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  • In this episode of How To Cut It, we dive deep into Grid Studios, the innovative creative space designed specifically for professionals in the hair and beauty industry. Nestled in the vibrant Old Street, London, Grid Studios fills a crucial gap in the market by offering tailor-made amenities for hairstylists, barbers, and content creators.

    Join me as I sit down with Grid Studios' co-founder Danny Mendoza and his talented team members, Aoife and Annie, to uncover the inspiration behind this game-changing studio and explore how it's revolutionising the way hair professionals create and share their work.

    You'll learn about the unique features that set Grid Studios apart from traditional studios. From custom lighting setups that ensure consistent colour temperature, to versatile spaces perfect for mini set builds and live events, Grid Studios is meticulously designed to overcome common challenges such as inadequate lighting and unsuitable backdrops.

    We also highlight the versatility and community-building aspect of Grid Studios. And the Grid team share what makes the studio a hub for content-driven projects, including styling stations, diverse backdrops, and even a cozy coffee bar designed to enhance the overall experience. Annie, the social media manager, shares the vibrant energy that comes from collaborating with various professionals and the excellent feedback from first-time users.

    Danny also breaks down the flexible membership options that make Grid Studios accessible to creators with different budgets. Whether you're looking to book a one-off session or become a regular member, Grid Studios is committed to supporting hairdressers and other creatives in elevating their content without the prohibitive costs typically associated with studio rentals.

    Don't miss this exciting conversation that offers a glimpse into how Grid Studios is fostering a creative community and paving the way for the future of content creation in the hair and beauty industry. It could be your next go-to destination for capturing beautiful content and advancing your creative journey!

  • Welcome to the first episode of our new series, Introducing with Dom Lehane, where I spotlight the industry's hottest new names, rising stars, and undiscovered hair artists. This week, we're excited to introduce Guy Kleinhaus, a big name in the making.

    In this episode I have the pleasure of exploring Guy's journey from Cape Town to London's vibrant hair scene. As the artistic director at Cobella Salon and an educator with Hair In Motion, Guy's story is a testament to stepping out of your comfort zone for career growth.

    We first learn how Guy first felt the urge to move to London after being inspired by the city's rich hairdressing history. Leaving a strong foundation in Cape Town, he embraced the chance to learn from industry leaders in London. Upon arrival, Guy hit the ground running, forming invaluable connections with Jordanna Cobella at Cobella Salon.

    We discuss the transformative impact of these relationships and how networking can reignite passion and drive creative breakthroughs. Guy shared milestone moments, from winning competitions like the Wella Destination event.

    We also delved into current trends and Guy's signature style—lived-in textures and organic looks. I highly recommend you check out his work on his Instagram under the handle @GuyDoesHair.

    Tune in to hear Guy's inspiring journey and his vision for the future of hairdressing. This episode is a must-listen for any hairdresser looking to make waves in the industry. Join us as Guy Kleinhaus shares wisdom and experiences that will ignite your passion and inspire your own journey in hairdressing.

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  • In today's episode, I'm joined by Ashley Gamble. We'll be discussing how he went from being a stylist to achieving salon success with his wife Stephanie—and what it took for them both to get there!

    For the past 12 years, Ashley and Stephanie have been the owners of Ashley & Gamble, an award-winning salon in Shifnal, Shropshire UK. They have worked together for over 20 years, and their name is well respected in UK hairdressing. They have won many awards—including the UK Colour Salon of the Year and UK Salon Hairdresser of the Year awards—and are also British and multiple international award winners.

    Ashley and Stephanie's journey as a married entrepreneurial team offers a unique perspective on balancing work and personal life to ensure long-term success. In our conversations, Ashley is to provide valuable advice to all you salon owners looking for new motivations, and for new stylists entering the industry, emphasising the benefits of specialising in a skill set that can lead to greater success.

    This podcast covers a wide range of topics, from the importance of investing in your salon and choosing the right location for your business to discussing effective pay structures that reflect performance and contribution.

    So get ready to hear Ashley’s firsthand experiences and actionable tips—this episode is filled with indispensable advice.

  • Welcome to a special episode of the How To Cut It podcast. Today we are marking the sad passing of an extraordinary figure in the world of hairdressing, Trevor Sorbie MBE.

