I’ve never done an episode solely about coaching before, but as more salon owners than ever are either having a coach or wanting to become a coach, I think it’s about time.
Coaching has been one of the biggest game-changers in my own career and in the lives of hundreds of salon owners I’ve worked with across more than 14 countries. Yet for many, it’s still a bit of a mystery.
In this episode, I unpack what coaching is (and what it isn’t), how it’s different from mentoring, consulting, and teaching, and why it can accelerate your results in ways that books and courses alone can’t. I share stories from my own journey, both as a coach and as someone who’s been coached, and the qualities I believe you should look for (and avoid) when hiring one.
If you’ve been quietly wondering whether coaching might be the right next step for you, this conversation will give you the clarity, confidence, and practical insight you need to decide. And yes, I’ll tell you exactly how you can work with me before my prices go up later this year.
IN THIS EPISODE:
[02:19] Coaching’s rise in the salon industry
[06:55] The common thread between salon owners who seek coaching
[09:41] How coaching brings clarity, confidence, and profit
[11:02] What coaching is, and what it isn’t
[12:22] How my experience combines mentoring and coaching
[12:36] What to look for when hiring a coach
[14:12] What to avoid in a coach
[15:58] How I help my coaching clients grow profit without extra stress
[17:38] Why you don’t need to figure it all out on your own
Want MORE to help you GROW?
📚 Check out our Bestselling GROW Books https://growmysalonbusiness.com/books/
🆘 Management overwhelm!? Download our free checklist! This checklist will help you get clarity on where you're at https://growmysalonbusiness.com/management-checklist/
RATINGS + REVIEWS
🙏Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated!
They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast.
👉 Here's what you do:
- On your phone, Click here (Read steps below first)
- Scroll down to 'Ratings & Reviews'
- Tap on the empty purple stars and rate 5 stars
- Click on ‘Write a Review’ I love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast! Thank you for your support! 🙏
Until next time!
Antony
RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
👉 Head here to find out more about coaching with Antony
👉 FOLLOW US!
Have you noticed that every second hairdresser you talk to these days seems to have been diagnosed with ADHD?
That’s why this week I’ve invited Skye Waterson, a former academic turned ADHD coach and founder of ‘Unconventional Organisation’ onto the podcast to give us a proper crash course in understanding ADHD.
Skye shares actionable tips that salon owners and stylists can implement immediately, whether you're trying to support a team member with ADHD or manage your own symptoms while running a successful business.
Whether you've been diagnosed with ADHD yourself, suspect you might have it, or you've got team members who do, this conversation is essential.
IN THIS EPISODE:
[00:00] Welcome and introduction to ADHD in the salon industry
[03:30] What causes ADHD and the genetic component
[10:22] What it feels like to have ADHD - Skye's description
[12:29] How dopamine works differently in ADHD brains
[19:07] Main ADHD struggles in the workplace
[21:24] Tips for employers and employees with ADHD
[24:37] Structure vs. rigidity in salon environments
[26:13] The gifts and strengths of having ADHD
[33:00] Time blindness and practical salon management tips
[34:40] Sensory environments - busy salons and ADHD
[37:33] The link between ADHD and anxiety
[39:17] What working with an ADHD coach looks like
Want MORE to help you GROW?
📚 Check out our Bestselling GROW Books https://growmysalonbusiness.com/books/
🆘 Management overwhelm!? Download our free checklist! This checklist will help you get clarity on where you're at https://growmysalonbusiness.com/management-checklist/
RATINGS + REVIEWS
🙏Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated!
They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast.
👉 Here's what you do:
- On your phone, Click here (Read steps below first)
- Scroll down to 'Ratings & Reviews'
- Tap on the empty purple stars and rate 5 stars
- Click on ‘Write a Review’ I love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast! Thank you for your support! 🙏
Until next time!
Antony
RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
The 2 Minute Focus Formula™ - a tool to help ADHD brains cut through mental clutter and actually get started - Get it here
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👉 FOLLOW SKYE WATERSON!
This week, I’m picking up where Episode 304 left off, diving deeper into the practical strategies that successful salon owners use to build strong teams, great cultures, and profitable businesses.
If you've ever asked yourself, "Why can't I find good people?" or "Why won't my team step up?" this episode is for you. I'm walking you through the exact traits, systems, and standards that top-performing salons share from how they hire, to how they train, to how they reward results.
These aren’t theories. These are lessons from real salons, doing real numbers, with real six-figure stylists. And the good news? You can implement them too.
IN THIS EPISODE:
[00:00] Welcome and recap of the Leadership Crisis and its impact
[01:28] Why true leadership is in short supply
[04:06] Point 1: Strong foundations and non-negotiables
[06:29] Point 2: Hire for attitude and ambition
[08:54] Point 3: Build systems that support your culture
[11:53] Point 4: Treat your team as your second client
[13:14] Point 5: Create financial security through smart pay systems
[14:26] Point 6: Set performance standards and accountability
[15:08] The most important word: implementation
[15:26] 6 steps to start improving your culture today
[19:19] The final question every salon owner needs to ask
Want MORE to help you GROW?
