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Grow My Salon Business Podcast (Antony Whitaker)

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04 Jan 2022122 What will 2022 hold for you, what’s the obvious next step?00:21:52

I often reflect on how lucky I am to interview lots of great people on this podcast and to have in-depth conversations with such a diverse range of people that have a story to tell and often have a unique area of expertise to share. 

I’ve always said that it’s a great privilege that I have to be able to ask the guests that I have on this show the questions that I do and to get them to open up so that you the listener - and me, the host - can understand and learn something that perhaps we didn’t yet know.

Often, the guests on the podcast will also mention the people that have mentored them, trained and inspired them, and that have managed them on their journey.

For our listeners on their own journeys, these stories can inspire them to look at taking the next step in their professional careers.  And for many, they may feel their next obvious step is to open a salon business of their own. 

Regardless of the career path we choose to take, it is a journey. And like all journeys where and when it starts, and what direction it takes and the opportunities along the way are what makes life exciting.

Some of you will be nearer the beginning of your professional journey and some of you may be nearer the end. But regardless of where you are, there are always opportunities to grow and get better at what you do.

At the beginning of every year, many of us have time to reflect on the past year and plan for opportunities for the coming year.

Sometimes those plans and the questions we ask ourselves revolve around getting better at what we do as owners and managers, for other people those questions might be, “Is now the time to open your own salon?”

So, in this episode I talk about:

  • Questions around the subject of salon ownership or management
  • The myths of salon ownership
  • What it takes to be a successful salon owner and manager

And lots more!

In this Episode:

 

[02:50] An introduction to today’s topic: questions we may ask ourselves about salon ownership or management.

[04:10] Antony discusses the misconceptions many believe when becoming a salon owner.

[05:20] This is the reality about opening a business as the inevitable next step.

[06:35] Does salon ownership give more freedom and time off?

[08:31] These are the hidden bosses when you become your own boss.

[09:16] Antony reveals whether salon owners make more money.

[10:40] Cutting and colouring hair require completely different skills than running a business.

[12:18] Continuing education in all areas of the salon business is critical for success.

[13:28] The difference between being a leader and being a manager, according to Antony.

[15:30] People are not born to be great managers.  Management is a skill that is learned.

[17:15] We learn how to be more successful with New Year’s Resolutions. 

[19:10] How to get the clarity, structure, support, strategy, assistance, and community needed to become the best manager and salon business owner possible.

 

Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated! 

They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast.

I also love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast! Just click here to review, scroll to the bottom, tap “Ratings and Reviews” tap to rate with 5 stars and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favourite part of the podcast is. Thank you for your support!

 

Links and Resources:

Grow My Salon Business

Website | Facebook | Instagram

04 Jun 2024247 A Career in Barbering with Hayden Cassidy00:43:16

When one door closes another door opens. Success and setback are two sides of the same coin but it takes a strong personality, self belief and determination to bounce back. 


A couple of years ago I was at 'Salon International’ in London and there was a young barber on stage who was not only doing great work but she also had an infectious personality, combined with an amazing level of energy and confidence that made her stand out from the crowd. 


So today, I'm really happy to have Hayden Cassidy as a guest on the show. 


In today’s podcast, we discuss:

  • The attitude and belief that you need to have in life in order to overcome setbacks and succeed.
  • The opportunities that a career in barbering can bring about, including being the first Dior Grooming Expert in the UK
  • The evolving business model of today’s barbershop

And lots more!


For full show notes, links and resources mentioned visit: https://growmysalonbusiness.com/podcast/247/ 


Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated!

They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast. I also love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast!

Just click here to review, scroll to the bottom, tap “Ratings and Reviews” tap to rate with 5 stars and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favourite part of the podcast is. Thank you for your support!

And finally, don’t forget to subscribe to the show to get automatic updates.

Got a question you want answered on the podcast? DM me your question over on Instagram or just come on over to connect at: https://www.instagram.com/growmysalonbusiness/

03 Mar 2020029 What Does It Take To Be A Global Colour Ambassador?01:00:16

One of the things I love about this industry is the opportunities that there are for people to evolve into different areas of hairdressing if they wish to.

Don’t get me wrong; there is absolutely nothing wrong with being 100% focused behind the chair as a stylist or a colourist and building up a salon clientele. Or maybe even opening up your own salon.

But for some people, their journey takes them in other directions as an educator, or to various other opportunities within product companies.

My guest today is one of those people. His name is Colin Caruso, and he is the owner of Caru Salon in New Jersey and is now also Artistic Director of Professional Hair Color for John Paul Mitchell Systems.

In today’s podcast, we will discuss:

  • Color Consultations
  • Sustainability
  • Social Media
  • ‘Style Trip’ and the importance of storytelling

 

In This Episode:

[01:26] Welcome to the show, Colin!

[01:48] Colin discusses his family, background, and what his priorities are.

[02:49] Colin describes his job at John Paul Mitchell Systems and what it involves.

[04:45] How do you balance owning a salon, being an educator, traveling, and your family?

[07:26] Colin believes that balance is all about asking yourself what you are looking for and what is essential.

[09:34] What advice would you give someone who wants to own a salon, be an educator, and how to balance it all?

[11:50] Colin speaks about being in his salon a couple of days a week and the fact that he still has a few clients.

[14:42] Antony and Colin discuss client consultations and how important they are to get to know what your client wants.

[17:59] What is your definition of a client consultation?

[20:50] Colin shares the questions he asks during a consultation so that he can see hair the way the guest does.

[24:48] Colin speaks about the way he prices services in his salon and what he sees in the industry.

[27:16] Colin says that it costs more to charge more, he loves doing hair, and he would do it for free.

[29:43] What are your thoughts on online color companies? The home hair color industry?

[32:08] Colin shares an exercise he did at his salon recently and believes every salon should ask the questions.

[33:47] Colin speaks about the different generations that are working together under one roof and how different each generation communicates.

[37:16] How has social media impacted your business? Have you embraced it?

[40:26] Colin believes that social media is an honest way to communicate and gives choices to individuals.

[44:00] From a salon owner’s perspective, how do you manage the social media usage of your team?

[46:28] Colin shares about ‘Style Trip,’ a passion project he started years ago that focuses on hairdressers in different parts of the U.S.

[49:22] When you go somewhere, do you sit in your hotel room instead of exploring and experiencing the fantastic local places?

[51:18] Colin says that ‘Style Trip’ is about community, art, and inspiration.

[54:57] Colin shares a story about Guy Fieri at a location where they were both shooting their shows.

[58:30] Thank you, Antony, for coaching my team and me.

[59:19] If you have enjoyed this episode, please share it.

[59:47] Colin, thank you so much for being on the show!

 

Links and Resources

 Grow My Salon Business 


Find Colin

 Colin Caruso

Salon Caru

@colin.caruso1

Facebook

@colincaruso

Instagram 

@colin-caruso

LinkedIn

John Paul Mitchell Systems

 Youtube

11 May 2021089 Clubhouse Conversations: Hairdressers and Environmental Impact01:01:13

Today's podcast is a little different than usual, I thought we could mix it up a bit by not having my normal format of interviewing one guest on the show but instead sharing a recording of a Clubhouse event that I did a couple of weeks back.

This episode features James Alba, a New Jersey-based salon owner of the Bhive Salon, Fry Taylor from the UK, a Co-Founder of Green Salon Collective, and Mark Budihas from Green Circle Salons.

Listen in as we discuss how hairdressers can help save the planet by making decisions that reduce their environmental impact. by making small changes to how they think about not just the waste that we generate but also by supporting other businesses that have sound green credentials.

 

In This Episode:

[01:31] Welcome to the room!

[02:12] How Hairdressers Can Help Save the Planet is the topic of today’s conversation.

[05:24] James, what are some simple things that salons can do to take some eco steps?

[07:54] Mark discusses some things that salons need to change.

[10:24] Fry speaks about some things that the Green Salon Collective is doing to recycle the waste streams in their salons.

[14:21] Fry talks about some of the positive things they have seen in the UK.

[16:26] Mark agrees with what Fry said and shares some things he has seen.

[18:45] Mark, do you believe it is a more generational thing? 

[21:21] James speaks about what going green looks like for a salon’s bottom line.

[23:44] James talks about social media and how his posts have impacted his clients.

[25:56] Fry shares the resistance points he has come across with salon owners in the UK.

[27:48] Mark says the resistance he hears is about the space in the salon.

[31:04] Mark talks about fees and the idea of charging more for services to make going green work.

[34:26] Fry, do you like to include the fee in the price or keep it separate?

[36:24] James says they use a hybrid of both, including the fee and keeping it separate.

[38:59] Mark discusses two things that salons can do right now.

[40:38] Fry speaks about checking out the people you do business with.

[43:06] Fry talks about an oil spill they had where he lives in Ireland and how the Green Salon Collective helped contain the oil with hair booms.

[46:00] What is the key to making going green sexy? How do you sell it?

[51:50] Fry shares how important it is for salons to be affiliated with product brands that are eco-friendly and more sustainable.

[54:17] Mark talks about product manufacturers helping to drive the movement.

[57:05] James speaks about where he believes salons will look like ten years from now.

[58:00] Fry shares what he thinks the salons of the future will look like.

[58:57] Mark talks about what he believes salons will look like in ten years.

[1:00:08] Thank you guys for being on the show!

 

Links and Resources

Grow My Salon Business

Club House @antonywhitaker

Kiss the ground movie

Seaspiracy

Green Circle Salons

Green Salon Collective

James Alba

 

19 Sep 2023210 Hairdressing Live and the Future of Online Education with Paul Davey00:54:11

 Online education has grown exponentially over the last few years, and online education in the hairdressing space is no exception.

  

 This is one episode in a series of podcasts that will focus on the various forms of online education in the world of hairdressing.

  

 My guest on today's podcast is Dublin-based Paul Davey, a hairdresser, salon owner, and the founder of Hairdressing Live, one of the first online education platforms to make a real impact in the space.

  

 In today’s podcast, we will discuss:

  

 -    What exactly Hairdressing Live is

 -    What makes it different from other online platforms

 -    What Paul sees as the future of education…

  

 And lots more!

 

For full show notes, links and resources mentioned visit: https://growmysalonbusiness.com/podcast/210/

 

Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated!  

They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast. I also love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast!  

Just click here to review, scroll to the bottom, tap “Ratings and Reviews” tap to rate with 5 stars and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favourite part of the podcast is. Thank you for your support! 

And finally, don’t forget to subscribe to the show to get automatic updates. 

Got a question you want answered on the podcast? DM me your question over on Instagram or just come on over to connect at: https://www.instagram.com/growmysalonbusiness/

01 Apr 2025289 Standing Behind the Chair is Where it All Comes Together.00:09:38


In this week’s episode, I share a recent conversation I had with a Chicago-based stylist who is one of those rare people who is continually looking for those 1% improvements that separate good stylists from exceptional ones.


I talk about why it’s essential that salon owners invest in training their team beyond just technical skills.


Despite all the time, energy, and financial commitment you make as the salon owner, the real success of your business comes together when the stylist is standing behind the chair. 


That's where the magic either happens or not…


As a salon owner, stop leaving the success of that interaction between client and stylist to chance. Instead, either invest in or develop your own comprehensive training programs that cover communication skills, client service, and the mindset needed for sustained success.

 

IN THIS EPISODE:

 

[00:00] Welcome and introduction

[00:45] Introducing Rita and the Super Stylist course

[01:49] Questions for salon owners about team training

[03:33] Where the rubber meets the road: The critical client interaction

[04:14] Introduction to Rita's story and my initial assumptions

[05:14] The surprising reality of Rita's experience and mindset

[05:58] Communication distinctions that matter with clients

[06:49] Rita's approach to continuous improvement

[07:47] What inspires me about stylists like Rita

[08:51] Information about the Super Stylist course

 

 

Want MORE to help you GROW?

 

📚 Check out our Bestselling GROW Books https://growmysalonbusiness.com/books/

🆘 Management overwhelm!? Download our free checklist! This checklist will help you get clarity on where you're at https://growmysalonbusiness.com/management-checklist/

 

 

RATINGS + REVIEWS

 

🙏Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated! 
 
They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast.

👉 Here's what you do:

- On your phone,Click here  (Read steps below first)

- Scroll down to 'Ratings & Reviews'

- Tap on the empty purple stars and rate 5 stars

- Click on ‘Write a Review’ I love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast! Thank you for your support! 🙏

Until next time!
 Antony

 

 

RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

 

The Online Super Stylist course

 

 

👉 FOLLOW US!

Instagram | Facebook | Website

 

02 Aug 2022152 Paying the ‘Profit First’ with Ronit Enos01:06:28

The sustainability of a business is dependent on profit, yet many businesses operate on a tiny profit margin. Ultimately, that is why only a very small percentage of small businesses reach their 10th birthday. 

Most business failures can be attributed to a lack of financial awareness and understanding of how to manage finances. Too many salon owners operate on the basis of “work hard, pay my bills, and what's left over is profit.”

However, that way of thinking is fundamentally flawed because, in case you haven’t noticed, there is usually very little left over!

So instead of the traditional accounting method of ‘Sales minus expenses equals profit,’ we should be turning this on its head and running businesses on the ‘Profit First’ principle; ‘Sales minus profit equals expenses.’

If you’re confused, stick around because my guest on today's podcast is Ronit Enos, Author of the book ‘Profit First for Salons.’

In today’s podcast, we discuss:

  • Profit margins in salons today
  • The steps to increasing profitability
  • The ‘Profit First for Salons’ book…

And lots more!

For full show notes, links and resources mentioned visit: https://growmysalonbusiness.com/podcast/152/ 

Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated! 

They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast. I also love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast! 

Just click here to review, scroll to the bottom, tap “Ratings and Reviews” tap to rate with 5 stars and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favourite part of the podcast is. Thank you for your support!

And finally, don’t forget to subscribe to the show to get automatic updates.

Got a question you want answered on the podcast? DM me your question over on Instagram or just come on over to connect at: https://www.instagram.com/growmysalonbusiness/

18 Oct 2022163 Business Lessons from A Small-Town Salon Success Story with Jennifer Akers00:48:28

This week on the podcast, I am talking with Jennifer Akers from Hollywood Hair, a salon group that is located in three small towns across the United States. I love talking to Jennifer and her team at Hollywood hair because I always learn from them, and today is no exception!

Often times it’s the really big, high-profile hairdressers with celebrity clientele who come up with innovative new ways of working and get acknowledged for being successful business-wise. But as the Hollywood Hair story illustrates, success can come in all shapes and sizes!

Today we are going to talk about a whole range of topics that cover what makes a salon business successful, and whether you have a small salon with just 1 or 2 team members or a chain of salons, I will guarantee that you will learn something from this conversation.

So, without further ado, welcome to Jennifer Akers from Hollywood Hair…

 

In this Episode:

[02:34] How Hollywood Hair has grown since its opening in 1994. 

[03:32] An overview of the employment model that is utilized at Hollywood Hair.

[04:36] The sizes of the towns where the three Hollywood Hair salons are situated, and the target market of each salon. 

[07:45] Jennifer shares some numbers highlighting the high productivity levels being achieved by Hollywood Hair.

[10:55] The percentage of Hollywood Hair’s total sales that comes from retail.

[12:05] Factors that are contributing to the growth of Hollywood Hair’s retail sector.

[14:26] What the Trello app is and how it adds value to Hollywood Hair. 

[19:25] Benefits of the online consultation forms that Hollywood Hair uses.

[21:15] Where the idea for the Hollywood Hair treatment cart originated. 

[24:03] The role of the Hollywood Hair concierge. 

[25:49] Examples of the unusually wide range of beverages that are available at Hollywood Hair. 

[27:32] What Hollywood Hair’s virtual assistant is responsible for. 

[31:09] Benefits of the Hollywood Hair app.  

[34:04] The different levels that make up the career path of a Hollywood Hair stylist. 

[41:46] Jennifer explains how the Hollywood Hair partnership model works.

[43:59] The intentions behind the morning huddles and evening celebrations that  take place at each of the Hollywood Hair salons.

 

Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated!  

They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast. 

I also love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast! Just click here to review, scroll to the bottom, tap “Ratings and Reviews” tap to rate with 5 stars and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favourite part of the podcast is. Thank you for your support! 

Special thanks to Jennifer for sharing her insights with me for this week’s episode. Until next time! 

Antony

 

Links and Resources:

Grow My Salon Business 

Website | Facebook | Instagram

 

Hollywood Hair Salon

Website | Instagram |  Facebook |  App

 

Trello

Website

 

WePhone

Website

19 Apr 2022137 Creating a Salon Experience that Reflects Your Sense of Style with Greg Ruggeri and Craig Longhurst01:03:17

Like many of you, I will sometimes spend time scrolling through Instagram and occasionally a salon design will stop me in my tracks… 

 

This is the case with Salon Ruggeri based in NYC. Every time I see an image they have posted, it’s always of a beautifully put together and very stylish salon space that breaks the cookie-cutter salon design mould and gives you a peek into the world and the style of the salon owners. 

 

It always makes me want to just go and hang out there because I know it will be a great experience and a luxury treat for the senses, as well as great hair!

 

So my guest on today's Podcast is Greg Ruggeri and his husband Craig Longhurst from Salon Ruggeri in New York.

 

In this episode we discuss:

  • The client experience
  • The importance of attention to detail
  • The meaning of style  

And so much more!

 

 

 

In this Episode:

 

[02:39] A brief overview of what Greg and Craig’s joint journey in the salon industry has looked like to date.  

[04:05] Greg shares what motivated him to become a hairdresser while he was still in school. 

[09:14] How Craig and Greg made their first salon, which was based in Sydney, stand out.

[11:32] Factors which drove Greg and Craig to move from Sydney to New York in 2010. 

[18:41] Creative methods that Craig and Greg used to build up their client base in New York. 

[24:40] The award Greg received during his first year in New York, and the growth that Salon Ruggeri experienced over the months that followed. 

[30:23] Why Greg chose to bring injectables into the salon. 

[33:31] Craig’s approach to designing a salon.

[39:42] Why everything in Greg and Craig’s third salon was for sale.

[42:13] The look and feel of the current Salon Ruggeri space. 

[45:12] Greg explains why he decided to further his trichology education when the COVID-19 pandemic began.

[49:52] Emotional unloading that commonly occurs in a salon setting, and how Greg has gone the extra mile to provide his clients with support. 

[53:22] Mixed feelings that Greg has towards social media.  

[56:35] How Craig and Greg define style. 

[59:08] Greg and Craig share their thoughts on the salon suite model.  

 

Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated! 

They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast. 

I also love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast! Just click here to review, scroll to the bottom, tap “Ratings and Reviews” tap to rate with 5 stars and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favourite part of the podcast is. Thank you for your support! 

Special thanks to Greg and Craig for sharing their story with me for this week’s episode. Until next time! 

Antony

 

Links and Resources:

 

Grow My Salon Business 

 

Website | Facebook | Instagram

 

Salon Ruggeri

 

Website | Facebook | Instagram

 

23 May 2023193 The Five Stages of Growing a Salon Business.00:15:19

Which of the five business stages are you and your salon business currently in? What is the vision that you have for your business? And what is currently holding you back from making it a reality?

 

Building and running a business is a journey, and like all journeys, it will be filled with challenges (and hopefully triumphs). Unfortunately, many businesses fail before they even really get going; don’t let yours be one of them!

 

There are five clear stages in the game of building a business, and in this episode, I run through what it takes to successfully get through each of them and make it to the next.

 

For full show notes, links and resources mentioned visit: https://growmysalonbusiness.com/podcast/193/ 

 

Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated!  

They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast. I also love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast!  

Just click here to review, scroll to the bottom, tap “Ratings and Reviews” tap to rate with 5 stars and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favourite part of the podcast is. Thank you for your support! 

And finally, don’t forget to subscribe to the show to get automatic updates. 

Got a question you want answered on the podcast? DM me your question over on Instagram or just come on over to connect at: https://www.instagram.com/growmysalonbusiness/

17 Aug 2021103 Let’s talk about the pricing of salon services.01:06:04

The 3 P’s ‘Pricing, Productivity and Pay’ are always interlinked and hot topics of interest no matter what size salon or where you live.

Last month I hosted a room on Clubhouse with my guest Michael Cole, and the topic of conversation centred around the ‘pricing of salon services’.

I think that it’s an interesting episode that salon owners everywhere will enjoy.

In this Episode:

[0:00:43] An introduction to today’s topic, pricing, and guest, Michael Cole.

[0:02:18] A quote from Michael which sums up the business side of hairdressing. 

[0:03:04] Extremes on both ends of the salon pricing scale. 

[0:05:05] Debunking the misconception that hairdressers who charge the most generate the most revenue. 

[0:07:29] The model that Michael has developed to help hairdressers deal with the awkward issue of pricing.

[0:09:08] Where you can access the chart that Michael created which will help you with your pricing issues. 

[0:11:28] How hairdressing pricing systems have changed over the years.

[0:12:30] Michael explains how his pricing chart works.   

[0:15:00] The ease at which you can figure out average household income, and the algorithm that will tell you what hairdressers should charge in that area. 

[0:16:35] Metrics that Michael looks at to determine if a salon is using the right pricing structure. 

[0:18:38] Elements, other than the dollar value of your time, that are vital to take into account when structuring your prices.

[0:20:22] The rapidly emerging salon trends being driven by Generation Z.   

[0:22:41] Examples of the amounts of money that Gen Z hairdressers are bringing in. 

[0:23:52] Why Michael loves Gen Z’s.  

[0:26:44] A recap of the metrics that Michael thinks are most important for salons to track.

[0:30:25] A phenomenon that Michael has noticed amongst Gen Z’s. 

[0:32:42] Two of the major issues that older, more traditional salon owners are experiencing. 

[0:32:20] How Gen Z’s interview their potential employers.   

[0:35:07] Michael’s desire to help salon owners, and some of the feedback that he has received. 

[0:36:44] Michael’s opinion of a peak demand system for salons.   

[0:37:55] Why the internet is the most relevant business element in today’s world. 

[0:40:36] What Michael feels about hairdressers separating the cost of the product and the cost of the labour.

[0:42:53] One of the biggest challenges that hairdressers face when working out what to charge clients.  

[0:45:51] Charging for time versus charging for service; Michael weighs in. 

[0:48:32] Why hairdressers need to let go of the traditional ways of running a salon.  

[0:49:08] Where you can hear more about the charging-for-time model. 

[0:50:19] The shared opinion that Michael and I have on the best way to let clients know about price adjustments.

[0:55:12] What Michael has learned from interviewing young salon owners. 

[0:57:36] New consciousness that exists in the hairdressing industry. 

[01:02:10] Final thoughts from Michael and I about the importance of keeping an open mind.

 

Links and Resources:

 

Grow My Salon Business

Club House @antonywhitaker 

Instagram | Facebook

 

Michael Cole

 Instagram |  Facebook

 

15 Sep 2020055 What Does it Really Take to Become One of The Top Editorial Stylists Today?01:05:33

My journey in hairdressing has been incredibly rewarding at lots of levels. But one thing I never take for granted is the people I have come to know and the friendships I have made in this industry along the way. 

We are living through challenging times, and I think it's at times like this that the importance of people, of community, of friendships, of bonding, and engaging with each other is more important than ever. 

My guest today is 'Duffy', one of the world's leading editorial hairstylists. Currently based in New York Duffy works with many of the biggest fashion brands in the world creating cutting edge hair. He's also a good friend of mine that I have had the pleasure of knowing for the last 20 years and witnessing his work ethic, his professional growth and achievements have been amazing to watch. 

But all that aside, the thing that really stands out for me is that he is one of the nicest, most grounded, and genuine people you will ever meet. And for me, that trumps everything.

In today's podcast, we will discuss:

  • Duffy's journey into the world of editorial hairdressing
  • The advice he'd give to young hairdressers who wants to walk in his shoes
  • What drives his creativity
  • Social media and the impact it's had on fashion… And… 
  • What influence Coronavirus might have on fashion?

And lots more!

 

In This Episode:

[01:56] Welcome to the show, Duffy!

[03:12] Duffy shares his background and his journey to where he is today.

[05:35] Duffy talks about working in a salon behind the chair when he first started.

[08:18] What was the appeal of editorial hairdressing for you?

[11:40] Duffy discusses how his training didn't prepare him for editorial work.

[13:27] Duffy speaks about his first experience in fashion hairstyling.

[17:46] Listen, as Duffy shares what a young hairstylist needs to do if they want to have a career in editorial styling.

[21:15] Duffy says that young hairdressers need to find their own flavor and not copy anyone, try to do it differently.

[23:58] What are some things that young hairdressers do wrong when they are working with you?

[27:01] Always remember you are part of a team that is trying to produce a product that is finished and polished.

[30:15] Duffy shares that when you first start out, you don't make any money. You have to work for it.

[33:45] You don't find an agent, an agent finds you.  

[36:18] Duffy's favorite work is editorial. He shares all the different aspects of his career and the work he does in movies.

[39:25] On the red carpet, you are taking on a well-known person, and it's your job to enhance their persona.

[40:41] Is there a go-to Duffy look?

[44:01] Duffy speaks about a painting he saw years ago that was opposite of the others he had seen.

[45:48] What is your creative process, and references do you fall back on?

[47:55] Duffy talks about the difference between technique and taste.

[49:43] Duffy discusses what he gets back from all the countries he travels to for work.

[52:55] Listen, as Duffy shares how he thinks the pandemic will impact the fashion industry.

[55:21] He discusses how, in editorial work, they have had to rethink how they are producing imagery.

[56:27] What kind of impact has social media had on your career?

[59:15] Duffy speaks about the energy and excitement that young hairdressers bring to the industry.

[1:01:11] How do you stay relevant and keep reinventing yourself?

[1:02:15] Duffy wishes he was better at all of it because that pushes him.

[1:04:54] Thank you so much for being on the show!

 

Links and Resources

 Grow My Salon Business 


Find Duffy:

@duffy_duffy

Instagram

01 Nov 2022165 Who Is on Your External Team?00:19:07

If you want to build a business, you can’t do it alone. 

You and your business don’t exist in isolation, and despite how talented, adaptable and hardworking you are, even you can only do so much. Every business owner needs the help and support of other people with other specialist skill sets.

If business growth is important to you, then building the right external team is just as important as building the right internal team. Your internal team are those people who work in the salon providing hair and beauty services. Your external team includes financial experts, legal advisors, coaches, and the like.

Tune in today to hear about what your external team should consist of, and the importance of carefully considering the people you choose to fill these positions!

 

In this Episode:

[01:02] Why you can’t grow a business alone. 

[01:55] Examples of the kinds of specialists who may make up a salon owner’s external team. 

[05:37] The value of having an external team. 

[07:55] Why you should have an accountant on your external team from day one.

[09:07] The value in having an accountant with “the heart of a teacher.”

[10:21] Why I recommend having a bookkeeper (although you could probably do your bookkeeping yourself).

[11:30] Examples of times when it will benefit you to have a good relationship with a legal professional. 