    Trevor Sorbie MBE, who was born in Paisley, Scotland in 1949 and rose to become one of the most influential hairdressers of all time. With unparalleled creativity and kindness, Trevor left an indelible mark on our industry. From creating iconic styles like the wedge cut to establishing the charitable foundation, My New Hair, his work transformed hairdressing into both an art and a form of heartfelt care.

    In this episode, we’re revisiting an incredible conversation recorded back in August 2017—Trevor's first-ever podcast interview. Trevor shared with me his humble beginnings and his unwavering passion for the craft, which remained with him throughout his remarkable journey.

    Trevor was much more than a stylist; he was a visionary whose artistry continues to inspire us. He taught us to "be bold, be different, but always do everything in good taste." Today, we celebrate his remarkable contributions and honor his legacy. Thank you, Trevor, for everything.

    Trevor Sorbie MBE, 1949 - 2024.

    Enjoy this special episode.

  • In today's episode, I'm to bring you the inspiring journey of Craig Parkinson, a hairdresser who has carved out a successful career despite the ongoing challenge of a stammer.

    I first met Craig at an event I hosted in 2016. He was taking to the stage for the first time ever, presenting a look he had created. That's nothing special, you might say. But what made it memorable for me was that Craig had a stammer, and by presenting on stage he was facing his fear in front of an audience. I was full of admiration for him when I saw what he had accomplished on stage that night, and I wanted to catch up with Craig since that event. How's his career shaping whilst dealing with a stammer?

    In our conversation today Craig opens up about his personal experiences dealing with a stammer, from early hurdles in professional and social settings to the transformative moments that shaped his path. We'll take a closer look at Craig's unique strategies for managing his stammer, like the time he confronted his reflection in a shop full of mirrors, turning a challenging situation into a moment of self-growth.

    You'll get to discover the techniques he's developed to thrive under pressure and the confidence he's built to communicate effectively in this vibrant industry. Craig also candidly discusses the apprehension many feel about phone conversations and how he overcame this particular challenge.

    Beyond the stammer, Craig sheds light on his early foray into business, sharing insights on tackling the feeling of never having enough hours in the day and the treasure trove of lessons learned from working independently.

    This episode is not only about resilience and determination but also about embracing transparency and self-acceptance. Craig’s experiences serve as a beacon of hope for any of you facing personal challenges—urging you to be open, persevere through discomfort, and stay true to your passions. Tune in for an episode that's sure to inspire and illustrate how obstacles can indeed become opportunities.

  • Today in collaboration with Wella Professionals, I'm honoured to welcome to the podcast Charlie Taylor, three-time Scottish Hairdresser of the Year and British Hairdressing Hall of Fame icon. From her formative years with Trevor Sorbie to co-running renowned salons in Perth and Dundee with her husband Alastair, Charlie has consistently set the bar for hairdressing excellence, making her mark both nationally and internationally.

    Today, Charlie  introduces us to Careologist by Wella Professionals, a program dear to Charlie's heart, aimed at elevating hairdressers’ grasp on hair and scalp care. This ties beautifully into our focus on Menopause, Hair, and Scalp Health, as part of recognising World Menopause Awareness Month. Charlie passionately shares her insights on addressing menopausal hair issues and the significance of understanding hair health during menopause.

    Charlie also shares how System Professional's range of products helps assist stylists and clients alike during this transformative phase.

    Before we get to all of this, I was keen to open up our conversation by learning about Charlie's voyage through the dynamics of hairdressing. She does this beautifully by emphasising with me the importance of solid foundational training and the early influences that shaped her.

    Charlie’s competitive spirit and ambition, combined with her strategies for marrying creativity with business acumen in the salons she has built, shines through.

    But most of all, this episode today is about to broaden your horizon on client hair and scalp care—especially how menopause affects the hair with Charlie sharing a very clear message: "We should care deeply about the hair and scalp health of those we serve.".

    So get ready for a conversation with Charlie Taylor, who will share her key tips and wonderful advice.

