Afleveringen
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In this episode of The Conscious Salon, weâre pulling back the curtain on a topic that continues to come up in our community and coaching sessions - hiring. More specifically, weâre diving into the mindset shifts salon owners need to embrace to attract the right people, hire with confidence and lead without losing themselves in the process.
Hiring is often seen as a practical process - put up a job ad, wait for applications, choose someone whoâs technically skilled. But weâve learnt that itâs far more nuanced. We believe hiring is one of the most energetically demanding (and misunderstood) elements of business. And in todayâs conversation, we unpack why that is and what needs to change.
Hereâs what we explore:
Why the hiring process isnât just about the candidate - itâs about youHow your internal state and expectations impact the quality of your hiresThe subconscious stories that may be holding you back from finding the right fitWhat to look for beyond a rĂ©sumĂ© (and why energy alignment matters more)Why we donât recommend hiring just to âfill a gapâHow to interview in a way that feels human, aligned and clearThe importance of knowing your values, standards and boundaries before hiringOur approach to nurturing a strong, connected, and invested teamWe also share examples from our own experience at Ahead Hair - where weâve grown a team of conscious, aligned individuals who are values-led, not just skilled. The biggest shift? Learning to take responsibility for how we show up in the hiring process, and getting really honest about who we are and what we want.
Because when youâre clear on that, the right people will feel it.
This episode is for you if:
Youâve struggled to find team members who âget itâYouâve hired someone quickly only to regret it laterYou feel emotionally drained by the hiring processYouâre questioning how to build a team that lastsYou want to shift from reactive hiring to intentional leadershipOur biggest takeaway?
Hiring is a reflection of your clarity, energy and standards. When you evolve as a leader, your team evolves too.Need support with hiring or leadership?
We work one-on-one with salon owners to help them create conscious hiring systems, values-driven businesses and empowered team dynamics. If youâre ready to shift the way you hire, lead and grow - reach out to us.To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon
This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative -
In this episode of The Conscious Salon, weâre diving deep into the idea of personal responsibility and exploring how often we carry things that arenât actually ours to hold.
Off the back of a wholesome weekend sleepover with our team (and their husbands), we reflect on a beautiful, chaotic night full of board games, too many wines and a spontaneous osteo appointment on the treatment table. But beyond the mashed potato pivot and parenting tag-teams, what really stood out to us was how often we, as salon owners and empaths, fall into the habit of trying to solve problems that arenât ours to fix.
This conversation is all about understanding choice - the choices we have in how we respond, support and carry emotion. Because hereâs the thing: just because someone tells us theyâre not happy, doesnât mean weâre responsible for making them happy. That goes for our team, clients, partners, kids and friends.
In this episode, we talk about:
Why so many of us assume responsibility for how others feelHow to support someone without taking on their emotional loadThe common trap salon owners fall into with unhappy team membersWhy youâre not responsible for your teamâs (or clientsâ) happinessThe link between emotional labour and burnoutHow to ask the right questions instead of fixing everythingThree practical strategies to start letting go of whatâs not yoursWe also share whatâs helped us navigate these patterns in our own lives and business - and how itâs changed the way we lead our teams and families.
This episode is for you if:
Youâre a salon owner who struggles with boundariesYouâve ever felt guilty for saying no or putting yourself firstYou feel emotionally drained from carrying everyone elseâs âstuffâYou want tools to help you show up with compassion and protect your energyYouâre ready to stop over-functioning for othersOur Three Practical Tips from the Episode:
Say nothing. Just listen. Let people share without needing to fix it. Holding space is powerful.Ask: What is your responsibility in this? Empower others to take ownership of their experience.Ask: How can I best support you? Donât assume - ask them how they want support and meet them there.This episode is a reminder that you can be loving and supportive without losing yourself. That you can be present without over functioning. And that choosing your peace doesnât make you selfish - it makes you sustainable.
To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon
This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative -
Zijn er afleveringen die ontbreken?
