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No matter where you live in the world, if there is one phrase that I’m sure you’re as tired of hearing as I am, it’s: ‘Unprecedented times.’ But, without doubt, the last couple of years have been tough for most people. We have been tested physically, financially and emotionally in our businesses and in our personal lives as a result of the drastic changes that have been thrust upon us. Today is ‘Part 1’ of a two-part series focusing on what I am calling ‘comeback stories.’ I will be talking to two couples who have battled adversities and come out the other end in good shape! We can all learn from their resilience, willpower, strength, and courage.  Henry Monreal and Liz Salcedo from Salon Ink in San Diego are my guests today. I spoke to them at the beginning of COVID and now, two years on, they have had a great turnaround in their business. In today’s podcast we will discuss: Their business journey and how they have bounced back post COVID Dealing with major health challenges Finding balance in both personal and business commitments… And lots more! In this Episode: [04:17] The traumatic moment that took place in Liz and Henry lives in May 2019. [10:11] What the initial COVID period looked like for Henry and Liz’s business, Salon Ink.   [12:16] The philosophy that has kept Liz and Henry going through the tough times.  [13:46] How Henry and Liz have rebuilt Salon Ink. [18:36] Passion that Liz and Henry feel towards their work.  [20:30] Motivation behind Salon Ink’s large retail section, and the benefits it has brought to the business. [24:14] Why Henry and Liz have incorporated a large degree of flexibility into their business model. [25:09] An important lesson that Liz and Henry learned during the pandemic.  [21:21] 30: the number of weekly hours worked by 60% of US hairdressers.  [28:16] The mindset that Henry and Liz’s employees have towards their work.  [29:43] Potential that lies in the salon industry, using Liz and Henry’s life as an example.  [31:31] Henry shares what his experiences over the past few years have taught him. [33:08] Some of Liz’s key learnings, and what she believes to be her purpose in life.  Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated!  They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast.  I also love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast! Just click here to review, scroll to the bottom, tap “Ratings and Reviews” tap to rate with 5 stars and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favourite part of the podcast is. Thank you for your support! Special thanks to Liz and Henry for sharing their story with me for this week’s episode. Until next time! Antony Links and Resources: Grow My Salon Business  Website | Facebook | Instagram Salon Ink Website | Instagram | Twitter | Facebook | TikTok

Good ideas can, and do, come from anywhere.  An easy trap to fall into is thinking that it’s only big salons with big budgets and celebrity owners that set the trends when it comes to new business-building ideas. But that’s simply not the case.  My guest today is a salon owner who is living proof that no matter how small your town is, you can do big things! Lisa Carr is the innovative and passionate owner of the Bad Hair Day (BHD) salon in Tecumseh, a town in Michigan in the United States with a population of 8,500! In today’s podcast we discuss: How the BHD salon has grown 37% since Covid  How Lisa has introduced greater flexibility for her team into her business model Her innovative approach to marketing and not being afraid to reinvent the way business is done. And lots more! In This Episode: [4:04] Why the changes that came about because of the Covid-19 pandemic were a blessing in disguise for Lisa’s salon business, Bad Hair Day (BHD). [8:52] Factors that Lisa attributes to the fact that her business grew by 37% in 2020. [13:16] The pivotal point that Lisa reached after her first 8 years as a salon owner. [17:34] Lisa explains the process she went through to systematize and grow her salon after she decided she was no longer going to work behind the chair. [22:33] Why Lisa opted for three salon directors rather than one salon manager. [24:02] How Lisa’s decision to stop working behind the chair affected the profitability of her salon. [26:49] The staff compliment at BHD, and the ideal number of money-producing staff members Lisa would like to have. [29:43] Words of wisdom from Lisa: You don’t have to be in debt to have a great business (and how she has managed to achieve this). [30:40] The valuable lesson Lisa learned when she took up position behind the chair again for a brief period. [32:06] Lisa explains the philosophy she lives by: Earn the Right (and the other two elements which she sees as essential to running a successful business). [34:50] Changes that Lisa incorporated into her salon after conducting an anonymous staff survey. [38:25] Examples of the personal development training that Lisa does with her staff. [43:25] Where Lisa’s drive to continuously reinvent her business comes from, and the advantages of having a salon business in a small town like Tecumseh. [46:58] Lisa’s approach to advertising. [52:07] The percentage of total revenue at BDH that comes from retail, the award that they won recently, and Lisa’s approach to motivating her team to sell retail products. Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated!  They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast.  I also love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast! Just click here to review, scroll to the bottom, tap “Ratings and Reviews” tap to rate with 5 stars and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favourite part of the podcast is. Thank you for your support! Special thanks to Lisa for sharing her insights with me for this week’s episode. Until next time!Antony Links and Resources: Grow My Salon Business  Website | Facebook | Instagram Bad Hair Day Salon Website | Instagram  Lisa Carr LinkedIn | Instagram

“Whatever the question, the answer is always education.” Don’t be put off by the title of this episode: regardless of who you are, what age you are, or what stage of your career you are at, you are about to learn something important. Do not make the mistake of thinking that this is just for women, or just for women of a certain age, because it’s for everyone!  Over 80% of the salon industry is made up of women. So, if you’re a man, it’s highly likely that you will have female team members and/or female clientele, which makes this episode very relevant to you. My guest on today's Podcast is Catherine O’Keeffe. She has a business called ‘Wellness Warrior’ and she is Ireland's first menopause coach. In today’s podcast we will discuss: The difference between perimenopause and menopause Dealing with the symptoms of menopause The impact that menopause can have on morale, productivity and retention How menopause affects hair… And lots more! For full show notes, links and resources mentioned in this episode visit: https://growmysalonbusiness.com/podcast/145/ Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated!  They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast. I also love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast!  Just click here to review, scroll to the bottom, tap “Ratings and Reviews” tap to rate with 5 stars and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favourite part of the podcast is. Thank you for your support! And finally, don’t forget to subscribe to the show to get automatic updates. Got a question you want answered on the podcast? DM me your question over on Instagram or just come on over to connect at: https://www.instagram.com/growmysalonbusiness/