[12:21] The advantages of being a member of a professional organization. 

[13:46] Why it’s important to have branding and marketing specialists on your external team.

[15:39] How a dedicated administrator will positively impact your growing business.

 

Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated! 

They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast. 

I also love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast! Just click here to review, scroll to the bottom, tap “Ratings and Reviews” tap to rate with 5 stars and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favourite part of the podcast is. Thank you for your support! 

Until next time! 

Antony

 

Links and Resources:

Grow My Salon Business 

Website | Facebook | Instagram | TikTok

 

Books

 Grow 2 Management | Grow 3 Team

16 Jul 2019011 Breaking the Silence: Hairdressers and Mental Health Conversations with Stevie English00:39:02

Hairdressers everywhere often speak about the ‘role of the councillor’ that many hairdressers have with their clients. Mental health is a subject that has risen up the list of things that are not only acceptable but essential to talk openly about.   Unfortunately though, for a range of reasons many people today suffer from poor mental health. As a result suicide rates in many countries - particularly amongst young men - are higher than ever.   On todays Podcast I speak with Australian hairdresser Stevie English, who is creating an online hairdressing education platform with the aim of raising ‘awareness and support’ for the issues surrounding mental health and suicide prevention.   Regardless of where you are in the world this is well worth listening to.

05 Dec 2023221 House of Sassoon: Reinventing a Heritage Brand with Debbie Webster00:49:47

The Sassoon brand will be celebrating its 70th birthday next year, and it is as relevant as ever before. 

 

Like many businesses, the last couple of years forced the Sassoon leadership team to reevaluate the way forward because if a business is to stay relevant, it mustn't be afraid to reinvent.  

 

The result is House of Sassoon, a concept that combines different salon models, hair education, ambassador programs, and more under one roof in arguably the coolest part of London.

 

On this week’s episode, I speak with Sassoon CEO Debbie Webster about the launch of House of Sassoon and how it has breathed new life into the business. 

 

In today’s podcast, we discuss: 

 

  • The relaunch of the brand as House of Sassoon
  • How the company has evolved over the past few years
  • Trends taking place in the hair education space…

 

And lots more! 

 

For full show notes, links and resources mentioned visit: https://growmysalonbusiness.com/podcast/221/ 

 

Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated!  

They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast. I also love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast!  

Just click here to review, scroll to the bottom, tap “Ratings and Reviews” tap to rate with 5 stars and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favourite part of the podcast is. Thank you for your support! 

And finally, don’t forget to subscribe to the show to get automatic updates. 

Got a question you want answered on the podcast? DM me your question over on Instagram or just come on over to connect at: https://www.instagram.com/growmysalonbusiness/

11 Jun 2024248 Nine Money Mistakes Salon Owners Make [And how to avoid them!]00:12:58

One of the ways we learn in life is by making mistakes. 

 

But the problem is that the mistakes you make in business have a financial impact.

 

Sometimes, that impact is small, but other times, mistakes have a big impact on the profitability of your business. 

 

So, as much as possible, although making the occasional mistake is inevitable, you need to learn from them quickly so that you reduce the chance it will happen again. 

 

In today's episode, I'll discuss 9 'financial management' mistakes that many salon owners make every single day, and how they pay the price as a result. 

 

For full show notes, links and resources mentioned visit: https://growmysalonbusiness.com/podcast/248/ 


Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated! 

They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast. I also love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast!
 
Just click here to review, scroll to the bottom, tap “Ratings and Reviews” tap to rate with 5 stars and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favourite part of the podcast is. Thank you for your support!

And finally, don’t forget to subscribe to the show to get automatic updates.

Got a question you want answered on the podcast? DM me your question over on Instagram or just come on over to connect at: https://www.instagram.com/growmysalonbusiness/

 

Links and Resources:

 

Grow My Salon Business

 

Website | Facebook | Instagram

Money - The online course

21 Feb 2023180 What Cultural Progression in the Salon Industry Looks Like with Tom White01:06:42

These days we hear a lot about the changing culture in salons and the changing needs and expectations of today's workforce. In order to stay relevant in the salon industry today, salon owners need to be open to cultural progression. 

  

 Tom White, the founder of Melbourne-based salon, Same Same But Different, is a salon owner with an interesting, new-age take on what creating a modern salon culture is all about. The four foundational pillars of Same Same But Different are diversity, community, creativity, and honesty, and Tom’s approach is all about simplifying the salon experience and creating something special not just for the guests but for the hairdressers too! 

  

 In today’s podcast, we discuss:

  

  • Brand pillars
  • Flexible working hours
  • Motivation
  • Profit margins
  • Salon retail

  

And lots more!

For full show notes, links and resources mentioned visit: https://growmysalonbusiness.com/podcast/180/

 

Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated!  

They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast. I also love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast!  

Just click here to review, scroll to the bottom, tap “Ratings and Reviews”, tap to rate with 5 stars and “Write a Review”, and let me know what your favourite part of the podcast is. Thank you for your support! 

And finally, don’t forget to subscribe to the show to get automatic updates. 

Got a question you want answered on the podcast? DM me your question over on Instagram or just come on over to connect at: https://www.instagram.com/growmysalonbusiness/

12 Nov 2024269 (Re-release) A Tribute to the Life and Times of a True Hairdressing Legend - Trevor Sorbie01:20:17

The words' icon' and 'legend' are totally overused in the hairdressing industry, and the problem that it creates is that when you really do meet someone regarded as a genuine icon or legend in the hairdressing industry, there are no superlatives left to aptly describe their status.


Having said that, today's guest would never call himself an 'icon' or a 'legend,' and it's that humility combined with decades at the top creatively that has earned him the respect of hairdressers everywhere.


My guest on today's podcast is Mr Trevor Sorbie MBE. Trevor started his career working in his father's barbershop in Paisley, Scotland. He went on to become one of the biggest names in the world of hairdressing, and along the way, won 4 British Hairdresser Of the Year Awards, was awarded a Doctorate from a Scottish University and was made a Member of the British Empire from her Majesty the Queen…


In this episode, we will discuss:

- The importance of nurturing creativity
- The art of being a great on-stage presenter
- The wisdom that comes with age…

And lots more!


In this Episode:

[03:57] The leadership style which has been a defining characteristic of Trevor’s career.

[10:59] Challenges that Trevor dealt with growing up in Paisley, Scotland.

[13:21] The origins of Trevor’s hairdressing career.

[18:51] Why Trevor chose to keep his skill set broad and diverse.

[21:08] What the early days of building the Trevor Sorbie brand were like.

[27:05] How Trevor’s product line came into being (and his feelings towards it).

[33:32] The factors that motivated Trevor to sell his salons four years ago.

[36:22] Trevor’s ultimate dream.

[38:37] How Trevor nurtured talent within his salons.

[45:36] The trait Trevor believes is essential for success in the salon industry.

[46:52] Trevor’s approach to teaching.

[49:11] A watershed moment in Trevor’s career.

[54:10] The routine that Trevor follows prior to every show.

[56:42] Trevor shares what inspired him to found My New Hair (and the mission of the organisation).

[58:02] Some of Trevor’s most memorable life experiences.

[1:10:49] The philosophies that Trevor lives by.


Want MORE to help you GROW?


📚 Check out our Bestselling GROW Books

https://growmysalonbusiness.com/books/


🆘Management overwhelm!? Download our free checklist! This checklist will help you get clarity on where you're at https://growmysalonbusiness.com/management-checklist/


 

RATINGS + REVIEWS


🙏Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated! They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast.

👉 Here's what you do:

- On your phone, Click here  (Read steps below first)

- Scroll down to 'Ratings & Reviews'

- Tap on the empty purple stars and rate 5 stars

- Click on ‘Write a Review’ I love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast! Thank you for your support! 🙏

Until next time!
Antony


 

RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: 


Trevor Sorbie


Website
| Instagram | Facebook


My New Hair

Website

Grow My Salon Business

Website | Facebook | Instagram | TikTok

21 Nov 2023219 Timeless Principles for Success in the Salon Industry with Geno Stampora00:55:27

“If you lead an inspired life, it’s a lot easier not to get burnt out.”

 

The world we live in is overflowing with information, but what we really need more of is wisdom, and wisdom comes with experience.

 

Geno Stampora has a lifetime of experience in the salon industry, and he joins us on the podcast this week to share some of the most valuable lessons that he has learned along the way.

 

Among other things, Geno is a hairdresser, former salon owner, and motivational speaker, and in today’s podcast, we will discuss:

 

  •  How you can’t solve today’s challenges with yesterday’s problems
  • The impact that technological advancements are having on salons
  •   Avoiding burnout by living out your purpose…

And lots more!

 

For full show notes, links and resources mentioned visit: https://growmysalonbusiness.com/podcast/219/

Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated!  

They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast. I also love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast!  

Just click here to review, scroll to the bottom, tap “Ratings and Reviews” tap to rate with 5 stars and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favourite part of the podcast is. Thank you for your support! 

And finally, don’t forget to subscribe to the show to get automatic updates. 

Got a question you want answered on the podcast? DM me your question over on Instagram or just come on over to connect at: https://www.instagram.com/growmysalonbusiness/

23 Aug 2022155 The Importance of Embracing Change In An Ever-Evolving Industry with Mia De Vries01:07:51

There are a lot of people that will talk about how tough the past couple of years have been, and rightly so in many cases. 

But if there’s one thing I’ve learned in my 40 years in this industry it is that to succeed you have to continually evolve. You can’t stand still and dine out on yesterday’s glories and you can’t be afraid to continually reinvent and evolve your business… 

My guest today very much shares those sentiments. Her name is Mia De Vries, and amongst other things, she is a salon owner, business coach, and founder of ‘The Secret Fox’ online education company.

In today’s podcast, we will discuss:

  • No longer working Saturdays and embracing a 4 day work week.
  • The importance of finding life and business balance
  • Motivation and people management

And lots more!

In this Episode:

[02:27] Mia shares an overview of her business and personal life.

[04:54] Business “meltdowns” that Mia has experienced and the biggest lesson that she learned from them.

[09:11] Mia’s joy-seeking approach to business. 

[10:44] Factors that influenced Mia’s decision to close her salon on Saturdays, and how she subsequently restructured her employee’s working hours. 

[16:06] What Mia believes to be the secret to successfully stepping away from the chair without losing clients. 

[18:43] Additional ways that Mia has cultivated a flexible culture in her salon. 

[20:29] Reasons for the big renovation that Mia’s salon recently underwent, and the various other changes that have accompanied this. 

[25:20] A story that epitomizes the special relationships that hairdressers can develop with their clients.  

[30:38] The characteristics that Mia believes have been foundational to her success. 

[31:36] Offerings that are available via Mia’s online education company, The Secret Fox (and the inspiration behind the founding of the company).

[36:23] Mia’s thoughts about the influence of social media in the hairdressing and hair education space.

[47:47] Mia’s approach to improving productivity and dealing with conflict in her salon. 

[57:19] A discussion about all things financial in The Fox & The Hair Salon. 

[1:01:00] Reasons why The Fox & The Hair hasn’t been affected by the shift away from traditional salon business models. 

[1:03:27] What Mia wishes she was better at.

[1:05:59] The value in asking for help.   

Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated! They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast. 

I also love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast! Just click here to review, scroll to the bottom, tap “Ratings and Reviews” tap to rate with 5 stars and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favourite part of the podcast is. Thank you for your support!Special thanks to Mia for sharing her insights with me for this week’s episode. Until next time!Antony

Links and Resources:

Grow My Salon Business 

Website | Facebook | Instagram

The Fox & The Hair

Instagram | Facebook

The Secret Fox

Website | Instagram | Facebook

15 Nov 2022167 Talent, Humility, and Constant Reinvention Is the Key to Success with Sam McKnight01:03:10

Sometimes I find myself searching for words to aptly describe the achievements and status of someone who is way ahead of the pack.  

My guest on today's episode is one such person, and I’m going to describe him as a ‘hairdressing genius.’

Sam McKnight is a session stylist with a list of eye-watering achievements, including having worked with every supermodel you can name, as well as celebrities, movie stars, royalty, photographers, magazines, and fashion designers, over the last 40 years.

He has so many Vogue covers to his credit that he’s lost count (well over 250!) He’s won awards, had exhibitions, published his own book, and been a contributing editor to British Vogue.

Sam is currently a judge on the UK reality TV show, ‘The Big Blow Out’ (which is sponsored by Paul Mitchell), and on top of all that, Sam is the founder of his own product range, simply called “Hair by Sam McKnight.”

So, in today's podcast, we just talk about being Sam McKnight…

 

In this Episode:

[04:04] The transition point in Sam’s life that is marked by his book, Hair By Sam McKnight.

[09:47] Sam explains what motivated him to become a session stylist at a time when most hairdressers were focused on cutting hair. 

[14:46] The person who influenced Sam in the early years of his career. 

[16:33] Value that lies in building and maintaining good relationships with people in the industry. 

[19:38] Characteristics and situations that Sam is repelled by.

[23:06] The balance between intimacy and distance that is required of a hairdresser.

[26:21] A trait that Sam believes has been key to his success. 

[27:29] Some of the catalytic moments that signaled a step-up in Sam’s career. 

[29:38] The combination of factors that turn a model into a worldwide phenomenon.

[32:24] Dynamism that defines the modern hairdressing industry.

[34:51] The genius of Karl Lagerfeld.

[37:27] The power that lies in being a hairstylist. 

[42:13] How Sam became involved in the reality TV show, The Big Blow Out, and an overview of the concept behind the show. 

[46:53] Sam’s experience of creating his haircare brand, and the elements that make his products stand out. 

[52:22] What Sam thinks hairdressers should do to stay relevant in the industry as it evolves. 

[59:19] Sam’s biggest strength, the most important life lesson he has learned, and what he wishes he was better at. 

 

Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated!  

They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast. 

I also love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast! Just click here to review, scroll to the bottom, tap “Ratings and Reviews” tap to rate with 5 stars and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favourite part of the podcast is. Thank you for your support! 

Special thanks to Sam for sharing his insights with me for this week’s episode. Until next time! 

Antony

 

Links and Resources:

Grow My Salon Business 

Website | Facebook | Instagram | TikTok

 

Sam McKnight

Website | Instagram | Instagram [Personal] |  Facebook |  Twitter |  Book

22 Mar 2022133 The Journey to Building Your Own Education Brand with Sally Rogerson.01:01:32

I always think it’s important to dream. To want a better life for yourself and your family and importantly to have the courage and the grit to step into the unknown and see where it leads you. My guest on today's Podcast is one such person, her name is Sally Rogerson and her hairdressing journey started out in a small town in the north of England and after a fascinating and varied career 30 years later she is the proud owner of SR Academy which is a hairdressing education company based in Scottsdale Arizona. 

In today’s episode we discuss:

  • Sally's hairdressing journey and the lessons she’s learnt along the way.
  • Life-changing moments… and…
  • How education is changing

And lots more!

 

In this Episode:

[00:55] Learn about my next guest, Sally Rogerson. 

[02:11] Sally shares a bit about her backstory and how she got involved in hair. 

[05:02] Does she miss anything about her younger years? 

[05:53] Was she always focused on the education piece? 

[07:03] What was the transition from London to L.A. like? 

[08:29] Has she ever considered having a salon of her own? 

[09:34] Was there one particular moment that pushed her to create her education business? 

[14:20] Where does her comfort with change come from? 

[17:55] Sally retells a story from her early days in the United States. 

[21:37] Why Scottsdale? 

[24:59] Learn about SR Academy. 

[28:20] What is it that makes a good teacher in cosmetology? 

[32:47] How can you tell if someone will be a good hairdresser? 

[34:53] The ways her view of fashion and cosmetology has changed through the years. 

[38:44] How social media has impacted her business and career. 

[42:16] What influence has social media had on education overall?

[44:51] In what ways will the switch toward freelancing change the education space? 

[50:25] Sally’s insights on apprenticeship versus beauty school. 

[55:55] One of the biggest struggles in the industry is that people finish school and then quit the work. 

[56:46] Why Sally wishes she was better at the business part. 

[58:42] Connect with Sally. 

[59:56] Sally’s final words for everyone in the industry. 

 

Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated! 

They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast. 

I also love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast! Just click here to review, scroll to the bottom, tap “Ratings and Reviews” tap to rate with 5 stars and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favourite part of the podcast is. Thank you for your support! 

Special thanks to Sally for sharing her insights with me for this week’s episode. Until next time! 

Antony

 

Links and Resources:

Grow My Salon Business 

Website | Facebook | Instagram

Sally Rogerson

Website | Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | Email 

 

SR Academy

Website | Instagram

 

Thrive Sessions Hair Show

30 Mar 2021083 Is The Salon Suite or Studio Right For You?01:07:37

Oftentimes on the podcast, I talk about the changes that are happening in the industry and particularly the ever-evolving business models. 

In the United States, the Salon Suite or Studio as some prefer to call it has had a massive impact on hairdressing and how hairdressers work and that model is influencing salons in many countries.

The biggest operator of salon suites is Sola Salon Suites and their very first suite operator was Kim Bennet and so it’s a real pleasure to have Kim as my guest today and get a really good insight into how having a salon suite works from someone who has been doing it for 17 years. 

In today’s podcast we discuss:

  • The salon suite business model
  • Who is and isn’t suited to opening a salon suite/studio of their own
  • What are the advantages and disadvantages 

And lots more!

 

In This Episode:

[01:45] Welcome to the show, Kim!

[02:25] Kim shares her background.

[03:21] Kim speaks about how she got started with Sola Salon Studios.

[05:18] Did the salon suite model exist when you first got started?

[07:41] Kim discusses the founders of Sola Salon Studios.

[10:04] Kim shares the Sola business model.

[11:00] Antony talks about why the salon suite model isn't for him.

[13:19] Kim shares why the salon suite works for her.

[16:33] Kim discusses wanting to give her clients a better experience, and to do that, she wanted the studio model.

[19:46] Kim speaks about evolving over the years and how her business evolved with her.

[22:59] Were there any challenges that stood out to you since you were new to the salon suite model?

[26:34] Kim shares how Sola stylists handle their guest's arrivals because they don't have receptionists.

[29:18] Kim discusses the matrix on how many studio suite stylists decided they didn't like the business model.

[31:16] In Kim's experience, when she saw people leave Sola, they were usually becoming salon owners.

[34:03] Listen as Kim speaks about who might not be a great studio suite owner.

[37:31] Kim says that competition between suites around pricing isn't something that happens at Sola.

[39:57] Do you get walk-ins with the studio suite model?

[41:10] Kim talks about what she misses about the traditional salon model.

[43:38] Kim discusses what clients have told her about missing the traditional salon experience.

[45:55] When it comes to retail, some don't want the hassle of it, and others see the benefits and profits from selling products.

[48:03] What is the average cost of a studio suite?

[53:07] The most important business model is the one that works best for you.

[57:10] Kim says that social media is huge in the salon suite entrepreneurial mindset.

[1:01:20] Kim discusses the age-old challenge of stylists taking their clients with them when they leave.

[1:04:16] Who is training the new generation of hairstylists?

[1:06:59] Thank you so much for being on the show!

 

Links and Resources

 Grow My Salon Business 

 

Kim Bennett

 Kim Bennett Studios

@kimi_kisses

Instagram |  Facebook

16 Aug 2022154 Pushing the Boundaries of What It Means To Be a Successful Hairstylist with John Vial00:54:19

My guest on today's podcast is London-based hairdresser, salon owner, editorial stylist, product developer, and general hairdressing visionary John Vial.

 As you are about to discover, John has been involved in many areas of the hair and beauty business and continues to inspire at many levels across the industry.

In today’s podcast we will discuss:

  • The TV make-over show ‘10 Years Younger in 10 Days’
  • John’s TED Talk 
  • The challenges with salon ownership and the industry today
  • Developing a product line with a difference…

 And lots more!

In this Episode:

[02:37] John shares the origins of his salon industry career. 

[06:23] The transformative power of hairdressing (in more than just the physical sense). 

[08:51] 10 Years Younger in 10 Days; the enormous popularity of the TV makeover show that John is involved with. 

[11:24] The evolution of John’s upcoming sustainable product range (the focus of his first TED talk).

[14:11] A brief overview of how blockchain works, and its benefits. 

[18:22] John shares what led him to become an editorial stylist. 

[20:55] The role that John played in changing perceptions around men’s hairdressing.

[24:16] John’s thoughts on trends. 

[29:44] Examples of some hairdressing suitability rules that shouldn’t be broken. 

[30:55] The ultimate goal of hairdressing.

[33:51] What it takes to be successful, according to John.

[38:25] Major insecurities that John struggled with, and the invaluable lesson that he has learned through (almost) 12 years of sobriety. 

[41:47] Two reasons why the hairdressing industry is in freefall. 

[49:01] How John keeps himself inspired. 

[51:04] What John sees as his biggest strength, and what he wishes he was better at. 

Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated! 

They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast. 

I also love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast! Just click here to review, scroll to the bottom, tap “Ratings and Reviews” tap to rate with 5 stars and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favourite part of the podcast is. Thank you for your support! Special thanks to John for sharing their insights with me for this week’s episode. Until next time!

Antony

Links and Resources:

Grow My Salon Business 

Website | Facebook | Instagram

John Vial

Website | Instagram

10 Years Younger

Instagram

Salon Sloane

Instagram

Tim Blanks

Instagram

21 May 2024245 Salon Owners: The Key Number You Need to Know00:12:28

What’s your number?


There is one number that we don’t talk about enough in this industry and that is probably because although it sounds simple to understand, it isn’t always easy to work it out. 


So what’s the number I’m talking about?


It’s the number that represents the amount of revenue you need to generate each week to keep the doors open and keep the lights on.


And that number is referred to as your breakeven point… Or breakeven number.


In this episode I discuss why knowing the breakeven number is essential for every salon owner to ensure that you’re running a profitable business. 



For full show notes, links and resources mentioned visit: https://growmysalonbusiness.com/podcast/245/ 


Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated! 

They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast. I also love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast! 

Just click here to review, scroll to the bottom, tap “Ratings and Reviews” tap to rate with 5 stars and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favourite part of the podcast is. Thank you for your support!

And finally, don’t forget to subscribe to the show to get automatic updates.

Got a question you want answered on the podcast? DM me your question over on Instagram or just come on over to connect at: https://www.instagram.com/growmysalonbusiness/

06 Dec 2022170 What is the Future of Salon Retail? Salon Interactive and the Changing Salon Retail Model.01:03:20

As I often say, “this industry is all about change.”

In reality, every industry is about change, and the salon business is certainly not immune to the changing forces of technology, consumer trends, and generational changes. 

Today's podcast is specifically focused on changes in the professional salon retail model. My guest on today's Podcast is Randy Cotten, the President and GM of SalonInteractive. 

At the moment, SalonInteractive is only US based, but no matter where you live in the world, you will want to listen to this episode as I firmly believe that Salon Interactive will play a big role in the salon retail model of the future…

 

In this Episode:

[03:38] Randy shares an overview of his educational and professional journey to date.

[05:51] What Randy’s company, SalonInteractive, does and how it benefits hairdressers. 

[09:02] How SalonInteractive differs from other affiliate-linking sites (like Amazon, for example). 

[12:29] The founding story of SalonInteractive. 

[14:50] A more in-depth explanation of what SalonInteractive does. 

[17:25] The impact that the COVID-19 pandemic had on SalonInteractive. 

[23:40] How consumer behavior patterns have changed over the past 10 years.  

[25:25] How the SalonInteractive business model works. 

[27:48] SalonInteractive from the perspective of the consumer. 

[33:00] Some of the key features of SalonInteractive.

[37:19] Different approaches that SalonInteractive clients use for their online stores.

[40:18] Factors that drive success on the SalonInteractive platform. 

[43:25] The overall goal of SalonInteractive, and the number of products they currently have on their site.

[46:39] How SalonInteractive enriches the relationship between brands and manufacturers. 

[53:00] Delving into the numbers. 

 

Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated!  

They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast. 

I also love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast! Just click here to review, scroll to the bottom, tap “Ratings and Reviews” tap to rate with 5 stars and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favourite part of the podcast is. Thank you for your support! 

Special thanks to Randy for sharing his insights with me for this week’s episode. Until next time! 

Antony

 

Links and Resources:

Grow My Salon Business 

Website | Facebook | Instagram | TikTok

 

SalonInteractive

Website | LinkedIn | Instagram | Facebook | Pinterest |  YouTube

 

Randy Cotten

LinkedIn

19 Jul 2022150 What is Freedom and How Do We Balance That with Running a Profitable Business? with Antony Whitaker.00:17:17

Regardless of what business you are in, the challenge every business owner faces is that of constantly adapting and evolving to the changes in the world we live in.  

Whether it’s the demands for more flexibility from today's workforce, or the pressures of inflation and the rising costs of living and doing business, the fact remains that being in business isn’t easy, and to succeed you need to constantly evolve.

And therein lies the challenge. How do you build in more freedom, flexibility, and autonomy for your team? 

And how do you balance that with running a viable and profitable business?

In this Episode:

[00:54] Why I recommend watching WeCrashed.

[01:14] The question that inspired today’s episode. 

[02:13] Important realizations that many people have come to as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. 

[04:08] The tradeoff between income and freedom.

[04:27] Changes that many stylists made to their way of working during the pandemic. 

[05:22] A few different definitions of freedom in relation to the salon industry. 

[08:04] Comparing the trajectory of the salon industry in relation to other industries.

[09:13] The importance of treading cautiously when implementing change. 

[10:27] Factors that make the salon industry ideal for disruption.

[11:19] 30: the number of hours a week being worked by over 60% of hair and beauty professionals in the United States. 

[12:26] The downsides of the proliferation of independent businesses. 

[13:48] An overview of my thoughts on the increasing levels of flexibility and autonomy in the salon industry. 

Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated! 

They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast. 

I also love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast! Just click here to review, scroll to the bottom, tap “Ratings and Reviews” tap to rate with 5 stars and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favourite part of the podcast is. Thank you for your support!

Until next time!

Antony

Links and Resources:

Grow My Salon Business Website | Facebook | Instagram

20 Sep 2022159 Evolving the Salon Business Model with Clinton Norris and Lucas Doney01:02:05

I'm currently doing a monthly series of Facebook live interviews on behalf of John Paul Mitchell Systems. And both the guest and the content have been great, so I am also repurposing them as my weekly podcasts.

The first one is today's episode where I spoke with Clinton Norris and Lucas Doney who, along with Clinton's wife Lauren, are salon and school owners in San Diego. 

They are also extremely nice people who have some interesting insights into the salon of today!

I know you will enjoy this episode where we discuss:

  • Changing salon business models 
  • Business in a post-Covid world
  • Generational changes
  • Life as an educator…

And lots more!

 

In this Episode:

[03:17] Origins of the name of Clinton, Lucas, and Lauren’s salon and creative space; Citizen. 

[05:22] Unique elements that make Citizen more than just a regular salon.

