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Why do so many talented barbers struggle when they become business owners? Recorded live at HairCon 2026, Anthony Laban is joined by Tom Chapman (Diligents) and Michael Damiano to discuss the leadership skills that separate successful barbershops from those that fail.They dive into building a strong team culture, earning respect as a leader instead of acting like a boss, managing self-employed barbers, handling staff who leave, growing through social media, hiring for personality over skill, and why communication is the most valuable tool any shop owner has. Whether you're opening your first shop or managing a growing team, this episode is packed with honest advice from owners who have built successful businesses. SUBSCRIBE TO THE NOBLE BARBERS CAREERS & ADVICE APP! 👇 Website: https://www.thenoblebarber.co.uk FOLLOW US 🐂 ✂️Linktree: https://linktr.ee/thenoblebarberpodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenoblebarberpodcastTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thenoblebarber Credits:Filmed & Edited by HAMLIN STUDIOS: https://www.instagram.com/hamlinstudios/?hl=en-gb THE NOBLE BARBER PODCAST  Hosted by industry professional and award-winning barber Anthony Laban. Joined weekly by industry professionals to talk about barbering, becoming and maintaining a barber shop, hiring, employment, money and cutting through the crap of the industry.

Are apprenticeships in barbering broken? Recorded live at HairCon 2026, Anthony Laban is joined by Aaron Dorn and Adam Sloan from the Men's Hairdressing Federation (MHFed) to discuss the future of barbering education.The panel explores why apprenticeships have declined, the financial support available to employers, the challenges facing salons and barbershops, online education, becoming a better educator, and what separates great apprentices from the rest. Whether you're a salon owner, barber, educator or someone thinking about joining the industry, this episode is packed with practical advice and honest discussion. SUBSCRIBE TO THE NOBLE BARBERS CAREERS & ADVICE APP! 👇 Website: https://www.thenoblebarber.co.uk FOLLOW US 🐂 ✂️Linktree: https://linktr.ee/thenoblebarberpodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenoblebarberpodcastTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thenoblebarber Credits:Filmed & Edited by HAMLIN STUDIOS: https://www.instagram.com/hamlinstudios/?hl=en-gb THE NOBLE BARBER PODCAST  Hosted by industry professional and award-winning barber Anthony Laban. Joined weekly by industry professionals to talk about barbering, becoming and maintaining a barber shop, hiring, employment, money and cutting through the crap of the industry.

SUBSCRIBE TO THE NOBLE BARBERS CAREERS & ADVICE APP! 👇 Website: https://www.thenoblebarber.co.uk 00:00 Intro02:21 Why Print?06:37 Creative Process13:33 Future Talent20:21 American Crew28:19 Retail Reality34:19 Education Matters40:21 Final Thoughts FOLLOW US 🐂 ✂️Linktree: https://linktr.ee/thenoblebarberpodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenoblebarberpodcastTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thenoblebarber Credits:Filmed & Edited by HAMLIN STUDIOS: https://www.instagram.com/hamlinstudios/?hl=en-gb THE NOBLE BARBER PODCAST  Hosted by industry professional and award-winning barber Anthony Laban. Joined weekly by industry professionals to talk about barbering, becoming and maintaining a barber shop, hiring, employment, money and cutting through the crap of the industry.