I've had a few questions recently from listeners regarding inflation, the looming recession, how they are impacting the hairdressing industry, and what I believe salons should be doing to counteract it. In this episode, I dive in and explore what the implications are for the salon industry (and for small businesses in general) as many countries experience the worst inflation in over 40 years… To say it’s new territory for many business owners is an understatement! The 3 main topics that I cover in this podcast are: What are the lessons we have (hopefully) learned from Covid? The importance of understanding where you and your business are from a financial perspective at any point in time. How do we, as small business owners, navigate the financial road ahead? For full show notes, links and resources mentioned visit: https://growmysalonbusiness.com/podcast/144/ Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated! They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast. I also love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast!  Just click here to review, scroll to the bottom, tap “Ratings and Reviews” tap to rate with 5 stars and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favourite part of the podcast is. Thank you for your support! And finally, don’t forget to subscribe to the show to get automatic updates. Got a question you want answered on the podcast? DM me your question over on Instagram or just come on over to connect at: https://www.instagram.com/growmysalonbusiness/

My guest on today’s Podcast is London based hairdresser and owner of a 5 strong salon group and academy Gina Conway. Originally from California, she has been based in London for the last 20 plus years and has built up a great reputation as one of London's leading salons. Gina is passionate about delivering a five-star level of service and is widely known not just for doing great hair but also for her total commitment to sustainably and the ethical side of hairdressing. In the process, she has built up a considerable business and a reputation to match… and she’s just getting started. In today’s episode we discuss: Balancing the demands of life as an owner of 5 salons, a wife, mother and finding time for everything else. Sustainability in salons today. Creating a team and culture where people want to come to work. The customer service journey. Growing a team and successful expansion. And lot's more! In this Episode: [03:30] Gina also has a fashion degree and became interested in entrepreneurship.  [03:39] She moved to London 21 years ago and worked at John Frieda.  [04:04] Gina wanted to bring California sunshine to London and create a team and culture where people would want to come to work.  [05:08] Yes, it was love that brought Gina to London. One husband and three children later, and she's still here! [08:21] We talk about what the industry can learn from different areas.  [10:02] Gina accomplishes so much. She is constantly innovating. She is so passionate about what she does, it doesn't feel like work. [12:57] Being in your zone is like meditation. The mindful hairdresser allows hairdressers to be in the flow and create mindful haircuts. It's communication in a deep creative space for clients.  [15:27] Gina has three salons in London. She collaborated with a friend to consolidate marketing and now all of the salons are called Gina Conway. [16:47] They also have an apprenticeship program where they train about 20 hairdressing students.  [17:19] She has a staff of around 100 people. [19:17] Gina shares how John Frieda let her go when she talked about opening her own salon. Her new salon was empty, so she filled it with art.  [20:56] Gina built her customer service reputation in the industry by giving every customer the platinum treatment. [24:51] Gina and her partner want to franchise sustainable salons and help other entrepreneurs. [26:28] Look at your products. Are they using sustainable materials? Look at plastics and bottles. Look at energy and recycling. Consider everything that you purchase. Reuse and refuse, if you can. Think holistically about everything including water use.  [30:12] The green fee is included in the price of the haircuts. This is who we are and what we do. We also plant a tree for each client. [34:28] Gina talks about the importance of having a strong culture and teaching the team the why and the values from the start. [41:19] Generational changes include focusing on mental health and supporting students in making up for lost time. Stability, security, and finding a career path is also so important.  [49:34] A good salon should be generating between 12% and 15% with a goal of 20% in retail.  [56:42] Gina is constantly innovating and improving. She's all about momentum. Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated!  They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast.  I also love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast! Just click here to review, scroll to the bottom, tap “Ratings and Reviews” tap to rate with 5 stars and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favourite part of the podcast is. Thank you for your support! Special thanks to Gina for sharing her insights with me for this week’s episode. Until next time! Antony Links and Resources: Grow My Salon Business Website | Facebook | Instagram Gina ConwayWebsite | Instagram | Twitter | Facebook | YouTube | Pinterest AvedaWebsite John Paul Mitchell SystemsWebsite | Instagram | Twitter | Facebook | YouTube | Pinterest Green Salon CollectiveWebsite

