aHead Full of Dreams: Recent Episodes

Nicola

Welcome to aHead Full of Dreams - a podcast designed to consciously make a difference. Join Tess and Nicola - sisters, best friends and founders of aHead, Melbourne’s first Mindful Salon.In this space, you’ll be empowered, inspired and entertained by the ups and downs of running a conscious, small business.

What happens when the business you've poured your heart into no longer feels like the room you're meant to be in?

In this honest and emotional episode, Nic and Tess open up about the decision to sell their salon and the leadership lessons they've learned throughout the process.

Together, they discuss the emotions of letting go, navigating change as a team, communicating openly during uncertain seasons, and why creating a self-led business sometimes means stepping aside so someone else can take it even further.

Whether you're considering selling your business, stepping into a new season, or simply wondering if you've outgrown the role you're in, this conversation is a powerful reminder that leadership isn't about holding on. It's about knowing when to let go.

In this episode, you'll learn:
🌱 How to recognise when you've outgrown the business you built
💭 Why letting go can be one of the greatest acts of leadership
🤝 The importance of honest communication during seasons of change
❤️ How to support your team through uncertainty and transition
🚀 Why building a self-led business creates opportunities for everyone to grow
💡 The mindset shift that helped Nic and Tess confidently sell their salon
🌟 How stepping out of one room creates space for someone else—and yourself—to thrive

If you're navigating change, wrestling with a big decision, or wondering what the next chapter looks like, this episode will encourage you to trust your instincts, embrace growth, and lead with courage.

To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

What happens when your own team puts you in the hot seat?

In this special episode, the tables are turned as Team Leader Tae takes over the podcast, asking Nic and Tess the questions they weren't expecting. What starts as a fun role reversal quickly becomes one of the most honest and vulnerable conversations they've ever shared.

Together, they reflect on the moments that shaped who they are as leaders, from childhood experiences and personal challenges to grief, motherhood, business ownership, and the lessons that continue to influence how they lead today.

This isn't a conversation about having all the answers. It's about becoming more self-aware, leading with intention, and recognising that great leadership begins with understanding yourself.

In this episode, you'll learn:

🎙️ What happened when Nic and Tess swapped seats and became the ones answering the questions
🌱 How childhood experiences continue to shape leadership, relationships, and decision-making
🧠 Why nervous system regulation is one of the most underrated leadership skills
❤️ The lessons grief, motherhood, and challenging seasons taught them about resilience
💬 How "proving energy" can quietly impact the way you lead your team and your life
⏳ Why you don't need to have everything figured out by a certain age
🌟 The leadership moments they're most proud of, and why they have nothing to do with business success

Whether you're leading a salon, growing a business, or simply navigating a season of personal growth, this episode is a reminder that conscious leadership starts from within.

To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

What does it really take to build a salon that thrives without relying on you every single day?

In this episode, Nic and Tess sit down with award-winning salon owner Maria Unali to explore the leadership journey behind building multiple successful salons, creating an incredible team culture, and learning how to step back without sacrificing growth.

Maria shares the lessons she's learned over decades in the industry, from taking over her father's salon, navigating motherhood while growing a business, embracing conscious leadership, and using AI to streamline operations and create more freedom.

This is an honest conversation about leadership, resilience, personal growth, and building a business that supports the life you want to live.

In this episode, you'll learn:
💼 How Maria built multiple award-winning salons and a thriving salon culture
🌱 Why conscious leadership transformed the way she leads her team
🤝 The importance of hiring for values and building long-term team alignment
👩‍👧 How motherhood changed her approach to leadership and business
💬 Why the conversations you avoid today become the problems you face tomorrow
🚀 How to create a salon that can grow without relying on you every day
🤖 How AI is helping salon owners save time, create systems, and lead more effectively

Whether you're growing your first salon or leading a large team, Maria's story is packed with practical leadership lessons and mindset shifts that will leave you thinking differently about what it means to build a successful business.

To follow Maria's journey:
https://www.instagram.com/maria_unali/

To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

Building a sales-focused team isn't about teaching better sales scripts—it's about building confidence.

