The Hair Hustle Podcast

Episode 85: REPLAY - Leading YOU Even When You Don't Think You are a Leader with Heather Spencer

Contact Heather Pod: helloheatherpod@gmail.com Links from Ads: Know your numbers Worksheet [www.heatherpodlesney.com/knowyournumbers] In Salon Class or One on One Coaching HERE [www.heatherpodlesney.com/contact] Discover practical insights on leadership, balancing a thriving career with family, and personal development from Heather Spencer, a seasoned salon owner and industry leader. Whether you're behind the chair or managing your own salon, these tips will help you lead intentionally and create a meaningful, balanced life. Main Topics: * The importance of leading yourself first as a foundation for leadership * Building boundaries and managing energy for sustainable success * Balancing family, business, and personal growth through clear non-negotiables * The power of daily habits, mindset, and self-care * Developing leadership through reflection, goals, and a personal leadership statement * Strategies for overcoming challenges and embracing failures as growth opportunities Key Insights: * Leadership begins with self-awareness and self-leadership, not just managing others. * Daily habits such as proper rest, movement, and mindset shape how you show up for clients and team. * Setting clear boundaries protects your energy and promotes mental health and resilience. * Your mindset influences your client interactions and overall success—what you permit you promote. * Reevaluate and prioritize your non-negotiables to align your actions with your goals. * Embrace challenges as opportunities for growth—failure is part of success. * The importance of financial health and intentional time management in personal and professional life. * Leadership is personal and adaptable; create a leadership statement that reflects your values. Timestamps:00:00 - Introduction to Heather Spencer and her industry journey 02:00 - Why leadership is the cornerstone of salon success 03:30 - The significance of leading yourself before leading others 05:00 - The impact of continuous learning with John Maxwell's leadership training 07:00 - Practical daily habits for stylists to prevent burnout 09:30 - Mindset shifts: treating every client with love and respect 11:45 - The influence of words and how to promote positive client interactions 14:00 - The importance of product knowledge in service and sales 16:00 - The role of problem-solving in leadership and client care 19:00 - Recognizing and embracing challenges as opportunities for growth 22:00 - Balancing family life, business, and personal health 26:00 - The trade-offs in career and life priorities 28:00 - Insights from corporate experience and transitions to family-focused leadership 33:00 - Developing resilience and learning from setbacks 36:00 - Identifying and honoring your non-negotiables 40:00 - Practical strategies to set boundaries and protect energy 43:00 - The importance of rest and self-care in leadership 45:30 - The significance of strategic time management for growth 48:00 - Heather's leadership workbook – how to develop your leadership identity 51:00 - Advice to young and new salon owners 52:00 - Final motivational quote on embracing challenges and failures 53:00 - Wrap-up and connecting with Heather SpencerResources & Links: * Heather Spencer Leadership Workbook [https://www.instagram.com/heather.spencer.salonlead] (Available via link in Instagram bio) * Follow Heather on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/heather.spencer.salonlead] * John Maxwell Leadership Course [https://www.johnmaxwell.com/products/leadership-university] Connect with Heather Spencer: * Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/heather.spencer.salonlead] True leadership starts with self-awareness, setting boundaries, and embracing challenges. Your journey is unique—lead intentionally, balance wisely, and keep hustling! Mentioned in this episode: www.heatherpodlesney.com/contact www.heatherpodlesney.com/knowyournumbers www.heatherpodlesney.com/contact