[07:29] Lucas, Clinton, and Lauren’s approach to curating their creative space. 

[10:45] The very effective hybrid business model that is utilized at Citizen. 

[15:23] How they have built a healthy team culture at Citizen. 

[22:34] An explanation of the tiered rental system at Citizen. 

[29:50] Desires and expectations of new generation hairdressers.

[37:23] The core values of Citizen. 

[40:58] Experimentation that has characterized Citizen’s first few years in business.

[42:51] How Paul Mitchell has influenced the way Clinton and Lucas approach their work. 

[47:09] Why the percentage of Citizen’s revenue that comes from retail is very high.  

[51:40] Exploring the educational component of Lucas and Clinton’s working lives. 

[56:22] Clinton and Lucas share their thoughts on how new generation hairdressers are changing the industry. 

 

Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated! 

They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast. 

I also love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast! Just click here to review, scroll to the bottom, tap “Ratings and Reviews” tap to rate with 5 stars and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favourite part of the podcast is. Thank you for your support! 

Special thanks to Clinton and Lucas for sharing their insights with me for this week’s episode. Until next time! 

Antony

 

Links and Resources:

Grow My Salon Business 

Website | Facebook | Instagram

 

Citizen

Website | Instagram | Facebook | Book an Appointment

 

VARSITY Hair Education

 Instagram |  Facebook

 

Clinton Norris

Instagram

 

Lucas Doney

Instagram

27 Jul 2021100 A creative genius in the hairdressing industry. Part One00:59:40

If you are a serious hairdresser, you will know the name ‘Eugene Souleiman’ and if you don’t, then you should!

I talk to many of the biggest names in the hair industry and when it comes to the world of session work and creativity ‘Eugene’ consistently comes up as being a major creative force who always pushes the boundaries of what can be done with hair.

We often marvel at the end result of the creative process, but I always think that the real magic is in what you don’t see, and that is how the hairdresser thinks about what they do.

How they think about fashion, about art, about people, about creativity, about culture, about collaboration … and how they channel all of that into their work.

Eugene is that rare breed of hairdresser who really is an artist [as much as he genuinely dislikes being called that]. His work inspires other editorial stylists and salon hairdressers the world over and along with a select few when it comes to creativity he is at the top of the pile.

Today’s podcast is the first of a two-part series…

In these two podcast episodes with Eugene we discuss:

  • His journey into hair
  • Transitioning from being a salon to editorial hairdresser
  • The importance of humility and being open to new ideas
  • How to nurture and develop creativity in others
  • What it’s really like to be one of the most in-demand session hairdressers in the world…

And lots more!

[0:01:44] The inspirational work being done by Eugene Souleiman, and what you can expect to hear from the next two episodes with him.

[0:03:23] Eugene’s school and tertiary education experiences.

[0:05:23] When Eugene’s hairdressing journey began.  

[0:07:11] The first job Eugene had as a hairdresser.

[0:10:00] Eugene’s experience working for Trevor Sorbie.

[0:12:43] Qualities that make Trevor Sorbie so special.

[0:15:29] A hugely important lesson that Eugene learned from Trevor Sorbie. 

[0:17:06] Why Eugene thinks barbering is a great starting point for hairdressers.

[0:17:47] Factors that drove Eugene to leave the salon industry and focus on editorial work.

[0:19:19] What Eugene didn’t like about working in a salon, although he does miss it.  

[0:22:33] The skill which has been particularly valuable for Eugene throughout his career.     

[0:25:03] Creativity is everywhere. 

[0:26:19] Inspiration that Eugene draws from chef Heston Blumenthal and artist Mark Rothko.

[0:28:48] Deeper meanings that lie behind what we see.

[0:32:40] Eugene explains how humility enhances one’s ability to be creative.

[0:34:10] Continuous learning and teaching that Eugene does in his line of work. 

[0:37:13] Materials, other than hair, that Eugene works with. 

[0:39:05] Eugene’s definition of an artist.

[0:40:26] What living in New York taught Eugene.  

[0:42:50] How Eugene feels about the time he spent in Australia. 

[0:44:14] Eugene’s love for Paris. 

[0:46:16] A tribute to Yohji Yamomoto.

[0:49:35] How Eugene began to look at hair differently after working with Yohji.  

[0:51:05] The influence that John Galliano had on Eugene.   

[0:53:38] A Folk Horror Tale; the film that you need to watch.

[0:57:18] Characteristics that Eugene admires in the people he works with. 

 

Links and Resources:

Grow My Salon Business

 

Eugene Souleiman
Click here to check out Eugene's classes on The Wig Academy

Instagram

A Folk Horror Tale

Film

11 Feb 2025282 How Much is YOUR SALON Really Worth? With Susan Wos00:46:00

**PLEASE NOTE: There was an issue with the audio on the episode published earlier today. This episode has the corrected audio.**

Today's guest is Susan Wos, an American-based former hairdresser turned business broker who specialises in the salon industry and has now worked with clients in America, Canada, Dubai, UK and Australia… 

 

Susan brings valuable insights of the inner workings of the salon industry to the brokerage business.  

 

In today’s podcast, we discuss:

 

- How much is your salon really worth?

- When is the right time to sell your salon? 

- What are the biggest misconceptions about buying and selling salon businesses?

 

As well as…

 

The importance of keeping clean financial records, understanding the value of independent contractor income versus employee-based models, The dynamics of selling to existing staff, and why it’s important to plan an exit strategy from the start.

 

And so much more!

 

 

IN THIS EPISODE:

 

[01:13] Introducing today's guest: Susan Wos

[02:01] Susan's journey from hairdresser to business broker

[05:05] The challenges and insights in selling salons

[10:12] The intricacies of valuing a salon business

[14:17] The impact of self-employment on salon valuation

[17:51] Discussing market trends and buyer-seller dynamics

[21:44] Emergency sales: The strategies and considerations

[23:53] The importance of valuing your business realistically

[24:26] Planning your exit strategy early

[25:21] The importance of building a sellable business

[30:27] Selling to existing staff

[33:35] Typical buyers in the salon industry

[43:38] Connect with Susan Wos

 

 

 

Want MORE to help you GROW?

 

📚 Check out our Bestselling GROW Books https://growmysalonbusiness.com/books/

 

🆘 Management overwhelm!? Download our free checklist! This checklist will help you get clarity on where you're at https://growmysalonbusiness.com/management-checklist/

 

 

RATINGS + REVIEWS

 

🙏Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated! 
 

They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast.

👉 Here's what you do:

- On your phone,Click here  (Read steps below first)

- Scroll down to 'Ratings & Reviews'

- Tap on the empty purple stars and rate 5 stars

- Click on ‘Write a Review’ I love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast! Thank you for your support! 🙏

Until next time!
 Antony

 

 

RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

 

Free Business Valuation Calculator- https://salonspaconnection.com/free-salon-business-valuation/

 

 

👉 FOLLOW US!

Instagram | Facebook | Website

 

 

👉 FOLLOW SALON SPA CONNECTION!

Instagram | Facebook | Website

26 Nov 2024271 Creativity and the Art of Hairdressing: A Conversation with Angelo Seminara00:57:39

I have always said that hairdressing is an amazing craft and that many hairdressers also have a creative side to them, which is often what draws them to this profession in the first place. 


But the term artist shouldn’t be used to describe every hairdresser because very few are. But occasionally, you come across a hairdresser who truly is an artist. An individual who consistently shows a level of creativity that separates them from the rest. 

 

My guest today is Angelo Seminara, who is, without doubt, an artist in the true sense of the word. In fact, I’m going to say that when it comes to hair, he is nothing short of a creative genius. 

 

In today’s podcast, we will discuss:

 

- Creativity in hairdressing 

- Sustainability in product development

- The importance of mentorship

 

And lots more!

 

 

IN THIS EPISODE:

 

[01:08] Introducing Angelo Seminara: A true hair artist

[02:20] Angelo's early start in hairdressing

[08:09] The journey to London and meeting Trevor Sorbie

[18:32] The importance of mentorship

[23:50] Defining Angelo's unique work

[32:06] Exploring editorial work and product design

[36:19] Defining beauty and suitability

[44:37] The importance of fashion in hairdressing

[46:31] Working with product companies

[49:53] Awards and recognition in hairdressing

[53:37] Future aspirations and creative ventures

Want MORE to help you GROW?

 

📚 Check out our Bestselling GROW Books

https://growmysalonbusiness.com/books/

 

🆘 Management overwhelm!? Download our free checklist! This checklist will help you get clarity on where you're at https://growmysalonbusiness.com/management-checklist/



 

RATINGS + REVIEWS

 

🙏Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated! 
 
 

They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast.

👉 Here's what you do:

- On your phone,Click here  (Read steps below first)

- Scroll down to 'Ratings & Reviews'

- Tap on the empty purple stars and rate 5 stars

- Click on ‘Write a Review’ I love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast! Thank you for your support! 🙏

Until next time!
 Antony

 

 

RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

 

Hair Every Wear 3.0 - Collection video

 

Solage Meche - Hair Colouring Tool

 

Imprinter 

 

 

👉 FOLLOW US!

Instagram | Facebook | Website

 

 

👉 FOLLOW ANGELO SEMINARA!

Instagram | Facebook | Website

24 Nov 2020065 20% Retail and 20% Profit, How Do You Measure Up?00:56:14

Often I feature world-renowned hairdressers on the podcast, and at other times, I like to feature lesser-known people from the industry that have great success stories that are not only relatable but every bit as inspiring.

 

Some guests on the podcast have lavish salons and high-profile clients in high-profile locations that charge big money for their services. But the problem is that often I find that that actually isolates some listeners, and they say or think to themselves, "I can't do that in my small town - that's just not possible!" 

 

Or they will have all sorts of excuses to justify their shortcoming ranging from 'Amazon has destroyed retail for salons' to blaming the current 'economic situation' that the world is in. And while I am not discounting any of that, I also meet salons that, despite everything, are doing well!

 

And so as part of the 'comeback series' of podcasts, my guests today's are Sonya Gettinger and Ally Deering, who are two of the partners in 'Hollywood Hair' which is a group of 3 salons based in Centralia which is a town of 12,000 people in Illinois, and in two of the salons they are each producing well over a million dollars year …and close to 20% of that is in retail sales. 

 

And when it comes to profit, they aim for a 20% profit margin, and that's after the owners have been paid! 

 

So, in other words, they have a very successful business, even though their main salon is in a town of 12,000.  

 

In today's podcast, we will discuss:

  • The impact that COVID has had on them
  • The upside and downside with social media
  • The key to a successful expansion 
  • Building team culture… 

 

And lots more!


In This Episode:

[02:24] Welcome to the show, Sonya and Ally!

[02:52] Sonya and Ally speak about their salon Hollywood Hair and where they see it going in the future.

[05:55] Listen as they discuss their concierge service and the benefits it has afforded them on the retail side.

[08:55] Did you lose any staff during the lockdown?

[10:44] They share how they are marketing the safety precautions.

[12:47] Ally discusses the impact that social media has had on their business.

[15:00] Retail has remained steady at 20% during the pandemic, even with the shutdown.

[17:48] Antony speaks about customer service's need to keep the clients buying products from your salon.

[19:24] How do you manage and set guidelines around social media?

[21:32] Sonya shares the ups and downs of using social media.

[23:40] Sonya speaks about putting her team on lockdown with social media because of two stylists bashing the salon.

[26:02] Sonya discusses working behind the chair, even though they now have three salons. 

[28:42] Listen as Sonya shares learning to manage the staff and how to protect the salons.

[31:10] At what point do you know it's time to open another salon?

[32:26] Ally shares what they wish they had known before they opened the second salon.

[35:47] Sonya discusses opening other salons with current staff and deciding which employees they want to make leaders in the new salons.

[37:40] Do you finance them into the salons, or do you require them to get the loans?

[38:45] Ally shares the three things she believes you need to create a team culture.

[40:32] Sonya speaks about the difference between young hairdressers now and how she has had to change their procedures to meet them.

[44:35] What percentage do you aim for after the owners have been paid?

[47:44] Ally discusses apps they use at the salon.

[48:47] Sonya shares her insights on the best way to expand.

[50:43] What total sales do you expect your stylists to do each week?

[53:27] Thank you so much for being an open book about your business.

[54:25] Sonya shares some final thoughts for the listeners.

[55:38] Thank you, Ally and Sonya, for being on the show!


Links and Resources

 Grow My Salon Business 

 

Grow My Salon Business Episode 18 with Alicia Soulier


Find Ally and Sonya

Hollywood Hair Salon & Spa

@hollywoodhair

 Facebook 

@hollywoodhair&spa

 Facebook |  LinkedIn

 

06 Mar 2023182 The Business of Change: Essential Skills for Salon Success00:09:39

Change is a theme that has been coming through strongly in the interviews that I have been having on the show. 

 

Even though we are in the ‘business of change’ (i.e. we change the appearance of those who sit in our chairs), the salon industry is often slow to embrace things like changing attitudes, technology, or business models.

 

In business and life, I firmly believe that change is not only good for your business but also essential for keeping you inspired and motivated. But I am just as firm in my belief that some foundational elements don’t ever need to change. 

 

So, tune in for an episode where I share my thoughts on implementing change while being careful not to throw out the good with the bad! 

 

For full show notes, links and resources mentioned visit: https://growmysalonbusiness.com/podcast/182/ 

 

Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated!  

They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast. I also love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast!  

Just click here to review, scroll to the bottom, tap “Ratings and Reviews” tap to rate with 5 stars and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favourite part of the podcast is. Thank you for your support! 

And finally, don’t forget to subscribe to the show to get automatic updates. 

Got a question you want answered on the podcast? DM me your question over on Instagram or just come on over to connect at: https://www.instagram.com/growmysalonbusiness/

04 Jul 2023199 AI and Creativity in Hairdressing with Richard Kavanagh00:56:27

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has been with us for a while, but this year it has exploded into the general consciousness. Regardless of country or industry, it seems like everyone is talking about all the ways that AI will revolutionise the hairdressing business. 

 

But what impact will it have on the creative side of the industry? How will it change how we communicate, how we do consultations, and how we recommend home haircare?

 

My guest on today's Podcast is Richard Kavanagh, who, amongst other things, is the founder of piiq Digital. I've asked Richard onto the show because I want to talk about AI and creativity, and as he has a foot in both camps, I think he’ll bring a broad perspective to the conversation.

 

In today’s podcast, we will discuss:

  • How AI can enhance creativity
  • The impact of AI on salon retail
  • The piiq smart mirror…

 

And lots more!

 

For full show notes, links and resources mentioned visit: https://growmysalonbusiness.com/podcast/199/ 

 

Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated!  

They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast. I also love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast!  

Just click here to review, scroll to the bottom, tap “Ratings and Reviews” tap to rate with 5 stars and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favourite part of the podcast is. Thank you for your support! 

And finally, don’t forget to subscribe to the show to get automatic updates. 

Got a question you want answered on the podcast? DM me your question over on Instagram or just come on over to connect at: https://www.instagram.com/growmysalonbusiness/

30 Jul 2024255 If you’re thinking of a side hustle listen to this first…00:22:37

Should you mix salon ownership with coaching, teaching, podcasting, session work, course creating, etc?


These are all things that I have done or are currently doing… And they all provide reward, both in terms of personal fulfillment and the potential for financial gain.


And they are right for some people, and definitely not right for others. 


In this week’s episode we look at the numerous opportunities that salon owners might consider pursuing and ask the question: are they a distraction or a benefit to building a salon business?


In this Episode:

01:57 Exploring the side hustle of coaching and education etc for a second stream of income

03:51 Antony’s career journey and how that led to growmysalonbusiness.com

05:14 Balancing salon ownership and side hustles

06:35 The realities of being a traveling educator

13:30 The challenges of coaching and education in the hair and beauty industry

15:00 The glamour and hard work of salon ownership

20:41 Final thoughts and resources



Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated! 

They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast. 

I also love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast! Just click here to review, scroll to the bottom, tap “Ratings and Reviews” tap to rate with 5 stars and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favourite part of the podcast is. Thank you for your support!
 

Until next time!
 
 

Antony

 

Links and Resources:

 

Grow My Salon Business 


Website | Facebook | Instagram

Money Course

31 May 2022143 What does it take to build an environmentally friendly salon group with Gina Conway01:04:07

My guest on today’s Podcast is London based hairdresser and owner of a 5 strong salon group and academy Gina Conway.

Originally from California, she has been based in London for the last 20 plus years and has built up a great reputation as one of London's leading salons.

Gina is passionate about delivering a five-star level of service and is widely known not just for doing great hair but also for her total commitment to sustainably and the ethical side of hairdressing.

In the process, she has built up a considerable business and a reputation to match… and she’s just getting started.

In today’s episode we discuss:

  • Balancing the demands of life as an owner of 5 salons, a wife, mother and finding time for everything else.
  • Sustainability in salons today.
  • Creating a team and culture where people want to come to work.
  • The customer service journey.
  • Growing a team and successful expansion.

And lot's more!

In this Episode:

[03:30] Gina also has a fashion degree and became interested in entrepreneurship. 

[03:39] She moved to London 21 years ago and worked at John Frieda. 

[04:04] Gina wanted to bring California sunshine to London and create a team and culture where people would want to come to work. 

[05:08] Yes, it was love that brought Gina to London. One husband and three children later, and she's still here!

[08:21] We talk about what the industry can learn from different areas. 

[10:02] Gina accomplishes so much. She is constantly innovating. She is so passionate about what she does, it doesn't feel like work.

[12:57] Being in your zone is like meditation. The mindful hairdresser allows hairdressers to be in the flow and create mindful haircuts. It's communication in a deep creative space for clients. 

[15:27] Gina has three salons in London. She collaborated with a friend to consolidate marketing and now all of the salons are called Gina Conway.

[16:47] They also have an apprenticeship program where they train about 20 hairdressing students. 

[17:19] She has a staff of around 100 people.

[19:17] Gina shares how John Frieda let her go when she talked about opening her own salon. Her new salon was empty, so she filled it with art. 

[20:56] Gina built her customer service reputation in the industry by giving every customer the platinum treatment.

[24:51] Gina and her partner want to franchise sustainable salons and help other entrepreneurs.

[26:28] Look at your products. Are they using sustainable materials? Look at plastics and bottles. Look at energy and recycling. Consider everything that you purchase. Reuse and refuse, if you can. Think holistically about everything including water use. 

[30:12] The green fee is included in the price of the haircuts. This is who we are and what we do. We also plant a tree for each client.

[34:28] Gina talks about the importance of having a strong culture and teaching the team the why and the values from the start.

[41:19] Generational changes include focusing on mental health and supporting students in making up for lost time. Stability, security, and finding a career path is also so important. 

[49:34] A good salon should be generating between 12% and 15% with a goal of 20% in retail. 

[56:42] Gina is constantly innovating and improving. She's all about momentum.

Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated! 

They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast. 

I also love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast! Just click here to review, scroll to the bottom, tap “Ratings and Reviews” tap to rate with 5 stars and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favourite part of the podcast is. Thank you for your support! Special thanks to Gina for sharing her insights with me for this week’s episode. Until next time! Antony

Links and Resources:

Grow My Salon Business Website | Facebook | Instagram

Gina ConwayWebsite | Instagram | Twitter | Facebook | YouTube | Pinterest

AvedaWebsite

John Paul Mitchell SystemsWebsite | Instagram | Twitter | Facebook | YouTube | Pinterest

Green Salon CollectiveWebsite

29 Jun 2021096 What's happening in the UK hairdressing Industry?00:44:18

The world over the salon industry is a collection of small businesses, and in many cases, the owners of those businesses are often overwhelmed with issues around employment law, tax, health and safety updates, changing legislation, and a raft of other challenges as well as all the other fun stuff that comes with being a small business owner. 

Luckily, in many countries, we are supported by industry associations that are there to offer information, support and guidance to help salon owners navigate their way through the maze as well offering solutions and a sense of community.  

Today's podcast is the third in a series of ‘three’ episodes where we talk to the key representatives of associations in the United Kingdom, the United States and Australia to get an overview of the hairdressing industry in each of their respective countries, the challenges they face and the solutions they have.  

My guest on Todays Podcast is Richard Lambert who is the Chief Executive of the National Hairdressing and Beauty Federation otherwise known as the N.H.B.F… and in today’s podcast, we will discuss the hairdressing industry in the United Kingdom.   

 

In This Episode:

  • [0:02:06] An introduction to today’s guest, Richard Lambert, and why Anthony is excited to have him on the show.
  • [0:04:09] Richard’s role in the National Hair and Beauty Federation (NHBF), and a brief overview of his career path up to this point.
  • [0:06:54] Impacts that the COVID-19 pandemic has had on the hairdressing industry.
  • [0:09:21] Recommendations that the NHBF has recently made to the government with respect to the hairdressing industry.
  • [0:10:28] Support that is provided to salons by the NHBF and other organizations like it.
  • [0:12:03] How the NHBF is funded.
  • [0:13:08] Growth that the NHBF has seen over the past year, and the challenge of retaining those members.
  • [0:15:20] The number of salons who are currently signed up with the NHBF.
  • [0:17:15] Average sizes of salons in the UK, pre-pandemic.   
  • [0:20:00] Richard explains the factors which he thinks have driven the change in the dominant salon model over the years.
  • [0:22:09] What Richard expects to see happen in the commercial property space in the future.
  • [0:24:36] Home hairdressing; the rise in popularity that this industry has experienced since the COVID-19 pandemic began.
  • [0:26:29] Concerns that exist around certain elements of home hairdressing.
  • [0:29:11] The single biggest worry about the rise in self-employment in the hairdressing industry.
  • [0:30:30] Richard explains what college means in the UK context, and why this type of education in the hairdressing field is not the most ideal.
  • [0:31:50] Benefits which hairdressers working in the UK are entitled to.
  • [0:34:55] The methods by which the majority of hairdressers in the UK are usually paid.
  • [0:36:00] A recap of the biggest challenges being experienced by the hairdressing sector currently (and some new ones).
  • [0:37:11] The importance of improving business education within the hairdressing sector.
  • [0:38:41] How the NHBF is addressing the hairdressing skills gap, and the perception of hairdressing as a career path.
  • [0:40:20] Various positive elements of the hairdressing industry that Richard has noticed.
  • [0:41:15] Hairdressing is considered one of the happiest professions in the world!
  • [0:42:48] Where you can find NHBF online, and how to get in touch with Richard.

 

Links and Resources:

 

Grow My Salon Business

Club House @antonywhitaker 

 

Richard Lambert

 LinkedIn

 

National Hair and Beauty Federation

Website | YouTube | LinkedIn | Facebook

 

11 Jul 2023200 Exploring the Life and Times of a True Hairdressing Legend with Trevor Sorbie01:20:22

The words' icon' and 'legend' are totally overused in the hairdressing industry, and the problem that it creates is that when you really do meet someone regarded as a genuine icon or legend in the hairdressing industry, there are no superlatives left to aptly describe their status. 

Having said that, today's guest would never call himself an 'icon' or a 'legend,' and it's that humility combined with decades at the top creatively that has earned him the respect of hairdressers everywhere.

My guest on today's podcast is Mr Trevor Sorbie MBE. Trevor started his career working in his father's barbershop in Paisley, Scotland. He went on to become one of the biggest names in the world of hairdressing, and along the way, won 4 British Hairdresser Of the Year Awards, was awarded a Doctorate from a Scottish University and was made a Member of the British Empire from her Majesty the Queen…

In today's podcast, we will discuss: 

-   The importance of nurturing creativity

-   The art of being a great on-stage presenter

-   The wisdom that comes with age…

And lots more!

 

For full show notes, links and resources mentioned visit: https://growmysalonbusiness.com/podcast/200/

 

Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated!  

They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast. I also love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast!  

Just click here to review, scroll to the bottom, tap “Ratings and Reviews” tap to rate with 5 stars and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favourite part of the podcast is. Thank you for your support! 

And finally, don’t forget to subscribe to the show to get automatic updates. 

Got a question you want answered on the podcast? DM me your question over on Instagram or just come on over to connect at: https://www.instagram.com/growmysalonbusiness/

15 Aug 2023205 How to Achieve Your Financial Goals as a Salon Owner00:19:35

“I have been in business now for ten years, and as a salon owner, I seem to work harder now than I ever have, but by the time I pay my team and the business overhead, there is never the profit left in the business that I had imagined!”

 

Does this sound familiar? Just because you are talented with a tint brush, a pair of scissors, and a blow dryer doesn’t mean you are automatically going to be able to run a successful salon business. But don’t despair; just like you learned how to be a brilliant hairdresser, you can learn to be a brilliant business owner too.

 

A lack of “business savvy” is one of the main reasons that so many salons don’t succeed, and so in today’s episode, I’m going to share with you the six most important elements to focus on to ensure that yours doesn’t become one of the unlucky ones.

 

From setting budgets to managing revenue projections and lots more, tune in today to get a better understanding of how you can achieve your financial goals as a salon owner!

 

For full show notes, links and resources mentioned visit: https://growmysalonbusiness.com/podcast/205/

 

Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated! 

 

They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast. I also love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast! 

 

Just click here to review, scroll to the bottom, tap “Ratings and Reviews” tap to rate with 5 stars and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favourite part of the podcast is. Thank you for your support!

 

And finally, don’t forget to subscribe to the show to get automatic updates.

 

Got a question you want answered on the podcast? DM me your question over on Instagram or just come on over to connect at: https://www.instagram.com/growmysalonbusiness/

05 Oct 2021109 Passion, learning and constant reinvention lead to longevity in business.00:52:09

We are all at different stages of our professional journey, some of us are nearer the beginning than the end, and some of us are nearer the end than the beginning. 

But regardless of where you are, there is always value in your story and there are always people that will have inspired you along the way. 

My guest on today's Podcast is Paul Huege de Serville owner of the Serville salons and school in Auckland New Zealand, and he is definitely someone who has had an influence on my career right from the beginning. 

Paul’s hairdressing career has spanned over 50 years but his passion for the industry, combined with his ability to constantly reinvent is what lays behind his longevity and continued success. 

He has always been a trailblazer and his business has never stopped evolving, he isn’t just keeping up with the times, but he and his team continue to set a path for others to follow… 

In today’s podcast we discuss:

  • The importance of embracing change and evolving as a business
  • Partnerships in business
  • Leadership …

 

In this Episode:

[0:02:49] What Paul’s long, inspiring career in the salon industry has looked like.

[0:06:16] The importance of developing your own unique story as a hairdresser.

[0:08:31] When I first met Paul, and the impact he had on me. 

[0:09:37] Paul’s mission to elevate the hairdressing industry.

[0:12:35] How and why the meaning attributed to awards has changed over time. 

[0:15:00] Why Paul decided to start teaching. 

[0:17:30] The mantra that has defined Paul’s career. 

[0:18:10] How Paul’s business has evolved over time. 

[0:21:59] Paul’s thoughts on the new salon business models which are becoming popular. 

