Creative

Episode 259

27 August 2024

When you’ve been in this industry a long time, you not only see trends and businesses come and go, but you also see people come and go.

But, longevity as a hairdresser and remaining relevant throughout your career is not only a skill in itself, but if you can remain passionate and keep evolving with the times, the result is that you build up a range of skills that leave you with a fantastic legacy to pass on to the generations that follow.

My guest today is one such person; Ruth Roche has had many roles in the industry, and over a 40 year career, she has done all of them well and continues to inspire hairdressers at every stage of their career.

In today’s episode, we discuss:

Using humour to break down barriers and create engagement as an educator
The value in working across different areas in the industry
Defining beauty and suitability

And lots more!

In this Episode:

01:11 Introducing Ruth Roche: A diverse and passionate career in Hairdressing

02:34 The role of humour in hairdressing

06:21 Mastering communication skills as a hairdresser and presenter

09:52 Discussing Ruth’s diverse career paths in hairdressing

17:31 Defining beauty and suitability

25:23 Reflecting on 40 years in hairdressing

25:49 Opening a salon: The challenges and triumphs

29:09 Transitioning to business ownership

36:50 The Importance of versatility in hairdressing

37:24 Global perspectives on the hair industry

42:02 Embracing short haircuts and overcoming fears

45:17 Where to connect with Ruth Roche

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

Ruth Roche

Instagram | YouTube | Facebook

The Golden Goat Podcast

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Episode 250

25 June 2024

There are only a very small number of hairdressers who at any one time influence hairdressing all over the world.

I have been fortunate to have had the opportunity to interview some of them on the podcast, and I always relish the chance to find out what it is that separates their ability from others.

My guest on this week's Podcast is returning guest Eugene Souleiman, who is without doubt one of the very top session hairdressers in the world.

Eugene is that rare breed of hairstylist who really is an artist. His work inspires other editorial stylists and salon hairdressers alike the world over, and along with 2 or 3 other people, he is at the top of the pile.

In today’s episode, we discuss:

The creative process
The importance of mentors
The Wig Academy

And lots more!

In this Episode:

[01:42] How Eugene defines beauty.

[07:32] The challenge of creating the impossible!

[10:05] The important lessons from Eugene's training with Trevor Sorbie, that have underpinned his career.

[11:02] What makes someone a creative?

[12:03] Growing up with dyslexia and dyspraxia and how that has had a part in how Eugene thinks.

[15:39] Discussing the importance of rules and boundaries when starting a career in hair.

[22:04] The importance of humility and vulnerability in the creative process.

[27:10] Describing the attitude & energy of young people today and how to create a sense of curiosity and creativity.

[31:39] What it looks like to lead, a team of people.

[33:04] The importance of mentors in your career.

[35:17] Working with designers and being pushed creatively.

[41:04] Discussing the purpose and goal of the Wig Academy.

[50:16] Will we see a return of the wig as a fashion accessory?

[52:09] The wrap-up and where you can get in touch with Eugene.

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.

Until next time!

Antony

Links and Resources:

Grow My Salon Business

Website | Facebook | Instagram

Eugene Souleiman

Instagram

The Wig Academy

Click here to check out Eugene's classes on The Wig Academy

Instagram

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Episode 249

18 June 2024

The role and opportunities for hairdressing education has changed dramatically over the last few years through social media and the various online learning platforms.

That has led to the rise of the independent educator. Today’s guest is DJ Muldoon, who has made a great name for himself both in the online world and face-to-face for being a fantastic educator.

In this episode we discuss:

What does the life of the independent educator look like?
The impact of Social Media… and…
What is the key to becoming a great educator?

And lots more!

In this Episode:

[01:25] Introduction to DJ

[04:06] Putting DJ to the test is he English or American?

[06:38] DJ fills us in on his salon/school/workspace called ‘The factory.’

[10:11] DJ talks about his life on the road as an educator

[12:29] Discussing the backstory to Knowledge Destroys Fear DJs education company.

[13:31] The key to being a great educator

[15:24] Discussing Yojhi Yamamoto’s famous quote ‘The art of the minimum requires the maximum of discipline.”

[17:08] The importance of simplicity and DJs favourite quote

[21:16] How the lessons learnt at Paul Mitchell helped to teach the what, the why the how, and the when.

[22:26] DJ talks to his experience with a generation of hairdressers who specialize.

[26:41] The differences in education today when it comes to beauty colleges and apprenticeships.

[30:27] How hard do you have to work to have 380,000 followers?

[32:50] Where social media is heading in terms of salon education.