Episode 84: Scaling a Salon to THREE Locations with Jonelle Fedock

Contact Heather: helloheatherpod@gmail.com Contact Jonelle: jonellefedock@gmail.com IG: @jonellefedock @southwesthairspa Ad Links: One on One Coaching HERE [https://www.heatherpodlesney.com/service] Know Your Numbers FREE Worksheet HERE [https://www.heatherpodlesney.com/knowyournumbers] Book the In Salon Class HERE [https://www.heatherpodlesney.com/contact] Summary In this inspiring interview, Jonelle Fedock shares her journey from corporate dispatcher to successful multi-location salon owner in Fort Wayne, Indiana. Discover her strategies for leadership development, team building, and balancing a busy family life with her entrepreneurial ventures. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Hair Hustle Podcast 02:42 Jonelle's Journey from 911 Dispatcher to Salon Owner 06:26 Transitioning from Corporate to Salon Ownership 09:46 The Decision to Expand: Opening a Second Location 12:00 Salon Structure and Employee Dynamics 15:32 Creating Growth Opportunities for Employees 20:04 Balancing Family Life and Business Ownership 20:42 Navigating Challenges in Business and Personal Life 23:07 The Importance of Quality Time with Family 25:26 Balancing Business and Personal Priorities 28:34 Understanding Market Demands in the Midwest 30:10 Creating Unique Guest Experiences 38:28 Building a Trustworthy Leadership Team 43:40 Navigating Leadership Roles in Salons 45:51 Building a Strong Salon Culture 51:31 Hiring Process and Team Structure 54:15 The Importance of Social Media in Hiring 55:43 Accountability and Team Empowerment 59:47 Personal Reflections and Industry Insights Keywords Salon ownership, leadership, team building, multi-location salons, industry growth, Midwest salons, salon success stories, business strategies, work-life balance, industry inspiration Mentioned in this episode: www.heatherpodlesney.com/knowyournumbers www.heatherpodlesney.com/contact www.heatherpodlesney.com/contact

Celebrating Moms in the Beauty Industry: Insights from Industry Moms & Salon Owners

RESOURCES Contact Heather: helloheatherpod@gmail.com www.heatherpodlesney.com/knowyournumbers www.heatherpodlesney.com/contact Follow Marsha: @styled_bymarsha Follow Katie: @katiedinsmoorehair Follow Jessica: @jessica.b_hairstylist SUMMARY In this episode, we celebrate Mother's Day by sharing heartfelt stories and practical insights from inspiring moms in the beauty industry. From balancing salon ownership and family life to overcoming industry challenges, these stories highlight resilience, flexibility, and the importance of community support. Whether you're a seasoned stylist or just starting out, learn how these industry moms carve out their paths with purpose and passion. MAIN TOPICS COVERED: * How motherhood influences career choices and work-life balance * Sacrifices and adjustments made to prioritize family and personal well-being * The power of community, support systems, and finding your village * Flexibility in the beauty industry to support family life * Leadership and legacy: what moms want their children to learn from their journeys KEY INSIGHTS: * Industry moms often shift their schedules to fit family needs, including working shorter days or fewer weekends * Building a support village—family, friends, coworkers—is crucial for managing the busy season of motherhood * Flexibility in schedules is one of the industry’s greatest benefits, allowing moms to be present for their children’s milestones * Running a salon or being behind the chair offers unique opportunities to show children the value of hard work, passion, and balance * Embracing seasons and giving oneself grace is key to surviving and thriving as a working mom in the beauty biz * Many moms want their children to see that success and family life can coexist, and desire to be positive examples of balance, resilience, and passion TIMESTAMPS: 00:00 - Introduction to the Mother's Day special and episode overview 01:22 - Marsha McDonald's journey: balancing motherhood and a salon career 03:05 - How motherhood transformed business practices and client management 05:44 - Handling planned C-sections and maternity leave seamlessly 07:23 - The importance of a supportive spouse and community support system 09:18 - Industry flexibility benefits for working moms 10:27 - Sacrifices: giving up Saturday hours and late nights 12:21 - Industry shifts: closing on Saturdays and adapting to client needs 15:31 - Building a village of support: family, coworkers, community 17:21 - Moments of being overwhelmed and persevering through seasons 19:02 - Reflection: Seasons of life and adjusting business hours 22:42 - Advice to women considering motherhood and career choices 26:47 - Jessica Baker's story: from industry newbie to owner and mom of three 33:12 - Balancing a salon, family, and personal passions 36:17 - How motherhood has made Jessica a better professional and leader 38:07 - The legacy: teaching children the value of hard work, balance, and passion 44:49 - Overcoming days of doubt: leaning on faith, community, and self-compassion 47:23 - Jessica's industry passion, mentorship, and life lessons 48:51 - Empowering children through example: success, balance, and support 55:42 - Navigating the decision to leave roles like Redken artist and coaching 58:01 - How kids grow and shape a better understanding of life and work 61:13 - The importance of support systems: family, church, community, and mentors 66:39 - Building resilience through challenging seasons: support, faith, and teamwork 69:00 - Upcoming salon open house and celebration plans 70:26 - Jessica’s message to her children: balance, support, and following dreams 73:34 - How to stay connected with Jessica and her salon: social media handles NOTE: The stories and insights shared in this episode serve as motivation, reassurance, and practical advice for any mom balancing career and family. Remember, you’re not alone in this journey, and your efforts are shaping a legacy of love, resilience, and passion. Mentioned in this episode: www.heatherpodlesney.com/contact www.heatherpodlesney.com/contact www.heatherpodlesney.com/knowyournumbers

