In this reflection episode, Natasha sits down with Nicola, Maria, and Belli, who have collectively spent over 25 years in the beauty industry. They share their journey from opening their first salon at age 20 to establishing their own training academy, Hampson Training, and launching their Japanese Head Spa Co brand globally. The guests discuss the dramatic evolution of the industry, from the simplicity of "bread and butter" treatments like manicures and waxing. KEY TAKEAWAYS 25+ Years of Industry Experience: The guests, Nicola, Maria, and Belly, are seasoned professionals, having been in the beauty industry for over 25 years and opening their first salon when they were just 20 years old. The Training Academy Was Born from Necessity: They established their training academy, Hampson Training, to solve the problem of staff often leaving once fully trained, noting that they were "paying fortunes". Industry Standards Must Be Qualified "to the Hilt": The beauty industry has become much more complex, shifting from simple "bread and butter" treatments like waxing to high-end, advanced aesthetics. The "Train Your Competition" Philosophy: Their unique philosophy promotes "training your competition," as they genuinely believe there is enough business for everyone and that raising the overall quality of the industry is essential to prevent customers from having poor experiences that might give the sector a "bad name." Essential Safety is a Core Curriculum: Hampson Training includes vital, often-overlooked content in their online theory, with the very first section dedicated to critical safety and professional topics, starting with First Aid in a Salon. BEST MOMENTS "We decided to have a base where we could actually sort of get everyone to come to us instead." "We were paying fortunes to get these staff members trained up... and then, you know, people would just up and leave as soon as they're trained." "You need to be at the forefront, you need to be qualified to the hilt... because the clients want more." "Invest in your education for sure, invest in it because it will catapult you into the industry, but it will also gain you that following because you'll be knowledgeable. Knowledge is key here." "We genuinely believe that you will not get that education anywhere else in any other training... first and foremost, any theory that they do is like the first section is first aid in a salon." TO CONNECT WITH YOUR GUESTS https://hampsontraining.co.uk/  https://www.instagram.com/hampson_training/  OUR LINKS www.exquisitesalon.co https://www.instagram.com/exquisite1hbs/ HOST BIO Natasha is a seasoned hairdresser with over 14 years of experience in the beauty industry, renowned for her passion, skill, and dedication to her craft. Specializing in creating personalized, stunning styles, she has worked with clients of all hair types, consistently earning a reputation for boosting confidence and empowering individuals through their hair transformations. Natasha’s approach combines creativity with precision, ensuring each client feels valued and understood. Natasha looks to share insights from the world of hairstyling, creativity, and inspiration, alongside real conversations and meaningful discussions This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/