Grow My Salon Business Podcast

In this episode, I sit down with Australian salon owner Luke Reynolds to talk about one of the most powerful drivers of salon success, which he believes is investing in the personal development of your people.Luke shares how he's integrated monthly life coaching sessions, meditation practices, and even equine therapy into his team culture. It’s a fascinating conversation about building confidence, communication, and community in the workplace, and the profound effect this has on the day-to-day salon environment.What I really loved about this chat is how naturally these initiatives grew into a cornerstone of Luke’s business, creating a safe, supportive, and high-functioning team that clients notice and appreciate. We also touch on the challenges younger team members face today and how personal development tools can help them not just survive, but thrive. If you're passionate about building a culture that retains great people, this is one you won’t want to miss.IN THIS EPISODE:[00:00] Intro and welcome[00:48] Meet Luke Reynolds and his culture-first approach[02:00] Why Luke brought in a life coach for his team[05:00] Addressing anxiety and mental health in apprentices[07:00] How personal growth improves communication and confidence[10:35] Creating a safe, vulnerable space for learning[13:00] Why Luke stays out of the sessions and what happens after[16:35] When the life coach couldn’t come: Sound healing and meditation[19:45] How these initiatives impact salon culture and performance[21:30] A client’s unsolicited feedback that says it all[27:11] Equine therapy as a team building day[30:00] Trust, communication, and personal breakthroughs with horses[37:10] What’s next for Luke’s team[38:44] Wrapping up and plans for a follow-up episodeWant MORE to help you GROW?📚 Check out our Bestselling GROW Books https://growmysalonbusiness.com/books/🆘 Management overwhelm!? Download our free checklist! This checklist will help you get clarity on where you're at https://growmysalonbusiness.com/management-checklist/RATINGS + REVIEWS🙏Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated! They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast.👉 Here's what you do:- On your phone, Click here  (Read steps below first)- Scroll down to 'Ratings & Reviews'- Tap on the empty purple stars and rate 5 stars- Click on ‘Write a Review’ I love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast! Thank you for your support! 🙏Until next time!Antony 👉 FOLLOW US!Instagram | Facebook | Website👉 FOLLOW LUKE REYNOLDS HAIRDRESSING!Instagram | Website👉 FOLLOW LUKE REYNOLDS!Instagram

Welcome to episode 300! It’s a milestone I’m incredibly proud of, and I want to thank you for being part of the journey. Whether you’re listening while walking the dog, doing the school run, or lifting weights at the gym, I’m grateful to have you here.In this episode, I’m sharing the 10 timeless principles of salon money management. These aren’t fluffy ideas; they’re hard-won lessons from my own experience and from years of coaching salon owners around the world. If you want to go beyond just “doing great hair” and actually run a profitable business, this one’s for you. Let’s make sense of the numbers and start building a business that works for you, not the other way around.IN THIS EPISODE:[00:00] Celebrating 300 episodes and listeners around the world[02:22] Why timeless business principles still matter[03:00] The hairdresser-to-business-owner journey[04:02] Why financial literacy matters more than talent alone[04:57] Principle 1: Revenue does not equal success; profit is the real goal[05:55] Principle 2: Separate your business and personal finances[06:38] Principle 3: Be careful who you take advice from[07:16] Principle 4: Learn to love your numbers[08:15] Principle 5: Focus on your core salon offering[09:00] Principle 6: More money isn’t always the solution[09:36] Principle 7: More clients don’t always mean more profit[09:53] Principle 8: Invest in your business and personal growth[10:16] Principle 9: Build an emergency fund, stuff happens[11:00] Principle 10: Money is a game, learn to play it wellWant MORE to help you GROW?📚 Check out our Bestselling GROW Books https://growmysalonbusiness.com/books/🆘 Management overwhelm!? Download our free checklist! This checklist will help you get clarity on where you're at https://growmysalonbusiness.com/management-checklist/RATINGS + REVIEWS🙏Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated! They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast.👉 Here's what you do:- On your phone, Click here  (Read steps below first)- Scroll down to 'Ratings & Reviews'- Tap on the empty purple stars and rate 5 stars- Click on ‘Write a Review’ I love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast! Thank you for your support! 🙏Until next time!AntonyRESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:Free Masterclass - The Financially Savvy Salon Owner -  Monday, June 23rd - Save your seat The Money Course - You don't need to be a numbers genius. You just need the right steps in the right order to transform your salon’s financial future. Find out more 👉 FOLLOW US!Instagram | Facebook | Website

