Grow My Salon Business Podcast

With all the uncertainty in the world as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, most salons have been able to reopen, but there is no way to determine if they will still be open in a month or where they will be at the end of the year.When you look at how most people have adapted to the changes, it's impressive, but it hasn't been easy, and it's not over yet.In some countries, states and cities, salons that have just reopened are now being forced to close down again because of a second spike in the coronavirus infection rates. I think the most predictable thing at the moment is that everything is unpredictable.And that's how it is with my guest on today's podcast, Los Angeles salon owner Paula Peralta. Paula is a hairstylist, a brand ambassador, a passionate advocate for social change and an entrepreneur.In today's podcast, we will discuss:The advantages of being a late starter in the beauty industry.The importance of letting your career evolve.The four energies needed to succeed in business.The 'Black Lives Matter' movement and the momentum behind it. In This Episode:[02:39] Welcome to the show![04:03] Paula shares her journey into hairdressing at 29.[06:45] She fixed other people's hair while in high school for parties and enjoyed it.[09:00] Listen as Paula shares the benefits of getting into the industry late starter in the industry.[11:50] Paula speaks about her first few years in the industry as an editorial stylist.[13:05] How did you know it was the right time to open a salon?[16:04] Paula said she didn't fear failure because she'd already failed at her first job.[18:01] Paula discusses closing her salon and where she is going in her career.[21:02] She shares that she just opened a salon suite in Hollywood.[23:06] Paula explains the four energies that you need to succeed in business.[26:36] "When you allow those different energies to show up in your business, that's what allows you to create greater." [28:31] Is most of your focus going to be on the coaching and educational stuff, or are you still going to work behind the chair?[30:13] Paula built her business on Instagram and built her client base in six months.[32:06] How do you think the 'Black Lives Matter' movement has affected change?[35:34] Paula discusses what is happening with the movement now that the pandemic is taking all the air space.[38:17] If you are engaged in the movement, you can see where the conversations are happening.[40:32] Paula shares how racism manifests itself every day.[43:05] Paula speaks about having awareness about what's happening and also being willing to do something about it.[44:21] Paula talks about the difference between racism and antiracism.[46:40] What does the hairdressing industry need to do to be more inclusive?[49:17] What do manufacturers need to do?[51:03] Paula shares what Paul Mitchell is doing to help with inclusion now and in the future.[53:20] Paula speaks about what the average salon owner can do to add diversity in their salons.[55:40] What milestones need to happen to keep this movement going forward?[1:01:09] Paula shares some final thoughts.[1:01:45] Thank you for being on the show! Links and Resources Grow My Salon Business Find PaulaPaula Peralta@hairbypaulaperaltaInstagram@naeemahlafondInstagram

For today's podcast, I wanted to stop and look at the salon business environment that we are currently in and think of how I might best be able to serve my listeners as we are all subject to ever-changing situations.In some parts of the world, salons are reopening for the first time in many weeks, generating cash flow and getting their business moving. In other places, they have been ordered to close again. Even if we went back a month or two there was more predictability about what the future looked like!COVID-19 hasn’t gone away and even though many of us are reopening; it is not over until we have a vaccine, and no one knows how long it will be before that might happen.We are opening in this new world, and having to adapt our businesses and how we treat our clients, how we treat our team and how we treat ourselves and in some cases reassess the very viability of our businesses.In an ever-changing business environment it is easy to feel not in control but having a sense of clarity is essential if you are to move forward and make smart business decisions.I find that doing a simple S.W.O.T. analysis allows you to get better clarity with your thoughts. S.W.O.T. is an acronym for strength, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats.In today's podcast, I guide you through the process of doing a S.W.O.T. analysis of your business. Just by giving things a name and grouping them under each of those headings starts to give you a sense of control and predictability about the next steps and where to focus your attention and decision making. I know that running a business at the moment is not easy; I know that none of us have ever been through something like this before. I know that these are the most challenging times that any of us have ever lived through, but I also know that it will end, and I know that most of you will survive these times and come out the other end stronger and better than you were before.In This Episode:[00:32] Welcome to the show![02:43] Antony discusses how the pandemic has thrown the world into a state of uncertainty.[04:01] Antony speaks about businesses opening into a brave new world.[05:03] Control the controllable.[06:12] Antony says that writing things down helps him get centred.[06:36] Antony speaks about the SWOT analysis and what it stands for.[08:30] Get a few pieces of paper out and write the words, strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats at the top of the paper.[11:19] Is it easy for you to accommodate social distancing in your salon? That would be a strength.[14:23] Having a cash flow buffer is another strength.[16:10] Now write your weaknesses like clients being afraid to come into the salon.[19:01] Is your business a lifestyle business? Does it generate a profit? That would be a weakness.[21:30] Our third piece of paper is titled opportunities, what are some opportunities that will come out of this pandemic?[24:06] Antony speaks about this being an opportunity to reinvent your business model.[27:25] On the fourth page, you need to put your threats like the threat to your health.[30:01] Antony says it’s essential to get your head out of the sand and face the new normal.[33:28] Antony describes the three types of businesses he sees.[36:14] Thank you for listening to the show!Links and Resources Grow My Salon Business

I'm very excited to be interviewing my guest today, Mr. Angus Mitchell. Son of the late Paul Mitchell, who was the co-founder of the Paul Mitchell product range.Angus is not only a very talented hairdresser in his own right, but he's also co-owner of John Paul Mitchell Systems and a proud father of his young son Dylan.In today's podcast, we will discuss:The challenges with living up to the reputation of a famous father.Why Hawaii is a spiritual home for JPMS.The importance of philanthropy and environmental issues.Angus's love for cars.And that's just to start.So it's an absolute pleasure to be able to interview Angus Mitchell for this episode of the Grow My Salon Business podcast...In This Episode:[01:14] Welcome to the show, Angus![01:47] Angus shares memories of his father and why Hawaii is so spiritual to him.[04:33] He speaks about his father having a strict diet and meditating and doing yoga.[05:35] Do you remember your father's first studios in New York?[07:35] Angus speaks about the first sculpting lotion product and how it was the company's first significant success.[10:00] He discusses the hair trends of the 80s and how excited his father was to see the new shorter hairstyles.[11:28] Angus shares a memory of talking with his father.[12:17] Did you have any hair conversations with your father before he passed?[14:35] Angus felt that when his father passed when he was out of high school, he honoured his father's memory by becoming a hairdresser.[17:23] Angus speaks about some great hairdressers he was on stage with and how nervous he was during his first show.[19:51] Did you enjoy doing hair? [20:44] Angus shares his career path as an educator.[22:56] Angus speaks about opening a salon where he hired people straight out of beauty school.[25:42] How did you handle owning a salon while being a co-owner of John Paul Mitchell Systems?[27:55] Angus shares about being environmentally savvy in Hawaii and how his father lived.[32:57] What did you learn from John Paul DeJoria? [35:28] Angus discusses that John Paul's daughter is now running the company and is just as talented in the business.[36:49] Angus speaks about the school side of JPMS and what they are about.[38:56] Angus shares that they are looking for a location for an advanced school for JPMS.[40:05] How many automobiles do you have now?[41:18] "Anyone can buy a car, but not everyone can build them."[44:56] Angus is building his father's dream car in his garage even though he doesn't put on overalls and do the work; it's his vision that they are following.[50:22] Angus, thank you much for being on the show!![50:55] Do you have any final thoughts for the listeners today? Links and Resources Grow My Salon Business Find Angus Angus MitchellGearbox@angusmitchellInstagram | Twitter

I love the expression, “Success leaves clues!”Meaning that you don’t have to reinvent the wheel. Instead, find someone else who has already succeeded at what you want to do and emulate what they did!Learn to think how they think. Copy how hard they work. Put the hours in that they put in. Understand the sacrifices they have made along the way. The rejections and disappointments they have had along the way. And if you do all of that, there is a good chance that you will succeed too!Success in any form doesn’t come easy, but often we see someone who has succeeded and we want to be them. We want their knowledge; we want the respect they have and the lifestyle that goes with it.But what we don’t see are the years of hard work, the learning, and sacrifices that have gone into making them who they are.My guest on today’s show is Lesley Jennison. I have known Lesley since she was 16 and fast forward to today she has become one of the most respected hair colourists and educators in the world.In today’s podcast we will discuss:Training and the importance of discipline and mastering the fundamentals.Pricing of salon services by time.Using social media effectively.In This Episode:[01:54] Lesley, welcome to the show![02:22] Lesley shares her background in the hairdressing industry.[03:42] She speaks about the mentors that have impacted her career.[05:36] Did you always want to specialize in colour?[08:34] Lesley discusses what makes a good colourist.[09:41] What part of the training that you had set you up for the career you have today?[12:28] Lesley shares why learning the fundamentals and having discipline are the building blocks of being a great colourist.[16:24] Taking the time to master the fundamentals can make all the difference.[20:27] What do you think the future of education looks like?[23:14] Lesley speaks about what she wishes she could do better.[26:17] Antony believes that COVID-19 has made it imperative for people to grasp technology and embrace how it can help their businesses.[29:30] How has social media affected your business?[32:14] Lesley shares how much time she spends on social media each day.[33:51] Lesley speaks about the pricing per half hour model for colour she had in her previous salon.[37:38] What do hairstylists need to do to compete with the home hair colour movement that is happening now?[40:20] Lesley discusses how she stays relevant in the industry after all these years.[42:30] Lesley shares how blown away she was when she went to Saudi Arabia and saw how they run their salons.[44:12] After 33 years in the industry, how do you overcome obstacles that stand in your way?[47:13] Lesley shares some final thoughts for the listeners.[47:29] Thank you so much for being on the show!Links and Resources Grow My Salon Business Find Lesley Lesley JennisonBilli Currie Forty Seven Chiltern St@lesliejennisonInstagram | Facebook | Pinterest@thehairhistorianInstagram