[37:59] Staying relevant when you’re working on your own.

[40:44] What do you see are the biggest challenges for the industry everywhere?

[45:43] The wrap up and how you can connect with DJ

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.

Until next time!

Antony

Links and Resources:

Grow My Salon Business

Website | Facebook | Instagram

DJ Muldoon

Website | The Factory Instagram | DJ Muldoon Instagram

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Episode 243

7 May 2024

I don’t believe that there has ever been a family in the world of hairdressing that has made the impact that the Mascolo family has.

Whether it was the Toni & Guy salons and schools, the TIGI products, or the incredible shows, and stunning photography. Either way the Mascolo brothers, Toni, Guy, Bruno and Anthony were at the forefront of everything in hairdressing and created a hairdressing dynasty that will live on for many years to come.

My guest on today’s episode is Anthony Mascolo who’s creativity and leadership was the force behind the creative direction of the brand.

In today’s podcast we discuss:

The use of AI in hairdressing
The changing salon business
Leadership and team building

And lots more!

In this Episode:

[03:24] How Anthony used AI in the latest episode of Infringe Magazine

[07:09] What impact will AI have on the awards side of the industry?

[12:08] If Anthony was opening salons today, what would he do differently?

[16:36] Discussing the building and selling of the Tigi brand.

[21:33] The keys to building a successful team and being a great leader.

[24:05] Acknowledging Pat Mascolo for her talent and inspiration and the role that she has played.

[29:20] Looking back at career highlights and the incredible career that Anthony Mascolo has had.

[32:48] Anthony and Pat’s Magazine INFRINGE The anthropology of hair is online and in print and is a great way of showcasing other peoples talent.

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

Anthony Mascolo

INFRINGE Anthony Mascolo | INFRINGE Magazine | INFRINGE Instagram

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Episode 221

5 December 2023

The Sassoon brand will be celebrating its 70th birthday next year, and it is as relevant as ever before.

Like many businesses, the last couple of years forced the Sassoon leadership team to reevaluate the way forward because if a business is to stay relevant, it mustn't be afraid to reinvent.

The result is House of Sassoon, a concept that combines different salon models, hair education, ambassador programs, and more under one roof in arguably the coolest part of London.

On this week’s episode, I speak with Sassoon CEO Debbie Webster about the launch of House of Sassoon and how it has breathed new life into the business.

In today’s podcast, we discuss:

The relaunch of the brand as House of Sassoon
How the company has evolved over the past few years
Trends taking place in the hair education space…

And lots more!

In this Episode:

[03:03] An overview of the House of Sassoon launch.

[05:34] How Debbie chose the location for House of Sassoon.

[08:49] The motivation behind the consolidation of the Sassoon salons.

[11:14] Elements that make House of Sassoon such a visionary concept.

[19:25] Debbie’s thoughts on how to ensure your brand stays relevant in the long term.

[21:04] Plans for the future of the House of Sassoon.

[26:59] The complementary relationship between Drybar and Sassoon.

[31:35] Benefits of Sassoon’s online education platform.

[33:55] Trends that are taking place in the hair education industry.

[41:36] An overview of the different Sassoon retail categories.

[45:14] How Debbie sees the salon industry evolving in the coming decade.

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.

Special thanks to Debbie 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 | TikTok | Episode 102

Debbie Webster

Instagram | LinkedIn

House of Sassoon

Drybar

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Episode 200

11 July 2023

The words' icon' and ‘legend' are totally overused in the hairdressing industry, and the problem that it creates is that when you really do meet someone regarded as a genuine icon or legend in the hairdressing industry, there are no superlatives left to aptly describe their status.

Having said that, today's guest would never call himself an ‘icon' or a ‘legend,' and it's that humility combined with decades at the top creatively that has earned him the respect of hairdressers everywhere.

My guest on today's podcast is Mr Trevor Sorbie MBE. Trevor started his career working in his father's barbershop in Paisley, Scotland. He went on to become one of the biggest names in the world of hairdressing, and along the way, won 4 British Hairdresser Of the Year Awards, was awarded a Doctorate from a Scottish University and was made a Member of the British Empire from her Majesty the Queen…

In today's podcast, we will discuss:

– The importance of nurturing creativity

– The art of being a great on-stage presenter

– The wisdom that comes with age…

And lots more!

In this Episode:

[03:57] The leadership style which has been a defining characteristic of Trevor’s career.

[10:59] Challenges that Trevor dealt with growing up in Paisley, Scotland.

[13:21] The origins of Trevor’s hairdressing career.

