Beyond The Salon Chair

Natasha Edwards

Beyond the Salon Chair is a podcast filled with candid conversations, fun, tips and personal stories that explore well-being, and personal expression. Whether you're a fellow stylist or someone who simply loves great hair, it is your go to source for everyone, delivered with a dose of humour and a whole lot of heart.

  1. Authenticity and Integrity: The Cornerstones of Conscious Leadership

    FEB 3

    Authenticity and Integrity: The Cornerstones of Conscious Leadership

    In this episode, Natasha welcomes leadership and wealth mentor Julie Hobbin, who shares her transformative journey from a career in accountancy to becoming a champion of conscious leadership. Julie discusses her early experiences with ineffective management and how they inspired her to pursue a path of better leadership practices. Julie emphasizes the importance of self-awareness, integrity, and the interconnectedness of personal and professional growth. KEY TAKEAWAYS Self-Awareness is Crucial: Understanding oneself and recognizing habits is essential for personal growth and effective leadership. Self-awareness allows individuals to identify what aspects of their behavior serve them and which do not. Authenticity and Integrity: Being authentic means being true to oneself, but it must be coupled with integrity. Authenticity without integrity can lead to negative behaviors, while integrity provides a moral compass for decision-making. Embrace Change: Change can be challenging, but it is often necessary for growth. The mindset with which one approaches change—whether viewing it as hard or easy—can significantly influence the outcome. The Importance of Reputation: Reputation is built on both personal actions and online presence. It is crucial to be aware of how one is perceived by others, as this can impact opportunities and relationships. Coaching vs. Mentoring: Mentors have experience in the specific area you want to learn about, while coaches focus on unlocking your potential through questioning and reflection.  BEST MOMENTS "When leaders wake up to who they really are, they start consciously creating results, their organizations, and their wealth." "One comment, one statement, one word, can ruin everything. Once we've said something, you cannot take it back." "There are a lot of people out there that may be scared to... they're in that safety net and security and just think, 'Oh, I can't do that.'" "Our feelings are our choice. We make our choices from either a reaction to something or a response." "When we change, we are the one that becomes the alien to everybody around us who's always known us." OUR LINKS ⁠www.exquisitesalon.co⁠ ⁠https://www.instagram.com/exquisite1hbs/⁠ HOST BIO Natasha is a seasoned hairdresser with over 14 years of experience in the beauty industry, renowned for her passion, skill, and dedication to her craft. Specializing in creating personalized, stunning styles, she has worked with clients of all hair types, consistently earning a reputation for boosting confidence and empowering individuals through their hair transformations. Natasha’s approach combines creativity with precision, ensuring each client feels valued and understood. Natasha looks to share insights from the world of hairstyling, creativity, and inspiration, alongside real conversations and meaningful discussions This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. ⁠https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

    1h 23m
  2. Empowering Change: How AI Can Enhance Human Rights Advocacy with Dana Shdeed

