The Hair Hustle Podcast

Heather Podlesney
  • 0.0 (0)
  • MARKETING
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Welcome to The Hair Hustle Podcast, where business meets beauty! Hosted by Heather Podlesney, a salon coach with over 20 years of industry experience, over a decade of coaching market leading salons, and passion for helping stylists succeed, this podcast is your go-to resource for mastering the business side of the salon industry. Each week, we cover practical tips on budgeting, time management, retail strategies, and promotions to help you grow your profits and run a thriving salon business. Whether you’re behind the chair or behind the scenes, tune in to learn how to hustle smarter, not harder!

  1. 5D AGO

    Episode 82: The Realities of Building a Small-Town Hair Business and Navigating Social Media with Chelsea Downs

    Contact Heather: helloheatherpod@gmail.com Contact Chelsea: FB - Chelsea Downs IG- @cookeville_hairgirl_ TT-@chelsea.tnhairstylist In this episode, Chelsea Downs, known as the Cookville Hair Girl, shares her journey of over 20 years in the cosmetology industry, highlighting the challenges and rewards of running a small-town salon and building a social media presence. Whether you're a new stylist or a seasoned pro, Chelsea's insights on affordability, branding, and industry realities are invaluable. Key TopicsThe importance of owning and operating a small-town salon while maintaining authenticityWhat “affordable hairstylist” really means in different regionsBalancing profitability with accessibility for everyday clientsThe impact of social media on small-town hairstylists and brand buildingHow to handle negative comments and online criticismStrategies for growing social media followers and securing brand dealsThe behind-the-scenes truths about salon income versus perceived glamorous lifestylesManaging hours and double-booking as an independent stylistThe importance of community referrals and local reputationPractical tips for content creation and engaging potential clients online Timestamps:00:00 - Introducing Chelsea Downs: The Affordable Hairstylist from Cookville, TN 02:01 - Chelsea’s journey in the industry and her small-town roots 04:45 - Debunking stigma around work hours and salon profitability 07:11 - Defining “affordable” and balancing accessibility vs. profit 09:28 - Pricing strategies in different regions and client income realities 11:02 - Breaking down household income to understand client budgets 13:34 - The misconception of needing to charge high prices for success 15:16 - The value of understanding client income percentages when setting prices 17:20 - The reality of making six figures in the industry and work-life balance 20:45 - Managing salon hours, double-booking, and workload 22:57 - The challenges and advantages of working five days a week 27:35 - Small-town pros: referrals and community reputation 28:00 - The awkwardness of running into clients outside the salon 32:00 - Handling negative comments and criticisms on social media 37:42 - The pressure and advantages of building an online presence 44:17 - Creating engaging social media content and the importance of hooks 48:26 - Comparing drugstore products to professional brands honestly 51:20 - Growing social media followers and brand collaborations 54:12 - The importance of storytelling and authenticity on social platforms 58:36 - The glamorous image of hairstyling versus industry realities 59:41 - Behind-the-scenes challenges like damaged sinks and taxes 61:16 - Owning your space vs. renting: the true responsibility 62:35 - Chelsea’s tips for success and future plans Mentioned in this episode: www.heatherpodlesney.com/contact www.heatherpodlesney.com/knowyournumbers www.heatherpodlesney.com/contact

    1h 6m

  2. APR 28

    Episode 81: Shopping for a New Brand in Your Salon and Not Sure Where to Start? Surface Hair HAS YOU with Sean and Cassy!

