Talking Hair Loss with Katie Dear

Katie Dear
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Welcome to Talking Hair Loss with Katie Dear. I'm Katie Dear, a Hair Loss and Wig Consultant, and this podcast is dedicated to honest conversations about the realities of hair loss. Each episode features inspiring guests who share their personal experiences of hair loss caused by chemotherapy, alopecia, dermatological conditions, hormonal changes, and many other reasons. Together, we explore the emotional impact, the challenges they've faced, and what has helped them move forward. Alongside these conversations, I interview healthcare professionals and industry experts, sharing practical advice on wigs, hair replacement, treatments, scalp health, and emotional wellbeing to help you feel informed, supported, and empowered. My aim is simple: to break the stigma surrounding hair loss, raise awareness, and remind you that you are not alone. If you enjoy the podcast, please subscribe and share it with someone who may benefit from these conversations. Connect with me:YouTube: @TalkingHairLossPodInstagram: @TalkingHairLossPodInstagram (Consultancy): @wigsatkatiedearltdLinkedIn: Katie DearTikTok: @katiedearltd

  1. 3d ago

    Permanent Hair Loss After Chemotherapy | Shirley Ledley’s 20-Year Journey

    In this episode of Talking Hair Loss, I’m joined by Shirley Ledley to talk openly about her experience of permanent chemotherapy-induced hair loss and the journey that followed. It is important to know that this is rare and happened because of one type of chemotherapy and is one persons story. After being treated for breast cancer in 2005, Shirley discovered that her hair wasn’t growing back as expected following chemotherapy. What began as a devastating personal experience led her on a 20-year journey of raising awareness, supporting other women and campaigning for people to be properly informed about the potential risk of permanent hair loss. We talk about the emotional impact of losing your hair, informed consent, chemotherapy-induced alopecia, scalp cooling, finding the right wig and what it can mean to finally feel like yourself again. Shirley also shares how discovering a high-quality, custom-made human hair wig has changed the way she feels about herself and helped her move forward into a new chapter. This is an honest and incredibly powerful conversation about hair loss, identity, confidence and finding your way forward after treatment.  Find Shirley on Instagram: @shirley.with.alopecia Shirley’s books: Naked in the Wind: Chemo, Hair Loss and Deceit and A Hair’s Whisper: From Cancer to the Courtroom If you or someone you know has experienced permanent hair loss following chemotherapy, I hope Shirley’s story helps you feel informed, understood and a little less alone. If you need support with an Alopecia condition contact - https://www.alopecia.org.uk/ If you need support if you are going through treatment there are many amazing charities such as Macmillen and Maggies Charity. For wigs, products, help and Advice -  https://katiedear.co.uk/ If you have a story that you think needs to be told or you are a client that I have seen in the past purchasing wigs and you feel safe in telling your journey of hair loss, do get in touch.   Whether your hair loss  is from going through treatment or an Alopecia condition, do get in touch.    Email me at  https://katiedear.co.uk/contact/ Lets try and get people out of the silence and get them talking about their hair loss condition. For wigs, products  with help and Advice -  https://katiedear.co.uk/ FOLLOW ME ON -  IG: https://www.instagram.com/wigsatkatiedearltd/ LI:https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiedearltd/  TkTk: https://www.tiktok.com/@katiedearltd FB : https://www.katiedearhairlossandwigconsultancy

  2. Aug 10

    Mesh Integration, Hair Extensions & Hair Loss with Carly Flinn

    Hair loss can affect confidence at any stage of life, but there are more solutions available than many people realise. In this episode of Talking Hair loss, Katie speaks with Carly Flinn from Rumours Hair & Beauty Salon about her own experience with traction alopecia and how it inspired her to specialise in hair extensions and mesh integration. They explore who mesh integration is suitable for, how it compares with extensions, wigs and toppers, the importance of expert consultations and aftercare, and why restoring confidence is at the heart of every transformation. An honest and informative conversation for anyone navigating hair loss or looking to understand the options available. Find out more on Carly Flinn on her Instagram @hairby_carlyflinn If you need support with an Alopecia condition contact - https://www.alopecia.org.uk/ If you need support if you are going through treatment there are many amazing charities such as Macmillen and Maggies Charity. For wigs, products, help and Advice -  https://katiedear.co.uk/ If you have a story that you think needs to be told or you are a client that I have seen in the past purchasing wigs and you feel safe in telling your journey of hair loss, do get in touch.   Whether your hair loss  is from going through treatment or an Alopecia condition, do get in touch.    Email me at  https://katiedear.co.uk/contact/ Lets try and get people out of the silence and get them talking about their hair loss condition. For wigs, products  with help and Advice -  https://katiedear.co.uk/ FOLLOW ME ON -  IG: https://www.instagram.com/wigsatkatiedearltd/ LI:https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiedearltd/  TkTk: https://www.tiktok.com/@katiedearltd FB : https://www.katiedearhairlossandwigconsultancy

