How To Cut It in the Hairdressing Industry

In this episode of the How To Cut It podcast in partnership withWella Professionals, we head to the Manchester Studio to explore the story behind the launch of “Pure Perfection” from Wella Professionals. This new ammonia-free permanent colour innovation was designed to grant professionals greater choice, flexibility, and confidence behind the chair.

We are joined by two industry experts who bring unique perspectives to this launch. Callum Tierney, Managing Director of Terence Paul salons and Wella’s UK Ambassador selected to represent Pure Perfection on the global stage, shares his creative journey and what it means to represent British hairdressing internationally. Alongside him is Robert Howse, Wella Professionals UKI’s Education, Digital Platforms, and Data Manager.

The conversation explores the inspiration behind the campaign and the changing preferences Callum sees among clients, including greater interest inhair health, ingredients and transparency. He also describes a move towards warmer shades such as golden blondes and coppers, and explains how the campaign’s creative direction connects with his approach to luxury, healthy-looking hair.

Rob is to outline howPure Perfection as an ammonia-free permanent colour range has been developed for conscious product clients seeking other colour option. We also get to learn how stylists can identify clients who may welcome the option, including those concerned about colour sensitivity, staining, fragrance or residue. They also consider how salons can introduce the service through consultations, education and pricing structures, while positioning it alongside—not as a replacement for—other permanent colour ranges.

Hit play to learn more!

Timestamps

• 3:49 Callum’s Journey in Hairdressing0:17
• Becoming a Global Campaign Ambassador
• 13:28 Finding Inspiration in Colour Trends
• 15:58 Inside Ammonia-Free Pure Perfection
• 22:02 Offering Clients More Colour Choices
• 24:20 How the Colour Works Behind the Chair
• 28:14 Education and Salon Business Benefits
• 35:50 Innovation That Keeps Hairdressing Moving
• 41:13 The Power of Authentic Hair Imagery
• 43:45 Key Takeaways and Where to Learn More

Episode Resources

• For more on Wella Pure Perfection click HERE
• Learn more on Wella Professionals Education click HERE
• Connect with Callum on Instagram @callumtierney
• Connect with Robert on Instagram @thewellahairguy
• Connect with Wella Professionals UKI on Instagram @wellaprofessionalsuki
• Discover the full range of Wella Professionals products visit HERE
• Watch todays podcast on How To Cut It YouTube channel visit@howtocutit

In this episode, brought to you in partnership with Wella Professionals UKI, we are joined by Sarah Yorke—an industry professional turned tech founder. From her early beginnings working behind the salon chair to launching the Stylebook Directory and Stylebook Education, Sarah shares how her passion for the industry has evolved into two platforms: one that helps hair and beauty professionals grow their businesses, and another that provides social mediaand digital online safety training to next-generation hairdressers.

Sarah explains how her education platform equips students with vital life skills often overlooked in traditional training, including digital professionalism, online safety, and industry etiquette. These areas are now essential for professionals looking to secure employment and build a sustainable career in today’s digital-first landscape.

We also explore the exciting future of Stylebook Education as it expands beyond hair and beauty into new creative sectors. Sarah’s commitment to bridging the gap between education and industry provides a blueprint for professional success. Tune in to discover how she is setting a new standard for modern hair professionals and helping talent navigate their digital footprint with confidence.

Chapters

• 4:02 Early Years Behind the Chair
• 12:17 The Person Behind the Persona
• 17:15 Creating the Stylebook Directory
• 26:08 How the Directory Works
• 31:21 Building Stylebook Against the Odds
• 34:28 A Safer Digital Space for Students
• 49:00 Why Online Safety Matters
• 56:14 City & Guilds and Industry-Wide Ambitions
• 1:02:36 Global Dreams and Real-World Results
• 1:08:30 Advice for the Next Generation

Resources

• Visit Stylebook Education HERE
• Visit Stylebook DirectoryHERE
• Connect with Stylebook Education on Instagram @stylebookeducation
• Connect with Stylebook Directory on Instagram @stylebookdirectory
• For more on Wella Professionals Education visit HERE
• Connect with Wella Professionals UKI on Instagram @wellaprofessionalsuki

In this final episode of the Residency takeover with Nancy Stripe, Nancy is joined by Adina Pignatare, an acclaimed American based hair educator, salon owner, viral content creator, and modern mother navigating the hair industry. Adina shares her unique journey and provides actionable advice on how to balance life as a working parent while building a brand that resonates with both your clients and your digital audience.

Throughout the conversation, Adina reveals the reality behind high-profile opportunities, including her experience working with L’Oréal Pro and celebrities like Tan France. She emphasises the importance of having a strong support system and the resilience required to manage a thriving career while juggling the demands of motherhood.