Who could possibly have imagined that 2020 would present the world with the challenges that it has?I know that many of the listeners to this podcast will have been reflecting on the social unrest that started with the killing of George Floyd in Minneapolis and the subsequent protests about police brutality and racial inequality that have dominated the global media over the last few weeks all over the world.But, this isn't just an American issue. As the protesters have shown racism exists everywhere and this has dominated the global media over the last few weeks.Maybe instead of thinking about these events as huge problems, we should be looking at them as huge opportunities for change? A chance to reset the agenda and address the inequalities that exist!I know that many of the listeners to this podcast will have been reflecting on the racial inequalities that have long existed in the world. So, like many of you, I have been reflecting on my actions and inactions and asking myself “What can I do better?”I think that when you put yourself in a position that I have where I talk about industry issues you can’t just pick and choose the non-confronting ones, you have to talk about the challenging ones as well.So for today's podcast, I have reached out to Errol Douglas who I have interviewed before in my “Unplugged” audio series. But this is the first time I have had him on this Podcast and it’s certainly overdue.Errol is a very successful hairdresser with a wealth of knowledge and experience so we will also use this opportunity to discuss a range of issues including.Errol's MBE and the different roles he has in the industry.The importance of hairdressing awards.Social media… andRacism, and the ‘Black Lives Matter’ movement and in that regard how the industry needs to evolve.In This Episode:[02:08] Errol, welcome to the show![02:53] Errol shares a little about his background in east London and the diversity of his salon and who he works with.[05:32] Fusion and integration are what Errol stands for in hairdressing.[07:13] What was it like for a young black man to grow up in England in the 60s, 70s, and 80s?[08:33] Errol speaks about how hairdressing is in his DNA.[11:45] Errol says that back in those days, a young black man never walked alone if he didn't want to get beat up.[12:11] At 16, he went into an apprenticeship in east London.[15:08] Errol said he started working with Paul Edmonds and how lucky he was to have him as a mentor.[17:26] The program called 'The Clothes Show' catapulted him and others into the spotlight.[18:17] Errol shares the definition of an MBE, a distinction that he was the youngest person ever to receive.[21:14] He went to Buckingham Palace to receive his.[23:40] Did receiving the MBE impact the growth of your salon?[24:54] Errol speaks about shampooing the queen's hair and blow-drying Princess Diana's hair.[26:12] Errol has been nominated 24 times for the British Hairdressing Awards.[28:11] What keeps you going back when you have never won?[30:28] Errol speaks about his salon and how it runs.[33:07] How much does it cost to get an appointment with Errol Douglas?[37:00] Errol believes that the death of George Floyd is a turning point in racism.[38:55] What are some racist things you experience every day that a white person might take for granted?[42:47] Errol speaks about what he thinks the industry needs to do differently to combat racism.[47:12] 'I didn't know I was black until I went to the United States' is something a person told Errol.[48:26] What does the average hairdresser need to do better?[49:25] What should manufacturers do differently?[51:10] What does the media section of hairdressing need to do better?[52:49] Errol shares what advice he would give a young person who wanted to get into the industry.[54:06] Errol speaks about what he sees in his future.[56:10] Thank you so much for being on the show!Links and Resources Grow My Salon Business Find ErrolErrol Douglas@erroldouglas1Instagram | Twitter

I think that one of the great things about this industry is that there are many different roles that you can grow into. Most people will start off as a salon stylist, and there is absolutely nothing wrong with being a salon stylist for your entire career, as it can be very rewarding both creatively and financially. But being a salon stylist can (if you want it too) also open up other doors for you to step through. Whether that’s becoming an educator or a session stylist or to work in film and theatre or to work in the product side of the industry, there is a lot of opportunity for those with the desire, the ambition and the courage to pursue it. My guest on today’s podcast is Tom Connell, Hair Art Director for Davines. In today’s podcast, we will discuss: The importance of being relevant and connecting with hairdressers no matter where they are on their journey.Creativity and where inspiration comes from...and Believing in yourself In This Episode:[01:30] Tom, welcome to the show![01:50] Tom shares his background and how he got started as a hairstylist.[04:07] Tom speaks about how his parents being hair stylists influenced his career today.[07:40] What was it about going to your first hair show that made such a big impression on him?[11:25] Tom shares his journey from a salon hairstylist to a runway educator influencing other stylists.[13:42] He speaks about why he didn’t want to do session work.[18:12] What is your creative process? What is your inspiration?[21:08] Tom says you keep pushing and pushing until something feels right.[24:34] Tom shares how music influences the designs he is creating.[27:53] What is it about the Trevor Sorbie culture that produces hairstylists like you?[30:23] Tom advises salon owners, stylists, and educators on how to nurture the talent they see in young stylists.[33:38] Do you ever want to own a salon someday?[34:55] Tom shares some conversations he has with his dad about the styles he does.[37:55] Tom chats about self-discipline and how that is important in how he designs.[39:43] Listeners, please like us on Apple Podcasts.[40:45] Tom gives some final thoughts for our listeners.[43:55] Tom, thank you so much for being on the show! Links and Resources Grow My Salon Business Find TomTom Connell@tommconnellInstagram

The majority of hairdressers I meet find their way into this industry for reasons like the social interaction or creativity aspects that a hairdressing career can offer. Most of us don’t initially get into hairdressing with a business focus, and there is nothing wrong with that. The reality is that most of us open salons ill-equipped for the skills of what running a business really involves. We have to learn the language of business and learn fast...and many of us do. We often hear about these successful and profitable businesses, and I have interviewed some of those salon owners on previous podcasts. Still, I am aware that those success stories don’t represent the industry as a whole. Most salons run on minimal profit margins, and as has been laid bare in the coronavirus shutdown, most salons have no savings or cash flow buffer to survive more than a week or two without going into further debt or relying on government intervention. As unsexy as it might sound, a lot of the success of business all comes down to understanding the numbers that go on in business and being able to make the right decisions about your business accordingly. My guest today is Tom Kuhn, accountant, former salon owner, and founder of a US-based business called Qnity. In today’s podcast we will discuss: The importance of visual learning to understand the numbers.What are the key metrics to focus on?What are the lessons for small businesses that we should take away from the current situation? In This Episode:[02:12] Welcome to the show, Tom![02:45] Tom shares his background and the three chapters of his career.[06:11] Tom speaks about some ah-ha moments over the years and why visual thinking is so essential in the beauty industry.[08:19] Antony chats about how numbers made little sense to him until he saw things in a graph format.[11:00] Tom shares about being President and COO of a salon group.[12:18] Tom discusses when he learned the importance of visual communication and design, which was the content for Qnity.[14:58] He describes a simple chart he used to talk to the salon group leaders when he couldn’t get their attention with numbers.[16:17] What was the catalyst that made you launch Qnity?[17:47] Qnity’s mission statement is to help people prosper.[20:18] Tom shares some golden rules that he thinks salon owners all over the world should follow.[23:02] Do you have financial literacy?[24:38] Tom describes key things that the small business community should implement moving forward from the coronavirus.[28:26] What is a realistic profit margin that a well-run salon should be able to achieve?[30:08] Tom speaks about the data he received from his 2 to 10 project.[33:15] Antony believes that salons should be able to make a 10% profit.[34:27] Tom shares what he finds is a good number for labor costs.[37:17] Do you believe that to have a high-profit margin, you must have strong retail sales?[38:55] Tom discusses the five top metrics that salons should look at daily and monthly.[41:20] The top things to look at for profitability.[42:51] How do I find out my revenue per square foot?[45:28] Tom speaks about what he tells salon owners they need to be doing when they get reopened.[47:45] Tom wants to help 10,000 small businesses level up their financials to help them survive.[49:26] Tom, thank you so much for being on the show today! Links and Resources Grow My Salon Business Find TomTom Kuhn@qnityincInstagram | Facebook | YouTube@qnity-incLinkedIn

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@guidopalauInstagram | Facebook | Twitter