[0:23:45] The business model that Paul uses in his salons. 

[0:24:42] How Paul became the owner of his first and second salons. 

[0:27:13] Keys to the successful expansion of a business, according to Paul. 

[0:29:15] Paul explains how he created his company’s culture. 

[0:32:13] A trait that I have always admired in Paul. 

[0:33:10] Paul’s strategy of visualizing the outcome of something before he begins. 

[0:34:54] What inspired Paul to open a hairdressing academy, and how its size and scope has broadened since its founding in 1993. 

[0:37:56] The number of students who go through Servilles Academy each year. 

[0:39:02] Amount of the total revenue that Paul think salons should ideally be receiving from retail. 

[0:39:39] Paul’s systematic approach to client consultations. 

[0:42:04] Characteristics that Paul sees as his biggest strengths. 

[0:43:30] The strategy that Paul had utilized to stay relevant, even after 40 years in the industry. 

[0:45:11] One of the most important learnings that Paul has had throughout this life.

[0:46:09] How Paul works to constantly improve himself.

[0:48:14] The importance of listening.

[0:49:51] Why Paul deleted his personal social media accounts. 

 

Links and Resources:

Grow My Salon Business

 

Servilles

Website

10 Nov 2020063 What You Need to Know Before Buying an Existing Salon00:38:02

Today I'm going to talk about a question I am often asked, should you buy an existing business or build a business from the beginning? There is no one size fits all answer, so let's talk about the pros and cons of both options.

 I have done both. There are good and bad with both options, and they vary dramatically depending on the business you are buying and the situation you are in as a potential buyer.

Some red flags to look for are: most businesses are built around the person who owns it; when they leave, the business's value often leaves with them. The second challenge is that you need to be cautious about what the person selling the business will do. Probably the most important challenges are you are inheriting the culture of that business, and the existing team might not be willing to make the changes you want to make. When ownership changes, it's an unsettling time for both the staff and the clients, and you might end up with no staff or clients.

Now let's look at the advantages of buying an existing business. If you buy an existing business, that means it's already functioning with staff, clients, and relationships with vendors. You also start with the staff, clients, and an immediate cash flow, which is a huge advantage over building a new business. It also comes with structure and systems in place and has already established itself in the community.

Is it a get rich quick scheme? Should you do it? There is no cut and dry answer to that, it's up to you, but buyer beware, as the saying goes. We cover many points in this podcast that show you some things you need to be aware of if it's something you are thinking of doing.

 

In This Episode:

[00:33] Welcome to the show!

[02:01] Be careful about the type of salon you are buying; the value might leave with the owner.

[03:22] You need to be cautious about what the person selling it is going to do.

[04:58] When you buy an existing business, you are inheriting the culture of that business.

[06:27] With the business comes the people, the existing team might not be willing to make the changes you want to make.

[09:09] If you allow the owner to stay on, be careful that they aren't working behind your back.

[11:14] You might end up paying too much for an existing business.

[14:15] Don't forget to think about the fixtures, furniture, and inventory's worth.

[16:46] Find out the real reason they are selling.

[19:04] Antony discusses the advantages of buying an existing business.

[20:40] An existing will have systems and structures already in place.

[22:31] The risk element is less.

[23:39] Antony shares some questions that you need to ask yourself.

[26:11] Have you got what it takes to run a business?

[29:14] Another thing to think about is whether all the money has to be paid upfront?

[31:07] Do you already have another salon? Where will you work?

[33:47] Are you a leader because it's a people business that you are buying?

[35:51] Antony says it can be hard work, and there is a risk element involved.

[37:31] Thank you for listening!

 

Links and Resources

 Grow My Salon Business 

09 Jul 2024252 What Does it Take to Create a Luxury Salon Brand with Hellen Ward 00:56:06

My guest today is Hellen Ward who as well as being a wife, mother, author, lecturer, educator, and managing director, is also the co-founder along with her husband Richard of the Richard Ward hair and Metro Spa located in the heart of London’s Chelsea.

 

Hellen is highly regarded in the industry for not just having built a great business that is undoubtedly one of the country's leading salons but also for her passion, commitment and common sense insights when it comes to the UK hairdressing industry…

 

So, in today’s podcast we will discuss:


●     The meaning of Luxury in the salon industry

●     Having Royalty as part of your clientele …and

●     The challenges and opportunities that the industry is facing

And lots more!

 

In this Episode:


01:13 Introducing Helen Ward: A multifaceted hair industry leader

01:44 Defining luxury in the salon industry

07:54 An overview of the Richard Ward Salon

15:11 The unique services of Richard Ward Hair and Metro Spa

17:53 The importance of customer experience

24:38 Serving royalty: A peek into the royal clientele

28:48 Challenges of scaling and outsourcing

30:19 Advice for growing salon owners

32:17 The importance of delegation

35:45 Guest artists and diversifying services

37:59 The rise of chair rental and its implications

42:40 Team retention and leadership lessons

48:38 Flexibility in the modern workplace

53:50 Final thoughts and connecting with Helen Ward

 

 

Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated!  They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast.
I also love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast! Just click here to review, scroll to the bottom, tap “Ratings and Reviews” tap to rate with 5 stars and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favourite part of the podcast is. Thank you for your support!
 
 

Until next time!
  

Antony 

Links and Resources:

 

Grow My Salon Business 

 

Website | Facebook | Instagram
 

Richard Ward Hair & Metrospa

Website | Instagram
 

Hellen Ward

Instagram

24 Aug 2021104 Navigating Salons in a Post-COVID World00:15:36

In this episode, I talk about salons in a post covid world and the emotional, financial and business roller-coaster of the last 18 months and what that means to you.

Depending on where you live in the world will determine whereabouts on the roller-coaster ride you currently are and why you need to stop and think about your options as you navigate your way through the next 6 -12 months.

In this Episode:

[0:00:44] The importance of continually assessing where we are in our lives and our businesses.

[0:01:44] A Mike Tyson quote which reflects the experience of people across the world as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. 

[0:03:51] Navigating work in a post-lockdown United Kingdom. 

[0:04:10] Vulnerabilities in the salon industry that were highlighted by the pandemic.  

[0:05:17] Adaptive strategies which allowed some salons to thrive during lockdowns. 

[0:07:12] The time of recovery that we are currently in, and the reality that salon owners are now facing. 

[0:08:10] Business elements that salon owners should focus on reinventing. 

[0:09:48] How the vision of salon owners needs to evolve.   

[0:12:20] A major obstacle to achieving success as a salon owner. 

[0:13:06] “If you want to grow, you need to plan for growth.”

[0:13:30] How the world looked in the decade that followed the last global pandemic.

[0:13:45] What we do and don’t know about the future. 

 

Links and Resources:

Grow My Salon Business

 

 

07 May 2024243 Creativity, Team and Leadership with Anthony Mascolo00:35:55

I don’t believe that there has ever been a family in the world of hairdressing that has made the impact that the Mascolo family has. 


Whether it was the Toni & Guy salons and schools, the TIGI products, or the incredible shows, and stunning photography. Either way the Mascolo brothers, Toni, Guy, Bruno and Anthony were at the forefront of everything in hairdressing and created a hairdressing dynasty that will live on for many years to come.


My guest on today’s episode is Anthony Mascolo who’s creativity and leadership was the force behind the creative direction of the brand.   


In today’s podcast we discuss:

  • The use of AI in hairdressing
  • The changing salon business
  • Leadership and team building

And lots more!



For full show notes, links and resources mentioned visit: https://growmysalonbusiness.com/podcast/243/ 


Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated! 

They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast. I also love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast! 

Just click here to review, scroll to the bottom, tap “Ratings and Reviews” tap to rate with 5 stars and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favourite part of the podcast is. Thank you for your support!

And finally, don’t forget to subscribe to the show to get automatic updates.

Got a question you want answered on the podcast? DM me your question over on Instagram or just come on over to connect at: https://www.instagram.com/growmysalonbusiness/



 

 

 

 

01 Sep 2020053 The changing role of marketing and the opportunities a hairdressing career presents00:50:55

Hairdressing is a career that starts for most of us behind the chair, building a column of clients, and for some people, they only ever want to work behind the chair, and there is absolutely nothing wrong with that, and it can be very rewarding at every level. 

But for others, their career branches off in different directions, and they seek other opportunities but still within the industry. 

My guest on today's podcast is Sophie Hill, who is a former salon hairdresser who transitioned through various areas of the industry and eventually formed her own successful P.R. company and has now morphed once again into the head of marketing with London based salon group Headmasters…

In today's podcast, Sophie and I talk about:

 

  • The opportunities there are in a hairdressing career
  • How the skills you learn as a hairdresser can help enormously if you choose to transition into other career paths 
  • We also talk about the changing role of P.R. and Marketing and how Social media is impacting on that
  • And we also talk about what salons should be focusing on as far as marketing and P.R. goes as we come out of lockdown …

 

In This Episode:

[02:41] Welcome to the show, Sophie!

[03:05] Sophie shares her background and journey to where she is today.

[04:40] Sophie speaks about what has driven her to reinvent herself over and over.

[07:32] She was a technical consultant for two years with L'Oréal.

[10:50] Listen, as Sophie discusses the different roles with P.R. marketing and social media.

[14:08] Sophie believes that social media hasn't replaced P.R or marketing.

[15:57] Do fewer salons have a P.R company now than they did ten years ago?

[18:42] Sophie says to try a social media platform and see which one works best for your clients.

[20:48] Sophie speaks about her company's email marketing campaigns.

[23:08] What three things would you suggest a salon owner focus on when it comes to P.R.?

[25:14] She shares a survey her company did, asking why people visited a certain salon and the results.

[27:54] Listen as Sophie speaks about where salons should focus their marketing during this pandemic.

[31:33] Sophie says that if you are an independent salon owner, stay in touch with your clients during the pandemic closures.

[33:32] What are the top three things that Headmasters have done consistently to grow to 56 salons?

[37:23] Antony believes that loyalty is a major part of being able to grow your company.

[41:00] Sophie speaks about the guidelines that Headmasters uses with their salon staff around social media.

[44:40] How do you see the retail model changing in the future?

[46:07] Sophie shares what her company is doing to cultivate e-commerce for selling products.

[47:24] Sophie discusses what she thinks will permanently change in the salon industry once the pandemic is over.

[50:25] Thank you so much for being on the show!

 

Links and Resources

 Grow My Salon Business 

Find Sophie

Headmasters

 LinkedIn

01 Jun 2021092 The Importance of Establishing Good Mental Health.01:11:14

As I am recording this it’s coming up to the end of May and in case you don’t know May has been Mental Health awareness month.    Earlier this month I hosted a room on Clubhouse that we recorded and the topic was “Hairdressers and mental Health”.    Many people shy away from discussing mental health openly as there are often stigmas attached to doing so but I am fortunate enough to have two wonderful human beings join me on this Clubhouse recording to talk openly and honestly about the importance of establishing good mental health.    They are Nina Kovner from Passion squared in the United States and Neil Moodie a high profile London based editorial stylist and both of them have like many of us grappled with their own mental health issues and are sharing their experiences today to help create better awareness and understanding of issues around mental health.   It’s an important podcast so I hope you take the time to listen and I hope you enjoy it…    

In This Episode:

[03:55] Welcome to the show, Nina and Neil!

[05:34] Nina shares her background and answers how you know the difference between feeling low and genuinely depressed?

[09:27] Neil shares his background and his experience with mental health.

[15:07] Are mental health issues hereditary? If your parents suffered from it, does it mean you will too?

[19:15] Nina discusses being a workaholic and how burnout was a trigger for her depression.

[23:17] Neil speaks about how his anxiety shows up in his life daily and how he deals with it.

[27:48] Do you take medication to even out the chemical imbalance?

[30:23] Nina adds her insights into what the medication does for her.

[32:17] Nina believes that alcohol and illegal drugs are a way to mask the issues.

[36:28] They discuss how marijuana has changed over the years and how strong it is now because it's being grown chemically instead of naturally.

[38:21] They talk about the psychedelic drugs produced in the 60s and 70s to help people but then were criminalized.

[41:35] Nina says that it is one day at a time that allows you to take the next step.

[41:58] What role does diet and exercise play in good mental health?

[46:36] Nina says there is no question that food and movement affect your chemistry.

[48:58] Neil shares some things that might work for people who have a mental illness.

[51:53] Nina discusses how social media can worsen mental health if you don't shut it down.

[53:37] Social media is a tool, but it's not a 24/7 thing.

[54:47] Neil says he has a love-hate relationship with social media and shares that sometimes it can trigger his anxiety.

[58:15] Nina speaks about how a hairdresser can reach out and signs that can identify folks who need help.

[1:01:43] Neil talks about how important it is to have a safe space for people to talk about their feelings.

[1:06:38] Nina agrees with Neil that talking about things is helpful as long as you have healthy boundaries.

[1:09:00] Thank you so much for talking about this with us.

Links and Resources

Grow My Salon Business

Club House @antonywhitaker 

Nina Kovner

Passion Squared

Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube

Neil Moodie

Neil Moodie

Instagram |  YouTube | Facebook | Twitter

28 Jun 2022147 What Does it Take to Bounce Back from COVID (and Everything Else Life Can Throw at You)?00:36:35

No matter where you live in the world, if there is one phrase that I’m sure you’re as tired of hearing as I am, it’s: ‘Unprecedented times.’

But, without doubt, the last couple of years have been tough for most people. We have been tested physically, financially and emotionally in our businesses and in our personal lives as a result of the drastic changes that have been thrust upon us.

Today is ‘Part 1’ of a two-part series focusing on what I am calling ‘comeback stories.’ I will be talking to two couples who have battled adversities and come out the other end in good shape! We can all learn from their resilience, willpower, strength, and courage. 

Henry Monreal and Liz Salcedo from Salon Ink in San Diego are my guests today. I spoke to them at the beginning of COVID and now, two years on, they have had a great turnaround in their business.

In today’s podcast we will discuss:

  • Their business journey and how they have bounced back post COVID
  • Dealing with major health challenges
  • Finding balance in both personal and business commitments…

And lots more!

In this Episode:

[04:17] The traumatic moment that took place in Liz and Henry lives in May 2019.

[10:11] What the initial COVID period looked like for Henry and Liz’s business, Salon Ink.  

[12:16] The philosophy that has kept Liz and Henry going through the tough times. 

[13:46] How Henry and Liz have rebuilt Salon Ink.

[18:36] Passion that Liz and Henry feel towards their work. 

[20:30] Motivation behind Salon Ink’s large retail section, and the benefits it has brought to the business.

[24:14] Why Henry and Liz have incorporated a large degree of flexibility into their business model.

[25:09] An important lesson that Liz and Henry learned during the pandemic. 

[21:21] 30: the number of weekly hours worked by 60% of US hairdressers. 

[28:16] The mindset that Henry and Liz’s employees have towards their work. 

[29:43] Potential that lies in the salon industry, using Liz and Henry’s life as an example. 

[31:31] Henry shares what his experiences over the past few years have taught him.

[33:08] Some of Liz’s key learnings, and what she believes to be her purpose in life. 

Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated! 

They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast. 

I also love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast! Just click here to review, scroll to the bottom, tap “Ratings and Reviews” tap to rate with 5 stars and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favourite part of the podcast is. Thank you for your support! Special thanks to Liz and Henry for sharing their story with me for this week’s episode. Until next time! Antony

Links and Resources:

Grow My Salon Business 

Website | Facebook | Instagram

 Salon Ink

Website | Instagram | Twitter | Facebook | TikTok

25 Feb 2020028 The Challenges of Juggling Multiple Roles in Life From Being a Wife, Mother, Stylist, and Business Owner01:01:43

I consciously go out of my way to interview a diverse range of people for the podcast. But, the one thing I know that they all have in common is that they are building successful, profitable businesses, regardless of where in the world they are.

 

My goal is to interview a range of people at all stages of their careers in various areas of the salon industry to bring you a mixture of inspiration, entertainment, and practical ideas and advice to help you grow your salon.

 

Today’s guest on the podcast is Maria Unali, a salon owner from Sydney Australia who opened Salon Kiin 4 years ago.

 

In today’s podcast we will discuss:

 

  • The challenge of juggling multiple roles in life from being a wife, mother, stylist, and business owner with all of the demands that come with it.
  • How to attract, nurture, and build a salon team.
  • And how to set guidelines around salon social media.

 

In This Episode:

[01:35] Welcome to the show, Maria!

[01:59] Maria shares her background, why she became a stylist and salon owner.

[04:20] Her salon has been open for four years and now has fifteen stylists.

[05:17] What are the advantages of having a salon on the outskirts of Sydney?

[07:01] Maria speaks about taking over her dad’s salon when he retired.

[09:35] Antony chats about the upside of being in the suburbs with keeping staff and clients.

[11:13] Can you tell us a little bit about your sustainable program? How do you pay for the program?

[14:51] Maria speaks about creating and cultivating her team culture and the acronym she built it on.

[17:20] Maria explains the one on ones she does consistently every month and the yearly retreat she treats her team too.

[19:15] A good team culture isn’t built overnight, and it evolves as people leave, and new people come in.

[22:00] Antony speaks about bringing in young people as trainees and the expectations they have.

[24:11] What are some practical everyday things you do to motivate your team?

[26:58] Maria shares her staff retention and how she keeps them motivated to stay.

[28:49] Maria discusses what young twenty-something employees want from an employer today.

[31:48] Maria shares a time when she almost lost her salon and how she turned it around.

[33:55] They discuss how doing shows can be seductive, but there is very little money to be made.

[35:16] At what profit margin are you currently running your salon? What hurdles have you had to overcome?

[37:29] Maria describes the color table in her salon and shares how it works with clients.

[40:01] How did you come up with the name Salon Kiin?

[40:23] Maria explains how she reacts when someone from her team leaves.

[42:35] They chat about some good leadership books that Maria likes.

[44:11] Maria speaks about fashion weeks and their importance to salons and stylists.

[46:34] What social media platforms do you use and how do you use it to market your business?

[48:00] Maria shares that her stylists all have personal social media accounts, but they have guidelines they have to use.

[50:56] What other technology do you use today to run your business?

[52:36] Maria speaks about the manager that helps her run parts of the company so that she has time away.

[54:34] Maria shares how she balances being a wife, mom, stylist, and business owner.

[56:17] How do you reinvent yourself creatively? How do you stay relevant?

[58:25] What advice do you have for someone who is going through what you have for the last four years?

[1:00:47] If you have enjoyed this podcast please take a screenshot and share it on your Instagram stories and tag us.

[1:01:19] Thank you, Maria, for being on the show today!


Links and Resources

 Grow My Salon Business 

 Raising Girls by Sissy Goff

Dare to Lead by Brene Brown

 How to Talk So Kids Will Listen and Listen So Kids Will Talk by Adele Faber

 

Find Maria

Maria Unali

@maria_unali

Instagram | Twitter 

Salon Kiin

@salonkiin

 Instagram | Facebook |  Pinterest

05 May 2020038 The Ever-Changing World of your Colour Business01:01:35

No matter where in the world you live, there are many changes happening that will impact the way we run our businesses forever.

Some of those changes have suddenly been thrust upon us due to Covid-19. Others have been gradually changing right under our noses and have maybe been highlighted by the situation the world is currently in.

One of those areas that are changing is the hair colour business. So, in today’s podcast, we are going to talk about all things ‘hair colour’ with Master Colourist David Adams, Co-Found of Red Chocolate, and The FourteenJay salon in New York.

David’s years of experience in this industry have included many different roles from salon colourist, educator, salon owner, trichologist, author, celebrity colourist, consultant and he has been heavily involved in the development of various products including a major colour line.

And as if all of that is not enough. Since David and his partner Virginia Meyer opened FourteenJay as well as servicing a regular clientele he has also been colouring hair for movies and editorials and has looked after the likes of Jennifer Lawrence, Kate Bosworth, Claudia Schiffer, Phoebe Waller-Bridge, to name a few.

In today’s podcast, we will discuss:

  • What are the changes happening in the hair colour business?
  • What impact is that having on the salon business?
  • Changes in product technology.
  • Salon sustainability.

 

And lots more!

 

In This Episode:

[02:04] Welcome to the show, David!

[02:46] David shares the journey through his career and the greats he has worked around.

[05:20] David speaks about forming his company Red Chocolate with Virginia Meyer.

[06:28] How active is the education business Red Chocolate?

[07:59] David discusses why he opened a new salon in New York.

[09:22] He speaks about it being a culture shock to get back into owning a salon, but it keeps him busy.

[10:21] Why did you study to become a trichologist?

[13:01] Has it been great for business? Do you need a network of doctors?

[17:22] David chats about clients taking him seriously as a trichologist.

[21:18] David discusses the online companies that are selling colour, what he thinks about them and how much of the salon colour market they will take.

[25:45] How different is the online product from what you get at a salon?

[27:13] David's two passions around hair colour are consultation and customer service.

[30:42] David shares that the online colour isn't as good as professional, but they have a great consultation.

[33:34] Do you charge for consultations at your salon?

[37:42] David discusses what he believes that salons should do to become sustainable.

[41:58] David speaks about cancer in hair dyes and what he tells his guests that ask about it.

[44:22] Do you do a patch test before you apply colour to a client's hair?

[46:31] David chats about the Plex type products.

[49:44] David believes that Plex products allow colourists to push the envelope of colour and hair further than it needs to be.

[51:14] David shares what he thinks about colour specialist salons, ones that the only colour.

[52:54] What are your thoughts on colour tables? Do you like them?

[55:05] David speaks about the business model of FourteenJay and the fact that they are in a commission-based salon.

[55:45] David shares some unique things they do at his salon for the guests.

[57:30] What long-term practices are you going to put into place once everything reopens?

[59:53] David, thank you so much for being on the podcast!

[1:01:01] If you like today's show, please write a review.

 

Links and Resources

 Grow My Salon Business 

 

Find David 

 David Adams

@fourteenjay

Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest

@redchoc

Facebook | Twitter

28 Apr 2020037 Planning for the recovery phase. Episode 200:53:46

This episode is a continuation from last week’s podcast about preparing for the recovery phase.

Things are starting to change very quickly with salons in some countries or states reopening or at least having a date in the diary and actively planning for that day.

And what is very apparent is that salon owners and clients are all expecting changes in the salon experience which will impact on the client, the team, and the business.

On today’s podcast, we will be talking to two industry leaders, Tina Black who is a multi salon and school owner in Michigan and Florida, and Liz Salcedo and Henry Monreal owners of Salon Ink in San Diego to see what they are planning as they get ready to reopen.

In This Episode:

[01:33] Welcome to the show, Tina!

[02:56] Tina discusses if the states, where her salons and schools are located, have set up any guidelines for salon owners to follow once they reopen them.

[05:01] Tina speaks about the salon owners groups she founded in both Michigan and Florida.

[05:40] What are some key things you believe every salon owner should have in place when they reopen?

[08:44] Tina chats about how they will continue social distancing and other things she will keep in place.

[11:27] Are you keeping the appointment times the same?

[14:26] Tina speaks about putting dishwashers in her salons, but they will use disposable cups at first.

[16:08] Tina shares about having a small desk at the front and having one person in charge of the book, plus they will have clients check out at the station.

[18:11] She is talking about having a limited menu for the first 60 to 90 days.

[20:13] If we walk into one of your salons, will all of your stylists be wearing masks?

[21:56] Tina shares what she has in place for her team to keep them motivated when the salon reopens.

[23:56] Tina speaks about what they have set up for sanitizing the stations and tools.

[25:21] Are you planning any celebration with your team?

[26:26] Tina says that they do not have a uniform, and her staff will wear what they have always done.

[29:10] Tina, thank you so much for being on the show today!

[29:33] Welcome to the show, Henry and Liz!

[30:23] Has your state put in any guidelines or rules that you will have to follow once you reopen?

[31:28] Liz shares some things they have put in place to make clients feel safe at Salon Ink.

[33:21] Liz speaks about some biodegradable plastic bags they have that will fit over the chairs that can be changed out after each client.

[34:54] Are the changes you are making going to be permanent or temporary?

[36:42] Liz chats about how they will sanitize the tools once they reopen.

[39:29] Henry says that they already use one time use cups for coffee and water.

[42:21] Are there any other changes that the client will notice? Appointments? No-touch payment methods?

[44:36] Henry shares that they have two types of business models in their salon; upstairs are salon suites, and downstairs the stylists are employees.

[48:18] When you bring your team in once they allow you to reopen, are you going to run the new protocols by your team before guests start coming?

[50:04] Henry speaks about not having uniforms and not changing that.

[51:24] Since your salon was closed for three months in 2019 for things out of your control, what should lessons have you learned that you want to give to other salon owners?

[55:11] Henry says he believes this will be an excellent time for the industry worldwide to add the value that has been lacking from a lot of other industries.

[56:26] Thank you both for being on the show today!

[56:50] Please share this podcast so we can get some positive information out to the world.

 

Links and Resources

 Grow My Salon Business 

 

Find Tina Black

Tina Black

LinkedIn |  Facebook | Twitter

 

Liz Salcedo and Henry Monreal

Salon Ink

@salonink

Instagram | Twitter | Facebook

12 Apr 2022136 What Does It Take to Build a Multi Salon Brand Where Everyone Is a Winner? With JUUT Salon Owner David Wagner.01:29:34

Many people open a salon with a dream to grow it into a big business. Unfortunately, only very few achieve that dream. 

In today's hairdressing industry there has been a growth in the independent stylist. The salon suite, The booth renter. The freelancer. The business unit of 1. But that business model certainly isn’t for everyone.

You can still build a brand, create a career path, and offer training and benefits and an amazing workplace culture that gives people a place to belong that is bigger than just them.

My guest on today's podcast has done that and so much more. He is David Wagner; hair stylist, artist, entrepreneur, educator, author and founder and owner of JUUT Salons.

 

In today’s episode we discuss:

  • What it takes to build a successful salon brand
  • The meaning of being a ‘day maker’
  • Creating salon culture 
  • The Covid impact …

 

And so much more!

 

In this Episode:

[03:13] David shares an overview of his journey from one of the very first Horst Rechelbacher scholars to the founder and CEO of Juut Salonspa.

[12:45] How David transformed a last-place salon into a first-place salon. 

[15:02] The serendipitous moment that David decided to open his own salon, and the growth that his business experienced in its first 3 years.

[17:05] Why David recommends either having one salon or more than two, and growing through acquisition rather than building from the ground up. 

[23:34] The key to successfully running salons across multiple states. 

[27:24] David shares the experiences which inspired Daymaker Movement, and his book, Life As a Daymaker.

[36:36] What David has learned about the value that the hairdressing professional brings to people’s lives. 

[41:22] How David created (and maintains) a thriving employee-based culture in his salons.  

[55:03] Why David refers to his salons as a collection rather than a chain. 

[57:14] The percentage of revenue that David considers to be a good profit (and why this has gone down over time).

[1:01:11] David’s suggestion for measuring retail sales. 

[1:04:10] An overview of the payment structure at Juut. 