  • In this episode, I have the privilege of chatting with Vivienne Blake—a name maybe not familiar to you but someone who came to my attention as a member of our How To Cut It Platform Community. Vivienne has not only carved a unique path in our industry as the owner of her boutique salon and an independent educator, but also launched her innovative product—See Me Aprons—all while balancing these roles.

    Vivienne shares a journey that began with dreams of high-fashion work, but life had other plans. A chance opportunity led her to Vidal Sassoon salon, where she honed her skills and laid the groundwork for her future endeavours.

    Vivienne is a brilliant example of how a career in hairdressing can be both transformative and pivotal—something I'm always thrilled to champion. Her journey showcases the incredible flexibility this industry offers. From working with a global hair brand, she navigated the profound challenge of returning home to care for her father. This led her to ingeniously convert a bathroom into a makeshift salon. Following this, she established a charming boutique salon, shared her passion for haircutting as an independent educator, and then launching her own product line, See Me Aprons. Truly inspiring!

    Vivienne's story could help you take the next step in your own journey, whether that's launching a product line or creating a tool for the industry. But it isn't easy—and Vivienne will share some of her obstacles with us. But if you dig deep, it could pave the way for opportunities—something that Vivienne is now experiencing as her see Me Aprons are being sold in leading hairdressing wholesalers.

    This is precisely what I adore about our industry: with a spark of an idea, boundless energy, passion, and staying power, you can achieve anything. Who ever said hairdressing is a stagnant career? Absolutely not!

    I love bringing inspiring members of our Platform Community, like Vivienne, onto the podcast. Her entrepreneurial journey and her resilience and adaptability serve as a testament to what can be achieved while working behind the chair and running a salon.

    Be inspired and enjoy!

  • In this week's episode, I'm sitting down with Sean Hanna—the visionary behind the leading salon group, Sean Hanna Salon Group. Sean is here to share with us his incredible story, from opening his first salon to building a successful salon empire. We delve into his journey, exploring the challenges he overcame and the pivotal moments that fuelled the growth of his business.

    We are to get a treasure trove of entrepreneurial wisdom from Sean, emphasising the importance of blending creativity with financial acumen, managing risks, and evaluating business opportunities. He also discusses his transition from being a hands-on hairdresser to a strategic business owner, providing invaluable insights for those looking to make a similar shift.

    One of the key highlights of this episode is Sean's approach to taking calculated risks. He explains how understanding and managing risks can significantly impact the success of your business, sharing practical advice on navigating uncertainties and making informed decisions.

    We also explore the evolving landscape of the hairdressing industry, and Sean shares his perspective on the new business models for the hair industry. Additionally, Sean stresses the need for a clear exit strategy, offering tips on planning for retirement and achieving long-term financial freedom.

    This episode is packed with practical advice and inspiration for current salon owners and aspiring entrepreneurs alike. Tune in to gain actionable insights and elevate your salon business know-how with Sean Hanna!

    Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review.

  • Im thrilled to welcome back Wendy Tarplee-Morris, the co-founder, and Phil Brace, the CEO, of the Little Princess Trust, a charity that holds a special place in all our hearts. Wendy and Phil are two amazing people who have drive, compassion, and leadership.

    Since its inception by Wendy 20 years ago, the Little Princess Trust has provided over thousands of free, real-hair wigs to children and young people facing the unimaginable challenge of hair loss due to cancer treatment and other conditions. But their mission extends beyond the wigs; they also fund vital research into childhood cancers.

    Our conversation today ranges from the upcoming 20th anniversary of the Little Princess Trust to the significant role of the hair industry in supporting their work, the process of creating these lifelines from donations, and how every snip and trim could contribute to something powerful.

    Back in 2022, Wendy and Phil shared insights into the Little Princess Trust partnership with Great Lengths on the How To Cut It podcast, and today they're back to dive deeper into what makes the Little Princess Trust truly unique.

    Now, more than ever, let's get behind the Little Princess Trust. The 20th year for the Little Princess Trust is a milestone that marks great achievements and sets the stage for future aspirations. As hairdressers, we can create smiles and provide comfort by partnering with the Little Princess Trust. Let's continue to support, donate, and raise awareness for this incredible cause.

    Tune in to hear how you can make a difference to the wonderful work that the Little Princess Trust is doing.