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Welcome back to The Conscious Salon Podcast. In this episode, Tess and I (Nicola) are joined by our incredible team member, Tae, as we reflect on one of the most transformative weekends we've had - our latest private client retreat: REVIVE.
As part of our highest level of mentorship, we take our private clients on retreat twice a year. This one was unlike anything weâve done before. This wasn't about business strategy, team management or systems. This retreat was focused entirely on the human behind the business. It was about pausing, breathing, and reviving.
In this chat, we take you behind the scenes of what unfolded during the REVIVE Retreat. We cover:
Why we designed this retreat to focus on emotional release, personal reflection, and reconnection.How we intuitively shifted away from our original program to give our clients what they truly needed.The powerful breathwork sessions, journaling and burnout workshops that moved every single person in the room.Why we ditched the rigid itinerary and gave our clients space to rest and reconnect to themselves.The impact of working cyclically as women and how we incorporated menstrual cycle awareness into the experience.The raw, real, and healing moments that happenedâespecially during the âlove notesâ session (yes, we all cried).How rest, space and intentional connection can completely revive not only our minds, but our capacity as leaders.Youâll hear about what it was like to facilitate this experience (and why it still moves me to tears), the intentional ways we create safety in the room, and how deeply we care about helping women break through burnout and come home to themselves.
We also talk about the difference between working in the business and on the self, and why mentorship must go beyond strategy. This episode is your reminder that growth doesn't always come from the doingâit often comes from the stillness.
Whether youâre a salon owner, team member, or someone in need of a reset, I hope this episode inspires you to make space for your own revival.
To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon
This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative -
In todayâs episode, we sat down with the incredible Kate Slater, a CFO and accountant whoâs not only brilliant with numbers, but also so down-to-earth and passionate about empowering business owners â especially in the salon space.
We chatted all things money, mindset, tax planning, and why understanding your numbers is the ultimate form of self-respect as a business owner.
If you've ever felt overwhelmed, behind on your tax, unsure about how to pay yourself, or even a bit awkward about breaking up with your accountant â this episode is for you.
What we cover in this episode:
What to do if your relationship with your accountant isnât greatA super simple tax planning hack you can do yourselfHow to separate business and personal money (and why it matters so much)Salary vs drawings â and how to decide whatâs right for youThe magic of paying yourself regularly (even when it feels hard!)Why you MUST bank your cash â and how not doing it might be holding you backHow business structure affects your tax, your asset protection, and your futureWhat to do if you feel âfinancially stuckâ â and how to start turning things around todayAnd yes... we even talked about the âbreakup convoâ with your accountant đBiggest takeaways:
You donât need to be perfect with money â just consistentEven if youâre behind or in debt, there is always a path forwardRespecting your money = respecting your time, energy, and futureBuilding wealth starts with being honest with your numbers (even the uncomfortable ones)đ Connect with Kate Slater:
Follow Kate on Instagram: @kateslatercfo
Visit her website: www.camtechslater.com.auIf you loved this episode, make sure you hit subscribe, leave a review, or share it with a fellow salon owner who needs to hear this.
Thanks for being here â and remember, your business thrives when you thrive. đ
To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon
This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative -
In this episode of The Conscious Salon, we go deep into the real emotional landscape that comes with running a salon â specifically, the guilt that creeps in when you're trying to lead, grow and support your team, all while maintaining your own wellbeing.
We talk about our personal experiences with guilt â from feeling bad for taking time off, to micromanaging because we don't want to "burden" others, to the subtle pressure to be liked by everyone. We get honest about the thoughts we've had and the growth itâs taken to shift into more conscious leadership.
We also share three tangible mindset shifts you can start practising today to help manage guilt more effectively â whether youâre a salon owner or a team member.