You’ll hear howAdinastays authentic to her craft and why she believes in the power of inspiring other women to pursue it all. Whether you are looking to elevate your professional path or need the motivation to push through your own hurdles, this final installment is packed with heartfelt stories and practical insights. Join us as we wrap up this inspiring series with a conversation that proves your career and personal life can successfully coexist at the highest level.

Chapters

• 5:46 Motherhood Changed the Why
• 9:25 Growing the Right Audience
• 17:39 Learning Content Creation
• 21:17 Inspiration and Video Tips
• 23:42 Realistic Color Expectations
• 28:44 Teaching Content and Hair
• 30:23 Early Struggles and Doubt
• 35:42 Paris First-Class Pinch Me
• 38:19 Tan France Challenge
• 46:44 Quickfire Questions and Wrap-Up

Episode Resources

• Connect with Adina on Instagram @adina_pignatare
• For Adina’s FREE French Highlights Masterclass click HERE
• Connect with Adina’s salon business@salonwest_ma
• Connect with Nancy Stripe on Instagram @nancystripecolour
• Sign up to the waitlist of Spotd https://getspotdapp.com/
• Connect with Spotd on Instagram @getspotdapp

We are thrilled to bring you part three of our Residency Takeover with our guest host, the award-winning colourist and educator, Nancy Stripe. In this episode, Nancy sits down with Nardia Young, a prominent British hair colour specialist and global educator based in Birmingham with over 28 years of experience. As a world-renowned Grey Blending Expert, Nardia has spent her career transforming high-maintenance tint cycles into seamless, natural silver hair.

Nardia has taken the industry by storm, but her success is built on years of hands-on experience and a deep understanding of hair health. In this conversation today, she demystifies the technical challenges of working with dark-haired canvases and the importance of precise execution. Beyond the chemistry and the colour, Nardia and Nancy explore the emotional journey of grey blending—why it is about more than just technique; it is about helping clients embrace their natural identity.

If you want to move beyond the traditional tint cycle and master the art of seamless silver transformation, this episode is a must-listen. Tune in as Nardiashares her journey, professional lessons from the salon floor, and the secrets to helping your clients fall in love with their hair all over again.

CHAPTERS

• 4:50 Nadia’s Origin Story
• 6:18 Brave Lift Techniques
• 7:59 Grey Blending Takes Shape
• 11:39 Preventing Hair Breakage
• 16:10 Consultation and Commitment
• 21:22 Toughest Hair Cases
• 25:34 Product Must-Haves
• 28:56 Braver Grey Blends
• 30:31 Pricing the Process
• 34:10 Community and Controversy
• 35:19 The Rami Incident
• 41:40 Future of Grey Blending
• 44:25 Quickfire Favourite’s

RESOURCES

• Connect with Nardia on Instagram @hairbynardia
• Nardia’s The Global Grey Blending Handbook click HERE
• 1-1 Grey Blending Call click HERE
• Connect with Nancy Stripe on Instagram @nancystripecolour
• Sign up to the waitlist of Spotd https://getspotdapp.com/
• Connect with Spotd on Instagram @getspotdapp

For today’s takeover episode, our month-long residency guest host Nancy Stripe sits down with the visionary Catherine Handcock OBE, a pioneering British publisher and leading advocate for the UK hair and beauty sector. As the founder of Creative HEAD and a director of the British Beauty Council, Catherine has spent decades championing professional excellence, building prestigious awards platforms, and lobbying for vital industry recognition.

Nancy and Catherine discuss the evolution of hairdressing as a vibrant, interconnected community and the power of storytelling through media. Catherine pulls back the curtain on how she successfully bridged the gap between salon life and the wider professional world, helping to set new standards for the entire industry.

They also explore the importance of recognising emerging talent and the necessity of giving a voice to those challenging the status quo. Discover why Catherine believes in innovation over tradition and why a commitment to unique vision is the ultimate tool for long-term success.

Tune in for an insightful conversation on entrepreneurship, the impact of professional advocacy, and how to build a legacy that changes an industry for the better. Whether you are seeking professional inspiration or strategic guidance, this episode offers a roadmap for leading with both passion and true purpose.

CHAPTERS

• 4:28 The OBE Story
• 8:29 Creative Head’s Legacy
• 24:11 New Focus Ahead
• 27:43 Reaching Future Hairdressers
• 33:39 Neurodiversity in Salons
• 42:07 Industry Icons and Inspiration
• 50:27 The Future of Hairdressing
• 56:28 Quickfire Questions

RESOURCES

• Learn more on The Industry HERE
• Connect with The Industry on Instagram @theindustrysquad
• Sign up for Destination Hair HERE
• For more on Creative Head Magazine Click HERE
• Watch aLife In Hairdressing
• Connect with Creative Head on Instagram @creativeheadmag
• Connect with Catherine Handcock OBE on LinkedIn HERE
• Find out more on the British Beauty Council HERE
• Connect with Nancy Stripe on Instagram @nancystripecolour
• Sign up to the waitlist of Spotd https://getspotdapp.com/
• Connect with Spotd on Instagram @getspotdapp

We are thrilled to welcome the award-winning colourist and educator Nancy Stripe back again, but this time as our guest host for the How To Cut It podcast! As the owner of Stripe Colour Studio, Nancy is taking the helm for an exciting September residency, where she will be sitting down with a stellar lineup of industry experts. She kicks off her series with an absolute legend: Jack Howard.

