From Chair to CEO

Amanda
  • 5.0 (1)
  • ENTREPRENEURSHIP

Ready to build a beauty business that doesn't just look successful—but actually feels aligned, profitable, and fulfilling? Welcome to From Chair to CEO—the podcast for ambitious salon owners, hairstylists, and beauty professionals who are ready to lead with intention, grow with strategy, and live with purpose. I’m Amanda Smearman—salon and spa owner, mentor, mom, and soon-to-be your favorite business bestie. After building two thriving beauty brands from the ground up, I’m here to share what actually works behind the scenes—from leadership and pricing to team culture, marketing, and mindset. Each week, we’ll dive into real conversations about salon ownership, building a booked-and-balanced life, leading a team with heart (and boundaries), and stepping into your role as a true CEO—without burning out or losing your spark. Whether you're behind the chair or building an empire, this podcast will give you the tools, encouragement, and tough love you need to grow. 💬 Business.💬 Leadership.💬 Life.Let’s talk about all of it.

Episodes

  1. 10/08/2025

    Why Your Team Isn't Growing

    If your team isn’t growing — no matter how many meetings, goals, or pep talks you have — this episode is for you. In Episode 2, I shares the truth most salon owners overlook: your team’s growth problem probably isn’t a people problem… it’s a systems problem. Through my own story of learning how to adapt coaching strategies to fit her salon’s culture, I reveals what actually creates consistent team growth: structure, realistic goals, and clear communication. You’ll learn how to create systems that support your team’s success instead of stifling it — and how to lead with both data and connection. 💡 What You’ll Learn in This Episode How to identify if your salon’s systems don’t match your team’s current season.Why coaching without connection leads to burnout and disengagement.The 3 hidden reasons your team isn’t growing (and how to fix each).How to build systems that fit your people, not force them into boxes.The simple leadership mindset shift that will change how your team performs.🧩 Key Takeaways “Your team can’t grow toward what they can’t see. Leadership isn’t about raising the bar higher — it’s about making sure your people can reach it.”“Data tells the story, but connection changes behavior.”“Growth doesn’t happen because you push harder — it happens because everyone finally understands the path.” 🔗 Resources + Links Download the Team Growth Audit Checklist  (Your free guide to identify what’s holding your team back and how to fix it.)Follow Amanda on TikTok Instagram → @amandasmearman ⭐️ If You Loved This Episode… Share it with a fellow salon owner who’s trying to grow their team the right way.Rate and review From Chair to CEO on Apple Podcasts or Spotify — your feedback helps other beauty pros find the show.Screenshot this episode, share it to your stories, and tag @amandasmearmanIf you loved this episode, don’t forget to hit that follow button so you never miss a moment of real talk, business tips, and inspiration to help you grow behind the chair and beyond. 💌 Want more? Download my free Client Experience Checklist → amandasmearman.com 🫶 Let’s hang out on IG → @amandasalonstylist Tag me in your takeaways or send a DM—I’d love to hear what resonated with you! Thanks for listening, and remember: You’re not just building a business—you’re building a legacy. 💜

    14 min

  2. 10/05/2025 · BONUS

    3 Ways to Fill Gaps in Your Books This Week

    Slow week? Empty gaps on the schedule? Instead of panicking or posting another “We have openings!” story that doesn’t convert — let’s fix it. In this quick minisode, I’m breaking down three simple, proven ways to fill those holes in your books this week without discounting your services or devaluing your brand. These are the same moves I use inside my own salon when we need a boost — and they actually work. You’ll walk away with the exact language to use, the mindset behind it, and one simple action step to take before the day ends. 💡 What You’ll Learn in This Minisode The “VIP Reach-Out” strategy that gets your favorite clients rebooked fast.How to use service spotlight stories instead of desperate posts.The power of add-on flash offers that increase revenue (without feeling like a sale).A 3-step action plan to fill your books this week.🔗 Resources + Links Get the Client Experience Toolkit  Includes ready-to-use scripts for rebooking, retail, add-ons, and follow-ups.Follow me on Instagram → @amandasalonstylist If you loved this episode, don’t forget to hit that follow button so you never miss a moment of real talk, business tips, and inspiration to help you grow behind the chair and beyond. 💌 Want more? Download my free Client Experience Checklist → amandasmearman.com 🫶 Let’s hang out on IG → @amandasalonstylist Tag me in your takeaways or send a DM—I’d love to hear what resonated with you! Thanks for listening, and remember: You’re not just building a business—you’re building a legacy. 💜