    JAN 27

    Empowering Change: How AI Can Enhance Human Rights Advocacy with Dana Shdeed

    In this episode, Natasha welcomes Dana Shdeed, an accomplished AI human rights researcher with over 20 years of experience in international development projects. Dana shares her inspiring journey from her early career in Lebanon, where she witnessed the impact of war on human rights, to her current focus on integrating AI with human rights objectives.  KEY TAKEAWAYS Passion for Human Rights: Dana's journey into human rights began with her early experiences in Lebanon, where she witnessed the impact of conflict on society. This motivated her to advocate for human rights and sustainable development goals. Integration of AI and Human Rights: Dana emphasizes the importance of aligning artificial intelligence with human rights objectives. She believes that AI can empower individuals and enhance the ethical use of technology in society. Educational Journey: Dana's academic path includes a degree in computer engineering and ongoing PhD studies focused on AI for human rights. Her mother's encouragement to pursue higher education played a significant role in her commitment to lifelong learning. Future Plans: Dana is developing the World Human Conscience Framework, which aims to promote conscience-based decision-making in various sectors, including business and NGOs. This initiative seeks to bridge personal values with universal principles to enhance social impact. Consultancy and Training: Dana offers consultancy and training programs to help businesses measure their social impact. She provides initial free consultations to introduce her framework and assist organizations in understanding the value of their contributions to society. BEST MOMENTS "AI is now being used everywhere and we need to make sure that it works in alignment with the human rights objectives and that it continues to boost human rights." "You need to feel it to know it. You need to do it to know it. And I think that if it's something on your mind, try it." "Sometimes we have to live through things to really get the passion for it." "What is missing is conscience-based decision-making... It's that voice inside of you that tells you this is right and this is wrong." "I want to bring that into that space... to ensure that what we are providing is fit for purpose for as many as possible of the target audience we're working with." OUR LINKS ⁠www.exquisitesalon.co⁠ ⁠https://www.instagram.com/exquisite1hbs/⁠ HOST BIO Natasha is a seasoned hairdresser with over 14 years of experience in the beauty industry, renowned for her passion, skill, and dedication to her craft. Specializing in creating personalized, stunning styles, she has worked with clients of all hair types, consistently earning a reputation for boosting confidence and empowering individuals through their hair transformations. Natasha’s approach combines creativity with precision, ensuring each client feels valued and understood. Natasha looks to share insights from the world of hairstyling, creativity, and inspiration, alongside real conversations and meaningful discussions This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. ⁠https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

    41 min
  3. Finding Fulfilment: Vaida Stone's Journey from Financial Advisor to Empowering Speaker

    JAN 20

    Finding Fulfilment: Vaida Stone's Journey from Financial Advisor to Empowering Speaker

    In this episode, Natasha welcomes Vaida Stone, an international speaker, author, and founder of the Always Enough Method. With over 25 years of experience in education and finance, Vaida shares her journey of discovering the deep connection between mind, heart, and money. Vaida discusses the importance of financial literacy, particularly for women, and how childhood experiences shape our relationship with money.  KEY TAKEAWAYS Connection Between Mind, Heart, and Money: The Always Enough Method emphasizes the importance of aligning one's emotions, mindset, and financial well-being to achieve true fulfillment and happiness. Financial Literacy Gaps: Many educational systems fail to teach essential personal finance management skills, leaving individuals unprepared to handle their finances effectively in adulthood. Childhood Influences on Financial Attitudes: Early experiences and family discussions about money significantly shape an individual's relationship with finances, impacting their confidence and financial decisions later in life. Challenges and Resilience: Personal challenges, such as losing parents at a young age and navigating divorce, can serve as catalysts for growth and empowerment, motivating individuals to seek financial independence and inspire others. Practical Guidance and Resources: The speaker offers practical tools and resources, including a workbook and a masterclass, to help individuals, particularly women, improve their financial literacy and foster healthier relationships with money. BEST MOMENTS "Sometimes it's not about how much money you're earning, but if your heart doesn't feel whole, you don't feel enough as a personality." "If you don't have a foundation, how can you understand how everything is working?" "There are a lot of people listening who actually may have financial fulfillment but might not still be happy." "Money is not math. We need to look deeper into our relationship with money." "You can be fulfilled and whole only if you connect your mind, heart, and money." TO PURCHASE VAIDA’S BOOK https://www.amazon.co.uk/Always-Enough-Achieve-Financial-Freedom/dp/B0C7T1V2NJ OUR LINKS ⁠www.exquisitesalon.co⁠ ⁠https://www.instagram.com/exquisite1hbs/⁠ HOST BIO Natasha is a seasoned hairdresser with over 14 years of experience in the beauty industry, renowned for her passion, skill, and dedication to her craft. Specializing in creating personalized, stunning styles, she has worked with clients of all hair types, consistently earning a reputation for boosting confidence and empowering individuals through their hair transformations. Natasha’s approach combines creativity with precision, ensuring each client feels valued and understood. Natasha looks to share insights from the world of hairstyling, creativity, and inspiration, alongside real conversations and meaningful discussions This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. ⁠https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