In this episode, Nic and Tess unpack one of the biggest reasons salon teams struggle to sell, recommend premium services, or confidently charge their prices. The answer isn't a lack of skill. It's often a team's relationship with money, self-worth, and the beliefs they've developed over time.

They explore how money mindset influences sales conversations, why people-pleasing can lead to undercharging, and how salon owners can coach their teams through these challenges with curiosity instead of judgment.

If you want a team that confidently recommends what's best for clients, charges appropriately, and contributes to a thriving salon business, this episode is for you.

In this episode, you'll learn:

💰 Why money mindset has a direct impact on your team's sales performance
🧠 How limiting beliefs stop stylists from confidently recommending premium services
❤️ The connection between people-pleasing and undercharging clients
🔍 How to uncover the real reason your team avoids selling or upgrading treatments
🗣️ Coaching strategies that build confidence instead of creating shame
🚀 Practical steps to help your team confidently charge their worth and create a stronger sales culture

To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

Are you so busy working in your business that you've stopped working ON it?

In this episode, Nic, Tess and Tae unpack one of the biggest reasons salon owners stay stuck, and it's not a lack of technical skill.

If you're constantly behind the chair, putting out fires, struggling to find time for leadership, planning or growing your business, this conversation is your wake-up call.

We dive into:
✨ Why taking time off the salon floor is one of the best investments you can make
📈 The difference between being a great hairdresser and becoming a great business owner
💰 Why leadership, marketing and numbers matter more than another colouring or cutting course
🤝 How investing in yourself creates a stronger team culture and a more profitable business
🚀 The mindset shifts that helped us build a business that doesn't rely on the owner being behind the chair every day

Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, stuck on the hamster wheel, or wondering why your salon isn't growing despite working harder than ever, this episode will challenge the way you think about business ownership.

If you're ready to stop surviving and start leading, this conversation is for you.

Ready to take the next step?

🔥 Limited seats remaining for Off the Floor! 🔥

Join us for our intimate two-day retreat designed for salon owners who are ready to step out of the day-to-day, strengthen their leadership, master their numbers, and build a salon that thrives without relying on them every minute of the day.

📍 QT Gold Coast
📅 7–8 September 2026
🎟️ Strictly limited to 36 salon owners

With only a handful of spots left, now is the time to invest in yourself and your business.

Secure your ticket now:
https://the-conscious-salon.circle.so/off-the-floor

To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

What happens when two senior team members are suddenly off work, hundreds of hours of leave stack up, clients need to be rescheduled, and then your salon ceiling collapses?

That was our reality.

In this episode, we're taking you behind the scenes of one of the most challenging seasons we've experienced as salon owners. From unexpected injuries and staffing shortages to a flooded salon and a ceiling literally caving in during a fully booked day, we're sharing what happened in real time—and what it taught us about leadership, resilience, and culture.

Because here's the truth: culture isn't built when everything is going well. It's revealed when things aren't.

This conversation is an honest look at navigating pressure, supporting a team through uncertainty, and what leadership actually looks like when the plan falls apart.

Inside this episode:

✨ The unexpected challenges that tested our business all at once
👥 Managing a salon with key team members suddenly off the floor
📅 Navigating client expectations during staffing shortages
💥 The day our salon ceiling collapsed and flooded the salon
🧠 How stress compounds when your reserves are already low
💪 The leadership decisions that matter most during difficult seasons
🤝 What real salon culture looks like when everyone is under pressure
🌱 How challenges create opportunities for team growth and development
❤️ The power of communication, ownership, and supporting each other through adversity
🔥 Why your hardest seasons often reveal your strongest foundations

This episode isn't about having all the answers. It's about showing you the reality behind running a business, leading a team, and navigating the moments that don't make it onto Instagram.

If you're currently facing challenges in your salon or business, we hope this conversation reminds you that you're not alone—and that some of the most important growth happens when things don't go to plan.

Join Us Live This September

If you're a salon owner ready to step away from the day-to-day and work on your business instead of constantly working in it, we'd love to see you at Off the Floor.

Hosted by The Conscious Salon and Salon Society, Off the Floor is an intimate two-day event designed to help you build stronger leadership, gain financial clarity, improve your marketing, and create the systems that give you more freedom as a business owner.