In this episode, I’m joined by Narad Kutowaroo, Creative Director for Unite Haircare in the UK, to talk all things Fashion Week and specifically, the Runway Ready bootcamp that gives hairdressers the opportunity to work backstage.Narad shares how Runway Ready gives salon stylists real-world experience at London Fashion Week and beyond, and more importantly, how the skills learnt translate directly back into faster, better, and more confident salon work. We also discuss why styling is more than just “hair up,” how to thrive under pressure, and the impact this kind of creative experience can have on your confidence, speed, and even client attraction. Whether you’re curious or committed, there’s something here for everyone.IN THIS EPISODE:[00:00] Welcome and introduction to Narad Kutowaroo and Unite’s Runway Ready bootcamp[02:23] Origins of Runway Ready - from US concept to global expansion[03:25] The inspiration behind opening doors to Fashion Week[05:33] What to expect during the two-day bootcamp[07:35] Who can enrol and what are the experience level requirements[15:59] Experience levels - from new graduates to 30-year veterans[22:13] Benefits for salon owners sending their teams[32:38] The motivation and transformation of a Fashion Week experience[35:23] Mix of salon employees and self-employed stylists[39:03] Biggest misconceptions about editorial work and who is suited for this type of work[44:22] How to find out more about Unite’s Runway Ready bootcamp and connect with NaradWant MORE to help you GROW?📚 Check out our Bestselling GROW Books https://growmysalonbusiness.com/books/🆘Management overwhelm!? Download our free checklist! This checklist will help you get clarity on where you're at https://growmysalonbusiness.com/management-checklist/RATINGS + REVIEWS🙏Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated! They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast.👉 Here's what you do:- On your phone, Click here  (Read steps below first)- Scroll down to 'Ratings & Reviews'- Tap on the empty purple stars and rate 5 stars- Click on ‘Write a Review’ I love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast! Thank you for your support! 🙏Until next time!AntonyRESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:👉 Click here to find out more about Unite’s ‘Runway Ready Bootcamp’To listen to a previous episode with Andrew Dale founder of Unite, head to Episode 097 👉 FOLLOW US!Instagram | Facebook | Website👉 FOLLOW LACEYS HAIR & BEAUTY!Instagram | Website👉 FOLLOW UNITE UK!Instagram | Website👉 FOLLOW NARAD KUTOWAROO!Instagram

In this episode, I’m sharing a real-life story from one of the salon owners in my online money course. She found herself heading into a cash flow crisis, not because she was doing something wrong, but because life happened. Staff resignations, injuries, and pre-booked leave collided to create a perfect storm of reduced income. The good news? She saw it coming. And that’s the power of planning.We walk through the strategies I shared with her, what to do, what to avoid, and most importantly, how to stay calm and proactive. Whether you’re in a financial squeeze or just want to bulletproof your business, this episode is packed with practical advice and a big reminder: the best way to survive a crisis is to see it coming and prepare before it hits.IN THIS EPISODE:[00:00] Introduction and today’s topic: managing a cash flow crisis[00:55] Real-life scenario from a salon owner in the Money course[04:57] Ideas to increase income before touching savings[06:22] Strategies for short-term staffing solutions[08:55] Reducing outgoings: where to trim the fat[10:12] Hiring strategically: assistants and productivity[14:41] 10 key lessons for navigating a cash flow crunch[18:03] Free resources and upcoming Money course infoWant MORE to help you GROW?📚 Check out our Bestselling GROW Books https://growmysalonbusiness.com/books/🆘  Management overwhelm!? Download our free checklist! This checklist will help you get clarity on where you're at https://growmysalonbusiness.com/management-checklist/RATINGS + REVIEWS🙏Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated! They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast.👉 Here's what you do:- On your phone, Click here  (Read steps below first)- Scroll down to 'Ratings & Reviews'- Tap on the empty purple stars and rate 5 stars- Click on ‘Write a Review’ I love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast! Thank you for your support! 🙏Until next time!AntonyRESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:👉 How to Navigate a Path Through Difficult Financial Times - Free Video Training. Visit our Free Resources page and have the video and workbook sent straight to your inbox!Online Money Course - Find out more! 👉 FOLLOW US!Instagram | Facebook | Website

