Brazen and Bold: Real, Raw, and Radically Honest Conversations for Entrepreneurs and Small Business Leaders

Heather Harris
  • 5.0 (4)
  • CAREERS

Welcome to Brazen and Bold—the podcast that dares to say what others won't. Hosted by Heather Harris, a behind-the-scenes powerhouse at Spark Pro Global, this show is your go-to space for real, raw, and radically honest conversations with entrepreneurs, salon owners, and business leaders who are rewriting the rules of success. Each week, we pull back the curtain on what it actually takes to build a business—and a life—you're obsessed with. From game-changing wins to "why did nobody warn me about this?" disasters, we're covering it all. Whether you're a salon owner ready to scale, a small business CEO learning to lead, or a creative founder tired of the BS, you'll find strategies, stories, and straight talk that help you grow with confidence. Expect guest interviews packed with bold lessons, behind-the-scenes insights, and actionable takeaways—plus a few laughs and "did-they-really-just-say-that?" moments along the way. If you're ready to ditch perfection, own your CEO role, and build a business with brazen confidence—hit play. Perfect for: Salon owners, service-based entrepreneurs, and small business leaders (5-50 employees) Learn: Business growth strategies, leadership lessons, and real-life entrepreneurial stories Want more? Visit https://sparkproglobal.com/getstarted to get connected.

  1. How to Build a Salon That Wins in Any Economy with Jack Panico

    1 DAY AGO · VIDEO

    How to Build a Salon That Wins in Any Economy with Jack Panico

    What does it take to lead a multi-generational salon business while the beauty industry evolves faster than ever? In this episode of Brazen & Bold, Heather Torriente sits down with Jack Panico of Panico and founder of Heirs to Beauty to talk about legacy leadership, the future of salon retail, and what it really means to build a brand that supports salon owners and hairstylists. They dive into: •⁠  ⁠Why salon leadership today requires adaptability across generations •⁠  ⁠How AI in the salon industry can improve efficiency without sacrificing guest experience •⁠  ⁠The reality of professional haircare retail when products are everywhere (Amazon, big box, etc.) •⁠  ⁠Building deeper client connections through sincere communication and elevated service standards •⁠  ⁠Jack's "Heirs to Beauty" philosophy—and why stylists are the true heirs to the industry If you're a salon owner, stylist, or beauty business leader focused on team culture, retail sales, and guest experience, this episode is packed with practical insights and real talk. 🌐 Heirs to Beauty: www.heirstobeauty.com 🌐 Panico: https://www.panico.com/ Follow Jack: 📸 Instagram — https://www.instagram.com/jack_panico Branding and consistency are everything. Let Spark do the work for you—from setup to weekly execution. 👉 Talk to Spark » Spark Pro Global – sparkprosalon.com Spark Links: 📸 Instagram: @sparkproglobal — https://www.instagram.com/sparkproglobal 🔗 LinkedIn: Spark Pro Global — https://www.linkedin.com/company/spark-pro-global Heather's Instagram: 📸 @heather.tantrumsalon — https://www.instagram.com/heather.tantrumsalon

    45 min
  2. Unclaimed Millions: How L'Oreal's Level Program Can Explode Your Salon Growth

    3 FEB · VIDEO

    Unclaimed Millions: How L'Oreal's Level Program Can Explode Your Salon Growth

    In this power-packed episode of Brazen and Bold, Heather Harris sits down with the brilliant Beverly Shortt to uncover one of the biggest missed opportunities in the beauty industry: unused loyalty points. With over 700 million L'Oreal Level points expiring every year, Beverly reveals how salon owners can turn these points into real cash flow, business growth, education, technology upgrades, and even global team experiences. Together, Heather and Beverly break down: Why loyalty points should be viewed as cash, not freebies The worst way to redeem points (stop spending them on back bar!) The creative ways smart salons use points to incentivize clients and reward teams How L'Oreal's Level program is expanding into education, financial wellness, and tech support The crucial difference between being a customer and being a business partner Why most salons only use 20% of their software—and how to leverage the rest Two simple action steps salon owners must take this week to unlock growth How loyalty points have funded global team trips from Spain to Amsterdam to Rio How to support the important Texture of Change petition for textured hair education If you're ready to stop losing money, leverage vendor partnerships like a true CEO, and unlock the full power of the L'Oreal ecosystem, this episode is a must-listen. 🔗 L'Oreal Level Program: https://www.levelloyaltyrewards.com/ Follow Beverly: 💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/beverly-shortt-384a677/ Branding and consistency are everything. Let Spark do the work for you—from setup to weekly execution. 👉 Talk to Spark » Spark Pro Global – sparkprosalon.com Spark Links: 📸 Instagram: @sparkproglobal — https://www.instagram.com/sparkproglobal 🔗 LinkedIn: Spark Pro Global — https://www.linkedin.com/company/spark-pro-global Heather's Instagram: 📸 @heather.tantrumsalon — https://www.instagram.com/heather.tantrumsalon

