Heartland Presents- Let's Talk Tanning

Heartland Tanning Distribution

Welcome to "Heartland Presents - Let's Talk Tanning," the ultimate podcast for UV & Sunless Business owners and enthusiasts! Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting in the tanning industry, our mission is to educate, motivate, and inspire you. Join us as we bring you insights from industry experts, share the latest trends, and provide valuable information to help you grow and succeed. Tune in on your schedule and take your tanning business to the next level with "Let's Talk Tanning!"

  1. Sep 23

    Navigating Employee Termination with Joe Schuster

    Insights on handling difficult staff decisions in small businesses In this episode of Heartland Presents, Kristin Jackson and Joe Schuster tackle the challenging topic of employee termination. It’s a conversation many avoid, yet it’s essential for any small business owner. The Importance of Clear Expectations Joe emphasizes that employee termination often stems from unclear expectations set during the hiring process. When employees understand the standards—like dress code, attendance policies, and performance expectations—they are less likely to face termination. "Employee termination is an unavoidable responsibility for any small business owner. The process is most effective when expectations are clearly defined at the outset of the employment." — Joe Schuster Setting these parameters not only protects the business but also fosters a professional environment. The Communication Triangle Kristin brings up a compelling point about communication. Joe explains that different people absorb information in various ways, so it’s crucial to use multiple methods when conveying expectations: 1. Verbal Instructions: Clearly state what is required. 2. Written Documentation: Provide a written outline of the expectations. 3. Demonstration: Show how to perform tasks. This multifaceted approach ensures clarity for everyone involved. Hard and Fast Rules Kristin questions how small business owners can balance leniency with accountability. Joe shares his perspective that while some rules should be non-negotiable—like no-call, no-show incidents—others may warrant a second chance, depending on the context. Establishing a 30-60-90 day review can help track performance and offer opportunities for improvement. "What I see as hard and fast rules are the ones: no call, no show, that's a no-brainer." — Joe Schuster Dealing with Long-Term Employees The discussion takes a poignant turn when Kristin asks about long-term employees who suddenly underperform. Joe suggests having open conversations to understand any underlying issues. If a trusted employee begins to compromise the business’s integrity or reputation, it may be time for difficult decisions. "If there's some questionable finance work going on where you think that money was going out the door to that person, obviously unprofessional behavior is a deal breaker." — Joe Schuster Final Thoughts Navigating employee termination is never easy, but with clear communication and defined expectations, small business owners can handle it more effectively. Tune in to the full episode for deeper insights and practical guidance on this crucial topic.

    Navigating Employee Termination with Joe Schuster
  2. Aug 20

    The Affordable Skincare Line Built for Tanners, Wellness users, and Spray Tans

    Kristin Jackson welcomes Cole Johnson, founder of Haute & Co, for a conversation that moves from advocacy in Washington, DC to the future of skin and fragrance products designed for real-life clients with sensitive skin. You’ll discover: What Cole saw firsthand while meeting with ASA representatives Joe and Melinda in DC, including the nonstop work behind the scenes to protect the tanning industryWhy the American Suntan Association matters more than ever for salon owners facing legislation, regulation, and rising pressure on the businessHow Cole built Haute & Co from his own struggle with sensitive skin and psoriasis into a brand focused on fragrance, skincare, and wellnessThe thinking behind his color-coded packaging system, which makes it easier for staff and customers to understand exactly what each product doesWhy ingredients like bakuchiol, argeline, matrixyl peptides, and hyaluronic acid are becoming must-haves in modern at-home careHow his products are designed to work alongside UV tanning, red light therapy, spray tanning, and sauna services instead of competing with them Cole also shares the story behind standout products like Lumberjack and Haute Sol, plus the process of hand-formulating, packaging, and shipping every bottle himself. If you’ve ever wondered how to sell smarter, support your clients better, and build retail that actually fits the wellness era, this episode gives you a practical blueprint. This one is especially valuable for salon owners, managers, and staff who want to stay ahead of the curve with products that protect results, simplify education, and create new revenue without overwhelming the customer. It’s also a reminder that the right partnerships - with organizations like the ASA and with brands built by people who truly understand the industry - can make all the difference. Perfect for anyone who wants to keep clients coming back with products that feel relevant, effective, and easy to use. Come for the advocacy, stay for the product strategy, and leave with a fresh perspective on where this industry is headed next.

    The Affordable Skincare Line Built for Tanners, Wellness users, and Spray Tans
  3. Aug 7 ·  Bonus

    Why Clear Expectations Create Better Goals

    Most salon commission plans fail for one simple reason: they make success harder to understand, not easier to achieve. If you lead a salon team, this episode shows why clarity beats complexity every time and how to build goals people can actually follow. Tori Quanstrom breaks down the leadership mistake hiding inside complicated commission structures, where layered percentages, bonuses, thresholds, and “reward everything” logic can leave employees confused, scattered, and unmotivated. Instead of creating more drive, overbuilt systems often create more mental friction. You’ll discover: Why employees perform better when they can clearly see how their actions affect resultsThe danger of measuring too many goals at onceHow simplicity creates focus, action, and better performanceWhy attainable goals and small wins build confidence and momentumHow scoreboards, progress trackers, and public recognition keep motivation visibleWhy commission plans need regular review as your salon, team, and market change Tori also explains why leadership is not about saying the right thing once. It’s about reinforcing priorities until they become part of the culture. If your team seems disconnected, inconsistent, or unsure how to win, the problem may not be effort - it may be the system. This episode is especially valuable for salon owners, managers, and leaders who want stronger performance without adding more pressure or complexity. The takeaway is simple but powerful: when people understand how to win, they show up differently, and everyone benefits.

    Why Clear Expectations Create Better Goals

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

Welcome to "Heartland Presents - Let's Talk Tanning," the ultimate podcast for UV & Sunless Business owners and enthusiasts! Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting in the tanning industry, our mission is to educate, motivate, and inspire you. Join us as we bring you insights from industry experts, share the latest trends, and provide valuable information to help you grow and succeed. Tune in on your schedule and take your tanning business to the next level with "Let's Talk Tanning!"