    Mesh Integration, Hair Extensions & Hair Loss with Carly Flinn

  3. Aug 5

    Natalie Jane Brooker on Alopecia, Wigs in Summer and Wig Prep for Vacation!

    In this episode of Talking Hair Loss, I am joined by Natalie Jane Brooker from She Is Losing It for an honest, uplifting conversation about navigating hair loss, wigs, confidence and summer holidays. Natalie shares her own alopecia journey, from hiding her hair loss for years to finding the confidence to speak openly and support others. Together, Natalie and I explore practical ways to feel more comfortable in warmer weather—from choosing lighter wig styles and preparing for travel to packing essentials, protecting your scalp, and finding freedom in your own routine. This episode is full of real experience, useful advice and encouragement for anyone living with hair loss or wearing alternative hair. If you want to follow more on Natalie and her Alopecia journey you can find her on Instagram on _she_is_losing_it_ For video footage of this interview go to my You tube channel  https://youtu.be/CKDs2LbXAXA If you need support with an Alopecia condition contact - https://www.alopecia.org.uk/ If you need support if you are going through treatment there are many amazing charities such as Macmillen and Maggies Charity. For wigs, products, help and Advice -  https://katiedear.co.uk/ If you have a story that you think needs to be told or you are a client that I have seen in the past purchasing wigs and you feel safe in telling your journey of hair loss, do get in touch.   Whether your hair loss  is from going through treatment or an Alopecia condition, do get in touch.    Email me at  https://katiedear.co.uk/contact/ Lets try and get people out of the silence and get them talking about their hair loss condition. For wigs, products  with help and Advice -  https://katiedear.co.uk/ FOLLOW ME ON -  IG: https://www.instagram.com/wigsatkatiedearltd/ LI:https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiedearltd/  TkTk: https://www.tiktok.com/@katiedearltd FB : https://www.katiedearhairlossandwigconsultancy

    Natalie Jane Brooker on Alopecia, Wigs in Summer and Wig Prep for Vacation!

  4. Jun 29

    From West End Wiggy to Hair Loss Specialist: Restoring Confidence One Client at a Time

    In this episode, Jackie Wood from charity radio Vibe25 speaks with Katie, a former West End 'Wiggy' who transformed her career to specialise in supporting people experiencing hair loss.  Katie shares her journey from hairdressing to becoming a specialist in hair loss solutions, emphasizing the importance of confidence in both performance and everyday life.  She discusses the emotional impact of hair loss, particularly among women and teens.   Katie explains her holistic approach to client care, ensuring that each individual feels supported and understood throughout their journey to restoration.  In this conversation, Katie discusses the intricate relationship between hair loss, emotional well-being, She shares her personal journey and insights as a hair loss and wig consultant, emphasizing the importance of understanding different hair solutions and the emotional support needed during such transitions. The discussion also highlights the significance of education and community in navigating the challenges of hair loss. She discusses the evolution of wigs and hair loss solutions.  They also touch on the realities of NHS wig provision and the importance of education and guidance when choosing hair solutions.  Katie also highlights the significance of creating a comfortable environment for clients dealing with hair loss and provides resources for support. Whether you are personally experiencing hair loss, supporting a loved one, or simply interested in understanding this often-overlooked issue, this episode offers valuable insights and inspiration.  Key Topics Covered: Hair loss and emotional wellbeingBuilding confidence after hair lossSupporting teenagers experiencing hair lossStress-related hair loss and chronic sheddingUnderstanding wigs and hair replacement optionsNutrition, exercise, and holistic careCreating supportive communities for those affected by hair lossFinding purpose through helping othersNHS Provision If you need support with an Alopecia condition contact - https://www.alopecia.org.uk/ If you need support if you are going through treatment there are many amazing charities such as Macmillen and Maggies Charity. For wigs, products, help and Advice -  https://katiedear.co.uk/ If you have a story that you think needs to be told or you are a client that I have seen in the past purchasing wigs and you feel safe in telling your journey of hair loss, do get in touch.   Whether your hair loss  is from going through treatment or an Alopecia condition, do get in touch.    Email me at  https://katiedear.co.uk/contact/ Lets try and get people out of the silence and get them talking about their hair loss condition. For wigs, products  with help and Advice -  https://katiedear.co.uk/ FOLLOW ME ON -  IG: https://www.instagram.com/wigsatkatiedearltd/ LI:https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiedearltd/  TkTk: https://www.tiktok.com/@katiedearltd FB : https://www.katiedearhairlossandwigconsultancy

