The Learners Voice’s Podcast

Belinda Hillman
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Real Stories, Real Learners, Real Inspiration. Tune in to Learners’ Voice Podcast and hair apprentices in the hair and beauty industry share their unique journeys, challenges, and successes. Their voices, their stories—amplified!

  1. YOU HAVE TO WANT IT A JOURNEY to world skills silver medal

    FEB 2

    YOU HAVE TO WANT IT A JOURNEY to world skills silver medal

    🎙️ The Learner’s Voice Podcast   Episode Title: Purpose & Perseverance with Shakaia Powell Host: Belinda Mindset Guest: Shakaia Powell – Level 3 Beauty Learner, WorldSkills Silver Medallist   ⸻   ✨ Episode Overview   In this inspiring episode of The Learner’s Voice Podcast, Belinda is joined by Shakaia Powell, a Level 3 Beauty learner from Coleg Gwent – Crosskeys Campus, who is already making waves in the industry.   With a Welsh Skills Bronze Medal and a WorldSkills Silver Medal to her name, Shakaia shares her journey from leaving sixth form to finding her confidence, passion, and purpose in beauty education. This conversation explores mindset, resilience, high standards, and what it really takes to succeed as a learner — both inside and outside the classroom.   We also proudly acknowledge Pivot Point, a global leader in digital learning and education development for the hair and beauty industry, whose ethical values, innovation, and global vision continue to shape the future of beauty education.   ⸻   🌍 About Our Partner: Pivot Point   Pivot Point is the driving force worldwide behind digital learning, education development, and premium educational tools for the hair and beauty industry. With a strong commitment to ethical manufacturing and social accountability, Pivot Point leads with integrity, innovation, and a learner-first mindset. We’re proud to partner with a company that champions education on a global scale.   ⸻   💬 What We Talk About in This Episode Leaving school, navigating pressure, and choosing a different path Why beauty education is challenging, stimulating, and often misunderstood How the right teacher can change everything Developing elite standards through competitions Behind-the-scenes competition tips (setup, transitions, timing & mindset) Turning mistakes into medals Training your model as part of your success strategy Dealing with grief, loss, and emotional resilience as a learner Finding motivation through purpose and perseverance Why it’s okay not to have everything figured out   ⸻   🏆 Competition & Excellence Takeaways   Shakaia shares practical, real-world advice for learners aiming to raise their standards: Prepare exactly how you plan to perform on the day Pre-roll, prep, and organise everything in advance Practice under timed conditions Learn to improvise when things go wrong Treat competitions like a performance — intentional, focused, and confident Client care and model training are non-negotiable   ⸻   ❤️ A Powerful Conversation on Resilience   Shakaia opens up about personal loss and grief, sharing how she channels pain into motivation rather than stopping. Her honesty offers reassurance to learners navigating emotional challenges alongside their education — a reminder that strength looks different for everyone.   ⸻   🌱 What’s Next for Shakaia? Completing Level 3 Beauty this summer Progressing to Level 4 Aspiring to work in a spa environment Continuing to grow as a professional with high personal standards   ⸻   📣 Shoutouts Kirsty Jones, lecturer and mentor, for believing, pushing, and inspiring A loyal competition model who played a key role in success All learners who are showing up, trying again, and trusting their journey   ⸻   🎧 Final Thoughts   This episode is a reminder that: You don’t need to have everything figured out Mistakes don’t define you — standards do The journey shapes who you become Your voice matters, and you matter   ⸻   🔗 Support for Learners   If you’re navigating grief or emotional challenges, Belinda has created a free reflective booklet available at Belindamindset.com — designed to help you find the words that match how you’re feeling.   ⸻   💛 Thank You for Listening   Thank you for listening to The Learner’s Voice Podcast, in collaboration with Belinda Mindset Education and Concept Hair. If you’re a mentor, educator, or salon owner and want to better support learners, visit blendomindset.com and explore the resources available in the store.   ✨ Your voice matters. Your journey matters. And you deserve to thrive Sponsor Colour me Safe   https://colourmesafe.com/?srsltid=AfmBOooY5LT-9L5K-LZLtvqRAJZyWJoSO9tgOOJjinpgucMXDZSKr3Ao