    31 min

  3. 12 JAN · VIDEO

    Delegate to Elevate: How Salon Owners Scale with AI Without Losing Their Culture

    What happens when technology actually helps you lead better instead of pulling you further away from your people? In this episode of Brazen & Bold, Heather Harris sits down with salon owner Michaela Blissett Williams and tech innovator Vinay to explore how salons can scale with intention using AI—without sacrificing culture, connection, or leadership. They break down: • Why front desk burnout is one of the biggest growth blockers in salons • How AI can support (not replace) your team • What "scaling with intention" really looks like for modern salon owners • How delegation frees leaders to focus on people, not just systems • Real examples of increased bookings, better team retention, and healthier work environments This conversation is a must-listen for salon owners who want to grow smarter, protect their culture, and lead with confidence in a tech-forward industry. [salon] 718: https://www.salon718.com/ Rozie.AI: https://www.rozie.ai/ Follow Michaella: 📸 Instagram — https://www.instagram.com/michaella.bw/ 🔗 LinkedIn — https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaella-blissett-williams-54a23a29/ Follow Vinay: 🔗 LinkedIn — https://www.linkedin.com/in/vinaysukumar/?originalSubdomain=ca Branding and consistency are everything. Let Spark do the work for you—from setup to weekly execution. 👉 Talk to Spark » Spark Pro Global – sparkprosalon.com Spark Links: 📸 Instagram: @sparkproglobal — https://www.instagram.com/sparkproglobal 🔗 LinkedIn: Spark Pro Global — https://www.linkedin.com/company/spark-pro-global Heather's Instagram: 📸 @heather.tantrumsalon — https://www.instagram.com/heather.tantrumsalon @⁨Lucy Randall⁩ @⁨Jude Hannigan⁩ @⁨Von Uyvico⁩

    50 min

  4. 29/12/2025 · VIDEO

    Luxury in the Little Things: How to Elevate Guest Experience, Retention & Revenue (Without Selling Hard)

    What if the key to higher retention, stronger loyalty, and increased revenue wasn't a bigger service menu—but small, intentional moments of luxury? In this episode of Brazen & Bold, Heather Torriente sits down with Louis Hayes-Davies and Victoria Harrington of Daimon Barber to explore how guest experience, education, and skincare-grade haircare can completely transform the way salons and barbershops connect with clients. From scalp health and eye revitalization rituals to why education beats hard selling every time, this conversation dives into: •⁠  ⁠How tiny 2–3 minute enhancements can drive real revenue •⁠  ⁠Why skincare principles belong in hair and scalp care •⁠  ⁠How to increase perceived value without overwhelming your team •⁠  ⁠The role of trust, education, and human connection in a fast, AI-driven world If you're a salon owner, stylist, barber, or educator looking to elevate your guest experience without adding stress, this episode will shift how you think about service forever. Daimon Barber: https://www.daimonbarber.com/ Follow Louis: 📸 Instagram — https://www.instagram.com/louishayesdavies/ ✉️ Email — louis@daimonbarber.com Follow Victoria: 🔗 LinkedIn — https://www.linkedin.com/in/victoria-harrington-121412367/ ✉️ Email — victoria@daimonbarber.com Branding and consistency are everything. Let Spark do the work for you—from setup to weekly execution. 👉 Talk to Spark » Spark Pro Global – sparkprosalon.com Spark Links: 📸 Instagram: @sparkproglobal — https://www.instagram.com/sparkproglobal 🔗 LinkedIn: Spark Pro Global — https://www.linkedin.com/company/spark-pro-global Heather's Instagram: 📸 @heather.tantrumsalon — https://www.instagram.com/heather.tantrumsalon