There are very few people anywhere, let alone hairdressers, that are known by ‘one name.’ But if you are in this industry, you will almost definitely have heard of the name ‘GUIDO’... And if by some remote chance you haven’t heard the name, you would have definitely seen his work. I don’t use the word ‘genius’ very readily, but when it comes to hair, ‘Guido is an absolute genius!’ I first met Guido in the early eighties, we both worked at Vidal Sassoon in London, and I remember him as being someone who stood out. There was always something special about him, and [aside from a great personality], it just wasn’t obvious exactly what that ‘something special’ was. He certainly wasn’t arrogant, but he had an opinion, and he wasn’t intimidated by anyone. He always seemed ‘confident in who he was’ and he was forging his own path… He has since become an absolute visionary and a true artist in the fullest sense of the word and has worked with everybody. I mean ‘everybody’ of any notoriety in the fashion business. 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. But he has also impacted all of today’s great hairdressers the world over. 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 actual magic is… I love to understand the story behind what makes a person do what they do...How they think about it. And the more you do that, the more inspiring, but unfortunately sometimes the less obtainable it is...because you can’t always teach it. In today’s podcast, we will discuss:Guido’s journey to the topThe importance of collaborationsWhat drives his creativitySocial media and the impact it’s had on fashion magazinesWhat influence the coronavirus might have on fashion In This Episode:[02:56] Guido, it’s great to have you on the show![03:51] Guido speaks about working at Vidal Sassoon back in the eighties and being fired.[06:42] The structure he learned and the people he worked with at Vidal Sassoon have stayed with him all along his journey.[10:00] What attracted you to hairdressing?[11:32] Guido speaks about what he did after leaving Sassoon and how he got into editorial work.[15:21] Guido shares how he learned on the job; he never apprenticed with anyone.[17:01] He discusses the subcultures that were happening during the eighties and how he would study them and their styles.[20:47] Were you disciplined enough to go home and practice what you saw?[22:23] Guido shares some hairstyles he has done for fashion shows.[25:45] Guido speaks about when it all changed for him working with David Sims.[27:52] David Sims guided Guido to look at what was around him and the styles he could see on the streets.[31:12] Was there a time when you were working with David that you felt like you had credibility?[36:04] Guido discusses being true to himself and adapting as he was working to the top as a hairdresser.[37:38] What is your definition of beauty? Is it style?[40:32] Guido says he likes to dress hair, so it is subversive and makes you wonder.[41:52] Guido shares that he doesn’t have a favorite period in time; the inspiration is everywhere.[43:24] What is exciting about being a hairdresser is that with hands and a vision, you can create so many amazing things on somebody.[45:21] Part 2 with Guido will be out on May 26th, don’t miss it.Links and Resources Grow My Salon Business Find Guido Guido Palau@guidopalauInstagram | Facebook | Twitter

We live in a world where, to varying degrees, everyone is connected by technology. I heard a statement recently that was "Every business is now a technology business!" and I believe that statement to be true.The hub of technology in the salon industry is the salon website and social media platforms, and all things reach out from that.So, having an effective website and marketing strategy that incorporates social media is essential if you want to be in business today.When I had salons, my frustration was finding a website designer who didn't just make something look good but also made it work from a technology, and most of all marketing point of view, because they are 3 very different skills.My guest on today's Podcast is Phil Evans Founder of Salon Guru, a website design and digital marketing company with a global client base.In today's episode, we will discuss:Website designDigital MarketingSEOAnd lots more!In This Episode:[01:37] Welcome to the show, Phil![02:07] Phil shares his background, what Salon Guru is all about.[04:44] What are the biggest mistakes you see with salon websites?[08:01] Salon websites are a tool and should be all about the functionality.[09:37] Phil shares his five top functions; a salon website must have to bring in customers.[11:07] Phil believes that SEO is the most important thing you need to be seen.[13:48] Why do salons need a website? Why can't they use social media?[16:24] Phil says that if you are a salon of one, a website is necessary if you want to grow.[18:17] How important is it to have an online booking function on their website?[21:40] Phil speaks about how he works with salons and how they decide what they want on their website.[23:03] Phil shares that they do not use templates for websites because the content is different for each one.[25:23] When you build a website, is it possible for the salon owner to make changes?[29:07] Phil discusses online stores for salons and whether they make money for the salon.[31:24] Phil speaks about how he has advised salons to keep in communication with their clients on their websites.[33:46] How often do you suggest salon websites be updated?[36:01] Phil shares what he thinks websites will look like in five years.[38:35] Phil speaks about social media integration on the websites.[40:44] Do you have a favourite site that you have designed?[42:49] Phil discusses the most effective campaign he has ever done.[46:10] Thank you so much for being on the show today.Links and Resources Grow My Salon Business Find Phil Phil Evans@salonguruFacebook @philip-evansLinkedIn

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@fourteenjayInstagram | Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest@redchocFacebook | Twitter

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 BlackTina BlackLinkedIn | Facebook | Twitter Liz Salcedo and Henry MonrealSalon Ink@saloninkInstagram | Twitter | Facebook

Some of us have been on lockdown now for 4-5 weeks, and many of us have no date for when we will be able to reopen. Whereas other countries or states either didn’t have a compulsory close order from the government or if they did close, they are now getting ready to reopen.Regardless of what your current situation is I believe that it’s essential that you plan for the day that you do reopen because if you are going to get through this and come out the other end stronger and even better prepared, then you need to make sure you adopt a positive mindset and look for the new opportunities for when we do reopen.Obviously, It’s important that you also understand your legal obligations in the event that there are changes that you have to make and rules that you have to follow. But aside from that, it’s important that we look at the opportunities to re-invent our redefine, the client salon experience, and the team experience.On today’s podcast, I have chosen to interview two leaders in the industry to see how they are dealing with the situation as it stands.First up is Clive Allwright from the ‘Our Place Salon’ in Sydney.Second is Heath Lavingdale from the ‘FEEL Soho Salon’ in London.I’m asking both of them questions about how they are dealing with the recovery phase as they start to plan for opening day and what the new norm will look like in their respective salons and countries.In This Episode:[01:56] Welcome to the show, Clive![02:48] Clive discusses that some salons closed and others stayed open and how that affected the salons in Australia.[04:42] Clive shares what impact it has had on his salon.[07:31] Antony chats that only 60 people total have died from COVID-19 in Australia.[08:35] Has the government put any laws in place for salons as they open back up?[09:45] Clive speaks about how he has restructured their business and the packs they are going to be giving each customer.[11:45] Are the changes you are making just for now or for the long term?[13:59] Clive shares whether they are going to change their pricing to accommodate the cost of the packets and what their government is doing to help salons.[16:03] He chats about leaving 30 mins between clients to do deep sanitizing cleaning of the stations.[18:15] How are you taking care of your staff? Are they getting any subsidies from the government?[21:01] Clive discusses the practical changes they are making to keep their staff and clients safe, like not serving beverages, and no kids allowed in the salon.[23:42] Are you going to do any training with your staff about what the new norm for the salon is?[26:00] Clive shares that his team has been involved with every aspect of the changes and brought their ideas.[27:40] Clive chats about the main reason they closed the salon.[30:24] The situation in Sydney differs significantly from the situation in rural areas.[31:23] Clive, thank you so much for sharing your ideas.[32:30] Welcome to the show, Heath![34:37] Has London brought in any legal guidelines or laws that you must adhere to?[37:28] Heath speaks about the changes his salon will put into place to keep his team and clients safe.[41:44] Heath discusses taking this time to sit back and see what the clients want and make any late-night changes the new normal.[43:11] What are some obvious things the clients will notice in the salon when it reopens.[45:42] Is there anything you are going to differ when it comes to combs and brushes and other styling tools.[47:02] Heath speaks about what is going to happen with the reception desk to keep people from congregating.[48:51] Are you going to bring your team in and talk to them about the new standard before you open?[51:21] Heath shares how they will handle team members that don’t feel safe coming back to work.[52:24] Are you going to have masks available for staff and clients?[55:18] Heath believes there needs to be clear guidelines when it comes to sick clients.[56:25] Heath, thank you so much for sharing your wisdom with us today.[56:52] Please share this podcast on your social media so we can get some positive information out there. Links and Resources Grow My Salon Business Find Clive AllwrightOur Place Salon@cliveallwrightInstagram | Facebook Heath LavingdaleFEEL Soho Salon@heath-lavingdaleLinkedIn | Facebook

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 Emilianoe’ SalonInstagram | Facebook | LinkedIn

What does it really take to have a celebrity client base?My guest on today's Podcast is Nicola Clarke who is a salon partner and the creative colour director at John Frieda salons in London as well as being a major celebrity colourist.Nicola's success is not only due to her talent as a colourist but her personal qualities of grit, determination and persistence which are lessons that we all need to take on board as we work through the coming weeks.For many hairdressers, the opportunity to work 1-1 with some of the worlds top models, musicians, actors and celebrities is their dream job and definition of success. But obviously, it’s a definition of success that only a few can achieve and even less can maintain.It takes more than just technical and creative skills. You also have to be a certain type of person to be able to deal with celebrity clients, because it can be demanding, unpredictable and stressful to the extreme… But the upside is also pretty cool as well!Nicola has a client list that includes the likes of Kate Moss, Madonna, Kate Winslet, Cate Blanchette, Carey Mulligan, Margot Robbie, Sienna Miller, Leonardo Dicaprio, Jake Gyllenhall, Brad Pitt, Claudia Schiffer, Tilda Swinton, Gwyneth Paltrow, Dua Lipa… I am sure you are getting the idea.Quite simply Nicola is the colourist behind some of the worlds most photographed faces as well as being called upon to create characters in the world of film.Nicola runs the gauntlet from film locations and magazine shoots to red carpet but is always back to the salon, which she describes as ‘the best part’ of the job.So if you are expecting some prima donna princess, you will be disappointed because Nicola is one of the most down to earth, loyal and normal people that you will ever meet and I suggest that that is one of her secret weapons!​In This Episode:[02:36] Nicola, welcome to the show![03:21] Nicola shares how she got into the business when she was thirteen.[04:35] When did you start working full time in a salon situation?[07:52] Nicola speaks about being interested in session hairdressing and wanting to be a part of that world.[10:12] She chats about working at a place called Hyper Salon.[12:35] Nicola shares that she took her holiday’s during fashion week with the hope that she could assist Sam McKnight.[14:35] Were you working in the salon as a colorist or an all-around hairdresser?[17:09] Nicola speaks about the transition from working at a salon to becoming a session stylist and colorist for celebrities.[19:31] She chats about an article in Vogue about her being Sam’s assistant.[20:27] Nicola shares being asked to fix Gwyneth Paltrow’s hair on set.[22:50] Antony believes that part of Nicola’s success is because she is not intimidated by anyone.[25:35] Nicola sees celebrities as regular clients, not as someone famous.[26:52] Have you had any push back from stars wanting something done that you weren’t comfortable doing?[29:06] Nicola says she loves doing red carpet work the most.[31:48] She shares a story about getting on a helicopter with Madonna.[33:55] Nicola speaks about working in John Frieda’s salon in London, where she has a salon named the Nicola Clarke Salon.[36:40] Opening the salon was one of the scariest things she has ever done.[38:50] Do you personally manage the salon? Do you still stand behind the chair?[42:00] Nicola shares about what she wished she had known before she opened the business.[45:21] Are awards and competitions vital to you as a salon owner?[48:43] Nicola gives young stylists advice about having a career as enjoyable as hers.[51:23] Don’t listen to anyone who says you can’t do it.[52:51] Thank you so much, Nicola, for sharing your story! Links and Resources Grow My Salon Business Find NicolaNicola Clarke at John Frieda@nicolaclarkecolourInstagram | Pinterest