  • In this motivational episode of the How To Cut It podcast, we welcome back Alan Austin-Smith, the influential figure behind The Fantastic Hairdresser . Alan's teachings and coaching have transformed countless salon businesses and hairdressing careers worldwide. Known for his dynamic approach to merging passion with profitability, Alan brings a treasure trove of insights and actionable strategies that promise to illuminate the path for salon owners and hairdressers toward not just surviving but thriving in their endeavours.

    Throughout this conversation, Alan unravels the concept of the 'Profit Elephant', a metaphor embodying the often-overlooked opportunities for profitability within the salon environment. This concept is a beacon for salon owners navigating the complexities of the current market, ensuring they don't just survive but thrive by addressing the 'elephant' in the room – understanding and implementing practical profitability strategies without compromising their creative integrity. "The biggest wins often come from addressing what we're most hesitant to confront," Alan insightfully notes, encouraging a proactive approach to financial health and sustainability in salons.

    Additionally, the episode covers the revolutionary 'Pub and Office Mindset', a fresh perspective on cultivating a vibrant salon culture that balances professionalism with the warmth and camaraderie of a local pub.

    You'll come away from this episode equipped with actionable strategies and a renewed mindset towards leadership, culture, and profitability, directly addressing the unique challenges facing our industry. Alan’s quotes, "Profitability starts with the heart," and "It’s about leading with purpose," encapsulate the essence of balancing passion with profitability. This conversation promises to ignite all of you with a vision and tools for success in today’s ever-evolving hairdressing landscape.

  • In this week's episode, I'm inviting the expertise of Sonia Magnier — a transformative holistic wellbeing coach for salon professionals. This conversation is crucial for anyone in the hair industry seeking to reprioritise their own wellbeing without sacrificing their passion for their work.

    Sonia Magnier, through her journey from salon ownership to coaching, divulges the critical need for energy management and cultivating a culture that actively supports wellbeing. She articulately lays out the consequences of overcommitment, a familiar adversary in our trade. "One of my biggest challenges throughout the years has been overcommitting," she shares, highlighting a struggle many of us face in silence.

    Training her focus on proactive self-care, Sonia discusses the profound impact of starting the day right. She advocates for building daily habits that propel us forward, recommending inspiring reads like 'The Miracle Morning' and 'Atomic Habits'. These resources pave the path for lasting, impactful change.

    Sonia implores the significance of setting boundaries—both personally and professionally. "You could, why would you though? What's the why?" she questions, prompting you  to dig into the deeper motivations behind your choices. Her philosophy extends to the digital realm, offering sage advice on managing social media's encroachment on our downtime.

    Expect to leave this episode with actionable insights and a renewed perspective on the intersection of hairdressing and wellbeing.

    For salon owners and hairdressers who understand the necessity of wellbeing, Sonia's expertise isn't just beneficial—it's imperative.  I firmly believe in Sonia's message: "I want to shout it from the rooftops, the importance of this." Let's amplify it together.

  • August is National Hair Loss Awareness Month, so for this episode we dive deep with Mark Blake — a globally recognised Harley Street trichologist advising celebrities, media & everyday people in the intricate world of hair loss and scalp care.In collaboration with Wella Professionals UKI and Nioxin, Mark will take us on an engaging conversation about differential diagnosis—how to pinpoint the root causes of hair thinning and loss. Intriguingly, he'll also discuss how the scent of our hair and scalp can unveil vital clues about scalp health.Mark is passionate that hairdressers should be knowledgeable about trichology, which will help you serve your clients more effectively. He also shares strategies for preventing hair loss with the aid of Nioxin.Moreover, Mark underscores the significance of scalp health, advocating for treating the scalp with as much care as any other body part, and discusses the indispensable role us hairdressers play in early detection of scalp cancer.Highlighting Nioxin's forthcoming innovative Anti Hair Loss Serum and Night Density Rescue products for scalp and hair care, Mark advocates for proactive discussions about hair loss between hairdressers and clients. He also shares about the 'The Fascinating World of Trichology' course offered by Wella Professionals, Mark says, "It's like a two-year course in a day."This episode isn't just a conversation; it's a step forward in the crusade against hair loss, illuminating the path for professionals and sufferers alike towards healthier hair and scalp. Join Mark with his unwavering dedication, inspiring a new wave of awareness and hope in the landscape of hair loss and scalp health. If the follicle opening is still open, there is hope. – Mark Blake

  • Today, we're jumping in the time machine to revisit an epic episode from April 2017 with the legendary Lee Stafford.