Today, the need to highlight environmental and social initiatives is more pertinent than ever. Unfortunately, those causes and everything they represent are often drowned out by the latest headline of the day.  However, the increased level of social and environmental awareness and urgency isn’t about to go away. In fact, these issues are only becoming more and more pressing. So, we all need to ‘own’ our contribution and stop waiting for someone else to fix our problems.    My guest on today's Podcast is Mara Gourdine, the Global Culture Ambassador at John Paul Mitchell Systems. Behind that impressive title, Mara is very much involved in the corporate side of directing and contributing to making change happen. In my conversation with Mara today my objective is to keep coming back to how salon owners and stylists can adapt what a big business does and integrate those ideas into their own businesses. In today’s podcast we will discuss: What Mara’s day-to-day job consists of The wider responsibilities of businesses today The importance of greater diversity and inclusivity in every business How salons can include the wider community in more local environmental and social initiatives… And lots more! In this Episode: [03:22] What it means to be a Global Culture Ambassador. [05:56] Mara shares the story of how she became the Global Culture Ambassador at John Paul Mitchell Systems, and what this role entails.  [14:48] The link between a company’s internal culture and its external impact.  [17:26] A Walk on Water; what this organization does and how John Paul Mitchell Systems became involved with them.  [25:05] Mara’s racial lineage, and the influence that this has had on her life.   [26:23] The global movement that was sparked by the death of George Floyd, and how John Paul Mitchell Systems responded to it.  [32:11] A valuable lesson that Mara learned from her mom about equity and inclusion.    [33:08] Perspectives to be gained from listening to the stories of people who are different from you. [34:22] The importance of imagery and education when it comes to enhancing the inclusivity of your salon.  [38:22] Mara’s approach to onboarding employees at John Paul Mitchell Systems, and how it differs from her own experience of joining the company.   [43:55] Encouragement from Mara to share your joys and passions with others and to look after your mental and physical health.  [47:47] The key to building a compassionate company culture, and examples of how John Paul Mitchell Studios has done this. [50:26] Why Mara doesn’t use social media. Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated!  Special thanks to Mara for sharing her insights with me for this week’s episode. Until next time! Antony Links and Resources: Grow My Salon Business  Website | Facebook | Instagram Mara Gourdine LinkedIn Angus Mitchell Instagram John Paul Mitchell Systems Website | Instagram | Twitter | Facebook | YouTube | Pinterest Paul Mitchell Schools Website

There are many qualities to take into consideration if you are going to refer to a salon business as being one of the very 'best in the world’ and we would each have our own criteria to consider.   When it comes to great leadership, a fantastic culture, excellent training, a real career path, great team retention, and consistently having 20% plus in retail and having a very profitable business, there are two salons that really stand out to me. The first one is JUUT Salons, whose owner, David Wagner, I interviewed on a previous episode. If you haven’t checked it out yet, go back and have a listen.  The second is Van Michael Salon, and today I’m going to be speaking to Van Council, the founder and co-owner of this incredible business which sets the bar at a level that very few salons can come close to!  In today’s podcast we will discuss: Adapting your business model to the times The importance of standards, training, systems and exceptional service Lessons in leadership…  And lots more! In this Episode: [04:36] What drew Van to hairdressing, and an overview of his +45 year career in the salon industry (and his experience working in construction). [13:01] Valuable lessons that Van learnt during the time he spent living in London. [16:37] Van explains what motivated him to open his own business, Van Michael Salon.  [20:44] Growth that Van Michael Salon has experienced over the years.  [25:05] What Van wishes he had known when he co-founded Van Michael Salon. [27:08] Key elements which have resulted in the very successful expansion of Van Michael Salon.  [34:48] Examples of the effort that Van puts in to make his salons stand out. [36:36] Unique features of the Van Michael Salon call centre. [41:24] Skills that Van drew on when he was working behind the chair, which he is now teaching to his staff.  [43:31] Van’s thoughts on why Atlanta has a particularly strong salon based business culture in comparison to other areas. [45:59] How Van branched his business out into Japan, and lessons from there that he has brought back to his American based salons.  [51:49] Changes that Van is working into his business model. [59:54] An overview of the two-year training program that Van takes new employees through, and the philosophy that he instils in them during this time. [1:10:32] The level system at Van Michael Salon. [1:13:48] Metrics that Van aims to maintain in his salons (and goals that he has for the future). [1:20:15] Van’s approach to creating a healthy company culture, his biggest strength as a leader, and advice for hiring employees.  Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated! They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast.  I also love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast! Just click here to review, scroll to the bottom, tap “Ratings and Reviews” tap to rate with 5 stars and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favourite part of the podcast is. Thank you for your support! Special thanks to Van for sharing their insights with me for this week’s episode. Until next time! Antony Links and Resources: Grow My Salon Business  Website | Facebook | Instagram Van Michael Salon Website | Instagram | Twitter | Facebook Van Michael Studio Instagram Van Council Instagram

“Build it and they will come” is a line from the 1989 movie ‘Field of Dreams’.  Unfortunately, it is a strategy that many salon owners use when opening up a new salon only to find that Hollywood movies don’t necessarily reflect business reality. In today's podcast episode, I am answering two questions from our listeners. In answering their questions I will be explaining why “build it and they will come” is not an effective strategy for starting and growing a business. The first question is from Sandy in Birmingham who asks… “I opened my salon 4 years ago and I am finding it hard to grow. It's a beautiful space to work in, I have 3 staff members, [two stylists and an assistant] I'm great at doing hair, I'm always fully booked and I generate most of the revenue myself working 5 ½  days a week behind the chair. But despite that the business just won't grow so what should I do?” The second question is from Steve in Florida who asks… “I heard you say on one of your YouTube videos that salon owners shouldn’t employ a manager. So, can you talk about why I shouldn’t employ a manager on your podcast? Because honestly I can’t do this by myself, so I need a manager to help me”.   Listen to this week's episode to hear my answers!   For full show notes, links and resources mentioned visit: https://growmysalonbusiness.com/podcast/140/   Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated!  They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast. I also love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast!  Just click here to review, scroll to the bottom, tap “Ratings and Reviews” tap to rate with 5 stars and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favourite part of the podcast is. Thank you for your support! And finally, don’t forget to subscribe to the show to get automatic updates. Got a question you want answered on the podcast? DM me your question over on Instagram or just come on over to connect at: https://www.instagram.com/growmysalonbusiness/     Free Management Masterclass On May 23rd I will be presenting a free online ‘Salon Management Masterclass’.   If you would like to register for this 1-hour online masterclass Click here for times in your area and to register.    Free Download I have put together another freebie just for you! The Salon Management Checklist allows you to mark off what you currently have in place in your business so that you can identify where there are opportunities for you to improve. Click here to download the Salon Management Checklist.      

