Podcast

The Hair Hustle Podcast

Business, Entrepreneurship, Marketing

Welcome to The Hair Hustle Podcast, where business meets beauty! Hosted by Heather Podlesney, a salon coach with over 20 years of industry experience, over a decade of coaching market leading salons, and passion for helping stylists succeed, this podcast is your go-to resource for mastering the business side of the salon industry. Each week, we cover practical tips on budgeting, time management, retail strategies, and promotions to help you grow your profits and run a thriving salon business. Whether you’re behind the chair or behind the scenes, tune in to learn how to hustle smarter, not harder!

Episodes
109
Releases
Weekly
Typical length
21 min
On air since
2024
Latest episode
19 hours ago

Episodes

109 episodes, newest first

  1. Episode 108: The Independent SIDE of the Story.... PART 2

    Season 3, Episode 108

    Show notes

    2026 Holiday Guide: https://heatherpod.kit.com/133031041f

    FREE Holiday Success Guide HERE

    Contact Heather: helloheatherpod@gmail.com

    The BEST Independent Stylist Workbook you have ever had for $37: HERE

    Contact Bree: hairbybree22@gmail.com

    Follow Bree on IG @hairbybree22_

    Summary

    In this episode, Bree shares her journey from commission to independent stylist, the challenges she faced, and the key systems that helped her succeed. Heather and Bree discuss the realities of running an independent salon and what it takes to thrive in the industry.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction and guest background

    03:10 Bree’s start in the industry and initial challenges

    08:08 Deciding to go independent and initial fears

    12:26 Transitioning back to commission and reflections

    20:32 The importance of systems and habits

    33:47 Key systems that helped Brie succeed

    44:51 Who should not go independent

    48:11 Advice to her past self before making the switch

    50:38 Final thoughts and encouragement

    Keywords

    hair industry, independent stylist, salon ownership, commission vs independent, salon business, hair hustle, salon tips, stylist success, salon systems, hair industry insights

    Mentioned in this episode:

    www.heatherpodlesney.com/contact

    49 min
  2. Episode 107: 20 YEARS of Booth Rent to Commission Stylist?!?!

    Season 3, Episode 107

    Show notes

    2026 Holiday Guide: https://heatherpod.kit.com/133031041f

    FREE Holiday Success Guide HERE

    Contact Heather: helloheatherpod@gmail.com

    The BEST Independent Stylist Workbook you have ever had for $37: HERE

    Contact Sherry: yrrehsa@aol.com

    Summary

    In this episode, Heather Podlesney interviews Sherry about her journey from independent stylist to commissioned salon team member. They discuss the differences, benefits, challenges, and key questions to consider when making the switch, providing valuable insights for stylists contemplating their career path.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction and guest background

    01:55 Sherry's transition from independent to commission

    05:08 Benefits of working in a team environment

    07:06 Deciding factors for switching to a commission salon

    08:58 What Sherry misses and doesn't miss about independence

    11:58 Questions to ask when considering a salon change

    16:02 Financial aspects: pay structure and growth

    19:58 Pricing strategies and emotional pricing

    23:58 Flexibility and work schedule considerations

    28:52 Overcoming judgment and industry perceptions

    35:07 The value of community and education in salons

    38:07 Who is best suited for a commission environment

    42:05 Advice to stylists contemplating a switch

    44:54 Final thoughts and encouragement

    Keywords

    hair industry, stylist, independent, commission, salon, career transition, flexibility, pricing, team, education

    Mentioned in this episode:

    www.heatherpodlesney.com/contact

    48 min
  3. Episode 106: Can you be picky about your clients when you are a new stylist?

    Season 3, Episode 106

    Show notes

    FREE Holiday Success Guide HERE

    Contact Heather: helloheatherpod@gmail.com

    The BEST Independent Stylist Workbook you have ever had for $37: HERE

    Summary

    In this episode, Heather Podlesney discusses whether beginner stylists should take every client, emphasizing the importance of experience, relationship building, and strategic client selection to grow in the industry.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction and episode overview

    3249:59:53 The value of diverse client interactions

    6166:39:53 Why beginner stylists should be open to all clients

    9138:53:13 The importance of relationship building

    12361:06:33 The potential magic in every client opportunity

    13722:13:20 Closing thoughts and encouragement

    Keywords

    hair styling, beginner stylists, client management, salon business, customer service, professional growth

    8 min
  4. Episode 105: The dreaded SATURDAY topic...