[1:06:05] David shares his thoughts on the evolution of the salon suite model. 

[1:09:57] The impact that the Covid-19 pandemic has had on David’s business.

[1:14:44] What David believes to be his greatest strengths, the lesson that he would like to pass onto future generations of hair stylists, and what he wishes he was better at.

[1:21:43] Traits that David believes make for a good leader.

 

Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated! 

They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast. 

I also love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast! Just click here to review, scroll to the bottom, tap “Ratings and Reviews” tap to rate with 5 stars and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favourite part of the podcast is. Thank you for your support!

Special thanks to David for sharing his insights with me for this week’s episode. Until next time! 

Antony

 

Links and Resources:

Grow My Salon Business 

Website | Facebook | Instagram

Juut Salonspa

Website | Instagram | Facebook

David Wagner 

LinkedIn | Instagram

Daymaker Movement

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Podcast

Life As a Daymaker

 Book


27 Oct 2020061 “There Is No Planet B” We Are All In This Together!01:03:33

Today I am talking about sustainability, carbon footprints, being green, recycling, looking after the planet, etc… And sometimes I think that because that’s the very unsexy side of hairdressing that people might tune out …But I Really, Really want you to listen to this because as the posters say “There is no planet B’ and we are all in this together.” And the more educated, informed and aware we are the better for our collective wellbeing and the wellbeing of humanity.

 

My guest on today's Podcast is Fry Taylor Co-founder of greensaloncollective.com 

 

Green Salon Collective was founded by environmental experts, hairdressers & eco campaigners, GREEN SALON COLLECTIVE is the original authority on salon sustainability throughout the UK and Ireland.

 

Their vision is to facilitate salon sustainability by recycling the unrecyclable. The profits raised from the sale of all commodities get redistributed and recycled too by supporting charities & local communities, as well as aiding all salons on their own journey towards a greener future.

 

Now I know that about 30% of my audience is in the UK and Ireland the rest of you are American, Australian, Canadian, New Zealand, or scattered around another 50 countries. 

 

Green Salon Collective is a similar business to Green Circles in North America and Sustainable Salons in Australia, and I am sure there are more out there in other countries too. But, no matter where you are from, I encourage you to listen in to this podcast as there are some great initiatives being spoken about. 

 

In today’s podcast we discuss:

  • How participating in Green Salon Collective brings in new clients
  • Some amazing things that can be done with recycled salon materials that would normally end up in landfill
  • How profits are reinvested back into local communities

And lots more!

 

In This Episode:

[03:26] Welcome to the show, Fry!

[03:52] Fry shares an overview of what Green Salon Collective does.

[04:49] Why did you start this company?

[07:17] Fry speaks about GenZ and how they embrace recycling.

[09:09] Fry discusses how salon owners can benefit from a system like this.

[13:02] Listen as Fry shares how to justify the green fee to clients when they ask.

[16:53] Many salons across the world are charging PPE fees, so why not add on a green fee?

[19:00] Fry speaks about what the process looks like from a salon owner's perspective.

[21:38] They supply Salons with containers to help them separate the items to be recycled.

[25:08] Fry discusses how often the recycling is picked up and how much room they need for the boxes.

[26:45] Fry speaks about how hair is recycled.

[28:10] Fry shares a story about how hair is being used to absorb oil.

[30:10] He discusses how hair is used to make mats that can filter the trash from water in drainage systems.

[32:43] Fry speaks about other uses for recycled hair.

[35:09] Listen as Fry discusses what metals in a salon we can recycle.

[38:01] Fry gives some rough numbers on the amount of foil a salon can recycle.

[40:01] He shares the plastics they recycle and what they do with it.

[43:24] Gloves are tricky because they are contaminated; they use a special company to recycle them. 

[46:29] Is plastic wrap a recyclable commodity?

[47:28] Fry speaks about paper and cardboard recycling and how it is done.

[50:05] Listen as Fry discusses recycling salon chemicals.

[53:15] How does your company handle PPE?

[54:33] Fry talks about the charities they can support.

[56:23] He speaks about Paul Mitchell being the first product company to reach out to them.

[58:00] Fry discusses what he believes salons of the future will look like and how sustainable they will be.

[1:03:05] Thank you so much for being on the show today.

 

Links and Resources

 Grow My Salon Business 

 

Matter of trust - Who recycle hair and then create oil spill mats

 Oil spill hair booms

Precious Plastics 

Haircuts4homeless

Hair and Beauty Charity

Green Circle Salons

Sustainable Salons

Green Salon Collective

@greensaloncollective

 Instagram |  LinkedIn

 

18 Aug 2020051 Salons Are Full of Young People; As An Owner, You Need To Understand What Makes Them Tick – Part Two.00:39:46

In last weeks podcast, I interviewed two young hairdressers, one from the US and one from Australia with the aim of finding out what makes Millennials and Gen Z 'tick'.

We had a great response and so this week I’d like to wrap up with Deanna and James both from the UK talking about their goals and ambitions and what a career in hairdressing means to them.

Amongst other things, they recognise that they have the technology available to them in the form of the internet and social media etc that generations before didn’t have and obviously that impacts on the marketing of themselves and how they learn.

But, the thing that stood out to me is that none of them used money as the reason why they left a job or what they looked for in a job.

Instead, they all spoke about the importance of family and being part of something bigger than themselves.

They spoke about wanting to belong to a community… not just in the local sense but also in the professional sense.

They spoke about wanting to grow as professionals and wanting career opportunities… and you could just tell that they all loved and I mean loved doing hair!

So if we want to keep people like this in our industry and in your salon, what are the opportunities that you are creating in your salon?

What are the things that you do to make your team feel recognised and acknowledged?

What are the things that you could do to make them feel like they're part of a bigger community and to give them a greater sense of purpose?

Sure they might be a few years younger than you and I, but are their needs and expectations really that different?

In This Episode:

[01:57] Welcome to the show, Deanna!

[02:19] Deanna shares her background in hairdressing.

[03:51] Listen as Deanna discusses why she has changed salons.

[04:42] What four things do you think stylists in your generation are looking for when picking a salon?

[06:48] Deanna speaks about how important it is to work in a salon that allows her to grow.

[08:59] Deanna shares her insights into cutting hair when styles change.

[10:17] If you owned a salon, what things would you do to motivate your team?

[11:24] Deanne speaks about how she likes best to learn new things.

[14:00] Deanne shares what her favorite social media is for promoting herself.

[14:48] What percentage of clients have you gotten from social media?

[17:59] Deanna shares where she hopes to be and what she wants to accomplish in the next five years.

[19:47] Deanna discusses why she thinks her generation is moving toward working independently versus working in a salon.

[21:43] Thank you for being on the show!

[21:58] Welcome to the show, James!

[22:15] James shares his backstory and why he became a barber.

[24:04] What do you look for when looking for a barbershop to work in?

[28:26] James discusses how important it is to him to have the opportunity to grow in the barbershop he is working with.

[29:20] What things do you think a salon or barbershop owner should do to motivate their team?

[31:33] James speaks about how having a product target or service target motivates him.

[32:48] James discusses the role that Instagram does to help build his client base.

[34:34] How much time do you spend on Instagram each day.

[35:55] James, thank you for being on the show!

[36:20] Antony shares what he saw in the young hairdressers he interviewed in these two episodes.

[39:18] Thank you for listening to the show!

Links and Resources

 Grow My Salon Business

Find Deanna

@hairby_deanna.x 

Instagram

Find James

@jamesoliverhayes

Instagram

23 Feb 2021078 Bonus Episode with Mark Hayes01:20:55

There are very few job titles in the hairdressing world that carry with them the responsibility of not just keeping a legacy alive, but also having the courage to evolve and reinvent it to maintain its relevance in a fast-changing world. 

 

Perhaps the most significant job that carries that responsibility is being the International creative director of Sassoon, a title that has only ever been held by 4 people: Roger Thompson, Christopher Brooker, Tim Hartley and Mark Hayes. 

 

The Sassoon brand started when Vidal Sassoon opened his first salon in Bond St London in 1954 and here we are 66 years later and the Sassoon brand is still arguably at the top of the tree in many ways and still very much a major force to be reckoned with.

 

My guest on Today's podcast is a good friend and the current International Creative Director of Sassoon Salons and Schools Mark Hayes

 

In today’s podcast we discuss:

  • What is creativity and how to direct the creative process
  • How we can all contribute to making hairdressing a more desirable career choice… and 
  • How training is changing with new attitudes and technology

And lots more!

 

In This Episode:

[02:05] Welcome to the show, Mark!

[02:45] Mark shares how he has been handling the pandemic both personally and professionally.

[06:06] Antony talks about how important communication with your team is for small salon owners during this time.

[06:48] Mark discusses how Sassoon is keeping in contact with their stylists, clients, and teams in general.

[09:36] Mark believes that come spring, they will be back to work and wants to be ready to hit the ground running.

[11:01] Mark describes his definition of creativity.

[13:43] Mark speaks about the Ted Talk with Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi on Flow.

[16:16] Mark talks about a hairdresser he used to watch that had huge hands.

[18:28] Mark shares the cuts he used to do on stage.

[19:27] Antony says that he was always good at cutting hair but wasn't that great at finishing hair.

[23:29] Antony speaks about clients walking away from hairdressers, putting their hands in their hair and bringing it to life by making it more their style.

[24:30] The most successful people are the ones who have a connection to the person they are working on.

[26:45] Mark believes you have to be aware that it is a collaboration between the stylists and the client.

[29:32] Antony discusses a stylist he used to watch that brought an element of beauty that he didn't believe he could achieve.

[30:44] Mark believes that it's a confidence thing more than a femininity thing.

[33:00] Mark speaks about his role at Sassoon.

[36:56] What excites you about hair these days?

[38:36] Mark shares what excites him about his salon after all these years.

[41:48] Mark discusses talking with young hairdressers about Sassoon's legacy.

[43:49] Is there anything in hindsight that you wanted to explore that you haven't done over the years of your career?

[47:33] Mark speaks about the hairdressers of Sassoon over the years.

[49:28] Mark discusses the responsibility of being the International Creative Director of Sassoon.

[52:16] Mark talks about the people he learned from over the years.

[53:59] Mark shares what the industry needs to do to make hairdressing a career for more individuals.

[57:05] Once you get people in the industry, you have to be able to keep them.

[58:56] What does the Sassoon brand represent to GenX?

[1:01:36] Mark discusses how technology is affecting the industry both in education and internally at Sassoon.

[1:05:28] Antony talks about launching his new course and the diversity of people that have signed up for it.

[1:08:51] Mark speaks about changing traditional salons' operations and their business models.

[1:11:49] Mark believes that Vidal Sassoon was one of the industry's biggest disruptions during his time.

[1:13:48] What is your biggest strength? Humor.

[1:14:00] What drives you? Responsibility.

[1:14:16] How do you reinvent yourself? Be true to yourself.

[1:15:28] What is the biggest lesson you've learned? Be empathic.

[1:15:53] How do you overcome adversity? Don't obsess over it.

[1:16:18] What do you wish you were better at? I wish I were less impatient.

[1:17:19] If you could go back and give the sixteen-year-old you advice, what would it be? Don't worry; you are good enough to be there.

[1:18:56] Mark shares some final words.

[1:20:30] Thank you for being on the show!


Links and Resources

 Grow My Salon Business 

YouTube Ted Talk with Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi

Bonus Episode - Re-release of an interview with Mark Hayes recorded in 2015.

Mark Hayes

 Mark Hayes

@markhsassoon

Instagram | Twitter | Pinterest

08 Dec 2020067 A Refreshing and Insightful Approach to Salon Ownership00:59:08

One of the many things I love about Instagram is the ability it gives us to connect and showcase our work and to be inspired by what other salon owners are doing all over the world.

 

But, let's face it... there's a lot of 'backs of heads' and 'beachy waves with balayage' out there…

 

But then occasionally, you come across interesting hair, beautiful haircuts, and a modern approach to all things business, from sustainability to inclusivity, diversity, and everything in between, and it's so refreshing!     

 

My guest on today's Podcast is Raven Camacho, hair stylist, and owner of Raven Row Salon in Austin, Texas.

 

In today's podcast, we discuss:

  • Salon marketing
  • Building a team culture
  • Sustainability
  • And just generally, what makes Raven tick…

 

In This Episode:

[01:44] Welcome to the show, Raven!

[02:40] Raven shares her background and journey into salon ownership.

[04:34] Listen as Raven discusses how COVID has affected her business.

[06:44] Raven shares how she found and bought the salon she owns now.

[08:30] Raven speaks about the challenges she had taken the business from chair rental to a total commission salon.

[10:55] Antony shares his experiences in buying an existing salon.

[13:11] At what point did you know it was time to open a salon?

[15:45] Raven shares what she wished she would have known before opening the salon.

[16:43] Raven says they have 17 on their team right now.

[18:29] Raven speaks about always wanting to stay fresh and how she feels about posting on social media.

[21:08] Antony shares what stands out on Raven's Instagram feed about how they cut hair.

[24:05] Raven discusses her love affair with plants and how gardening allows her to shut her mind off.

[26:16] Raven speaks about the Cut-A-Thon they did to help Australia during the bush fires.

[27:55] What are three things a salon owner should do to create a good team culture?

[29:41] Raven shares the number one value her team has.

[30:44] Listen as Raven discusses the product lines they use that align with their values.

[32:44] Raven speaks about the importance of awards to her team and why.

[35:35] Raven shares how she balances her team's schedules and pricing so they can work less.

[38:33] Raven discusses the girl power vibe her salon has, but she is open to working with men if they are like-minded.

[41:20] Raven shares why inclusion and equality are so important to her and the salon's culture.

[43:46] How has social media affected the growth of your salon?

[46:09] Raven says they don't set guidelines around the team's social media accounts.

[48:24] Raven speaks about their staff retention.

[49:25] Listen as Raven shares how she navigates the changes happening in the industry.

[52:15] What's your biggest strength?

[52:55] Listen to her intuition is the chief thing she has learned over the years.

[55:09] Raven gives some advice for the new hairdresser when navigating the industry.

[58:32] Thank you so much for being on the show!

 

Links and Resources

 Grow My Salon Business 


Find Raven Camacho

Raven Row Salon

@ravenrowsalon

Facebook | Instagram

@soraverly

 Instagram

30 Apr 2024242 Is a Salon Partnership a Good Idea?00:16:08

Recently I was asked by a young hairdresser whether or not I thought he should go into partnership with a friend and open a salon together. 

 

Partnerships are one of the many subjects we cover in the online management course that is currently open for enrolment, but I think it’s a great question and will make a good podcast topic as well.

 

Unfortunately, partnerships in small businesses don’t have a high success rate. In today's episode, I will cover some of the key elements that need to be put in place to give a partnership the best possible chance of success. 

In this Episode:


[00:01:13] Introducing the topic of partnerships in the salon business and the importance of setting them up correctly.

[00:01:56] Addressing the Reality of Partnership Endings

[00:04:20] The importance of partners discussing potential challenges preemptively.

[00:05:57] A list of the twelve potential challenges partnerships may face.

[00:12:43] Advice for fostering successful partnerships, including open communication and mutual respect.

           

 

Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated! 

They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast. 

I also love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast! Just click here to review, scroll to the bottom, tap “Ratings and Reviews” tap to rate with 5 stars and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favourite part of the podcast is. Thank you for your support!

Until next time!
 

Antony

 

Links and Resources:

 

Grow My Salon Business 


Website | Facebook | Instagram

 

11 Mar 2025286 Is this the FUTURE of Hair Colour?01:03:06

Is the future of professional hair colour undergoing a massive reinvention?

Today's guests are Leilani Macedo, a seasoned salon owner, and Charles Brown, a tech entrepreneur who is passionate about applying Artificial Intelligence to real-world problems. And together they cofounded CLICS to create a solution for the problems around the current model of professional hair colour.

 

So if you’re interested in tech, entrepreneurship, the salon business and what could be the future of professional hair colour, then this episode is for you…

 

In today’s podcast, we discuss:

 

✅ The problems with the existing model around professional hair colour and how CLICS uses AI to solve those problems

✅ Pricing and Automated hair colour Inventory management 

✅ How CLICS is totally changing the professional hair colour game

 

And lots more!


 

IN THIS EPISODE:


[01:17] Introducing Leilani Macedo, a seasoned salon owner with industry wisdom, and Charles Brown, a tech entrepreneur passionate about using AI to transform traditional models.
[02:42] How Leilani and Charles crossed paths a serendipitous meeting that sparked their collaboration and set the stage for a revolutionary approach to hair colour.
[04:19] The Birth of Clics: how a simple idea evolved into Clics—laying the groundwork for what would become a groundbreaking solution in the industry.
[10:32] Hear how an unexpected source of inspiration at Home Depot ignited innovative thinking, reshaping ideas about service and product delivery.
[13:37] Examine the technological obstacles faced by the industry and explore the creative solutions that are pushing the envelope in hair colour tech.
[19:54] Discuss why effective inventory management is essential in the salon business and how automation can streamline operations.
[32:21] Understand the intricate challenges involved in developing and launching an innovative hair colour line.
[33:33] Learn why maintaining consistency is crucial for building customer trust and a strong salon reputation.
[34:15] Explore the integration of AI in the mixing process and its potential to deliver precise, customized colour results.
[43:34] Discover how the smart bowl concept is not only enhancing precision but also playing a key role in waste reduction.
[45:26] Look at how innovative inventory solutions are revolutionizing salon operations and boosting efficiency.
[51:57] Learn about customized strategies designed to give independent stylists and boutique salons a competitive edge in a changing market.
[01:01:30] Conclude the episode with key takeaways, final reflections from our guests, and all the contact details for staying in touch.

 

Want MORE to help you GROW?

 

📚 Check out our Bestselling GROW Books https://growmysalonbusiness.com/books/

🆘 Management overwhelm!? Download our free checklist! This checklist will help you get clarity on where you're at https://growmysalonbusiness.com/management-checklist/

 

 

RATINGS + REVIEWS

 

🙏Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated! They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast.

👉 Here's what you do:

- On your phone,Click here  (Read steps below first)

- Scroll down to 'Ratings & Reviews'

- Tap on the empty purple stars and rate 5 stars

- Click on ‘Write a Review’ I love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast! Thank you for your support! 🙏

Until next time!
 Antony

 

 

👉 FOLLOW US!

Instagram | Facebook | Website

 

 

👉 FOLLOW CLICS!

Instagram | Instagram - Leilani Macedo | Website | LinkedIn Leilani | LinkedIn Charles

26 Mar 2019001 Welcome to The Grow My Salon Business Podcast!00:04:49

Welcome to the ‘Grow My Salon Business Podcast.' 

We live in amazing times and we are in a great industry, and arguably one that’s evolving faster than at anytime in the past, so keeping informed, being inspired and open to change is now more important than ever before. 

This podcast series is primarily aimed at salon owners and managers, and the focus is clearly aimed at providing practical help, ideas and advice. But I also want to challenge your thinking and inspire you to ‘step up’ and get out of your comfort zone so that you can build the salon business that you have always dreamed of.

I am going to be speaking with what could loosely be described as ‘thought leaders’ in the industry across many different countries. Some of them you will know others you may never have heard of, but I promise you that they will all bring something insightful to the table, something that can help you to grow your salon business.

Someone once said to me, “Whatever the question is, the answer is ‘Education’.” Well, my goal is that this podcast series will help in your education, on your journey to build the successful salon business that you dreamt about.

18 May 2021090 Lessons in Kindness: Winn Claybaugh's Impact on Hairdressing01:04:05

My guest on the show today is Ashley Toliver Williams. She is a salon owner, educator and entrepreneur from Houston Texas and she has a passion and commitment to the industry that is refreshing no matter where you are from.… so listen up, this is another great episode…

In today’s podcast we discuss:

  • Changing the reputation of the salon industry
  • Where salon owners should be focusing their time
  • The responsibility to train your team to be better humans as well as better hairdressers and…
  • What is ‘salon culture’ and how do you create it

And lots more!

 

In This Episode:

[01:58] Welcome to the show, Ashley!

[02:30] Ashley shares her background and her journey through the hair industry.

[06:03] What do you do for fun?

[08:30] Ashley discusses what she tells salon managers and owners about what they need to be focused on right now and tells a story around this.

[14:22] Antony talks about the difference between the salon side of being a salon owner and the business side of the business. 

[16:38] Ashley shares why she chose the words: Changing the world view of professional stylists and salons.

[19:36] Ashley believes that the professional hairdresser can change the world, and she explains why.

[22:43] What do you think are the biggest challenges that face salon owners today?

[25:18] Ashley discusses what she thinks about the new business model of salon suites and the independent salons.

[29:42] What type of business model do you have in your salon?

[30:51] Ashley shares what she believes makes a successful salon with a commission-based business model.

[34:32] Ashley believes that hairdressers have to be consistent to be successful.

[35:56] “The successful people in this industry own their business behind the chair, regardless of how they’re paid or what their responsibility level is.” 

[37:30] Ashley talks about working smarter, not harder, and how many people don’t understand it.

[41:06] “People need to step up and own the space of leadership they are in.”

[42:49] What does the apprenticeship in your salon look like?

[45:35] Ashley shares what they do to train the human, not the stylist.

[48:12] What are you looking for when you need to hire new stylists?

[52:44] Ashley talks about how she defines culture and how she built the culture in her salon.

[55:49] Ashley shares the top three key performance indicators that she looks at in her business with her team members.

[1:00:43] Ashley explains what she means by their care factor matrix and what they are looking for.

[1:03:24] Thank you so much for being on the show!

 

Links and Resources

Register for my FREE masterclass 'The 5 Steps to Unlock your Salon's Potential' 

Grow My Salon Business

Club House @antonywhitaker 

 

 Ashley Toliver Williams

 Fringe Salon & Beauty Bar

 Fuse Republic

@fuserepublic

 Facebook |  Instagram

@ashleytoliverwilliams

 Instagram

30 Nov 2021117 Why Being Restless Helps You Grow with Jason and Joshua Miller01:00:47

I had successful salons for 14 years, and like every business, they had their ups and downs …but definitely far more good times than bad. 

The reality is that most businesses don’t last 14 years, so when you meet the owners of businesses that have survived and continue to grow and constantly reinvent for 56 years you know that there are some valuable lessons for the rest of us.   

My guests on today's Podcast are Jason and Joshua Miller whose parents, Janet and Charlie Miller, started the Charlie Miller salons in Edinburgh, Scotland 56 years ago. 

And those salons continue to flourish and reinvent to this day.

In this episode we discuss:

  • The key to business longevity
  • Creating loyalty
  • Embracing change
  • The importance of giving back

And lots more...

 

In this Episode:

[02:35] Jason and Joshua share what each of their salon industry journey’s have looked like, and what their current roles entail. 

[10:16] Two key ingredients that have kept the Charlie Miller salons going strong for 56 years. 

[12:31] What drew Joshua and Jason to join their parents’ salon, and the paths their own children have taken. 

[16:22] Culture and mindset that characterize the Charlie Miller salons.

[19:57] The gift that Charlie Miller (Jason and Joshua’s dad) gave to the Dalai Lama. 

[23:35] Joshua and Jason’s belief in, and commitment to, education and training for hairdressers.

[27:48] The “tour” that Charlie Miller employees go on in their third year, and the value that this has brought to the salons. 

[31:44] How Jason and Joshua have managed to successfully expand their business to five Edinburgh based salons. 

[38:14] Recent changes that Joshua and Jason have seen taking place in the salon industry, and what they hope to preserve from the past. 

[43:14] Differences between what motivated the older generation of hairdressers and what motivates the current one. 

[47:23] How the COVID-19 pandemic has affected the Charlie Miller salons.  

[52:25] Why Jason and Joshua don’t want to change their business model too much.

[54:24] Charlie Miller salons’ long term collaboration with the Teenage Cancer Trust. 

[59:20] Where to find Charlie Miller salons online. 

 

Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated!  

They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast. 

I also love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast! Just click here to review, scroll to the bottom, tap “Ratings and Reviews” tap to rate with 5 stars and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favourite part of the podcast is. Thank you for your support! 

Special thanks to Jason and Joshua for sharing their insights with me for this week’s episode. Until next time! 

Antony

 

Links and Resources:

 

Grow My Salon Business 

 

Website | Facebook | Instagram

 

Charlie Miller

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram |  Instagram [Haircare] | Instagram [Artistic Team]

28 Sep 2021108 Should I start a salon from scratch or buy an existing business?00:57:33

A question that I am often asked is, "Should I start a salon from scratch or buy an existing business?" This was the topic of a recent clubhouse event that I hosted, and I've recorded it for you as it's always a relevant topic that arouses a lot of interest. I know that you're going to enjoy it.Like most things, there is not a one-size-fits-all answer to cover all cases, and there are multiple things to factor in and some 'for and againsts' to consider before making a decision that is right for you. Sharing the mic with me today is Tina Black and Cindi Quinn-Ventura, both salon owners who, like myself, have either bought existing salons or started a business from scratch. We openly share our experiences of what worked and what didn't.For those who want more information, you should check out episode 63 on the Grow My Salon Business podcast that I did in 2020, where I discussed the same topic.

In this Episode:

[0:02:14] An introduction to my two guests, and the topic we are going to be co covering today.

[0:03:11] My experience of starting a salon business from scratch compared to my experience of buying a salon. 

[0:07:02] Why it’s so hard to answer the question of whether it’s better to build a salon from scratch or buy one. 

[0:08:21] Major learnings that Tina had when she entered the salon industry. 

[0:09:53] The business model that Tina has developed for her salons. 

[0:13:10] Cindi’s educational and professional background, and how she made her way into the salon industry. 

[0:16:16] Important lessons that Cindi learned when she transitioned from the corporate world to being the owner of a salon. 

[0:19:52] Factors that indicate what a business is worth. 

[0:25:00] The importance of culture in determining the success of a salon. 

[0:27:53] A red flag to look out for when buying a salon business.

[0:30:15] Challenges Cindi faced when bought her salon business. 

[0:34:11] The gift that the COVID-19 pandemic gave to Cindi. 

[0:36:15] Tina’s experience of buying a salon where the previous owner stayed on as part of the business. 

[0:36:58] Advantages and disadvantages of having the previous owner stay on after the business has been sold. 

[0:39:00] Why changing a culture as a new salon owner is so difficult. 

[0:43:49] A for and against list comparing starting a business from scratch and buying an existing business:

 

Starting a business from scratch

For:

  • Create the culture you want from day one
  • Employ people to fit the culture you want
  • Create the salon design you want from scratch
  • No negative history

Against:

  • Cost of fit-out
  • No existing clients
  • No existing staff
  • No trading history
  • Lacking salon systems and expertise

Buying an existing business

For:

  • Existing infrastructure 
  • Existing client base
  • Existing staff
  • Existing relationships with vendors and suppliers
  • Existing systems
  • Instant cash flow (in theory)

Against:

  • Possibly pay too much for the business
  • Inherit a culture you may not like
  • Inherit business relationships you may not like
  • Existing staff often leave
  • Staff and clients often resistant to change 

[0:48:17] What Cindi would do differently if she could go back in time. 

