Thriving Stylist Podcast

Ever feel like you're stuck in the endless cycle of "do it all yourself" as a salon owner? Have you thought about bringing on employees or booth renters but feel overwhelmed by all the legal jargon and don't know where to start? Today, we're diving into the nitty-gritty of hiring in the salon industry, and I’m specifically sharing the 5 things you absolutely need before you hire your very first employee.  In this episode, we're cracking the code on what it really takes to expand your team: from understanding what you can actually afford to a little tough love about what hiring means for your time and energy. Plus, we'll talk about how to make sure your online presence is attracting the right talent and set you up for long-term growth.  As we’re currently in the middle of our Leadership Bootcamp Training, I realized this is a topic we've never fully explored on the podcast, so let's get into it!  Thriving Leadership Method hands salon owners a step-by-step strategy to implement an irresistible culture and crea

Are you a stylist who hasn't raised your prices in years, feeling the pinch and wondering where to even begin? Do you suspect you're dramatically below market value, even though your schedule is packed? Today, we tackle a question submitted by a listener just like you: what do you do when the business model for hairstylists has fundamentally changed, and what worked five, seven, or even ten years ago simply doesn't now? In this episode, we take a candid look at the numbers and a clear path forward, designed to help you confidently adjust your pricing and revitalize your business without apology. It's time to stop feeling insecure and guilty; it's time to thrive. If you haven't raised your prices in five, seven, or even two years, and you're realizing it's time but don't know where to start, this episode is for you. It's time to re-evaluate and put together a plan to take action with confidence!  Thriving Leadership Method hands salon owners a step-by-step strategy to implement an irresistible culture and crea

Are you tired of those pesky credit card processing fees eating into your profits? Wondering if passing them on to clients is the right move for your business? This episode was inspired by another question from a listener, and we're diving deep into the hot (and often complex!) topic of credit card surcharges.  Today, we’ll explore what clients really think about these fees and whether it's becoming the new norm or a major turn-off. Get ready for crucial updates on the ever-changing regulations and legalities surrounding processing fees, broken down state by state, and a whole lot more.  I’m here to help you navigate this landscape, weigh your options, and make an informed decision that truly benefits your business. Don't miss out on understanding how these changes could impact your bottom line and client relationships!  Thriving Leadership Method hands salon owners a step-by-step strategy to implement an irresistible culture and create a powerful growth path…all while setting themselves up for structure and

As you know, Instagram is always changing, and if you're a stylist or salon owner, you NEED to stay on top of it. Today, I break down the top 5 (okay, maybe 6!) crucial Instagram updates from the last year that are absolutely relevant to our industry right now. These Instagram updates might seem small, but they hold serious power when you know how to use them. Whether you're aiming to refine your client acquisition, boost engagement, or simply work smarter, these actionable insights are designed to help you build the wealthy life you're dreaming is possible. I can't wait to see which of them you try and test, and let us know how they work for you!  Thriving Leadership Method hands salon owners a step-by-step strategy to implement an irresistible culture and create a powerful growth path…all while setting themselves up for structure and profit, and you can join the waitlist NOW at www.thrivingstylist.com/thrivingleadershipmethod/!  With Grow My Clientele Calculator, you’ll get instant clarity on how many new c

This week on the podcast, I dive deep into something I know has been on everyone's mind: the "One Big, Beautiful Bill Act" (OBBBA). It's a mouthful, but trust me, what's inside this bill, signed into law on July 4, 2025, is going to impact our industry!  I'm not a CPA, but I've been doing my homework, researching, and listening to the experts I trust. My goal is to break down exactly how this massive bill is going to impact stylists and salon owners specifically. We're cutting through the noise and focusing on the parts and pieces that will most directly affect your business and your pockets. My hope is to help you understand how these changes can reduce your taxable income and empower you with the tools and information to plan your financial future. If you’re ready to start working on a gameplan for this, please “Play” now and let's go!  Thriving Leadership Method hands salon owners a step-by-step strategy to implement an irresistible culture and create a powerful growth path…all while setting themselves up