    Season 3, Episode 105

    Show notes

    FREE Holiday Success Guide HERE

    Contact Heather: helloheatherpod@gmail.com

    Interested in a Class at your salon OR Coaching: CLICK HERE

    Grab the Know Your Numbers Worksheet: CLICK HERE

    The BEST Independent Stylist Workbook you have ever had for $37: HERE

    Summary

    In this episode, Heather Podlesney explores whether hairstylists should be required to work on Saturdays, considering different perspectives and life stages. She discusses the evolving client preferences, salon expectations, and personal boundaries around weekend work.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction and episode overview

    02:18 Personal experience with working weekends and boundaries

    03:19 The importance of salon culture and expectations

    04:16 The role of specialty services like bridal work

    05:39 Considering life stage and personal boundaries

    07:01 The impact of salon size and independence on Saturday work

    08:27 Advice for young stylists and career growth

    09:54 Client preferences and modern scheduling trends

    11:13 Evolving industry norms and personal boundaries

    13:32 Final thoughts and audience engagement

    Keywords

    hairstylist, Saturdays, salon work, client preferences, work-life balance, career growth, salon ownership, flexible schedules, industry trends

    Mentioned in this episode:

    www.heatherpodlesney.com/contact

    15 min
  5. Episode 104: HOT TAKE - Is Retail Dead?

    Season 3, Episode 104

    Show notes

    FREE Holiday Success Guide HERE

    Contact Heather: helloheatherpod@gmail.com

    Interested in a Class at your salon OR Coaching: CLICK HERE

    Grab the Know Your Numbers Worksheet: CLICK HERE

    The BEST Independent Stylist Workbook you have ever had for $37: HERE

    Summary

    In this episode, Heather shares her honest opinion on whether every salon should sell retail, emphasizing the importance of having a curated product portfolio and exploring various ways to carry retail without heavy investment.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction and Heather's stance on retail in salons

    02:28 Different ways to carry retail products

    04:51 Retail as part of the salon service and education

    05:47 The necessity of products for hair health and problem-solving

    07:13 Choosing the right products for clients

    08:28 Final thoughts and audience engagement

    Keywords

    salon retail, hair products, retail strategy, salon business, product portfolio, retail on shelf, affiliate programs, Amazon influence, hair solutions, salon tips

    Mentioned in this episode:

    www.heatherpodlesney.com/contact

    10 min
  6. Episode 103: HOT TAKE - Should you give out YOUR personal number?

    Season 3, Episode 103

    Show notes

    FREE Holiday Success Guide HERE

    Contact Heather: helloheatherpod@gmail.com

    Interested in a Class at your salon OR Coaching: CLICK HERE

    Grab the Know Your Numbers Worksheet: CLICK HERE

    The BEST Independent Stylist Workbook you have ever had for $37: HERE

    Summary

    In this episode, Heather shares her candid thoughts on whether stylists should give out their personal phone numbers to clients, exploring different salon environments and practical boundaries.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction and episode overview

    02:16 Boundaries and managing client contact

    04:44 Salon environment and receptionist benefits

    07:00 The importance of being accessible to clients

    08:02 Balancing boundaries with customer service

    09:02 Closing thoughts and listener engagement

    Keywords

    hair stylist, client communication, boundaries, salon tips, independent stylist, commission salon, customer service, professional boundaries

    Mentioned in this episode:

    www.heatherpodlesney.com/contact

    10 min
  7. Episode 102: Industry Legend Michael Cole on Current Salon Ecosystems and the Future of the Professional Beauty Industry

    Season 3, Episode 102

    Show notes

    Follow Michael on IG @michaelcoleinspires

    FREE Holiday Success Guide HERE

    Contact Heather: helloheatherpod@gmail.com

    Interested in a Class at your salon OR Coaching: CLICK HERE

    Grab the Know Your Numbers Worksheet: CLICK HERE

    The BEST Independent Stylist Workbook you have ever had for $37: HERE

    Summary

    In this episode, industry veteran Michael Cole shares over 50 years of insights on the future of the beauty industry, coaching, and creating thriving salon ecosystems. Heather Podlesney hosts a deep conversation on adapting to industry changes, the power of community, and emotional intelligence in salons.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Michael Cole and his industry journey