📚 Check out our Bestselling GROW Books https://growmysalonbusiness.com/books/
🆘 Management overwhelm!? Download our free checklist! This checklist will help you get clarity on where you're at https://growmysalonbusiness.com/management-checklist/
RATINGS + REVIEWS
🙏Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated!
They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast.
👉 Here's what you do:
- On your phone, Click here (Read steps below first)
- Scroll down to 'Ratings & Reviews'
- Tap on the empty purple stars and rate 5 stars
- Click on ‘Write a Review’ I love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast! Thank you for your support! 🙏
Until next time!
Antony
RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
If you’d like to dive deeper into what great salon leadership looks like in practice, I’ve put together a playlist of previous episodes where I talk to salon owners who are walking the talk.
These are the leaders who are building strong cultures, developing high-performing teams, and leading with vision and purpose.
Whether you're after inspiration or practical strategies, these episodes are a masterclass in modern salon leadership. Check out the recommended episodes below. 👇
LEADERSHIP PLAYLIST:
Ep 285 Meagan McCormack https://growmysalonbusiness.com/podcast/285/
Ep 252 Hellen Ward https://growmysalonbusiness.com/podcast/252/
Ep 244 Eric Fisher https://growmysalonbusiness.com/podcast/244/
Ep 232 Martha Lynn Kale https://growmysalonbusiness.com/podcast/232/
Ep 203 Michael Van Clarke https://growmysalonbusiness.com/podcast/203/
Ep 176 Pedro Inchenko https://growmysalonbusiness.com/podcast/176/
Ep 141 Van Council https://growmysalonbusiness.com/podcast/141/
Ep 136 David Wagner https://growmysalonbusiness.com/podcast/136/
Ep 123 Oscar Cullinan https://growmysalonbusiness.com/podcast/123/
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In this week’s episode, I’m joined by Sam Kendall, CEO of SalonIQ, one of the UK’s leading salon software companies. I always enjoy conversations with tech providers because they see real data, and that means real insights into what’s happening inside salons across the industry. Sam and I talk about AI, automation, online booking, the shift towards self-employment, and the surprising number of salons still not using salon management systems.
We also dive into the trends SalonIQ is seeing in average bill size, rebooking, client retention, and retail sales. Plus, we explore how software is helping drive efficiency, improve the guest experience, and even replace some front desk functions.
Whether you’re tech-savvy or still relying on your appointment book and pen, this episode is a must-listen for understanding how technology is shaping the future of the salon business.
IN THIS EPISODE:
[00:00] Intro and welcome - Meet Sam Kendall, CEO of SalonIQ
[03:12] What makes SalonIQ different
[10:57] Nearly 50% of salons still don’t use software!
[12:16] The online booking gap and what’s holding salons back
[15:08] Salon software and self-employment trends
[18:40] What’s stuck post-COVID: deposits, self-check-in, AI
[22:30] Is AI replacing your receptionist?
[25:18] What might salons look like by 2035?
[28:28] Trends in client retention, average bill, and retail
[30:59] Why retention is the biggest problem in the industry
[34:16] Retail: flatlining or full of potential?
[38:12] E-commerce: are salons really making it work?
[39:12] Frequency of visit, are we gaining ground?
[41:22] Where to find out more and connect with Sam
Want MORE to help you GROW?
📚 Check out our Bestselling GROW Books https://growmysalonbusiness.com/books/
🆘 Management overwhelm!? Download our free checklist! This checklist will help you get clarity on where you're at https://growmysalonbusiness.com/management-checklist/
RATINGS + REVIEWS
🙏Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated!
They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast.
👉 Here's what you do:
- On your phone, Click here (Read steps below first)
- Scroll down to 'Ratings & Reviews'
- Tap on the empty purple stars and rate 5 stars
- Click on ‘Write a Review’ I love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast! Thank you for your support! 🙏
Until next time!
Antony
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👉 FOLLOW SALON IQ!
In this episode, I’m diving into a conversation that might annoy some people, but it’s a conversation that needs to be had. We’ve got a leadership crisis in our industry. Not because people don’t care, but because too many salon owners don’t realise what they signed up for when they opened their doors. Leadership isn’t optional. It’s the job.
This episode is for every salon owner who wants their team to succeed but feels stuck, frustrated, or just plain exhausted. I’ll break down why so many stylists aren't earning what they could be and why that’s partially due to the leadership (or lack of it) they’re working under.
If you want a business that thrives and a team that sticks around, this one’s for you.
IN THIS EPISODE:
[00:00] Intro and recap of episode 291
[02:15] The leadership gap that’s hurting our industry
[03:01] Why poor leadership creates poor productivity and pay
[04:22] The difference between wanting to be paid more and earning more
[06:45] The uncomfortable truth: it is about money
[07:17] When the tail is wagging the dog, owners who’ve lost control
[09:59] What real leadership looks like in successful businesses
[11:42] Why people will leave and why that’s okay
[13:39] Leading by example (not micromanaging)
[15:30] Why we avoid leadership and why it’s still worth it
Want MORE to help you GROW?
📚 Check out our Bestselling GROW Books https://growmysalonbusiness.com/books/
🆘 Management overwhelm!? Download our free checklist! This checklist will help you get clarity on where you're at https://growmysalonbusiness.com/management-checklist/
RATINGS + REVIEWS
🙏Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated!