[0:49:10] The culture that Cindi is now trying to build. 

[0:51:20] A panel member shares his successful experience with taking over existing salon businesses.

[0:54:23] Final words of advice from Tina for anyone interested in buying an existing salon.

 

Links and Resources:

Grow My Salon Business

Club House @antonywhitaker 

Instagram Grow My Salon Business

Cindi Quinn-Ventura

LinkedIn

Instagram

Tina Black

Instagram

10 Sep 2024260 Your Salon Team Can Win GOLD Too! 00:14:15

Every four years, the Olympics and the Paralympics come along. 


And even if you’re not someone who is usually that fussed by athletics, swimming, gymnastics, etc., you just can’t help but be exposed to it, whether it’s on Social media, the news or on TV, it’s everywhere! 


And if you’re like most people, you can’t help but be impressed with what those incredible athletes are capable of. 


But what we see is the ‘end results’ after years of commitment and dedication.


So what's that got to do with hairdressing?  On the surface, it has nothing to do with hairdressing. 


But I can’t help thinking about the parallels that there are about ‘being the best’ at whatever it is that you do.


In today’s episode, I talk about how being good at anything in life requires you to make finer distinctions about whatever it is that you want to master. 


It requires training, it requires huge levels of commitment and determination, and it requires sacrifice in other areas of your life in order to achieve the goal whatever it is.

In this Episode:


00:00 Introduction and explanation for last week's missing episode

01:35 A moment of reflection

02:46 The path to success: lessons from the Olympics

04:54 Parallels between sport and hairdressing

08:45 The importance of making distinctions

12:08 Introducing the Super Stylist Course


Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated! 

They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast. I also love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast! 

Just click here to review, scroll to the bottom, tap “Ratings and Reviews” tap to rate with 5 stars and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favourite part of the podcast is. Thank you for your support!

And finally, don’t forget to subscribe to the show to get automatic updates.

Until next time!

Antony


Links and Resources mentioned:


Watch: “We’re the Super Humans” Rio Paralympics 2016 trailer.

Grow My Salon Business 


Super Stylist Online Course | Website | Facebook | Instagram


🙏 Our thoughts and prayers go out to Mikey Denton and his family.

To reach out on Instagram @MikeyDenton and @Kendelle_p

A GoFundMe campaign to help with funeral expenses and bereavement counselling has been set up to help support the family.
You can Donate Here


18 Jan 2022124 A Solution to a Salon Industry Problem, Minimising Waste With Victoria Tarrant of SmartMix00:56:51

The fact that you are listening to this means that you are probably a salon owner and therefore could probably be loosely described as an entrepreneur.  

And if you are a regular listener, you’ve probably gathered that I love nothing more than a good entrepreneurial story where we get an insight and an understanding into the highs and lows of what it takes each of us on our unique journey to turn the dream into reality. 

Because when we share our dream and the journey we take, it gives others the inspiration and courage to pursue their dream too.

My guest on this episode is Victoria Tarrant a hairdresser who has a dream to solve a problem that exists in every salon, and that is addressing the issue of colour wastage and everything surrounding that from the impact that has on salon profits to correct pricing of colour services, the environmental impact waste has and efficient inventory management.  

In this episode we discuss:

  • What exactly is ‘SmartMix’?
  • How it differs from competing brands
  • The journey Victoria has taken to get it to the point it's at …

And lots more!

In this Episode:

[02:40] Victoria shares the origins of her hairdressing career and an overview of what her journey has looked like since.

[05:07] The issue that inspired Victoria’s app, SmartMix, and how her idea evolved over time. 

[09:00] Jerry Rihll; the influential role that he has played in the success of SmartMix.  

[14:40] Competition in the colour mixing space, and what makes SmartMix stand out.

[18:23] How Victoria funded SmartMix, and the process she went through to develop the app. 

[23:36] Pushback that Victoria received from stylists when SmartMix was launched, and how the app won them over. 

[27:34] A rundown of how to use the SmartMix app. 

[34:15] The charitable element that Victoria hopes to link to SmartMix.

[36:04] An experiment: the amount of colour waste that Victoria accumulated in the space of 38 weeks.

[37:50] The reporting system that encourages stylists to use the SmartMix app, and what Victoria found to be the most powerful incentive. 

[41:23] How stylists access the SmartMix app, and the other systems that it is linked to. 

[45:41] Plans that Victoria has for the future of SmartMix. 

[48:51] Characteristics that Victoria has which have helped her succeed. 

[50:38] Two valuable pieces of advice from Victoria for any aspiring entrepreneurs. 

 

Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated! 

They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast. 

I also love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast! Just click here to review, scroll to the bottom, tap “Ratings and Reviews” tap to rate with 5 stars and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favourite part of the podcast is. Thank you for your support!

Special thanks to Victoria for sharing her insights with me for this week’s episode. Until next time! 

Antony

 

Links and Resources:

Grow My Salon Business 

Website | Facebook | Instagram

Precision Colour [SmartMix]

Website | Facebook | Instagram

Victoria’s Hair Design

Website

Victoria Tarrant 

 LinkedIn


17 Nov 2020064 Even in This Time of COVID, Some Salons Are Growing. What Are They Doing Differently?00:59:05

I get the privilege every week to talk with salon owners all over the world, and some of them are doing it really tough, and believe it or not, others are doing better than ever! 

Now I know there are many reasons as to why some salons are doing well, and others have been decimated, and it’s not always in your control, and so I don’t want to belittle the very real struggles that some salons are facing because of COVID and lockdowns, etc. 

But over the next few weeks, I want to focus on what I am calling ‘Comeback stories’ because we all need some good news to focus on and always to be looking for how we can tweak our approach as salon owners. 

So on that note, my guest today on the Podcast is Tony Walmsley. Tony is the owner of the Anthony John salon in England, and even though England has gone back into lockdown at least until the 2nd of December, Tony’s business has consistently been growing over the last 12 months. So if you are like me, you will want to know what are the things he’s doing that might help your business… 

 

So, in today’s podcast, we will discuss:

  • The role that leadership plays.
  • Tony talks about his marketing strategy…and 
  • The importance of building a team culture

And lots more!

 

In This Episode:

[02:40] Welcome to the show, Tony!

[03:19] Tony shares his background and his journey into the beauty industry.

[05:41] Listen, as Tony discusses how his salon has continued to grow throughout the pandemic.

[08:40] Have you lost any team members because of COVID?

[10:06] Tony speaks about the new team members he has hired.

[12:59] Tony discusses what leadership looks like in his salon from day to day.

[15:32] Tony says they start each day with a team brief to begin the day on track.

[18:04] The most important thing Tony has learned as a salon owner is having conversations as quickly as you can and being proactive.

[20:27] As a leader, how do you overcome adversity?

[23:23] Tony speaks about what he wishes he was better at.

[24:52] Tony shares what he believes his biggest strengths are.

[27:38] What did you learn from the first lockdown to help you prepare for this second lockdown?

[30:02] Tony says that he reaches out to one of his team members every day to make sure they are ok and in the right frame of mind to return.

[34:00] Listen as Tony shares how they have been keeping in contact with their clients.

[38:09] Tony speaks about the social media platforms he uses to connect with his clients.

[39:14] Tony shares his marketing strategy and marketing approach through COVID.

[41:20] They are sharing their safety protocols with their clients through social media.

[43:55] Did you get any push back on the safety tax you are charging clients?

[44:57] Tony talks about how they changed their scheduling to accommodate social distancing.

[47:55] Tony speaks about where his inspiration comes from.

[52:13] Tony shares that he doesn’t follow the industry because he wants to do things differently than everyone else.

[54:55] Tony details his steps to create a positive and nurturing culture.

[56:12] Antony speaks about the filters he used when he was hiring team members.

[58:34] Tony, thank you for being on the show!

 

Links and Resources

 Grow My Salon Business 

 

Find Tony Walmsley

 Anthony John Salons

@anthony_John_Salons

Instagram

@anthony_John_Walmsley

Instagram

13 Aug 2019013 The Challenges and Opportunities’ the Industry Presents with Sally Brooks00:40:37

For an industry that is probably 80% female and 20% male there is often a disparity between the recognition and high profile that the male hairdressers get against what the leading female hairdressers achieve. One notable exception is today's guest on the Grow My Salon Business Podcast, London based Hairdresser Sally Brooks.   On today's podcast we will discuss: 

  • The hairdressing documentary by Sally Brooks and Gabriel Maciuca
  • Hairdressing awards and
  • The challenges and opportunities’ the industry presents today
06 Aug 2024256 Hairdressing and Happiness go Hand in Hand with Oscar Bond00:47:08

These days, we talk a lot about mental health and self-care and rightly so.

 

The most simple aim in life is to be happy. And if we can leave everyone we come into contact with a little happier for the experience, then surely that's a day well spent. 

 

My guest on today's podcast is Oscar Bond, not only is he one of the happiest people I know, but he's also a great hairdresser, a very accomplished educator, a great entertainer, and he has a stutter, and the most refreshing thing is he couldn't care less about it.

 

Like most of us, Oscar admits to having all the daily challenges that we all face, and amongst the good times he has had some tough times in business. 

 

But through it all, he's always smiling and makes those around him lighten up and laugh.

 

In today's podcast, we will discuss:

 

●      Happiness

●      Stuttering …and…

●      Overcoming the challenges that life throws at you

 

And lots more!

 

 

In this Episode:

 
00:51 Meet Oscar Bond: The king of happiness
01:25 The secret to happiness
07:11 Dealing with stuttering
18:17 Oscar's journey: From Sassoon's UK to the USA
20:56 Facing Adversity: The school fire and bankruptcy
24:18 Appreciating life and work
25:06 Facing bankruptcy and recovery
26:18 The importance of having supportive people in your life.
30:09 Challenges in the Salon Industry today
32:23 The shift towards independent salons
36:01 Leadership and excellence in salons
37:51 The evolution of haircutting trends
43:50 Connect with Oscar on social media
45:29 Final thoughts and farewell

 

 

Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated! 

They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast. 

I also love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast! Just click here to review, scroll to the bottom, tap “Ratings and Reviews” tap to rate with 5 stars and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favourite part of the podcast is. Thank you for your support!
 
 

Until next time!
 
 

Antony

 

Links and Resources:

 

Grow My Salon Business 

 
Website | Facebook | Instagram

 
Oscar Bond

Instagram

 

Podcasts mentioned on this episode

Episode 136 with David Wagner

Episode 141 with Van Council

Episode 244 with Eric Fisher 

 

05 Nov 2019018 How to Maximise the Profitability of your Colour Services with Alicia Soulier of Salon Scale00:58:08

This year I've spent a lot of time in the United States with John Paul Mitchell Systems presenting one of my favourite seminars that I call ‘GROW MY COLOR BUSINESS' which is something we should all be focused on.   As hairdressers, it’s essential that we know how to consult and design and apply a colour. But it’s equally important that we know how to make money from it.   I'm currently sitting in a Hotel room in Las Vegas and for today's podcast, I'm online talking with Alicia Soulier in Saskatchewan Canada. Aleisha is a hairdresser, salon owner and founder of tech company SalonScale.com which is a hair colour app that amongst other things ensures that you know the exact cost of product in every colour service leaving the salon - Which means that you can, therefore, price your colour services accordingly.   I think that there are two stories here, one is the Salon Scale story and how the app can help salon owners and hairdressers. And the other is about a young woman who is a hairdresser who starts a tech company and succeeds against all odds…   Amongst other things, we will discuss 

  • The problems that SalonScale solves
  • How to maximise the profitability of your colour services
  • How should you price salon colour services
  • What is the typical percentage of a colour service that should be product cost?

Thanks for listening!

Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please share it using the social media buttons at the side or bottom of this post.

Also, I’d love it if you’d leave an honest review for The Grow My Salon Business Podcast. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated! They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast, I also love to hear what’s been helpful!

And finally, don’t forget to subscribe to the show on iTunes or  Google to get automatic updates 

Special thanks to Alicia for sharing her inspiring story with me for this week’s episode. Until next time!

16 Jul 2024253 Survival. Your past doesn’t equal your future with Tracey Woodward00:49:17

Our lives are a journey, and like every journey, where you start out and where you end up is what makes life so interesting. 

 

My guest on this episode is Tracey Woodward, who, like many people, didn't have the easiest start in life. However, unlike many people, she didn't let her past define her future. 

 

Tracey shares her life story, starting with being born prematurely to a teenage mother in the 1960s to her struggle with illiteracy and surviving in an environment marked by crime and neglect. 

 

Despite these challenges, Tracey's perseverance and determination saw her rise to senior positions in renowned beauty companies such as Aveda, Urban Retreat, and Donna Karan. 

 

Tracey's story is a story of resilience and the power of transformation.

 

It's a story of grit, street smarts, personal reinvention and a living example of "Your past does not equal your future." 

 

So, on today's podcast, we discuss:

 

●      The importance of looking like you belong.

●      Why you shouldn't be afraid of asking for help …and…

●      Not being afraid of getting it wrong.  

 

And lots more!


 

In this Episode:

 

01:24 Introducing Tracey Woodward
03:24 Tracy's early life and struggles 
09:12 Stories of survival and street smarts
16:19 Learning to read and write
22:25 Choosing a different path in life
27:37 Discovering support and an introduction to the beauty world
37:52 Career milestones and mentorship
41:37 Overcoming challenges and achieving success
45:30 Reflecting on personal growth

 

 

Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated! They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast. 

I also love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast! Just click here to review, scroll to the bottom, tap “Ratings and Reviews” tap to rate with 5 stars and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favourite part of the podcast is. Thank you for your support!

Until next time!
 

Antony

Links and Resources:

 

Grow My Salon Business 


Website | Facebook | Instagram

 

Tracey Woodward 

 

Instagram |

22 Oct 2019017 From Small City to Big Sales: Jyl Craven's Path to $600,00000:51:28

I love it anytime I meet someone successful, and especially so, ‘when they are successful hairdressers’. I travel a lot and I meet many hairdressers who complain about the industry, the millennials, gen Z, the competition, Amazon and whatever else they can use as an excuse to blame and justify their lack of success. But then occasionally you meet someone who defies all the reasons as to why you can’t do something and they get on and do it anyway… and that is my guest today.   Her name is Jyl Craven from Jyl Craven Hair Design in Canton Georgia. Jyl is on track to achieve personal sales this year of 600,000 US dollars which many salons with half a dozen staff never achieve and what makes it all the more remarkable is that Canton is a small city with a population of 30,000.   In today's podcast we discuss:   

  • What it takes to be a productive hairdresser
  • How she achieves a personal retail result of around $3000 per week
  • How to pay your team
  • What motivates people today
  • Why developing culture takes time but is worth the wait

And loads more. There is a lot of wisdom here, so get a pen and paper and a cup of coffee it’s note-taking time…

12 Dec 2023222 The Changing World of Online Hairdressing Education with Johnny Othona00:58:16

The last few years have seen a change in how hairdressers and salon owners access and present education.

 

Online learning platforms have become a well established option to complement live education and have the dual benefit of providing quality learning opportunities for people across the globe and expanding the skill sets of hairdressers themselves.

 

Over the past few months, I’ve interviewed several industry educators who have embraced the online space and today I’m going to be speaking with another; Johnny Othona, the co-founder of Ena, Allilon, and Allilon Plus.

 

In today’s podcast, we will discuss:

 

 -       The philosophies that underpin everything Johnny does as an educator

 -       The concept of suitability and whether you can “teach feeling”

 -       How online education is evolving…

 

And lots more!

 

 

For full show notes, links and resources mentioned visit: https://growmysalonbusiness.com/podcast/222/

 

Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated!  

They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast. I also love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast!  

Just click here to review, scroll to the bottom, tap “Ratings and Reviews” tap to rate with 5 stars and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favourite part of the podcast is. Thank you for your support! 

And finally, don’t forget to subscribe to the show to get automatic updates. 

Got a question you want answered on the podcast? DM me your question over on Instagram or just come on over to connect at: https://www.instagram.com/growmysalonbusiness/

15 Jun 2021094 Lessons in Kindness: Winn Claybaugh's Impact on Hairdressing00:50:33

I like to say that all my guests have something special that they bring to the podcast. 

Most of them are hairdressers, or started out as hairdressers and then maybe have gone off in another direction. 

But sometimes there are people in our industry that have made a huge impact and contribution to hairdressing even though they have never stood behind the chair with a column of clients. 

My guest today is one such person, his name is Winn Claybaugh and he has made and continues to make an extraordinary contribution to the hairdressing industry.

Amongst many other things is a proud father, motivational speaker, podcaster, author or the book ‘Be Nice or Else’ and the Dean and Co-Founder of Paul Mitchell Schools. 

In today’s podcast we discuss:

  • What leadership is…
  • Who is responsible for motivation
  • The importance of consciously creating a culture …and we even briefly touch on ‘Gilligan's Island’ 

In this episode:

  • [0:01:34] An introduction to today’s guest, Winn Claybaugh, and the focus of today’s show.
  • [0:03:50] Winn’s childhood celebrity crush.
  • [0:04:42] The love Winn has for his job, and the beauty industry in general.
  • [0:06:10] How Winn ended up in the salon business, and what his first experience of owning a salon was like.
  • [0:07:55] Growth that Paul Mitchell has experienced over the years, and the impetus behind Winn’s co-founding of them.
  • [0:09:26] The culture of continuous learning that Winn believes is so important.
  • [0:10:36] Desperation that motivated Winn to seek out mentors, and how the conversations he had with them led him to become a motivational speaker himself.
  • [0:13:18] Conversation, and how our society has degraded this art form.
  • [0:15:24] Why Winn’s chose Vidal Sassoon as the first guest on his podcast, and the valuable lessons he learned from him.
  • [0:17:00] The dangers of ego.
  • [0:17:43] Winn shares some of his favourite guests that he has interviewed.
  • [0:19:25] A memorable moment from one of Winn’s podcast episodes, relating to mental health.
  • [0:20:30] Stigma that surrounds mental illness.
  • [0:21:56] Drug addiction issues that have impacts Winn’s life, and his first experience of sharing that information publicly.
  • [0:25:00] Work that Winn has to constantly do in order to stay clean.
  • [0:26:40] How being a dad has profoundly changed Winn’s life for the better.
  • [0:28:18] Winn’s disciplined morning routine.
  • [0:29:22] The type of leader that Winn is.
  • [0:30:20] Magic Johnson’s opinion on motivating a team.
  • [0:32:52] Examples of small things that, if done consistently, will lead to a successful salon and a happy life.
  • [0:35:20] How Winn maintains the positivity that he projects into the world.
  • [0:37:20] The importance of deciding what type of culture you want to create before it creates itself.
  • [0:38:10] Three human needs which Winn has built his businesses on safety, belonging, and purpose.
  • [0:40:50] How defining your purpose will help your salon stand out.
  • [0:42:45] Why Winn is optimistic about this generation and excited about the changes that they are bringing about.
  • [0:45:40] Connections and education that Winn would like to see more of in the future.
  • [0:48:00] If you put in the work and love the industry, you’ll reap the rewards.

 

Links and Resources:

 

Grow My Salon Business

Club House @antonywhitaker 

 

Winn Claybaugh

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | LinkedIn | Book | Podcast

 

 

 

 

27 Aug 2024259 Longevity and Evolution in the Hair Industry with Ruth Roche00:47:33

 When you’ve been in this industry a long time, you not only see trends and businesses come and go, but you also see people come and go.

 

But, longevity as a hairdresser and remaining relevant throughout your career is not only a skill in itself, but if you can remain passionate and keep evolving with the times, the result is that you build up a range of skills that leave you with a fantastic legacy to pass on to the generations that follow.

 

My guest today is one such person; Ruth Roche has had many roles in the industry, and over a 40 year career, she has done all of them well and continues to inspire hairdressers at every stage of their career.

 

In today’s episode, we discuss:

  • Using humour to break down barriers and create engagement as an educator
  • The value in working across different areas in the industry
  • Defining beauty and suitability

And lots more!

 

IN THIS EPISODE :

 

01:11 Introducing Ruth Roche: A diverse and passionate career in Hairdressing

02:34 The role of humour in hairdressing

06:21 Mastering communication skills as a hairdresser and presenter

09:52 Discussing Ruth’s diverse career paths in hairdressing

17:31 Defining beauty and suitability

25:23 Reflecting on 40 years in hairdressing

25:49 Opening a salon: The challenges and triumphs

29:09 Transitioning to business ownership

36:50 The Importance of versatility in hairdressing

37:24 Global perspectives on the hair industry

42:02 Embracing short haircuts and overcoming fears

45:17 Where to connect with Ruth Roche

 

Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated! 
 

They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast. 

I also love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast! Just click here to review, scroll to the bottom, tap “Ratings and Reviews” tap to rate with 5 stars and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favourite part of the podcast is. Thank you for your support!

Until next time!
 

Antony

 

Links and Resources:

 

Grow My Salon Business 

Website | Facebook | Instagram

 

Ruth Roche

Instagram | YouTube |  Facebook

The Golden Goat Podcast 

 

 

 

 

 

22 Jun 2021095 What Impact will the Amazon Salon have on the Hairdressing Business?01:05:38

At the beginning of May, Amazon opened their first-ever salon. It certainly made a big noise in all the Clubhouse rooms, social media platforms, and news outlets across the world.

Much of the commentary was based on assumptions of what the motives of Amazon were and how it would impact every area of the salon industry from product development, to new distribution channels, data collection as well as the use of augmented reality and virtual reality …and whether it would impact negatively or positively on the hairdressing industry and the salon revenue model.

Today's guest on the podcast is Elena Lavagni, owner of Neville Hair and Beauty, an independent salon based in London, and Elena and her hand-picked team provide the hairdressing services in the Amazon Salon.

Listen to the podcast and hear from Elena her perspective on how the Amazon Salon can change hairdressing for the positive.

In today’s podcast we will discuss:

  • What makes the Amazon salon different
  • How they are using technology in the salon, and...
  • How today's consumer could benefit from the technology that is changing how we do business… 

and lots more!

 

In This Episode:

[0:47] – Welcome to the show, Elena!

[1:35] – Elena gives a little bit of background information on who she is.

[3:03] – Elena reveals whether or not the publicity surrounding Amazon Salon surprised her.

[5:22] – Elena gives her opinion of Amazon Salon.

[8:50] – People haven’t purchased as many products since the COVID-19 pandemic broke out.

[10:30] – How did the Amazon Salon come about for Elena?

[13:18] – Elena discusses the importance of providing clients with their individual needs.

[15:56] – Elena reveals that Neville Hair and Beauty salon targets a very different audience than Amazon Salon does.

[16:54] – Elena explains why Amazon wanted to open a salon.

[18:37] – What about what Amazon Salon offers is new and innovative?

[20:39] – Elena predicts whether or not Amazon will open more salons.

[22:48] – Elena discusses who pays the employees of the salon.

[24:50] – Selling products should not always be about money but should be about the service that you provide clients.

[26:41] – Does Amazon plan to have its own product line eventually?

[29:36] – Amazon Salon is open to the public, not just Amazon employees!

[31:25] – It makes sense for some hairdressers to pair up with Amazon for distribution.

[32:58] – Elena talks about the value of the data that Amazon collects.

[35:32] – Elena shares whether or not technology negatively impacts the relationship between hairdressers and clients.

[37:36] – Going to work is like going outside to play for Elena.

[39:22] – Elena enthuses over the point-and-learn feature of Amazon Salon.

[40:50] – What has Elena learned from Amazon Salon that she will integrate into Neville?

[43:33] – Coming out of the pandemic, we have learned that health is the new beauty.

[45:20] – Elena reveals what kind of POS (point of sale) system that they use at Amazon Salon.

[48:25] – Is Amazon interested in the data around the productivity and revenue of stylists?

[49:36] – A lot of smaller brands are partnering with Amazon, especially in the United States.

[52:45] – Antony and Elena discuss Amazon's just walk out technology.

[55:16] – Elena reflects on any further unexpected benefits that have come out of Amazon Salon.

[56:36] – Elena explains what she was looking for when she hired her team.

[59:15] – It's going to be interesting to witness what kind of impacts Amazon Salon has on the industry!

[1:00:36] – Elena offers some closing remarks regarding Amazon Salon and how it should be embraced.

[1:02:10] – Where can listeners find Elena and/or the Amazon Salon online?

[1:04:59] – Thank you for being on the show, Elena!

 

Links and Resources

Grow My Salon Business

Clubhouse @antonywhitaker

Elena Lavagni

Neville Hair and Beauty

Amazon Salon’s Instagram Page | Elena’s Instagram Page

 

13 Dec 2022171 Using Your Skill with Scissors and Comb to Give Back in Another Way with Stewart Roberts00:53:19

A hairdressing career can take you to many places and enable you to meet many people from all walks of life. 

Many of us are drawn into the industry because of the fashion and creative aspects that a hairdressing career presents. 

But, there are some who use their skill with scissors and comb to give back to society in another way. My guest today is one such person. 

Stewart Roberts is the founder of Haircuts 4 Homeless, a registered charity in the UK and Ireland that has grown into an army of over 600 volunteers working through 80 outlets. To date, they have given over 50,000 haircuts to the homeless.

As Stewart says, “It’s not a job; it’s a calling.”

Stewart was awarded an MBE [Member of the British Empire] from Princess Anne in recognition of his work with the homeless, and personally, I can't think of anyone more deserving. 

If you want to learn more about what Stewart does and how you can support him, visit haircuts4Homeless.com.

 

In this Episode:

[03:01] Stewart shares why losing his salon was a blessing in disguise. 

[06:40] The personal journey that inspired Stewart to found Haircuts 4 Homeless and how the concept has evolved over time.   

[11:39] Stewart shares the final straw that drove him to get help for his alcohol and drug addiction. 

[16:49] How hairdressing has the power to break down barriers.

[20:19] The mindset shift that is required when cutting the hair of homeless people.

[23:21] Stories of people who have had their lives transformed through Haircuts 4 Homeless.

[28:50] How the National Lottery changed the trajectory of Stewart’s life.

[32:18] A look behind the scenes of the running of Haircuts 4 Homeless.

[35:42] The process of creating the coffee table book, Hear Me, See Me. 

[38:09] Examples of the stories you will hear on Stewart’s podcast, “Hear Me, See Me”. 

[41:10] Stewart explains how his podcast came into being (and the episode that has had the biggest impact on him).

[49:28] Stewart's biggest strength, what motivates him, and the biggest lesson he has learned in his life. 

 

Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated!  

They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast. 

I also love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast! Just click here to review, scroll to the bottom, tap “Ratings and Reviews,” tap to rate with 5 stars, and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favourite part of the podcast is. Thank you for your support! 

Special thanks to Stewart for sharing his insights with me for this week’s episode. Until next time! 