Jackis an internationally acclaimed colourist, educator, and global L’Oréal Professionnel Ambassador widely credited with bringing thebalayage technique to the UK. With over 30 years of professional experience and as the founder of his namesake luxury salon in Georgetown, Jack offers a masterclass in how to stay relevant in a fast-changing market.

In this episode, Jack shares his transition from traditional techniques to the modern era of soft, luminous grey blending. He discusses how to adapt teaching styles for stages versus classrooms, and why he prioritises mentorship over industry gatekeeping. They also cover the evolution ofsocial media as a professional storytelling tool and the challenges of leading a team while navigating personal grief and life. Tune in for this inspiring, candid conversation on innovation, resilience, and the future of hairdressing.

CHAPTERS

• 10:38 Career Turning Points
• 16:29 Collaboration Over Competition
• 21:49 Trends, Social Media, and Change
• 26:45 Grey Blending’s Future
• 34:21 Salon Owner vs Stylist
• 39:39 Early Influences and Mentors
• 44:55 Grief and Going Back to Work
• 54:38 Building a New Circle
• 59:23 Quickfire Favorites

RESOURCES

• Connect with Jack Howard on Instagram @jackhowardcolor
• Jack Howard The Salon click HERE
• Book courses with Jack Howard HERE
• Watch Jacks interview on YouTube HERE
• Connect with Nancy Stripe on Instagram @nancystripecolour
• Sign up to the waitlist of Spotd https://getspotdapp.com/
• Connect with Spotd on Instagram @getspotdapp

Today I’m sitting down with a long‑overdue guest: Nancy Stripe. A proud Northerner who leads with warmth, Nancy shares how her roots shape the way she connects with clients and teaches colour—and why grey blending isn’t camouflage, it’s identity. We dive into the psychology of consultation, the emotionsshe listens for before choosing a shade, and the moment that flipped her mission toward helping clients embrace their natural canvas.

Nancy unpacks how to read the spectrum from lived‑in subtlety to bold statements, where technical precision ends and the real “colour therapy” begins, and why specialisation—done deeply and ethically—elevates results for both clients and pros. We explore the rule‑bending side of modern colour (yes, including peroxides), spotting true innovation versus trend noise, and how credible education can thrive in an AI‑saturated era.

Nancy Stripe is an award‑winning hair colourist, educator, and owner of Stripe Colour Studio in Handforth near Manchester, UK. She is widely recognised as a leading specialist in balayage, lived‑in colour, and natural greyblending/transitioning.

Plus, big news: Nancy is taking over the mic throughout September, hosting episodes with her invited guests. Don’t miss them—subscribe to How To Cut It wherever you get your podcasts.

CHAPTERS

• 9:06 Grey Blending Origins
• 16:44 Three Grey Blending Techniques
• 18:28 From Accident to Online Course
• 25:42 L’Oréal and Career Growth
• 28:28 Mastery, AI, and Authentic Voice
• 34:17 Psychology Behind Client Consultations
• 40:10 Grey Hair as Business
• 42:58 Drive, Team, and Social Fatigue
• 47:29 Upcoming Podcast Takeover

RESOURCES

• For more on Stripe Colour Studio click HERE
• Connect with Nancy on Instagram @nancystripecolour
• Online courses with Nancy click HERE
• Education with Nancy click HERE
• Join the waitlist for Spotd by visiting https://getspotdapp.com/
• Watch the conversation with Nancy on our YouTube channel @howtocutit
• Follow Spotd on Instagram @getspotdapp

In this episode of How To Cut It, I’m joined by Rio Agor Watts at Revlon Professional’s head office in London. Rio is Revlon’s Group Education Manager for the UK and Ireland, and her job is to make sure education isn’t just “product info” — it’s practical, relevant, and actually works on the salon floor. We unpack what her role really involves, from shaping the learning experience hairdressers receive to the behind-the-scenes work that most people never see.

Rio takes us through her own journey too — getting into hairdressing young, finding confidence and purpose in the salon, then moving from a large salon group into an independent and eventually into corporate education. She shares what she had to learn the hard way, and the moments that made her realise she wasn’t just a stylist, she was someone who wanted to develop others.

We also get into what Rio believes the industry needs right now, especially around texture inclusivity and education that’s done with respect and integrity. She talks openly about her mixed Nigerian, white and Spanish background, how that shaped her identity and hair journey, and why asking better questions in the salon matters. Expect honest insight on confidence, communication, boundaries, and knowing your worth — from someone whose entire job is helping hairdressers grow.

