The Conscious Salon

Nicola and Tessa
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Welcome to The Conscious Salon. Join Tessa and Nicola - sisters, best friends and founders of aHead, Melbourne’s First Mindful Salon.  In this space, you’ll be empowered, inspired and entertained by the ups and downs of running a conscious, small business. We chat mindset, culture, business and give you practical steps to make your life more conscious. 

  1. HACE 1 DÍA

    Becoming a Mum during a pandemic - Nic's story

    In this episode of The Conscious Salon Podcast, we continue our Motherhood Series with a very special conversation that turns the microphone onto one of our own. I sit down with my sister and co-host, Nicola Pollock, to unpack her deeply personal journey into motherhood while simultaneously running a salon during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. Nicola shares what it was like to give birth in 2020, a time of strict lockdowns, curfews, and immense uncertainty. From the surreal experience of walking up three flights of stairs in labour because lifts were closed, to having her partner escorted home by police after visiting her and their newborn, this story paints a vivid picture of what it meant to bring life into the world in extraordinary times. But beyond the birth itself, we dive into the complexities of identity, responsibility, and leadership. Nicola speaks candidly about the tension between caring for her newborn son and carrying the weight of her business. She opens up about logging into her laptop just hours after giving birth, driven by a sense of responsibility to her team and clients. This raw honesty highlights how people-pleasing tendencies and leadership pressure can collide in ways that are both unsustainable and transformative. Key Takeaways One of the most powerful parts of Nicola’s story is her reflection on boundaries. She acknowledges the version of herself who prioritised everyone else’s needs above her own and her baby’s. Today, she approaches leadership and motherhood differently, with compassion for her past choices but clarity about what she would do differently now. This offers a powerful reminder that we can process difficult experiences, learn from them, and support others with the wisdom gained. We also discuss the importance of community in raising children and running a business. Nicola shares how she and her partner consciously chose to embrace support networks, recognising that in Western culture we often try to parent in isolation when in reality raising children has always been a collective effort. This philosophy now guides the way she mentors other salon owners, encouraging them to release the pressure of “doing it all” and to invite in help - whether that’s family, friends, or chosen community. This conversation is not just about motherhood - it’s about leadership, resilience, and the power of choosing differently. Nicola’s experience shows how we can grieve past decisions while still appreciating the lessons they bring. It’s a story of strength, adaptability, and redefining what it means to thrive as both a business owner and a parent. We hope this episode reminds you that you’re not alone in navigating the juggle of motherhood and entrepreneurship, and that it’s possible to create a life where business and family not only coexist but thrive together. To follow our journey: Instagram @aheadhair_ @the_conscious_salon This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative

    27 min

  2. 24 AGO

    Business Dot Motherhood with Tegan Mac

    In this episode of the Conscious Salon Podcast, we welcome Tegan Mac, a leader in the beauty industry, to discuss her journey through balancing a thriving business and motherhood.  Tegan shares her personal experiences of pregnancy loss, the transition into motherhood, and how it has shaped her leadership style.  The episode also explores the importance of authenticity in the beauty profession and provides a heartfelt glimpse into the emotional and practical challenges of merging business responsibilities with family life. To follow our journey: Instagram @aheadhair_ @the_conscious_salon This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative

    49 min

  3. 17 AGO

    Big BODA Moves with Martha Kourt

    In this episode of The Conscious Salon, we had the absolute pleasure of sitting down with the powerhouse that is Martha Kourt - business owner, educator, and the creative force behind BODA. From the moment we began chatting, it was clear this was going to be a conversation that went far beyond surface-level business talk. We explored the mindset, strategy, and heart it takes to build a brand that not only succeeds but also truly reflects who you are. Martha shared openly about her journey in the beauty industry, from the early days of stepping into business ownership to making bold moves that have shaped her into the leader she is today. She spoke about the importance of being intentional with every decision, trusting your vision even when it feels risky, and creating a business model that supports the life you actually want to live. One of the biggest themes we unpacked was the power of leaning into your own leadership style, rather than trying to mould yourself into what you think a “successful” business owner should look like. Martha’s approach is a beautiful blend of strong systems, authentic client experiences, and a deep connection to her values - and it’s this combination that’s allowed her to grow a business she loves while still protecting her time and energy. We also dove into the realities of running a team in the beauty space. Martha spoke candidly about how she sets expectations, supports her staff to grow, and holds the line when it comes to boundaries. Her perspective was a reminder that leadership isn’t about people-pleasing - it’s about creating a clear vision and guiding your team towards it with both strength and compassion. The deeper takeaways from our chat with Martha This conversation was a powerful reminder that big moves in business require both courage and clarity. It’s easy to get caught up in what everyone else in the industry is doing, but Martha’s story proves that staying anchored in your own lane will always get you further. We spoke about how crucial it is to understand the numbers in your business, set non-negotiables for your time, and say no to opportunities that don’t align - even if they look impressive on paper. We were also reminded that you can’t grow a business you love if you’re running on empty. Martha’s approach to self-leadership - making time for her own development, wellbeing and creativity - was a lesson in sustainability. It’s not about burning yourself out to get results; it’s about building in a way that allows you to keep showing up for the long term. How you can put this into action If you’ve been feeling the pull to make a bold move in your business - whether that’s expanding, rebranding, restructuring your team, or simply reclaiming more time for yourself - this episode will give you the permission slip you’ve been waiting for. We encourage you to take some time after listening to reflect on where your business is currently in alignment with your values, and where it’s not. Ask yourself: If I were starting from scratch today, what would I do differently?Where am I saying “yes” out of obligation rather than genuine excitement?What boundaries do I need to set to protect my energy and creativity?From there, choose one small but significant action you can take this week to move closer to the business you actually want. It might be a conversation with a team member, restructuring your schedule, or finally making that investment you’ve been putting off. Why you’ll love this episode Spending this time with Mar To follow our journey: Instagram @aheadhair_ @the_conscious_salon This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative

    50 min

  4. 10 AGO

    Three's a Crowd with Tamara Reid

    In this episode of The Conscious Salon, we’re thrilled to be joined by someone who has been walking beside us in business and friendship for many years - Tamara Reid. You might know her from her incredible work as the Head of Partnerships at Timely, her deep involvement in the professional hair and beauty industry, or from her own thriving business journey. This conversation is a raw and real look into what it actually means to navigate leadership, friendship and ambition as women - especially when you’re balancing it all in a trio. We spoke candidly about the power dynamics that come into play in both business and personal relationships, what can happen when a third energy shifts the flow, and how to honour your own role without feeling diminished by others around you. We didn’t shy away from the big questions. What happens when you outgrow a partnership? How do you stay in your own lane when comparison creeps in? And what does it truly take to nurture friendships when business gets big, busy and bold? What we unpacked with Tamara This chat took us deep into the real challenges and beautiful breakthroughs of working alongside other women. Tamara was so open in sharing how she’s experienced different dynamics in partnerships and collaborations, and what she's learned about maintaining her own identity throughout it all. We explored how common it is for women to compare themselves to others, especially in three-person relationships, and how that can quickly lead to self-doubt or even withdrawal. At the same time, we spoke about the growth that comes from recognising your triggers and leaning into vulnerability - rather than pulling away or shutting down. What really struck us was Tamara’s wisdom around energetic capacity. She reminded us how important it is to check in with ourselves about how full our own cups are, and not take responsibility for the emotional states of others when we’re already stretched thin. Why this conversation matters As women in leadership, we often take on more than our fair share - whether that’s in emotional labour, people-pleasing, or dimming our light to make others comfortable. This episode is a reminder that it’s okay to take up space, to honour our boundaries, and to do the work required to grow through discomfort. We left this conversation feeling seen, held, and deeply reflective - and we know it’ll have the same impact on so many of you who are navigating friendship, leadership and self-worth in this season. Action Steps to Take After Listening If any part of this episode resonated with you, we invite you to take a moment to reflect on the dynamics in your own relationships - whether personal or professional. Are there places where you’ve felt yourself shrink to make others more comfortable? Are there conversations you’ve been avoiding out of fear of disrupting the flow? Take some time to journal or voice note your thoughts. What role do you often play in group dynamics? The peacekeeper, the powerhouse, the one who stays quiet? There’s no right or wrong - just an opportunity to get curious. And if you’re feeling the nudge to have a heart-to-heart with someone close to you, let this episode be the prompt. It’s okay to take the first step toward clearing the air, resetting boundaries, or simply saying, “Hey, this matters to me.” Key Insights We’re Taking With Us We were reminded that comparison is often a symptom of disconnection - from ourselves. When we reconnect to our own values, our own journey, and our own truth, it becomes easier To follow our journey: Instagram @aheadhair_ @the_conscious_salon This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative

    47 min

  5. 3 AGO

    MAMAhood with Sheridan-Rose Shaw

    In this incredibly heartfelt episode of The Conscious Salon, we’re joined by someone who inspires us endlessly - Sheridan-Rose Shaw. Sheridan is the founder of Mama West, a creative leader, mentor, entrepreneur and now, a beautiful new mum. We’ve wanted to have this conversation with her for so long, and the timing couldn’t have been more perfect. We speak honestly about what it’s really like to navigate the early days of motherhood while running a business and leading a team. Sheridan shares so openly about her personal experiences - her healing birth journey, the early postpartum chapter, and how her identity has evolved through this huge life transformation. She gives us an intimate look into how she’s learning to lead with softness, presence and trust. Throughout the episode, we explore the deeper shifts that happen when we become mothers, particularly how that impacts the way we show up in leadership and in life. Sheridan reflects on what it means to honour our own capacity, release the pressure to be all things to all people, and embrace the very real duality of being both a mama and a CEO. We also unpack the way hustle culture has shaped our expectations as business owners and how she’s consciously redefining what success looks like now. This is a raw, moving, and grounded conversation about identity, womanhood, surrender, and the sacredness of slowing down. What we loved most about this conversation What we took away from this chat is that we don’t need to ‘bounce back’ - we get to evolve. There’s no single right way to do motherhood or business. We’re allowed to change. We’re allowed to ask for help. And we’re allowed to prioritise our peace. Sheridan reminded us how important it is to carve out space to be truly present - not only with our children, but with ourselves. She’s an example of conscious leadership in action, and her story is one that will speak to any woman who’s ever wondered how she can hold both her ambition and her intuition at the same time. A few takeaways we’re still sitting with There is power in softness.Boundaries are not walls - they’re reminders of what matters most.You don’t have to hold it all alone.Your evolution doesn’t need to be justified.A gentle nudge if you’re navigating your own shift If you’re in a season of transition - whether that’s motherhood, a business pivot, or something personal - this episode is a beautiful reminder that you’re not alone. Take a breath, ask for what you need, and trust that you’re allowed to honour your own rhythm. To follow our journey: Instagram @aheadhair_ @the_conscious_salon This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative

    51 min

  6. 28 JUL

    This will change your team's productivity

    In this episode of The Conscious Salon, we’re diving deep into one of the most important - and often overlooked - areas of salon success: team productivity during downtime. We’ve all been there - appointments shift, cancellations pop up, and before you know it, there’s an unexpected gap in the day. Instead of letting those moments drag you into a low-energy spiral, we’re here to flip the narrative and show you how to transform downtime into opportunity. We share what we’ve learned from years in the industry (and from a few of our own doom spirals), and how we now lead our team at Ahead with a completely different mindset - one rooted in intention, empowerment and ownership. This is the episode every salon or clinic owner needs to hear. In this episode, we unpack: Why downtime is one of the most under-utilised opportunities in the salon industryThe damaging mindset of seeing cancellations as lost timeHow to shift your team from frustration to focusOur go-to productivity strategy (P.U.D.O.T.)Simple ways to keep team morale high even on quiet daysWhy mindset and language matter in how we show up during gapsHow to motivate a creative team through collaboration, education and energyAction Steps You Can Take Today: 1. Create a P.U.D.O.T. List Start by building a Productive Use of Downtime (P.U.D.O.T.) list. This can include tasks like: Role playing client consults or salon toursLearning a new technical skill from a team memberWatching educational content with intentionUpdating systems or scriptsOffering to support another team member2. Reframe the Moment When a cancellation happens, pause and ask: What impact can I make in the next 20 minutes?What opportunity is this giving me to grow or support my team?3. Role Play Regularly Yes, they feel awkward at first - but role plays are one of the fastest and most effective ways to improve communication, confidence and client experience. 4. Encourage Peer Learning Let team members observe one another, give feedback and build each other up. It creates a culture of growth and reduces stagnation. 5. Keep the Vibe High Downtime doesn’t have to be low vibe. Get creative. Collaborate. Learn together. Make it fun and energising. Key Takeaways: Productivity isn’t about being busy - it’s about being intentional.Downtime is only wasted if you let it be.Culture is shaped in the quiet moments as much as the busy ones.Motivation is something we can create - we don’t have to wait for it.As leaders, we can model how to turn slow times into valuable growth.To follow our journey: Instagram @aheadhair_ @the_conscious_salon This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative

    33 min

  7. 20 JUL

    Being money driven

    Welcome to a transformative episode of the Conscious Salon podcast, where we explore the powerful theme of financial independence and empowerment for women. In a world where societal norms often dictate financial roles, we challenge these conventions and encourage women to embrace their financial ambitions unapologetically. Join us as we share personal stories, practical tips, and insights to help you navigate your journey to financial freedom. Whether you're a business owner or an employee, this episode is packed with valuable advice to empower you to take control of your financial destiny.  Tune in now and take the first step towards a financially empowered future! To follow our journey: Instagram @aheadhair_ @the_conscious_salon This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative

    34 min

  8. 13 JUL

    QUIZ: Understand your Leadership Archetype

    In this episode of the Conscious Salon podcast, we dive into the challenges and growth opportunities for salon owners and leaders. We things off with some light-hearted banter about mum life and the chaotic attempts at recording the podcast. We reflect on past episodes and discuss the importance of embracing all versions of ourselves. The highlight of the episode is our 'Leadership Archetype Quiz.' We guide you through a series of questions designed to help you identify whether you're a reactive, avoidant, or passive leader. Along the way, we share personal stories from our own leadership journeys - both the good and the not-so-good - and offer practical advice on how to improve. You'll hear about real-life salon scenarios, like how to handle a team member's mistake, respond to negative reviews, and deal with staff calling in sick last minute. We even touch on the trials of enforcing salon policies and handling client disrespect towards team members. After taking the quiz, we break down the results for each leadership archetype and provide actionable tips to help you become a more conscious leader. Whether you're a reactive leader who needs to learn to pause before reacting, an avoidant leader who needs to lean into discomfort, or a passive leader who needs to take ownership and communicate directly, we've got you covered. We encourage you to DM us on Instagram to share your quiz results and commitment to change! To follow our journey: Instagram @aheadhair_ @the_conscious_salon This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative

    34 min
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Welcome to The Conscious Salon. Join Tessa and Nicola - sisters, best friends and founders of aHead, Melbourne’s First Mindful Salon.  In this space, you’ll be empowered, inspired and entertained by the ups and downs of running a conscious, small business. We chat mindset, culture, business and give you practical steps to make your life more conscious. 

Información

  • Creador
    Nicola and Tessa
  • Años de actividad
    2022 - 2025
  • Episodios
    159
  • Clasificación
    Explícito
  • Copyright
    © 2025 The Conscious Salon
  • Mostrar sitio web
    The Conscious Salon

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