Grow My Salon Business Podcast

Antony Whitaker
Grow My Salon Business Podcast

I know that being in business isn’t always easy. Along with the many highs and ‘a ha’ moments it can sometimes be soul destroying, frustrating and a very lonely place to be. Being a business owner is one of life’s greatest educations and it gives you two clear choices, either you continually learn, adapt and grow, or you resist change, stagnate and perish. We live in ever changing and sometimes challenging times, so being informed and constantly inspired is more important than ever. Join Antony Whitaker talking to thought leaders on the business side of the hairdressing industry discussing insightful, provocative and inspiring ideas that matter. Get ready to learn, get ready to be challenged, get ready to be inspired and most importantly get ready to grow your salon business!

  1. 3 DAYS AGO

    269 (Re-release) A Tribute to the Life and Times of a True Hairdressing Legend - Trevor Sorbie

    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   RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:  Trevor Sorbie Website | Instagram | Facebook My New Hair Website Grow My Salon Business Website | Facebook | Instagram | TikTok

    1h 20m
  2. 5 NOV

    268 Can One Salon Management Software System Fill All Your Needs?

    There are many changes impacting the hair and beauty business, and one area that is impacting every industry is the continual advancement and use of tech, particularly the advancement of AI.  Today's guest is Sudheer Koneru, co-founder of Zenoti Salon Software. After a background working at Microsoft, Sudheer embraced semi-retirement, and after exploring yoga, meditation and the wellness industry, he became the owner of a small group of spas that incorporated salons, beauty, fitness and yoga.  Frustrated by the software solutions available at the time, Sudheer decided to develop his own, and Zenoti was the result.  Today Zenoti operates in over fifty countries in a total of approximately 30,000 businesses in the beauty and wellness industry.  In today’s podcast, we discuss:👉 The role of AI in the salon industry today👉 Predictions of the impact that AI will have in the immediate future👉 The advantages of having only one piece of software that handles everything from being a point of sale and booking platform to all your marketing, management and business analytics… And lots more! IN THIS EPISODE: [01:08] Introducing Sudheer Koneru and Zenoti [02:36] Sudheers transition from tech to beauty and wellness [12:25] The birth of Zenoti from Sudheers personal wellness journey [23:33] Discussing Zenoti's apps for both stylists and clients [35:12] AI's impact on the salon industry [43:32] Future predictions for AI in the salon industry [50:15] Conclusion and where to find Zenoti 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: Zenoti Website | Linkedin | Instagram   👉 FOLLOW US! Instagram | Facebook | Website

    51 min
  3. 29 OCT

    267 What it Takes to be a Hairstylist in the Top 5% of all Earners in the US with Maxwell Snow

    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 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 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: 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! Instagram | Facebook | Website 👉 FOLLOW MAXWELL! Instagram

    45 min
  4. 22 OCT

    266 You Can Still Have The Best Quarter Ever. Finish Strong!

    “How has your year been?” I can’t believe that it’s already the second half of October, but it is, and that means that we are well and truly into the final quarter of the year 2024! Now, if you cast your mind back to January of this year, in all probability, you had goals and ambitions for 2024… And regardless of whether you’ve had your best year ever [and some people have] or perhaps it’s been a year ‘business wise’ where you’ve been completely derailed.   Either way, as the saying goes, “It’s not over until the fat lady sings”, and so in this episode, we focus on the the importance of ‘finishing strong!’ IN THIS EPISODE: [01:21] Reflecting on the year [02:14] Finishing the year strong [03:32] Learning from challenges [05:15] Owning your business outcomes [05:33] Learning from mistakes [05:55] Honest appraisal of your business [07:41] Creating a stop-start-continue list [09:08] Opportunities in the last quarter [09:40] Promotions and strategies for year-end 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: The Salon Management Course   👉 FOLLOW US! Instagram | Facebook | Website