They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast.
👉 Here's what you do:
- On your phone, Click here (Read steps below first)
- Scroll down to 'Ratings & Reviews'
- Tap on the empty purple stars and rate 5 stars
- Click on ‘Write a Review’ I love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast! Thank you for your support! 🙏
Until next time!
Antony
RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
Episode 291 Why Do Some Stylists Earn So Much More Than Others?
The Super Stylist Course The step-by-step System for Maximising Productivity and Profits in Your Salon
👉 FOLLOW US!
In this episode, I sit down with long-time industry leader Keri Davis-Duffy, whose career as a salon owner and educator spans more than three decades. Keri shares the wisdom earned through real-life experience, leading employee-based salons in a state that turned compensation models on their head, navigating leadership challenges, building culture, and bouncing back from the inevitable setbacks every salon owner faces.
We talk candidly about staff walkouts, transitioning to hourly pay, creating flexible schedules for today’s workforce, and the crucial difference between being a great hairdresser and being a great business owner. Keri doesn’t sugarcoat it; salon ownership today is a different game entirely, but she offers grounded, inspiring advice for those brave enough to take it on. If you’re serious about building a business that lasts, you’ll want to soak up every minute of this conversation.
IN THIS EPISODE:
Want MORE to help you GROW?
📚 Check out our Bestselling GROW Books https://growmysalonbusiness.com/books/
🆘 Management overwhelm!? Download our free checklist! This checklist will help you get clarity on where you're at https://growmysalonbusiness.com/management-checklist/
RATINGS + REVIEWS
🙏Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated!
They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast.
👉 Here's what you do:
- On your phone, Click here (Read steps below first)
- Scroll down to 'Ratings & Reviews'
- Tap on the empty purple stars and rate 5 stars
- Click on ‘Write a Review’ I love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast! Thank you for your support! 🙏
Until next time!
Antony
RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
👉 FOLLOW US!
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👉 FOLLOW KERI DAVIS-DUFFY!
In today’s episode, I want to get real about something that many salon owners don’t like to hear… your team problems might not be about your team. They might actually be about you and your style of leadership.
We talk about the difference between being “the boss” and being a true leader. Because if you want loyalty, innovation, trust, and long-term commitment from your people, barking orders or crossing your fingers and hoping for the best won’t cut it.
This episode is about finding the balance, between control and chaos, between command and collaboration. It's about stepping into leadership so you can build a salon culture that attracts and retains the right people and brings your vision to life.
IN THIS EPISODE:
[01:33] Boss, manager, leader or just owner? What’s the difference?
[03:01] Why leadership matters more than ever in salons
[03:46] Is your team the problem… or is it you?
[04:52] The struggle of finding balance as a salon owner
[05:51] What real leadership looks like in practice
[06:41] The cultural cost of “boss-style” management
[07:26] How to begin your transition from boss to leader
[08:46] Celebrate wins and acknowledge progress
[09:35] Your team reflects your leadership
[10:00] What happens when you grow as a leader
Want MORE to help you GROW?
📚 Check out our Bestselling GROW Books https://growmysalonbusiness.com/books/
🆘 Management overwhelm!? Download our free checklist! This checklist will help you get clarity on where you're at https://growmysalonbusiness.com/management-checklist/
RATINGS + REVIEWS
🙏Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated!
They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast.
👉 Here's what you do:
- On your phone, Click here (Read steps below first)
- Scroll down to 'Ratings & Reviews'
- Tap on the empty purple stars and rate 5 stars
- Click on ‘Write a Review’ I love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast! Thank you for your support! 🙏
Until next time!
Antony
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In this episode, I sit down with Australian salon owner Luke Reynolds to talk about one of the most powerful drivers of salon success, which he believes is investing in the personal development of your people.
Luke shares how he's integrated monthly life coaching sessions, meditation practices, and even equine therapy into his team culture. It’s a fascinating conversation about building confidence, communication, and community in the workplace, and the profound effect this has on the day-to-day salon environment.
What I really loved about this chat is how naturally these initiatives grew into a cornerstone of Luke’s business, creating a safe, supportive, and high-functioning team that clients notice and appreciate. We also touch on the challenges younger team members face today and how personal development tools can help them not just survive, but thrive. If you're passionate about building a culture that retains great people, this is one you won’t want to miss.
IN THIS EPISODE:
[00:00] Intro and welcome
[00:48] Meet Luke Reynolds and his culture-first approach
[02:00] Why Luke brought in a life coach for his team
[05:00] Addressing anxiety and mental health in apprentices
[07:00] How personal growth improves communication and confidence
[10:35] Creating a safe, vulnerable space for learning
[13:00] Why Luke stays out of the sessions and what happens after
[16:35] When the life coach couldn’t come: Sound healing and meditation
[19:45] How these initiatives impact salon culture and performance
[21:30] A client’s unsolicited feedback that says it all
[27:11] Equine therapy as a team building day
[30:00] Trust, communication, and personal breakthroughs with horses
[37:10] What’s next for Luke’s team
[38:44] Wrapping up and plans for a follow-up episode
Want MORE to help you GROW?
