Salon Stories

Episode 285

This is a reissue of one of our most popular episodes, where we revisit the keys to building an incredible salon culture with Meagan McCormack.

Meagan is, amongst other titles, ‘Chief Operating Officer' of the Visible Changes salon group based in Houston, Texas.

I promise that you are going to love this podcast. Visible Changes is an incredibly inspiring salon business that everyone can learn something from.

On this episode, we cover the following key areas:

1️⃣ The importance of recognition, celebration and reward in building a sustainable salon culture.

2️⃣ The importance of giving back.

3️⃣ The key to running a successful family business.

 

IN THIS EPISODE:

[02:45] Introducing Meagan McCormack, Chief Operating Officer of Visible Changes.

[03:10] A look at the history, values, and growth of Visible Changes

[10:56] The challenges and rewards of running a salon group as a family business

[18:30] Why recognition and appreciation are key to building a thriving salon culture.

[25:29] A behind-the-scenes look at the numbers that matter.

[29:45] Insights from Visible Changes’ company conferences

[30:12] Fostering a positive work environment through celebrations and acknowledging milestones.

[33:15] How to keep motivation high, from incentive trips to unique rewards for top performers.

[35:05] How the company sets realistic yet ambitious sales targets and supports their team in achieving them.

[40:20] The inspiring story of Christine Lee and how she achieved remarkable success within the company.

[46:45] Meagan’s approach to leadership, fostering teamwork, and ensuring a strong, united salon culture that supports long-term success.

 

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:

Thair for you Charity

 

👉 FOLLOW US!

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👉 FOLLOW MEAGAN McCORMACK!

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Episode 282

Today's guest is Susan Wos, an American-based former hairdresser turned business broker who specialises in the salon industry and has now worked with clients in America, Canada, Dubai, UK and Australia…

Susan brings valuable insights of the inner workings of the salon industry to the brokerage business.

In today’s podcast, we discuss:

– How much is your salon really worth?

– When is the right time to sell your salon?

– What are the biggest misconceptions about buying and selling salon businesses?

As well as…

The importance of keeping clean financial records, understanding the value of independent contractor income versus employee-based models, The dynamics of selling to existing staff and why it’s important to plan an exit strategy from the start.

And so much more!

 

IN THIS EPISODE:

 

[01:13] Introducing today's guest: Susan Wos

[02:01] Susan's journey from hairdresser to business broker

[05:05] The challenges and insights in selling salons

[10:12] The intricacies of valuing a salon business

[14:17] The impact of self-employment on salon valuation

[17:51] Discussing market trends and buyer-seller dynamics

[21:44] Emergency sales: The strategies and considerations

[23:53] The importance of valuing your business realistically

[24:26] Planning your exit strategy early

[25:21] The importance of building a sellable business

[30:27] Selling to existing staff

[33:35] Typical buyers in the salon industry

[43:38] Connect with Susan Wos

 

 

Want MORE to help you GROW?

 

📚 Check out our Bestselling GROW Books https://growmysalonbusiness.com/books/

🆘 Management overwhelm!? Download our free checklist! This checklist will help you get clarity on where you're at https://growmysalonbusiness.com/management-checklist/

 

 

RATINGS + REVIEWS

 

🙏Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated!

They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast.

👉 Here's what you do:

– On your phone, Click here  (Read steps below first)

– Scroll down to ‘Ratings & Reviews'

– Tap on the empty purple stars and rate 5 stars

– Click on ‘Write a Review’ I love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast! Thank you for your support! 🙏

Until next time!
Antony

 

 

RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

Free Business Valuation Calculator- https://salonspaconnection.com/free-salon-business-valuation/

 

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👉 FOLLOW SALON SPA CONNECTION!

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Episode 280

I've been in the industry a long time, and as a result I’d like to think that I know a lot about all things to do with hair and hairdressing.

But one area I haven’t had a lot of practical hands-on exposure to, is the ‘Hair Extensions’ side of the business.

Heavily influenced by social media and reality TV influencers, the ‘hair extensions’ business has become a huge part of the salon industry, and as a revenue producer, it is certainly not something to be ignored.

My guest on today's Podcast is Dina Demetriou, who is the head of education at ‘Beauty Works’ They are the market leaders in the hair extension business in the UK and Europe, and they have a global presence in the hair extension Industry…

In today’s podcast, we discuss:

• What are the biggest misconceptions around hair extensions?

• The different methods when working with hair extensions.

• Why and how you should start integrating hair extensions into your salon business 

And lots more!

 

IN THIS EPISODE:

[01:07] Meet Dina Dimitriou from Beauty Works

[03:40] Dina's Journey into hair extensions

[05:23] Common objections and misconceptions about hair extensions

[09:11] The Influence of social media and reality TV

[13:26] Discussing hair extensions and hair health

[19:45] The evolution of hair extensions

[21:59] How hair extensions can attract new and existing clients

[24:35] The rise of the extensionist

[25:33] Challenges and success in the extension industry

[28:04] Training and certification for extensionists

[36:12] Retail opportunities and aftercare

[40:04] Pricing strategies for extensions

[47:18] Connecting with Dina and final 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:

– 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!

