In this special anniversary episode of Beauty Business Matters, Susan reflects on a year filled with inspiring stories and valuable insights from industry experts. The episode features highlights from interviews with notable guests such as Arif Isikgun, who shares his transformative journey in the beauty industry, and Josh Yardley, whose first client was Princess Diana. Listeners will also hear from Pauls Clipsham about the resilience of salon owners during the pandemic, and Mark Maloney discusses the evolution of Professional Beauty. The episode culminates with a look back at the very first guest, Ronan Percival from Phorest Software, who emphasises the importance of passion and innovation in business. KEY TAKEAWAYS Diverse Journeys in the Beauty Industry: Each guest shared unique experiences and paths within the beauty industry, highlighting that there are many ways to succeed and grow, whether through retail, education, or entrepreneurship. Resilience During Challenges: The impact of the pandemic was a common theme, with many guests discussing how they adapted and found opportunities for growth during difficult times, emphasising the importance of resilience in the beauty business. Importance of Customer Relationships: Building strong relationships with clients is crucial in the beauty industry. The bond formed between beauty therapists and clients is unique and essential for business success. BEST MOMENTS "I fell in love with the art of transformation. Beauty products make you feel a certain way, and I wanted to find natural solutions instead of going down the route of medication." - Arif "My first ever customer was a new fancy club called the Harbour Club in Chelsea, and Princess Diana was the first number one member. That gave me a little bit of leverage." - Josh "Lockdown was so tough for so many people. And yet, for me, it's the best thing that ever happened. It gave me time to reflect and magnified my business direction." - Paula "At its best, the salon sector has a real care about their customers and their teams, combined with savvy business practices. We need to shout that more." - Mark "If you're in love with the business, you're going to be more enthusiastic and willing to improve it. That energy attracts customers and motivates your team." - Ronan HOST BIO Susan Routledge is a distinguished figure in the beauty industry with over 38 years of experience. As a multi-award-winning salon owner and international business consultant, she's recognized among the top UK industry influencers for her passion and dedication.  Known for her down-to-earth, light-hearted approach, Susan is an international speaker and established awards judge. She founded the exclusive Beauty Directors Club, a global membership community for salon, clinic, and spa owners, offering business resources and multi-expert advice. Susan also created the online "Salon Success Freedom" program to help beauty businesses thrive. Susan founded and has grown her clinic of 36 years in Co. Durham into the largest independent beauty salon in Northeast England. She is the creator of the trademarked STABLE business formula and author of "The Little Book of Client Retention" and the world's No. 1 bestsellers "Beauty And the Best" 1 and 2.  She serves on the Professional Board for BABTAC, helping to represent and raise industry standards, and on the advisory board for the prestigious PHAB Service Stars. Susan's expertise continues to shape and elevate the beauty industry worldwide. USEFUL LINKS https://susanroutledge.com https://www.instagram.com/susan_routledge/ https://www.tiktok.com/@beautybusinessmatters https://marketing.susanroutledge.com/beauty-and-the-best-chapters This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/