All the changes that have taken place over the past two years have forced many of us to rethink our work/life balance, and have brought issues around mental health and burnout into greater focus. My guest today is Ashleigh Hodges, a young woman who has built up a well-deserved reputation in the UK hairdressing industry, not only for being very talented at doing hair but also for being an exceptionally nice person in the process.In today’s podcast we discuss:- The imbalance of representation of women in the industry - Mental health and dealing with burnout- The secret to being successful…And lots more!   In this Episode:   [03:03] The many professional hats that Ashleigh wears.  [05:38] An explanation of what the Fellowship for British Hairdressing is, and what Ashleigh’s role as its chancellor entails.  [09:24] How HAIRDOTCOM Art Team came into being, and what their offerings include. [14:36] The process Ashleigh went through to make her life more sustainable.  [19:54] Similarities and differences between the business models of the two salons she works at.  [21:54] Why Ashleigh believes the salon suite model has become so popular.   [27:18] Ashleigh shares her thoughts on the gender inequalities that are still prevalent in our society, and how they are shifting.  [32:17] Challenges that Ashleigh has faced as a woman in the hairdressing industry, and the work that she is doing to eliminate these hurdles.   [43:41] Burnout that Ashleigh experienced, and the mental health journey that this catalyzed for her.  [46:04] The choice that each of us have to make everyday with regard to our mental health.  [48:01] How Ashleigh has changed her life over the past few years.  [50:03] Factors that contributed to the mental breakdown that Ashleigh experienced. [53:37] Some of the biggest lessons that Ashleigh learned about herself since her breakdown.  [56:05] Ashleigh’s relationship with social media.  [1:00:45] Work hard and be nice; why Ashleigh sees these factors as the keys to success.    Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated!  They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast.  I also love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast! Just click here to review, scroll to the bottom, tap “Ratings and Reviews” tap to rate with 5 stars and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favourite part of the podcast is. Thank you for your support! Special thanks to Ashleigh for sharing her insights with me for this week’s episode. Until next time! Antony   Links and Resources:   Grow My Salon Business  Website | Facebook | Instagram Ashleigh Hodges LinkedIn | Instagram | Facebook Fellowship for British Hairdressing Website | Instagram HAIRDOTCOM Art Team Website | Instagram  

My guests on today's Podcast are returning guests to the show: Filipe Santos and David Brodsky, who are New Jersey based Salon owners.   In the previous conversation I had with them, we talked about their growing salon business and the success of their business model. If you didn’t catch that episode, it’s number 112, so you can go back and check it out. During the episode, Filipe and David spoke about how they first met in recovery, and on the back of that comment, we decided it would be a great idea to devote an episode to talk about their journey with addiction.  This episode is their story, it’s a very personal story full of laughs and honesty and a genuine love of life and of each other. Their journey is an inspiring example of what’s possible, and if it helps just one person, then we have achieved what we set out to.   In this episode we discuss: Their journey into drugs as teenagers Defining moments on their journey The turning points where they knew they had to change … The importance of the narcotics anonymous support  And lots more!   In this Episode: [04:20] Growth that David and Filipe’s business has experienced since our previous conversation.  [09:58] David explains why he and Filipe have chosen to tell their story of addiction on a public platform like this podcast. [11:54] What drove David and Filipe to the world of drugs, and how their problem with addiction escalated over the years.  [21:41] The disease of addiction; what this concept looks like in practice.   [24:31] Prevalence of drugs in the service industry, and some reasons why this could be the case.   [29:46] Circumstances under which Filipe’s son came into the world.     [35:08] The lowest point in David’s life, and why he and Filipe now have a zero-tolerance policy for all addictive substances.  [40:43] Why it is so important to have a support system and to stay away from temptations as a recovering drug addict. [42:29] How Filipe felt during the few years before he got clean, and how that contrasts with how he feels now. [51:53] David explains what the very difficult process of coming clean was like for him. [58:26] Why Filipe agrees with the legalisation or decriminalisation of weed.  [1:02:01] Discretion that David and Filipe exercise when it comes to hiring staff for their salons, and the support and resources that they provide to employees who are struggling with addiction..  [1:15:05] How the sharing of their story has had positive impacts on David and Filipe’s businesses. [1:17:48] The near jail experience Filipe had after getting clean. [1:24:17] Why David and Filipe wouldn’t change any part of their history.   Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated!  They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast.  I also love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast! Just click here to review, scroll to the bottom, tap “Ratings and Reviews” tap to rate with 5 stars and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favourite part of the podcast is. Thank you for your support! Special thanks to David and Filipe for sharing their story with me for this week’s episode. Until next time! Antony   Links and Resources:   Grow My Salon Business  Website | Facebook | Instagram | Episode 112 Filipe Santos Instagram   David Brodsky Instagram | Website   Gang Gang EDU Website