In this episode, we discuss:
Why guilt is such a common thread in salon leadershipThe link between guilt and people pleasingThe stories we tell ourselves around delegation and supportHow guilt shows up in micromanagementThe power of letting others help you (and how that helps them too)Three actionable tools to shift your guilt mindset todayHow to reframe moments of guilt as growth opportunitiesYour 3 Conscious Guilt Tools:
Say less â resist the urge to overexplain when you feel guiltyAsk yourself: would I expect someone else to feel guilty in this same situation?Look for the opportunity â what could someone else gain from this space you're creating?Join the Conscious Conversation:
Got a story about guilt in your business journey? DM us on Instagram â we love hearing your stories and supporting you through them.To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon
This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative -
This episode is one thatâs truly close to our hearts. We sat down with someone who is not only our biggest supporter, but the heartbeat of our family - our beautiful mum.
We wanted to have an honest, vulnerable chat about how self-development doesnât just impact you, but how it creates a ripple effect on the people around you. Mum shared what itâs been like watching us grow into this business, step outside our comfort zones (ice baths included đ„¶), and how thatâs inspired her to step into her own growth in quieter, meaningful ways.
We talk about the legacy of our incredible grandfather and how proud heâd be of the business weâve built as sisters. Thereâs also a beautiful moment where Mum shares a message for all of the salon owners and women in our industryâthose who are doing it all, often without enough support. Itâs a reminder to ask, to trust, and to receive help when it's offered.
Of course, we finish - as always - with gratitude (and a few laughs along the way, including mumâs âpint of wineâ đ· moment).
This oneâs full of love, honesty, and a deep appreciation for the people who make what we do possible.
We hope it makes you smile, reflect, and maybe even feel a little more supported in whatever season youâre in.
To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon
This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative -
In this candid episode, salon owners and leadership mentors Tess and Nicola open up about the challenges and responsibilities that come with leading a conscious team - especially during emotionally charged times. Over the past few weeks, their team has been navigating a range of difficult personal experiences, from grief to overwhelm, and this episode is a reflection of how theyâve chosen to show up as leaders without losing themselves in the process.
If youâre a business owner or team leader who deeply cares about creating a safe space while also maintaining your own emotional boundaries, this conversation is for you.
Tess and Nicola share real insights into:
How to support team members when they bring emotional baggage into the workplaceWhy the old idea of âleave your stuff at the doorâ is outdated and unrealisticWhat it means to hold space consciously - with both compassion and personal boundariesThe exact steps Nicola takes when a team member arrives visibly distressedHow to avoid absorbing your teamâs energy while still being a supportive leaderThis episode also includes three practical, tangible tips that you can apply right away in your salon, business, or leadership role to protect your energy and support your people more effectively.
What Youâll Learn
Why silence, presence and confidentiality are foundational to trustHow to respond with empathy without trying to "fix" someoneâs situationThe importance of private debriefing versus collective problem-solvingWhat it means to be a conscious leader in 2025How to cultivate safe spaces where people feel seen and supported â not judgedWhether you're managing a salon, leading a creative business, or running a team in any industry, this episode is a must-listen if you're navigating the complexities of human leadership.
To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon
This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative -
Welcome back to another episode of The Conscious Salon Podcast. In this episode, we dive deep into the topic of escapism in entrepreneurship, exploring how it manifests and tips for overcoming it. From avoiding responsibilities to engaging in high-risk behaviours, we discuss how escapism affects business owners and practical steps to create a life you don't need to escape from. Tune in for insightful journaling prompts, personal anecdotes, and strategies to stay consciously connected and disciplined in your entrepreneurial journey.
To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon
This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative -
In this episode of the Conscious Salon Podcast, hosts Nicola and Tess introduce the 'Ah Well' theory, a mindset that has transformed their approach to stress and anxiety. Joined by guest Rache Mahon, they discuss how this philosophy, born from the need to relinquish control and stop sweating the small stuff, has impacted their professional and personal lives. They explore the origins of the theory, its practical applications, and its alignment with Mel Robbins' 'Let Them' theory. Listen in as they share their journey towards adopting a more relaxed and solution-oriented outlook.