Do you need to own a salon to build a successful career in hairdressing? Recorded live at HairCon 2026, Anthony Laban is joined by Desmond Murray and Stacey Wright to discuss the many career paths available within the hair industry. From editorial work and education to photography, Fashion Week and global brand roles, they share why success isn't limited to owning a salon. The conversation explores creativity, mentorship, discipline, awards, imposter syndrome and why constantly learning is the key to building a long and fulfilling career. Whether you're an apprentice, barber, hairdresser or salon owner, this episode is packed with practical advice and inspiration for anyone looking to grow in the industry. Follow our guests:📲 Desmond Murray: @desmondmurray📲 Stacey Wright: @staceywright_ If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to like, subscribe and leave a review. It really helps us continue bringing conversations like this to The Noble Barber. SUBSCRIBE TO THE NOBLE BARBERS CAREERS & ADVICE APP! 👇 Website: https://www.thenoblebarber.co.uk FOLLOW US 🐂 ✂️Linktree: https://linktr.ee/thenoblebarberpodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenoblebarberpodcastTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thenoblebarber Credits:Filmed & Edited by HAMLIN STUDIOS: https://www.instagram.com/hamlinstudios/?hl=en-gb THE NOBLE BARBER PODCAST  Hosted by industry professional and award-winning barber Anthony Laban. Joined weekly by industry professionals to talk about barbering, becoming and maintaining a barber shop, hiring, employment, money and cutting through the crap of the industry.

What separates a successful barber from a successful business owner? Recorded live at HairCon 2026, Anthony Laban sits down with Joth Davies (Savills Barbers) and Charles Rose (Crate Collective) to discuss what it really takes to build a long-lasting barbering business. From growing teams and retaining staff to education, branding, academies and expanding beyond the chair, this episode is packed with practical advice for barbers looking to think bigger. Whether you're opening your first shop or planning your next move, this conversation offers honest insight into building a business that lasts. Follow our guests for more barbering and business insights: Joth Davies & Savills Barbers: https://www.instagram.com/savillsbarbers/ Charles Rose & Crate Collective: https://www.instagram.com/cratecollective/ If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to like, subscribe and leave a review. It really helps us continue bringing conversations like this to The Noble Barber. SUBSCRIBE TO THE NOBLE BARBERS CAREERS & ADVICE APP! 👇 Website: https://www.thenoblebarber.co.uk FOLLOW US 🐂 ✂️Linktree: https://linktr.ee/thenoblebarberpodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenoblebarberpodcastTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thenoblebarber Credits:Filmed & Edited by HAMLIN STUDIOS: https://www.instagram.com/hamlinstudios/?hl=en-gb THE NOBLE BARBER PODCAST  Hosted by industry professional and award-winning barber Anthony Laban. Joined weekly by industry professionals to talk about barbering, becoming and maintaining a barber shop, hiring, employment, money and cutting through the crap of the industry.

In this special Haircon episode, we discuss, should barbers open a private studio, or are they making the move too early?Recorded live at HairCon Manchester, Anthony Laban sits down with Dan Gregory and Pete Cranfield to discuss the realities of studio life, building a loyal clientele, social media, pricing, no-shows, client retention and what it really takes to make a studio successful. From attracting customers and creating a premium experience to avoiding common mistakes and knowing when you're actually ready to go solo, this episode is packed with honest advice for barbers at every stage of their career.Whether you're considering opening a studio or looking to grow your existing business, this conversation offers practical insights from two of the industry's most respected names. SUBSCRIBE TO THE NOBLE BARBERS CAREERS & ADVICE APP! 👇 Website: https://www.thenoblebarber.co.uk FOLLOW US 🐂 ✂️Linktree: https://linktr.ee/thenoblebarberpodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenoblebarberpodcastTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thenoblebarber Credits:Filmed & Edited by HAMLIN STUDIOS: https://www.instagram.com/hamlinstudios/?hl=en-gb THE NOBLE BARBER PODCAST  Hosted by industry professional and award-winning barber Anthony Laban. Joined weekly by industry professionals to talk about barbering, becoming and maintaining a barber shop, hiring, employment, money and cutting through the crap of the industry.