    21 min
  2. Yorkshire Hair & Barbering Compitition

    JAN 5

    Yorkshire Hair & Barbering Compitition

    🎙️ The Learner’s Voice Podcast   Live from Leeds City College – The First Yorkshire Hair & Barbering Competition   In this special on-location episode of The Learner’s Voice, we are recording live at Leeds City College, the venue for the first-ever Yorkshire Hair and Barbering Competition, bringing seven colleges together in a powerful celebration of education, talent, and learner voice.   This landmark event creates a platform for learners to step outside the classroom, showcase their skills, and build confidence through competition, collaboration, and community.   🌍 Episode Sponsor   Pivot Point   Pivot Point is a global leader in digital learning, education development, and premium mannequins for the hair and beauty industry. Through ethical manufacturing and strong social accountability standards, Pivot Point continues to shape the future of beauty education worldwide.   We’re proud to partner with a company driven by innovation, integrity, and a global vision for learning.   ✂️ What You’ll Hear in This Episode 🎓 Learners from seven colleges across Yorkshire sharing their real journeys 🏆 First-time competitors experiencing a live competition environment 💭 Honest conversations about confidence, nerves, comparison, patience, and pressure 🧠 How mindset education supports learner growth alongside technical skill 🙌 Shout-outs to tutors, mentors, and colleges championing learner success 🌱 Stories of finding passion, changing direction, and trusting the process 🚀 Big goals including apprenticeships, self-employment, salons, and brand careers   🧠 Mindset Meets Industry   This episode highlights why mindset, self-awareness, and resilience are just as important as scissors and clippers.   Learners openly reflect on how patience, belief, and the right support systems help them move forward — especially in high-pressure environments like competitions.   🤝 Supported By Belinda Mindset Education – Supporting learners and educators through mindset-focused education and industry-ready resources Concept Hair – Proudly supporting education and future talent within the hair and barbering industry   🧪 Additional Sponsor Feature   Colour Me Safe   Colour Me Safe is redefining patch testing for hair professionals with safer, smarter methods that use the actual product applied to the client. Fully UK compliant, insured, and designed to save time without compromising safety.   Visit ColourMeSafe.com to learn more.   🎧 Who This Episode Is For Hair and barbering learners Tutors, lecturers, and educators Salon owners and employers Anyone considering a career in hair or barbering Those who believe confidence and growth start with mindset   💡 Final Message   Your voice matters. Your journey matters. And wherever you’re starting from — you belong here.   If you’re a mentor, educator, or salon owner and want to support learners, visit 👉 BelindaMindset.com and scroll to the bottom of the store page to access free mindset resources you can use with your teams today.   🎙️ Thank you for listening to The Learner’s Voice Podcast. Celebrating learners. Building confidence. Creating opportunity   https://belindamindset.com/

    1h 12m
  3. Learners Live at Salon International: Inspiration from Across the UK

    12/01/2025

    Learners Live at Salon International: Inspiration from Across the UK

    I had the absolute pleasure of diving into the world of hair and beauty learners at Salon International 2025, and I left feeling inspired by the passion, determination, and creativity of these amazing students. In this episode, I share my conversations with learners from across the UK, including Kali, Molly, Ruby, Sophie, Mia, Soda, Isabella, and Jess, as they candidly reflect on their journeys in hairdressing and beauty therapy. Key Takeaways from This Episode: I learned that embracing challenges with a positive mindset can transform struggles into growth. I discovered that patience, persistence, and self-belief are essential in learning new skills, whether it’s perfecting foils, mastering pedicures, or finding your own signature style in treatments. I was reminded that building confidence, making meaningful connections, and celebrating small wins are just as important as technical skills. Most importantly, I saw that every learner’s journey is unique, and showing up authentically and staying passionate makes all the difference. Throughout our conversations, learners shared their highest highs—from the thrill of mastering a new technique, excelling in competitions, and finally feeling confident in their craft—to their lowest lows, which often included initial anxiety, challenging techniques, or self-doubt. Each learner had valuable advice for newcomers: take it slow, enjoy the process, embrace your individuality, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. Mentorship came up repeatedly as a cornerstone of success, with shout-outs to teachers and industry professionals who encouraged, guided, and inspired them along the way. From discussions about building confidence, pursuing further education, exploring creative treatments, and even dreaming about opening their own salons, this episode highlights that learning is a journey, not a destination. The energy, enthusiasm, and dedication these learners bring to their craft is infectious and a reminder that the hair and beauty industry thrives on curiosity, innovation, and resilience. Tune in to hear these inspiring stories, learn actionable tips, and celebrate the voices shaping the future of hair and beauty. Your journey matters, your voice matters, and this episode proves that the next generation of hair and beauty professionals is ready to shine.   https://belindamindset.com/