📍 QT Gold Coast
📅 7–8 September 2026
🎟️ Strictly limited to 36 salon owners

Learn more and secure your ticket:
https://the-conscious-salon.circle.so/off-the-floor

To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

Some business stories are about growth. This one is about survival, resilience, and finding the courage to begin again.

In this episode, we sit down with Samantha Camilleri, nail artist, entrepreneur, and founder of Herr Co., to talk about the reality behind building a successful beauty brand, and what happens when everything you've worked for is suddenly taken away.

Starting from home with a small client base and a big vision, Samantha built La La Nail into a sought-after brand known for its luxury experience, strong community, and loyal following. But while the business was thriving on the outside, a series of devastating events would eventually force her to close the doors on the salon she had poured her heart into creating.

For the first time, Samantha shares the emotional toll of losing her business, navigating public pressure, rebuilding her identity, and finding the strength to create a new chapter after unimaginable setbacks.

This is a conversation about resilience, reinvention, and what it really takes to keep moving forward when life doesn't go to plan.

Inside this episode:

✨ Building a beauty brand from the ground up
💅 Creating a loyal client community and luxury salon experience
💰 The business lessons nobody teaches you early on
💔 Losing something you've invested years of your life into
🌪️ Navigating grief, trauma, and the emotional impact of starting over
🔁 Rebuilding your confidence after major setbacks
💪 Backing yourself when nothing feels certain
🌱 Reinvention, growth, and stepping into a new chapter with Herr Co.
🤝 The role of support, mentorship, and community during difficult seasons
💛 Redefining success on your own terms

This conversation is honest, vulnerable, and deeply inspiring for anyone who's faced adversity, experienced loss, or found themselves rebuilding from the ground up.

If this episode resonated with you, subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who needs the reminder that setbacks don't have to be the end of the story.

📲 Follow Samantha on Instagram: @herr.co_ @samantha.camilleri

Join Us Live This September

If you're a salon owner ready to step away from the day-to-day and work on your business instead of constantly working in it, we'd love to see you at Off the Floor.

Hosted by The Conscious Salon and Salon Society, Off the Floor is an intimate two-day event designed to help you build stronger leadership, gain financial clarity, improve your marketing, and create the systems that give you more freedom as a business owner.

📍 QT Gold Coast
📅 7–8 September 2026
🎟️ Strictly limited to 36 salon owners

Learn more and secure your ticket:
https://the-conscious-salon.circle.so/off-the-floor

To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

Every successful business has challenges behind the scenes. This episode is about one of ours.

For the first time, we're sharing how close we came to walking away—not just from our business, but from our partnership as sisters.

What looked strong on the outside was carrying pressure, frustration, and patterns we didn't fully understand. It wasn't until we committed to doing the work together that things began to change.

In this honest and vulnerable conversation, we unpack the lessons that transformed the way we communicate, navigate conflict, and lead both our business and our relationship.

Whether you're working with family, leading a team, managing a partnership, or simply trying to improve an important relationship in your life, this episode will give you practical tools and powerful mindset shifts you can apply immediately.

Inside this episode:

✨ The hidden pressure that can build when you work closely with someone you love
💭 Why conflict is rarely about who's right and who's wrong
🔄 How opposite conflict styles can create ongoing tension and misunderstanding
🧠 The mindset shift that changed everything: seeking to understand before being understood
⚡ The "Auto vs Manual" framework and how it transformed our communication
🚩 The warning signs most people ignore until it's too late
🛠️ Why waiting for things to get bad is one of the biggest mistakes you can make
🤝 How we rebuilt trust, respect, and connection when things felt stretched too far
🌿 The role emotional responsibility plays in leadership and relationships
❤️ What to do when the other person isn't meeting you halfway

This isn't just a conversation about therapy. It's a conversation about growth, self-awareness, leadership, and the courage to work on the relationships that matter most.

If this episode resonated with you, subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who needs to hear it.

Join Us Live This September

If you're a salon owner ready to step away from the day-to-day and work on your business instead of constantly working in it, we'd love to see you at Off the Floor.

Hosted by The Conscious Salon and Salon Society, Off the Floor is an intimate two-day event designed to help you build stronger leadership, gain financial clarity, improve your marketing, and create the systems that give you more freedom as a business owner.