Josh Lamonaca (MENSPIRE) shares his full journey from cutting hair at 15 to building one of the most influential men’s hair brands in the world. In this episode, we dive into how he went from self-taught barbering in his grandmother’s garage to performing on global stages, creating a new standard for men’s hairdressing, and building a worldwide education platform. Josh opens up about ego, burnout, rejection, discipline, and the mindset shift that changed everything — from “showing” to truly “sharing.” This is a must-watch for barbers, creatives, and anyone building something from the ground up. SUBSCRIBE TO THE NOBLE BARBERS CAREERS & ADVICE APP! 👇 Website: https://www.thenoblebarber.co.uk FOLLOW US 🐂 ✂️Linktree: https://linktr.ee/thenoblebarberpodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenoblebarberpodcastTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thenoblebarber Credits:Filmed & Edited by HAMLIN STUDIOS: https://www.instagram.com/hamlinstudios/?hl=en-gb THE NOBLE BARBER PODCAST  Hosted by industry professional and award-winning barber Anthony Laban. Joined weekly by industry professionals to talk about barbering, becoming and maintaining a barber shop, hiring, employment, money and cutting through the crap of the industry.

This one’s different. Sam from MENSPIRE isn’t the loudest guy in the room…but he’s built one of the biggest barber brands in the world. From earning £500 a month and thinking he’d “made it”…to building a global business with shops across the world this episode breaks down what it actually takes. We talk about staying in your lane, building the right team, why most barbers get it wrong early on, and the reality of starting from nothing. If you’re a barber, creative, or building something of your own this one will hit.Subscribe for more real conversations from inside the industry. Sam Palmer is the co-founder of MENSPIRE, one of the most recognised men’s grooming brands in the world. From cutting hair in his parents’ front room to building a global business with locations across the UK, Dubai, New York and beyond. Sam has been at the core of scaling the brand from day one.Known for focusing on culture, team and long-term growth, Sam has played a key role in building MENSPIRE into more than just a barbershop but a global brand shaping the future of modern men’s grooming. Follow Sam here:Instagram: @sam_menspireMENSPIRE: @menspireacademy SUBSCRIBE TO THE NOBLE BARBERS CAREERS & ADVICE APP! 👇 Website: https://www.thenoblebarber.co.uk FOLLOW US 🐂 ✂️Linktree: https://linktr.ee/thenoblebarberpodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenoblebarberpodcastTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thenoblebarber Credits:Filmed & Edited by HAMLIN STUDIOS: https://www.instagram.com/hamlinstudios/?hl=en-gb THE NOBLE BARBER PODCAST  Hosted by industry professional and award-winning barber Anthony Laban. Joined weekly by industry professionals to talk about barbering, becoming and maintaining a barber shop, hiring, employment, money and cutting through the crap of the industry.

In this exclusive Deep Dive, Anthony Laban travels to the Wahl UK Headquarters to sit down with a true industry titan: Simon Shaw. Recently appointed as the Director of Education, Simon oversees training and artistic standards across 62 countries. With 26 years at the world’s biggest clipper corporation, Simon pulls back the curtain on the "Hard Graft" that people don't see - from the 20-week lead-up to global exhibitions to the ruthless precision required to select and retain a "Creme de la Creme" artistic team. This episode is a masterclass in professional mindset, business longevity and cultural leadership. Simon cuts through the social media hype to explain why "knowing how to fade" is just the entry point and why the real masters are those who never stop investing in their education.Simon challenges the ego of the modern stylist and provides a blueprint for those who actually want to scale their business and leave a legacy.Follow Simon! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/simonshaw_ss SUBSCRIBE TO THE NOBLE BARBERS CAREERS & ADVICE APP! 👇 Website: https://www.thenoblebarber.co.uk FOLLOW US 🐂 ✂️Linktree: https://linktr.ee/thenoblebarberpodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenoblebarberpodcastTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thenoblebarber Credits:Filmed & Edited by HAMLIN STUDIOS: https://www.instagram.com/hamlinstudios/?hl=en-gb THE NOBLE BARBER PODCAST  Hosted by industry professional and award-winning barber Anthony Laban. Joined weekly by industry professionals to talk about barbering, becoming and maintaining a barber shop, hiring, employment, money and cutting through the crap of the industry.