RESOURCES

• Revlon Professional Education click HERE
• Connect with Revlon Professional UK on Instagram @revlonpro_education_uki
• Revlon Official Learning Hub click HERE
• Connect with Rio on Instagram @riorevlonprofessional
• Watch the conversation on YouTube @howtocutit

CHAPTERS

• 5:11 Weight Loss and Confidence
• 7:48 Roots and Identity
• 10:17 Texture Education Matters
• 12:05 From Money to Passion
• 14:08 Finding Growth at Headmasters
• 15:40 Leaving the Salon Machine
• 16:53 Why Education Wins
• 22:21 Joining Revlon Professional
• 23:57 Escaping the Doom Loop
• 25:52 Social Media and Booking
• 26:28 Educators and New Courses
• 28:53 Look and Learn Model
• 29:43 Visionaries Mentorship Programme
• 30:38 Championing Texture Inclusion
• 33:26 Neurodiversity in Education
• 36:20 Industry-Ready Training
• 37:35 Modern Work Boundaries
• 39:35 Ambition and Burnout
• 41:43 Social Battery Strain
• 43:22 Selling Yourself Well
• 44:34 The Power of Stage
• 46:06 What Makes Presenters Shine
• 48:15 Real Communication Matters
• 49:50 Retaining Talent Together
• 51:56 Charging Your Worth
• 54:39 Color, Care, and Scalp
• 56:39 Hair Loss and Growth

I can’t believe we’ve reached our 400th episode of How To Cut It! I couldn’t think of a better way to celebrate than by tackling the power of career pathways in hairdressing through apprenticeships—something I personally owe my 40-year career to. And to top it off, having a rising star in the industry who came through the KH Group apprenticeship program join us is the absolute perfect way to mark this milestone.

In this episode of How To Cut It, supported by Wella Professionals, I’m joined by KH HairManaging Director Darren Messias, franchisee Dawn Bramhall, and award-winning stylist Amelia Krasinski to break down what makes a modern apprenticeship truly successful.

With over 100 years of heritage and 19 salons, KH Hair proves that growing homegrown talent is the ultimate engine for salon longevity. Both Darren and Dawn started as apprentices and built decades-long careers—proving that when you offer clear career pathing across creative, business, and educational routes, retention looks after itself.

We dive into the real talk around apprenticeshiprecruitment: tackling financial pressures, engaging secondary schools, and why KH Hair invests in a dedicated third “finishing year” at their academy to get young team members truly salon-ready.

Plus, Amelia shares her journey from a school careers fair to winning Wella TrendVision Gold, demonstrating how strong mentorship turns ambitiousapprenticesinto the future stars of our industry.

Whether you’re a salon owner looking to strengthen your team or an educator passionate about raising industry standards, this episode is packed with practical strategies to future-proof your business.

CHAPTERS

• 3:53 KH Hair’s Career Journey
• 7:19 Finding Hairdressing Early
• 8:37 Why Apprenticeships Matter
• 10:43 Recruiting Amid Rising Costs
• 13:38 Spotting Passion In Interviews
• 16:22 Attracting Local Talent
• 19:27 Settling Apprentices In
• 20:54 Leading With Support
• 22:44 A Longer Training Path
• 25:03 Learning Through Mistakes
• 28:02 Handling Apprentice Doubt
• 31:58 Money, Motivation, And Growth
• 35:30 Mentorship Builds Confidence
• 38:26 Retention Through Opportunity
• 41:54 TrendVision Gold Journey
• 48:44 The Future Of Apprenticeships

RESOURCES

Follow the KH Hair: @khhairgroup

Explore the brand:khhairgroup.co.uk

Upskill your talent: Wella Professionals Education Portal

Connect with Wella Professionals UKI: @wellaprofessionalsuki

Enter Wella Trendvison:Wella TrendVision

Get ready to meet K18 FutureIQ™! This special episode in partnership withK18, recorded in front of a live audience at SALT Salon London, isn’t just a conversation – it’s a genuine line-in-the-sand moment, truly redefining hairdressing’s future!

I’m incredibly excited to be joined by co-founder and CEO of K18, Suveen Sahib and global brand ambassador Tom Smith. We’re diving deep into the revolutionaryK18 FUTUREIQ™ launch to uncover why hair longevity is not just a buzzword, but the undeniable future of proactive hair care – a future K18 FutureIQ™ is instrumental in shaping.

Discover Suveen’s incredible journey from high-stakes technology to bioscience, as he details the pivotal ‘aha!’ moments that led to profound insights into hair biology and ultimately, K18’s creation through vital stylist collaboration. Tom will then equip you with salon-ready practical insights, revealing the key emerging trends and client demands poised to define the future of proactive hair care.