The beginning of the new normal!I think that we all agree that the last couple of weeks have been like an out of control rollercoaster ride, or perhaps like a being in a tumble dryer on full speed.There has been a lot of uncertainty, and we are all living in a state of constant change literally by the day, and in some cases by the hour …In times like this, we need leadership, and we need a sense of calm as we try and work through this.It affects pretty much the population of the entire planet and salon owners and hairdressers, in general, are as vulnerable and as exposed as anybody is… And I don’t just mean our own physical health but the health of our businesses…In today's podcast, I am interviewing salon owners Robert and Mary Cromeans and Sue Arens. All of whom are successful salon owners to see how they are dealing with the current situation and to start looking at what the future will be like, and how we can prepare for when we come out the other end of this…In This Episode:[01:31] Robert and Mary, thank you so much for being on the show.[02:02] They discuss having to close their salon on March 17th and not knowing when they can reopen.[02:48] How are you communicating with your team, and how are they handling it?[05:11] Robert and Mary share how they are meeting with their team on Zoom.[06:59] Mary believes that her team worries about their paychecks more than anything, and since the laws changed in CA, they are employees and can get unemployment.[08:58] What kind of strategy do you have in place to communicate with your clients?[11:58] Robert shares that they will have a grand opening party when they reopen and have a fresh start.[14:19] They discuss the loans the government is offering and how you have to pay it back, so be careful.[17:59] What is your take on the take-home kits that are being offered through the big-name distributors?[21:02] Robert shares his insight into his clients getting a box color at the supermarket, but he believes they can’t get the same results as they can in the salon.[24:10] Robert speaks about getting the listeners to start calling their clients and get them excited about what can be done once this is all over.[27:08] Robert shares that Mary is going to grow her roots out and put it on Instagram and show people the creative ways they can camouflage it, just have fun with it.[30:22] What can salons do to get creative and to make changes that will help their business now and when this is over?[33:02] Mary shares how she stays positive during this crazy time.[33:53] Robert chats about hanging out with visionaries to stay positive because they are always looking forward.[35:50] Robert and Mary, thank you so much for being on this episode.[36:13] Welcome to the show, Sue![36:43] What is the current situation in your salon group?[37:24] Sue shares how her team took the news that they were closing down.[39:23] Sue speaks about keeping the lines of communication open with her team.[41:42] What do you find is your team’s daily worries, and how are you dealing with them?[46:04] Sue shares how they are staying in communication with their clients and preparing them for when the salon reopens.[47:52] Sue chats about the online store they implemented until the government shut them down.[49:33] What do you think the long-term impact will be on salons in general?[51:40] Sue shares what they are going to do once the salon reopens and how the opportunities are evolving.[53:43] Sue gives some advice to salon owners and hairdressers listening to the podcast.[56:28] What are you doing as a leader to stay positive?[57:51] Sue, thank you so much for being on the show today!Robert Cromeans Salon Facebook | InstagramSue ArensStudio B SalonFacebook | Instagram

Handling COVID-19 with Sean, Virginia, and EmilianoAs salon owners, it is a challenging moment for many, and inevitably with the uncertainty comes fear and panic is near to the surface. So if we are going to get through this and come out the other end more robust and even better prepared, then we need to make sure we adopt a positive mindset not buy into the fear and the panic.Unfortunately, many small businesses survive on daily cash flow, and they have no fallback position as a buffer for difficult times like this. If salons remain closed for weeks, it will be an insurmountable problem for many of them. Governments are reacting in different ways with grants and loans to ensure that businesses do survive.Managing your money and finances will be the Achilles heel for many salon owners. But equally, getting control of the financial situation and hopefully being able to take advantage of the various government-backed initiatives will see you through the next few weeks or maybe even months.Your marketing and communication with your team members and clients are more important now than ever; this is a scary time that we are living through. It’s time to get proactive and reassess our businesses; now is the time to be a leader and a role model.On today’s podcast, I’ve chosen to interview three leaders in the industry to see how they are dealing with the situation as it stands. First off is Sean Dawson, CEO of the Adam Reed Salon, in London. Virginia Meyer, Co-Founder, and partner in the Fourteen Jay Salon in New York and Emiliano Vitale, owner of the e’ Salon in Sydney, Australia.In This Episode:[00:31] Hey everyone and welcome to today’s podcast.[00:39] Antony addresses the current coronavirus situation and how it is affecting salon owners and their teams.[03:42] Antony shares five points on his list of ten that he believes needs to be our focus.[05:34] He shares the last five points on the list of ten points.[06:55] Antony names his three guests and their salons and their countries of residence.[07:35] Sean, welcome to the show![08:34] Is your salon still open, or have you been forced to close?[09:15] Sean shares what they are doing in his salon to keep his clients and employees safe.[11:45] What safety precautions are you taking with your staff to make sure they don’t bring the virus into the salon?[13:32] Sean chats about the ways they are letting their clients know that they are open for business.[18:32] Sean and Adam check with their staff every night to make sure they are all right and getting the correct information.[21:21] What marketing plans are you putting in place so that when we get through this, the salon will be stronger than before?[24:11] Sean shares how he is leading his team, staying positive, and advice he has for other salons.[28:35] Sean says to make sure you are ready to work from home in case your salon does get shut down.[30:02] Thank you very much, Sean, for joining us on the podcast![30:24] Welcome to the show, Virginia![31:17] Is your salon open, or have you closed it?[34:43] Virginia shares why they closed the salon and how they broke the news to their employees.[36:41] She speaks about how they are taking care of their team and the resources available to them.[38:59] How are you communicating with your team and keeping them informed?[41:31] Virginia shares how they are keeping in touch with their clients.[45:58] Virginia speaks about what she is doing to stay positive and how she is leading in this challenging time.[48:38] She chats about being involved in some leadership forums.[51:39] What one piece of advice would you give salon owners today?[52:01] Thank you very much, Virginia, for being a guest on the show.[52:37] Welcome to the show, Emiliano![53:35] What is your strategy right now in your salon, and how are you keeping your staff and clients safe?[56:24] Emiliano shares how they are staying in communication with their clients.[58:36] He speaks about taking the magazines and food away and going to single-use cups for water.[1:00:45] Emiliano chats about what his staff is scared of and how he reassures them.[1:06:36] Have you thought about what you are going to do with your time if you end up closed down?[1:09:32] Emiliano shares advice to salon owners on how to offset the financial issues that could happen in the future.[1:12:54] Thank you so much, Emiliano, for contributing to this podcast.[1:13:20] Antony shares final thoughts.Links and Resources Grow My Salon BusinessSean Dawson Adam Reed SalonInstagram | FacebookVirginia MeyerFourteen Jay SalonEmiliano Vitalee’ SalonInstagram | Facebook

There is a big change afoot, and none of us can afford to ignore it. It is being driven by generational changes, different values, and new way of thinking and working. But most importantly, it is being driven by a sense of urgency about taking better care of our planet and the people in it. Buzz words and phrases like, “Socially and environmentally responsible. Sustainable ingredients. Environmental performance. Balancing purpose and profit. And creating inclusive economies”. Are no longer just the language of a few, they are becoming the language of many. My guest on today's Podcast is Fallene Wells owner of the “Let em have it” Salon which is situated in Denver Colorado and is one of only three B Corp salons in the world. In today’s podcast we will discuss: What is a B Corp Business?‘Sustainability’ and hairdressing salons.The impact that all of this has on salon business. From the salon culture and business model to the impact that it has on the local community and beyond.