[18:51] Why Trevor chose to keep his skill set broad and diverse.

[21:08] What the early days of building the Trevor Sorbie brand were like.

[27:05] How Trevor’s product line came into being (and his feelings towards it).

[33:32] The factors that motivated Trevor to sell his salons four years ago.

[36:22] Trevor’s ultimate dream.

[38:37] How Trevor nurtured talent within his salons.

[45:36] The trait Trevor believes is essential for success in the salon industry.

[46:52] Trevor’s approach to teaching.

[49:11] A watershed moment in Trevor’s career.

[54:10] The routine that Trevor follows prior to every show.

[56:42] Trevor shares what inspired him to found My New Hair (and the mission of the organisation).

[58:02] Some of Trevor’s most memorable life experiences.

[1:10:49] The philosophies that Trevor lives by.

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.

Special thanks to Trevor 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 | TikTok

Trevor Sorbie

Website | Instagram | Facebook

My New Hair

Website

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Episode 189

25 April 2023

As many of you may know, my hairdressing background started with a 10-year stint at the Vidal Sassoon salons and schools in London before I went off to do my own thing.

Whether you worked at Sassoon or not, most hairdressers are interested in how the brand has evolved during its 65-year journey (which is a major feat in itself!).

Vidal Sassoon changed the way the world looks at and works with hair. But every bit as important as that fact is that he showed that being open to adapting to change is essential if you want to survive, not just in hairdressing but in any business.

Over the last few years, the Sassoon brand has continued to evolve, and they recently announced that some big and exciting developments are going to be taking place in the company.

My guest on today’s podcast is my good friend and former colleague Mark Hayes, who is the International Creative Director at Sassoon, and he is going to tell us all about the next stage in the evolution of the Sassoon brand.

In this Episode:

[03:35] Mark explains what the House of Sassoon is and the motivation behind its creation.
[07:02] Key factors that have enabled Sassoon’s 65 years of success.
[13:36] The private memberships that will be offered by the House of Sassoon.
[15:17] Energy that will emanate from the House of Sassoon.
[19:03] The amount of money that has been invested into the House of Sassoon by the current owner of the company.
[20:45] Why the House of Sassoon is so much more than just a new location.
[22:03] The planned phased opening of the House of Sassoon.
[23:22] Power that lies in a name like Vidal Sassoon.
[27:37] How Vidal Sassoon’s approach to hairdressing evolved over time.
[29:18] A tribute to Mary Quant.
[39:04] How the work/life balance in the hairdressing industry has changed since the early days of Mark’s career.
[44:28] What each of the five floors in the House of Sassoon will be dedicated to.
[46:56] How the House of Sassoon’s private membership offerings will cater to peoples’ desire for flexibility.
[48:07] Different generational perspectives on work.
[52:10] How the House of Sassoon intends to celebrate the company’s heritage.

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 Mark 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 | TikTok

Mark Hayes

LinkedIn | Instagram

Sassoon

Website | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube

Sassoon Academy

Website | Instagram | Facebook

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Episode 184

21 March 2023

When Nicole Kidman describes you as the best hairdresser in the world, it is safe to say you’ve mastered your craft!

Kerry Warn is the man behind the iconic hairstyles seen in movies like Eyes Wide Shut, The Stepford Wives, The Great Gatsby, Bewitched, Mrs. America, Grace of Monaco, and Bladerunner…(to name a few)

And you would have seen his work on the world's biggest fashion catwalks…

And on the cover of leading fashion magazines …

Today's podcast is an interview that was done in 2015, but Kerry is still very much active today. What stood out most when talking to him eight years ago was his humility, his charm, and his insights into fashion and hair and beauty. He has a depth of knowledge that is extremely rare.

Kerry's journey is one of commitment, dedication, and passion that I know you will be inspired by, so tune in to hear what it takes to become a true hairdressing master!

In this Episode:

[03:44] When Kerry first fell in love with the hairdressing industry.

[04:50] What Kerry’s upbringing in the country was like, and why he left it behind for the city.

[10:19] The early days of Kerry’s iconic hairdressing journey.

[13:23] Kerry’s transition from Perth to London and what this phase of his career entailed.

[20:44] Value that lies in being surrounded by talented people.

[22:31] Photographers who Kerry worked with during the ’70s in London.

[23:53] Lessons that Kerry learned during his time at Molton Brown.

[25:53] What Kerry feels the hairdressing industry has lost in recent years.

[27:22] How Kerry’s approach to his work changed when he moved to New York and the success he experienced there.