    5 min

  3. 10/01/2025

    Glow Back: The Power of Reinvention in Your Salon

    Is your salon feeling a little… stale? Maybe clients are in and out, your team seems flat, or your marketing hasn’t been updated in years. If that hits home, it’s time for a Glow Back. In this episode, I’m kicking off Season 2 of From Chair to CEO by sharing what the Glow Back really means — and how reinvention can reignite your salon’s energy, keep clients excited, and give your team a fresh sense of purpose. Whether it’s updating your client experience, shaking up your marketing, or re-energizing your team culture, small shifts can lead to big momentum. This isn’t about tearing everything down. It’s about honoring what works while finding fresh ways to shine. 💡 What You’ll Learn in This Episode Why reinvention is essential for long-term success in your salon.How to recognize when your business is due for a Glow Back.3 simple ways to reinvent: client experience, team energy, and marketing.Real-life examples from Shine & Glow’s journey (including our 10-year “Glow Back” countdown).🔗 Resources + Links Grab the Client Experience Toolkit  Follow me on Instagram → @amandasalonstylistIf you loved this episode, don’t forget to hit that follow button so you never miss a moment of real talk, business tips, and inspiration to help you grow behind the chair and beyond. 💌 Want more? Download my free Client Experience Checklist → amandasmearman.com 🫶 Let’s hang out on IG → @amandasalonstylist Tag me in your takeaways or send a DM—I’d love to hear what resonated with you! Thanks for listening, and remember: You’re not just building a business—you’re building a legacy. 💜

    14 min

  4. 05/30/2025

    The 3 Clients You’re Serving — And What Each One Actually Needs

    Not all clients are created equal — and treating them like they are could be the reason your rebooking is down, your retail isn’t moving, and your client retention is stuck. In this episode, I’m breaking down the three most common buyer types in your salon — and exactly how to adjust your consultations, service flow, and checkout conversations to connect with each one. You’ll learn: The difference between Loyalty Linda, Deal Hunter Dana, and Upgrade-Ready ReneeWhat each client type actually needs from you to stay loyal, spend more, and refer othersEasy scripting and service tweaks that boost trust, retention, and retail salesHow to stop sounding salesy and start selling with confidence🎁 Grab the free Retail Strategy Mini-Map mentioned in this episode: 👉 amandasmearman.com/freebies 📦 Want to go even deeper? Check out the Client Experience Toolkit and Complete Salon Scripting Guide inside my shop: 👉 amandasmearman.com/shop If you loved this episode, don’t forget to hit that follow button so you never miss a moment of real talk, business tips, and inspiration to help you grow behind the chair and beyond. 💌 Want more? Download my free Client Experience Checklist → amandasmearman.com 🫶 Let’s hang out on IG → @amandasalonstylist Tag me in your takeaways or send a DM—I’d love to hear what resonated with you! Thanks for listening, and remember: You’re not just building a business—you’re building a legacy. 💜

    13 min

  5. 05/23/2025

    The Consultation Is the Key: Why This Step Changes Everything

    Think consultations are just about asking what the client wants? Think again. In this episode, I’m sharing why the consultation is the most powerful tool in your business—not just for client results, but for retention, retail, boundaries, and your bottom line.I’ll break down how to lead the perfect consultation, what to ask, how to quote confidently, and how to protect yourself from miscommunication and complaints. Plus, I’ll share real-world examples, consultation prompts, and a sneak peek into my Complete Client Scripting Guide.Whether you're an independent stylist or leading a team, mastering this one phase can transform your business.🎧 Let’s level up your client experience—one conversation at a time.Mentioned in this episode: Download the Mini Consultation ChecklistGet My Complete Client Scripting GuideFollow me on IG @amandasalonstylistMore resources: amandasmearman.com If you loved this episode, don’t forget to hit that follow button so you never miss a moment of real talk, business tips, and inspiration to help you grow behind the chair and beyond. 💌 Want more? Download my free Client Experience Checklist → amandasmearman.com 🫶 Let’s hang out on IG → @amandasalonstylist Tag me in your takeaways or send a DM—I’d love to hear what resonated with you! Thanks for listening, and remember: You’re not just building a business—you’re building a legacy. 💜