I have the pleasure of working with many salon owners all over the world. As a result, I am very fortunate to have inspiring and insightful conversations about the changes that are happening in the salon industry. But, perhaps, more importantly, I get an insight into how forward-thinking salon owners are evolving their business approach to accommodate the never-ending changes to succeed in the salon business today. Today’s guest on the podcast is Ben Jay co-owner of ‘The Hair Loft’ salons, a successful family business in Chicago that started in 1980 and continues to evolve with the times. In today’s podcast, amongst many other things, we will discuss: What are some of the changes that are impacting the traditional salon business model?The never-ending impact of new technologies.The increase in specialty salons.How the big product brand is evolving and what that means for the salon business. In This Episode:[01:31] Welcome to the show, Ben![01:56] Ben shares his background and how he ended up in the salon business.[02:57] How many salons do you have now? How many employees do you have?[04:04] Ben speaks about some of the challenges he faces in his salon today.[06:05] Ben shares his business model and his insight on the new models he sees today.[08:52] Ben believes that the employee-based model dominates in Chicago, but the salon suites model is popping up everywhere.[11:07] With the technology, lifestyle, and business model, it’s almost like the perfect storm for the increase of salon suites.[13:08] How do you keep stylists in your salon and prevent them from leaving to work for themselves?[15:00] Ben gives examples of how he makes his stylists feel like they are getting a more significant share of the commission than they are by adding value.[17:43] Giving his employees by giving them continuing education, scheduling help, and other things to support them daily.[18:35] What do you do at The Hair Loft that bonds people to your brand and keeps them with you long term?[20:07] How do you factor flexibility in schedules into your business model?[23:43] Ben believes that you have to scale hairdressers’ pay so that they can make a good living and break the belief that they can make more on their own.[26:34] Have you ever leased a suite and then wished you had stayed with your salon?[27:47] Ben speaks about the advantages of having a team behind you.[28:55] Ben chats about two new stylists he just brought in and their individuality.[31:56] Ben gives examples of different types of specialty salons.[33:21] Is your salon a full-service salon? Do you have a blow-dry menu?[35:11] Ben describes the color room in his salon and who works there.[38:55] Ben shares about professional product brands and their attempts to cut out the distributors.[44:24] What do you do as a salon owner to protect the retail side of your business?[47:00] Ben speaks about the salons online retail store that allows their clients to purchase products and have them delivered or shipped.[49:08] Antony recommends that everyone go to www.thehairloftltd.com and look at their website.[50:04] Ben shares about the unique products they have in their retail store that are made by local Chicago residents.[54:56] Ben speaks about getting their alcohol and liquor license so they can sell wine and beer in their salons.[56:15] How do you promote beverages? Do you have a menu?[57:25] Ben shares about the app they have in their salon.[58:50] Do you have any final words or thoughts for the listeners?[59:46] If you are listening to this podcast and have enjoyed it, please take a screenshot on your phone and share it on your Instagram stories.[1:00:06] Ben, thank you so much for being a guest on the podcast!Links and Resources Grow My Salon Business Find Ben Benjamin Jay@bnjmnjyInstagramThe Hair Loft@thehairloftltdInstagram | Facebook | Twitter

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 ConsultationsSustainabilitySocial 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 CarusoSalon [email protected]@colincarusoInstagram @colin-carusoLinkedInJohn Paul Mitchell Systems Youtube

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 GoffDare to Lead by Brene Brown How to Talk So Kids Will Listen and Listen So Kids Will Talk by Adele Faber Find MariaMaria Unali@maria_unaliInstagram | Twitter Salon Kiin@salonkiin Instagram | Facebook | Pinterest

I’m sure that like me, you get inspired by people for lots of different reasons. Sometimes it might be because of what they have achieved. Other times it may be the journey they have had to get there, or maybe how they’ve handled adversity and overcome challenges.Or maybe you get inspired by how they think. How they think about people, how they think about life, and how they think about hairdressing.My guest on today’s podcast is Traci Sakosits, North American Creative Director of the Sassoon Salons and Academies. Traci has a passion and curiosity about people and the craft of hairdressing. She is someone who inspires me, not only by what she does with hair but with how ‘she thinks’ about hair and hairdressing and her commitment to the craft.So, on today’s podcast, amongst other things we are going to talk about:How people and businesses evolve.What do you need to do to lead a team effectively?What young people expect today, and how do you lead and motivate them.How you balance life as a leader, teacher, mom, and wife, etc.In This Episode:[01:47] Welcome to the show, Traci![02:43] Traci, can you give us an overview of your life and who inspired you to become a hairdresser?[04:12] Traci discusses her early years in the business, her love of cutting hair, and why she went to Sassoon.[07:07] She speaks about interviewing with Sassoon in New York City and getting a position in the salon as a hairdresser.[09:15] Traci chats about her two years of apprenticeship she did with Sassoon.[10:03] Antony speaks about his journey with Sassoon and the company itself.[11:41] Traci believes that Sassoon not only shows you the techniques to succeed; they also give hairdressers a strong foundation and teach them professionalism.[13:38] Traci shares about an instructor she had that inspired her to teach others.[17:09] They chat about how long Sassoon has been around and the changes they have had to embrace.[18:12] How has Sassoon changed today, and what does the future hold?[21:21] Traci speaks about the Sassoon business model and how the salon suites shift has affected them.[24:22] Traci shares that Sassoon has become much more flexible with the hours the hairdressers work.[26:11] They chat about the different generations and how styles Traci has seen over her years in the business.[27:45] What are the attributes of a strong leader? What should you look for in a potential leader?[29:46] Traci describes what cosmetology is for the listeners that are not in the United States.[31:38] Traci shares what she believes Sassoon means to young hairdressers today.[34:20] Traci believes that all hairdressers should be able to handle whatever requests come in the door. [37:24] Do you think that there are a lot of preconceived notions surrounding Sassoon?[39:57] Traci discusses how Sassoon had evolved around the changing technology and social media.[42:09] Do you have any guidelines for your team when it comes to Instagram and other social media platforms?[45:15] Traci says they do not have an online tool at this time, but they are working on one called Sassoon Online.[48:11] What advice would you give a young twenty-something that is looking to hone their craft?[49:51] Traci shares the ways she reinvents herself and how she changes her mindset to be more flexible.[51:30] How do you balance your time and mindset between your family and work?[55:25] Traci, do you have any final thoughts for our listeners?[57:05] Traci, thank you so much for sharing your time with the listeners. Links and Resources Grow My Salon Business Find Traci Traci Sakosits@tracisak_hairInstagram | Facebook | Pinterest

Over the last few years, there have been many changes in the hairdressing industry. One of those changes has been the continual evolvement of ‘all things hair colour’, and inevitably hand in hand with that has been the rise of the ‘Hair Colourist'! I would never say that colourists were the poor cousin to stylists, but stylists were more likely to be the rockstars of hairdressing. However these days there’s definitely a feeling that ‘Colourists’ have really come into a league of their own. One such person is my guest today, Mr Jack Howard who is definitely one of the very best colourists out there. Jack has built a reputation around balayage and is often acknowledged as someone who is responsible for bringing balayage to the UK after returning from a number of years in the US.Jack works out of the prestigious Paul Edmonds salon in Londons Knightsbridge servicing a high profile clientele as well as spending a lot of time as an educator. Amongst other things in today's podcast we will discuss:What's been driving the changes in the hair colour marketCompeting against the home colour marketPricing of salon servicesThe importance of professional consultationsIn This Episode:[01:46] Welcome to the show, Jack![02:17] Jack shared with us your background and how you got started in the color industry.[03:38] Jack speaks about why he created his color tools line.[06:11] Why did Balayage never take off in the U.K.? Why is it taking root now?[09:00] Antony believes that the economic condition of the Uk is what pushed Balayage because it was less expensive.[11:38] Jack states that the French don’t do foils they do Balayage.[13:39] What do the American colorists do better than anyone else?[14:53] Jack shares why he doesn’t have his own salon, why he prefers to work for someone else.[17:00] What is the drive for stylists being independent contractors? What are the financial benefits and downfalls?[18:56] Jack speaks about what taxes and fees the independent contractors have to pay in the U.K.[20:05] What do you think about the whole salon suites drive that is happening in the U.S. and Australia?[22:36] Jack chats about specialists color salons and what he likes about them.[24:31] What are your thoughts about the salon membership model?[26:49] Jack shares what his favorite social media platform is now.[29:41] Jack chats that most of his new business now comes through Instagram.[32:31] How much time do you allocate for social media?[33:47] Jack shares how he comes up with content for his social media accounts.[36:57] Do you believe that awards in the industry lack the recognition they used to have?[39:00] Jack speaks about consumer recognition and hairdressing awards and which ones might attract more stylists.[40:09] Jack believes that Olaplex products have their uses but you still can’t use it on really damaged hair.[42:22] In ten years, where do you see products going? Will it be more about sustainability?[43:57] Jack says that any technology that can make a stylist’s life better is the right technology.[45:47] Do you believe patch tests are necessary? What do you think about the lax standards in the U.S. and other countries about these tests?[48:02] Jack speaks about charging for his consultations, why he does, and what the charge covers.[50:47] People are much more aware of the allergic reactions associated with hair color and are asking for an organic pigment.[52:35] What type of recycling program do you have in your salon products and containers? [55:24] Jack speaks about women coloring their hair at home and the quality of the home products.[59:12] Jack believes that the new online salons that are popping up might affect the home colorists but not the ones that come into the salon to have their hair done.[1:01:54] How do you stay relevant? How do you reinvent yourself? How important is education?[1:03:24] Jack shares what his hope and dreams are for the next five to ten years.[1:06:08] Thank you so much, Jack, for being on the show! Links and Resources Grow My Salon Business Skyler LondonHunter CollectiveEpisode 018 with Alicia Soulier Find Jack Jack Howard Education@jackhowardcolorInstagram | Facebook | Linktree | Pinterest Podcast