    In this throwback, we uncover Lee's transformation from humble beginnings in his mother's living room to becoming an icon in hairdressing. "I've always believed that to be the best, you’ve got to learn from the best," Lee shares, revealing his passion for mentorship and the art of honing your craft alongside the crème de la crème.

    Diving into Lee's passion for educational, we explored the Lee Stafford Education (LSE), his game-changing initiative to elevate hairdressing training in partnership with colleges. He breaks down his 'recipe' approach – a foolproof formula to ensure every student gets a standardised, top-notch education. "It's all about consistency and clarity," he asserts, sharing his journey from ideation to flawless execution in partnership with college principals.

    Recounting tales with industry icons and his stint on "Celebrity Scissorhands," Lee's anecdotes come peppered with wit and wisdom. "You've got to have a laugh, but remember the work you put in is what you get out," he says, reflecting on his grounded personality and the humour  that helped shape his colourful career.

    As we wrap up, Lee's ambition shines bright as he talked about the future. He dreams of stretching the LSE network and continuing to revolutionise hairdressing pedagogy. Emphasising "passion, commitment, and relentless pursuit of excellence," he leaves us armed with motivation and the powerful message that mentorship is the key to spectacular success.

    In this classic episode, Lee Stafford doesn't just share his story; he's here to ignite a fire in the heart of every aspiring hairdressers. Get ready to be inspired, folks – this is one for the books!

  • Are you a hairdresser or barber with a passion for pushing the boundaries of your craft? Have you ever wondered what it takes to not just participate but shine in the competitive world of competition hairdressing? Yes then this is a podcast episode you don’t want to miss.

    Join me as I sit down with Dody Constantinou, a formidable force in the competition hairdressing circuit. Dody’s journey isn’t just any story - it’s a legacy of passion, dedication, and remarkable achievements passed down through generations, starting from his grandfather, who was the first to clinch an international medal for Great Britain in 1963. With a family history rich in competitive success, Dody not only carries forward this tradition but also deeply understands the heart and soul of what makes a champion in this highly competitive world.

    Dody shares crucial nuggets of wisdom on navigating the competitive competition hairdressing landscape. "Competition hairdressing requires tunnel vision," he points out, highlighting the unparalleled focus needed to excel. He walks us through the challenges competitors face and meticulous judging criteria.

    In this conversation Dody doesn't shy away from addressing the elephant in the room: the declining popularity of championship competitions in British hairdressing. Our conversation doesn't stop at the competition floor. Dody opens up about the less glamorous sides, including the financial and logistical hurdles of finding a model, preparing the hair, and the challenge of drawing a crowd to these events. Yet, he remains hopeful, believing in the need for modernisation and a stronger emphasis on entertainment and visual appeal to attract younger talents and audiences alike.

    So, whether you're a seasoned competitor, considering your first foray, or just fascinated by this niche within our industry, this episode promises plenty of inspiration, learning, and a call to action for all of us to play a role in resurrecting and reshaping the future of hairdressing championships. Tune in, get those creative juices flowing, and perhaps, find yourself inspired to join the revolution Dody and many others are championing.

  • Join us for a long-awaited podcast with a true leading figurehead in British hairdressing, the brilliant Bruno Marc Giamattei.

    Renowned for his extensive industry accolades, mentoring  and leadership role in the family-founded Marc Antoni Group, Bruno is to share invaluable insights rooted in over three decades of industry experience. With a straightforward approach, Bruno says of himself,  "I'm a hairdresser's hairdresser and I'm real and there's no airs and graces."

    We are to explore with Bruno pivotal topics like the significance of honest communication within the industry, the pervasive impact of social media on business dynamics, and the profound influence of his father's legacy on the family business. The conversation takes a deeply personal turn as Bruno is to reveal how his brother's leukaemia diagnosis reshaped his outlook on business and the irreplaceable value of time.

