Podcast
The Hair Hustle Podcast
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
-
49 min
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
-
48 min
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
-
8 min
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
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15 min
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
-
10 min
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
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
-
1 hr 17 min
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 15 min
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 33 min
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
-
15 min
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
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
-
21 min
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
-
13 min
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
-
20 min
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
-
18 min
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
-
38 min
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
-
1 hr 28 min
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
-
23 min
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
-
29 min
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
-
14 min
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
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