    46 min
  4. The Power of Energy: Uplifting Clients Behind the Salon Chair

    JAN 13

    The Power of Energy: Uplifting Clients Behind the Salon Chair

    In this solo episode, Natasha delves into the crucial topic of the energy stylists bring to their work behind the chair. Natasha emphasizes the profound impact that a stylist's energy can have on clients, who often seek not just a haircut but an uplifting experience during their visit. KEY TAKEAWAYS Energy Impact: The energy that stylists bring to their work is crucial, as it significantly affects the client's experience and overall mood during their visit. Client Connection: Understanding the emotional state of clients is important; some may share their struggles while others may not, but all clients benefit from an uplifting atmosphere. Self-Care for Stylists: Stylists must prioritize their own well-being and recharge to ensure they can provide positive energy to their clients. Clientele Attraction: The energy of a stylist influences the type of clients they attract; high-energy stylists may draw in lively clients, while calm stylists may appeal to those seeking a more relaxed experience. Salon Environment: The ambiance of a salon, including music and overall atmosphere, plays a significant role in shaping the energy and experience for both clients and stylists. BEST MOMENTS "The energy that you bring as a stylist behind the chair is so, so, so important." "It's not just about doing the hair... it's more to do with the feeling on how they're made to feel." "The energy that you attract behind the chair is so, so important for your business, for your communication, for attracting customers." "If you're a high impact type of person, you more than likely can relate and will attract somebody of the same energy as yours." "Be aware of the energy that you are bringing to the table, to the chair, to the salon, to the environment that you're in." OUR LINKS ⁠www.exquisitesalon.co⁠ ⁠https://www.instagram.com/exquisite1hbs/⁠ HOST BIO Natasha is a seasoned hairdresser with over 14 years of experience in the beauty industry, renowned for her passion, skill, and dedication to her craft. Specializing in creating personalized, stunning styles, she has worked with clients of all hair types, consistently earning a reputation for boosting confidence and empowering individuals through their hair transformations. Natasha’s approach combines creativity with precision, ensuring each client feels valued and understood. Natasha looks to share insights from the world of hairstyling, creativity, and inspiration, alongside real conversations and meaningful discussions This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. ⁠https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

    12 min
  5. Mastering the Art of Consultation: Elevating Customer Experience in the Beauty Industry

    JAN 6

    Mastering the Art of Consultation: Elevating Customer Experience in the Beauty Industry

    In this solo episode, Natasha delves into the essential art of consultation within the beauty industry. Natasha emphasizes the importance of thorough consultations for every customer, highlighting how these interactions not only enhance the salon's reputation but also ensure that clients receive the right services tailored to their needs. KEY TAKEAWAYS Importance of Consultation: A thorough consultation is essential for understanding customer needs and providing the right service, which enhances the salon's reputation and customer satisfaction. Listening to Pain Points: Identifying and addressing the customer's pain points is crucial. This involves actively listening to their concerns and desires, whether related to hair, beauty treatments, or emotional well-being. Personalized Approach: Each consultation should be tailored to the individual, considering factors like face shape, lifestyle, and personal preferences. Even long-term clients should be consulted to explore potential changes or updates to their style. Staying Updated with Trends: Professionals in the beauty industry must keep abreast of the latest techniques, trends, and technologies to provide informed suggestions and enhance the consultation process. Human Interaction vs. Technology: While technology, such as AI booking systems, can streamline processes, the human aspect of consultation remains irreplaceable.  BEST MOMENTS "It's important that you have a thorough consultation with every customer that comes through the door." "As hairdressers, we are the hair doctors... There is a pain that somebody is having, whether it's a hair problem or they're feeling down emotionally." "You need to know what the new techniques are yourself... it will just make your consultation so much stronger." "I strongly believe that human interaction will always outdo any technology." "In the beauty industry, we are doctors repairing their pain, their agony, their emotional distress." OUR LINKS ⁠www.exquisitesalon.co⁠ ⁠https://www.instagram.com/exquisite1hbs/⁠ HOST BIO Natasha is a seasoned hairdresser with over 14 years of experience in the beauty industry, renowned for her passion, skill, and dedication to her craft. Specializing in creating personalized, stunning styles, she has worked with clients of all hair types, consistently earning a reputation for boosting confidence and empowering individuals through their hair transformations. Natasha’s approach combines creativity with precision, ensuring each client feels valued and understood. Natasha looks to share insights from the world of hairstyling, creativity, and inspiration, alongside real conversations and meaningful discussions This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. ⁠https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