In this episode, I’m joined by Phil Evans, the founder of Salon Guru, who specialises in websites and digital marketing for salons. It's been five years since Phil was last on the podcast, and during that time, the digital landscape has evolved significantly, especially when it comes to how Google drives traffic to your salon.We dive deep into understanding Google Search, Google Profiles (formerly Google My Business), and how your salon website plays a vital role in converting online visitors into new clients. Phil shares real-world data and insights from hundreds of salons that will help you see where your new clients are really coming from, and spoiler alert, it’s probably not from where you think. Whether you're already getting traffic or want to boost your Google game, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.IN THIS EPISODE:[00:00] Intro + What’s Coming UpIntroducing the topic, and previewing the upcoming marketing course.[01:31] The 5 Ways Clients Find Your SalonBreaking down the key sources of new clients and why Google is more important than you think.[04:00] Phil Evans on Google Search & ProfilesPhil explains the difference between Google Search and Google Profile, and why both are crucial for your salon’s visibility.[15:21] How to Boost Your Google RankingsA deep dive into SEO, Google Rank, and how to dominate search results with the right keywords and content.[34:22] Your Website’s Job: ConversionWhy your salon website needs to do more than look good, and how to turn clicks into clients.[44:00] Google Reviews, Ads, and AnalyticsGetting and managing reviews, understanding when ads are worth it, and what metrics to track.Want MORE to help you GROW?📚 Check out our Bestselling GROW Books https://growmysalonbusiness.com/books/🆘 Management overwhelm!? Download our free checklist! This checklist will help you get clarity on where you're at https://growmysalonbusiness.com/management-checklist/RATINGS + REVIEWS🙏Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated! They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast.👉 Here's what you do:- On your phone, Click here  (Read steps below first)- Scroll down to 'Ratings & Reviews'- Tap on the empty purple stars and rate 5 stars- Click on ‘Write a Review’ I love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast! Thank you for your support! 🙏Until next time!AntonyRESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:CLICK HERE to Get your FREE Salon Search Engine Rank Report from Salon GuruEpisode 039 - The Importance of Website Design and Digital Marketing with Phil Evans  👉 FOLLOW US!Instagram | Facebook | Website👉 FOLLOW SALON GURU!Instagram | Website 

I know that the bulk of our listeners are not in the UK, but the changes happening to the UK hairdressing industry have been getting a lot of attention on social media, and as a result, I’ve had a lot of questions from hairdressers elsewhere.So, in this week's episode, I talk with Toby Dicker, co-founder of the Salon Employers Association, to discuss the challenges facing the UK salon industry.Following the recent march on Parliament by hairdressers protesting the unfair tax system, Toby provides a clear explanation of how VAT disproportionately impacts labour-intensive businesses like hair salons.We explore the uneven playing field between employee-based salon businesses and self-employed models, and how this disparity threatens the future of training, apprenticeships, and business growth in our industry. Toby shares insights from his work lobbying the government for change and the recent historic parliamentary debate on hairdressing. This conversation isn't just about numbers, it's about gaining respect for our profession and ensuring the continued creativity and excellence of British hairdressing.IN THIS EPISODE:[0:47] Introducing Toby Dicker and the Salon Employers Association[4:03] Simple overview of the VAT tax system in the UK[8:07] Explaining how the VAT system creates an uneven playing field[11:36] Impact on recruitment and apprenticeships[15:05] The disincentive to grow businesses due to the VAT threshold[18:15] Possible solutions to level the playing field[24:03] The concept of "disguised employment" explained[31:50] How businesses avoid crossing the VAT threshold[41:07] The historic parliamentary debate on hairdressing[47:24] How salon owners can get involved in the campaignWant MORE to help you GROW?📚 Check out our Bestselling GROW Books https://growmysalonbusiness.com/books/🆘  Management overwhelm!? Download our free checklist! This checklist will help you get clarity on where you're at https://growmysalonbusiness.com/management-checklist/RATINGS + REVIEWS🙏Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated! They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast.👉 Here's what you do:- On your phone, Click here  (Read steps below first)- Scroll down to 'Ratings & Reviews'- Tap on the empty purple stars and rate 5 stars- Click on ‘Write a Review’ I love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast! Thank you for your support! 🙏Until next time!AntonyRESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:👉 FOLLOW USInstagram | Facebook | Website👉 FOLLOW TOBY DICKER - THE CHAPELInstagram | Website👉 FOLLOW SALON EMPLOYERS ASSOCIATIONInstagram | Website👉 FOLLOW BRITISH HAIR CONSORTIUMInstagram | Website