    02:08 Michael shares his background and career in beauty

    04:30 Highlights of Michael’s contributions and programs

    06:14 Industry noise and future trends in salons

    09:30 Redundancy, burnout, and the importance of community

    12:31 The ecosystem versus culture in salons

    15:00 The role of community in professional growth

    17:11 The importance of coaching and prevention

    20:55 Addressing loud narratives and industry myths

    22:07 The impact of generational differences and coaching styles

    25:22 Adapting coaching for Gen Z and younger stylists

    28:37 Retail, extensions, and evolving industry practices

    33:01 Coaching strategies for different generations

    36:29 The power of pausing and emotional intelligence

    43:14 Creating a positive salon ecosystem and emotional episodes

    52:38 Helping older stylists and bridging generational gaps

    56:52 Unlearning patterns and developing new habits

    01:01:13 The practice of awareness and the pause journal

    01:09:24 Understanding emotional episodes and experiences

    01:14:22 Practical steps for salon owners to foster ecosystem

    01:17:15 Final thoughts and legacy in the industry

    Keywords

    beauty industry, salon coaching, salon ecosystems, industry trends, emotional intelligence, leadership, community, burnout, Gen Z, professional growth

    Mentioned in this episode:

    www.heatherpodlesney.com/contact

    1 hr 17 min
  8. Episode 101: Holiday Success with Joe Sileo

    Season 3, Episode 101

    Show notes

    FREE Holiday Success Guide HERE

    Contact Heather: helloheatherpod@gmail.com

    Contact Joe Sileo: joesileo1@gmail.com

    Interested in a Class at your salon OR Coaching: CLICK HERE

    Grab the Know Your Numbers Worksheet: CLICK HERE

    The BEST Independent Stylist Workbook you have ever had for $37: HERE

    Summary

    In this episode, Heather Podlesney interviews Joe Sileo from Do Good Consulting about how salon owners and stylists can effectively plan and maximize their holiday sales. They discuss timing, planning strategies, product selection, and how to engage guests to boost holiday retail success. In this episode, Joe Sileo and Heather discuss effective holiday sales strategies for salons, team incentives, and maintaining a joyful work environment during busy seasons. They share practical tips on planning, motivating staff, and creating memorable guest experiences to boost holiday retail success.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction and guest introduction

    03:55 When to start planning and preparing for holiday sales

    08:10 Maximizing sales in November and December

    12:12 Planning conversations with guests about holiday needs

    15:46 Data and reports for holiday planning

    19:59 Testing new lines and product offerings during holiday

    24:02 Creating a sense of urgency and display visibility

    26:51 Gift ideas for clients, friends, and family

    28:11 Questions to ask guests about holiday gifting needs

    29:06 Planning for increased guest visits and new clients

    30:04 Analyzing last year's sales and inventory

    31:02 Strategies for increasing purchase volume and display

    32:01 The importance of early product placement and signage

    33:04 Encouraging gift re-gifting and multiple purchases

    34:06 Fun holiday games and activities to boost sales

    35:09 Setting sales goals and overcoming limiting beliefs

    36:00 Case studies of successful holiday sales strategies

    37:02 Final tips for holiday planning and execution

    38:05 Closing remarks and key takeaways

    Keywords

    salon, holiday sales, retail, planning, marketing, products, customer engagement, sales strategy, holiday season, salon business salon sales, holiday retail, team incentives, customer experience, holiday planning, salon management, retail strategies, staff motivation, customer service, holiday season

    Mentioned in this episode:

    www.heatherpodlesney.com/contact

    1 hr 15 min
  9. EPISODE 100: Heather's Candid Interview - why she is so passionate about the industry!

    Season 3, Episode 100

    Show notes

    Contact Heather: helloheatherpod@gmail.com

    Interested in a Class at your salon OR Coaching: CLICK HERE

    Grab the Know Your Numbers Worksheet: CLICK HERE

    The BEST Independent Stylist Workbook you have ever had for $37: HERE

    Summary

    In this episode, Heather Podlesney shares her journey from corporate sales to the beauty industry, emphasizing the importance of business skills for stylists. She discusses strategies for growing a salon, effective consultation techniques, marketing tips, and how to navigate leaving a salon professionally. In this episode, Heather and her guest discuss the realities of transitioning from salon ownership to independence, the importance of respect in professional relationships, and practical advice for stylists aiming to grow their careers while maintaining integrity and balance.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction and Heather's Background

