Education
Episode 301
24 June 2025
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
👉 FOLLOW US!
Instagram | Facebook | Website
👉 FOLLOW LUKE REYNOLDS HAIRDRESSING!
👉 FOLLOW LUKE REYNOLDS!
Episode 299
10 June 2025
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!
👉 FOLLOW LACEYS HAIR & BEAUTY!
👉 FOLLOW UNITE UK!
👉 FOLLOW NARAD KUTOWAROO!
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
Episode 262
24 September 2024
I often say that opening a business gives you a great education. Not just into the skills needed in management, finance, and marketing.
But also the understanding and insights that come with the responsibility of employing people, training them and coaching them to become the best version possible of themselves.
On today's episode, I’m talking with returning guest salon owner and now author Martha Lynn Kale of the Mirror Mirror salon in Austin, Texas, who has written a book about getting the most out of the early years of your career.
In today’s podcast, we discuss:
- Martha Lynn’s book “The Ambitious Stylist” Making the Most of Cosmetology School.
- Why hand in hand with freedom, flexibility and autonomy comes personal responsibility, accountability and owning the outcome.
- Advice on building a clientele and developing your own personal brand.
And lots more!
IN THIS EPISODE:
(01:17) Introducing Martha Lynn Kale
(02:30) Martha Lynn's journey and book inspiration
(02:56) Martha Lynn’s Beauty School experience
(08:40) Key messages from ‘The Ambitious Stylist'
(15:00) Talking about building a clientele and personal branding
(15:53) Discussing Interview tips and professionalism
(30:35) The role of mentorship and apprenticeships within the industry
(34:36) Best advice for Beauty School students
(38:24) Discussing the future of Beauty Schools
(42:56) Where to connect and find the book
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/
🙏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:
Episode 21: https://growmysalonbusiness.com/podcast/021/
Episode 232: https://growmysalonbusiness.com/podcast/232/
Instagram The Ambitious Stylist: https://www.instagram.com/theambitiousstylist/
FOLLOW US
Instagram | Facebook | Website
FOLLOW MARTHA LYNN KALE
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.
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
Eugene Souleiman
The Wig Academy
Click here to check out Eugene's classes on The Wig Academy
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.
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
DJ Muldoon
Website | The Factory Instagram | DJ Muldoon Instagram
Episode 230
6 February 2024
“There is always a lesson if you look for it!”
Today’s episode was inspired by an email from a salon owner who is currently in the middle of dealing with the loss of 50% of his business after his ex-manager and a stylist left to open their own salon.
In this episode, I drive home the fact that in the world of business, people are bound to come and go, and there will be no shortage of obstacles. However, with every challenge comes an opportunity to learn and grow.
Tune in today to hear about the five steps that I recommend taking when your business hits a bump in the road.
In this Episode:
[01:16] The challenge that inspired today’s episode: a staff walkout.
[02:13] An overview of the five steps I recommend taking to deal with this challenge.
[02:51] How to reframe a problem as an opportunity.
[04:05] The importance of having a financial buffer for your business.
[07:01] How to “steady the boat” during a crisis.
[08:30] Factors to consider when rebuilding a salon team.
[09:23] Examples of different marketing strategies.
[11:18] Why every business owner should read Unreasonable Hospitality.
[12:38] Resources that will enhance your journey as a salon owner.
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 | TikTok | YouTube | Books
Unreasonable Hospitality
Episode 227
16 January 2024
In today’s episode, we’re going to focus on one of the most misunderstood concepts among salon industry professionals: the ‘P’ word (i.e. PROFIT).
Reliable data in the salon industry is often hard to come by. But, what is usually agreed on is that when it comes to profit margins, the average salon has a net profit margin of somewhere between 0-8%. The good news is that with a little bit of education and thoughtful strategising, that is something we can change!
So, if you’re unsure what exactly gross, net, and operating profit are, why you need to make a profit, or how to make your business more profitable, you’ve come to the right place!
In this Episode:
[01:37] The relationship between profit and return on investment.
[03:15] Why you can think of profit as a reward.
[04:02] The importance of profit for business growth.
[05:02] Additional benefits of ensuring your business is profitable.
[07:19] Why profit is such a misunderstood concept in the salon industry.
[08:58] The definition of profit.
[10:03] Typical salon business profit margins in comparison to those of other small businesses.
[10:45] The difference between a lifestyle business and a profitable business.
[12:03] Understanding gross profit.
[13:17] Understanding operating profit.
[13:34] Understanding net profit.
[15:32] Two strategies for increasing profit.
[16:51] How to develop a strategy for financial success.
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 | TikTok | YouTube | Money Course
Episode 226
9 January 2024
What would your “best year ever” look like?
As a salon owner, perhaps it would involve attracting more new clients, an increase in revenue, increasing the profit margin, or even opening another salon. Setting these kinds of resolutions is important, but it’s the easy part. Turning them into reality is where the real challenge lies.
Tune into today’s episode to hear what it’s going to take to achieve your biggest goals, and let’s make 2024 the year of results!
In this Episode:
[01:31] My challenge to you for 2024.
[02:26] Important metrics for salon owners to track.
[03:20] Step one in making 2024 your “best year ever.”
[04:44] How to turn a goal into reality.
[06:42] The relationship between resolutions and results.
[07:09] Questions to ask yourself to achieve the results you desire.
[09:19] Why it is essential to understand the financial side of your business.
[13:39] How to get comfortable with your finances.
[14:15] The benefits of attending my online Money Course.
[15:00] Where and when to sign up for the course!
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 | TikTok | YouTube | Money Course
Episode 225
3 January 2024
“Information given without emotion is very rarely remembered.”
So much has changed in the two years since Gianni Scumaci was last on the podcast, including the incredible growth his digital education platform has experienced, his new academy space outside of Rome, and the development of an exciting new app that is sure to enhance the salon experience for owners, hairdressers, and clients everywhere!
In today’s podcast, we will discuss:
- Gianni’s “heart to hand” philosophy
- How digital education is evolving
- The soon-to-be-launched MeMo app…
And lots more!
In this Episode:
[00:49] Where you can find out more about our online Money Course.
[02:28] How Gianni’s business has evolved and expanded over the past two years.
[07:49] The many benefits that Gianni’s new academy space affords his clients and himself.
[15:33] The “heart to hand” philosophy that Gianni and his wife and business partner live by.
[18:16] Why listening is an essential skill for hairdressing success.
[22:54] Gianni’s definition of suitability.
[23:50] An overview of the soon-to-be-launched app, MeMo, of which Gianni is a co-founder.
[26:44] MeMo’s target audience.
[27:00] How MeMo differs from other salon-focused apps.
[30:41] The value of MeMo for hairdressers and their clients.
[35:54] How the app protects salon owners.
[39:52] How the app enhances hairdressers’ motivation levels.
[42:53] Characteristics that make MeMo’s offerings unique.
[51:47] The cost of a MeMo subscription.
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 Gianni 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 | YouTube | Money Course | Episode 121
Gianni Scumaci
Courses | Website | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | LinkedIn
MeMo
Demo | Instagram | App Store | Google Play | Website
