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I'm back with a little bonus episode of Nails & Yap to share a new project, that I'm really excited and passionate about. If you're a regular listener you'll already know how much I yap on about the value of community, making friends and creating connections in the nail industry. And if you're not a regular listener - hi, I'm Laura, and I yap on about the value of community, making friends and creating connections in the nail industry. In this episode I talk about why nail techs need real community, and why this industry can feel really lonely even though we're with people all day. We don't have colleagues, we often work in isolation, and so much of the confidence, motivation and decision making falls on us without people to bounce off. I wanted to film a bonus episode to introduce The Nail Social, a new Manchester based community that I'm starting with two nail tech friends - India & Sasha. It's all about having genuine connection through low pressure, IRL meet ups. We're starting with monthly coffee mornings, on a Sunday, to get to know other local techs and hopefully make some more mates. It's not one off networking, we want to create a proper community. I share how the idea came about, how having nail tech friends has COMPLETELY changed my experience of the job, and how we're building this in public. If you're a nail tech who's ever wished they had colleagues, or you're local to Manchester and want to get involved, you can follow the journey over on Instagram at @thenailsocialmcr (https://www.instagram.com/thenailsocialmcr/). We'll also be sharing lots of content for nail techs, so even if you can't make the meetups we'd love you to follow along and be part of the club from afar! Thank you so so much for listening, and I'll be back next week with a full episode all about mastering nail art, with Izzy from Orphic Nails & Education who is an absolute nail art whizz!

In this episode of Nails & Yap, I’m joined by Holly (A Splash of Polish) for a real, honest conversation about managing a beauty business while living with chronic illness. We talk about what it’s actually like to work with conditions like CFS and Fibromyalgia. Holly deals with unpredictable energy levels and painful flare-ups, all whilst navigating client expectations, scheduling, and the guilt that often comes with needing rest. Holly shares her personal journey, the misconceptions people have about working with chronic illness, and why understanding your own body is one of the most important skills you can develop as a business owner. We also get practical... breaking down energy management strategies, workspace adaptations, client communication tips, and a mini toolkit you can start using immediately. We dive into the mindset side too. Coping with burnout, respecting your limits without losing ambition, and learning to run a sustainable business that supports your health instead of fighting against it. Plus, we finish with a Nightmare from the Nail Desk agony aunt moment: how do you politely get a fidgety client to stay still without making things awkward? If you’re a nail tech, beauty professional, or self employed creative navigating chronic illness (or burnout), this episode is for you. ✨ Follow, like, and subscribe for more honest industry chats✨ Find Holly at @asplashofpolish✨ Stay tuned for the next episode of Nails & Yap - we're chatting all about nail art with Orphic Nails

Welcome to Nails & Yap, the podcast for nail techs, beauty professionals, and salon owners looking for honest conversations about business, creativity, and growth. In this episode, we’re diving into our 2026 goals, reflecting on what we’re keeping and leaving behind from 2025, and sharing the business and personal habits that will help us thrive in the year ahead. Join Laura, Sasha, and India as we talk about: Business growth strategies for nail techs and beauty professionals in 2026 Habits, systems, and boundaries to leave behind for a healthier work-life balance Small business goals, social media strategies, and diversifying income in the salon industry Personal goals for 2026, including self-care, downtime, and sustainable productivity Don’t forget to subscribe and turn on notifications for more honest, no holds barred conversations for nail techs and beauty professionals!

As 2025 comes to an end we’re taking a moment to reflect on the year we've had. In part one of this two part end of year podcast, I’m joined by Sasha and India to talk openly about what 2025 really looked like behind the scenes of our businesses. We’re sharing our biggest business highs, the moments we’re genuinely proud of, the lows that challenged us, and the lessons 2025 taught us about growth, boundaries, patience, and running a beauty business in the real world. This episode is for anyone who’s had a mixed year, questioned their progress, or wants reassurance that growth doesn’t always look linear. In this epsiode we cover: How we’d sum up 2025 as a wholeOur biggest business wins and proud momentsWhat didn’t go to plan and what we’d do differentlyLessons we’re taking forward into 2026This is part one of a two part end of year reflection. In part two, we’ll be looking ahead to 2026... what we’re leaving behind, the goals we’re setting, and how we want the year to feel. If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to follow, rate, and share the podcast, it really does help more than you know 🤍

It’s officially Christmas in the nail salon and we’re talking about everything that comes with it. In this episode of Nails & Yap I'm joined by Chiara to dive into what nail techs really think about the festive season behind the desk. From the things we love about December appointments to the things we absolutely don’t, nothing is off limits. Let's talk: Christmas in the nail salon: the good, the bad, and the chaotic Client gifting etiquette - should we buy clients gifts? Controversial Christmas nail art opinions 👀 Festive nail trends and whether they’re a yes or a no A Christmas quick-fire round Clients eating mince pies mid-appointment (and the crumbs that follow…) This episode is perfect for nail techs, beauty professionals, and anyone who loves a behind-the-scenes look at salon life during the busiest time of year. Expect honest opinions, relatable moments, and plenty of festive chaos. Whether you’re fully booked until New Year or just love salon stories, this one will feel very familiar.