    28 min
  4. Finding your voice in The Beauty Industry

    11/03/2025

    Finding your voice in The Beauty Industry

    Episode Title: “Finding Your Creative Voice — with Makeup Artist Daniela Ramos”   The Learner’s Voice – Presented by Belinda Mindset in collaboration with Concept Hair Magazine Sponsored by Pivot Point UK   🎙️ Episode Summary   In this inspiring episode, host Belinda sits down with makeup artist and Harper College graduate Daniela Ramos, whose creative journey took her from painting with crayons as a child in Tenerife to working backstage on professional body-painting gigs and brand events across the UK.   Daniela shares how she found confidence through creativity, the power of resourcefulness, and why beauty is truly in the eyes of the beholder. From last-minute competition nerves to becoming a working artist with her own unique style, Daniela’s story is a powerful reminder that your voice — and your art — matter.   💡 Key Moments   04:12 — The crayon beginnings: Daniela’s first makeup experiments 08:45 — How nature and creativity shaped her path 12:30 — The WorldSkills competition journey 20:15 — “Beauty lies in the eyes of the beholder” — a lesson in confidence 25:40 — From Harper College to her first paid makeup gigs 33:10 — Landing creative work for major brands 36:20 — Daniela’s advice: Love yourself, trust yourself, and go for it.   🧠 In This Episode, You’ll Learn:   How to overcome creative self-doubt The importance of resourcefulness as an artist Ways competitions can open unexpected doors How mentorship and support shape a learner’s journey Tips for turning passion into a professional path 💬 Guest Bio: Daniela Ramos   Daniela Ramos is a UK-based makeup artist known for her expressive, nature-inspired designs and fearless creativity. A graduate of Harper College, Daniela has gone from college competitions to professional artistry, including creative collaborations, body painting, and live events. Her work blends innovation, imagination, and artistry — proving that true beauty comes from self-expression.   📸 Instagram: @danielaramosmakeup   💛 About the Show   The Learner’s Voice celebrates the journeys, struggles, and successes of students and young professionals in the beauty and creative industries. Hosted by Belinda Mindset, each episode shares authentic conversations designed to inspire confidence, self-belief, and growth.   Learn more at belindamindset.com

    40 min
  5. Bobbie-Jo’s Journey to Confidence and Success in Hairdressing

    10/06/2025

    Bobbie-Jo’s Journey to Confidence and Success in Hairdressing

    Welcome to the Learners Voice Podcast! I’m your host, Belinda Hillman, and today I had the absolute pleasure of sitting down with Bobbie-Jo from Newcastle College. She’s a rising star in the hairdressing industry, and in our conversation, we explore her journey, her achievements, and the lessons she’s learning along the way. Key Takeaways from this Episode: Pushing yourself outside your comfort zone can unlock new opportunities you never imagined. Confidence grows through practice, competitions, and the belief of supportive mentors. Finding balance between studies, work, and social life is key to thriving in college. Journaling and mindset tools can make a real difference in managing challenges and mental health. From starting out as a Saturday girl in her boyfriend’s mum’s salon, Bobbie-Jo quickly fell in love with the transformation that hairdressing brings to clients—the joy of watching someone leave the chair smiling brighter than when they arrived. Her ambition first led her to consider careers as varied as tattoo artistry and crime scene investigation, but her heart settled firmly on hair. Bobbie-Jo shares openly about why she chose the college route over an apprenticeship, how that decision gave her both structure and freedom, and how competitions—like World Skills and Concept Hair—helped her find confidence she never knew she had. She also talks about the pivotal role her lecturers, especially Jo and Amanda, played in nudging her to take risks and believe in herself. We also touch on Bobbie-Jo incredible achievement of winning Student of the Year at Newcastle College, an award that she initially couldn’t believe described her. Her story is a powerful reminder of how others often see our potential long before we do ourselves. What stood out most was Bobbie-Jo resilience, her willingness to keep trying even when things felt overwhelming, and her top tip for other learners: push yourself beyond your limits, not just to them. I can’t wait for you to hear this inspiring conversation and celebrate Bobbie-Jo journey. 👉 Tune in now to the Learners Voice Podcast and be inspired to push beyond your comfort zone too!

