Creative

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Episode 290

8 April 2025

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:

What exactly is the calligraphy cut?
How it could potentially be a new cutting service to offer your clients
The experience of being on Germany’s ‘Lions Den’ (Shark Tank), where he secured a million-euro investment.

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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Hair Every Wear 3.0 – Collection video

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Episode 271

26 November 2024

I have always said that hairdressing is an amazing craft and that many hairdressers also have a creative side to them, which is often what draws them to this profession in the first place.

But the term artist shouldn’t be used to describe every hairdresser because very few are. But occasionally, you come across a hairdresser who truly is an artist. An individual who consistently shows a level of creativity that separates them from the rest.

My guest today is Angelo Seminara, who is, without doubt, an artist in the true sense of the word. In fact, I’m going to say that when it comes to hair, he is nothing short of a creative genius.

In today’s podcast, we will discuss:

Creativity in hairdressing
Sustainability in product development
The importance of mentorship

And lots more!

IN THIS EPISODE:

[01:08] Introducing Angelo Seminara: A true hair artist

[02:20] Angelo's early start in hairdressing

[08:09] The journey to London and meeting Trevor Sorbie

[18:32] The importance of mentorship

[23:50] Defining Angelo's unique work

[32:06] Exploring editorial work and product design

[36:19] Defining beauty and suitability

[44:37] The importance of fashion in hairdressing

[46:31] Working with product companies

[49:53] Awards and recognition in hairdressing

[53:37] Future aspirations and creative ventures

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:

Solage Meche – Hair Colouring Tool

Imprinter

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👉 FOLLOW ANGELO SEMINARA!

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Episode 269

12 November 2024

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 this episode, 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.

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

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 265

15 October 2024

If this era of hairdressing will be remembered for anything specific I believe it will be the rise of the self-employed.

Regardless of where in the world you’re located, the self-employed business model in its various forms has made a huge impact on the industry and is continuing to do so.

Today's guests are Ross and Jack Williams-Hirst, the co-founders of Williams & Hirst, a new co-working salon space in the heart of London’s Soho district.

In today’s podcast, we discuss:

The co-working salon business model and what’s driving the independent hairdressing movement.
How Williams & Hirst aims to elevate the freelance salon experience by offering a luxe environment alongside comprehensive support.
The importance of having rental packages that work for everyone…

And lots more!

IN THIS EPISODE:

[00:53] Introducing Williams & Hirst: A new co-working salon in London’s Soho

[02:20] Jack and Ross’s journey to freelance and co-working

[04:49] Navigating the challenges of self-employment

[08:03] Understanding VAT and its impact on freelance hairstylists and salon owners

[11:29] Balancing business and personal life in a business partnership

[16:49] The importance of clear business boundaries

[24:57] Discussing legal definitions and independent contractor agreements

[31:09] Navigating the grey areas of commission split models

[33:04] Professional use inventory and supply store within Williams & Hirst

[34:41] The importance of a staff lounge

[37:01] Transparent pricing and business models

[45:36] Understanding the financial viability for hairdressers when going freelance

[53:19] Conclusion and final thoughts

Want MORE to help you GROW?

📚 Check out our Bestselling GROW
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/

🙏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

– 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:

Williams & Hirst

Ross Williams-Hirst

Jack Williams-Hirst

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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

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

Eugene Souleiman

The Wig Academy

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

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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

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