📚 Check out our Bestselling GROW Books https://growmysalonbusiness.com/books/
🆘 Management overwhelm!? Download our free checklist! This checklist will help you get clarity on where you're at https://growmysalonbusiness.com/management-checklist/
RATINGS + REVIEWS
🙏Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated!
They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast.
👉 Here's what you do:
- On your phone, Click here (Read steps below first)
- Scroll down to 'Ratings & Reviews'
- Tap on the empty purple stars and rate 5 stars
- Click on ‘Write a Review’ I love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast! Thank you for your support! 🙏
Until next time!
Antony
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👉 FOLLOW LUKE REYNOLDS HAIRDRESSING!
👉 FOLLOW LUKE REYNOLDS!
Welcome to episode 300! It’s a milestone I’m incredibly proud of, and I want to thank you for being part of the journey. Whether you’re listening while walking the dog, doing the school run, or lifting weights at the gym, I’m grateful to have you here.
In this episode, I’m sharing the 10 timeless principles of salon money management. These aren’t fluffy ideas; they’re hard-won lessons from my own experience and from years of coaching salon owners around the world.
If you want to go beyond just “doing great hair” and actually run a profitable business, this one’s for you. Let’s make sense of the numbers and start building a business that works for you, not the other way around.
IN THIS EPISODE:
[00:00] Celebrating 300 episodes and listeners around the world
[02:22] Why timeless business principles still matter
[03:00] The hairdresser-to-business-owner journey
[04:02] Why financial literacy matters more than talent alone
[04:57] Principle 1: Revenue does not equal success; profit is the real goal
[05:55] Principle 2: Separate your business and personal finances
[06:38] Principle 3: Be careful who you take advice from
[07:16] Principle 4: Learn to love your numbers
[08:15] Principle 5: Focus on your core salon offering
[09:00] Principle 6: More money isn’t always the solution
[09:36] Principle 7: More clients don’t always mean more profit
[09:53] Principle 8: Invest in your business and personal growth
[10:16] Principle 9: Build an emergency fund, stuff happens
[11:00] Principle 10: Money is a game, learn to play it well
Want MORE to help you GROW?
📚 Check out our Bestselling GROW Books https://growmysalonbusiness.com/books/
🆘 Management overwhelm!? Download our free checklist! This checklist will help you get clarity on where you're at https://growmysalonbusiness.com/management-checklist/
RATINGS + REVIEWS
🙏Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated!
They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast.
👉 Here's what you do:
- On your phone, Click here (Read steps below first)
- Scroll down to 'Ratings & Reviews'
- Tap on the empty purple stars and rate 5 stars
- Click on ‘Write a Review’ I love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast! Thank you for your support! 🙏
Until next time!
Antony
RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
Free Masterclass - The Financially Savvy Salon Owner - Monday, June 23rd - Save your seat
The Money Course - You don't need to be a numbers genius. You just need the right steps in the right order to transform your salon’s financial future. Find out more
👉 FOLLOW US!
In this episode, I’m joined by Narad Kutowaroo, Creative Director for Unite Haircare in the UK, to talk all things Fashion Week and specifically, the Runway Ready bootcamp that gives hairdressers the opportunity to work backstage.
Narad shares how Runway Ready gives salon stylists real-world experience at London Fashion Week and beyond, and more importantly, how the skills learnt translate directly back into faster, better, and more confident salon work.
We also discuss why styling is more than just “hair up,” how to thrive under pressure, and the impact this kind of creative experience can have on your confidence, speed, and even client attraction. Whether you’re curious or committed, there’s something here for everyone.
IN THIS EPISODE:
[00:00] Welcome and introduction to Narad Kutowaroo and Unite’s Runway Ready bootcamp
[02:23] Origins of Runway Ready - from US concept to global expansion
[03:25] The inspiration behind opening doors to Fashion Week
[05:33] What to expect during the two-day bootcamp
[07:35] Who can enrol and what are the experience level requirements
[15:59] Experience levels - from new graduates to 30-year veterans
[22:13] Benefits for salon owners sending their teams
[32:38] The motivation and transformation of a Fashion Week experience
[35:23] Mix of salon employees and self-employed stylists
[39:03] Biggest misconceptions about editorial work and who is suited for this type of work
[44:22] How to find out more about Unite’s Runway Ready bootcamp and connect with Narad
Want MORE to help you GROW?
📚 Check out our Bestselling GROW Books https://growmysalonbusiness.com/books/
🆘Management overwhelm!? Download our free checklist! This checklist will help you get clarity on where you're at https://growmysalonbusiness.com/management-checklist/
RATINGS + REVIEWS
🙏Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated!
They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast.
👉 Here's what you do:
- On your phone, Click here (Read steps below first)
- Scroll down to 'Ratings & Reviews'
- Tap on the empty purple stars and rate 5 stars
- Click on ‘Write a Review’ I love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast! Thank you for your support! 🙏
Until next time!
Antony
RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
👉 Click here to find out more about Unite’s ‘Runway Ready Bootcamp’
To listen to a previous episode with Andrew Dale founder of Unite, head to Episode 097
👉 FOLLOW US!
