Qnity Lightbulb Moments

Lightbulb Moments | Featuring Crystal Anderson

In this episode of Lightbulb Moments, Tom Kuhn sits down with Crystal Anderson of Babe Hair Extensions and Beauty Industry Group to explore the rapid growth of the hair extension category and the opportunities it is creating for salons, stylists, and cosmetology schools. Crystal shares how extensions have evolved from a luxury service into a mainstream solution for fullness, confidence, and recurring salon revenue. The conversation dives into the rise of express extension services, the importance of education in building stylist confidence, and how salons can use extensions to increase profitability and client retention. Crystal also discusses the growing role cosmetology schools are playing in preparing future professionals for modern salon services and shares insights on where the industry is headed next. From business growth to beauty education, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways for salon owners, educators, and stylists alike.

Lightbulb Moments | Featuring Sudheer Koneru

In this episode of Lightbulb Moments, Tom Kuhn talks with Sudheer Koneru, CEO of Zenoti, about key insights from the 2026 Beauty & Wellness Benchmark Report. They break down flat industry growth, declining new guest traffic, and why “calendar inflation” is hurting bookings. The conversation also explores how top performers are driving results through better utilization, memberships, and online booking—not just more marketing. Plus, a look at how AI is transforming salon operations, from scheduling to smarter decision-making.

Lightbulb Moments | Featuring: Ameet Kallarackal

In this episode of Lightbulb Moments, Tom Kuhn sits down with Ameet Kallarackal co-founder and CEO of Glammatic, to explore how the salon industry is evolving and what it takes to stay competitive. Ameet shares insights from working with hundreds of premium salons, breaking down how search behavior is shifting and what that means for attracting new clients. From changes in web traffic to the growing challenge of getting guests to return for a second visit, this conversation highlights the trends shaping growth right now. They also discuss why your website remains the “mothership” for new client acquisition and simple ways salons can adapt in a rapidly changing digital landscape. The episode closes with a personal reflection from Ameet on growth and gratitude, proving that some of the most impactful lightbulb moments happen beyond business.

Lightbulb Moments | Featuring Ronan Perceval

This episode of Lightbulb Moments takes a practical look at how AI is showing up inside the salon business, beyond the hype.Host Tom Kuhn sits down with Ronan Perceval, founder and CEO of Phorest Software, for a real-world conversation on technology, growth, and the future of work in the beauty industry.They break down three powerful AI tools transforming salon operations:Front Desk AI to reduce friction and improve client communicationCheat Sheet to instantly prepare stylists with client insightsReporting AI to turn data into clear, actionable answersBeyond the tools, the conversation explores how AI fits alongside people and systems—and why human connection remains at the core of great salons. They also unpack the real story behind tech layoffs and what AI actually means for salon teams.Plus, Tom connects it all to Qnity’s upcoming 17% Growth Challenge, showing how these tools can drive real results in revenue and performance

Lightbulb Moments | Featuring Tom Kuhn

In this special mini-episode, Tom Kuhn takes a moment to connect with the audience live from Austin, Texas, and share updates on some exciting happenings in the beauty and salon industry. While our guest Micah Nickens is temporarily unavailable due to jury duty, Tom gives listeners a sneak peek of the incredible story to come—a New Orleans barber whose life was forever changed by a serious brain injury, inspiring resilience, mentorship, and personal growth.In addition to previewing Micah’s story, Tom covers:Updates on The FiLL Conference (May 18–20) and this year’s theme “AND”: combining people + profit, tech + touch, head + heart.Details about the 17% National Growth Challenge, helping service providers increase sales and elevate their business strategies. Early insights from the latest P&L study, highlighting trends in profit, labor costs, and top performers’ strategies. Recommendations for industry-focused content, including Wynn Claybaugh’s episode with Mike Rowe on Hairdressers Rule the World, showcasing the value and opportunities in cosmetology and trades.