Are you ready for an episode that's all about YOU? Ever wondered why stylists are leaving salons in droves, or what truly makes them press "apply" on a job listing? This week, we're diving deep into the honest, unfiltered feedback from stylists just like you, revealing what's really happening in our industry. I'm sharing incredible insights gleaned from thousands of responses. We cover everything from outdated salon decor and the pitfalls of "we're like a family here" culture, to the surprising shift in what benefits stylists actually want (hint: it's not just higher commission anymore!). Plus, you'll discover why some of the most talented stylists feel punished for their success and what truly attracts high achievers. This conversation isn't just about problems; it's packed with solutions and a clear roadmap for salon owners and stylists alike. I want to help you understand the pulse of our industry right now and equip you with the knowledge to make your next move, whether you're hiring or seeking your dream

What if everything you've been told about running your business is actually holding you back? In this "spicy" episode, I'm pulling back the curtain on some uncomfortable truths about common salon business strategies, and sharing with you the popular leadership advice I’d NEVER follow!  In this episode, I dive deep into critical topics like understanding commission structures, the real impact of service fees, whether pre-booking and retail sales are truly the best metrics for stylist promotion, and a whole lot more.  This conversation is all about empowering you to think critically about your business, optimize your revenue and profit, and ensure your operational choices are genuinely setting you up for rapid growth. Press “Play” and let's challenge some industry norms together! Thriving Leadership Method hands salon owners a step-by-step strategy to implement an irresistible culture and create a powerful growth path…all while setting themselves up for structure and profit, and you can join the waitlist NOW at

Are you a salon owner constantly feeling that squeeze, wondering why your best stylists might be eyeing the door? Listen, the urgency is here, right now, for salon owners to build phenomenal environments for our teams. That's exactly why, today, we're diving deep into what's really happening in our industry, uncovering the critical shifts you absolutely must make if you want to do more than just survive, and you want to truly thrive. Stylists have access to all the independent business education they could ever want. So, what's going to make them choose your salon? You've got to offer something those highly driven, highly motivated stylists can't get anywhere else. And honestly, it all comes back to leadership. The way salon owners make money has radically changed since even 2015, and this entire episode is dedicated to breaking down exactly what that looks like for you, right now. Thriving Leadership Method hands salon owners a step-by-step strategy to implement an irresistible culture and create a powerful

Have you ever wondered what really goes on behind the gleaming facade of "successful" salons? Do you sometimes feel like you're the only business owner silently struggling, putting on a brave face for social media? I'm telling you, from coaching 17,000 stylists and salon owners, I've seen it all, and it's given me a unique perspective to answer those exact questions. Today, I'm sharing everything I've learned on my journey, along with the incredibly raw feedback I've received from all of you. In this episode, we're taking an honest look at the functional and structural mistakes and regrets that are so common in our industry. We're tackling the lowest lows that no one talks about, including all the stuff that never makes it to Instagram. And listen, this isn't about shaming you; it's about connecting, learning, and empowering you to build a more resilient and truly thriving business. So, if you're ready for the unfiltered reality that will set you free, go ahead and press play! Thriving Leadership Method hands

Have you ever wondered what it really takes to lead a salon, especially when thrown into the deep end? This is a situation I know all too well from my personal experience, and today I'm going to pull back the curtain and tell you about my rough start becoming a salon leader.  In this episode, I reveal how I started in salon leadership and why I really needed to work hard due to some of the choices that were made for me as I entered the role. Get ready to hear the messy, challenging, and ultimately transformative beginning of my salon leadership journey… This isn't your typical leadership story; it's a raw, honest account of navigating immense pressure, learning on the fly, and building a thriving team from a truly rough start!   Thriving Leadership Method hands salon owners a step-by-step strategy to implement an irresistible culture and create a powerful growth path…all while setting themselves up for structure and profit, and you can join the waitlist NOW at www.thrivingstylist.com/thrivingleadershipmethod/