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👉 FOLLOW LACEYS HAIR & BEAUTY!
👉 FOLLOW UNITE UK!
👉 FOLLOW NARAD KUTOWAROO!
In this episode, I’m sharing a real-life story from one of the salon owners in my online money course. She found herself heading into a cash flow crisis, not because she was doing something wrong, but because life happened. Staff resignations, injuries, and pre-booked leave collided to create a perfect storm of reduced income.
The good news? She saw it coming. And that’s the power of planning.
We walk through the strategies I shared with her, what to do, what to avoid, and most importantly, how to stay calm and proactive. Whether you’re in a financial squeeze or just want to bulletproof your business, this episode is packed with practical advice and a big reminder: the best way to survive a crisis is to see it coming and prepare before it hits.
IN THIS EPISODE:
[00:00] Introduction and today’s topic: managing a cash flow crisis
[00:55] Real-life scenario from a salon owner in the Money course
[04:57] Ideas to increase income before touching savings
[06:22] Strategies for short-term staffing solutions
[08:55] Reducing outgoings: where to trim the fat
[10:12] Hiring strategically: assistants and productivity
[14:41] 10 key lessons for navigating a cash flow crunch
[18:03] Free resources and upcoming Money course info
Want MORE to help you GROW?
📚 Check out our Bestselling GROW Books https://growmysalonbusiness.com/books/
🆘 Management overwhelm!? Download our free checklist! This checklist will help you get clarity on where you're at https://growmysalonbusiness.com/management-checklist/
RATINGS + REVIEWS
🙏Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated!
They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast.
👉 Here's what you do:
- On your phone, Click here (Read steps below first)
- Scroll down to 'Ratings & Reviews'
- Tap on the empty purple stars and rate 5 stars
- Click on ‘Write a Review’ I love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast! Thank you for your support! 🙏
Until next time!
Antony
RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
👉 How to Navigate a Path Through Difficult Financial Times - Free Video Training. Visit our Free Resources page and have the video and workbook sent straight to your inbox!
Online Money Course - Find out more!
👉 FOLLOW US!
In this episode, I’m joined by Phil Evans, the founder of Salon Guru, who specialises in websites and digital marketing for salons. It's been five years since Phil was last on the podcast, and during that time, the digital landscape has evolved significantly, especially when it comes to how Google drives traffic to your salon.
We dive deep into understanding Google Search, Google Profiles (formerly Google My Business), and how your salon website plays a vital role in converting online visitors into new clients. Phil shares real-world data and insights from hundreds of salons that will help you see where your new clients are really coming from, and spoiler alert, it’s probably not from where you think. Whether you're already getting traffic or want to boost your Google game, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.
IN THIS EPISODE:
[00:00] Intro + What’s Coming Up
Introducing the topic, and previewing the upcoming marketing course.
[01:31] The 5 Ways Clients Find Your Salon
Breaking down the key sources of new clients and why Google is more important than you think.
[04:00] Phil Evans on Google Search & Profiles
Phil explains the difference between Google Search and Google Profile, and why both are crucial for your salon’s visibility.
[15:21] How to Boost Your Google Rankings
A deep dive into SEO, Google Rank, and how to dominate search results with the right keywords and content.
[34:22] Your Website’s Job: Conversion
Why your salon website needs to do more than look good, and how to turn clicks into clients.
[44:00] Google Reviews, Ads, and Analytics
Getting and managing reviews, understanding when ads are worth it, and what metrics to track.
Want MORE to help you GROW?
📚 Check out our Bestselling GROW Books https://growmysalonbusiness.com/books/
🆘 Management overwhelm!? Download our free checklist! This checklist will help you get clarity on where you're at https://growmysalonbusiness.com/management-checklist/
RATINGS + REVIEWS
🙏Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated!
They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast.
👉 Here's what you do:
- On your phone, Click here (Read steps below first)
- Scroll down to 'Ratings & Reviews'
- Tap on the empty purple stars and rate 5 stars
- Click on ‘Write a Review’ I love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast! Thank you for your support! 🙏
Until next time!
Antony
RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
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Episode 039 - The Importance of Website Design and Digital Marketing with Phil Evans
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I know that the bulk of our listeners are not in the UK, but the changes happening to the UK hairdressing industry have been getting a lot of attention on social media, and as a result, I’ve had a lot of questions from hairdressers elsewhere.
So, in this week's episode, I talk with Toby Dicker, co-founder of the Salon Employers Association, to discuss the critical tax challenges facing the UK salon industry.
Following the recent march on Parliament by hairdressers protesting the unfair tax system, Toby provides a clear explanation of how VAT disproportionately impacts labour-intensive businesses like hair salons.
We explore the uneven playing field between employee-based salon businesses and self-employed models, and how this disparity threatens the future of training, apprenticeships, and business growth in our industry.
Toby shares insights from his work lobbying the government for change and the recent historic parliamentary debate on hairdressing. This conversation isn't just about numbers, it's about gaining respect for our profession and ensuring the continued creativity and excellence of British hairdressing.