    Summary In this episode of the Hair Hustle podcast, Heather Podlesney hosts representatives from Surface, Sean Carlson and Cassie Laub, to discuss industry insights, brand support, retail strategies, and upcoming events. They share valuable tips for salon owners and stylists to thrive in a competitive market, emphasizing the importance of education, brand partnerships, and strategic planning. CONTACTS: Heather: helloheatherpod@gmail.com Cassy: claub@surfacehair.com Sean: scarlson@surfacehair.com LINKS: Retreat: Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Hair Hustle Podcast 01:24 Meet the Surface Team 06:10 State of the Industry: Challenges and Opportunities 14:06 The Importance of Brand Support 21:26 Questions to Ask Your Brand 27:58 Finding the Right Brand and Distributor 34:50 The Emotional Connection to Products 39:56 Navigating Brand Loyalty in Salons 45:43 The Importance of Awareness and Responsibility 51:06 Thriving vs Surviving Salons 57:16 Identifying Survival Mode in Salon Owners 01:00:39 Connecting with Support for Salons 01:04:10 The Importance of Partnership in the Beauty Industry 01:05:40 Wellness Sanctuary Retreat: A New Experience 01:08:03 Spilling the Tea: Insights from the Brand Side 01:16:01 Surface's New All-In Product Launch 01:22:38 Introducing Surface Unscripted: A New Podcast 01:25:45 How to Connect with Surface Team Keywords hair industry, salon retail, brand support, Surface, salon success, retail strategies, industry insights, salon coaching, Surface Unscripted, salon events

    1h 25m

  3. APR 21

    Episode 80: FIVE Money Mistakes I See Independent Stylists Make

    Summary In this episode, Heather Podlesney discusses the five common money mistakes that hairstylists make annually, offering practical advice to improve financial health and avoid stress during tax season. Perfect for independent stylists looking to work smarter and create a sustainable income. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Common Money Mistakes 03:34 Mistake 1: Confusing Revenue with Income 04:49 Mistake 2: Not Setting Aside Taxes 06:07 Mistake 3: Pricing Without Knowing Your Numbers 08:12 Mistake 4: Treating Business Money as Personal Money 10:44 Mistake 5: Avoiding Your Numbers Keywords hairstylist finance, money mistakes, tax tips, independent stylist, budgeting, pricing, financial planning, salon business

    12 min

  4. APR 14

    Episode 79: If your Retail Sales Stinks Right Now - LISTEN TO THIS

    Grab the Retail PROMO Playbook for $37 HERE Contact Heather - helloheatherpod@gmail.com Summary This episode explores effective spring retail strategies for salon owners, emphasizing the importance of timely promotions, resetting retail displays, and leveraging seasonal buying behaviors to boost sales. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Spring Retail Promotions 02:49 Understanding Consumer Behavior in Spring 05:51 Creating Effective Retail Promotions 08:57 Spring Promotion Ideas and Strategies 14:32 The Importance of Incentives in Retail Keywords salon retail, spring promotions, retail reset, salon marketing, retail strategies, beauty industry, retail tips, salon business, seasonal sales, retail promotions guide

    17 min

  5. APR 7

    Episode 78: Tax Series - Why You Still Feel BROKE!

    Contact Heather to set up a salon class OR coaching: helloheatherpod@gmail.com Grab the ULTIMATE Independent Stylist Workbook HERE for only $37 Summary This episode addresses the common misconception that busy equals profitable for stylists, especially during tax season. It offers practical advice on understanding where your money goes, organizing finances, and improving profitability beyond just working hard. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Hair Hustle Podcast 00:29 Navigating Tax Season: A Reality Check 02:23 Understanding Profitability vs. Busyness 05:06 Organizing Your Finances for Success 07:59 Tools for Financial Clarity and Stability Keywords stylist finances, tax season, profitability, money management, independent stylist, financial organization, salon business, tax tips, budgeting, income tracking

    9 min

  6. MAR 31

    Episode 77: Tax Series - How to Pay Yourself as an Independent Stylist

    Contact Heather: helloheatherpod@gmail.com Summary This episode guides independent stylists on how to effectively pay themselves and organize their finances during tax season. Heather Podlesney shares practical tips on setting up accounts, mindset shifts, and creating a stable income system. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Hair Hustle Podcast 00:57 Understanding Tax Season for Independent Stylists 02:21 The Mindset Shift: From Stylist to Business Owner 05:41 How to Pay Yourself as an Independent Stylist 09:12 Organizing Your Finances for Stability Keywords independent stylist, pay yourself, business finances, tax season, salon owner, financial organization, money management, income stability

