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FREE Holiday Success Guide HERE Contact Heather: [email protected] 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

FREE Holiday Success Guide HERE Contact Heather: [email protected] 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

FREE Holiday Success Guide HERE Contact Heather: [email protected] 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

FREE Holiday Success Guide HERE Contact Heather: [email protected] 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

Follow Michael on IG @michaelcoleinspires FREE Holiday Success Guide HERE Contact Heather: [email protected] 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

FREE Holiday Success Guide HERE Contact Heather: [email protected] Contact Joe Sileo: [email protected] 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

Contact Heather: [email protected] 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

Contact Heather: [email protected] 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

Contact Heather: [email protected] 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

Contact Heather: [email protected] 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

Contact Heather: [email protected] 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

Contact Heather: [email protected] 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

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

Interested in a Class at your salon OR Coaching: CLICK HERE Grab the Know Your Numbers Worksheet: CLICK HERE Contact Heather: [email protected] Questions or work with Melissa Gross: 616-299-4869 and [email protected] 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

Contact Heather: [email protected] 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: [email protected] Cassy: [email protected] Sean: [email protected] 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