📍 QT Gold Coast
📅 7–8 September 2026
🎟️ Strictly limited to 36 salon owners

Learn more and secure your ticket:
https://the-conscious-salon.circle.so/off-the-floor

To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

Natalie Chadwick's story is one of resilience, reinvention, and learning to trust yourself through every chapter of life.

In this episode, Natalie shares her journey from starting hairdressing at 16, to salon ownership, building a music career, navigating single motherhood, and overcoming significant financial challenges before stepping into her role as Global Creative Director at CPR Hair.

This conversation goes beyond career milestones. It's an honest look at what it takes to rebuild when life doesn't go to plan, how to keep moving forward through uncertainty, and why backing yourself can change everything.

We also discuss an exciting new chapter for CPR Hair, including what's ahead for the brand and the opportunities emerging within the hair industry.

If you've ever questioned your next move, faced setbacks, or found yourself starting over, this episode is for you.

Inside this episode:

✨ Starting a career in hairdressing at just 16 years old
🏢 The realities of salon ownership and the lessons learned along the way
💸 What nobody teaches you about money, business, and financial pressure
👩‍👧 Navigating single motherhood while pursuing ambitious goals
🎤 Building a music career and balancing creativity with responsibility
🔄 Rebuilding after setbacks and creating stability from the ground up
🔥 Learning to trust yourself when the future feels uncertain
🚪 Recognising opportunities and stepping into leadership
🤝 The impact of mentorship, support, and being seen by the right people
🌿 Creating a career and life that feels aligned with who you truly are

This is a powerful conversation about resilience, growth, and finding the courage to begin again.

If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who needs this reminder: your next chapter can be your best one yet.

Follow Natalie on Instagram: @natalie_cprhair

Join Us Live This September

If you're a salon owner ready to step away from the day-to-day and work on your business instead of constantly working in it, we'd love to see you at Off the Floor.

Hosted by The Conscious Salon and Salon Society, Off the Floor is an intimate two-day event designed to help you build stronger leadership, gain financial clarity, improve your marketing, and create the systems that give you more freedom as a business owner.

📍 QT Gold Coast
📅 7–8 September 2026
🎟️ Only 36 tickets available

Secure your ticket and learn more:
https://the-conscious-salon.circle.so/off-the-floor

To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

Your brain doesn’t need another colour-coded to-do list. It needs a circuit breaker. We start with some very real-life Easter chaos (including questionable chocolate choices and parenting economics), then we get straight into what we’re seeing across salons right now: overcomplication, overwhelm, and decision paralysis that keeps good salon owners stuck in ideation instead of execution.

We share the framework we keep coming back to when everything feels like it’s piling up: AWS. It stands for what I Actually need to do, what can Wait, and where can I Simplify.
We talk through how this three-question reset helps when you’re juggling clients, leadership, content, home life, and the mental load that comes with running a business. It’s not about doing more, it’s about choosing better, faster, and with less drama.

We also go a layer deeper into the uncomfortable truth: the doom spiral can be tempting. Cortisol can be addictive, and sometimes we unconsciously chase the reward of being seen as the one who has it hard. We unpack how to catch that pattern and use a simple boundary statement, “I’m not available to spiral”, then bring it back to practical action you can take today with pen and paper.

If this helped, subscribe, share it with a salon owner who needs a reset, and leave a review so more people can find the AWS method.

To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

A salon can look “successful” and still be one bad day away from falling over. That’s why this chat with Loz Main, founder of Melbourne salon The Rumours Are True, hit us so hard. Loz started hairdressing young, bought her first salon at 21, and quickly learned the brutal lesson of being sold “booked out” books that didn’t exist. The hustle was real, but so was the identity wobble that comes from trying to act like a polished business owner before you’ve even finished growing up.

We talk about what changes when you stop performing and start leading as yourself. Loz shares how culture, hiring, and client experience shift when you build a salon around who you actually are, not who you think you should be. And yes, we get into the wild fun too, including her legendary Christmas-week “12 days” energy boost and why a topless waiter can be a surprisingly practical staffing solution.