As you can probably tell from the title of this episode, things are about to get vulnerable here on the podcast today, as I reveal how very recently I almost gave up and completely shut down Thrivers. In this episode, I want to share the untold story behind my darkest leadership low. From chaotic team expansion and communication breakdowns to the silent sabotage of misaligned visions, it all brought me to the brink of selling my company… Fast forward to today, and I am at a place where I feel like I am awake again and I want to talk about hard things differently. If you're navigating the messy middle of growth right now, I hope the leadership lessons that I learned will empower you to identify red flags, make tough decisions, and build your thriving enterprise.  Thriving Leadership Method hands salon owners a step-by-step strategy to implement an irresistible culture and create a powerful growth path…all while setting themselves up for structure and profit, and you can join the waitlist NOW at www.thrivingsty

We’re coming to you live from XClub Retreat 2025 in Texas, and bringing you something special today. I’m sitting down with Kaytlin Garland, a salon owner chosen for the "hot seat" with Joey Coleman, an incredible author and renowned retention expert who spoke at the retreat. Kaytlin and I dive deep into this experience and the transformative insights she gained from it, and the entire retreat as a whole.   In this episode, Kaytlin reveals how she's refining her target market and streamlining her client journeys. You'll hear about the surprising clarity that came from holding a mirror up to her business, and so much more. This episode is packed with actionable strategies that will inspire you to elevate your own salon, create more time freedom, and build an unbeatable guest experience! With Grow My Clientele Calculator, you’ll get instant clarity on how many new clients you’ll need to hit your 2025 financial goals! Enter just four numbers, and this tool will show you exactly how many new guests you need monthl

Are you a salon owner feeling stuck in old routines, secretly wishing for a breakthrough? Get ready, because I have a full circle moment to share. Almost a year ago now, I released a podcast episode called the #ThrivingStylist60 Experience for Hairstylists & Salon Owners, which was a challenge to stylists on growth. What I was not expecting was the incredible impact it had on my life personally, and today I'm coming back with a new challenge for salon owners. If you’re a salon owner who has been searching for the key to unlock new levels of leadership, team connection, and consistent marketing, then prepare to be inspired. This isn't just another podcast episode; it's an invitation to transform, and I’m so excited you are joining me on this journey!  With Grow My Clientele Calculator, you’ll get instant clarity on how many new clients you’ll need to hit your 2025 financial goals! Enter just four numbers, and this tool will show you exactly how many new guests you need monthly and yearly to reach your targ

Have you ever wondered why talented hairstylists are packing up and saying goodbye to established salons? Stylists are leaving mediocre salons for amazing ones, as often happens in an economic downturn, and today, I want to share with you the real reasons why stylists are doing this. Forget the myth that it's all about studio suites and making more money. I want to talk about the underlying issues pushing stylists to seek new opportunities. You’re witnessing an evolving salon landscape, and what I reveal today will help you safeguard your business and focus on what truly makes a salon a thriving and desirable home for top talent.  I don't want you to get left behind in this industry shift, so let’s get started on future-proofing your business and career! With Grow My Clientele Calculator, you’ll get instant clarity on how many new clients you’ll need to hit your 2025 financial goals! Enter just four numbers, and this tool will show you exactly how many new guests you need monthly and yearly to reach your targ

Ever feel like you're throwing darts at a pricing board blindfolded? We need to have a bigger conversation about all the pricing models that are out there, because some of these pricing models or methods can deeply affect your business, for better or for worse. I dove deep into researching this topic, and today, I pull the curtain back on the 7 pricing models that are actually out there and reveal with you what I’ve learned.  My hope in sharing this information is that you can make an educated decision when it comes to your own pricing decisions. So, if you are ready to ditch the pricing panic and finally understand the strategies that will actually fuel your thriving business, press play…your bottom line will thank you!  With Grow My Clientele Calculator, you’ll get instant clarity on how many new clients you’ll need to hit your 2025 financial goals! Enter just four numbers, and this tool will show you exactly how many new guests you need monthly and yearly to reach your target income. No guesswork or compli

