Education
Episode 334
10 February 2026
In today’s episode, I’m joined by Gerard Scarpaci, co-founder of Hairbrained and host of the Hairbrained Conversations podcast.
We talk about the big shifts happening in hairdressing right now, how the next generation learns differently, and why the old business models have been turned on their head. Gerard shares what excites him most about the industry today, but he’s also refreshingly honest about the risks, particularly around lack of direction, mentorship, and the pressure many hairdressers are carrying without even realising it.
We also dig into job satisfaction, education, live events, the changing relationship between salons and manufacturers, and why content creation is becoming one of the biggest opportunities for young hairdressers today. This is a wide-ranging, honest conversation about what it really takes to build a sustainable, fulfilling career in today’s salon business.
IN THIS EPISODE:
[00:00] Welcome and Introducing Gerard Scarpaci
[01:48] What excites Gerard about the industry today
[05:00] The concerns and risks of increased independence
[09:00] The Hairbrained Confidence Index explained
[12:36] Why industry data is emotional, not scientific
[16:26] What successful salons are doing differently
[17:56] Job satisfaction, pressure, and performance
[23:08] Learning, relevance, and modern education challenges
[29:36] Fundamentals vs “timely and relevant” learning
[32:32] The changing relationship between brands and salons
[37:00] Online education, live events, and what's working now
[44:28] Opportunities for the next generation of hairdressers
[48:00] Where to connect with Gerard and closing thoughts
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:
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– 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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Episode 321
11 November 2025
In this week’s episode, I’m joined by Rita Marcon, whose story perfectly captures the courage it takes to follow your intuition and reinvent yourself. Rita is a former hairdresser who climbed the corporate ladder to become the Australian General Manager for one of the biggest haircare brands before taking a leap of faith to start her own business, I Am Conscious Living.
Rita’s journey is full of wisdom about courage, leadership, and self-awareness. We talk about what it takes to leave the comfort of the known, how to stay grounded when everything’s changing, and the difference between leading others and truly leading yourself. Her approach to conscious living and human leadership is something every salon owner can learn from.
Whether you’re leading a team, running a salon solo, or just looking to find more meaning and calm in the chaos, this conversation will leave you inspired to breathe, be brave, and lead with heart.
IN THIS EPISODE:
[01:00] Meet Rita Marcon, from salon floor to global leadership
[04:50] Finding the courage to change direction
[07:30] Lessons learned from 28 years in corporate life
[10:10] Knowing your value and self-worth as a leader
[13:00] The role of culture and communication in leadership
[17:00] Applying corporate lessons to small business and solo ownership
[23:00] Practical ways to bring conscious living into daily salon life
[25:00] Human leadership vs. hard systems
[33:00] Preventing burnout and finding balance
[36:20] When to follow your gut vs. data in decision making
[40:45] Nature or nurture? How leadership is truly learned
[42:50] A powerful story of resilience and self-leadership
[46:45] One conscious habit for every salon owner
[48:30] How to connect with Rita and learn more about I Am Conscious Living
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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Episode 315
1 October 2025
In this week’s episode, I sit down with Kristin Firrell, who after more than 40 years in the professional beauty industry, is stepping into the next chapter of her life. Kristin’s story is all about connection, trust, and education. From the very beginning, when Kristin realised that in hairdressing she had found her people, to stepping into leadership roles at John Paul Mitchell Systems, her career has been shaped by authentic relationships and a passion for helping others grow.
We talk about the importance of reinvention, why trust is the cornerstone of success, and how education, culture and the client experience will define the future of salons. This is a conversation about legacy, lifelong learning, and remembering that at its heart, hairdressing is always a people business.
IN THIS EPISODE:
[00:00] Introduction and welcome
[00:50] Kristin’s early beginnings and finding her people in hairdressing
[09:15] From stylist to educator to corporate leader
[13:40] The power of trust and transferable skills
[16:20] Going back to school at 43 and the importance of lifelong learning
[25:30] What salon owners really need to understand about their business
[29:00] Culture, gratitude, and creating great client experiences
[31:00] Why education is at the heart of growth and connection
[38:00] Advice, wisdom, and lessons from mentors
[41:00] Reflections on legacy, authenticity, and relationships
[42:30] Closing thoughts and gratitude
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:
Paul Mitchell Pro – Instagram
Paul Mitchell – Website
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Episode 312
9 September 2025
In this week’s episode, I speak with Chris Baran. Chris has worn just about every hat in our profession: stylist, salon owner, podcaster, and global ambassador, but above all, he is a teacher. For nearly 60 years, he’s been evolving, reinventing, and staying at the forefront of education.
We talk about what it really takes to be an educator, how education has changed in the wake of the pandemic, and the role of curiosity, humility, and vulnerability in teaching.
Chris shares not just technical wisdom but also the mindset shifts that make the difference between simply “instructing” and truly inspiring. Whether you’re a salon owner, a stylist, or an aspiring educator, this conversation is full of nuggets about growth, leadership, and the responsibility we all have to lift others up.
IN THIS EPISODE:
[00:00] Introduction and welcome
[00:49] Chris Baran’s background and career journey
[05:00] Reinvention vs. evolution in education and creativity
[08:29] How do you know if you’re ready to be an educator?
[13:45] What makes a truly great teacher
[18:00] The power of vulnerability and connection in teaching
[21:00] Why “teaching what you most need to learn” matters
[26:00] Validation, ego, and finding authenticity on stage
[31:21] How education has changed since the pandemic
[34:00] Generational shifts and the “swipe right” society
[38:40] Creating a culture of growth inside your salon
[46:10] Where to connect with Chris Baran
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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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
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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!
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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
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/
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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
