingstylist.com/podcast/
Can a consistent stream of recurring revenue solve your cyclical business struggles? It sounds like the dream: improved client retention, a predictable paycheck, and less worry. But hold up; before you jump on the latest viral trend promising a membership model solution, you need to hear this! Today, I break down the hot topic of Salon Memberships and why most advice you see online (including that viral video!) is flat-out illegal and logistically impossible for a service-based business. Don't risk a legal nightmare or unnecessary administrative hassle; listen now to find out if memberships are truly worth the trouble for your salon business. And, if you decide to pull the trigger on starting a membership, make sure to let us know as we'd love to hear how it all comes together! If you need a tool to keep your numbers (and business!) organized, you'll want to check out our Wealthiest Year Yet Planner. Get yours now at www.thrivingstylist.com/wealthiestyearyet/! The beauty industry is changing faster than ever. What worked in 2022 or even 2024 won't cut it in 2026, so are you ready? Grab our FREE 2026 TREND REPORT, The 2026 Must-Know Business Realities, Strategies & Trends for Stylists and Salon Owners now at https://thrivingstylist.com/mustknow/. Thriving Leadership Method hands salon owners a step-by-step strategy to implement an irresistible culture and create a powerful growth path…all while setting themselves up for structure and profit, and you can join the waitlist NOW at www.thrivingstylist.com/thrivingleadershipmethod/! With Grow My Clientele Calculator, you'll get instant clarity on how many new clients you'll need to hit your 2025 financial goals! Enter just four numbers, and this tool will show you exactly how many new guests you need monthly and yearly to reach your target income. No guesswork or complicated math required, and you can get it now at www.thrivingstylist.com/growmyclientele/. Do you have a question for me that you'd like answered in a future episode like this one? A great way to do that is to head over to Apple Podcasts and leave a rating and review with your question. I'm looking forward to answering your question on a future episode on the podcast! If you're not already following us, @thethrivingstylist, what are you waiting for? This is where I share pro tips every single week, along with winning strategies, testimonials, and amazing breakthroughs from my audience. You're not going to want to miss out on this. Learn more at: https://thrivingstylist.com/podcast/
What if I told you that strategically lowering your prices could be the smartest financial move you make this year? Every stylist comes to me wanting to raise their rates, but the truth is, sometimes you are simply overpriced for your market. If you are experiencing a drop in demand or struggling to keep your long-term clients, you have to diagnose the real issue before making a knee-jerk mistake. Today, we are having the conversation you never hear: When is it actually appropriate to decrease your prices? This is something I've never talked about on the podcast before, and I'm revealing the big questions you must answer before changing a single price. Most importantly, I'll share the key mistake I made in my own salon and show you exactly how to insulate your business with a marketing plan and confident client verbiage, ensuring you secure your market position and come out financially ahead. Let's stop guessing on pricing and start strategizing! If you need a tool to keep your numbers (and business!) organized, you'll want to check out our Wealthiest Year Yet Planner. Get yours now at www.thrivingstylist.com/wealthiestyearyet/! The beauty industry is changing faster than ever. What worked in 2022 or even 2024 won't cut it in 2026, so are you ready? Grab our FREE 2026 TREND REPORT, The 2026 Must-Know Business Realities, Strategies & Trends for Stylists and Salon Owners now at https://thrivingstylist.com/mustknow/. Thriving Leadership Method hands salon owners a step-by-step strategy to implement an irresistible culture and create a powerful growth path…all while setting themselves up for structure and profit, and you can join the waitlist NOW at www.thrivingstylist.com/thrivingleadershipmethod/! With Grow My Clientele Calculator, you'll get instant clarity on how many new clients you'll need to hit your 2025 financial goals! Enter just four numbers, and this tool will show you exactly how many new guests you need monthly and yearly to reach your target income. No guesswork or complicated math required, and you can get it now at www.thrivingstylist.com/growmyclientele/. Do you have a question for me that you'd like answered in a future episode like this one? A great way to do that is to head over to Apple Podcasts and leave a rating and review with your question. I'm looking forward to answering your question on a future episode on the podcast! If you're not already following us, @thethrivingstylist, what are you waiting for? This is where I share pro tips every single week, along with winning strategies, testimonials, and amazing breakthroughs from my audience. You're not going to want to miss out on this. Learn more at: https://thrivingstylist.com/podcast/