This is profoundly game-changing: we delve into K18’s revolutionary focus on premature hair aging, meticulously connecting shedding, scalp health, and even early greys directly to oxidative load within the hair follicle. Beyond the vital science, we provide your essential toolkit: how to confidently discuss this shift in the chair, who FutureIQ™ is for, its incredibly simple nightly application, and the transformative, realistic results to expect over just 30-90 days.

This episode is packed with monumental lessons designed to ignite your passion, elevate your expertise, and powerfully transform your approach – from mastering hair biology to seeing hair health as smart, scalable business for your salon.

CHAPTERS

• 3:55 K18’s Origin Story
• 8:54 From Tech to Hair
• 12:50 Why Premature Aging Matters
• 20:08 Spotting Early Hair Aging
• 21:37 Defining Hair Longevity
• 27:58 Future IQ Science
• 33:13 Reading Hair Stress
• 34:36 Hair Aging vs Loss
• 35:56 Simple Daily Application
• 41:38 What to Expect
• 46:09 The Scalp Frontier
• 47:41 Salon Wellness Shift
• 52:10 Future Trends Ahead
• 54:27 Biohacking the Hair
• 58:47 Bridging Clients and Experts
• 1:01:44 Who Future IQ Suits
• 1:03:06 Why a Serum
• 1:04:11 Hairline Performance

RESOURCES

• CONNECT WITH K18 ON INSTAGRAM @K18hair_uk and @K18hair
• FIND OUT MORE ON K18 AND FUTUREIQ™ ONLINE HERE
• CONNECT WITH SUVEEN SAHIB ON INSTAGRAM @suveensahib
• CONNECT WITH TOM SMITH ON INSTAGRAM @tomsmithhd

Where can a career in hair really take you? That’s the question at the heart of this episode—and why I’m sharing a special Whair To (W-H-A-I-R To) sampler with you.

Whair To is the new short, punchy, question-led podcast from the soon to launch hair industry opportunity platformSpotd, built around real stories from people working across our industry. No heavy studio chat. No host. Just straight-to-the-point answers that show the many different routes a hairdressing or barbering career can open up.

In this best-of selection, you’ll hear:

Paul Corbett(Director of Advanced Education at Francesco Hair Salons) on going from apprentice to creative director, salon ownerand international educator—and why simply showing up to events, learning from others, and committing to mentorship can change everything.

Lawson Bliss on entering the industry almost by accident, finding his feet in Birmingham, and discovering that understanding the business side of hair can be the difference between a job and a long-term career—plus what it meant to open a salon with his mum.

Jax Hirst (founder of the Never Just Hair Facebook group) on freelancing, running a home studio, buildingeducation and mentoring projects, and the realities of boundaries, energy, communication—and knowing when to ask for help.

Rob Howes (Wella Professionals) on a journey that’s taken him from college to cruise ships, salon life and education, into digital and data—alongside a setback that taught him resilience and proved just how many directions this industry can take you.

If you’ve ever wondered what’s possible in hair beyond the chair—or you’re looking for that spark of motivation—this one’s for you. And if you want the full stories, you can find the complete episodes by subscribing to Whair To?wherever you get your podcasts.

Hit play, and see WHAIR hair can take you!

CHAPTERS

• 0:10 Podcast Intro
• 0:57 Introducing WHAIR To?
• 2:34 Spotd Launch
• 5:00 Paul’s Career Journey
• 8:56 Lawson’s Salon Story
• 11:14 Jax Builds Community
• 15:04 Rob’s Education Path
• 18:23 Wrap-Up

RESOURCES

• Learn more on Spotd by going to https://getspotdapp.com/
• Connect with Spotd on Instagram @getspotdapp
• Listen and subscribe to WHAIR To? podcast on Apple Podcasts HERE
• Listen and subscribe to WHAIR To? podcast on SpotifyHERE
• Connect with Rob Howes on Instagram @thewellahairguy
• Connect with Jax Hirst on Instagram @jaxrhair
• Connect with Lawson Bliss Instagram @lawsonbliss
• Connect with Paul Corbett Instagram @paulcorbett.hairdresser

Can a hairdresser and brand truly serve both consumers and the industry? That’s the hook of this episode—and the focus of our follow-up to our most-downloaded podcast of 2025. Recorded live at HairCon, with renowned celebrity hairstylist and founder of mdlondon, Michael Douglas.

Friend of the How To Cut It podcast, MichaelDouglas is back to share why he’s returned to an industry event after building a consumer-led platform and launchingmdlondon toolsand styling products. He argues there’s no real divide between “professional” and “consumer” because it’s the same client, and says his lockdown Instagram Lives proved that sharing expertise fuels salon bookings rather than replacing them.

Michael addresses the industry backlash he faced, charts mdlondon’sevolution—from a shelved cordless concept during lockdown supply issues to early sales struggles and a Black Friday turnaround—and urges hairdressers to share knowledge, go live to attract clients, and help bring new talent into the industry.