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👉 FOLLOW DINA DEMETRIOU!

Instagram

 

👉 FOLLOW BEAUTY WORKS!

Instagram

Episode 275

Salons and Christmas go hand in hand with stress and overwhelm. But hey “It’s over”.

Now [hopefully] it’s your chance to spend time with family and friends and kick back and recharge and exercise some self care.

As we begin to close out the year, this short episode is just my way of saying thank you for being a listener and to wish you and yours a safe and happy Christmas!

Travel safe, have fun and most of all be kind to yourself.

Happy Christmas!

 

IN THIS EPISODE:

[00:00] Welcome and Christmas Greetings

[00:40] Gratitude to our listeners and team

[02:01] Year-end reflections and planning

[03:07] Emotional aspects of the holiday season

[05:24] Kindness and support during the holidays

[07:23] Looking forward to 2025

 

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 274

The end of the year is always a time to recap and reflect on the year that’s been.

You might choose to do that at a personal or salon level, but you can also look at what’s happening on an industry-wide basis and ask yourself what’s worked during the last year. What are the business trends, and where are the opportunities for the year ahead?

On today's episode, I am talking with returning guest Gordon Miller, fellow podcast creator, AI enthusiast and someone who not only cares deeply about the industry but he is also someone who has worked across many areas of the industry and has developed a well-informed and somewhat unique overview particularly when it comes to the American salon industry.

In today’s podcast, amongst other things, we will discuss:

• The fake news in the salon industry.
• The integration of AI into everything we do.
• The evolving relationship between salons and manufacturers.

And lots more!

 

IN THIS EPISODE:

 

[02:31] The rise of self-employment in hairdressing

[08:21] Work-life balance and mental health post-COVID

[09:28] The impact of misinformation in the industry

[17:55] Inflation and tipping in the hairdressing industry

[26:16] Potential changes with the new government

[29:18] Impact of overseas manufacturing and inflation

[30:18] Embracing AI in the industry

[34:23] AI concierge and salon management

[37:51] The evolution of industry events

[43:22] Social media trends and strategies

[47:21] Retail relationships and profitability

[52:14] Predictions for 2025

 

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!

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👉 FOLLOW GORDON MILLER!

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Episode 271

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:

Hair Every Wear 3.0 – Collection video

Solage Meche – Hair Colouring Tool

Imprinter

 

👉 FOLLOW US!

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👉 FOLLOW ANGELO SEMINARA!

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Episode 269

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

Episode 267

What does it take to produce half a million dollars a year behind the chair? 

Turns out it’s not being a celebrity stylist, or a fashion week back stage superstar stylist or having a huge social media following. 

Instead, it’s about stability, relationships, giving clients a great experience, word-of-mouth referrals, being organised, being goal-oriented, looking after yourself, consistency, flexibility, listening, hard work, making genuine connections, and genuinely being a nice person. 

Today is another episode where I am talking to a hairstylist who you may not have heard of before.

But amongst other things, what makes her so special is that she produces very high revenue figures behind the chair… 

And I want to find out what it takes to do that. 

My guest on today's Podcast is Maxwell Snow from the Van Michael salons in Atlanta, Maxwell is one of those hairstylists who produces around half a million dollars a year behind the chair…

In today’s podcast, we will discuss:

• What’s the key is to doing extraordinary numbers behind the chair…
• The benefits of working a four-day week 
• Finding balance

And lots more!

IN THIS EPISODE:

[00:49] Meet Maxwell Snow: High-earning hairstylist 

[02:53] Discussing Maxwell's revenue and earnings breakdown

[04:45] Maxwell’s work ethic and clientele

[08:43] Daily routine and work schedule

[10:39] Maxwell’s specialisation and services

[15:59] Motivation, personal drive and overcoming challenges

[22:11] Embracing life after a near-death experience

[23:59] The importance of authenticity and hard work

[25:43] Balancing work and personal life

[27:39] Upselling and rebooking strategies

[36:33] Lessons learned and advice for newcomers

[42:59] Final thoughts and social media presence

 

RATINGS + REVIEWS

🙏Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated!

They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast.

👉 Here's what you do:

– On your phone,  Click here (Read steps below first)

– Scroll down to ‘Ratings & Reviews'

– Tap on the empty purple stars and rate 5 stars

– Click on ‘Write a Review’ I love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast! Thank you for your support! 🙏

Until next time!
Antony

 

RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

The Key to Six-Figure Salon Success with Brandon Darragh 

What Does it Take to do Over Half a Million Dollars a Year Behind the Chair? with Denise Deering 

From Small City to Big Sales: Jyl Craven's Path to $600,000 

 

👉 FOLLOW US!

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👉 FOLLOW MAXWELL!

Instagram

Episode 265

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

Instagram | Website

 

Ross Williams-Hirst

Instagram

 

Jack Williams-Hirst

Instagram

 

👉 FOLLOW US!

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Episode 262

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

Instagram | Website

 

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