    Bruno is big on mentorship and communal growth, so when he says, "The more I share, the stronger I become", we had to explore more on this!

    As we delve deeper into the conversation, Bruno shares more about Marc Antoni's expansion into China and why it's important. He also offers a glimpse into Chinese market dynamics by discussing how they differ from those in UK.  And he does not shy away from big topics, hairdressing industry challenges such as the dilution of quality training and the need for a multifaceted approach in hairdressing.

    Bruno Marc Giamattei's episode offers a rich tapestry of insights, from embracing challenges to celebrating achievements, all while staying grounded in the ethos of inspiring, mentorship and leadership.

  • Today we're to be joined by Janene Hawkins Bush. who unravels the blueprint for cultivating thriving salon businesses through team ownership, and seizing every opportunity—without fear.

    Leading four award-winning salons along the Suffolk coast, Janene Hawkins Bush is committed to moulding the next generation of stylists and salon leaders. She mentors her team members, helping many to develop the skills and knowledge they need in order to become salon owners themselves.

    Janene expresses in her own words, "Unless you grab those opportunities and strike well behind its heart, then I think you can miss out on things." Her passion is palpable, as is her commitment to mentorship, "All of our team have the opportunity to join the share scheme if they show initiative and the want to build a business."

    Her journey is not just about leadership; it's about adaptability and the lessons learned from running businesses in diverse landscapes like France and the UK. "I did work for a property development company down in the south of France... and we came back to England," Janene reflects, sharing the unique management challenges and the stark differences in salon representation in various economic climates.

    Janene advocates for transparency and accountability, components she believes are foundational for growth, trust, and respect within a business. With an eye on the future, she emphasises the necessity for industry reinvention, sustainable practices, and the cultivation of community-focused salons to remain relevant and successful.

    And make sure to stick around towards the end, because we go beyond the salon walls. Janene shares about MAD Education - an innovative initiative underscores her dedication to propelling the industry forward through affordable training and mentorship.  We learn all about this and how you can get involved in providing or receiving hair education for just £99 per year.

    Janene's insights today are your guide to transforming passion into action. Let's dive in!

  • Today we're joined by Francesca Rivetti, an award-winning hairstylist who hails from the UK but has made her mark in America.

    Francesca's journey is inspiring. From her early days immersed in hair design to pioneering roles with Graham Webb International and winning major awards like the NAHA Editorial award, Francesca has shaped a career marked by creativity, innovation, and educational advancement.

    In today's episode titled: Sharpen Your Skills: Francesca Rivetti's Blueprint for Hairdressing Mastery, Francesca starts by unveiling her personal thoughts on  the current state of hairdressing education in the US, critically underscoring the deficit in deep, skill-based training that leads to true mastery. Francesca passionately advocates for a reset in haircutting education, focusing on classic fundamentals as the backbone of confidence and skill. She discusses the three pillars of hair cutting mastery: one length, layering, and graduation, and how mastery in these areas cultivates a confident and capable hairstylist.

    Francesca shares, "Confidence breeds more confidence, like a seed that keeps growing and growing," emphasising the significance of discipline, passion, and the right mindset. She expresses concern over the superficial quick fixes that social media proposes and stands firm on her belief that "Education is an investment, not an expense."

    Our discussion also navigates the unique and immersive experience of the Reset Academy in Italy, showing how Francesca merges creativity, culture, and education to elevate hairstyling into an art form. Francesca’s insights are a treasure trove for anyone in the hairdressing industry, from the aspiring stylist to the seasoned professional looking to rediscover their passion and refine their skills.

    Francesca Rivetti is not just a stylist; she's a visionary in the hairdressing field. Her dedication to propelling hair education shines through every accolade and initiative, making her story and insights a must-listen for anyone looking to grow in the industry.

  • My absence from the podcasting waves over the last couple of weeks has been due to my bustling experience at the brand new HAIRCON event in Manchester's O2 Victoria Warehouse. In today's solo episode, I invite you to join me as I share an off-the-cuff episode, reflecting on the raw energy and my personal insights on taking the HTCI Platform stage to this groundbreaking day and night hair festival.