You don't grow a business just by getting more clients. You grow by keeping the ones you’ve already got. But many salon owners are so focused on acquiring new clients that they completely miss that the real problem is poor client retention.In this episode, I share the numbers you need to be watching, the three simple shifts that make all the difference, and why the fastest path to growth is fixing what you’ve already got.If it feels like you’re working hard but never getting ahead, this episode is for you.IN THIS EPISODE:[0:00] Amanda adds $20K/month without spending more on marketing[1:38] How to make more money with what you already have[1:58] The client life cycle: a powerful mindset shift[3:27] The trend: salons focus on new clients instead of retention[7:29] The three-part system for making every client count[8:56] A simple action with dramatic results[9:20] Case studies: Lucas and Clive boost revenue with rebooking[11:02] This masterclass is for owners ready to build a high-performing team. FREE Masterclass Creating the Super Stylist: The Key to Boosting Productivity and Profits in Your Salon.’ Save your seat here Want MORE to help you GROW?📚 Check out our Bestselling GROW Books https://growmysalonbusiness.com/books/🆘 Management overwhelm!? Download our free checklist! This checklist will help you get clarity on where you're at https://growmysalonbusiness.com/management-checklist/RATINGS + REVIEWS🙏Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated! They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast.👉 Here's what you do:- On your phone, Click here  (Read steps below first)- Scroll down to 'Ratings & Reviews'- Tap on the empty purple stars and rate 5 stars- Click on ‘Write a Review’ I love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast! Thank you for your support! 🙏Until next time!AntonyRESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:If you're serious about growing your salon, this is where to start.👇FREE Masterclass Creating the Super Stylist: The Key to Boosting Productivity and Profits in Your Salon.’ Save your seat here  👉 FOLLOW US!Instagram | Facebook | Website

Some people love data! But let's be honest and say that for most hairdressers, studying the numbers in their business is not their favourite pastime.  My Guest today is a returning Guest, Tom Bentley-Taylor, who, amongst other things, originally got the Salon Software brand Short Cuts established in the UK and is currently Managing Director at Vish in the UK. Tom is unashamedly a numbers guy. He loves data, but more importantly, he loves what data tells you about what's working and what isn’t working in the business.In today’s podcast, we will discuss:The importance of using data in businessWhat is the most important data to track in the salon business?How data creates clarity for business owners and fairness for their team. And lots more!IN THIS EPISODE:[1:30] Welcoming Tom Bentley-Taylor and his background in salon software[3:05] The evolution from Shortcuts to Vish and why colour management matters[6:55] Are salons undercharging for colour? The problem with guesswork[8:40] How technology reveals the true cost of delivering services[11:10] Why data creates clarity for owners and fairness for teams[13:15] Empowering vs restricting: how stylists respond to numbers[18:06] Mistakes owners make when introducing change[22:45] Pricing, margin, and why protecting profit isn’t optional[25:20] “Creative freedom” vs business responsibility[28:10] The difference data makes to accountability[32:40] How Vish works with existing systems[34:02] The data that helps drive decision-making[36:40] The mindset of high-performing salon owners[38:55] Final advice from Tom: stop guessing and start trackingWant MORE to help you GROW?📚 Check out our Bestselling GROW Books https://growmysalonbusiness.com/books/🆘  Management overwhelm!? Download our free checklist! This checklist will help you get clarity on where you're at https://growmysalonbusiness.com/management-checklist/RATINGS + REVIEWS🙏Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated! They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast.👉 Here's what you do:- On your phone, Click here  (Read steps below first)- Scroll down to 'Ratings & Reviews'- Tap on the empty purple stars and rate 5 stars- Click on ‘Write a Review’ I love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast! Thank you for your support! 🙏Until next time!Antony 👉 FOLLOW US!Instagram | Facebook | Website👉 FOLLOW TOM BENTLEY TAYLOR!Instagram | Website