    16 min
  6. Unlocking Your Potential Through the Power of Memory with Donna Lane

    11/25/2025

    Unlocking Your Potential Through the Power of Memory with Donna Lane

    This inspiring episode of Beyond the Salon Chair features award-winning jewellery entrepreneur and personal development expert Donna Lane. Donna details her remarkable career journey, starting with her time at L'Oreal, where she spearheaded groundbreaking marketing campaigns, such as flying clients to Paris on Concorde. She also candidly shares her personal struggles, including recovering from a toxic relationship and navigating the difficulties of motherhood after multiple miscarriages. KEY TAKEAWAYS Personal Development Journey: The guest emphasises the importance of personal development, sharing experiences with renowned figures like Joe Dispenza, Paul McKenna, and Tony Robbins, which helped shape her understanding of the mind and its potential. Overcoming Adversity: She discusses her journey of escaping a toxic relationship and the challenges of being a single parent, highlighting the significance of self-love and seeking help during difficult times. The Power of Memory: The concept of the "Remembering Technique" is introduced, which focuses on using memory to manifest positive outcomes in life. Manifestation through Visualisation: The guest explains how visualising positive experiences, such as a holiday, can lead to actualising those experiences in real life. Practical Application: The guest shares her personal success stories, including overcoming obstacles to achieve her dream home and helping others through the Remembering Technique, demonstrating its effectiveness in various aspects of life.   BEST MOMENTS "I managed to have a child at 45, which again broke all the records." "The first and foremost, which I didn't realise, was to go get help." "You are what you think you are, and you are right." "I was with a fantasist narcissist... You think you're going mad because you know, and obviously it's never your fault." "The mind cannot tell the difference between imagined and reality."   OUR LINKS ⁠www.exquisitesalon.co⁠ ⁠https://www.instagram.com/exquisite1hbs/⁠   HOST BIO Natasha is a seasoned hairdresser with over 14 years of experience in the beauty industry, renowned for her passion, skill, and dedication to her craft. Specializing in creating personalized, stunning styles, she has worked with clients of all hair types, consistently earning a reputation for boosting confidence and empowering individuals through their hair transformations. Natasha’s approach combines creativity with precision, ensuring each client feels valued and understood. Natasha looks to share insights from the world of hairstyling, creativity, and inspiration, alongside real conversations and meaningful discussions This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. ⁠https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

    23 min
  7. From Shampoo Girl to Business Consultant: Natasha Johnson Journey in Hair and Beauty

    11/11/2025

    From Shampoo Girl to Business Consultant: Natasha Johnson Journey in Hair and Beauty

    Please Check Out Our Sponsor: https://www.theupliftacademy.com/ In this episode of Natasha welcomes industry expert Natasha Johnson, who brings over two decades of experience in the hair and beauty sector. Natasha shares insights on the future of the industry and hints at exciting developments on the horizon, inviting listeners to connect with her on Instagram for updates. KEY TAKEAWAYS Industry Experience: Natasha has over two decades of experience in the hair and beauty industry, beginning her career at a young age and progressing from junior roles to salon management and business consulting. Education and Business Balance: She emphasizes the importance of combining creative education with commercial growth, highlighting that the beauty industry requires both artistic skills and business acumen to succeed. Human Connection: Natasha believes that the hair and beauty industry is fundamentally about human interaction and personal touch, which cannot be replaced by technology or AI. AI in the Industry: While acknowledging the potential benefits of AI for administrative tasks, such as online booking systems, Natasha expresses concern about its limitations in practical, hands-on services that require a human touch. Future Plans: Natasha hints at exciting developments in her career for the upcoming year, encouraging listeners to follow her on Instagram for updates, while also acknowledging the challenges of managing multiple social media platforms. BEST MOMENTS "I often think in our industry, we're very creative and we forget the business side of stuff. I don't think it should just be a labor of love. We're here to make money too." "I think often people come into our industry imagining that it's very easy. And it is absolutely not. It is not an easy, a lazy or a stupid option as many people think." "We are in an industry that's people to people, and I think it's really important we don't lose that human touch." "I mean, we're touching people, we're touching the hair... the practicality of our industry, I don't see AI fitting in it." "I can see definitely the benefits of [AI], but also I find it just quite terrifying." OUR LINKS www.exquisitesalon.co https://www.instagram.com/exquisite1hbs/⁠ HOST BIO Natasha is a seasoned hairdresser with over 14 years of experience in the beauty industry, renowned for her passion, skill, and dedication to her craft. Specializing in creating personalized, stunning styles, she has worked with clients of all hair types, consistently earning a reputation for boosting confidence and empowering individuals through their hair transformations. Natasha’s approach combines creativity with precision, ensuring each client feels valued and understood. Natasha looks to share insights from the world of hairstyling, creativity, and inspiration, alongside real conversations and meaningful discussions This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