To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon
This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative -
In this episode, Nicola and Tessa discuss the revolutionary changes at their salon, The Conscious Salon, which includes transitioning to a 4-day work week. The hosts share their journey from working Saturdays to eliminating them entirely to provide better work-life balance for their team. They discuss the initial resistance from team members, navigating client reactions, and the positive outcomes they've achieved. The episode also underscores their commitment to empowerment, connection, and freedom, highlighting the benefits and challenges of this significant change in their business model. Tune in to hear how this bold move impacted their team, clients, and overall salon performance.
To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon
This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative -
Welcome back to the Conscious Salon Podcast! Today we have a very special guest, Louisa Shaw, founder of Luca Hare and The Colour Society. Louisa joins us for a spontaneous and enlightening conversation about the importance of client consultations in the hairdressing industry. Starting her business in 2013 from her garage, Louisa has grown Luca Hare into a successful salon in regional Wangaratta by focusing on client connection and exceptional consultations. We discuss how consultations are the biggest gap in the industry today, Louisa's journey in founding The Colour Society, and her success with her online course 'Consultations that Convert,' which has become integral to our team training at A Head. Louisa also shares invaluable insights into how she customises colors based on comprehensive client consultations, considering factors like skin tone, style, and lifestyle. We delve into the significance of client retention, rebooking, and why focusing on existing clients can greatly benefit salon owners. Plus, we talk about her upcoming in-person workshop 'New Hair Era' and how you can participate. Join us as we explore how to transform the way you consult with your clients and improve your salon's success. Stay conscious, everyone!
@ thecoloursociety_
New Hair Era Workshop: https://www.thecoloursociety.online/https
To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon
This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative -
In this episode of The Conscious Salon Podcast, we welcome Tess back after her six-week maternity leave. Tess candidly shares her experiences of becoming a mother, from the nerve-wracking moments of early labor to the euphoric birth of her son River.
She discusses the challenges and revelations she faced while balancing motherhood with running multiple businesses.
Join us as we delve into the emotional rollercoaster of new parenthood, the importance of choosing how and when to return to work, and the gratitude for supportive family and business partners.
Whether you're a new mum, a business owner, or both, this episode is packed with heartfelt stories, practical insights, and a lot of laughs.
To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon
This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative -
Join us in this episode of the Conscious Salon Podcast where we dive deep into handling client feedback and maintaining team alignment. Co-host Tae steps in for Tess, who is on maternity leave, to discuss a recent client experience that didn't go as planned.
We explore the importance of listening, addressing egos, and using feedback as a growth opportunity. Learn practical tips for managing stressful situations, fostering team cohesion, and turning negative feedback into positive outcomes.
Tune in to see how vulnerability, communication, and leadership play crucial roles in maintaining high standards and consistency in your salon.
To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon
This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative -
Welcome to another solo episode of The Conscious Salon podcast. While Tess is on maternity leave, enjoying her time with her new son River, I wanted to share some valuable insights into one of our most essential practices at our brick-and-mortar salon â the client journey. In this episode, I'll provide you with our complete client journey blueprint, delving into everything from initial client inquiries to post-appointment follow-ups. Learn how to create a flawless and consistent client experience that sets your salon apart, fosters client loyalty, and boosts retention rates. We'll cover topics such as online booking, deposit policies, consultation processes, salon tours, and the importance of personalised client interactions. Join me as I reveal the key steps and secrets behind our success, designed to be easily implementable for immediate results in your own salon.
To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon
This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative -
Welcome back to The Conscious Salon podcast!
In this special episode, I chat with my amazing boyfriend, Pete Young, about our journey together over the past 17 years. Pete shares insights into his unique jobs, including working at a fruit shop and running a cactus farm. We delve into the challenges we've faced, especially in balancing our relationship with my demanding role as a salon owner.
Pete offers valuable advice for partners of business owners on how to be supportive while maintaining healthy boundaries. We also discuss the importance of mentorship, how it transformed our lives, and the balance between working on your personal growth while staying present in your relationship.
Join us for a heartfelt and candid conversation filled with practical tips and a lot of love.