    01:00 Heather's Journey from Corporate to Beauty

    03:30 Lessons Learned from Corporate Sales

    06:36 Key Business Skills for Stylists

    08:00 Pricing and Mindset Shifts

    12:09 Client Scheduling and Client Preferences

    14:00 Consultation Mistakes and Opportunities

    21:01 Effective Promotions for Growth

    26:12 Marketing on Social Media for Stylists

    32:03 Content Creation and Personal Branding

    38:27 Mindset Challenges and Salon Transitions

    41:21 Balancing Behind-the-Chair Work and Coaching

    46:17 Leaving a Salon Professionally

    Keywords

    beauty industry, salon growth, stylist tips, social media marketing, salon management, client consultation, pricing strategies, independent stylist, salon owner, marketing tips hair industry, salon independence, professional respect, career growth, salon management, stylist tips, business mindset, industry insights

    Mentioned in this episode:

    www.heatherpodlesney.com/knowyournumbers

    www.heatherpodlesney.com/contact

    1 hr 33 min
  10. Episode 99: Is SIX Figures a Real Goal for a Stylist in a Rural Area?

    Season 3, Episode 99

    Show notes

    Contact Heather: helloheatherpod@gmail.com

    Interested in a Class at your salon OR Coaching: CLICK HERE

    Grab the Know Your Numbers Worksheet: CLICK HERE

    The BEST Independent Stylist Workbook you have ever had for $37: HERE

    Summary

    This episode breaks down the realistic path to earning a six-figure income as a stylist, focusing on practical numbers and strategies to reach your income goals. Whether you're behind the chair or considering your next step, learn how to break down your service sales, average ticket, and guest count to make six figures achievable.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction: Breaking Down the Six-Figure Goal

    02:03 Understanding the 50% Rule for Easy Math

    03:01 Is Making Six Figures Possible in the Midwest?

    03:42 Breaking Down the Income Goal into Service Sales

    06:26 How Many Service Sales Are Needed Monthly?

    07:15 Daily and Weekly Sales Goals Breakdown

    08:10 Calculating Service Goals per Day and Guest Count

    10:18 Adjusting for Average Ticket and Guest Volume

    12:02 Strategies to Increase Your Income and Reach Goals

    13:58 Final Tips and Encouragement to Achieve Six Figures

    Keywords

    stylist income, six-figure stylist, service sales, average ticket, hair salon business, salon income goals, independent stylist, salon coaching, hair industry tips

    Mentioned in this episode:

    www.heatherpodlesney.com/contact

    15 min
  11. Episode 98: HOT TAKE - Should you Niche Down as a Hairstylist?

    Season 3, Episode 98

    Show notes

    Contact Heather: helloheatherpod@gmail.com

    Interested in a Class at your salon OR Coaching: CLICK HERE

    Grab the Know Your Numbers Worksheet: CLICK HERE

    The BEST Independent Stylist Workbook you have ever had for $37: HERE

    Summary

    In this episode, Heather shares insights on niching down as a stylist, how to add value through social media, and the importance of aligning your business goals with your services. She discusses common misconceptions about niching and offers practical advice for stylists at any stage of their career.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction and episode overview

    02:09 Social media trends and industry hot takes

    04:28 The importance of showing how you add value

    07:44 Positioning yourself with a clear value statement

    08:41 Geographic considerations for niching

    09:38 Aligning schedule, income, and niche goals

    10:08 How Heather defines her niche and value

    11:29 Evaluating your content and target audience

    12:28 The importance of clarity on goals and services

    13:25 Closing remarks and audience engagement

    Keywords

    stylist niching, social media for stylists, salon business, hair industry tips, branding, marketing, client attraction, business growth, hair styling, salon success

    15 min
  12. Episode 97: What type of stylist should you be? Independent? Commission? Owner?

    Season 3, Episode 97

    Show notes

    Contact Heather: helloheatherpod@gmail.com

    Interested in a Class at your salon OR Coaching: CLICK HERE

    Grab the Know Your Numbers Worksheet: CLICK HERE

    The BEST Independent Stylist Workbook you have ever had for $37: HERE

    Summary

    In this episode, Heather Podlesney discusses the realities of transitioning between commission and independent styling, debunking industry myths and offering practical advice for stylists considering their career options.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction and episode overview

    00:31 Heather's perspective on salon career paths

    01:28 The divide between commission and independent stylists

    02:27 Industry myths about salon structures

    03:41 The realities of leaving a commission salon

    04:50 Financial considerations and earning potential

    07:10 Preparing for a career transition

    09:23 Building your book and client retention

    12:13 Knowing your numbers and business skills

    14:22 Season of life and personal circumstances

    17:34 Myth-busting and industry misconceptions

    19:36 Resources and coaching options

    20:26 Closing thoughts and encouragement

    Keywords

    hair stylist, commission vs independent, salon business, career advice, hair industry, salon ownership, stylist tips, business mindset, hair industry myths

    Mentioned in this episode:

    www.heatherpodlesney.com/contact

    www.heatherpodlesney.com/contact

    www.heatherpodlesney.com/knowyournumbers

    21 min
  13. Episode 96: Hours BTC or on the Business?