    57 min
  5. When Authenticity Becomes Your Brand with Jenna Muehlenberg

    29/12/2025 · VIDEO

    When Authenticity Becomes Your Brand with Jenna Muehlenberg

    Double Boost Meets Flat Marvel – A Journey Through Vivid Hair, Salon Ownership, and Friendship Heather sits down with longtime friend and Goldwell National Artist Jenna Meulenberg, owner of Ruby Lou Salon, for a conversation that's equal parts inspiring and hilarious. From rebellious piercings in suburban Wisconsin to accidentally winning international competitions, Jenna shares her 21-year journey from receptionist to salon owner and national educator. Learn how she fought to keep her authentic look despite outdated dress codes, transitioned from solo suite loneliness to building a thriving team, and now balances four kids with salon ownership and a travel teaching schedule. Plus: the origin story of their legendary Academy nicknames, why Jenna made her husband take her maiden name, and Bob the cat's photobomb attempt. Whether you're contemplating salon ownership or just need a reminder that we're all figuring it out—this conversation delivers realness, laughs, and inspiration. Ruby Lu Salon: 🌐 Website: https://rubylusalon.com/ 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rubylusalon/ Follow Jenna: 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jennarubylu/ ✉️ Email: rubylusalon@gmail.com Branding and consistency are everything. Let Spark do the work for you—from setup to weekly execution. 👉 Talk to Spark » Spark Pro Global – sparkprosalon.com Spark Links 📸 Instagram: @sparkproglobal — https://www.instagram.com/sparkproglobal 🔗 LinkedIn: Spark Pro Global — https://www.linkedin.com/company/spark-pro-global Heather's Instagram 📸 @heather.tantrumsalon — https://www.instagram.com/heather.tantrumsalon

    45 min
  6. Meet Jude: The Force Behind Spark's Smartest AI Innovations

    17/12/2025 · VIDEO

    Meet Jude: The Force Behind Spark's Smartest AI Innovations

    In this episode of Brazen and Bold, Lucy Randall—COO of Spark Pro Global—steps in as guest host to spotlight one of the most transformative forces inside Spark: Jude, Spark's Tech Lead Executive and the mastermind behind our AI systems, chatbots, dashboards, websites, digital audits, and internal efficiency tools. From fixing washing machines as a kid to building Spark's internal AI assistant Roxy, Jude's story is a mix of curiosity, innovation, and pure problem-solving magic. Lucy and Jude dive into the behind-the-scenes systems that power Spark and their clients—from AI-driven reputation audits and custom chatbots to website builds that drive thousands of monthly visits without paid ads. They also explore leadership, communication, QA systems, reliability, and the trust-building strategies that allow the Spark tech team to collaborate seamlessly with business owners worldwide. If you're a salon owner, entrepreneur, or business leader searching for smarter systems, better client experiences, and AI tools that actually save time—this episode will blow your mind. Come meet the man helping businesses step into the future. Powered by: Spark Pro Global – sparkprosalon.com Spark Links: 📸 Instagram: @sparkproglobal — https://www.instagram.com/sparkproglobal 🔗 LinkedIn: Spark Pro Global — https://www.linkedin.com/company/spark-pro-global Heather's Instagram: 📸 @heather.tantrumsalon — https://www.instagram.com/heather.tantrumsalon