This is a conversation you’ll have an opinion on, either way!

Chapters

• 4:19 Lockdown Consumer Pivot
• 11:12 Lives Build Demand
• 15:58 MD London Origin
• 18:47 Shampoo Myths
• 20:05 Retailing in Salons
• 25:22 Building the Next Generation
• 27:17 Breaking Into Celebrity
• 29:14 Education and Opportunity
• 31:04 Salon Partnership Deal

Resources

MD London Website: https://mdlondon.com/

MD London on Instagram: @mdlondon

HairCon on Instagram @hairconshow

Spotd App find out morehttps://getspotdapp.com/

Connect with Spotd on Instagram @getspotdapp

How To Cut It on Instagram @howtocutit

Still guessing your prices?

If you’re afreelance hairdresseror salon owner who feels guilty raising rates, this episode is your permission slip—and your plan. In this How To Cut It panel, Georgia Bell,Ruth Lundstrum (Freelance Suite),Samantha Toogood, and Samantha Blues reveal why hair pros undercharge and how to price with confidence. We strip emotion from money, swap rigid menus for bespoke, hair-type packages, and build pricing that covers wages, tax/VAT, profit, pensions, sick pay, education, and cancellations. Ruth busts the “clients can’t afford it” myth—spending is a choice—and shares real numbers, including intentionally outpriced services that prove value sells.

Learn when to raise prices, how to stay booked, and the differences between salon and solo realities, plus the financial gaps NVQs leave behind.

CHAPTERS

• 0:05: Pricing Playbook Kickoff
• 7:47: VAT, Value, and Priorities
• 11:19: Real Rates, Real Services
• 18:10: Fear, Packages, and Price Hikes
• 20:31: Money, Greed, and Freedom
• 24:40: Educate, Earn, and Level Up
• 25:54: Business Basics and Profit
• 27:34: Comfortable Living Defined
• 28:36: Property, Branding, and Pensions
• 31:16: Financial Education for All

RESOURCES

• REGISTER TO JOIN SPOTD HERE
• FREELANCER SUITE CLICK HERE
• SAMANTHA BLUES CSI CLICK HERE
• GEORGIA BELL EDUCATION CLICK HERE
• @georgiagracebell/
• @ruth__lund
• @samanthabluescolourcoach
• @toogood_hair_well_being_

In today’s episode, Dom chats with Darren Cunningham and George Waterfield, owners of Leicester’s The Secret Garden, on building a truly welcoming, LGBTQ+ inclusive salon—and why inclusion is both practical and profitable.

Hear how they opened at speed, navigated Leicester’slockdown from a family garage, and replaced “ladies/gents” withgender‑neutral, length‑ and time‑based pricing. They share lessons on risk‑taking, constant education, and turning hate toward their Pride flag into powerful community solidarity, culminating in a 140‑person drag‑queen re‑raising.

Plus, their growth playbook: DMing influencers, smart pro bono collabs that led to Netflix premiere work and headline moments, and brand partnerships with L’Oréal. If you want culture, pricing, and marketing strategies that actually move the needle, this one’s for you. Hit Play!

CHAPTERS

• 2:36: Pricing Without Labels
• 5:02: Hairdressing Journeys
• 8:03: How They Met
• 9:13: Strengths In Partnership
• 13:01: From Idea To Salon
• 15:00: COVID Garage Pivot
• 17:46: Influencer Wins
• 20:26: Kate Price Event
• 22:57: Finding Inclusive Pricing
• 24:56: Gender-Neutral Pricing
• 28:02: Brand Impact
• 29:16: Hate And The Flag
• 30:53: Community Support Rally:
• 32:50: Simple Inclusion Steps
• 34:07: Rethinking The Menu
• 36:13: Awards And Brands
• 38:35: Saying Yes To Growth
• 39:41: Dreaming Bigger
• 43:36: Future Goals

EPISODE RESOURCES

• Connect with The Secret Garden on Instagram @thesecretgardenhair
• DISCOVER TODAY SPONSORS KERATIN COMPLEX PRODUCTS HERE

Are scary ingredient headlines warping your colour decisions? In this episode brought to you by Wella Professionals UKI, we’re joined by Ursus Schweitzer—an R&D connector who bridges the lab and the salon floor. He observes how productsare really used, then translates complex chemistry into clear, salon-ready truths.

Ursus cuts through the noise and decode what’s really inside the bottle so you can make smarter choices and educate clients with confidence.

You’ll learn how to separate study-based evidence from clickbait, why full formulations and purpose-built systems (including alkalizers) matter more than single “hero” or “villain” ingredients, how credible sourcing, biodegradability, and sustainability guide modern development, and practical ways to translate science into salon language.