    15 min
  8. From Stage to Strategy: Marketing, Acting, and a Global Journey with Nicole Garbellini

    11/04/2025

    From Stage to Strategy: Marketing, Acting, and a Global Journey with Nicole Garbellini

    In this episode, Natasha has invited Nicole Garbellini, an actress, artistic director of Aurora Theatre in Hong Kong, public speaker, and writer with a passion for coaching. Nicole shares her fascinating journey that took her from her early acting days in Italy to setting up her own successful theatre company in Hong Kong, and eventually moving to the UK and Saudi Arabia. KEY TAKEAWAYS Marketing is a Fundamental Necessity: Nicole learned that marketing is the foundation for any business, regardless of the industry, and is essential for getting seen and heard. The Global Expansion of Passion: Nicole's passion for acting and theatre started in Italy, but her desire to grow led her to master English in Australia and then establish her theatre company, Aurora Theatre, in Hong Kong, demonstrating the importance of global ambition. Soft Skills Enhance Performance and Life: Her new eBook, Connect With Your Character Using Soft Skills, is rooted in the belief that being a better human being first, with empathy and active listening, makes one a better actor and a better professional. The Importance of a Side Business: Nicole strongly advises people, even those with full-time jobs, to consider starting their own business, no matter how small, to pursue their passion and avoid relying on only one source of income. Adaptation is Key to Global Success: Nicole's personal journey of moving between Hong Kong, the UK, and Saudi Arabia underscores the necessity of expanding one's professional community to remain visible and accessible in a globally mobile life. BEST MOMENTS "Little did I know that there was so much more than me being on stage." "You need butts in the audience. And how are you going to do that? So you've got to go out and market yourself." "If you don't do it [marketing], then, you know, people will not hear you, will forget about you, will... see that there are other people there that they're not necessarily better than you, but they're more visible." "We live in a world where being on only one income is dangerous... What about our passion? What about our dreams? What about what we really want to do?" "If you want to be a better actor, there is only one way you can do: be a better human being first." TO CONNECT WITH NICOLE https://www.auroratheatrehk.com/  OUR LINKS www.exquisitesalon.co https://www.instagram.com/exquisite1hbs/⁠ HOST BIO Natasha is a seasoned hairdresser with over 14 years of experience in the beauty industry, renowned for her passion, skill, and dedication to her craft. Specializing in creating personalized, stunning styles, she has worked with clients of all hair types, consistently earning a reputation for boosting confidence and empowering individuals through their hair transformations. Natasha’s approach combines creativity with precision, ensuring each client feels valued and understood. Natasha looks to share insights from the world of hairstyling, creativity, and inspiration, alongside real conversations and meaningful discussions This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

    39 min

About

Beyond the Salon Chair is a podcast filled with candid conversations, fun, tips and personal stories that explore well-being, and personal expression. Whether you're a fellow stylist or someone who simply loves great hair, it is your go to source for everyone, delivered with a dose of humour and a whole lot of heart.