    32 min
  7. How AI Will Amplify Your Salon Team—Not Replace It

    05/12/2025 · VIDEO

    How AI Will Amplify Your Salon Team—Not Replace It

    In this episode of Brazen & Bold, Heather sits down with Paddy Monahan, Chief Product Officer at Phorest Salon Software, to unpack how an engineer from telecoms ended up obsessed with the salon industry—and why talking to customers is still the most powerful technology we have. Paddy shares the pivotal moment that pulled him away from writing code and into product strategy, how a quirky "startup soccer" tournament with Uber black cars became a beloved networking event, and why he's stayed in the beauty space for over a decade. He breaks down how Phorest co-builds features with salon owners, the real reason so many people think Facebook and Instagram ads "don't work," and how Phorest Ads Manager is helping salons turn $100 in ad spend into thousands in revenue. They also dive into AI in salons—not to replace people, but to amplify them—helping service providers be more consistent, more prepared, and more profitable without losing the human touch. 🔗 Phorest: https://www.phorest.com/ Follow Patrick: 🔗 LinkedIn — https://www.linkedin.com/in/patrick-monaghan-14934419/ ✉️ Email — paddy@phorest.com Branding and consistency are everything. Let Spark do the work for you—from setup to weekly execution. 👉 Talk to Spark » Spark Pro Global – sparkprosalon.com Spark Links: 📸 Instagram: @sparkproglobal — https://www.instagram.com/sparkproglobal 🔗 LinkedIn: Spark Pro Global — https://www.linkedin.com/company/spark-pro-global Heather's Instagram: 📸 @heather.tantrumsalon — https://www.instagram.com/heather.tantrumsalon

    52 min
  8. Turn Guests Into Superfans: Barry Quinn on Loyalty, Retention & Making Your Software Work for You

    27/11/2025 · VIDEO

    Turn Guests Into Superfans: Barry Quinn on Loyalty, Retention & Making Your Software Work for You

    In this Brazen & Bold episode, Heather sits down with Barry Quinn, President of Phorest North America, to talk about something every salon and spa owner cares about but doesn't always have time to optimize: loyalty and retention. Barry shares how he went from "terrible at mortgages" to spending 15+ years helping salons grow with Phorest, and why the best salons don't just hope guests come back—they build systems that practically guarantee it. You'll hear: •⁠  ⁠Why traditional "buy 9, get 1 free" loyalty is actually leaving money on the table •⁠  ⁠The story behind TreatCard and why treats beat discounts every time •⁠  ⁠The 3 Rs of loyalty at Phorest: referrals, rebooking, retail •⁠  ⁠How to coach your team with facts, not feelings using data and goals •⁠  ⁠Simple automations (like rebooking texts and Client Reconnect) that plug revenue leaks •⁠  ⁠How AI can help your team be more human, not less If you've ever wondered, "Am I actually using my software to grow my business—or just to book appointments?", this conversation will give you clarity, language to use with your team, and at least one action step to improve retention today. 🔗 Phorest: https://www.phorest.com/ Follow Barry: 👤 Profile — https://careers.phorest.com/people/1017001-barry-quinn 🔗 LinkedIn — https://www.linkedin.com/in/barry-quinn-81b12164/ 📸 Instagram — https://www.instagram.com/barry_dubliner Branding and consistency are everything. Let Spark do the work for you—from setup to weekly execution. 👉 Talk to Spark » Spark Pro Global – sparkprosalon.com Spark Links: 📸 Instagram: @sparkproglobal — https://www.instagram.com/sparkproglobal 🔗 LinkedIn: Spark Pro Global — https://www.linkedin.com/company/spark-pro-global Heather's Instagram: 📸 @heather.tantrumsalon — https://www.instagram.com/heather.tantrumsalon

    57 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
4 Ratings

About

Welcome to Brazen and Bold—the podcast that dares to say what others won't. Hosted by Heather Harris, a behind-the-scenes powerhouse at Spark Pro Global, this show is your go-to space for real, raw, and radically honest conversations with entrepreneurs, salon owners, and business leaders who are rewriting the rules of success. Each week, we pull back the curtain on what it actually takes to build a business—and a life—you're obsessed with. From game-changing wins to "why did nobody warn me about this?" disasters, we're covering it all. Whether you're a salon owner ready to scale, a small business CEO learning to lead, or a creative founder tired of the BS, you'll find strategies, stories, and straight talk that help you grow with confidence. Expect guest interviews packed with bold lessons, behind-the-scenes insights, and actionable takeaways—plus a few laughs and "did-they-really-just-say-that?" moments along the way. If you're ready to ditch perfection, own your CEO role, and build a business with brazen confidence—hit play. Perfect for: Salon owners, service-based entrepreneurs, and small business leaders (5-50 employees) Learn: Business growth strategies, leadership lessons, and real-life entrepreneurial stories Want more? Visit https://sparkproglobal.com/getstarted to get connected.

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