An episode perfect for hairdressers and salon owners who are ready to swap noise for knowledge. Hit play!

CHAPTERS

• 6:32: Why Ingredients Matter Now
• 10:54: Ammonia Versus MEA
• 16:15: The Truth About Controversial Ingredients
• 21:06: Talking Confidence With Clients
• 23:08: Busting Ammonia Myths
• 26:05: Responding To Ingredient Concerns
• 28:24: The Future Of Formulation
• 33:13: Curiosity Over Caution

•

RESOURCES

• FOR MORE ON WELLA EDUCATION CLICK HERE
• VISIT WELLA STORE HERE
• CONNECT WITH WELLA PROFESSIONALS UKI ON INSTAGRAM @WELLAPROFESSIONALSUKI

What if colour work could be approached less like guesswork and more like investigation? In this episode I’m joined by Samantha Blues, founder of Colour Science Investigation, who explains her crime-scene-style framework for helping stylists move from guessing to predicting in colour.

Samantha discusses why many stylists are taught to focus on the finished look rather than what is happening inside the hair, and why hair reading, residue, underlying pigment and consultation questions are essential. She also covers toners, colour correction and the limits of relying on formulas alone, saying the goal is to build confidence, structure and better client communication.

Hit Play!

CHAPTERS

• 5:03: Why the Industry Fails Stylists
• 10:10: Toning Without Panic
• 12:24: Samantha’s Personal Turning Point
• 14:43: What Makes Great Colour
• 15:44: Stronger Consultations, Better Results
• 18:19: Hidden Colour Problems Exposed
• 20:15: Simplifying the Science
• 22:24: Inside the Six-Week Course
• 22:56: Why This Course Matters
• 25:27: Finding Time to Learn
• 27:11: Confidence, Loyalty, and Pricing Power
• 30:10: Facing Embarrassment and Learning
• 31:22: Brand Neutral and Accessible
• 33:09: Why Guessing Leads to Disaster

EPISODE RESOURCES

• FOR ALL COURSES AND MORE WITH SAMANTHA BLUES VISIT HERE
• CONNECT WITH SAMANTHA ON INSTAGRAM @SAMANTHABLUESCOLOURCOACH
• DISCOVER TODAY SPONSORS KERATIN COMPLEX PRODUCTS HERE
• TICKETS TO HAIRCON CLICK HERE USE CODE HTCI10 FOR 10% DISCOUNT

What if the thing holding your career back isn’t your skill—but your fear of being seen?

In this episode, I break down why stage work matters for hairdressers and barbers. It builds confidence, sharpens your communication, and transforms how you show up behind the chair.

I explore how performing unlocks creativity you didn’t know you had. How it opens doors to educator roles, brand work, and art teams. And why live visibility still hits different in a world dominated by algorithms.

I also share my own journey learning stage craft—and introduce SHAIR! UNDRGRND, a raw, unfiltered stage format I created for rising talent.

Plus, I announce SHAIR! UNDRGRND at HairCon Manchester, 14-15 June.

Ready to take your first step onto stage? Hit play.

EPISODE RESOURCES

APPLY FOR A STAGE SPOT AT SHAIR! UNDRGRND HERE

GET TICKETS TO HAIRCON HERE(USE CODE HTC10 FOR 10% OFF ALL TICKET PURCHASE)

FOLLOW SHAIR! ON INSTAGRAM @WEARESHAIR

CONNECT WITH DOM ON INSTAGRAM @DOMLEHANE

CONNECT WITH HOW TO CUT IT ON INSTAGRAM @HOWTOCUTIT

FIND OUT MORE ON TODAYS PAID SPONSORS KERATIN COMPLEX HERE

CHAPTERS

• 0:11: Stage Work Matters
• 2:41: Better Behind the Chair
• 4:25: Creative Freedom Onstage
• 4:55: Getting Noticed Live
• 7:01: Why Live Still Wins
• 7:41: My Stage Journey
• 9:42: Creating New Platforms
• 11:11 SHAIR! UNDRGRND Explained
• 12:16: Community and Culture
• 13:52: HairCon Takeover
• 16:52: Bigger Plans Ahead

What if your next job, chair, brand deal, or education booking didn’t come from battling an algorithm—but from one app built only for the hair industry? Meet Spotd!

In this episode of How To Cut It, I’mDom Lehane, and I’m joined by my fellow Spotd co-founders Richard England-Lee and Ollie Johns to break down Spotd—our soon to launch iOS and Android opportunity platform designed for hairdressers, barbers, salon owners, educators, and brands.

We share why we built it, what problems it solves, and what you can expect at launch. Think location-based opportunity alerts, curated profiles that work like a portfolio/CV, and a cleaner, more professional way to connect—without the noise of social media.

We’re building Spotd in public, and your feedback matters. Want early access (and a chance to test it)? Join the waitlist at https://getspotdapp.com/.