Like many of you, I will sometimes spend time scrolling through Instagram and occasionally a salon design will stop me in my tracks…    This is the case with Salon Ruggeri based in NYC. Every time I see an image they have posted, it’s always of a beautifully put together and very stylish salon space that breaks the cookie-cutter salon design mould and gives you a peek into the world and the style of the salon owners.    It always makes me want to just go and hang out there because I know it will be a great experience and a luxury treat for the senses, as well as great hair!   So my guest on today's Podcast is Greg Ruggeri and his husband Craig Longhurst from Salon Ruggeri in New York.   In this episode we discuss: The client experience The importance of attention to detail The meaning of style   And so much more!       In this Episode:   [02:39] A brief overview of what Greg and Craig’s joint journey in the salon industry has looked like to date.   [04:05] Greg shares what motivated him to become a hairdresser while he was still in school.  [09:14] How Craig and Greg made their first salon, which was based in Sydney, stand out. [11:32] Factors which drove Greg and Craig to move from Sydney to New York in 2010.  [18:41] Creative methods that Craig and Greg used to build up their client base in New York.  [24:40] The award Greg received during his first year in New York, and the growth that Salon Ruggeri experienced over the months that followed.  [30:23] Why Greg chose to bring injectables into the salon.  [33:31] Craig’s approach to designing a salon. [39:42] Why everything in Greg and Craig’s third salon was for sale. [42:13] The look and feel of the current Salon Ruggeri space.  [45:12] Greg explains why he decided to further his trichology education when the COVID-19 pandemic began. [49:52] Emotional unloading that commonly occurs in a salon setting, and how Greg has gone the extra mile to provide his clients with support.  [53:22] Mixed feelings that Greg has towards social media.   [56:35] How Craig and Greg define style.  [59:08] Greg and Craig share their thoughts on the salon suite model.     Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated!  They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast.  I also love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast! Just click here to review, scroll to the bottom, tap “Ratings and Reviews” tap to rate with 5 stars and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favourite part of the podcast is. Thank you for your support! Special thanks to Greg and Craig for sharing their story with me for this week’s episode. Until next time! Antony   Links and Resources:   Grow My Salon Business    Website | Facebook | Instagram   Salon Ruggeri   Website | Facebook | Instagram  

Many people open a salon with a dream to grow it into a big business. Unfortunately, only very few achieve that dream.  In today's hairdressing industry there has been a growth in the independent stylist. The salon suite, The booth renter. The freelancer. The business unit of 1. But that business model certainly isn’t for everyone. You can still build a brand, create a career path, and offer training and benefits and an amazing workplace culture that gives people a place to belong that is bigger than just them. My guest on today's podcast has done that and so much more. He is David Wagner; hair stylist, artist, entrepreneur, educator, author and founder and owner of JUUT Salons.   In today’s episode we discuss: What it takes to build a successful salon brand The meaning of being a ‘day maker’ Creating salon culture  The Covid impact …   And so much more!   In this Episode: [03:13] David shares an overview of his journey from one of the very first Horst Rechelbacher scholars to the founder and CEO of Juut Salonspa. [12:45] How David transformed a last-place salon into a first-place salon.  [15:02] The serendipitous moment that David decided to open his own salon, and the growth that his business experienced in its first 3 years. [17:05] Why David recommends either having one salon or more than two, and growing through acquisition rather than building from the ground up.  [23:34] The key to successfully running salons across multiple states.  [27:24] David shares the experiences which inspired Daymaker Movement, and his book, Life As a Daymaker. [36:36] What David has learned about the value that the hairdressing professional brings to people’s lives.  [41:22] How David created (and maintains) a thriving employee-based culture in his salons.   [55:03] Why David refers to his salons as a collection rather than a chain.  [57:14] The percentage of revenue that David considers to be a good profit (and why this has gone down over time). [1:01:11] David’s suggestion for measuring retail sales.  [1:04:10] An overview of the payment structure at Juut.  [1:06:05] David shares his thoughts on the evolution of the salon suite model.  [1:09:57] The impact that the Covid-19 pandemic has had on David’s business. [1:14:44] What David believes to be his greatest strengths, the lesson that he would like to pass onto future generations of hair stylists, and what he wishes he was better at. [1:21:43] Traits that David believes make for a good leader.   Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated!  They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast.  I also love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast! Just click here to review, scroll to the bottom, tap “Ratings and Reviews” tap to rate with 5 stars and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favourite part of the podcast is. Thank you for your support! Special thanks to David for sharing his insights with me for this week’s episode. Until next time! Antony   Links and Resources: Grow My Salon Business  Website | Facebook | Instagram Juut Salonspa Website | Instagram | Facebook David Wagner  LinkedIn | Instagram Daymaker Movement Website | Facebook | Twitter | Podcast Life As a Daymaker Book