Over the years I have seen many big-name salons in capital cities with high profile locations, expensive fit-outs and celebrity stylists. But sometimes those businesses don’t actually make any profit! They might generate a lot of revenue but the high overheads and often transient populations of both clients and staff create problems of their own. Then I see other salons, all over the world, that are maybe not in the capital cities, and maybe don’t quite get the prestige of being in such high profile locations. But despite that, they are very successful profitable businesses and can compete with ‘any salon anywhere’, no matter where they are. One such salon group in the UK is the Barrie Stephen salons in Leicester, which is a city with just over 300,000 people about 2½ hours north of London. Today's guest on the Podcast is Barrie Stephen part-owner of the salon group who with his partner Joachim has created a great business. In today's podcast we will discuss: What does it take to build a great team today? How to create a team culture?How do you motivate and lead a team…The importance of being part of the communityWhat are the keys to successful expansion?In This Episode:[02:02] Welcome to the show, Barrie![02:29] Barrie shares with us a little about his background and why he decided to be a hairdresser.[04:06] Barrie always had a dream of opening his own salon, even when he didn’t know how that could happen.[06:04] Barrie speaks about buying a salon in Leicester and letting everyone know they were there with a massive launch.[07:51] Barrie chats about his partner Joachim and when he came on board. [10:06] Is owning the building your salon is better than leasing?[10:42] Barrie is still behind the chair on Saturdays so that he can engage with the clients.[12:08] Is your mom a part of your business? Is she a stylist?[12:50] Barrie added a Barber Shop in his salon, which increased profits exponentially.[14:28] They are adding a whole floor in the King Street salon dedicated to men where they can get their shoes shined as well as a wet shave.[16:09] Barrie speaks about being one of the first salons that added a blow-dry styling bar.[17:18] Barrie says that having a sound business model is one of the keys to successfully expanding a business.[19:45] How do you create an influential culture within a company? How do you take care of your team?[21:22] Barrie details what he calls his 100K Club and how the incentives to his team.[22:33] Barrie believes that young people today tend to want things yesterday and not work to get there. He shares how he tries to motivate them so that they can be successful.[23:52] Can you share with us some of the practical things around health and fitness that you implemented in your salons?[27:35] Barrie speaks about the charities they support and how engaging with the community can boost morale.[30:10] Barries stylists are working with chemotherapy patients in local hospitals.[31:35] What system do you have in place for paying your stylists? Basic wages? Bonuses? Commissions?[34:50] Barrie is the creative, front of the house, and marketing person while his partner takes care of the business side. Separating the roles is essential to run a successful business.[36:43] With your experience, what would you say is a realistic profit margin for salons today? What is your profit margin?[38:35] Barrie shares the good and the bad when it comes to social media and how it has affected his business.[40:52] Where is your key focus? Instagram? Facebook?[41:47] Barrie speaks about the apps they have launched for the salons and the for phone calls that they use to enhance the customer experience.[45:23] What is your stand on stylists being self-employed or contract labour? Are your team members employees?[47:35] Barrie shares what drives him and makes him want to come to work.[48:30] How do you stay relevant and reinvent yourself year after year?[49:58] Barrie always looks for the positives, so when adversity presents itself, he focuses on how to make it positive.[51:44] What lessons have you learned over the years, in business or personal?[53:24] Any final words or bits of advice you have for our listeners before we wrap up?[54:15] Barrie believes that awards are still relevant because bringing an award back to your team is a great motivator, but they are overdone.[56:12] Thank you, Barrie, for taking time out of your day to share your passion and knowledge of the industry.Links and Resources Grow My Salon Business Find BarrieBarrie Stephen@barriestephenInstagram | Twitter | Facebook

“Can you imagine expanding your brand beyond your wildest dreams?” If that is something you think about, listen as Antony and his guest, Denis McFadden, founder of the Just Cuts group, chat about how he did just that. Denis shares with us how he went from having only a full-service salon to also opening up four Just Cuts salons in a matter of years, and the growth after that has been astounding. Listen in as we discuss:The story behind the Just Cuts brand.The important steps in building a franchise for both the franchisee and the franchisorSome of the challenges involved in expansion on that scale.How do you find and keep good people? Denis tells us about the early days as a salon owner and how that evolved to become the owner of 231 franchises. He shares why they don’t have chemical services, the cost of a haircut, and the fact that their clientele is about half and half women and men. Denis discusses training new stylists, the technology that allows them to manage salons from different countries, and whether franchisees are hairstylists or if they looking to invest. Listening to Denis talk about a business that he is passionate about makes you ask, ‘why haven’t I done that’? He shares the steps to building a franchise, the challenges involved, and how to find and keep great people. When you love what you do, you don’t work a day in your life, and when you are listening to Denis, you can sense the truth in that statement. In This Episode:[01:48] Welcome to the show, Denis![02:25] Listen, as Denis speaks about his journey from a hairdresser to founding a franchised brand.[06:23] Denis talks about how he started the Just Cuts brand without really knowing he was building a franchise prototype.[07:45] He chats about one of his stylists wanting to have a Just Cuts salon, which was his first franchisee.[10:26] Denis speaks about the early days being more about sponsoring people than actual franchise fees.[11:41] He details how he used to collect franchise fees, not through haircuts per week instead of percentages.[14:10] His salons only do haircuts, and the price is the same for men and women.[14:55] Why don’t you do chemical treatments like color or perms?[19:00] The clientele in his salons is split down the middle, 50% women and 50% men.[20:30] There are no receptionists, clients check themselves in through an IPad, and they have the option of adding ala carte items like a shampoo or a blow-dry.[25:21] Denis tells us the salons have about a 7% growth each week.[26:04] What is the number of haircuts each stylist does per day? Is there a benchmark?[28:28] Business is growing; they now have 231 salons.[29:11] Denis speaks about embracing technology so they can run salons from different countries.[30:30] How do you train your staff? Online or in-person?[32:18] A lot of the franchise owners are not hairstylists, and they get reports from managers that run their salons.[34:10] Denis says that some owners are more dedicated, but others don’t do as well because they are managing remotely.[34:48] Are they all franchised, or are there any company-owned salons?[36:12] Denis explains how they train franchisees, especially if they are not stylists.[38:27] What apps do you use? Are they for the owners, stylists, or both?[40:09] He shares that all salons have a POS system with the ability to keep track of all transactions.[42:46] Denis that the total yearly sales in his salons are approximately 90 million dollars and his goal is to have is retail products “Justice” be 20% of that total.[43:25] He encourages his franchisees to embrace local charities; he describes some of the charities they support.[45:45] Denis chats about some of his stylists that have saved a client’s life because they noticed issues on their scalps.[46:42] Denis, what drives you? What keeps you going? What challenges do you face?[48:01] He shares about the Olympic games and how many athletes his stylists gave free haircuts too because another company pulled out at the last moment.[50:27] What are some of the biggest lessons you have learned while growing your business? What advice would you give new business owners?[52:22] Denis discusses how he retains his 3500 stylists and how they recruit.[56:29] There are no appointments, and you can’t request a particular stylist at Just Cuts.[57:15] Denis, thank you so much for being on the show today!Links and Resources Grow My Salon Business Find Denis Denis McFaddenLinkedIn | Facebook

“What is marketing?” If that question makes you stop a second and think you need to listen as Antony discusses all things marketing on this episode of the Grow My Salon Business podcast. There are three significant areas he will focus on with many other ideas surfacing along the way. Listen in as we discuss:What is marketing meant to do?Why it is essential to understand who your target market or client is.What is the concept of your salon business?Marketing is communication by connecting and engaging with people. Marketing used to be about advertising, but today if you advertise who you are and what you do, it isn’t enough. It is about making a promise to your clients and potential clients and then delivering on that promise. What message are you and your team communicating 24/7? Antony discusses and explains the functions of marketing, the first being defining your vision, the second is the positioning of the brand, the third cohesive image, setting the experience, and advertising finishes it up. Building a business is like putting together a jigsaw puzzle; each piece comes together to make a whole.Who is your ideal client? Antony says that is the first thing you need to know and market to that type of client. He asks, ‘if my salon was a magazine which one would it be?’ Be clear on what your salon concept is what you are offering. The key to successful marketing is reaching people who already want to buy what you sell. Antony gives a set of questions that you should ask yourself when deciding what kind of salon you want to have. He said to think about the questions and answers and see if you have the salon you wish to have. Antony chats about business models and that no matter which one you chose, there is money to be made if you do it correctly.Listen to this excellent marketing information and see if there are some areas you could change or market better.In This Episode:[00:30] Welcome to today’s episode with Antony.[01:07] What is marketing?[01:37] Marketing used to be about advertising, but today it is about engaging people.[02:24] Effective marketing must be authentic to connect and engage people.[04:07] Antony discusses the functions of marketing, the first being vision[04:45] The second being positioning the brand.[06:15] The third is developing a cohesive image.[06:40] Defining the experience is the fourth.[06:55] Then there would be advertising.[07:50] Marketing is also about social media, but one alone will not help, but collectively they can help you achieve what you are striving for.[08:35] Building a business is like putting together a jigsaw puzzle.[10:28] The role of marketing is about growth, and the purpose of marketing is communication.[11:22] Five new clients a week is a healthy rate of growth.[12:17] The problem is turning the new clients into regulars and keeping them.[13:11] It starts with understanding who your target market is or who your ideal client is.[16:00] If your salon was a magazine, which magazine which one would it be?[18:08] Be clear on who you are and what your salon is offering.[19:13] What is the concept for your salon? Why will a client come to you over all of the other salons?[20:58] Antony describes the different types of salons and where they fall on the price scale.[25:19] A successful business model today is not necessarily the one that will be successful tomorrow.[26:08] How do you decide where you should put your focus? Where is your ambition?[28:48] Where are the opportunities in your market might be a question you want to ask yourself.[29:45] Where is the money to be made is another question to ask yourself.[31:26] One type of business is not better or worse than another; there is money to be made in all of them.[32:26] Another question to ask is, how well do you communicate your point of difference?[33:07] Make sure that everything you are communicating speaks to the same message so that everything is cohesive.[34:07] Pause this podcast, ponder each of these questions, and see what answer you come up with.[35:02] My salon concept is?[35:41] My ideal client is?[36:25] The perfect size and location of my salon is?[37:21] I have aligned myself with the XYZ product company because?[38:14] To our clients, we are known for?[39:05] The top three things that will attract and keep our team?[39:27] What sets us apart from the competition is?[40:38] If you liked today’s episode, please share and write a review. Links and Resources Grow My Salon Business