Description: In this second "Best of" Compilation, Anthony Laban brings together the most critical voices in the industry to tackle a subject that is keeping shop owners awake at night: The Education Crisis. The barbering landscape has shifted. We have seen a surge in 12-week fast-track courses and high-street saturation, but are we actually producing "shop-ready" barbers? This episode cuts through the crap to investigate the rising cost of training, the failure of traditional college models, and the "fire in the belly" required to actually make it in this craft.In this Compilation, we explore:The Death of the Old Way: Michael Kontos (LSB) and Anthony discuss why the 2-year apprenticeship is no longer viable for a 30-year-old career-changer and the rise of the "Private Academy" model.The Standards Gap: A deep dive into why "doing a great fade" doesn't make you a great barber. We discuss the loss of fundamental skills like scissor-over-comb and the dangerous lack of endpoint assessments in private training.The Mentorship Deficit: Why shop owners are struggling to find people who actually want to immerse themselves in the craft rather than just chasing a "lifestyle".The Belfast Hybrid Solution: Justine Higgins breaks down a revolutionary model where funded, full-time college training creates "real barbers" who are ready to make money from day one.The Hard Truth of Affordability: Why skyrocketing minimum wages and lack of government support are forcing even the most passionate owners to turn away apprentices.Questions raised in this episode:Is the 12-week NVQ enough to survive a high-street with 20+ competitors?Why is the government funding paperwork but not physical training?How can a self-employed shop model effectively bring through new talent?Episode Chapters00:00:00 | The Apprenticeship Crisis00:04:15 | The Standards Gap: Fades vs. Fundamental Skills00:08:45 | Regulation and the Private Course Trap00:11:45 | The Affordability Crisis for Shop Owners00:16:30 | Home-Grown Talent vs. Fast-Track NVQs00:20:15 | The Belfast Hybrid Solution00:26:00 | Training in a Self-Employed Model00:29:45 | The Future of Professional Investment Whether you are a student looking for the right path or a shop owner struggling to build a team, this episode is a roadmap for the future of barbering education.#TheNobleBarber #BarberEducation #Apprenticeships #BarberTraining #IndustryStandards #BarberBusiness #DeepDive #TheTrainingCrisis

In this Noble Barber Deep Dive, Anthony Laban travels to the stunning Grade II listed Wandsworth site of The Dapper Fox to sit down with its founder, Elsa Larkins. This isn't just a story about opening a barber shop; it’s a masterclass in resilience, vision, and the brutal reality of being a "custodian" of a heritage building while scaling an international brand. Elsa reveals the raw truth behind her start - opening her first shop with just £50 to her name after unexpectedly losing her job. We discuss the challenges of being a female business owner in a male-dominated industry, from facing skeptics who "laughed at her" to dealing with interviewees who didn't believe a woman could be in charge. We also cover the essential "un-glamorous" side of business that every shop owner needs to hear: the £1,000 licensing traps for giving away "free" alcohol, the obsession required to manage a Grade II listed fit-out and the complexities of opening a third location internationally. Whether you are an aspiring shop owner or a seasoned pro, Elsa’s journey from a one-chair setup to a multi-site lifestyle brand is the ultimate reality check for 2026.Follow The Dapper Fox!Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thedapperfoxbarbers SUBSCRIBE TO THE NOBLE BARBERS CAREERS & ADVICE APP! 👇 Website: https://www.thenoblebarber.co.uk FOLLOW US 🐂 ✂️Linktree: https://linktr.ee/thenoblebarberpodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenoblebarberpodcastTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thenoblebarber Credits:Filmed & Edited by HAMLIN STUDIOS: https://www.instagram.com/hamlinstudios/?hl=en-gb THE NOBLE BARBER PODCAST  Hosted by industry professional and award-winning barber Anthony Laban. Joined weekly by industry professionals to talk about barbering, becoming and maintaining a barber shop, hiring, employment, money and cutting through the crap of the industry.