Every relationship that you develop with a client starts with a consultation, and there are many different ways a consultation can be done.   I know hairdressers that take up to 30 minutes to do an in-depth thorough consultation, while others say something like, “So what are we doing today?” to a fully gowned-up client with dripping wet hair a split second before they start cutting.    The way you begin your consultations (with both new and returning clients) either opens up possibilities and opportunities, or it shuts them down.    Tune in today to hear my advice on how to conduct a very important part of your business!      In this Episode:   [03:32] Some of the many variables that are at play during a consultation. [05:42] How you should approach situations where you are running late, and how to approach situations where your client is running late. [06:45] Why your personal appearance matters during a consultation session. [07:25] The enormous power of a smile and good manners. [11:38] How you can use body language and eye contact to make clients feel more comfortable. [13:18] A general question to help you improve the question that you ask at the beginning of a consultation. [17:23] Examples of questions that I would and would not recommend asking a new client during a consultation. [22:10] The importance of listening to your clients, and being honest with them.   [25:14] Why I suggest avoiding technical jargon, and some approaches you can use to get your point across instead. [26:13] How to handle consultations with returning clients.   Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated!  They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast. They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast. I also love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast!  Just click here to review, scroll to the bottom, tap “Ratings and Reviews” tap to rate with 5 stars and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favourite part of the podcast is. Thank you for your support! And finally, don’t forget to subscribe to the show to get automatic updates. Got a question you want answered on the podcast? DM me your question over on Instagram or just come on over to connect at: https://www.instagram.com/growmysalonbusiness/ Until next time! Antony   Links and Resources:   Grow My Salon Business  Website | Facebook | Instagram    Super Stylist Book  

My guest on today's Podcast is Jason Crozier, salon stylist, editorial stylist and the founder and Director of CrozNest Creative Agency in London.  CrozNest helps salon businesses gain traction by providing digital marketing services and curated content packages for social media. On this episode we discuss: The benefits of using some curated content on your Instagram feed The relevance of trend reports The ever-evolving role of social media in your business   And lots more!   In this Episode: [02:56] Jason shares where his journey as a creative professional began, and how his career has evolved over the years. [12:39] How Jason’s digital agency, CrozNest, has been bridging the gap between hairdressing and fashion for the past 11 years. [15:35] What CrozNest’s curated content packages consist of, and how they elevate the social media platforms of the salon and fashion businesses that utilize them.  [18:20] Jason explains how he and his team create their content packages. [27:55] The different package options that CrozNest offers to their clients, and the costs associated with each one. [31:53] Social media platforms that CrozNest’s packages are geared towards. [33:48] Changes to their business model that CrozNest is in the process of implementing. [35:19] How CrozNest makes sure that their content is relevant across the world. [37:41] Value that the CrozNest’s social media content planner (which can be downloaded for free from their website) provides to salon and fashion businesses. [39:24] What you can expect to learn from the trend reports (another free downloadable resource) that CrozNest releases seasonally.  [45:30] How to make your salon’s Instagram profile stand out from the rest.  [49:34] Jason’s recommendations for managing a business Instagram account.   [52:21] Advice on writing copy for Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter.     Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated!  They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast.  I also love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast! Just click here to review, scroll to the bottom, tap “Ratings and Reviews” tap to rate with 5 stars and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favourite part of the podcast is. Thank you for your support! Special thanks to Jason for sharing his insights with me for this week’s episode. Until next time! Antony   Links and Resources: Grow My Salon Business  Website | Facebook | Instagram   CrozNest Creative Agency Website | Instagram | Facebook | LinkedIn | Linktree   Jason Crozier Instagram | LinkedIn

I always think it’s important to dream. To want a better life for yourself and your family and importantly to have the courage and the grit to step into the unknown and see where it leads you. My guest on today's Podcast is one such person, her name is Sally Rogerson and her hairdressing journey started out in a small town in the north of England and after a fascinating and varied career 30 years later she is the proud owner of SR Academy which is a hairdressing education company based in Scottsdale Arizona. In today’s episode we discuss: Sally's hairdressing journey and the lessons she’s learnt along the way. Life-changing moments… and… How education is changing And lots more!   In this Episode: [00:55] Learn about my next guest, Sally Rogerson.  [02:11] Sally shares a bit about her backstory and how she got involved in hair.  [05:02] Does she miss anything about her younger years?  [05:53] Was she always focused on the education piece?  [07:03] What was the transition from London to L.A. like?  [08:29] Has she ever considered having a salon of her own?  [09:34] Was there one particular moment that pushed her to create her education business?  [14:20] Where does her comfort with change come from?  [17:55] Sally retells a story from her early days in the United States.  [21:37] Why Scottsdale?  [24:59] Learn about SR Academy.  [28:20] What is it that makes a good teacher in cosmetology?  [32:47] How can you tell if someone will be a good hairdresser?  [34:53] The ways her view of fashion and cosmetology has changed through the years.  [38:44] How social media has impacted her business and career.  [42:16] What influence has social media had on education overall? [44:51] In what ways will the switch toward freelancing change the education space?  [50:25] Sally’s insights on apprenticeship versus beauty school.  [55:55] One of the biggest struggles in the industry is that people finish school and then quit the work.  [56:46] Why Sally wishes she was better at the business part.  [58:42] Connect with Sally.  [59:56] Sally’s final words for everyone in the industry.    Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated!  They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast.  I also love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast! Just click here to review, scroll to the bottom, tap “Ratings and Reviews” tap to rate with 5 stars and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favourite part of the podcast is. Thank you for your support! Special thanks to Sally for sharing her insights with me for this week’s episode. Until next time! Antony   Links and Resources: Grow My Salon Business  Website | Facebook | Instagram Sally Rogerson Website | Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | Email    SR Academy Website | Instagram   Thrive Sessions Hair Show