Episode 82: The Realities of Building a Small-Town Hair Business and Navigating Social Media with Chelsea Downs

Contact Heather: helloheatherpod@gmail.com Contact Chelsea: FB - Chelsea Downs IG- @cookeville_hairgirl_ TT-@chelsea.tnhairstylist In this episode, Chelsea Downs, known as the Cookville Hair Girl, shares her journey of over 20 years in the cosmetology industry, highlighting the challenges and rewards of running a small-town salon and building a social media presence. Whether you're a new stylist or a seasoned pro, Chelsea's insights on affordability, branding, and industry realities are invaluable. KEY TOPICS * The importance of owning and operating a small-town salon while maintaining authenticity * What “affordable hairstylist” really means in different regions * Balancing profitability with accessibility for everyday clients * The impact of social media on small-town hairstylists and brand building * How to handle negative comments and online criticism * Strategies for growing social media followers and securing brand deals * The behind-the-scenes truths about salon income versus perceived glamorous lifestyles * Managing hours and double-booking as an independent stylist * The importance of community referrals and local reputation * Practical tips for content creation and engaging potential clients online TIMESTAMPS: 00:00 - Introducing Chelsea Downs: The Affordable Hairstylist from Cookville, TN 02:01 - Chelsea’s journey in the industry and her small-town roots 04:45 - Debunking stigma around work hours and salon profitability 07:11 - Defining “affordable” and balancing accessibility vs. profit 09:28 - Pricing strategies in different regions and client income realities 11:02 - Breaking down household income to understand client budgets 13:34 - The misconception of needing to charge high prices for success 15:16 - The value of understanding client income percentages when setting prices 17:20 - The reality of making six figures in the industry and work-life balance 20:45 - Managing salon hours, double-booking, and workload 22:57 - The challenges and advantages of working five days a week 27:35 - Small-town pros: referrals and community reputation 28:00 - The awkwardness of running into clients outside the salon 32:00 - Handling negative comments and criticisms on social media 37:42 - The pressure and advantages of building an online presence 44:17 - Creating engaging social media content and the importance of hooks 48:26 - Comparing drugstore products to professional brands honestly 51:20 - Growing social media followers and brand collaborations 54:12 - The importance of storytelling and authenticity on social platforms 58:36 - The glamorous image of hairstyling versus industry realities 59:41 - Behind-the-scenes challenges like damaged sinks and taxes 61:16 - Owning your space vs. renting: the true responsibility 62:35 - Chelsea’s tips for success and future plans Mentioned in this episode: www.heatherpodlesney.com/contact www.heatherpodlesney.com/knowyournumbers www.heatherpodlesney.com/contact

Episode 81: Shopping for a New Brand in Your Salon and Not Sure Where to Start? Surface Hair HAS YOU with Sean and Cassy!

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: helloheatherpod@gmail.com Cassy: claub@surfacehair.com Sean: scarlson@surfacehair.com 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