    Season 3, Episode 96

    Show notes

    Contact Heather: helloheatherpod@gmail.com

    Interested in a Class at your salon OR Coaching: CLICK HERE

    Grab the Know Your Numbers Worksheet: CLICK HERE

    The BEST Independent Stylist Workbook you have ever had for $37: HERE

    Summary

    In this episode, Heather Podlesney shares practical strategies for independent stylists and salon owners to better manage their time and grow their business by focusing on working on it, not just in it.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction and episode overview

    00:30 Why mini episodes are valuable for quick actionable tips

    01:26 Understanding the difference between working behind the chair and on the business

    02:51 The importance of working on your business for profitability

    04:17 The 1 hour per 8-10 hours rule for business tasks

    06:39 Starting small: 15-20 minutes for organizing your business

    07:30 Batching content and managing social media efficiently

    09:02 The impact of fixing pricing and rebooking on your business

    10:13 Auditing your weekly schedule to find time for business growth

    11:24 Encouragement to start now and organize for a successful 2026

    11:53 Closing remarks and next episode teaser

    Keywords

    hair salon, independent stylist, business management, time management, salon owner, productivity, social media, organizing, profitability

    Mentioned in this episode:

    www.heatherpodlesney.com/contact

    www.heatherpodlesney.com/knowyournumbers

    www.heatherpodlesney.com/contact

    13 min
  14. Episode 95: Bundling and Boundaries - Stop calling bundling 'packages'! They are not the same!

    Season 3, Episode 95

    Show notes

    Contact Heather: helloheatherpod@gmail.com

    Interested in a Class at your salon OR Coaching: CLICK HERE

    Grab the Know Your Numbers Worksheet: CLICK HERE

    The BEST Independent Stylist Workbook you have ever had for $37: HERE

    Summary

    In this episode, Heather Podlesney discusses the importance of setting boundaries, conducting a boundary audit, and understanding the financial impact of time, price, and access leaks in your salon business. She shares practical tips to reset and improve your business practices for better success and work-life balance.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to the episode and upcoming season plans

    02:21 Reflecting on the first half of 2026 and the importance of a reset

    04:07 Personal insights on living in the Midwest and summer moments

    05:02 The significance of boundary audits in business and personal life

    06:23 Who should listen to this episode: stylists and salon owners

    07:18 The concept of bundling services and setting prices

    08:38 How to stop grandfathering in prices and set boundaries

    09:17 Understanding boundaries as related to feelings and numbers

    09:38 Calculating dollar costs of boundary violations

    10:03 Time leaks: managing client scheduling and punctuality

    11:24 Price leaks: bundling and pricing strategies

    14:09 Avoiding nickel and diming clients and product overcharging

    15:38 Managing access leaks with tools like bricks and apps

    18:26 Using apps to control digital boundaries and time management

    19:44 Focusing on one leak at a time for improvement

    20:45 Enforcing policies and boundaries for lasting change

    Keywords

    salon business, boundaries, pricing, time management, access leaks, salon tips, business reset, work-life balance

    Mentioned in this episode:

    www.heatherpodlesney.com/knowyournumbers

    www.heatherpodlesney.com/contact

    www.heatherpodlesney.com/contact

    20 min
  15. Episode 94: REPLAY (use this as your check in!) YOU NEED THIS for 2026

    Season 2, Episode 94

    Show notes

    Interested in a Class at your salon OR Coaching: CLICK HERE

    Grab the Know Your Numbers Worksheet: CLICK HERE

    Summary

    In this episode of the Hair Hustle Podcast, host Heather Podlesney shares essential insights for stylists as they enter 2026. She emphasizes the importance of understanding profitability versus mere busyness, the necessity of charging appropriately for services, and the significance of setting healthy boundaries. Heather also encourages stylists to embrace their roles as CEOs of their businesses and to practice kindness in their interactions, recognizing that everyone faces challenges. This episode serves as a motivational guide for stylists to start the new year with clarity and purpose.