Over the years, I’ve seen many salon businesses, and inevitably, some stand out more than others.Some of them stand out because of the decor, others for the culture, some for their size and some for their success as a business.My guest today is Meagan McCormack, President of Visible Changes salon group in Houston, Texas, which is without doubt an amazing business. Meagan offers incredible insights on leadership, creating a positive culture, and the importance of authentic connection in today's salon environment. Whether you're running a large salon group or a small independent salon, Meagan's wisdom about adapting to change while staying true to your values will inspire you. In today’s podcast, we discuss:●     How a salon group the size of Visible Changes has continued to evolve as a business.●     How they have adapted to suit the changing needs of today's workforce●     Why they are expanding more into the product side of the industry  And lots more!  IN THIS EPISODE:  [01:03] Setting up today’s conversation with Meagan McCormack[02:24] Visible Changes: What's changed since 2019[04:31] COVID’s impact and consolidating salon locations[07:02] Meagan’s leadership transition and new role[11:45] Creating a people-first, compassionate management approach[17:12] The structure of the Visible Changes management team[18:35] Challenges of being a young woman leading a large company[23:00] The importance of authenticity and vulnerability in leadership[26:00] Launching a new focus on product development[31:30] Finding confidence and fighting imposter syndrome[38:15] Big goals: Aiming for a $100 million business[42:14] Celebrating top performers and incredible sales achievements[45:12] The role of retail sales in stylist success[46:29] Navigating the challenges of booth rental and Gen Z expectations[49:48] How mentorship is key to building the next generation of salon professionals[52:00] Final thoughts on leadership, evolution, and resilience  Want MORE to help you GROW? 📚 Check out our Bestselling GROW Books https://growmysalonbusiness.com/books/🆘 Management overwhelm!? Download our free checklist! This checklist will help you get clarity on where you're at https://growmysalonbusiness.com/management-checklist/  RATINGS + REVIEWS 🙏Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated! They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast.👉 Here's what you do:- On your phone,Click here  (Read steps below first)- Scroll down to 'Ratings & Reviews'- Tap on the empty purple stars and rate 5 stars- Click on ‘Write a Review’ I love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast! Thank you for your support! 🙏Until next time! Antony RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: Salon Management Course  👉 FOLLOW US!Instagram | Facebook | Website 👉 FOLLOW MEAGAN McCORMACK!Instagram | Website

This week, I dive into what makes a truly effective salon manager in today's rapidly changing business landscape. I've titled it "The 9 Traits of a Modern Salon Manager", and I've consciously used the word 'Modern' because, like everything else in life and business, what worked yesterday may not work so well today.I explore the nine essential traits that modern salon leaders need to cultivate to build successful teams, create thriving businesses, and adapt to the evolving demands of our industry. While certain principles remain timeless, other elements of management and leadership become more or less important over time.Whether you're a salon owner looking to strengthen your leadership skills or a stylist with ambitions of salon management, this episode offers practical insights to help you develop your management approach. And, If you're serious about elevating your management skills, be sure to join me on my FREE Masterclass: The 4 Essential Lessons in Salon Management - Save your seat here  IN THIS EPISODE: [2:00] The importance of your role as a manager and leader [2:52] Why the "hands-off" management approach often fails [4:55] Trait 1: Having a clear vision for the future [5:42] Trait 2: Understanding that leadership is about developing people [6:23] Trait 3: Building relationships and showing empathy [7:07] Trait 4: Offering flexibility in the workplace [8:23] Trait 5: Driving productivity through goal-setting and accountability [9:35] Trait 6: Embracing technology in salon management [10:01] Trait 7: Creating and protecting your salon's culture [10:51] Trait 8: Prioritising effective communication [11:36] Trait 9: Embracing and adapting to change [11:57] Final thoughts on continuous learning as a manager   Want MORE to help you GROW? 📚 Check out our Bestselling GROW Books https://growmysalonbusiness.com/books/🆘 Management overwhelm!? Download our free checklist! This checklist will help you get clarity on where you're at https://growmysalonbusiness.com/management-checklist/  RATINGS + REVIEWS 🙏Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated! They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast.👉 Here's what you do:- On your phone,Click here  (Read steps below first)- Scroll down to 'Ratings & Reviews'- Tap on the empty purple stars and rate 5 stars- Click on ‘Write a Review’ I love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast! Thank you for your support! 🙏Until next time! Antony  RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: FREE Masterclass: 4 Essential Lessons in Salon Management - Click here to save your seat   👉 FOLLOW US!Instagram | Facebook | Website