On today’s episode of the Grow My Salon Business podcast, Antony speaks with Sam Villa. Sam is known in the industry for his passion, authenticity, humility, and for being a great educator because teaching is his passion. Listen in as we discuss:The changes that are happening in education.The role of social media in continuing education.The personal skills of success.Sam talks about his background, why he never wanted to be a barber, and why he chose to be a stylist. He speaks about being in his dad’s barbershop shining shoes for customers when he was a young boy. His father took him to a hair show in 1976 put on by Vidal Sassoon, and that was the catalyst that made him decide to be a hairdresser. He worked at a salon for three years after beauty school and then opened his own salon. After owning the salon for 20 years, he was offered a great opportunity with Redkin to be an educator. He closed his salon to pursue this new direction. He felt that in the salon, he could only help a handful of people, but being an educator at live shows, he could reach thousands of people. Listen in as Sam speaks about what customers want, that price is what they pay, and value is what they get. He believes that we all need to be teachers behind the chair and be able to create an experience. Sam talks about continuing education on the internet versus face to face and why he thinks that online is a convenience, but a live event is an experience.Sam shares his knowledge and insight into the industry and what he sees happening in 2020. He talks about the ergonomic tool’s company he launched, his advice for hairdressers, and salon professionals that are thinking about opening a salon. This is one of those conversations you don’t want to miss, so sit back, relax, and plugin. In This Episode:[01:18] Welcome to the show, Sam![02:12] Sam gives us a backstory on who he is and what he has accomplished in his 43 years in this industry.[03:05] Did you start as a barber?[03:52] He chats about shining shoes at his dad’s barbershop.[04:29] Sam talks about going to a hair show in 1976 that Vidal Sassoon was putting on.[06:34] After beauty school, he went to work at a salon for about three years before opening his own salon in California.[07:45] He got a great opportunity with Redkin and decided to close one chapter and open another.[10:52] Do you think you need to close the salon side to be a runway artist?[13:01] Do you ever miss owning the salon?[14:06] They talk about the changes happening in the industry with education and the need to be at live events.[16:12] Sam tells us why his ego doesn’t get in the way of being humble.[19:55] He discusses why ongoing education is so crucial for all hairstylists.[24:58] What do you think about the two different systems of learning between beauty school and apprenticeships?[28:24] Sam believes that learning from social media is fine as long as you marry it with face to face education.[31:10] What is the difference between the social media channels you use?[33:30] Sam gives us his thoughts on the changes in the industry with technology and advertising.[37:37] He speaks about what he sees globally in salons, the retail model, and the changes to come.[42:11] What still drives you? What keeps you going after all these years?[44:46] Sam talks about how he reinvents himself and how he keeps himself relevant.[46:47] He tells us that when diversity hits, as long as he can pick himself back up and learn from it it’s not a mistake.[48:19] What’s the biggest lesson that you have learned in life in general?[49:41] Sam gives us his advice for someone going through each stage of their career as a hairdresser.[53:15] What information would you give someone thinking of opening a salon?[55:47] They talk about when it’s the right time to close a salon for whatever reason and have an exit plan.[57:53] Sam speaks about what he thinks 2020 holds for the industry and his goal for the year.[59:31] They discuss what has been televised about the risk with permanent hair color.[1:02:30] Sam speaks about the ergonomic tool company that he says is his exit plan.[1:05:27] Sam gives us his final words.Links and Resources Grow My Salon Business Find Sam VillaSam Villa@samvillahairYouTube | Instagram | Pinterest@samvillaprosFacebook |

Welcome to the Grow My Salon Business podcast with host Antony Whitaker. In today’s episode, Antony is speaking with Martha Lynn Kale. Martha Lynn is the owner of the award-winning salon Mirror Mirror based in Austin, Texas. Listen in as we discuss:The importance of finding balance in your life.What it takes to succeed as a woman in business today, especially while balancing a young family.The importance of blogging and social media.What exactly is a safer salon?What do the staff want today?Martha Lynn tells us about wanting to launch her own business and quitting her job in advertising and marketing to go to Cosmetology School at age 27. She started building her clientele in beauty school, took them with her to a small salon, then a larger salon, and two years later launched her salon Mirror Mirror. They discuss how her salon has evolved over the last few years, how she balances her personal life with her work and the fact that Instagram is the number one way they bring new clients into the salon. Martha Lynn talks about the incentive program they have for stylists to be highlighted on the Instagram feed, and her blog on hair that helps get the salon on other social media sites.Martha Lynn talks about delegating what she can so that she is able to concentrate on her children, having a manager in the salon that she can trust, what products she allows to be sold in the salon, and why she is so focused on a safe salon model. She also chats about what she is not prepared to compromise on in the salon and how she keeps her employees motivated and happy so that they keep the turnover rate down.Are you willing to push up your sleeves and get busy? Martha Lynn did and she says, anyone can as long as they are eager to put in the work. Listen in to learn where she started and how she got where she is. This is a very informative conversation with an amazing woman who will not be stopped. In This Episode:[01:38] Welcome to the show, Martha Lynn![02:13] Martha Lynn starts out telling us a little about her background.[03:46] Why did you choose to become a stylist?[05:04] She tells us that while she was in school, she started building her clientele.[06:10] She was nominated as the best hairstylist in Austin ten months out of school.[09:26] How did your background in advertising, marketing, and branding help you when you opened your salon?[11:10] Martha Lynn speaks about how her salon evolved into what it is today.[13:32] They expanded the business in the last few years and now have about 17 employees.[16:18] How do you find balance with work, children, and being a wife?[17:53] Martha Lynn talks about Instagram and how instrumental it has been for the growth of her salon.[20:48] She has an eCommerce site to sell beauty products.[22:38] Martha Lynn says that Instagram gets them new clients, and they have about 20% new clients each month.[24:14] The stylists have key performance indicators to get highlighted on the salon’s Instagram page.[25:32] They discuss her blog that feeds into the salon.[28:15] Martha Lynn speaks about the products they carry and why she chose them.[31:08] What roles have you delegated in the salon that keep it running like clockwork?[33:25] She has a salon manager that is the sauce of the business even though when she hired him, it wasn’t in the budget.[36:08] What is the biggest challenge that you’ve had in the salon?[38:43] What aren’t you prepared to compromise in your business?[39:58] They discuss the programs they use to keep the salon running smoothly.[44:46] What are some of the things you do to keep your team motivated and retain your staff?[46:00] Martha Lynn tells us that one of their core values is innovation.[47:26] Mirror Mirror has a specific dollar per day amount that they have to hit to have a level of flexibility with their days.[50:05] Is the whole salon commission-based now? Is there a sliding scale for commissions? What is the percentage the stylists are paid?[51:42] If she could go back and give herself advice at the beginning, she would say pay yourself and be confident.[53:36] Success to her means creating something that is its own living breathing thing, to be able to step back and see that what she created can run on its own.[57:29] Martha Lynn, how can people find you?[58:14] She says anyone can do this as long as they are not afraid of hard work.Links and Resources Grow My Salon Business Find Martha LynnMirror Mirror Salon@marthalynnkaleInstagram | Twitter | Facebook | Pinterest@mirrormirroratxInstagram | Twitter | Facebook