    Chapters

    00:00 Welcome to the Hair Hustle Podcast

    02:32 Setting the Stage for 2026

    02:56 Understanding Profitability vs. Busyness

    05:48 The Importance of Charging What You Deserve

    07:51 Establishing Healthy Boundaries

    10:43 Embracing Your Role as CEO

    12:56 The Power of Kindness in the Industry

    Keywords

    hair, salon, stylists, business coaching, profitability, boundaries, self-care, kindness, 2026 goals, beauty industry

    Mentioned in this episode:

    www.heatherpodlesney.com/contact

    www.heatherpodlesney.com/contact

    www.heatherpodlesney.com/knowyournumbers

    18 min
  16. Episode 93: REPLAY - How to Utilized One of the Biggest Salon Resources

    Season 2, Episode 93

    Show notes

    Interested in a Class at your salon OR Coaching: CLICK HERE

    Grab the Know Your Numbers Worksheet: CLICK HERE

    Contact Heather: helloheatherpod@gmail.com

    Questions or work with Melissa Gross: 616-299-4869 and mgross@manocoblue.com

    Summary

    In this episode, Heather Podlesny interviews Melissa Gross, a seasoned salon sales consultant with over 25 years of industry experience. They discuss how stylists and salon owners can leverage sales consultants for business growth, retail success, and industry insights, emphasizing community, confidence, and strategic systems.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction

    01:20 Melissa Gross's Industry Journey and Experience

    03:38 Successful Salon Systems and Retail Strategies

    06:17 Misunderstandings About Sales Consultants' Role

    09:12 Industry Trends: Cleaner Ingredients and Sustainability

    11:33 Helping Struggling Stylists and Small Salons

    14:47 Maximizing Value from Your Sales Consultant

    19:23 Add-on Services and Business Growth Ideas

    21:42 Melissa's Unexpected Industry Insights

    24:11 Community, Support, and Overcoming Industry Challenges

    27:02 Salon Owner and Stylist Complaints and Misconceptions

    30:02 Addressing Common Salon Industry Complaints

    31:49 Melissa's Advice for Engaging with Sales Consultants

    35:33 Supporting Your Salon Community and Collaboration

    37:15 Closing Remarks and Resources for Listeners

    Keywords

    Salon sales, retail strategies, industry insights, salon community, business growth, salon owner tips, sales consultant role, salon success, hair industry trends

    Mentioned in this episode:

    www.heatherpodlesney.com/contact

    www.heatherpodlesney.com/knowyournumbers

    www.heatherpodlesney.com/contact

    38 min
  17. Episode 92: REPLAY - Brand Shopping with Surface Hair

    Season 2, Episode 92

    Show notes

    Contact Heather: helloheatherpod@gmail.com

    Interested in a Class at your salon OR Coaching: CLICK HERE

    Grab the Know Your Numbers Worksheet: CLICK HERE

    Summary

    In this episode of the Hair Hustle podcast, Heather Podlesney hosts representatives from Surface, Sean Carlson and Cassie Laub, to discuss industry insights, brand support, retail strategies, and upcoming events. They share valuable tips for salon owners and stylists to thrive in a competitive market, emphasizing the importance of education, brand partnerships, and strategic planning.

    CONTACTS:

    Heather: helloheatherpod@gmail.com

    Cassy: claub@surfacehair.com

    Sean: scarlson@surfacehair.com

    LINKS:

    Retreat:

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Hair Hustle Podcast

    01:24 Meet the Surface Team

    06:10 State of the Industry: Challenges and Opportunities

    14:06 The Importance of Brand Support

    21:26 Questions to Ask Your Brand

    27:58 Finding the Right Brand and Distributor

    34:50 The Emotional Connection to Products

    39:56 Navigating Brand Loyalty in Salons

    45:43 The Importance of Awareness and Responsibility

    51:06 Thriving vs Surviving Salons

    57:16 Identifying Survival Mode in Salon Owners

    01:00:39 Connecting with Support for Salons

    01:04:10 The Importance of Partnership in the Beauty Industry

    01:05:40 Wellness Sanctuary Retreat: A New Experience

    01:08:03 Spilling the Tea: Insights from the Brand Side

    01:16:01 Surface's New All-In Product Launch

    01:22:38 Introducing Surface Unscripted: A New Podcast

    01:25:45 How to Connect with Surface Team

    Keywords

    hair industry, salon retail, brand support, Surface, salon success, retail strategies, industry insights, salon coaching, Surface Unscripted, salon events

