F*ck That Formula

Valerie Alexander
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No Formula. No Filter. Bold, raw conversations on beauty, business & boundaries. We challenge outdated salon culture, toxic industry norms, and the rules nobody questions. New episodes Sundays 7PM CST. Submit Dirty Chair Confession Buy eBook: Keep It Cute: The At-Home Haircare Guide

  1. MAY 4

    Episode 24: Silence is Included in the Service

    The episode explores the debate around silent services in the beauty industry, highlighting the importance of client-stylist communication, the role of consultation, building client-stylist relationships, the art of conversation, stylist's personal boundaries, and setting expectations. Takeaways Silent services and the preference for conversation during beauty services are a topic of debate in the industry.Client-stylist communication and the role of consultation are crucial for understanding and meeting client preferences. Chapters 00:00 The Silent Service Debate06:08 The Role of Consultation12:25 The Art of Conversation21:46 Setting Expectations

    27 min

  2. APR 20

    Episode 23: Booked, Busy and Broke at Tax Time

    The episode discusses the challenges faced during tax season, emphasizing the importance of financial planning and understanding business expenses. It provides insights and guidance for stylists and business owners to navigate tax-related issues and manage their finances effectively.

    32 min

  3. APR 13

    Episode 21: Blowout Burnouy

    The episode delves into the physical and mental toll of performing blowouts and silk presses, highlighting the strain, pain, and lack of recognition experienced by stylists. It also addresses the overwhelming demand for natural hair services and the decision to transition away from such services due to physical limitations. The episode emphasizes the need for respect and recognition of the skill and effort involved in performing blowouts and silk presses. Takeaways Physical and mental strain of performing blowouts and silk presses.The need for respect and recognition of the skill and effort involved in performing blowouts and silk presses. Chapters 00:00 Blowout Burnout06:11 Physical Strain of Natural Hair12:58 Challenges with Short Natural Hair18:28 Professional Opinion on Blowout Tools

    28 min

  4. APR 6

    Episode 22: Price Increase Panic

    Most hairstylists and barbers hesitate to raise their prices—and for good reason. But what if avoiding it is actually costing you more than you think? Valerie breaks down the truth behind price increases, revealing how inflation, product costs, and industry standards are quietly forcing your hand. If you're tired of feeling guilty about charging what you're worth, this episode is your game-changer.In this eye-opening conversation, Valerie shares her personal journey overcoming the fear of raising prices and how she strategically times her increases to stay profitable without losing clients. You’ll discover the real reasons behind industry price hikes—from ingredient costs to extended service offerings—and how to confidently adjust your rates without the guilt or panic. We break down specific tactics for upselling, handling client objections, and setting prices that protect your peace and future, not just your bank account.You'll learn: The true cost of doing business in the salon industry—supplies, rent, tools, and insurance—often hidden from clients but impacting your bottom line.How to determine the right time to raise your prices based on your booked schedule and market trends.Why family and friends are often the worst clients for your pricing, and how to set boundaries without damaging relationships.The importance of valuing your skill, service quality, and customer experience when upselling in a competitive market.Practical steps for calculating an increase that feels sustainable, backed by industry data and real-world examples.Staying underpriced might feel safe, but it’s a trap—putting your business and wellbeing at risk. This episode arms you with the confidence and strategies to elevate your prices, boost your income, and attract clients who respect your value. Perfect for stylists, barbers, nail techs, estheticians, and anyone ready to ditch the scarcity mindset and own their worth. Whether you're just starting or seasoned, if you’ve ever felt guilty about charging more, this is your call to elevate—because your skills, your time, and your future deserve it. Don’t let fear hold you back any longer. Tune in now and learn how to turn your price increase panic into profit power.

    31 min

  5. MAR 23

    Episode 20: The Oldies but Goodies

    The conversation delves into the nostalgia for old salon practices and the evolution of salon techniques and products. It explores the sentiment of longing for the past while acknowledging the advancements and changes in the salon industry. The discussion highlights the impact of vintage salon practices and the relevance of traditional techniques in the modern era.

    30 min

  6. MAR 16

    Episode 19: Don't Count My Pockets

    The conversation delves into the topic of counting people's pockets, particularly from the perspective of a stylist and a client. It explores the responsibilities of a stylist, the importance of building a relationship with a stylist, financial awareness, consent, and the client-stylist relationship. The F**k That Formula of the Week emphasizes the importance of consent and the client's rights in the stylist-client relationship.

    20 min

  7. MAR 9

    Episode 18: When Passion Aint Paying the Bills

    Most stylists love their craft but struggle to make ends meet—until they realize the hard truth about passion and profit.If you’re tired of working hard without getting paid what you're worth, this episode is your wake-up call. Valerie reveals the raw, unfiltered reality of being booked, burnt out, and broke—despite loving what you do. You’ll discover the often-ignored mindset shifts that help stylists stop feeling shame about needing side gigs, raising prices, and setting boundaries. Valerie shares her own journey from feeling like she had to hustle 24/7 just to pay rent, to learning how to price her worth without guilt

    29 min

  8. MAR 2 ·  BONUS

    Bonus Episode

    The episode delves into the pet peeves of both clients and stylists, highlighting the importance of communication in addressing these issues. It covers various pet peeves such as client behavior during salon services, co-washing practices, smoking breaks, and the need for timely hair color retouches. The hosts emphasize the significance of setting non-negotiables and communicating effectively to create a smoother and more enjoyable salon experience for both clients and stylists.

    47 min
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About

No Formula. No Filter. Bold, raw conversations on beauty, business & boundaries. We challenge outdated salon culture, toxic industry norms, and the rules nobody questions. New episodes Sundays 7PM CST. Submit Dirty Chair Confession Buy eBook: Keep It Cute: The At-Home Haircare Guide

Information

  • Creator
    Valerie Alexander
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    26
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Valerie Alexander
  • Show Website
    F*ck That Formula