  5. May 18

    Women, Hair Loss & Why This Conversation Matters

    I recently joined BBC Radio 5 Live to discuss the emotional impact hair loss can have on women’s lives, following the recent VAT ruling around specialist hair-loss services. Usually on this podcast I’m in conversation with guests and sharing perspectives through interviews, rather than speaking solo, but I wanted to share this here so you could hear my own thoughts on a subject that means a great deal to me because of the clients I work with regularly. Hair loss is so often dismissed as cosmetic, yet for many women the emotional impact can be profound. Thank you for being here and for listening to a conversation that I believe really matters. If you need support with an Alopecia condition contact - https://www.alopecia.org.uk/ If you need support if you are going through treatment there are many amazing charities such as Macmillen and Maggies Charity. For wigs, products, help and Advice -  https://katiedear.co.uk/ If you have a story that you think needs to be told or you are a client that I have seen in the past purchasing wigs and you feel safe in telling your journey of hair loss, do get in touch.   Whether your hair loss  is from going through treatment or an Alopecia condition, do get in touch.    Email me at  https://katiedear.co.uk/contact/ Lets try and get people out of the silence and get them talking about their hair loss condition. For wigs, products  with help and Advice -  https://katiedear.co.uk/ FOLLOW ME ON -  IG: https://www.instagram.com/wigsatkatiedearltd/ LI:https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiedearltd/  TkTk: https://www.tiktok.com/@katiedearltd FB : https://www.katiedearhairlossandwigconsultancy

  6. Mar 12

    How to give your scalp and hair selfcare when the seasons change with Trichologist Kate Holohan

    Seasonal changes can take a toll on your scalp—and most of us don’t even notice! In this episode, I chat with Trichologist Kate Holohan about common scalp issues like irritation and fungus, and how to prevent them as the seasons shift. We explore why scalp care is just as important as a facial, and Kate shares her expert tips plus calming salon treatments that give your hair and scalp the ultimate VIP treatment. Learn how to keep your hair healthy, happy, and glowing all year round! Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and follow for more hair and wellness insights! Follow Kate on her own podcast 'Hair Therapy', on Spotify.  If you need support with an Alopecia condition contact - https://www.alopecia.org.uk/ If you need support if you are going through treatment there are many amazing charities such as Macmillen and Maggies Charity. For wigs, products, help and Advice -  https://katiedear.co.uk/ If you have a story that you think needs to be told or you are a client that I have seen in the past purchasing wigs and you feel safe in telling your journey of hair loss, do get in touch.   Whether your hair loss  is from going through treatment or an Alopecia condition, do get in touch.    Email me at  https://katiedear.co.uk/contact/ Lets try and get people out of the silence and get them talking about their hair loss condition. For wigs, products  with help and Advice -  https://katiedear.co.uk/ FOLLOW ME ON -  IG: https://www.instagram.com/wigsatkatiedearltd/ LI:https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiedearltd/  TkTk: https://www.tiktok.com/@katiedearltd FB : https://www.katiedearhairlossandwigconsultancy

    How to give your scalp and hair selfcare when the seasons change with Trichologist Kate Holohan

  7. Feb 4

    4 practical ways to manage stress and help stop chronic hair shedding.