In this first "Best of" Compilation, The Noble Barber Podcast brings together a powerhouse of insights from top industry leaders on Work Ethic, Hustle, and Growth for 2026. This episode cuts through the noise of social media to deliver a raw, honest exploration of the mindset, financial discipline and strategic restraint required to transition from a busy stylist to a successful brand owner…. Our goal with this curated special is to provide you with a masterclass in professional survival and scaling. We move past technical tutorials to focus on the high-level business mechanics that separate industry leaders from the rest. We explore the foundational work ethic needed to sustain a high-end clientele - where 5 AM starts and relentless consistency are the norm - and dive into the heavy financial realities of building premium spaces. This compilation features heavy-hitting wisdom from legendary figures including: Mark Maciver (Slider Cuts) on the relentless 5 AM grind and managing elite expectations. Tom Hoffman (Diligence) on the reality of a £100k shop fit and how to scale Kevin Luchmun on managing expansion like a "second baby" and avoiding the expansion-for-ego trap. Josh Lamonaca on the courage required to lead a global team of over 100 employees. Paul Stafford on why we fear professional pricing and the importance of valuing our skill. Jord Roberts (Barbers No. 1) on identifying management potential and the path from shop floor to brand director.Ian Harrold on recognizing the difference between a business move and an "ego play". What you will take away from this episode:The Blueprint for Growth: Learn why scaling a brand requires moving from a "lone wolf" mentality to building collaborative systems that live beyond the original owner. Risk vs. Ego: Discover how to manage expansion by mastering your first location and "sweating the assets" before doubling the stakes.The Profit Pivot: Insights into why we often value our time less than other professions and how to articulate your professional worth to a demanding clientele. Leadership and Delegation: Practical advice on identifying management potential early and delegating operational "headaches" to stay focused on your creative strengths. Whether you are looking to open your first chair or your tenth shop, this "Best of" special provides the strategic insight needed to grow your brand and your profits in today’s competitive climate. SUBSCRIBE TO THE NOBLE BARBERS CAREERS & ADVICE APP! 👇 Website: https://www.thenoblebarber.co.uk FOLLOW US 🐂 ✂️Linktree: https://linktr.ee/thenoblebarberpodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenoblebarberpodcastTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thenoblebarber Credits:Filmed & Edited by HAMLIN STUDIOS: https://www.instagram.com/hamlinstudios/?hl=en-gb THE NOBLE BARBER PODCAST  Hosted by industry professional and award-winning barber Anthony Laban. Joined weekly by industry professionals to talk about barbering, becoming and maintaining a barber shop, hiring, employment, money and cutting through the crap of the industry.

PROUDLY SPONSORED BY THE LONDON SCHOOL OF BARBERING! Use Our Exclusive  Code ‘noblebarber26’ for £250 off their 9 & 12 Week NVQ Level Courses 👇 Website: https://www.londonschoolofbarbering.com/ In Part 2 of our conversation at the London School of Barbering, Anthony Laban sits down with Michael Kontos and JJ Savani to discuss the untapped potential of the global barbering market. JJ Savani shares his remarkable journey of falling back in love with the craft after losing his sight and how he transitioned from a career in NHS management psychology into becoming a headline educator. We dive deep into the "status game" of the international market—where image and prestige drive pricing—and why LSB is now pioneering UK-based qualifications for a market of 1.4 billion people in India. Michael and JJ also break down the "Endgame" of social media, explaining why a high follower count is a vanity metric if you don't have the positioning to create conversion. Plus, Michael reveals why he would hire a technical scissor cutter over a "flawless fade" specialist every single time. Follow LSB! https://www.instagram.com/londonschoolofbarberingFollow JJ: https://www.instagram.com/jjsavani SUBSCRIBE TO THE NOBLE BARBERS CAREERS & ADVICE APP! 👇 Website: https://www.thenoblebarber.co.uk FOLLOW US 🐂 ✂️Linktree: https://linktr.ee/thenoblebarberpodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenoblebarberpodcastTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thenoblebarber Credits:Filmed & Edited by HAMLIN STUDIOS: https://www.instagram.com/hamlinstudios/?hl=en-gb THE NOBLE BARBER PODCAST  Hosted by industry professional and award-winning barber Anthony Laban. Joined weekly by industry professionals to talk about barbering, becoming and maintaining a barber shop, hiring, employment, money and cutting through the crap of the industry.