Antony

 

Links and Resources:

Grow My Salon Business 

Website | Facebook | Instagram | TikTok

 

Haircuts 4 Homeless

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

 

Hear Me, See Me

Podcast | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook

 

Stewart Roberts

Instagram |  LinkedIn | Twitter | Facebook |  Episode with Brother Kevin

 

Capuchin Day Centre for Homeless People

 Website

30 Jul 2019012 Beyond Likes and Follows: Natalie Anne's Guide to Social Platform Success00:59:07

On today's Podcast, I am talking with a young lady by the name of Natalie Anne who is amongst other things is an Australian social media superstar! Her business is growing exponentially and includes ‘being a digital creator, a salon owner, her own hair products, online education, seminar work and I get the feeling she is just getting started.

On this podcast amongst other things we discuss

  • Whether or not you should outsource your social media
  • Whether you should have a ‘social media policy’ to protect your business when team members leave
  • The value in looking after ‘social influencers’
  • And the pro’s and cons of some of the social platforms

And that's just the beginning…

17 May 2022141 A Business Masterclass with Van Council01:32:14

There are many qualities to take into consideration if you are going to refer to a salon business as being one of the very 'best in the world’ and we would each have our own criteria to consider.  

When it comes to great leadership, a fantastic culture, excellent training, a real career path, great team retention, and consistently having 20% plus in retail and having a very profitable business, there are two salons that really stand out to me.

The first one is JUUT Salons, whose owner, David Wagner, I interviewed on a previous episode. If you haven’t checked it out yet, go back and have a listen. 

The second is Van Michael Salon, and today I’m going to be speaking to Van Council, the founder and co-owner of this incredible business which sets the bar at a level that very few salons can come close to! 

In today’s podcast we will discuss:

  • Adapting your business model to the times
  • The importance of standards, training, systems and exceptional service
  • Lessons in leadership… 

And lots more!

In this Episode:

[04:36] What drew Van to hairdressing, and an overview of his +45 year career in the salon industry (and his experience working in construction).

[13:01] Valuable lessons that Van learnt during the time he spent living in London.

[16:37] Van explains what motivated him to open his own business, Van Michael Salon. 

[20:44] Growth that Van Michael Salon has experienced over the years. 

[25:05] What Van wishes he had known when he co-founded Van Michael Salon.

[27:08] Key elements which have resulted in the very successful expansion of Van Michael Salon. 

[34:48] Examples of the effort that Van puts in to make his salons stand out.

[36:36] Unique features of the Van Michael Salon call centre.

[41:24] Skills that Van drew on when he was working behind the chair, which he is now teaching to his staff. 

[43:31] Van’s thoughts on why Atlanta has a particularly strong salon based business culture in comparison to other areas.

[45:59] How Van branched his business out into Japan, and lessons from there that he has brought back to his American based salons. 

[51:49] Changes that Van is working into his business model.

[59:54] An overview of the two-year training program that Van takes new employees through, and the philosophy that he instils in them during this time.

[1:10:32] The level system at Van Michael Salon.

[1:13:48] Metrics that Van aims to maintain in his salons (and goals that he has for the future).

[1:20:15] Van’s approach to creating a healthy company culture, his biggest strength as a leader, and advice for hiring employees. 

Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated! They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast. 

I also love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast! Just click here to review, scroll to the bottom, tap “Ratings and Reviews” tap to rate with 5 stars and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favourite part of the podcast is. Thank you for your support!

Special thanks to Van for sharing their insights with me for this week’s episode. Until next time!

Antony

Links and Resources:

Grow My Salon Business 

Website | Facebook | Instagram

Van Michael Salon

Website | Instagram | Twitter | Facebook

Van Michael Studio

Instagram

Van Council

Instagram

24 May 2022142 What Salon Owners Can Learn from Global Culture Ambassadors00:53:10

Today, the need to highlight environmental and social initiatives is more pertinent than ever. Unfortunately, those causes and everything they represent are often drowned out by the latest headline of the day. 

However, the increased level of social and environmental awareness and urgency isn’t about to go away. In fact, these issues are only becoming more and more pressing. So, we all need to ‘own’ our contribution and stop waiting for someone else to fix our problems.   

My guest on today's Podcast is Mara Gourdine, the Global Culture Ambassador at John Paul Mitchell Systems. Behind that impressive title, Mara is very much involved in the corporate side of directing and contributing to making change happen.

In my conversation with Mara today my objective is to keep coming back to how salon owners and stylists can adapt what a big business does and integrate those ideas into their own businesses.

In today’s podcast we will discuss:

  • What Mara’s day-to-day job consists of
  • The wider responsibilities of businesses today
  • The importance of greater diversity and inclusivity in every business
  • How salons can include the wider community in more local environmental and social initiatives…

And lots more!

In this Episode:

[03:22] What it means to be a Global Culture Ambassador.

[05:56] Mara shares the story of how she became the Global Culture Ambassador at John Paul Mitchell Systems, and what this role entails. 

[14:48] The link between a company’s internal culture and its external impact. 

[17:26] A Walk on Water; what this organization does and how John Paul Mitchell Systems became involved with them. 

[25:05] Mara’s racial lineage, and the influence that this has had on her life.  

[26:23] The global movement that was sparked by the death of George Floyd, and how John Paul Mitchell Systems responded to it. 

[32:11] A valuable lesson that Mara learned from her mom about equity and inclusion.   

[33:08] Perspectives to be gained from listening to the stories of people who are different from you.

[34:22] The importance of imagery and education when it comes to enhancing the inclusivity of your salon. 

[38:22] Mara’s approach to onboarding employees at John Paul Mitchell Systems, and how it differs from her own experience of joining the company.  

[43:55] Encouragement from Mara to share your joys and passions with others and to look after your mental and physical health. 

[47:47] The key to building a compassionate company culture, and examples of how John Paul Mitchell Studios has done this.

[50:26] Why Mara doesn’t use social media.

Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated! 

Special thanks to Mara for sharing her insights with me for this week’s episode. Until next time!

Antony

Links and Resources:

Grow My Salon Business 

Website | Facebook | Instagram

Mara Gourdine

LinkedIn

Angus Mitchell

Instagram

John Paul Mitchell Systems

Website | Instagram | Twitter | Facebook | YouTube | Pinterest

Paul Mitchell Schools

Website

21 Mar 2023184 Meet Kerry Warn: A True Hairdressing Master.01:05:59

When Nicole Kidman describes you as the best hairdresser in the world, it is safe to say you’ve mastered your craft!

Kerry Warn is the man behind the iconic hairstyles seen in movies like Eyes Wide Shut, The Stepford Wives, The Great Gatsby, Bewitched, Mrs America, Grace of Monaco, and Bladerunner…(to name a few)

 

And you would have seen his work on the world's biggest fashion catwalks… 

 

And on the cover of leading fashion magazines …

 

Today's podcast is an interview that was done in 2015, but Kerry is still very much active today. What stood out most when talking to him eight years ago was his humility, his charm, and his insights into fashion and hair and beauty. He has a depth of knowledge that is extremely rare.

 

Kerry's journey is one of commitment, dedication, and passion that I know you will be inspired by, so tune in to hear what it takes to become a true hairdressing master!

 

For full show notes, links and resources mentioned visit: https://growmysalonbusiness.com/podcast/184

 

Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated!  

They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast. I also love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast!  

Just click here to review, scroll to the bottom, tap “Ratings and Reviews” tap to rate with 5 stars and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favourite part of the podcast is. Thank you for your support! 

And finally, don’t forget to subscribe to the show to get automatic updates. 

Got a question you want answered on the podcast? DM me your question over on Instagram or just come on over to connect at: https://www.instagram.com/growmysalonbusiness/

02 Apr 2024238 Building a Sellable Salon Business with Zach Dogar 00:37:59

Why is it that 80% of businesses that go to market never get an offer, meaning those business owners have to close the doors on all their hard work and walk away. 


If you’re a salon owner, the day will come when you are going to relinquish control of your business. 


This episode focuses on how you can increase your chances of being able to sell your business when that day comes rather than being forced to shut it down.


My guest is Zach Dogar, a business broker and exit strategy specialist in the hair and beauty industry. 


In today’s podcast, we will discuss:


  • Points for consideration when establishing the value of a salon business
  • The biggest mistakes buyers and sellers make
  • How to achieve the best sale price for your business


And lots more! 


For full show notes, links and resources mentioned visit: https://growmysalonbusiness.com/podcast/238/ 


Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated! 

They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast. I also love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast! 

Just click here to review, scroll to the bottom, tap “Ratings and Reviews” tap to rate with 5 stars and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favourite part of the podcast is. Thank you for your support!

And finally, don’t forget to subscribe to the show to get automatic updates.

Got a question you want answered on the podcast? DM me your question over on Instagram or just come on over to connect at: https://www.instagram.com/growmysalonbusiness/

27 Sep 2022160 What It Takes To Build A High-End Hair Extension Business with Emilly Hadrill01:00:12

As many of you know, I've been in the salon industry a long time, and I’d like to think that I know a lot about hair and hairdressing. But one of the areas that I haven’t had a lot of exposure to is hair extensions.

Extensions first came onto the hairdressing scene in the ’80s, and since then, they have become a significant part of the industry.

My guest on today's Podcast is Emilly Hadrill. She is the leading provider of premium extensions in Australia and has 4 hair salons across Brisbane, Melbourne, Gold Coast & Sydney, generating 6 million dollars a year in sales!

In today’s podcast, we discuss:

  • How to work with extensions 
  • How Emilly has grown and successfully expanded her business 
  • Why and how you should start integrating extensions into your salon business…

And lots more!

 

In this Episode:

[02:54] Emilly’s early exposure to hairdressing and the personal experience that influenced her to pursue a career in the hair extension industry. 

[07:17] What the hair extension field looked like when Emilly started her business. 

[11:06] How Emilly’s career progressed after she completed the hair extension course. 

[17:18] Exploring the variety of hair extension techniques that exist (and why Emilly uses a combination of tape and weft extension techniques in her own hair).

[20:59] How long hair extensions last (if you look after them!). 

[23:36] A breakdown of the price range of Emilly’s services. 

[29:41] Reasons for the high level of repeat customers in the hair extension business.

[33:13] The power of delegation: one of the biggest lessons that Emilly has learned as a business owner. 

[33:42] What Emilly’s first few years in business looked like. 

[38:34] Emilly explains the motivation behind the countrywide expansion of her business, and the pros and cons that have accompanied it.

[42:10] The keys to successful salon business expansion, according to Emilly.  

[43:33] How Emilly’s business is structured. 

[47:22] Factors that have driven the growth of the hair extension industry worldwide. 

[49:23] Advice for integrating hair extensions into the service offerings at your salon (and why you should!). 

[54:03] What Emilly believes to be her biggest strengths and weaknesses.

[54:58] The importance of maintaining balance; a lesson that Emilly learned the hard way. 

 

Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated! 

They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast. 

I also love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast! Just click here to review, scroll to the bottom, tap “Ratings and Reviews” tap to rate with 5 stars and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favourite part of the podcast is. Thank you for your support! 

Special thanks to Emilly for sharing her insights with me for this week’s episode. Until next time! 

Antony

 

Links and Resources:

Grow My Salon Business 

Website | Facebook | Instagram

 

Emilly Hadrill Hair Extensions

Website |  Instagram |  Facebook |  Pinterest |  YouTube

24 Sep 2024262 Empowering the Next Generation of Stylists with Martha Lynn Kale00:44:18

I often say that opening a business gives you a great education. Not just into the skills needed in management, finance, and marketing. 

But also the understanding and insights that come with the responsibility of employing people, training them and coaching them to become the best version possible of themselves. 


On today's episode, I’m talking with returning guest salon owner and now author Martha Lynn Kale of the Mirror Mirror salon in Austin, Texas, who has written a book about getting the most out of the early years of your career.


In today’s podcast, we discuss:

- Martha Lynn’s book “The Ambitious Stylist” Making the Most of Cosmetology School.
- Why hand in hand with freedom, flexibility and autonomy comes personal responsibility, accountability and owning the outcome.
- Advice on building a clientele and developing your own personal brand.

And lots more!


IN THIS EPISODE:


(01:17) Introducing Martha Lynn Kale

(02:30) Martha Lynn's journey and book inspiration

(02:56) Martha Lynn’s Beauty School experience

(08:40) Key messages from 'The Ambitious Stylist'

(15:00) Talking about building a clientele and personal branding

(15:53) Discussing Interview tips and professionalism

(30:35) The role of mentorship and apprenticeships within the industry

(34:36) Best advice for Beauty School students

(38:24) Discussing the future of Beauty Schools

(42:56) Where to connect and find the book 


Want MORE to help you GROW?


📚 Check out our Bestselling GROW Books

https://growmysalonbusiness.com/books/


🆘Management overwhelm!? Download our free checklist! This checklist will help you get clarity on where you're at https://growmysalonbusiness.com/management-checklist/


🙏Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated! 

They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast.

👉 Here's what you do:

- On your phone, Click here

- Scroll down to 'Ratings & Reviews'

- Tap on the empty purple stars and rate 5 stars

- Click on ‘Write a Review’ I love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast! Thank you for your support! 🙏

Until next time!
Antony

RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:


Episode 21: https://growmysalonbusiness.com/podcast/021/

Episode 232: https://growmysalonbusiness.com/podcast/232/

Instagram: The Ambitious Stylist: https://www.instagram.com/theambitiousstylist/ 

 

FOLLOW US!

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/growmysalonbusiness/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/growmysalonbusiness

Website: https://growmysalonbusiness.com/

FOLLOW MARTHA LYNN KALE!

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marthalynnkale/

Website: https://mirrormirroraustin.com/


12 Oct 2021110 Should you switch to charging by the hour? Here's how one salon did it.01:07:46

There is a business trend that I'm seeing more of lately. It was happening anyway, but it has been accelerated by Covid, and social distancing, and people looking for new ways of living and working to avoid burnout. 

The trend that I am talking about is that more salons are looking at 'charging by time' instead of charging for the specific service. 

My guests today on the podcast are two sisters who are also business partners, Vicki and Jane, from the award-winning salon 'Reed hair' in the UK. 

I'm really pleased to have them on the podcast today to get the opportunity to dig in deep about everything to do with charging by the amount of time and not for the specific service. 

Reed hair made that transition a few years back and haven't looked back since, and on this podcast episode, they are totally open about what was involved in making the change. 

 

In today's podcast, we discuss:

  • The reasons behind why they changed
  • What the challenges are (if any) for owners, staff and clients
  • How to work out your hourly rate… and
  • The impact it has on profitability.

And lots more!

 

In this Episode:

[0:01:02] A current trend taking place in the salon industry, which was accelerated by the Covid-19 pandemic. 

[0:05:45] What sparked Vicki and Jane’s decision to change their business model from charging for a specific service to charging by time. 

[0:09:08] The vision that Jane and Vicki had for Reed Hair from the beginning. 

[0:12:06] Impact that the change in business model had on costs and revenue for Reed Hair. 

[0:14:13] Client education and marketing that Jane and Vicki did when they changed their business model. 

[0:15:23] Why the daily volume of clients at Reed Hair dropped when they moved to the charge-by-time model. 

[0:17:12] How Jane and Vicki communicated their business model change to their clients over a period of time. 

[0:19:40] Other changes that took place at Reed Hair alongside the change in business model.

[0:21:47] The biggest challenge that Vicki and Jane faced when they made these major changes to their salon, and how they dealt with it. 

[0:23:12] A formula to work out what a stylist should be charging per hour. 

[0:26:51] The drop in assistants that Reed Hair experienced prior to their big reopening, and the reasoning behind the decision to remove assistants altogether. 

[0:30:31] How Reed Hair’s clients handled the transition to a charge-by-time model. 

[0:33:30] Different price levels of the stylists at Reed Hair. 

[0:34:34] Responses from staff to the changes that were put in place at the salon. 

[0:35:39] Ways that the charge-by-time model benefits stylists and clients. 

[0:37:38] What a typical conversation with a new client at Reed Hair will consist of. 

[0:40:48] How the commission system at Reed Hair works. 

[0:43:15] The answer Reed Hair gives their clients when they aren’t sure how long their session is going to take.  

[0:47:01] How the hourly rate at Reed Hair is broken down. 

[0:48:04] Why women’s sessions are usually booked for longer than men’s.

[0:50:41] Transparency that Reed Hair practices with their clients. 

[0:54:52] How Reed Hair’s hourly rate accounts for the cost of products.  

[0:58:21] The lack of hierarchy and a price ceiling at Reed Hair. 

[01:00:30] Criteria that determine the hourly rate that stylists at Reed Hair can charge. 

[01:01:26] Factors that resulted in an increase in Reed Hair’s profitability when they changed their business model. 

[01:02:02] Vicki and Jane’s commitment to looking after their staff.

[01:03:12] Key steps to making a success of the charge-for-time business model. 

 

Links and Resources:

Grow My Salon Business

Website | Facebook | Instagram

Reed Hair

Website | Facebook | Instagram

Episode 098 - Toby Dicker and Amanda Faith - Charging by the service or charging for time?

28 Nov 2023220 Rules to Live By: “Go Quick, Fail Often, and Learn Fast” with Antony Whitaker00:08:16

Talking, thinking, and weighing up the pros and cons are all important, but ultimately success comes from taking action, from implementing!

 

Of course, preparation is important, but the longer you spend trying to perfect something before taking action on it, the less time you have to learn invaluable lessons that can only come about when your vision has been turned into reality. 

 

Or, in the words of Elon Musk, “Go quick, fail often, and learn fast.”

 

Failure is an inevitable part of life, but as I discuss in this episode, if you reframe your failures into learning opportunities, there is no limit to the success you can achieve! 

 

For full show notes, links and resources mentioned visit: https://growmysalonbusiness.com/podcast/220/ 

 

Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated!  

They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast. I also love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast!  

Just click here to review, scroll to the bottom, tap “Ratings and Reviews” tap to rate with 5 stars and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favourite part of the podcast is. Thank you for your support! 

And finally, don’t forget to subscribe to the show to get automatic updates. 

Got a question you want answered on the podcast? DM me your question over on Instagram or just come on over to connect at: https://www.instagram.com/growmysalonbusiness/

13 Jun 2023196 The A.I. Revolution in the Salon Industry with Gordon Miller00:45:32

This year will be remembered for many things, including as being the time when Artificial Intelligence (A.I.) exploded into the mainstream of society.  

  

A.I. has been with us for a number of years in a supporting role through things like social media algorithms, dating apps, Siri, Alexa, Google Maps, and Netflix. 

  

But it’s ChatGPT that has really got everyone talking, and people are experiencing excitement and terror in equal measures about what this really means for humanity…  

  

My guest on today's podcast is my good friend Gordon Miller, and today we are going to have a conversation about the impact that ChatGPT is having (and is likely going to have in the future) on the hairdressing industry and beyond. 

  

In today’s podcast, we will discuss: 

  

  • How AI can be used in the hairdressing industry 
  • Who or what might it make redundant 
  • How to dip a toe in the water if you haven’t already…  

  

And lots more! 

  

For full show notes, links and resources mentioned visit: https://growmysalonbusiness.com/podcast/196/  

  

Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated! [Text Wrapping Break] 

They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast. I also love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast! [Text Wrapping Break] 

Just click here to review, scroll to the bottom, tap “Ratings and Reviews” tap to rate with 5 stars and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favourite part of the podcast is. Thank you for your support![Text Wrapping Break] 

And finally, don’t forget to subscribe to the show to get automatic updates.[Text Wrapping Break] 

Got a question you want answered on the podcast? DM me your question over on Instagram or just come on over to connect at: https://www.instagram.com/growmysalonbusiness/ 

21 Jun 2022146 Don’t be afraid to reinvent your business with Lisa Carr at BHD Salon00:58:08

Good ideas can, and do, come from anywhere. 

An easy trap to fall into is thinking that it’s only big salons with big budgets and celebrity owners that set the trends when it comes to new business-building ideas. But that’s simply not the case. 

My guest today is a salon owner who is living proof that no matter how small your town is, you can do big things!

Lisa Carr is the innovative and passionate owner of the Bad Hair Day (BHD) salon in Tecumseh, a town in Michigan in the United States with a population of 8,500!

In today’s podcast we discuss:

  • How the BHD salon has grown 37% since Covid 
  • How Lisa has introduced greater flexibility for her team into her business model
  • Her innovative approach to marketing and not being afraid to reinvent the way business is done.

And lots more!

In This Episode:

[4:04] Why the changes that came about because of the Covid-19 pandemic were a blessing in disguise for Lisa’s salon business, Bad Hair Day (BHD).

[8:52] Factors that Lisa attributes to the fact that her business grew by 37% in 2020.

[13:16] The pivotal point that Lisa reached after her first 8 years as a salon owner.

[17:34] Lisa explains the process she went through to systematize and grow her salon after she decided she was no longer going to work behind the chair.

[22:33] Why Lisa opted for three salon directors rather than one salon manager.

[24:02] How Lisa’s decision to stop working behind the chair affected the profitability of her salon.

[26:49] The staff compliment at BHD, and the ideal number of money-producing staff members Lisa would like to have.

[29:43] Words of wisdom from Lisa: You don’t have to be in debt to have a great business (and how she has managed to achieve this).

[30:40] The valuable lesson Lisa learned when she took up position behind the chair again for a brief period.

[32:06] Lisa explains the philosophy she lives by: Earn the Right (and the other two elements which she sees as essential to running a successful business).

[34:50] Changes that Lisa incorporated into her salon after conducting an anonymous staff survey.

[38:25] Examples of the personal development training that Lisa does with her staff.

[43:25] Where Lisa’s drive to continuously reinvent her business comes from, and the advantages of having a salon business in a small town like Tecumseh.

[46:58] Lisa’s approach to advertising.

[52:07] The percentage of total revenue at BDH that comes from retail, the award that they won recently, and Lisa’s approach to motivating her team to sell retail products.

Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated! 

They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast. 

I also love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast! Just click here to review, scroll to the bottom, tap “Ratings and Reviews” tap to rate with 5 stars and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favourite part of the podcast is. Thank you for your support!

Special thanks to Lisa for sharing her insights with me for this week’s episode. Until next time!Antony

Links and Resources:

Grow My Salon Business 

Website | Facebook | Instagram

Bad Hair Day Salon

Website | Instagram 

Lisa Carr

LinkedIn | Instagram

02 May 2023190 Salon Team-building and Recruitment in 2023 with Stefanie Fox01:06:47

A universal challenge experienced by salon owners is recruiting and retaining talented team members. And because hiring great people is the most effective way to drive revenue, this is a challenge that deserves attention. 

 

My guest on today's podcast is Stefanie Fox, hair colourist, MBA graduate, and the founder of Talent Match, a team-building agency focused specifically on helping beauty industry businesses recruit and retain talent! Her debut on the show is one of our most downloaded episodes, and today she is back in the hot seat to share more of her wisdom. 

 

In today’s podcast, we will discuss:

 

  • Trends that have taken place in the salon industry in recent years
  • What has been happening in the world of recruitment in this post-pandemic world 
  • What salon owners everywhere need to be doing to attract, inspire and motivate today’s workforce

 

And lots more! 

 

For full show notes, links and resources mentioned visit: https://growmysalonbusiness.com/podcast/190/ 

 

Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated!  

They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast. I also love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast!  

Just click here to review, scroll to the bottom, tap “Ratings and Reviews” tap to rate with 5 stars and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favourite part of the podcast is. Thank you for your support! 

And finally, don’t forget to subscribe to the show to get automatic updates. 

Got a question you want answered on the podcast? DM me your question over on Instagram or just come on over to connect at: https://www.instagram.com/growmysalonbusiness/

28 May 2024246 Managing the Costs Around the Colour Bar with Janine Simons00:39:32

Every salon owner I’ve ever met wants to know how to better manage their business expenses so that they can be more profitable. And so they should. 


Ultimately what that all comes down to is looking for ways to increase the income and reduce the outgoings which results in improved profit margins. Both of those topics are covered in depth in our online ‘Money course’. 


But amongst the many potential solutions to help manage costs and increase profit is to use a ‘Colour Management System’ which will help reduce waste and improve consistency. 


My guest on today’s episode is Janine Simons, another entrepreneurial salon owner who is also the founder of Colour Bar Manager.


In today’s podcast we will discuss:

  • The day Janine woke up and decided the world needed a new colour management app.
  • How the colour bar manager works.
  • What it does differently to its competition.

And lots more!


For full show notes, links and resources mentioned visit: https://growmysalonbusiness.com/podcast/246/ 


Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated!

They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast. I also love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast!

Just click here to review, scroll to the bottom, tap “Ratings and Reviews” tap to rate with 5 stars and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favourite part of the podcast is. Thank you for your support!

And finally, don’t forget to subscribe to the show to get automatic updates.

Got a question you want answered on the podcast? DM me your question over on Instagram or just come on over to connect at: https://www.instagram.com/growmysalonbusiness/

19 Nov 2019019 Consultations can Make or Break your Salon with Vivienne Mackinder00:58:11

Welcome to this episode of Grow My Salon Business with host Antony Whitaker. Antony’s guest today is Vivienne Mackinder, she is a hairdresser, educator, innovator and industry leader. She talks to us about training, leadership, awards, and succeeding as a woman in business.

Vivienne says she is still a student and still learning after all of these years, and she finds it delicious. Her most prominent teacher right now is her website, HairDesignerTV. It is regularly teaching her something new from things like communication skills, telling stories, and how to be more efficient. 

Vivienne started the website to share the knowledge of hairdressers from different places. It’s a training platform with over 900 videos on cutting, dressing hair, color, leadership, and motivational videos. She had the vision years before it was technically possible, but that didn’t stop her from planning and waiting for the right time. Vivienne says that timing is everything in business, and if you are too far ahead, it is as dangerous as being too far behind.

Listen in as Vivienne and Antony discuss salons, the lack of client consultations and the reason they are so important. They talk about the fact that you are a leader when you are behind your chair and the need for your clients to trust that you understand what they want. The confidence to customize a cut to fit your client’s bone structure and angles, the knowledge to get the color just right, and how these are some of the things you can learn from HairDesignTV plus so much more.

You won’t want to miss this fantastic conversation with a hugely successful businesswoman but more than that, an exceptional person. She gives us insight into her thoughts and shares her knowledge about hair design, running a business, leadership, and life choices. Grab a pen and paper, sit back, put your feet up, and get ready to be schooled on how to be the best at what you do.

 

In This Episode:

[01:35] Welcome to the show, Vivienne!

[02:04] Vivienne talks about where she is in her career today.

[04:31] Confidence comes from knowledge, so at the beginning and don’t be afraid to be the dumbest one in the room.

[06:12] When was the inception of hairdesignertv? What was the inspiration to start it?

[10:17] They speak about the website, what it includes, and how to it.

[12:50] She tells us a story about going to a high-end salon in London and being surprised that there was no consultation.

[18:39] Vivienne talks about the course she built around the consultation and how it has increased the stylist business.