To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon
This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative -
In this episode of the Conscious Salon podcast, Nicola welcomes back guest Rache Mahon. Rache reflects on her promise to keep things together during this recording, especially after a previous experience that went awry. The conversation dives into Rache's year-long journey of transitioning off the tools at Pearl and Sage in Bendigo, focusing on nurturing and growing her team. Rache also talks about the launch of season two of her podcast, The One Left Behind, which chronicles her adoption story and search for her biological family. Highlighting the massive transition from being heavily involved in the business to a more managerial role, Rache shares her challenges and revelations. She discusses the evolution of her salon from a small waxing salon to a thriving, two-level establishment offering various beauty services. Central to this episode is the theme that 'bigger isn't always better,' as Rache emphasises the importance of self-trust, quality over quantity, and maintaining a balanced work-life dynamic. Nicola and Rache also explore the impact of having a smaller, more aligned team, and how it nurtures a stronger workplace culture. The episode touches on the importance of boundaries and self-care, making this a must-listen for business owners and beauty professionals alike.
To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon
This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative -
Welcome back to the Conscious Salon Podcast! Join us as we sit down with our special guest, Tae, who shares her incredible journey of personal and professional growth through mentorship.
From her initial overwhelming experience at a personal development conference to becoming a key part of our team, Tae reveals how various mentorships have impacted her role and mindset. Listen in to hear about the power of personal development, the importance of support systems, and how mentorship can transform both individuals and businesses.
This episode is packed with insights and heartfelt moments that underscore the value of continuous learning and development in a professional setting.
Don't miss Tae's inspiring story and her encouragement for all salon owners to invest in mentorship for the betterment of their teams and themselves.
To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon
This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative -
In this special episode of The Conscious Salon Podcast, we're recording live from the salon and I have the pleasure of introducing our newest team member, Jess.
Join us as Jess shares her incredible journey over the past few years: from being a successful hairdresser and running her own studio, to opening a group training gym with her husband just before COVID-19 struck, and then transitioning into a corporate role.
Jess offers insight into the challenges and learnings she faced, including the struggle of splitting her time between the salon and the gym, navigating the complexities of the pandemic, and managing her role within the corporate sphere. Jess also provides an inspiring account of how she found her way back to her true passionâhairdressingâand the serendipitous moment she discovered the job opening at Ahead.
Listen in as Jess and I discuss the importance of alignment, the impact of feedback in different work environments, and the deep sense of fulfilment that comes with finding a workplace where values match your own. Perfect for anyone interested in personal growth, career transitions, and the beauty industry.
To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon
This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative -
Welcome to the Conscious Salon podcast! Today, I'm flying solo to share a deeply personal and transformative story about our journey into mentorship, self-development, and self-discovery. Tess and I founded Melbourne's first mindful salon 12 years ago with no experience, no money, and no clients. Despite numerous challenges and skepticism from others, we built a successful business through sheer hustle and an unwavering commitment to providing an exceptional client experience.
However, our turning point came when we invested in a mentorship program despite severe financial strain. This leap of faith completely transformed our business strategies, financial management, and personal lives. The mentorship not only provided us with essential business skills but also deeply impacted our self-belief and leadership qualities. Over time, we've continually engaged with various mentorsâcovering business, mindset, nutrition, and even credit card pointsâhelping us to grow both personally and professionally.
We now thrive with a team of six, operate a comprehensive personal development program, and enjoy a level of freedom and flexibility we never imagined possible. This episode is a heartfelt invitation to explore mentorship, take risks, and believe in your potential to create an expansive and inspiring life. Thank you for joining me on this reflective journey. Stay conscious!To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon
This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative -
Welcome to the Conscious Salon podcast! In this episode, Nicola and Tessa explore their past struggles with high cortisol levels and share practical tips for maintaining balance and reducing stress. As salon owners, they discuss the addiction to cortisol often found in entrepreneurs and offer three actionable steps to ensure a healthier lifestyle. Join us for an insightful conversation on achieving work-life harmony.
To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon
This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative - Laat meer zien