    11 min
  5. 15 OCT

    256 Is this a Co-Working Salon Model that Could Work for Everyone?

    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 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:   Williams & Hirst Instagram | Website   Ross Williams-Hirst Instagram   Jack Williams-Hirst Instagram       👉 FOLLOW US! Instagram | Facebook | Website

    55 min
  6. 8 OCT

    264 Maximizing Salon Success with Salon Management Software and AI with Lori Obiedzinski

    In today’s episode, I focus on ‘Salon Management Software’, and I’m talking with Lori Obiedzinski, originally a hairdresser she now works in the salon management software side of the industry. In this episode, we discuss how AI can streamline business operations and enhance client engagement, the importance of online booking, and the emerging trends impacting the future of salon management systems.     What to look for in a salon management system    The role of Artificial Intelligence in salon management software    How and why salon owners can and should get more out of their salon management software systems And lots more!     IN THIS EPISODE:   (02:29) Defining key terms and the competitive landscape of salon management software. (05:49) Choosing the right salon management software based on your needs. (08:00) Maximizing software utilisation and how most salons underutilise the available system functions. (12:19) The role of AI and automation in streamlining operations and enhancing client engagement. (17:39) Why it’s important to think of your salon software as an investment, not an expense (24:56) The rise of independent stylists and the impact of independent stylists on software development. (26:35) The importance of leveraging software for client communication (31:06) Debate: Removing the front desk and enhancing the client experience with mobile solutions. (38:08) Adapting to COVID and the innovations that stuck afterwards (47:17) Thoughts on the future trajectory of salon management systems     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:   ROSY SALON SOFTWARE Instagram |  Website   AURA SALON SOFTWARE Instagram | Website     👉 FOLLOW US! Instagram | Facebook | Website

    51 min
  7. 1 OCT

    263 Stepping Away from Behind the Chair: Are You Ready?

    Whether it’s on social media or podcasts or articles that I read, It seems to me that the goal of salon owners everywhere is to leave the floor. I don’t think it’s inevitable, but there seems to be a point in the lives of many salon owners where they say that they want to step away from being behind the chair.  But there’s a problem, and the problem is that often, the reason that they can’t step away from behind the chair is because they’re the salon's number one earner. So what’s the solution? Let’s begin by looking at how they ended up in this position in the first place.  Tune in to learn how to redefine your role as a salon owner so that you set your business up for long-term success.   IN THIS EPISODE:   (00:00) Welcome to the Grow My Salon Business Podcast (01:49) The dilemma of stepping away from the chair (03:24) Understanding the root cause of the problem (05:47) Building a sustainable salon business (08:56) The role of a salon owner (09:56) Free management resources and upcoming masterclass (10:50) Conclusion 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/  🙏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:   The Salon Management Checklist - Download here 4 Essential Lessons In Salon Management - Join the FREE Masterclass here     FOLLOW US!   Instagram | Facebook | Website

    11 min
  8. 24 SEPT

    262 Empowering the Next Generation of Stylists with Martha Lynn Kale

    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: https://www.instagram.com/growmysalonbusiness/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/growmysalonbusiness Website: https://growmysalonbusiness.com/ FOLLOW MARTHA LYNN KALE! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marthalynnkale/ Website: https://mirrormirroraustin.com/

    44 min

About

I know that being in business isn’t always easy. Along with the many highs and ‘a ha’ moments it can sometimes be soul destroying, frustrating and a very lonely place to be. Being a business owner is one of life’s greatest educations and it gives you two clear choices, either you continually learn, adapt and grow, or you resist change, stagnate and perish. We live in ever changing and sometimes challenging times, so being informed and constantly inspired is more important than ever. Join Antony Whitaker talking to thought leaders on the business side of the hairdressing industry discussing insightful, provocative and inspiring ideas that matter. Get ready to learn, get ready to be challenged, get ready to be inspired and most importantly get ready to grow your salon business!

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