If you’re ready for your next big move in the hair industry—or just want to learn more—press play!

Episode Resources

• JOIN THE SPOTD WAITLIST: VISIThttps://getspotdapp.com/
• CONNECT WITH SPOTD ON INSTAGRAM @GETSPOTDAPP
• FOLLOW SPOTD ON TIKTOK @GETSPOTDAPP
• GET TICKETS FOR HAIRCON VISIT HERE :(USE CODE HTCI10 FOR 10% DISCOUNT)
• CONNECT WITH HAIRCON ON INSTAGRAM @HAIRCONSHOW
• FOLLOW HOW TO CUT IT ACROSS SOCIALS@HOWTOCUTIT

Chapters

• 0:40 Introducing Spotd
• 2:27 Meet the Co-Founders
• 3:47 The Importance of Spotd
• 5:40 Transitioning to the Hair Industry
• 7:02 What Is Spotd?
• 8:59 Solving Industry Problems
• 11:58 How Does Spotd Work?
• 12:33 User Experience and Profiles
• 15:09 Opportunities and Connections
• 19:04 Building the App
• 22:43 Building In Public
• 25:46 Project Features
• 30:12 Engaging with the Community
• 34:57 Event Management on Spot
• 38:58 Future Plans for Spotd
• 48:15 The Game-Changing Vision
•

Ever thought about adding hair extensions to your menu, but stopped because you’re not sure how to learn them properly, the return on investment, or whether the hair is ethically sourced?

In this HTCI x Remi Cachet partnered episode, I sit down with Remy Cachetfounder Victoria Lynch to get into the real questions: what responsible sourcing and sustainability actually mean in the extensions world, what salons should be asking suppliers, and where the red flags are.

We also break down the learning curve—how to move from “extensions-curious” to confidently offering them as a professional service, what training should include, and why consistency, standards and support matter just as much as the hair itself.

If you want to build a new revenue stream without compromising your values, this conversation will give you clarity and a practical way forward.

Chapters

• 4:53: Understanding Hair Issues
• 6:52: Passion for Hairdressing
• 8:25: The Rise of Remi Cachet
• 9:55: Ethical Considerations in Hair Extensions
• 12:20: Achieving B Corp Certification
• 14:51: Sustainable Practices in Packaging
• 17:17: Global Expansion Plans
• 18:57: Supporting the Next Generation
• 20:11: Red Flags in Choosing Suppliers
• 28:23: Innovation and Adaptation in Extensions
• 38:12: The Super Stylist Community
• 43:55: Education and Training Changes
• 49:58: Giving Back Through Change A Girl’s Life
• 1:00:05: Future Aspirations and Market Growth

Resources from todays episode

• FOR MORE ON REMI CACHET VISIT REMICACHET.COM
• CONNECT WITH REMI CACHET ON INSTAGRAM @REMICACHET
• CONNECT WITH VICTORIA ON INSTAGRAM @VICTORIAREMICACHET

Want to become a session stylist? This episode with Anna Chapman is the practical route in — not the fantasy.

I’m back in the HTCI PodShed with Anna Chapman, a leading session hair stylist with an instinctive understanding of hair and over a decade in top salons before moving into the session world. Todaywe’re to have real catch-up since we last spoke in 2020 podcast episode. Annabreaks down the actual steps to get into session work today: how to position yourself if you’re coming from salon, why session styling is a different job entirely, and what you need to do first to get on set.

We get into the assisting ladder (what assistants really do, how to reach out, how to follow up, and how to get yourself rebooked), plus the skills that matter when the pressure’s on for major brands. Anna also shares what to post on Instagram if you want work—how to show range, not just “glam”—and why persistence, visibility and standards are the long game.

If you’re serious about building a career insession hair, start here.

CHAPTERS

• 1:25: Breaking into Session Styling
• 6:47: The Reality of Assisting
• 12:21: Getting Paid as an Assistant
• 15:04: Defining Session Stylists
• 19:35: The Importance of Communication
• 23:11: Challenges for Women in the Industry
• 27:20: The Competitive Landscape
• 34:33: The Path to Success
• 37:49: The Importance of Apprenticeships
• 43:09: The Role of Social Media
• 50:26: How to Become an Assistant

RESOURCES FROM TODAYS EPISODE

• FOLLOW ANNA CHAPMAN ON INSTAGRAM @ANNACHAPMANHAIR
• FOR EVERYTHING SESSION KIT CLICK HERE
• CONNECT WITH SESSION KIT ON INSTAGRAM@SESSIONKIT
• GET TICKETS FOR HAIRCON VISIT HERE :(USE CODE HTCI10 FOR 10% DISCOUNT)
• CONNECT WITH HAIRCON ON INSTAGRAM @HAIRCONSHOW
• FOLLOW HOW TO CUT IT ACROSS SOCIALS@HOWTOCUTIT