IN THIS EPISODE:
[0:47] Introducing Toby Dicker and the Salon Employers Association
[4:03] Simple overview of the VAT tax system in the UK
[8:07] Explaining how the VAT system creates an uneven playing field
[11:36] Impact on recruitment and apprenticeships
[15:05] The disincentive to grow businesses due to the VAT threshold
[18:15] Possible solutions to level the playing field
[24:03] The concept of "disguised employment" explained
[31:50] How businesses avoid crossing the VAT threshold
[41:07] The historic parliamentary debate on hairdressing
[47:24] How salon owners can get involved in the campaign
Want MORE to help you GROW?
📚 Check out our Bestselling GROW Books https://growmysalonbusiness.com/books/
🆘 Management overwhelm!? Download our free checklist! This checklist will help you get clarity on where you're at https://growmysalonbusiness.com/management-checklist/
RATINGS + REVIEWS
🙏Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated!
They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast.
👉 Here's what you do:
- On your phone, Click here (Read steps below first)
- Scroll down to 'Ratings & Reviews'
- Tap on the empty purple stars and rate 5 stars
- Click on ‘Write a Review’ I love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast! Thank you for your support! 🙏
Until next time!
Antony
RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
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👉 FOLLOW TOBY DICKER - THE CHAPEL
👉 FOLLOW SALON EMPLOYERS ASSOCIATION
👉 FOLLOW BRITISH HAIR CONSORTIUM
You don't grow a business just by getting more clients.
You grow by keeping the ones you’ve already got. But so many salons are focused on acquiring new clients that they completely miss that the real problem is poor client retention.
In this episode, I talk about why client retention is the foundation of sustainable growth and how you’re probably bleeding opportunity by focusing too heavily on new client acquisition.
I share the reality of what the client retention figures are, why you should be tracking what they are in your salon and what simple shifts you can make this week to start plugging the holes in your business.
If you're serious about growing your salon, this is where to start.
IN THIS EPISODE:
[0:00] Amanda adds $20K/month without spending more on marketing
[1:38] How to make more money with what you already have
[1:58] The client life cycle: a powerful mindset shift
[3:27] The trend: salons focus on new clients instead of retention
[7:29] The three-part system for making every client count
[8:56] A simple action with dramatic results
[9:20] Case studies: Lucas and Clive boost revenue with rebooking
[11:02] This masterclass is for owners ready to build a high-performing team. FREE Masterclass Creating the Super Stylist: The Key to Boosting Productivity and Profits in Your Salon.’ Save your seat here
Want MORE to help you GROW?
📚 Check out our Bestselling GROW Books https://growmysalonbusiness.com/books/
🆘 Management overwhelm!? Download our free checklist! This checklist will help you get clarity on where you're at https://growmysalonbusiness.com/management-checklist/
RATINGS + REVIEWS
🙏Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated!
They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast.
👉 Here's what you do:
- On your phone, Click here (Read steps below first)
- Scroll down to 'Ratings & Reviews'
- Tap on the empty purple stars and rate 5 stars
- Click on ‘Write a Review’ I love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast! Thank you for your support! 🙏
Until next time!
Antony
RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
If you're serious about growing your salon, this is where to start.👇
FREE Masterclass Creating the Super Stylist: The Key to Boosting Productivity and Profits in Your Salon.’ Save your seat here
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Some people love data! But let's be honest and say that for most hairdressers, studying the numbers in their business is not their favourite pastime.
My Guest today is a returning Guest, Tom Bentley-Taylor, who, amongst other things, originally got the Salon Software brand Short Cuts established in the UK and is currently Managing Director at Vish in the UK.
Tom is unashamedly a numbers guy. He loves data, but more importantly, he loves what data tells you about what's working and what isn’t working in the business.
In today’s podcast, we will discuss:
And lots more!
IN THIS EPISODE:
[1:30] Welcoming Tom Bentley-Taylor and his background in salon software
[3:05] The evolution from Shortcuts to Vish and why colour management matters
[6:55] Are salons undercharging for colour? The problem with guesswork
[8:40] How technology reveals the true cost of delivering services
[11:10] Why data creates clarity for owners and fairness for teams
[13:15] Empowering vs restricting: how stylists respond to numbers
[18:06] Mistakes owners make when introducing change
[22:45] Pricing, margin, and why protecting profit isn’t optional
[25:20] “Creative freedom” vs business responsibility
[28:10] The difference data makes to accountability
[32:40] How Vish works with existing systems
[34:02] The data that helps drive decision-making
[36:40] The mindset of high-performing salon owners
[38:55] Final advice from Tom: stop guessing and start tracking
Want MORE to help you GROW?
📚 Check out our Bestselling GROW Books https://growmysalonbusiness.com/books/
🆘 Management overwhelm!? Download our free checklist! This checklist will help you get clarity on where you're at https://growmysalonbusiness.com/management-checklist/
RATINGS + REVIEWS
🙏Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated!
They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast.
👉 Here's what you do:
- On your phone, Click here (Read steps below first)
- Scroll down to 'Ratings & Reviews'
- Tap on the empty purple stars and rate 5 stars
- Click on ‘Write a Review’ I love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast! Thank you for your support! 🙏
Until next time!
Antony
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👉 FOLLOW TOM BENTLEY TAYLOR!