    In this episode, I’m joined by Lisa Cressy from SuperBeing—mindset coach, hypnotherapist, NLP practitioner, and corporate speaker. Lisa helped me use stress management, visualization, and NLP techniques to help calm myself and therefore my chronic hair shedding (telogen effluvium). Life is so stressful, and it’s crucial to pause for our mental and physical health. Lisa shares 4 practical tips to start the year more mindful, helping us prioritize self-care and wellbeing in a hectic world. Here is a link to Lisa Cressy's website to find out more -   https://www.super-being.co.uk/about If you need support with an Alopecia condition contact - https://www.alopecia.org.uk/ If you need support if you are going through treatment there are many amazing charities such as Macmillen and Maggies Charity. For wigs, products, help and Advice -  https://katiedear.co.uk/ If you have a story that you think needs to be told or you are a client that I have seen in the past purchasing wigs and you feel safe in telling your journey of hair loss, do get in touch.   Whether your hair loss  is from going through treatment or an Alopecia condition, do get in touch.    Email me at  https://katiedear.co.uk/contact/ Lets try and get people out of the silence and get them talking about their hair loss condition. For wigs, products  with help and Advice -  https://katiedear.co.uk/ FOLLOW ME ON -  IG: https://www.instagram.com/wigsatkatiedearltd/ LI:https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiedearltd/  TkTk: https://www.tiktok.com/@katiedearltd FB : https://www.katiedearhairlossandwigconsultancy

    4 practical ways to manage stress and help stop chronic hair shedding.

  8. 09/21/2025

    Helen Chidgey – Navigating Hair Loss Before Major Surgery

    Today’s episode may be a triggering topic if you are going through a similar experience, so please seek support if you need it. We often talk about hair loss related to immune system issues or chemotherapy treatment, but something I haven’t discussed on the podcast before is experiencing hair loss in order to undergo a medical treatment. Tropic Ambassador Helen Chidgey shares her journey through the challenging mental recovery of sudden hair loss pre-treatment, as well as the slow physical recovery, feelings of isolation post-op, and how she discovered a new career and purpose to navigate her life going forward. Hopefully, this episode will inspire and support anyone going through a similar operation, showing that you are not alone on your journey. Grab a cuppa—I hope you enjoy the show! Follow Helen’s Tropic Ambassador work: Website: www.tropicskincare.com/helenchidgey Instagram: @helen_chidgey_tropic If you need support with an Alopecia condition contact - https://www.alopecia.org.uk/ If you need support if you are going through treatment there are many amazing charities such as Macmillen and Maggies Charity. For wigs, products, help and Advice -  https://katiedear.co.uk/ If you have a story that you think needs to be told or you are a client that I have seen in the past purchasing wigs and you feel safe in telling your journey of hair loss, do get in touch.   Whether your hair loss  is from going through treatment or an Alopecia condition, do get in touch.    Email me at  https://katiedear.co.uk/contact/ Lets try and get people out of the silence and get them talking about their hair loss condition. For wigs, products  with help and Advice -  https://katiedear.co.uk/ FOLLOW ME ON -  IG: https://www.instagram.com/wigsatkatiedearltd/ LI:https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiedearltd/  TkTk: https://www.tiktok.com/@katiedearltd FB : https://www.katiedearhairlossandwigconsultancy

    Helen Chidgey – Navigating Hair Loss Before Major Surgery
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About

Welcome to Talking Hair Loss with Katie Dear. I'm Katie Dear, a Hair Loss and Wig Consultant, and this podcast is dedicated to honest conversations about the realities of hair loss. Each episode features inspiring guests who share their personal experiences of hair loss caused by chemotherapy, alopecia, dermatological conditions, hormonal changes, and many other reasons. Together, we explore the emotional impact, the challenges they've faced, and what has helped them move forward. Alongside these conversations, I interview healthcare professionals and industry experts, sharing practical advice on wigs, hair replacement, treatments, scalp health, and emotional wellbeing to help you feel informed, supported, and empowered. My aim is simple: to break the stigma surrounding hair loss, raise awareness, and remind you that you are not alone. If you enjoy the podcast, please subscribe and share it with someone who may benefit from these conversations. Connect with me:YouTube: @TalkingHairLossPodInstagram: @TalkingHairLossPodInstagram (Consultancy): @wigsatkatiedearltdLinkedIn: Katie DearTikTok: @katiedearltd

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