    15 min

  6. 05/16/2025

    Stop Getting in Your Own Way — Self-Sabotage in the Salon Industry

    Are you unknowingly holding yourself back in your business? In this episode, Amanda pulls back the curtain on the subtle ways self-sabotage shows up in the beauty industry — from overbooking and undercharging to perfectionism and fear of being seen. If you’ve ever said “I just want to do hair, not run a business,” this episode will challenge you (lovingly) to get honest and take your power back. Learn how to shift from sabotage to strategy and start building the consistent, profitable business you actually want. If you loved this episode, don’t forget to hit that follow button so you never miss a moment of real talk, business tips, and inspiration to help you grow behind the chair and beyond. 💌 Want more? Download my free Client Experience Checklist → amandasmearman.com 🫶 Let’s hang out on IG → @amandasalonstylist Tag me in your takeaways or send a DM—I’d love to hear what resonated with you! Thanks for listening, and remember: You’re not just building a business—you’re building a legacy. 💜

    23 min

  7. 05/09/2025

    You Can't Scale What You Can't Track

    You're bringing in money… but where is it all going? In this episode, we’re cutting through the revenue smoke and mirrors and talking about what really matters: knowing your numbers. I’m diving into the budgeting systems I use as a salon owner, including principles from Profit First for Salons, and why tracking your income and expenses is just as crucial for independent stylists. If you’re ready to stop guessing and start growing with clarity, this one’s for you. If you loved this episode, don’t forget to hit that follow button so you never miss a moment of real talk, business tips, and inspiration to help you grow behind the chair and beyond. 💌 Want more? Download my free Client Experience Checklist → amandasmearman.com 🫶 Let’s hang out on IG → @amandasalonstylist Tag me in your takeaways or send a DM—I’d love to hear what resonated with you! Thanks for listening, and remember: You’re not just building a business—you’re building a legacy. 💜

    23 min

  8. 05/02/2025

    The Value is in the Experience: Why Clients Do Pay More

    In this episode of From Chair to CEO, Amanda breaks down why great work alone isn't enough to justify premium pricing in the beauty industry. Clients today are seeking more than just results—they're seeking connection, comfort, and consistency. Learn the five key touchpoints that build value, why system-based experiences convert better than talent alone, and how client retention and loyalty are directly tied to the experience you provide. Backed by industry stats and real-world examples, this episode is a must-listen for salon pros ready to elevate their pricing confidence and create a 5-star experience every time. What You’ll Learn: Why clients will pay more when the experience matches the priceFive key touchpoints that define client experienceStats on booking habits, consultations, and retentionSystems that support high-value client journeysHow to build loyalty and raise prices without losing trustMentioned in This Episode: Client Experience ToolkitHarvard Business Review: Customer Retention & ProfitSalon Today / Zenoti 2025 Beauty Benchmark ReportPhorest Client Retention GuideKenneth Shuler: Client ConsultationsIf you loved this episode, don’t forget to hit that follow button so you never miss a moment of real talk, business tips, and inspiration to help you grow behind the chair and beyond. 💌 Want more? Download my free Client Experience Checklist → amandasmearman.com 🫶 Let’s hang out on IG → @amandasalonstylist Tag me in your takeaways or send a DM—I’d love to hear what resonated with you! Thanks for listening, and remember: You’re not just building a business—you’re building a legacy. 💜

    14 min

  9. 04/25/2025

    Pricing Isn’t Personal—It’s a System

    Raise your hand if you’ve ever felt guilty about raising your prices 🙋‍♀️ In this episode, I’m breaking down why pricing should never be based on emotion—and how to build a system that supports your growth, your team, and your business goals. If you’ve been winging it with your menu, this is your episode. You’ll Learn: Why emotional pricing leads to burnout and resentmentThe 3 pillars of system-based pricingHow to create a pricing plan you can actually followThe #1 tool I use to build value and retention in the salon🎧 Grab your pen and notebook, because we’re turning numbers into confidence. All toolkit and free resources mentioned in this episode can be found here! If you loved this episode, don’t forget to hit that follow button so you never miss a moment of real talk, business tips, and inspiration to help you grow behind the chair and beyond. 💌 Want more? Download my free Client Experience Checklist → amandasmearman.com 🫶 Let’s hang out on IG → @amandasalonstylist Tag me in your takeaways or send a DM—I’d love to hear what resonated with you! Thanks for listening, and remember: You’re not just building a business—you’re building a legacy. 💜

    10 min

  10. 04/18/2025

    Why 'Charge Your Worth' Set Us Back—and What to Do Instead

    Why "Charge Your Worth" Set Us Back—and What to Do Instead The phrase “charge your worth” became a post-pandemic mantra in the beauty industry—but what if it’s not the advice we actually needed? In this episode, I unpack how that mindset blurred the lines between personal value and pricing strategy—and why it may have set us back more than it helped. You'll learn how to shift into value-based pricing so you can raise your prices with purpose, confidence, and long-term success. 🎁 Don’t miss the freebie! Download your Service Pricing Confidence Checklist to see if you're truly ready to raise your rates—and what to focus on if you're not quite there yet. Ready to elevate your client experience? Grab my Client Experience Toolkit today! If you loved this episode, don’t forget to hit that follow button so you never miss a moment of real talk, business tips, and inspiration to help you grow behind the chair and beyond. 💌 Want more? Download my free Client Experience Checklist → amandasmearman.com 🫶 Let’s hang out on IG → @amandasalonstylist Tag me in your takeaways or send a DM—I’d love to hear what resonated with you! Thanks for listening, and remember: You’re not just building a business—you’re building a legacy. 💜