    In a mere three weeks, we faced head-on the task of orchestrating an platform stage inside HAIRCON that came to life with dynamic members showcases, industry discussions, fun competitions, and expert-led mastered sessions—all brimming with relentless energy from our community.

    The partnership with the Fellowship for British Hairdressing and The Assembly events brought forth an innovative event experience, that saw HAIRCON breathe new life into the hair industry. The venue's edgy ambiance fuelled  an air of creativity, as stylists from across the UK gathered for 3 days at this brand new day and nigh hair festival. Despite the occasional hiccup, the event was a big hit. I'll reveal more on all of this with you today.

    Beneath the warehouse's gritty atmosphere, an innovative spirit ignited as stylists from across the breadth of the UK convened for this inaugural  event that transformed day into night. Despite a few unforeseen twists, HAIRCON landed with a big impact, and I'm eager to share the details with you.

    The moment has come to immerse yourself in the HAIRCON experience—hit play and let's dive in!

  • Are you a hairstylist looking to elevate your career and get your salon on the map? Then today's episode of the How To Cut It podcast is exactly what you need to tune into. Put on your headphones, turn up the volume, and stay locked in as we dive deep into the world of industry awards with a special focus on local recognition and why it matters more than you might think.

    We're joined by none other than Kate Jeffery, the visionary founder of Salon Awards. Kate sheds light on how these awards aren't just about accolades; they're a transformational platform for smaller salons struggling to make their mark. "It's not just about winning; it's about improving your business practices and gaining the recognition you truly deserve," she tells us.

    This episode isn't just insightful—it's packed with the inspiration and information you need to turbocharge your hairdressing or barbering career.

    Kate breaks down the concept of the Salon Awards, from the various categories and the entry process at salonawards.co.uk to how these accolades are designed to be accessible to all. "We're here to celebrate your passion, your story, and your craft," she emphasizes.

    I get to the heart of the ethical side of awards, challenging Kate on criticisms that such events are merely money-making ventures. Her response? "We invest heavily in technology and administration to ensure a fair, transparent, and authentic experience."

    "The big takeaway?" Kate shares powerful stories of past winners whose careers have skyrocketed, thanks to leveraging their awards for marketing and community building.

    This week's episode is a must-listen for every hairstyling professional out there. From the power of local recognition to the nuts and bolts of creating a winning entry, we cover it all. Kate's commitment to genuine recognition and her dedication to supporting the hairdressing community is truly inspiring.

    Don't miss out on this invaluable conversation—especially with the upcoming deadlines for Salon Awards' nights in London and Manchester. This could be your year, so stay tuned all the way to the end to find out how to make the most of this opportunity

  • Today, it's just you and me - an open mic solo session where I dig deep into the enormous impact of taking time to reassess where you are in your life and career.

    Since kicking off in 2017, "How to Cut It" has grown into so much more than a podcast; it's become a community, a platform for education, and a spotlight for industry innovation. As we recently celebrated being named Industry Podcast of the Year at the Hairbrained Awards, I found myself reflecting on just how transformative this journey has been, not only for me but for many of you in our listening community.

    Throughout this episode, I'll share details about the origins of our podcast and the pivotal moments that have defined its evolution. The creation of the How to Cut It platform was a milestone, born from the desire to extend our reach beyond the audio episodes into a comprehensive resource for career development and inspiration.

    In a special announcement, I'm thrilled to invite our audience to join the upcoming HAIRCON - the new day and night hair festival coming the O2 Victoria Warehouse, Manchester from the 22nd-24th June. And yes, the How to Cut It 'Open Platform' stage will be there! It’s your chance to shine, to show what unique contributions you can make.

    Moreover, this episode is a personal reflection on the value of reassessment. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned professional, revisiting your goals and realigning your career trajectory can open doors to unexpected opportunities. This dialogue, unscripted and straight from the heart, aims to inspire you to embrace change, seek growth, and cherish those wins!

    I invite you to join the reassessment journey with me. Share your stories, connect with our vibrant community on social media, and continue to be a part of this incredible adventure.

    Thank you, our cherished listeners, guests, and supporters, for growing with "How to Cut It." Here's to moving forward, together.

    Hope you enjoy this open mic solo episode raw and uncut—let's get started!