    Mentioned in this episode:

    www.heatherpodlesney.com/contact

    www.heatherpodlesney.com/knowyournumbers

    www.heatherpodlesney.com/contact

    1 hr 28 min
  18. Episode 91: Guest Experience Series - De Escalating Keyboard Courage Clients

    Season 2, Episode 91

    Show notes

    Contact Heather: helloheatherpod@gmail.com

    Interested in a Class at your salon OR Coaching: CLICK HERE

    Grab the Know Your Numbers Worksheet: CLICK HERE

    Summary

    This episode offers practical strategies for hairstylists and salon owners to handle unhappy clients effectively, especially through social media and in-person interactions. It provides a framework for de-escalation, communication tips, and ways to turn negative experiences into learning opportunities.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to the Guest Experience Series

    01:50 Handling Unhappy Clients

    05:29 Reframing Complaints as Opportunities

    07:57 De-escalation Framework for Client Complaints

    12:29 Offering Solutions: Redo, Adjustment, or Refund

    17:46 Professional Communication with Clients

    Keywords

    hairstylist, salon owner, unhappy clients, client communication, de-escalation, social media, customer service, hair color, conflict resolution, salon business

    Mentioned in this episode:

    www.heatherpodlesney.com/knowyournumbers

    www.heatherpodlesney.com/contact

    www.heatherpodlesney.com/contact

    23 min
  19. Episode 90: Guest Experience Series - Let Your Feed Be Your First Impression

    Season 2, Episode 90

    Show notes

    Contact Heather: helloheatherpod@gmail.com

    Interested in a Class at your salon OR Coaching: CLICK HERE

    Grab the Know Your Numbers Worksheet: CLICK HERE

    Summary

    In this episode of the Hair Hustle Podcast, Heather Podlesney discusses how your social media feed is your first impression and shares practical strategies for stylists and salon owners to attract and retain clients through effective social media use. She emphasizes the importance of authenticity, consistency, and leveraging both old and new school tactics to build a strong online presence.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to the Guest Experience Series

    03:08 The Importance of Social Media for Stylists

    05:54 Building Your Brand Through Social Media

    09:00 Creating Engaging Content for Your Audience

    11:45 The Four Pillars of Social Media Posting

    18:16 Encouraging Client Engagement and Retention

    21:59 Actionable Steps for Social Media Improvement

    Keywords

    social media marketing, client attraction, salon branding, social media tips, hairstylist marketing, guest experience, online presence, social media strategy, client retention, personal branding

    Mentioned in this episode:

    www.heatherpodlesney.com/knowyournumbers

    www.heatherpodlesney.com/contact

    www.heatherpodlesney.com/contact

    29 min
  20. Episode 89: Guest Experience - THE Controversial REBOOK

    Season 2, Episode 89

    Show notes

    Contact Heather: helloheatherpod@gmail.com

    Interested in a Class at your salon OR Coaching: CLICK HERE

    Grab the Know Your Numbers Worksheet: CLICK HERE

    Summary

    In this episode, Heather Podlesney discusses the importance of pre-booking for hairstylists, debunking myths and sharing practical strategies to build a sustainable business. She emphasizes how pre-booking enhances client retention, income stability, and professional confidence.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to the episode and topic overview

    00:32 Debunking social media myths about not pre-booking

    01:23 The shift in industry perspectives on pre-booking

    02:22 Why pre-booking is vital for a sustainable business

    04:45 Understanding the 65% pre-book rate benchmark

    05:44 Common reasons stylists avoid asking for rebooking

    06:15 Reframing the conversation: Helping clients maintain their look

    07:52 How to plant the seed for rebooking during the service

    09:20 Using confident language to secure future appointments

    10:43 Handling client hesitation and follow-up gracefully

    11:41 The importance of professional communication and client experience

    12:10 Action steps: Improving pre-book rates and business sustainability

    Keywords

    hairstylist, pre-booking, client retention, salon business, sustainable income, hair industry, booking strategies

    Mentioned in this episode:

    www.heatherpodlesney.com/contact

    www.heatherpodlesney.com/knowyournumbers

    www.heatherpodlesney.com/contact

    14 min