Salon Stories
Episode 293
29 April 2025
Over the years, I’ve seen many salon businesses, and inevitably, some stand out more than others.
Some of them stand out because of the decor, others for the culture, some for their size and some for their success as a business.
My guest today is Meagan McCormack, President of Visible Changes salon group in Houston, Texas, which is without doubt an amazing business.
Meagan offers incredible insights on leadership, creating a positive culture, and the importance of authentic connection in today's salon environment. Whether you're running a large salon group or a small independent salon, Meagan's wisdom about adapting to change while staying true to your values will inspire you.
In today’s podcast, we discuss:
- How a salon group the size of Visible Changes has continued to evolve as a business.
- How they have adapted to suit the changing needs of today's workforce
- Why they are expanding more into the product side of the industry
And lots more!
IN THIS EPISODE:
[01:03] Setting up today’s conversation with Meagan McCormack
[02:24] Visible Changes: What's changed since 2019
[04:31] COVID’s impact and consolidating salon locations
[07:02] Meagan’s leadership transition and new role
[11:45] Creating a people-first, compassionate management approach
[17:12] The structure of the Visible Changes management team
[18:35] Challenges of being a young woman leading a large company
[23:00] The importance of authenticity and vulnerability in leadership
[26:00] Launching a new focus on product development
[31:30] Finding confidence and fighting imposter syndrome
[38:15] Big goals: Aiming for a $100 million business
[42:14] Celebrating top performers and incredible sales achievements
[45:12] The role of retail sales in stylist success
[46:29] Navigating the challenges of booth rental and Gen Z expectations
[49:48] How mentorship is key to building the next generation of salon professionals
[52:00] Final thoughts on leadership, evolution, and resilience
Want MORE to help you GROW?
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🆘 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
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They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast.
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Until next time!
Antony
RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
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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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Episode 288
25 March 2025
In this episode, I sit down with Sydney-based salon owner and colourist Kirby Lago. I’ve had the pleasure of watching her grow her business from a small salon to a thriving luxury business five times the size.
Kirby is a great example of combining the life of being a very active behind the chair hairdresser with being a true business visionary and being prepared to put in the hard work and personal sacrifices that go with it.
In today’s podcast, we discuss:
- How the modern salon of today is evolving
- Salon design, branding, and creating an unforgettable client experience
- How Kirby uses Instagram to grow her business and attract her ideal clients
- As well as finding the balance between family life and running a business
And so much more!
IN THIS EPISODE:
[00:00] – Intro: Welcome and podcast growth updates
[01:15] – Meet Kirby Lago: From small salon to luxury empire
[02:35] – Salon design for a high-end experience
[05:00] – The importance of branding and client perception
[07:09] – The transition to a color-focused salon for profitability
[10:28] – Why cutting skills are declining and how trends shape business
[14:19] – Hair restoration and holistic hair health services
[18:23] – Building the right team and outsourcing wisely
[23:09] – Salon culture: Setting expectations and maintaining a positive team
[25:50] – Why client experience is everything (and how to elevate yours)
[27:57] – Marketing and personal branding: How Kirby became the face of her business
[31:45] – Instagram strategy: The three content pillars that drive engagement
[35:49] – Balancing personal life with business and social media presence
[38:41] – Closing thoughts: Key takeaways for salon owners
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 285
4 March 2025
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:
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Episode 282
11 February 2025
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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Episode 280
28 January 2025
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
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👉 FOLLOW DINA DEMETRIOU!
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Episode 277
7 January 2025
In this episode I’m talking with Mikey Denton, a former salon owner who shares his personal story of transitioning from a hairstylist to a business owner.
Mikey discusses the pitfalls of relying on friends for business advice, the importance of getting everything in writing, and the impact of not understanding the financial and legal aspects of business ownership.
He candidly reveals his journey through bankruptcy, the lessons learned, and how he is rebuilding his life and career.
This episode offers valuable insights for aspiring salon owners on the importance of professional advice, meticulous planning, and cautious partnerships.
IN THIS EPISODE:
00:49 The challenges of transitioning to a salon owner
01:57 Introducing Mikey Denton: A cautionary tale
03:23 Mikey's journey: From opening to closing a salon
05:28 The downfall: merging businesses and legal troubles
13:41 Lessons learned: Business and friendship
18:25 Navigating bankruptcy and moving forward
25:46 Advice for aspiring salon owners
32:21 Final thoughts and farewell
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 275
24 December 2024
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
17 December 2024
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
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👉 FOLLOW GORDON MILLER!
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:
Hair Every Wear 3.0 – Collection video
Solage Meche – Hair Colouring Tool
👉 FOLLOW US!
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👉 FOLLOW ANGELO SEMINARA!