[32:52] Where Kerry’s journey in the film industry began and how it evolved over time.

[38:30] An unforgettable moment from Kerry’s first time working with Nicole Kidman.

[44:44] How film and session work differ and what Kerry loves about both industries.

[47:00] Why less is often more when it comes to hair.

[48:35] Why research is essential to being a fantastic film or session photographer.

[50:43] Curiosity and continuous evolution: foundational pillars of Kerry’s life.

[55:31] Traits that make Kerry the exceptional hairdresser he is.

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.

Special thanks to Kerry for sharing his story with me for this week’s episode. Until next time!

Antony

Links and Resources:

Grow My Salon Business

Website | Facebook | Instagram | TikTok

Kerry Warn

Website | Instagram

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Episode 167

15 November 2022

Sometimes I find myself searching for words to aptly describe the achievements and status of someone who is way ahead of the pack.

My guest on today's episode is one such person, and I’m going to describe him as a ‘hairdressing genius.’

Sam McKnight is a session stylist with a list of eye-watering achievements, including having worked with every supermodel you can name, as well as celebrities, movie stars, royalty, photographers, magazines, and fashion designers, over the last 40 years.

He has so many Vogue covers to his credit that he’s lost count (well over 250!) He’s won awards, had exhibitions, published his own book, and been a contributing editor to British Vogue.

Sam is currently a judge on the UK reality TV show, ‘The Big Blow Out’ (which is sponsored by Paul Mitchell), and on top of all that, Sam is the founder of his own product range, simply called “Hair by Sam McKnight.”

So, in today's podcast, we just talk about being Sam McKnight…

In this Episode:

[04:04] The transition point in Sam’s life that is marked by his book, Hair By Sam McKnight.

[09:47] Sam explains what motivated him to become a session stylist at a time when most hairdressers were focused on cutting hair.

[14:46] The person who influenced Sam in the early years of his career.

[16:33] Value that lies in building and maintaining good relationships with people in the industry.

[19:38] Characteristics and situations that Sam is repelled by.

[23:06] The balance between intimacy and distance that is required of a hairdresser.

[26:21] A trait that Sam believes has been key to his success.

[27:29] Some of the catalytic moments that signaled a step-up in Sam’s career.

[29:38] The combination of factors that turn a model into a worldwide phenomenon.

[32:24] Dynamism that defines the modern hairdressing industry.

[34:51] The genius of Karl Lagerfeld.

[37:27] The power that lies in being a hairstylist.

[42:13] How Sam became involved in the reality TV show, The Big Blow Out, and an overview of the concept behind the show.

[46:53] Sam’s experience of creating his haircare brand, and the elements that make his products stand out.

[52:22] What Sam thinks hairdressers should do to stay relevant in the industry as it evolves.

[59:19] Sam’s biggest strength, the most important life lesson he has learned, and what he wishes he was better at.

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.

Special thanks to Sam 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 | TikTok

Sam McKnight

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Episode 158

13 September 2022

A career in hairdressing can take you on a journey in all sorts of directions that you couldn’t possibly have imagined!

My guest on today's podcast is hairstylist Wendy Iles, the founder of her signature product line and a true ‘Celebrity Hairdresser’ in every sense of the word.

In today’s episode, we will discuss:

Finding the balance between a successful career and life as a mother and wife.
What it takes to be a successful celebrity hairdresser.
The importance of strong foundation skills.
And lots more!

In this Episode:

[05:29] How Wendy defines a Celebrity Hairdresser and how she came to hold this title.

[10:36] The difference between being a magazine session stylist and a celebrity hairdresser.

[13:33] Wendy shares the story of her journey of learning to dress hair.

[19:06] How Wendy’s time spent living in France has influenced how she approaches her work.

[20:55] Comparing vogue aesthetics across the world.

[24:04] A big reason for the limited number of female hairdressers working as editorial and session stylists.

[28:52] The instrumental role of hairdressers in editorial shoots.

[32:01] Wendy shares the story of how she became president of a haircare company.

[38:29] Big changes taking place in the Iles Formula family business this year.

[40:48] What Wendy feels is her biggest achievement.

[45:16] Wendy’s thoughts on the evolution of the salon industry.

[49:01] Inspiration to step out of your comfort zone!

[50:40] The importance of nurturing connections.

[52:49] The biggest lesson that Wendy has learned throughout her illustrious career.

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 Wendy 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

Wendy Iles

Website | Email | Instagram | Facebook | LinkedIn

Iles Formula

Website | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | Pinterest

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