Over the years, I’ve seen many salon businesses, and inevitably, some stand out more than others.
Some of them stand out because of the decor, others for the culture, some for their size and some for their success as a business.
My guest today is Meagan McCormack, President of Visible Changes salon group in Houston, Texas, which is without doubt an amazing business.
Meagan offers incredible insights on leadership, creating a positive culture, and the importance of authentic connection in today's salon environment. Whether you're running a large salon group or a small independent salon, Meagan's wisdom about adapting to change while staying true to your values will inspire you.
In today’s podcast, we discuss:
● How a salon group the size of Visible Changes has continued to evolve as a business.
● How they have adapted to suit the changing needs of today's workforce
● Why they are expanding more into the product side of the industry
And lots more!
IN THIS EPISODE:
[01:03] Setting up today’s conversation with Meagan McCormack
[02:24] Visible Changes: What's changed since 2019
[04:31] COVID’s impact and consolidating salon locations
[07:02] Meagan’s leadership transition and new role
[11:45] Creating a people-first, compassionate management approach
[17:12] The structure of the Visible Changes management team
[18:35] Challenges of being a young woman leading a large company
[23:00] The importance of authenticity and vulnerability in leadership
[26:00] Launching a new focus on product development
[31:30] Finding confidence and fighting imposter syndrome
[38:15] Big goals: Aiming for a $100 million business
[42:14] Celebrating top performers and incredible sales achievements
[45:12] The role of retail sales in stylist success
[46:29] Navigating the challenges of booth rental and Gen Z expectations
[49:48] How mentorship is key to building the next generation of salon professionals
[52:00] Final thoughts on leadership, evolution, and resilience
Want MORE to help you GROW?
📚 Check out our Bestselling GROW Books https://growmysalonbusiness.com/books/
🆘 Management overwhelm!? Download our free checklist! This checklist will help you get clarity on where you're at https://growmysalonbusiness.com/management-checklist/
RATINGS + REVIEWS
🙏Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated!
They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast.
👉 Here's what you do:
- On your phone,Click here (Read steps below first)
- Scroll down to 'Ratings & Reviews'
- Tap on the empty purple stars and rate 5 stars
- Click on ‘Write a Review’ I love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast! Thank you for your support! 🙏
Until next time!
Antony
RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
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This week, I dive into what makes a truly effective salon manager in today's rapidly changing business landscape. I've titled it "The 9 Traits of a Modern Salon Manager", and I've consciously used the word 'Modern' because, like everything else in life and business, what worked yesterday may not work so well today.
I explore the nine essential traits that modern salon leaders need to cultivate to build successful teams, create thriving businesses, and adapt to the evolving demands of our industry. While certain principles remain timeless, other elements of management and leadership become more or less important over time.
Whether you're a salon owner looking to strengthen your leadership skills or a stylist with ambitions of salon management, this episode offers practical insights to help you develop your management approach.
And, If you're serious about elevating your management skills, be sure to join me on my FREE Masterclass: The 4 Essential Lessons in Salon Management - Save your seat here
IN THIS EPISODE:
[2:00] The importance of your role as a manager and leader
[2:52] Why the "hands-off" management approach often fails
[4:55] Trait 1: Having a clear vision for the future
[5:42] Trait 2: Understanding that leadership is about developing people
[6:23] Trait 3: Building relationships and showing empathy
[7:07] Trait 4: Offering flexibility in the workplace
[8:23] Trait 5: Driving productivity through goal-setting and accountability
[9:35] Trait 6: Embracing technology in salon management
[10:01] Trait 7: Creating and protecting your salon's culture
[10:51] Trait 8: Prioritising effective communication
[11:36] Trait 9: Embracing and adapting to change
[11:57] Final thoughts on continuous learning as a manager
Want MORE to help you GROW?
📚 Check out our Bestselling GROW Books https://growmysalonbusiness.com/books/
🆘 Management overwhelm!? Download our free checklist! This checklist will help you get clarity on where you're at https://growmysalonbusiness.com/management-checklist/
RATINGS + REVIEWS
🙏Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated!
They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast.
👉 Here's what you do:
- On your phone,Click here (Read steps below first)
- Scroll down to 'Ratings & Reviews'
- Tap on the empty purple stars and rate 5 stars
- Click on ‘Write a Review’ I love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast! Thank you for your support! 🙏
Until next time!
Antony
RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
FREE Masterclass: 4 Essential Lessons in Salon Management - Click here to save your seat
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One of the things that I constantly see in industry Facebook groups is how badly employees are paid, whether we’re talking about apprentices, assistants or stylists…
And that isn’t country specific, it’s a general trend of people feeling they’re hard done by to the point of being exploited…
But what I literally never see are comments about “How bad the productivity levels of the average hairdresser are.”
And obviously that's part of the problem, because what you earn is always going to be a reflection of what you produce.
Join me as I share 15 key traits that set high-earning stylists apart and discover how you can transform your income without thinking you have to go self-employed or change salons.
If you're ready to stop blaming and start earning, this episode is your roadmap to financial success in the salon industry.
RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
Download the Guide: 15 Points for Financial Success as an employed stylist.