    11 min

  7. MAR 24

    Episode 76: The Tax Series - THREE Numbers Every Stylist Should Know for Tax Season

    Contact Heather: helloheatherpod@gmail.com Summary In this episode, Heather Podlesney breaks down the three key numbers independent stylists need to know before tax season. She offers practical tips on setting income goals, understanding expenses, and estimating tax payments to reduce financial stress and boost confidence. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Hair Hustle Podcast 01:00 Navigating Tax Season for Stylists 02:10 Understanding Your Income Goal 05:59 Calculating Monthly Costs and Expenses 08:28 Tax Percentages and Saving for Taxes 12:05 Mindset and Confidence in Business Keywords hair stylist, tax season, income goals, expenses, self-employment taxes, financial planning, salon business, independent stylist, money management, tax tips

    13 min

  8. MAR 17

    Episode 75: If I Saved ZERO for Tax Season So Far (here is exactly what I would do)

    Tax Season Prep for Stylists: Organize, Plan, and Execute with Confidence: In this episode of the Hair Hustle Podcast, Heather Podlesney breaks down practical steps for freelance stylists and small business owners to prepare for tax season — even if they feel unorganized or overwhelmed. Learn how to avoid panic, get clear on your numbers, and work effectively with tax professionals. Key Topics:The common anxiety around approaching tax season, especially for independent stylistsThe importance of not panicking and maintaining a clear head to assess financialsHow to organize your expenses and income to be ready for tax filingThe role of a tax professional and why hiring one is criticalCreating a plan based on your income and expenses, including quarterly paymentsStrategies to estimate taxes owed if you have no savings yetHow payment plans and extensions can help manage tax liabilitiesBuilding a system of awareness around your finances for future tax seasonsThe importance of patience and self-compassion in managing money Timestamps:00:00 - Why tax season can cause anxiety for stylists 00:27 - The importance of staying calm and not panicking 00:53 - Common mistakes and misconceptions about taxes in the industry 01:18 - How to get clear on your finances and organize your numbers 02:15 - The importance of working with a tax professional instead of DIY 03:11 - Understanding income, expenses, and planning for taxes 03:41 - Tips for estimating how much you owe and setting aside funds 04:12 - Creating a tax-saving system and staying ahead for future years 05:09 - Paying quarterly estimates and how to set up your business properly 06:21 - Adjusting payments and planning for tax year-end liabilities 07:47 - How to use professional help to set up payment plans and extensions 09:07 - Addressing changes in family or business situation that affect taxes 10:03 - Final reminders: stay informed, plan ahead, and reach out for professional help 10:32 - Action steps: organize your financial records and find a tax pro 11:01 - Encouragement to build awareness around money and reduce shame Connect with Heather: helloheatherpod@gmail.com Let this episode be your turning point for stress-free tax planning. Remember, understanding your numbers is the key to building a more confident and organized business. Reach out if you have questions — you’re doing an amazing job!

    11 min
See All (83)

Trailer

About

Welcome to The Hair Hustle Podcast, where business meets beauty! Hosted by Heather Podlesney, a salon coach with over 20 years of industry experience, over a decade of coaching market leading salons, and passion for helping stylists succeed, this podcast is your go-to resource for mastering the business side of the salon industry. Each week, we cover practical tips on budgeting, time management, retail strategies, and promotions to help you grow your profits and run a thriving salon business. Whether you’re behind the chair or behind the scenes, tune in to learn how to hustle smarter, not harder!

Information

  • Creator
    Heather Podlesney
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    83
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2026 Heather Podlesney
  • Show Website
    The Hair Hustle Podcast

You Might Also Like