    17 min

  11. 04/11/2025

    The Secret to Client Retention: Crafting a 5-Star Experience from Start to Finish

    Want more rebookings, better reviews, and guests who can’t stop talking about their visit? In this episode, I’m sharing how to create a client experience so seamless and personal, it keeps your books full and your team thriving. From the first online interaction to post-visit follow-up, we’ll break down each step of the guest journey—and I’ll give you real, actionable strategies to elevate the experience in a way that builds loyalty and boosts income. 💼 Ready to take the guesswork out of it? My Client Experience Toolkit is now available! It’s packed with everything you need to map out your journey, train your team, and elevate your systems—including consultation forms, rebooking and retail scripts, post-visit templates, and more. 🎧 Listen now and grab your toolkit here If you loved this episode, don’t forget to hit that follow button so you never miss a moment of real talk, business tips, and inspiration to help you grow behind the chair and beyond. 💌 Want more? Download my free Client Experience Checklist → amandasmearman.com 🫶 Let’s hang out on IG → @amandasalonstylist Tag me in your takeaways or send a DM—I’d love to hear what resonated with you! Thanks for listening, and remember: You’re not just building a business—you’re building a legacy. 💜

    22 min

  12. SEASON 1, EPISODE 1 TRAILER

    Episode 1: From Behind the Chair to CEO – What You Can Expect + Why I’m Here

    Welcome to the very first episode of From Chair to CEO—the podcast for ambitious stylists and salon owners who are ready to grow their business, lead with confidence, and live a life that feels just as good as it looks on Instagram. In this intro episode, Amanda shares why she felt called to start this podcast, what you can expect from future episodes, and how this space will support you in becoming the CEO of your beauty business—and your life. Whether you're behind the chair full-time or leading a team, this show is your go-to resource for real-talk, strategy, and inspiration. ✂️ In this episode: Why Amanda started this podcast after building two successful beauty businessesWhat to expect in future episodes (spoiler: strategy, mindset, leadership + more!)The real truth about growing a business in the beauty industryHow to step into your CEO era—without burnout or overwhelmA simple reflection to help you define what your version of success looks like💬 Your next step: Take a moment to reflect on this question: 👉 What does your CEO life look like? Then share this episode with a fellow stylist or salon owner who’s ready to grow, and don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode! 🔗 Links & Resources: Follow Amanda on Instagram: @amandasalonstylistLearn more about Amanda at AmandaSmearman.comWant to work with Amanda? Stay tuned for free resources & coaching offers coming soon!If you loved this episode, don’t forget to hit that follow button so you never miss a moment of real talk, business tips, and inspiration to help you grow behind the chair and beyond. 💌 Want more? Download my free Client Experience Checklist → amandasmearman.com 🫶 Let’s hang out on IG → @amandasalonstylist Tag me in your takeaways or send a DM—I’d love to hear what resonated with you! Thanks for listening, and remember: You’re not just building a business—you’re building a legacy. 💜

    6 min

Trailer

About

Ready to build a beauty business that doesn't just look successful—but actually feels aligned, profitable, and fulfilling? Welcome to From Chair to CEO—the podcast for ambitious salon owners, hairstylists, and beauty professionals who are ready to lead with intention, grow with strategy, and live with purpose. I’m Amanda Smearman—salon and spa owner, mentor, mom, and soon-to-be your favorite business bestie. After building two thriving beauty brands from the ground up, I’m here to share what actually works behind the scenes—from leadership and pricing to team culture, marketing, and mindset. Each week, we’ll dive into real conversations about salon ownership, building a booked-and-balanced life, leading a team with heart (and boundaries), and stepping into your role as a true CEO—without burning out or losing your spark. Whether you're behind the chair or building an empire, this podcast will give you the tools, encouragement, and tough love you need to grow. 💬 Business.💬 Leadership.💬 Life.Let’s talk about all of it.

Information

  • Creator
    Amanda
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    12
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2025 From Chair to CEO
  • Show Website
    From Chair to CEO