[21:29] To be a person of influence behind your chair means that you are a leader because you are leading someone. Don’t abuse it; listen to your clients.

[24:10] Do you know how to interpret what a client wants, to make it work for their face and their hair texture?

[26:13] Vivienne speaks about being confident about customizing hair cuts, knowing angles, and cutting to bone structure.

[28:30] Doing hair cuts can be a money issue because customizing a cut can take more time than doing a basic generic cut.

[30:33] Hairdesigntv can be used as a training tool to get stylists up to the level you need them to be for your salon.

[31:32] Vivienne tells us about what she saw on a YouTube video where someone was cutting a fringe, they used seven techniques, but why?

[34:57] Are awards as relevant today as they were in the last 30 to 40 years?

[38:13] She speaks to us about her documentary called ‘Not Just a Hairdresser.’

[42:31] Have you ever wanted to own a salon? 

[43:55] Vivienne believes that leadership is the most important thing of all, surrounding yourself with people who are extraordinary and lead by example.

[49:44] Being from England, how has living in America changed you as a hairdresser and as a businesswoman?

[51:36] Vivienne’s advice to young women today is, design your lifestyle first then back your career into it. What’s most important to you? Career? Family?

[57:11] Vivienne, thank you so much for sharing all of your beautiful thoughts.

 

Links and Resources

 Grow My Salon Business 

Sadh Guru

Find Vivienne

HairDesignerTV

@viviennemackinger

Instagram | Facebook |  LinkedIn |  YouTube

01 Aug 2023203 Creating and Maintaining a Luxury Salon Brand with Michael Van Clarke01:02:51

 At one end of the salon spectrum, you have budget or value salons. At the other end, you have premium or luxury brands. They all serve a purpose, and they all attract a clientele and a team that represents what the business offers.

  

 In a city like London, the luxury end of the market is very competitive, and brands regularly come and go. But occasionally, you come across a business that stands the test of time. The Michael Van Clarke salon in Marylebone is an example of a luxury salon that, after 35 years in business, is going stronger than ever!

  

 My guest on today's podcast is the founder of this iconic luxury brand, Michael Van Clarke.

  

 In today’s podcast, we will discuss:

  

 -    What it takes to create a luxury brand

 -    The Michael Van Clarke limited liability partnership model

 -    The importance of training your team…

  

 And lots more!

 

For full show notes, links and resources mentioned visit: https://growmysalonbusiness.com/podcast/203/

 

Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated!  

They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast. I also love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast!  

Just click here to review, scroll to the bottom, tap “Ratings and Reviews” tap to rate with 5 stars and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favourite part of the podcast is. Thank you for your support! 

And finally, don’t forget to subscribe to the show to get automatic updates. 

Got a question you want answered on the podcast? DM me your question over on Instagram or just come on over to connect at: https://www.instagram.com/growmysalonbusiness/

05 Nov 2024268 Can One Salon Management Software System Fill All Your Needs?00:51:23

There are many changes impacting the hair and beauty business, and one area that is impacting every industry is the continual advancement and use of tech, particularly the advancement of AI. 


Today's guest is Sudheer Koneru, co-founder of Zenoti Salon Software.


After a background working at Microsoft, Sudheer embraced semi-retirement, and after exploring yoga, meditation and the wellness industry, he became the owner of a small group of spas that incorporated salons, beauty, fitness and yoga. 


Frustrated by the software solutions available at the time, Sudheer decided to develop his own, and Zenoti was the result. 


Today Zenoti operates in over fifty countries in a total of approximately 30,000 businesses in the beauty and wellness industry. 


In today’s podcast, we discuss:
👉 The role of AI in the salon industry today
👉 Predictions of the impact that AI will have in the immediate future
👉 The advantages of having only one piece of software that handles everything from being a point of sale and booking platform to all your marketing, management and business analytics…

And lots more!


IN THIS EPISODE:


[01:08] Introducing Sudheer Koneru and Zenoti

[02:36] Sudheers transition from tech to beauty and wellness

[12:25] The birth of Zenoti from Sudheers personal wellness journey

[23:33] Discussing Zenoti's apps for both stylists and clients

[35:12] AI's impact on the salon industry

[43:32] Future predictions for AI in the salon industry

[50:15] Conclusion and where to find Zenoti

Want MORE to help you GROW?


📚 Check out our Bestselling GROW Books

https://growmysalonbusiness.com/books/


🆘Management overwhelm!? Download our free checklist! This checklist will help you get clarity on where you're at https://growmysalonbusiness.com/management-checklist/


RATINGS + REVIEWS


🙏Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated! 

They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast.

👉 Here's what you do:

- On your phone, Click here (Read steps below first)

- Scroll down to 'Ratings & Reviews' 

- Tap on the empty purple stars and rate 5 stars

- Click on ‘Write a Review’ I love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast! Thank you for your support! 🙏

Until next time!
Antony

RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:


Zenoti

Website | Linkedin | Instagram


 

👉 FOLLOW US!

Instagram | Facebook | Website

21 Jan 2025279 Getting Your Team Engaged and Involved in the Year Ahead.00:10:58

For many salon owners, January is a time of the year when they’re getting the team refocused for the year ahead. 

 

Because traditionally, January is a time of new beginnings. It's when you let go of the year before, set goals and launch new ideas for the salon. 

 

So what’s the best way to get the team re-engaged motivated and excited for the coming year? 

 

Because if goals and ideas are to turn into reality, you need to get the team onside and excited about what the future holds. 

 

And to get the team ‘involved and onside’ means you need to get everyone together…

 

 

IN THIS EPISODE:

 

[01:23] Kicking off the New Year: Get your salon team excited and engaged for a productive new year.

[02:17] Planning and structuring your team meeting/event, including clarifying the event's purpose.

[06:03] Reflecting on the past year to review past successes and challenges.

[08:29] The importance of setting clear, actionable goals and prioritising them effectively.

 

 

Want MORE to help you GROW?

 

📚 Check out our Bestselling GROW Books https://growmysalonbusiness.com/books/

 

🆘Management overwhelm!? Download our free checklist! This checklist will help you get clarity on where you're at https://growmysalonbusiness.com/management-checklist/

 

 

RATINGS + REVIEWS

 

🙏Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated! 

They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast.

👉 Here's what you do:

- On your phone,Click here  (Read steps below first)

- Scroll down to 'Ratings & Reviews'

- Tap on the empty purple stars and rate 5 stars

- Click on ‘Write a Review’ I love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast! Thank you for your support! 🙏

Until next time!
 Antony

 

 

RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

 

Grow Business School Live - 2 Day Event in London 16th & 17th May - Find out more

 

 

👉 FOLLOW US!

Instagram | Facebook | Website

26 Jul 2022151 What does it take to build a successful independent cutting education company? with Ben Brown01:07:12

Over the last 20 years, salon hair fashion has predominantly been focused on colour and styling, whereas the ’60s to the ’90s were the era of the haircut. 

Many young hairdressers today are terrified about the thought of ‘cutting’ unless it's taking the ends off long hair and many salon owners say that they just can’t find stylists who have the technical and creative skills to cut hair well.

My guest on today's Podcast is Ben Brown, who has built a very successful cutting education company and although based in the UK, works in many countries teaching the art and science of what makes a great haircut.

In today’s podcast we discuss:

  • Why opening a salon isn’t for everyone
  • Starting an online education company
  • Teaching technique and suitability

And lots more!

 

For full show notes, links and resources mentioned visit: https://growmysalonbusiness.com/podcast/151/  

 

Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated!  

They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast. I also love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast!  

Just click here to review, scroll to the bottom, tap “Ratings and Reviews” tap to rate with 5 stars and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favourite part of the podcast is. Thank you for your support! 

And finally, don’t forget to subscribe to the show to get automatic updates. Got a question you want answered on the podcast? DM me your question over on Instagram or just come on over to connect at: 

https://www.instagram.com/growmysalonbusiness/  

30 May 2023194 Expect the Unexpected When Opening A Salon with Daniel Di Iorio00:47:56

As Daniel Di Iorio has learned through the process of opening a new salon, life doesn’t always play out exactly the way we expect it to! 

 

In my last conversation with Daniel, which took place in February 2023 (Episode 179), he shared his plans to relocate. In this episode, we do a deep dive into the aspects of the relocation that haven’t gone to plan and the valuable lessons that he has learned throughout the journey! 

 

In the episode, we discuss:

  • The importance of letting go of the things you can’t control
  • Why we should always expect the unexpected
  • The value in always being open to hiring…

And more!

 

For full show notes, links and resources mentioned visit: https://growmysalonbusiness.com/podcast/194/ 


 

Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated!  

They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast. I also love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast!  

Just click here to review, scroll to the bottom, tap “Ratings and Reviews” tap to rate with 5 stars and “Write a Review”, and let me know what your favourite part of the podcast is. Thank you for your support! 

And finally, don’t forget to subscribe to the show to get automatic updates. 

Got a question you want answered on the podcast? DM me your question over on Instagram or just come on over to connect at: https://www.instagram.com/growmysalonbusiness/

14 Apr 2020035 Building your business around your values.01:02:27

The only part of these podcasts that I script is the introduction. Sometimes they are easy to write; other times, you don’t know where to start, and that’s what it is like with my guest today.

I think that the expression “wears his heart on his sleeve” was invented for this man. He is passionate and driven about everything he does. He leads with an open heart, a sense of honesty, and generosity, and humility that you don’t often come across.

I have known him for the best part of thirty years through good times and bad, and I always enjoy talking with him.

His name is Emiliano Vitale from e’Salon in Sydney, and I spoke with him briefly on an earlier podcast where we discussed the Coronavirus, but today I really want to get him to talk about his business and the journey he’s had and the lessons he’s learned along the way.

I know you will enjoy his passion and enthusiasm for life, but there is also an awful lot of hard-earned business experience to benefit from as well.

In today’s podcast, we will discuss:

  • The importance of building your business around your values.
  • Managing salon finances.
  • The importance of community and…
  • Some of the life lessons he has learned along the way.
  • The ‘thank you’ project.

In This Episode:

[02:40] Welcome to the show, Emiliano!

[03:52] Emiliano shares a little about his background.

[07:47] Emiliano tells us a story about buying flowers for all the businesses in his village.

[11:20] He says what he wanted to happen was to bring a little joy into their lives with the beginning of the Coronavirus in Australia.

[13:06] Emiliano says that the generosity that the people in his village showed was astounding.

[16:05] Antony speaks about values and how important it is for your values to define your culture.

[18:19] Emiliano chats about taking his team away for a weekend to define their values fourteen years ago.

[20:36] He speaks about knowing the values of Emiliano and how that reflects in the salon.

[22:29] Emiliano believes that with salons closed, people need to take this time to reimagine what they want their salons to be.

[25:49] How have your values changed over the years?

[27:20] Emiliano shares how everything shifted with the birth of his first daughter.

[30:03] He speaks about being a workaholic when he was younger, running from the man in the mirror.

[32:36] Emiliano says what is important to him is to know that he could have his salon closed for six months and still pay his staff a full salary and come back stronger.

[36:40] Emiliano shares the lessons he learned from closing a salon with a huge debt.

[38:22] Emiliano says you can only have a plan A and put all of your eggs in that basket.

[42:24] What are a few vital financial lessons that you tell people?

[45:15] Antony shares that salons need a financial buffer of three months, don’t live week to week.

[48:00] Emiliano says that the first 15% gets put away, and he runs his business on 85% of what he brings in.

[50:24] Emiliano speaks about what the ‘thank you’ project is.

[54:06] The attention of the ‘thank you’ project is connection.

[56:23] Emiliano has 140 plus individuals from 32 countries holding up signs that say thank you.

[59:04] If you want to participate, write thank you on a piece of paper and send a picture via Facebook message to Emiliano Vitale.

[1:00:54] If you liked this episode, please share and write a review.

[1:01:39] Thank you so much for being on the podcast today.

 

Links and Resources

 Grow My Salon Business 

Find Emiliano

e’ Salon

Instagram |  Facebook | LinkedIn

09 Mar 2021080 Business Building with Candy Shaw “AKA The Balay Lama”01:05:54

No matter where in the world you live, the last 12 months have been a challenging time to be in business, and the bigger your business, the bigger the overhead and the bigger the responsibility that goes with it. 

 

But, it’s also at times like this, when people and business are stretched to the max, that the years of good business management practices, good financial management and leadership will get you through it.  

 

My guest on today's Podcast is Candy Shaw who along with her family has built a great business that stretches from salon to school and product manufacturer. 

 

Candy wears many hats in this industry, and she has inspired and continues to inspire hairdressers everywhere. 

 

Her salon is ‘The Jamison Shaw salon’ in Atlanta Georgia which was started by her father Jamison Shaw and is now a third-generation business that has not just survived the last 60 years but continued to grow and evolve and pivot throughout the years.

 

In today’s podcast we discuss:

  • Salon productivity levels
  • Running a salon during covid 
  • What it takes to start a product company 
  • Balancing business and family life

And lots more!

 

In This Episode:

[02:35] Welcome to the show, Candy!

[05:27] Candy shares working with her husband and how they balance life and business.

[07:02] What do you do when you aren’t doing hair?

[09:25] Candy discusses growing up in a hairstyling family and being around it all the time.

[11:47] Candy is planning to revamp and amp up her salon’s apprenticeship program.

[13:20] Why is the culture in Georgia different from other areas?

[16:29] Candy shares what is different with their business model today versus last year.

[18:50] Candy speaks about her staff members being paid during the shutdown and how the salon model has handled the pandemic.

[21:06] Why did you go to France to train to be a hairdresser?

[24:38] Candy talks about where she got her Balayage training.

[26:15] Candy discusses her productivity and how she can do 36 clients a day.

[29:12] Because she is now semi-retired, she only does 15 to 18 a day.

[31:09] Candy says that her father was the godfather of the hair industry.

[33:24] What is a good stylist in your salon doing as far as client count?

[36:08] Candy shares where her nickname Balay Lama came from.

[37:39] Candy speaks about how her family has handled COVID.

[38:56] Candy talks about some things they did after reopening, what worked and what didn’t.

[42:10] The Jamison Shaw Salon has gone cashless, which helped greatly during the pandemic.

[44:34] Candy’s first client gave her a $1000 tip to share with her staff after she reopened.

[45:55] Were you able to capitalize on retail during the shutdown?

[49:51] Candy is also a manufacturer, so for them, they have had a leg up because they could ship products out daily.

[51:27] Candy talks about why she manufactured her own products and what the catalyst was.

[54:37] The production started in her garage, and she shipped it from her home.

[57:12] Candy believes that organization is her biggest strength.

[57:38] What drives you?

[59:46] Candy shares what she wishes she was better at.

[1:01:40] Candy gives some advice to young women who want it all, business owners, mother, and wife.

[1:03:56] Candy shares some final thoughts.

[1:04:54] Thank you for being on the show!

 

Links and Resources

 Grow My Salon Business 

 

Candy Shaw

The Jamison Shaw Salon

Sunlight Balayage

YouTube |  Instagram

26 May 2020041 A True Hairdressing Genius – Part Two00:45:35

One reason I like podcasts is that you get the chance to get into people's minds and understand how they think, and to me, that's often where the real magic is!

I love to understand the story behind what makes a person do what they do, how they think, and the thought processes behind it.

This episode is a follow on from last week's episode with 'Guido,' probably the most creatively influential hairdresser in the world today. I don't use the word 'genius' very readily, but when it comes to hair, 'Guido is an absolute genius!'

He is a visionary and a true artist in the fullest sense of the word and has worked with everybody, and I mean 'everybody' of any notoriety in the industry.

His work often pushes at the boundaries of beauty, it's always flawless in its execution, and understandably his influence and the direction he takes have reached far beyond hairdressing as well as having an impact on all of today's great hairdressers the world over.

On today's podcast, we will discuss:

  • Social media and the impact it's had on fashion magazines.
  • What influence might Coronavirus have on fashion?

In This Episode:

[00:54] Guido speaks about social media and how it affects the fashion industry.

[03:44] Has Instagram replaced magazines in any way?

[05:52] Guido discusses what he does well and what he doesn't have the patience for anymore.

[08:20] He shares how his team size differs from show to show.

[11:00] How important are collaborations to what you do and learn?

[13:52] Guido chats about working with Alexander McQueen and how he influenced his work.

[15:43] Do you ever do stuff that fails? What have you left on the cutting room floor?

[19:39] Guido speaks about feeling intimidated when he is rubbing shoulders with the elite in the fashion industry.

[22:54] Guido shares that the greats in any industry are the ones that still have the drive to succeed.

[25:09] Do you speak the truth of beauty? Are you true to yourself?

[27:12] Guido shares the advice that he gives people on his team that aren’t lucky enough to know where they want to be in their career.

[29:51] Guido speaks about how much dedication it takes to be where he is in his career and what he has had to give up.

[32:40] Guido says that he was lazy when he was young, but once he found his calling, he has given it everything.

[34:01] Guido discusses the collaboration he had with Redken for fifteen years.

[35:38] How do you feel the coronavirus pandemic will affect the beauty and fashion industries?

[38:22] Guido says it will be harder in the fashion industry because the very nature of fashion is being around many people.

[40:18] Guido speaks about this pandemic feeling like a dream to him. He couldn't have imagined what has happened.

[44:37] Guido, thank you so much for being on the show!

 

Links and Resources

 Grow My Salon Business 

 

Find Guido

 Guido Palau

@guidopalau

Instagram | Facebook | Twitter

05 Jul 2022148 What Does it Take to Bounce Back from COVID (and Everything Else Life Can Throw at You)?00:39:11

This week is ‘Part 2’ of the ‘Comeback Stories’ series, where I again talk to a salon owner couple about how they’ve bounced back after a tough couple of years. 

With the challenges that the world is going through at the moment, it’s important to be focusing on the success stories and the opportunities that difficult times can sometimes present.

The last two years have been a testing time for most of us, and my guests today are no exception. Their business and their personal lives have had numerous changes thrust upon them that were beyond their control.  

But despite that, they have come out the other end in good shape we can all learn from their resilience, their willpower, their strength, and their courage in the face of adversity. 

Today I am talking to Todd and Audra Wise from the Color Pop salon in Texas.

In today’s episode we will discuss:

  • Their business journey pre and post covid
  • Dealing with significant personal health challenges
  • Finding balance in both personal and business commitments

And lots more!

In this Episode:

[02:32] A brief overview of what Todd and Audra’s career paths have consisted of to date.

[05:08] Audra explains what motivated her to open her own salon and the shock that she and Todd received 8 months later.

[07:18] Why Todd and Audra didn’t receive financial assistance for their salon, Color Pop, when the COVID-19 pandemic hit.

[09:46]  The “lean” approach that Audra and Todd adopted to make it through the pandemic.

[12:48] The mindset and support system that helped Audra deal with her breast cancer diagnosis and treatment.

[19:44] Some of the most important lessons that Audra has learned through the challenges that life has presented her with over the past few years. 

[24:25] The effort that was required on the business side to help Color Pop bounce back.  

[26:22] Changes that Todd and Audra made to their pricing strategy post-COVID.

[27:34] Why Audra and Todd decided not to increase their prices when they reopened after the shutdown.

[28:38] Color Pop’s number one marketing tool. 

[29:38] Some of the innovative marketing initiatives that Todd and Audra have implemented, and how they have helped Color Pop grow. 

[34:04] The philosophy that is foundational to the way Todd lives his life.

[35:59] What Audra sees as her biggest strengths, and the daily practices that help her feel at peace. 

[37:16] Todd and Audra’s plans for the future. 

Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated! 

They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast. 

I also love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast! Just click here to review, scroll to the bottom, tap “Ratings and Reviews” tap to rate with 5 stars and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favourite part of the podcast is. Thank you for your support!

Special thanks to Todd and Audra for sharing their insights with me for this week’s episode. Until next time!

Antony

Links and Resources:

Grow My Salon Business 

Website | Facebook | Instagram

Color Pop Salons

Website | Facebook | Instagram

Todd Wise 

Instagram

 Audra Wise

Instagram

07 Feb 2023178 What is the Ultimate Purpose of Marketing? With Antony Whitaker00:12:11

If you stopped ten hairdressers in the street and asked them what marketing is, you would probably get ten different answers.

 I’m going to guess and say that a big percentage of them would say that marketing is advertising.  

And a big percentage of people these days would talk about marketing as being social media. 

The majority would also probably say that marketing is about getting ‘New Clients’ into the salon, and perhaps that’s where the problem starts. Because although they are not wrong, marketing is about so much more than that.

In today’s podcast, I talk about what the purpose of marketing really is.

 

For full show notes, links and resources mentioned visit: https://growmysalonbusiness.com/podcast/178

 

Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated! 

They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast. I also love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast! 

Just click here to review, scroll to the bottom, tap “Ratings and Reviews” tap to rate with 5 stars and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favourite part of the podcast is. Thank you for your support!

And finally, don’t forget to subscribe to the show to get automatic updates.

Got a question you want answered on the podcast? DM me your question over on Instagram or just come on over to connect at: https://www.instagram.com/growmysalonbusiness/

20 Oct 2020060 With Good Fortune Comes Great Responsibility.01:01:58

One thing about podcasts that I really love is that you get to ask people questions that in a social situation would maybe be a little too intense, whereas on a podcast they recognise that that's the intention.

My guest today is Michaeline DeJoria, not only is Michaeline the daughter of John Paul DeJoria, the co-founder of John Paul Mitchell Systems but amongst other things, she is also Vice Chairman of the company.

I loved having this opportunity to talk with Michaeline and to ask her questions about her life growing up with JP as your dad, the different roles she has had in the company, the values that the company is built on, the importance of the company culture, how she raises her 3 children, the impact of COVID on the business and the responsibilities that come with her position.

We jumped all over the place and she is every bit as charming, and open and down to earth and intelligent as you might imagine her to be.

In This Episode:

[01:41] Welcome to the show, Michaeline!

[02:37] Michaeline shares her background and her job with John Paul Mitchell Systems.

[04:45] She talks about working in every aspect of the company, every department starting in the warehouse.

[06:49] How has working in every aspect of the company affected where you are today?

[08:22] Michaeline discusses having imposter syndrome because she was the boss's kid.

[09:35] Listen as Michaeline shares why she works in the company's beauty division instead of one of the others.

[11:40] Michaeline speaks about the story behind the iconic photo of her with her dad as a child.

[14:27] Was there ever a moment as a child, you realized that your life was different than other kids?

[18:06] Michaeline discusses how she keeps her kids grounded and confident in their abilities.

[21:07] Why has JP never sold the company?

[23:07] Michaeline shares the culture they cultivate in the company and how it is just part of the DNA.

[25:22] Listen as Michaeline shares how the culture evolves over the years with the different generations.

[27:57] "It's finding a way to have the current situation better amplify your principles." 

[31:32] How are you adapting to working from home?

[33:07] Michaeline discusses working with Millennials and GenZ versus working with the older generations.

[36:59] Michaeline shares the company's approach for working through the pandemic.

[39:56] Listen, as Michaeline discusses how JPMS handles the social unrest that is happening now.

[41:18] She speaks about  Black Lives Matter and the opportunities to change some aspects, even though they have always been inclusive.

[43:36] Why is it so important for JPMS to give back to so many organizations?

[46:18] Michaeline shares a story about her dad, helping some strangers in a restaurant.

[48:38] They discuss the movie Good Fortune, a movie about John Paul's life.

[51:22] What are some leadership hurdles you have had to overcome?

[53:04] What is the most important thing you have learned from your dad?

[56:57] Michaeline talks about the trust that JP put his company in to protect his people.

[58:08] Michaeline answers some rapid-fire questions from Antony.

[1:01:09] Thank you so much for being on the show!


Links and Resources

 Grow My Salon Business 

 

Find JPMS

John Paul Mitchell Systems

 

Find Michaeline

 Michaeline DeJoria

 

Watch the trailer to Good Fortune the inspiring life story of John Paul DeJoria below

https://youtu.be/vRDmM2lCK1k 

04 May 2021088 The Dynamic Journey of Ted Gibson and Jason Backe01:13:53

Most people I interview on the podcast fit into a specific category, they are either an editorial or celebrity hairstylist, a colourist, a barber, the founder of some new industry technology, or perhaps they have founded a new business model, or are an educator, a product developer, a salon owner, or represent some other industry niche where they have achieved success.

But my guests on today's podcast are Ted Gibson and his husband and partner Jason Backe who have pretty well ticked all those boxes successfully… And Ted also has this other accolade that follows him around of being the most expensive hairdresser…   

In today’s podcast we discuss:

  • The Ted Gibson salon business model.
  • The decision to close the Manhattan salon.
  • The Amazon Salon… and
  • Salon design and the client experience.

And so much more!

 

In This Episode:

[01:44] Welcome to the show, Ted and Jason!

[04:30] Jason shares his background and his journey to where he is now.

[05:51] Ted shares his background and his journey to where he is today.

[07:59] How do you divvy up responsibilities in the businesses you are partners in?

[10:49] Ted talks about being a beauty instructor and who he could work closely with.

[13:57] Ted, when did you transition into editorial work?

[16:36] Jason worked for John English before moving to New York for an opportunity for Ted.

[19:30] Jason was able to get a job in New York working with Aveda and soon became an instructor.

[21:07] Ted discusses the transition from editorial work to becoming a celebrity stylist.

[24:35] Ted speaks about becoming Angelina Jolie's hairdresser.

[29:56] Whose idea was it to open your own salons?

[32:32] Ted discusses why they closed the three salons that they opened in 2016.

[35:18] The changing culture in the beauty industry was a catalyst for them closing their salons.

[38:10] Jason shares when they told their employees they were closing the salon.

[41:48] They talk about what they did after they closed the salon.

[42:41] Jason speaks about their move to L.A. and why they moved.

[45:24] Listen, as they discuss the new salon concept they opened in L.A. called Starring by Ted Gibson.

[47:17] Jason shares about opening the first Amazon salon and the retail they sell online.

[49:13] They don't answer the phone because they want people to book online; they rent chairs and only sell products by Q.R. code.

[53:20] What technology does the new salon have that sets it apart from other salons?

[56:24] They can change the light in the cloud by asking Alexa to do it.

[57:06] Who came up with the design for the salon?

[1:00:15] Ted shares how much he charges for haircuts across the board and why he charges that amount.

[1:01:52] Jason says that Ted wants to give women the Angelina Jolie experience and give them the chance to experience something unique.

[1:05:01] Most of the people who come to Ted are for special occasions.

[1:07:02] Jason shares the new non-profit he and Ted have created called The Worth up Alliance.

[1:10:27] During the pandemic, the beauty industry had very few resources, and it decimated many small businesses.

[01:11:39] Any final words to leave with the listeners?

[01:12:34] Jason shared his first thoughts when he walked into beauty school for the first time.

 

Links and Resources

 Grow My Salon Business 

Find Ted Gibson and Jason Backe

Ted Gibson

The Worth Up Alliance

Starring by Ted Gibson

Ted’s Instagram 

Jason’s Instagram

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