Did you just get a surprise tax form you weren't expecting? Are your Venmo, PayPal, or even salon software tips suddenly under the IRS microscope?  If you are a stylist or a salon owner that uses Venmo, PayPal, Apple Pay, Cash app, Tippy etc. and this has happened, then this episode is one you need to listen to.  Today, I discuss the 1099-K form that a lot of stylists were not expecting when it came time to do their taxes, along with the new laws that have come into effect, which I don't believe was widely reported. More importantly, we'll discuss how to prepare NOW to avoid a financial shock come tax season. If you are ready to get ahead of the curve and ensure your hard-earned money stays where it belongs, then today’s show has the information you need to navigate this evolving landscape and protect your business! With Grow My Clientele Calculator, you’ll get instant clarity on how many new clients you’ll need to hit your 2025 financial goals! Enter just four numbers, and this tool will show you exactly how

Are you trying to make sense of the buzzword "tariffs" and what they could actually mean for your salon or stylist career? So much about the tariffs are changing in real time, and I’ve only reported on tariffs once in a previous episode of this podcast, but today I dig a little deeper based on information that’s now available at the time of recording. These tariffs are a complex issue, and so much of this is scary because our administrations are still in negotiations. It is my hope that after today things are a little bit clearer on how tariffs can affect you, because as always, I want to give you the information that will help you navigate the tariff terrain and make the best decisions for you and your business.  With Grow My Clientele Calculator, you’ll get instant clarity on how many new clients you’ll need to hit your 2025 financial goals! Enter just four numbers, and this tool will show you exactly how many new guests you need monthly and yearly to reach your target income. No guesswork or complicated ma

Feeling the pressure of a shifting economy with more client cancellations and stretched-out appointments, many stylists have been tempted to lean on discounts and loyalty programs to keep their chair full. Are these the right strategies to be using, or are they just surface-level solutions? Today, I break it all down and work the math to show how using these types of things really play out for your business in the long-run.  I hope this episode arms you with the perspective and knowledge to make the right decision, so you can determine if the financial impact of offering these incentives makes sense for you, or if it will just lead to you working hard with a full chair and making less money!  With Grow My Clientele Calculator, you’ll get instant clarity on how many new clients you’ll need to hit your 2025 financial goals! Enter just four numbers, and this tool will show you exactly how many new guests you need monthly and yearly to reach your target income. No guesswork or complicated math required, and you c

Have you ever felt the sting of a competitor trying to snatch your hard-earned clients? Are you battling the creeping fear of what I refer to as "Ninja Turtle" stylists who undercut your prices and poach your loyal clientele? Even if it’s something that you may not have experienced yet I want to talk about it, because it is becoming a very real trend in this industry.  In this episode, I break it all down and discuss the client poaching trend, what it means and how to handle it. If you’re ready to stop playing defense and start building your kingdom, then what I share today will help you turn wannabes into irrelevant noise and cultivate a clientele that can't be stolen!  With Grow My Clientele Calculator, you’ll get instant clarity on how many new clients you’ll need to hit your 2025 financial goals! Enter just four numbers, and this tool will show you exactly how many new guests you need monthly and yearly to reach your target income. No guesswork or complicated math required, and you can get it now at www.t

Are you feeling the shift? Is "charging your worth" leaving you and your clients feeling...unfulfilled? What if the key isn't about emotional pricing, but about genuine perceived value? Today we go deep into the "worth it" era, and look at how the rising cost of living and changing client expectations are reshaping the salon industry as we know it.  In this episode, I share how people are still spending money, but they're spending money in the places that are worth it to them. So, are you ready to move beyond offering just luxury snacks and good consultations so that you can position yourself as the clear choice to your clients? Hit “Play” now and let’s go!  With Grow My Clientele Calculator, you’ll get instant clarity on how many new clients you’ll need to hit your 2025 financial goals! Enter just four numbers, and this tool will show you exactly how many new guests you need monthly and yearly to reach your target income. No guesswork or complicated math required, and you can get it now at www.thrivingstylis