Many hairdressers aspire to be educators. And over the last few years, due to the rapid growth in social media, and more recently with a little help from Covid, there has been an explosion of people jumping online and getting into the educator space. Some of them are obviously a lot better than others. So, what is it that sets educators apart? And what are the skills and mindset that a salon stylist needs to develop if they want to succeed as an educator?    My guest on today's Podcast is Chris Moody; hairdresser and educators’ educator.     In today’s podcast we discuss: What makes a good teacher The biggest mistake that educators make How education is changing How we need to ‘learn to learn’ in the online space…   And lots more!     In this Episode:   [02:33] Chris’s two different roles within the salon industry.   [04:28] Reasons that Chris loves working behind the chair, which he has been doing since he was 16 years old.  [07:55] Where Chris’s interest in becoming an educator originated, and what his journey in this field has looked like to date.   [13:06] Chris’s thoughts on the evolution in online education that has taken place since the pandemic began. [16:38] How to determine whether a teacher has been successful in educating their students.  [18:08] An explanation of what ChrisCamp is, and what you can expect to learn as an attendee. [19:36] The biggest mistake that educators make, according to Chris.  [22:33] Some of the key characteristics that make a great teacher.   [26:51] Pros and cons of using social media for educational purposes.   [31:26] What Chris believes education is going to look like in the future.  [35:00] Strategies to make online sessions more immersive and enjoyable for participants.  [42:29] Chris’s biggest frustrations with his fellow educators.  [45:09] Examples of how to alter your teaching approach to suit different generations of students, and three things that you should make clear to your students before any lesson. [47:38] Impacts of social media on the education sector.  [49:18] A concern that Chris has about the increase of independent salons.  [51:27] What Chris wishes he was better at, and the self improvement work he is currently doing.    Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated!  They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast.  I also love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast! Just click here to review, scroll to the bottom, tap “Ratings and Reviews” tap to rate with 5 stars and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favourite part of the podcast is. Thank you for your support! Special thanks to Chris for sharing his insights with me for this week’s episode. Until next time! Antony   Links and Resources:   Grow My Salon Business  Website | Facebook | Instagram Chris Moody Website | Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | TikTok   ChrisCamp Website

In today’s episode I am going to be answering a question which was asked by a listener; “How can I get my team to talk about and recommend professional take-home products to their clients?”  I have a complete module on this very topic in my online Super Stylist course so I will be drawing from that content in this episode. The focus will be on highlighting the typical objections that hairdressers have about recommending retail products to clients, and how salon owners can deal with these.    In today’s podcast we will discuss: Whose job is it to recommend take-home products? What are the 14 main objections that hairstylists typically have? What are the biggest fears stylists have when recommending take home?   And lots more!   In this Episode: [01:34] The ineffective approach that many salon owners use when trying to get their hairdressers to recommend take-home products.  [03:28] Why a full hairdressing service offering should include product recommendations.   [05:52] Profitability of the retail side of a salon.  [10:14] Learning that is required in order for hairdressers to be able to confidently recommend take-home products. [11:47] Experiences which can deter hairdressers from recommending products, and advice for any hairdressers listening who have had these experiences.  [12:57] The number one reason (probably) that hairdressers don’t recommend retail products to customers. [13:51] How to enhance your product knowledge as a hairdresser.  [14:50] The mindset shift that is required for some hairdressers to begin recommending products.  [16:43] Being a helpful professional versus a pushy salesperson.  [19:33] How a salon’s culture influences a hairdressers’ level of comfort when it comes to recommending retail products.  [21:17] Why it should make no difference to you, as a hairdresser, whether you are paid a commission for take-home sales or not. [23:16] Reasons that the continuous growth of online sales shouldn’t prevent hairdressers from recommending take-home products to clients.  [25:36] Why, “I don’t have time,” is not a valid excuse for not recommending retail products. [26:58] A common fear that hairdressers have around recommending products, and suggestions for how to overcome it. [31:52] Why you shouldn’t make assumptions about how much your clients will be willing to pay for retail products.  Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated!  They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast.  I also love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast! Just click here to review, scroll to the bottom, tap “Ratings and Reviews” tap to rate with 5 stars and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favourite part of the podcast is. Thank you for your support! Until next time! Antony   Links and Resources: Grow My Salon Business  Website | Facebook | Instagram  

I am frequently asked questions about salon pricing and so I recently did a podcast episode where I spoke on the pricing of salon services (it was episode 127 if you haven’t already checked it out).   Today's episode is also about pricing, and I have not one but two guests on the show. They are husband and wife, Mick and Kylie Dwyer, who are former salon owners and educators. They have written a book, and developed an app and an online course all on the topic of pricing!     So in this episode, we are going to go much deeper into the pricing issue   In today’s episode we discuss: How to price your salon services The challenges that hairdressers have when it comes to raising prices Profit margins in salons today…   And lots more!       In this Episode:   [02:00] An overview of the careers of today’s husband and wife team, Kylie and Mick Dwyer. [04:07] Mick explains what inspired him to write his book, Pricing Your Services, what the writing process looked like, and what you can expect to learn from reading it.  [10:44] The app and online course that Kylie and Mick developed which focuses on helping people price their services.  [16:53] What Mick sees as the biggest mistake that people make when deciding on their prices (and some other, secondary mistakes).   [21:15] Why the size and shape of your business is irrelevant when it comes to pricing your services. [24:51] The average profit margin of the majority of salons. [26:51] Salon characteristics that Mick has recognized as being responsible for an above average profit margin.  [29:51] Why Mick thinks it’s a good idea to treat the retail side of your salon business as a separate entity.  [31:06] Mick explains the concept that he refers to as ‘seat time.’ [35:36] Pricing by gender; Mick’s opinion on this approach.  [38:40] The tiered pricing strategy that Kylie and Mick advocate for.  [43:23] Why Mick recommends that salon owners implement regular, small price increases.   [47:08] Advice for dealing with rising inflation as a salon owner. [54:01] Snipt; Kylie and Mick’s exciting new app which is going to launch in early May!     Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated!  They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast.  I also love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast! Just click here to review, scroll to the bottom, tap “Ratings and Reviews” tap to rate with 5 stars and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favourite part of the podcast is. Thank you for your support! Special thanks to Kylie and Mick for sharing their insights with me for this week’s episode. Until next time! Antony   Links and Resources:   Grow My Salon Business  Website | Facebook | Instagram   Elite Hair Education Website | Instagram | Facebook   Pricing Your Services Website 