In episode 12 I'm joined by India, known as IndzInc on social media, to chat about a bit of everything... from training to become a foot health practitioner, to hosting her events in Manchester. We also delve into the topic of staff as India has recently hired two team members. We discuss her decision to become an employer vs rent out desk space, as well as everything she'd do differently if she were to hire again. It was great to catch up with India again, and I can't wait for her event on 7th December... see you there! Use code NAILSANDYAP for 20% off your ticket here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/nail-artist-christmas-party-tickets-1685120092559aff=oddtdtcreator

It's fair to say that a lot of us in the beauty industry started off with a big dream... and not a lot of business knowledge for how best to achieve that dream. In Episode 11 of Nails & Yap, I'm joined by Sophia, experienced beautician and business mentor with over 10 years of experience. We discuss everything we wish we had known when we first started out, from pricing and boundaries to customer journeys and creating content. I genuinely believe this is one of the most valuable episodes of the podcast so far, and I'm so glad Sophia was able to join me and add such amazing insights to the topic. If you enjoyed this one, don't forget to give Nails & Yap a follow on social media, and please let us know if any of our points resonated with you (whether you're a seasoned pro or a beginner looking to avoid out beauty mistakes!)

Feeling isolated as a nail tech? In this episode, I chat with Olivia about the importance of community, mentorship, and ongoing education in the nail industry. We explore how supportive networks, peer groups, and guidance from experienced educators can help nail artists grow their skills, boost confidence, and run a thriving business. Olivia shares her perspective on the gaps in nail education, including business skills, client care, mindset, and aftercare… areas which are often missing from standard courses. We discuss practical ways to build a connected, supportive nail community that empowers techs instead of leaving them overwhelmed or burned out. Plus, our “Nightmare from the Nail Desk” segment tackles real world challenges, like handling clients who question pricing when you invest in upgrading your nail setup. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced nail tech, this episode is packed with tips for nail artists, educators, and beauty professionals to strengthen your network, improve your skills, and grow your nail career. 💅 Follow, subscribe, and join us as we explore how collaboration and mentorship can transform the nail industry.

I'm joined by Jennie Padbury, queen of real no holds barred content, to discuss what professionalism is as a nail tech. What do we consider professional, when do we filter ourselves, and which topics we think are a no go in the nail salon! From Mounjaro to conspiracy theories - we share our tips for navigating tricky conversations, and how to show up authentically and unapologetically whilst in a service industry. Products mentioned: Nail Order - Dura Gel Lite Nail Order Thermo Pro Gel Warmer

In this episode I'm joined by Jess to talk all about fitness and health as a nail tech, and how she fits it into her busy diary. From setting boundaries to eating peperamis, Jess is full of helpful advice for those of you looking to incorporate wellness into your life when you're in a job that doesn't always go hand in hand with work/life balance. We also solve a dilemma from someone who's client likes to wear sweaty gym gloves to her appointments... we say fire her! (as always...) Thank you for watching - products/services mentioned: Nail Order pricing calculator: https://nailorder.co.uk/hr/blogs/tips-and-tricks/how-to-use-the-pricing-calculator?srsltid=AfmBOoqvBLVa1Dsv-leM83jH6C2Gc4cl_nUZXwz-bVpZt51aVEIo84uL Scratch Mag Katie Barnes pricing spreadsheet: https://www.scratchmagazine.co.uk/feature/how-to-work-out-what-you-need-to-charge-for-nail-services-in-10-steps/ Harriet Westmoreland: https://www.instagram.com/harrietwestmoreland Jess' PT: https://www.instagram.com/daisy_p.t_/ Products used: Nail Order Builder in a Pot in shade Sublime Sissi Easy Squeezi Magpie Felix Powder Products Mentioned: Makartt Rhinestone Glue Sissi Clay HONA Cat Eye Top Coat Jess' Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jesso.nails Jess' new studio: https://www.instagram.com/portstudio.sk

When it comes to choosing nail products to use on your clients, is it better to stick with one brand or mix and match? In this episode I'm joined by Beauty By Sophie O to talk about the pros and cons of brand loyalty as a nail tech. We share our experience with different systems, how brand choice can impact your services, and what to consider before committing. Whether you're just starting out, thinking about switching things up, or you just want to hear our thoughts on the topic... this one's for you.

Beauty By Sasha joins me to discuss all things events... from pre event anxiety to fire breathers, road tripping, and dancing until 3am! After meeting Sasha at a Manchester nail tech networking event, we've since gone to two more together including the HONA After Christmas party, so who better to come onto the podcast and chat all about nail industry events?! Episode 6 is kindly sponsored by HONA, who are offering 10% discount for listeners with the code NAILSANDYAP. One time use, one per customer to be redeemed on their website.

After an (unplanned) hiatus whilst I got married - Nails and Yap is back!! In today's episode I'm chatting with Novo Geo, Nail Order's Manchester Xtensions educator, studio owner, and all round top gal. We're both yappers so strap in, it's a long one! Mentioned in the podcast: All Nails Welcome Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/allnailswelcome/ Find Georgia Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/novo_geo Studio Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/novo_studio.mcr Education Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/novo_education.mcr Nail Order Xtensions Course: https://nailorder.co.uk/products/testing-xtensions-in-person?srsltid=AfmBOoqwMvSgHkOyP9RKFGwvHnGRJbiTusE08b0cQSIoVxRwjhV5ae7j

Do you find yourself exhausted, losing your passion and resenting the job? It could be burnout... but it could also be a lack of boundaries. I'm joined by Studio Kiki to discuss the importance of boundaries, and the consequences not setting them has, while I give her a cute chrome mani 💅

I'm joined by Liv 4 Nails to talk all about our memorable clients throughout our nail tech careers - from the good and the bad to the brides, funerals, and our red flags. We also solve this weeks 'Nightmare From The Nail Desk'... which may or may not involve an illegal request!