PROUDLY SPONSORED BY THE LONDON SCHOOL OF BARBERING! Use Our Exclusive  Code ‘noblebarber26’ for £250 off their 9 & 12 Week NVQ Level Courses 👇 Website: https://www.londonschoolofbarbering.com/ In Part 2 of our conversation with Kevin Luchmun & Roxanne Batt, we dive deep into the reality of scaling a brand while maintaining a "soul" Kevin reveals his "Avengers" philosophy to hiring - where every barber has a unique superpower - and explains why he actively encourages his staff to one day open their own shop… We get a unfiltered look at the "madness" of Kevin's global schedule, from 10-hour flights to 5 AM clients and why he believes the current college system is failing the next generation by focusing on scripts instead of life skills. Roxanne shares the "fire in the belly" required to step onto a stage like the Barber Bash and why she views the Hartford shop as her "baby" Whether you're a junior barber or a shop owner eyeing a second location, this episode is a masterclass in managing risk, avoiding ego-driven decisions and the power of networking! Follow Kevin! https://www.instagram.com/kevinluchmanFollow Roxanne! https://www.instagram.com/batt_hair FOLLOW US 🐂 ✂️Linktree: https://linktr.ee/thenoblebarberpodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenoblebarberpodcastTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thenoblebarber Credits:Filmed & Edited by HAMLIN STUDIOS: https://www.instagram.com/hamlinstudios/?hl=en-gb THE NOBLE BARBER PODCAST  Hosted by industry professional and award-winning barber Anthony Laban. Joined weekly by industry professionals to talk about barbering, becoming and maintaining a barber shop, hiring, employment, money and cutting through the crap of the industry.

PROUDLY SPONSORED BY THE LONDON SCHOOL OF BARBERING! Use Our Exclusive  Code ‘noblebarber26’ for £250 off their 9 & 12 Week NVQ Level Courses 👇 Website: https://www.londonschoolofbarbering.com/ Welcome back to The Noble Barber Podcast, Anthony Laban sits down with Michael Kontos, owner and founder of the London School of Barbering (LSB). With 15 years in the game, Michael has seen the industry evolve from the "short back and sides" era to a global fashion powerhouse. He addresses the initial "flak" he caught for his "Novice to Master" philosophy and explains why the traditional apprenticeship is "panting in the corner" as 30-year-olds look for a faster route into the craft. Michael pulls no punches on the current state of the industry, from the rise of "ego-boy" YouTubers to the "loyalty crisis" facing shop owners today. We discuss the expansion of LSB into India and Malaysia, the reality of sole ownership, and why a barber’s social skills are just as important as their fade. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a "home-taught" barber looking for structure, this conversation is an honest look at what it takes to survive and thrive in 2026. Follow LSB! https://www.instagram.com/londonschoolofbarbering FOLLOW US 🐂 ✂️Linktree: https://linktr.ee/thenoblebarberpodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenoblebarberpodcastTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thenoblebarber Credits:Filmed & Edited by HAMLIN STUDIOS: https://www.instagram.com/hamlinstudios/?hl=en-gb THE NOBLE BARBER PODCAST  Hosted by industry professional and award-winning barber Anthony Laban. Joined weekly by industry professionals to talk about barbering, becoming and maintaining a barber shop, hiring, employment, money and cutting through the crap of the industry.