These are interesting and exciting times we are living in, and I’m not just talking about the last two years. The changes that are happening with consumer and employee expectations, lifestyle, technology and how people today want to live their lives today impacts on every area of what we do.  And in the hair and beauty business, I find that exciting as I see salon owners reinventing their business and questioning; what is the salon of the future? What role do salons have in the community today? And most importantly where are the opportunities? On today's podcast, we are talking to Benjamin Jay, co-owner of The Hair Loft salons and the With Love Collective in Chicago. In this episode we will discuss: The changing role of the hair salon in the community Creating a salon that also serves as an event space, a bar, a retail environment and a salon…  And lots more!   In this Episode:   [02:48] Ben shares a brief overview of his professional background, and what the past two years have looked like for him and his salons.  [05:40] An explanation of the With Love Collective concept which Ben has recently incorporated into his business.  [08:44] How the COVID-19 pandemic exposed the vulnerability of salon owners.  [10:38] Examples of the wide range of products that you can expect to find on the With Love Collective website, and Ben’s approach to curating this collection.   [14:18] Different retail relationships that the With Love Collective has with its stockists.  [18:23] How Ben creates a sense of community within and around his salons.   [20:53] Inspiration behind the name, With Love Collective. [22:56] What Ben has found beneficial about having two different salon brands i.e. With Love Collective and The Hair Loft.   [24:24] Ben’s experience as the second generation running The Hair Loft.   [26:26] How Ben’s social media-related goals have changed over time and the importance of this marketing method to his salons.   [28:36] Responses from clients that Ben has received regarding the changes he has made over the past few years.  [29:21] What Ben is going to emphasize during phase two of rolling out the brand changes he has made. [33:07] Ben’s thoughts on how to defend traditional salons.  [33:50] Trends that Ben has noticed are taking place in the salon industry (and many other industries) at the moment. [35:18] How Ben makes sure that his team are not negatively impacted by the changes that have been implemented.    Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated!  They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast.  I also love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast! Just click here to review, scroll to the bottom, tap “Ratings and Reviews” tap to rate with 5 stars and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favourite part of the podcast is. Thank you for your support! Special thanks to Ben for sharing his thoughts with me for this week’s episode. Until next time! Antony   Links and Resources: Grow My Salon Business  Website | Facebook | Instagram The Hair Loft Website | Twitter | Instagram With Love Collective Website | Instagram Ben Jay Twitter | Instagram

My guests on this episode have been on the show before. In fact, they were the very first guests I had, way back in March 2018! They are Robert and Mary Cromeans who have a salon business based in San Diego. Aside from our conversation in 2018 they were also part of a group podcast interview I did with them when Covid first reared its ugly head about two years ago…  Two years is a long time in business, especially in today's world, and Robert and Mary have never been afraid to change their business, so it is interesting to see how their salons and their thinking has evolved since we last spoke… In this episode we discuss: How their salon business has changed What flexibility looks like for them and their team  Positive things have come out of Covid for them And lots more! In this Episode: [04:15] What Robert and Mary’s lives looked like prior to the Covid-19 pandemic, and how they have drastically changed since.  [12:20] Challenges that Robert and Mary have experienced recently with regard to staff turnover. [14:19] The training model which has been instituted at the Cromeans’ new salon, The Cutting Room, and how its first 6 weeks in business have been.  [21:41] Culture that is being cultivated at The Cutting Room. [24:13] How Mary has elevated her game as a hairdresser, and the hands-on role that Robert plays in The Cutting Room.  [27:44] Putting some numbers to the Great Resignation concept.  [28:42] Flexibility that hairdressers are looking for, and how the Cromeans’ are adapting their salons to respond to these desires.  [37:17] Why virtual consultations are so valuable (in and out of pandemic times).  [40:40] Examples of how client requests have changed since the pandemic.  [43:26] The deskless, cash free system that the Cromeans’ have adopted in their salons.  [47:33] What hairdressers often don’t realize when they transition from being an employee to a freelancer.   [48:57] “Fewer clients, more services;” why Mary and Robert have continued with this model, despite Covid restrictions being lifted.  [54:20] The “Trifecta of Success” that the Cromeans’ aim to achieve in their salons.  [56:00] Retail elements of Robert and Mary’s business.  [58:18] Mary and Robert’s thoughts on at-home hairdressing services.  [1:02:12] Salon Scale; how it works and why it’s a must-have!    Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated!  They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast.  I also love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast! Just click here to review, scroll to the bottom, tap “Ratings and Reviews” tap to rate with 5 stars and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favourite part of the podcast is. Thank you for your support! Special thanks to Robert and Mary for sharing their insights with me for this week’s episode. Until next time! Antony   Links and Resources: Grow My Salon Business  Website | Facebook | Instagram Mary Cromeans  Instagram Robert Cromeans Instagram | Facebook Salons A Robert Cromeans Salon | The Cutting Room | Walk In Salon Scale Website