IN THIS EPISODE:
[00:55] Commitment to a positive outlook despite industry challenges
[01:20] Observations about compensation complaints in industry Facebook groups
[02:07] The connection between productivity and earnings in salons
[02:56] Addressing the stylist's mindset about money and compensation
[03:39] The reality of salon economics and owner struggles
[05:11] Introducing the concept: "You don't get what you want, you get who you are"
[06:01] Questions for stylists to assess their own productivity
[07:04] Celebrating successful stylists in the industry
[07:49] Introduction to "The Half Million Dollar Club" stylists
[08:46] Discussion of stylists earning $200-250K annually behind the chair
[10:15] Addressing the blame mentality and shifting to personal responsibility
[10:51] Introduction to the 15 traits of financially successful stylists
[15:47] Practical examples of what successful stylists do consistently
Want MORE to help you GROW?
📚 Check out our Bestselling GROW Books https://growmysalonbusiness.com/books/
🆘 Management overwhelm!? Download our free checklist! This checklist will help you get clarity on where you're at https://growmysalonbusiness.com/management-checklist/
RATINGS + REVIEWS
🙏Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated!
They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast.
👉 Here's what you do:
- On your phone,Click here (Read steps below first)
- Scroll down to 'Ratings & Reviews'
- Tap on the empty purple stars and rate 5 stars
- Click on ‘Write a Review’ I love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast! Thank you for your support! 🙏
Until next time!
Antony
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It’s very rare that a new tool for cutting hair enters the professional market. And those that do usually tend to fade away.
But occasionally something piques the imagination of both the creatives and the business side of the industry as being creatively different and commercially beneficial.
My guest today is Frank Brormann, a German hairdresser, salon owner and inventor of Calligraphy Cut, a new tool and a new way of working with hair.
In today’s podcast, we will discuss:
And lots more!
IN THIS EPISODE:
[01:20] Welcome to Frank Brormann
[01:26] What exactly is Calligraphy Cut - a tool or a specific haircut?
[02:21] The origin story - how flower stems inspired the Calligraphy Cut
[05:08] The science behind the 21-degree angle and what makes it special
[06:46] What hair problems does the Calligraphy Cut solve?
[08:46] Using the Calligraphy Cut on different hair types and textures
[10:42] Why the Calligraphy Cut is best used on wet hair
[11:55] The client experience and financial impact on salons
[14:43] The business model: subscription vs. purchase options
[17:04] Frank's background and adoption rate in his own salon
[19:23] How stylists initially react to the Calligraphy Cut
[21:08] The experience of pitching on Germany's "Lion's Den" (Shark Tank)
[25:09] How the TV appearance and investors transformed the business
[29:27] Digital transformation of the Calligraphy Cut business
[33:35] Final thoughts from Frank on embracing innovation
Want MORE to help you GROW?
📚 Check out our Bestselling GROW Books
https://growmysalonbusiness.com/books/
🆘 Management overwhelm!? Download our free checklist! This checklist will help you get clarity on where you're at https://growmysalonbusiness.com/management-checklist/
RATINGS + REVIEWS
🙏Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated! They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast.
👉 Here's what you do:
- On your phone,Click here (Read steps below first)
- Scroll down to 'Ratings & Reviews'
- Tap on the empty purple stars and rate 5 stars
- Click on ‘Write a Review’ I love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast! Thank you for your support! 🙏
Until next time!
Antony
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👉 FOLLOW CALLIGRAPHY CUT UK!
👉 FOLLOW CALLIGRAPHY CUT GERMANY!
In this episode, I share a recent conversation with a Chicago-based stylist who continues to seek those 1% improvements that separate good stylists from exceptional ones.
I explore why it’s essential that salon owners invest in training their team beyond technical skills.
Because despite all the time, energy and financial commitment you make as the owner, the real success of your business often happens during the time your stylist stands behind the chair.
That's where the magic either happens or not…
As a salon owner, stop leaving the success of that interaction between client and stylist to chance and instead invest in or develop your own comprehensive training programs that cover communication skills, client service, and the mindset needed for sustained success.
IN THIS EPISODE:
[00:00] Welcome and introduction
[00:45] Introducing Rita and the Super Stylist course
[01:49] Questions for salon owners about team training
[03:33] Where the rubber meets the road: The critical client interaction
[04:14] Introduction to Rita's story and my initial assumptions
[05:14] The surprising reality of Rita's experience and mindset
[05:58] Communication distinctions that matter with clients
[06:49] Rita's approach to continuous improvement
[07:47] What inspires me about stylists like Rita
[08:51] Information about the Super Stylist course
Want MORE to help you GROW?
📚 Check out our Bestselling GROW Books https://growmysalonbusiness.com/books/
🆘Management overwhelm!? Download our free checklist! This checklist will help you get clarity on where you're at https://growmysalonbusiness.com/management-checklist/
RATINGS + REVIEWS
🙏Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated!
They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast.
👉 Here's what you do:
- On your phone,Click here (Read steps below first)
- Scroll down to 'Ratings & Reviews'
- Tap on the empty purple stars and rate 5 stars
- Click on ‘Write a Review’ I love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast! Thank you for your support! 🙏
Until next time!
Antony
RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
The Online Super Stylist course
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