    24 min
  6. Winning Big with Jess Maundrell

    09/01/2025

    Winning Big with Jess Maundrell

    Special Guest: Jess Maundrell   In this episode, I had the absolute pleasure of sitting down with the incredibly talented Jess Maundrell—Concept Hair’s Overall Winner and Avant-Garde champion for 2025. At just 19 years old, Jess has already graced posters, magazine covers, and international competitions. Her journey is a true testament to what’s possible when passion, resilience, and creativity collide. From the very beginning, Jess knew hairdressing was her path. What struck me most in our conversation was her honesty about the struggles—questioning whether to pursue an apprenticeship or a full-time course, battling through self-doubt, and learning to push through the “bad days.” Her decision to follow her gut and stay at West Suffolk College became one of the best choices she’s ever made, and it shows in her results. We explored her love for avant-garde styling, her standout whale-tail design inspired by environmental themes, and the unique opportunities she’s embraced—from Concept Hair competitions to representing the UK at WorldSkills, even traveling to Japan to exchange skills with international students. Listening to Jess talk about stepping outside her comfort zone reminded me of the power of saying “yes” to opportunities, even when they feel scary. My Key Takeaways: Success in this industry isn’t just about skill—it’s about mindset. Jess reminded me that bad days don’t mean you’re on the wrong path; they’re part of the process. Trusting your gut can change everything. Choosing a full course at college when everyone else told her to do an apprenticeship was a defining moment in her career. Competitions aren’t only about winning—they’re about confidence, exposure, and building lifelong connections. Support systems matter. From mentors like Jo and her lecturers to friends and family, Jess thrived because she leaned on her network. Resilience and determination are what set extraordinary learners apart. Jess didn’t give up when things got tough—she kept practicing until she achieved her vision. I left our chat so inspired, not only by Jess’s talent but also by her humility and drive. She’s proof that age doesn’t define your impact—you do.

    24 min
  7. From Apprentice to Adventurer

    08/04/2025

    From Apprentice to Adventurer

    Special Guest: Morgan Brown Welcome to Learner’s Voice! I’m your host, Belinda Hillman, and today’s episode is one that’s incredibly close to my heart. I sit down with my own apprentice, Morgan Brown, for an honest, inspiring, and emotional conversation. From sweeping floors as a Saturday girl to making the bold decision to move to Australia, Morgan’s journey is proof that with passion, grit, and mindset—anything is possible. Morgan opens up about the influence of her mum and grandma in sparking her love for hairdressing, how school-based training gave her a powerful head start, and why an apprenticeship—not a classroom—was the key to her success. She shares the highs and the hard truths of the apprentice life: the ego, the burnout, the breakthroughs… and learning how to accept feedback without losing herself. We talk about her mindset transformation, her surprising decision to skip Level 3 (for now!), and what drove her and her partner Reese to book a one-way ticket to Australia. She didn’t just dream about it—she mapped it out with pen and paper, planned each step, and made it happen. From contacting salons on Instagram to fast-tracking her EPA before flying out, Morgan has truly shown what it means to take action. Key Takeaways: The first 6 months of an apprenticeship can make or break you—lean into support, ask for help, and keep pushing. Don’t let your ego get in the way of your growth—feedback is fuel. Use social media as a professional tool—it can open doors you never imagined. Planning with pen and paper can help declutter your mind and turn dreams into plans. Courage doesn’t always come with confidence—sometimes you leap anyway. Tune in to hear a real, raw, and motivating story that will inspire you to chase your goals—no matter how far away they seem. 🎧 Listen now on Spotify or Apple Podcasts. Subscribe, leave a review, and share with a friend who needs to hear this story!

    29 min
  8. From Side Hustle to Qualifications

    07/07/2025

    From Side Hustle to Qualifications

    In today’s episode, I sit down with the incredibly inspiring Heather Jane Wayne—an adult learner from Coleg Menai in North Wales—whose journey into hairdressing began not in a salon, but through sheer grit, self-teaching, and an unshakable desire to create something of her own. Heather didn’t take the traditional route. Originally studying to become a teacher, she started doing hair-up styles as a side hustle while working long hours as a care worker. That “side hustle” soon blossomed into a thriving bridal hair business—and opened the door to a complete career transformation. What struck me most was how Heather refused to let her circumstances define her. As a single mum to two children, one of whom has additional needs, she has consistently shown determination, heart, and a love of learning that radiates in everything she does. We talk about how she battled imposter syndrome, what gave her the courage to go back to college, and how competitions like UK Skills, Welsh Skills, and Concept Hair helped shape her confidence. She’s even been nominated for Student of the Year and is a finalist for multiple Purple Hearts Awards. Her honesty, energy, and growth mindset are infectious—and I know her story will ignite something in anyone who’s ever doubted themselves or wondered if it’s too late to start over. 🔑 Key Takeaways: You’re never “too old” or “too busy” to start again. A growth mindset and the willingness to say yes can open doors you never imagined. Self-belief doesn’t come first—it grows as you show up. Competitions, mentors, and community can fast-track both confidence and career. You can balance motherhood and ambition—with the right support and self-compassion. Tune in and get ready to be inspired by Heather’s journey from side hustle to a professional hairdresser with big dreams ahead. 💡 Let’s Connect: Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who needs a reminder that it’s never too late.

    26 min
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About

Real Stories, Real Learners, Real Inspiration. Tune in to Learners’ Voice Podcast and hair apprentices in the hair and beauty industry share their unique journeys, challenges, and successes. Their voices, their stories—amplified!

Information

  • Creator
    Belinda Hillman
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    14
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2025 All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    The Learners Voice’s Podcast