In this episode of Grow My Salon Business with host Antony Whitaker, Antony is talking with Eric Taylor. Eric is the founder of the Salon Republic, salon suite business in California. Salon Republic is booming with 21 locations and a total of over 2000 individual suites. On top of that, Eric is also a fantastic podcaster and has a podcast called The Hair Game. Listen in as we discuss:Why the salon studio model started.Who started it and where. What is driving the growth? Things to consider when looking at leasing a suite.Who is a fit for the suite atmosphere?They compare the differences between a commission-based salon and the salon suite model. The pros and cons of both, and what that looks like from both an industry and a client perspective. Eric also talks about the average cost of having a salon suite, what that cost covers, and the new beauty supply store they have in house.Eric believes that what is driving the salon suite business model is the flexibility it offers, you set the hours, you set the prices and you set the days of the week you want to work. It is the ability to own your own business without all of the overhead of actually owning a stand-alone salon. But as Antony points out, “it’s not for everybody!” If you are a stylist and are thinking wow I want to do that! Listen as Eric fills us in on why it is an excellent option for the right person. He is so knowledgeable about the industry, has grown his business exponentially and is looking to expand further. Whether or not you like the salon suite model this is a conversation that you need to hear in order to understand the changes impacting on the industry and what is driving those changes. In This Episode:[01:32] Welcome to the show, Eric![02:15] Eric discusses what the salon studio model concept is, why, and where it started.[06:50] Antony talks about the scale of suite models and how many can fit in a 20,000sq ft warehouse.[09:27] Each studio is an individual business with four walls and a door, and the stylist is in charge of everything from services to rates.[10:10] What is the most prominent reason stylists like the studio model?[12:37] This is more for stylists with a good client base; there are not enough walk-ins to build a business.[15:40] Antony plays devils advocate and askes Eric why commissioned salon owners should take new stylists out of school, help them build a clientele for them to leave, and open up their own suite?[17:53] Eric says the reality is that each salon model has its pros and cons.[22:27] What is the mindset that has allowed this model to explode in Texas and California?[28:51] They speak about clients wanting to be in a bustling salon and not in one chair, one mirror kind of environment, and who likes it.[31:46] What was the response from traditional salon owners when you first started this suite model?[34:27] What does an average suite cost, and what does the cost cover?[37:04] Eric discusses what the expense of a suite covers at Salon Republic and about the beauty supply store they have available.[42:17] The industry average of people who leave salons, in general, is 30%, but at Salon Republic, the turnover is about 15%.[44:53] How important is social media for marketing what stylists have to offer?[46:46] Eric believes that the studio model doesn’t necessarily rely on social media; word of mouth is the best marketing tool.[48:48] How many studio stylists use it as a stepping stone to open up their own salon?[52:33] Eric says that his studio stylists do bring on assistants and are training the next generations.[53:20] How long are the leases at Salon Republic studios?[54:29] What is a typical suite owner?[57:24] Eric says that in the next five years, there will be more studio offerings nationwide and will continue to grow.[01:00:15] Any plans on international expansion for Salon Republic?[01:02:03] Thank you, Eric, for giving us your time on a Friday night!Find Eric@loveerictaylorInstagram@salonrepublicInstagram | LinkedIn | FacebookThanks 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 Eric for sharing his words of wisdom with me for this week’s episode. Until next time!

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 GuruFind VivienneHairDesignerTV@viviennemackingerInstagram | Facebook | LinkedIn | YouTube

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 solvesHow to maximise the profitability of your colour servicesHow should you price salon colour servicesWhat 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!

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 hairdresserHow she achieves a personal retail result of around $3000 per weekHow to pay your teamWhat motivates people todayWhy developing culture takes time but is worth the waitAnd 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…

The Hairdressing industry means different things to different people, but when all's said and done ‘it’s a business’ and yes businesses are about people and creativity and creating opportunity… But businesses are also about numbers! And although in many ways as an industry we are often slow to embrace technology, it is technology that gives us easy access to the numbers and information that allow us to build better businesses. In todays Podcast I am talking with Ronan Perceval CEO of an Irish hairdressing industry success story ‘Phorest salon software’. Amongst other things we will discuss… How Phorest continues to evolve as a companyWhat the main KPI’s are that salon owners should focus on.What are some of the differences in salon performance depending on the country you live in… andThe ‘Phorest’ ownership model… and that’s just to start

In today's Podcast I am talking with Derek Hull who has a wealth of knowledge in many areas of the hairdressing industry. Amongst other things, we will discuss The salon memberships business modelThe changing employee business modelsThe legal definitions that determine whether someone is an employee or an independent contractorThe laws around employee ’deductions’, service charges or ‘product charges’The changing professional retail model Although today's guest is from the United States most of what we discuss is relevant no matter where your business is based. So without further ado lets get into today's show…

On today's Podcast we are talking about hair colour, my guest is Skyler Hanna owner of ‘Skyler London’ a specialist ‘colour only salon’. She is a passionate hair colourist and savvy business woman who has some groundbreaking approaches to running a colour salon. So let’s get into it! On today's podcast amongst other things we talk about; The concept behind a ‘colour only salon’Some of the unique marketing and client experiences that the business offers.The menu and pricing system at Skyler LondonThe home hairdressing colour market

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 MaciucaHairdressing awards andThe challenges and opportunities’ the industry presents today

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 discussWhether or not you should outsource your social mediaWhether you should have a ‘social media policy’ to protect your business when team members leaveThe value in looking after ‘social influencers’And the pro’s and cons of some of the social platformsAnd that's just the beginning…

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.

My guest today is Geno Stampora a hairdresser, author, speaker, business guru, consultant, entertainer and general all-round industry expert and nice guy. Geno has a passion and a level of enthusiasm for learning and sharing information that is infectious and rare to find. I think it’s fair to say that he has devoted most of his professional life to helping hairdressers ‘grow’. Very few people love hairdressers and the hair and beauty business quite like Geno.

One of the biggest challenges that the salon industry faces everywhere is ‘Recruitment’. So why isn’t there an online recruitment platform that specialises in the hairdressing industry, a sort of linked-in for hairdressers? Well now there is. In today's Podcast, I have the pleasure of speaking with Jen and Matt Martinelli who are the founders of a new startup website recruitment platform called Canvas Recruit and it specialises in the hair and beauty space. On this podcast we discuss: How salons today can market themselves to potential team membersHow team members can market themselves to potential salonsWhat’s driving change in the employee - employer model of the futureThe fluid nature of employment today

On todays podcast I talk with Chris Nedza founder of ZeeZor which is a hairdressing Productivity App. Although not a hairdresser Chris is a serial Entrepreneur and creative thinker and he developed ZeeZor as a real time mobile reporting tool so that his wife could better manage her chain of 43 salons. Although ZeeZor is currently only available in the US the thinking behind the technology is universally applicable. What you will learn about in this podcast is:The importance of using numbers and data to drive productivity and employee engagement.The need to give real time feedback.Using technology and data to increase employee engagement.The need for ‘real time’ mobile reporting.Using data to inspire and motivate.Using ’gamification’ to inspire and motivate.How to use competitions to drive productivity.

My guest today is Taelor Pleas hairdresser, presenter, salon industry coach and director of recruitment, hiring and training at the Cutting Loose Salon Group in Florida. In todays PODCAST we will cover:How much you want to earn isn’t a percentage, it’s a $ value.Finding balance in a family run business.Making 6 figures in a 4 day week.

On todays Podcast I am talking with Linton Husbands. Who although not a hairdresser has spent a life time in the hairdressing industry, primarily working with product companies. Now days he's very much on the salon side of things managing a group of 22 salons for Group Momentum which is the brand name for a collection of hairdressing salon chains in the South East of England. On this podcast we will cover…How do you value a salon business?The challenges with buying an existing businessThe secret to managing multiple salons?The importance of having exit strategies.When is the best time to sell a business.

My guest today is Meagan McCormack who has amongst other titles Chief Operating Officer of the Visible Changes salon group based in Houston Texas.Visible changes was started by Meagan's parents John and Maryanne McCormack but today is run by Meagan and her brother Johnny. I promise that you are going to love this podcast, Visible Changes is an incredibly inspiring salon business that everyone can learn something from.On this podcast we will cover the following key areas:The importance of recognition, celebration and reward in building a sustainable salon culture.The importance of giving back.What a family business really means.

In todays episode I’ll be talking with Clive Allwright an Australian Salon Owner who is also front man and founder of a start up website that addressees ‘two challenges' the industry has everywhere.The first being affordable and customised salon education, and the second being finding staff, specifically assistants.The first being affordable and customised salon educationThe second is finding staff, specifically assistants.Clive and his team have come up with a technology based solution that embraces the GIG economy… it’s a great example of an expression I once heard, “You won’t solve todays challenges with yesterdays thinking” We need new thinking for new age challenges and new solutions, and that’s what Clive and his team have done.

My guest today is Gordon Miller C.E.O of Hairbrained.Gordon brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to us today acquired over the last 40 odd years working primarily in the education and media side of the hair and beauty industry, he is a passionate advocate and embracer of all things digital and today that is where we will focus.In todays podcast the focus is on digital disruption and the four key areas we discuss are:1. The new Chanel for professional product distribution being Amazon (primarily at this point in time mainly in the United States)2. What is the impact and future impact on the salon industry?3. How some manufacturers are approaching the Amazon model in a positive way for both clients and salons.4. What are 3 things a salon owner should do to capitalise on the in-salon take home opportunity.

My Guests today are Robert and Mary Cromeans from the Robert Cromeans Salons in San Diego, Las Vegas, and Oklahoma. Robert is also the Creative and Business Director at John Paul Mitchell Systems.In todays Podcast Robert and Mary give their thoughts on 4 key areas1. Selling time and charging for salon services by the time taken instead of the more traditional fixed service prices.2. The trend towards removing the front desk from salons to make them more mobile and arguably a more efficient client experience.3. When it comes to in-salon take home product the importance and benefits of staging product placement as part of the client in-salon experience.4. How numbers influence behaviours and different ways of paying your team.

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.