Then the conversation turns deeper: a frightening accident at home that exposed how much the business relied on her, plus the systems she built to stop that happening again. We unpack her headset communication setup, code words, and how process can create calm without killing creativity. We also move through COVID lockdown pivots, lease stress, fertility struggles, grief, and the moment she finally held Freddie after months of fear and disbelief.

If you’re a salon owner, hairdresser, or emerging leader looking for real-world salon management lessons, team culture ideas, and systems that actually work, this one is for you.
Subscribe, share it with a friend in the industry, and leave a review telling us what you’re changing in your salon next.

To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

If you’ve ever promoted your best stylist into a team leader role and then wondered why nothing really changed, we get it. Leadership in a salon doesn’t fail because people don’t care. It fails when we give someone a title but no structure, no decision rights, and no time to lead. So they hesitate, they double-check everything, and you end up carrying the load anyway.

We sit down with Tae and Nikki to talk about what actually works: getting painfully clear on responsibilities, building trust, and making “time off the floor” non-negotiable so a salon manager can think, plan, coach, and problem-solve. We also unpack the real-world shift that happens when a leader has permission to make calls, move clients when needed, and speak up early when they’re overwhelmed, instead of pushing through until everything cracks.

One of the biggest takeaways is the safe feedback loop. We share how direct, respectful feedback (including a retreat exercise that puts truth on the table fast) helps owners and leaders make better decisions together, even when they don’t fully agree. If you’re a salon owner, clinic owner, team leader, or manager trying to build a calm, accountable, high-performing team, this one will hit home.

Subscribe for more practical salon leadership conversations, share this with an owner who’s struggling to delegate, and leave a review to help the podcast reach more leaders.

What’s the one responsibility you need to define clearly this week?

To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

The fastest way to lose trust with a great team? A “quick” message on their day off.

In this episode, we have a real conversation about after-hours texting, busy work group chats, and the small leadership habits that can quietly turn your team’s downtime into stress. It’s something many salon owners don’t think twice about, but the impact is bigger than it seems.

We start with the human side. Life happens, things come up, and sometimes it feels easier to just send the message. But if we want to lead high-performing teams, we cannot rely on constant access to our staff. What feels quick and harmless on your end can land very differently for the person receiving it, especially for newer team members or anyone already feeling pressure.

We talk through what’s really happening behind the scenes when those messages come through. Tone gets lost, anxiety can build, and your team can walk into their next shift already feeling on edge.

From there, we move into practical leadership shifts that make a real difference. We share how we keep communication within paid hours, how we use meetings more intentionally, and why separating work and personal channels matters more than ever.

We also walk through simple tools that have helped us, like keeping a running list of notes instead of messaging in the moment, scheduling messages to send during salon hours, and setting boundaries with notifications so they are actually upheld.

If you’re a salon owner, manager, or team leader who wants stronger communication, better culture, and a team that feels respected and supported, this episode will give you clear, practical steps to start with.

If you enjoyed this conversation, follow the show, share it with a fellow salon owner, and leave a review. We would love to hear the boundary you are committing to this week!

To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

February tried to take us out. Not in a dramatic way. In the quiet, sneaky way that happens when every weekend is booked, you’re living out of a suitcase, and you still need to show up for your team, your clients, and your family with a clear head.

Now that we’ve had a moment to zoom out, we’re reflecting on that season and what it taught us about leadership, pace, and staying grounded when everything feels full.

In this episode, we share a behind the scenes update from the Conscious Salon world while Tae’s away. From retreats we’ve locked in, to a live event idea we may have announced before securing a venue, to navigating the momentum of saying yes to opportunities that genuinely align with our values.

We also reflect on Salon Forum. The unexpected power of meeting inspiring people in real life. And a standout leadership moment where we watched someone handle disruption with total composure and what that taught us.

Then we take you to Tasmania. Hobart, Spring Bay Mill glamping, outdoor showers in wild weather, long lunches, near missed flights, and that very real feeling of being both grateful and completely exhausted.

If you are in the salon industry, running a small business, or moving through a busy season right now, this will feel very familiar. We talk about how to grow without losing yourself in the pace.

Most importantly, we break down the two simple anchors that helped us stay regulated through it all:
• A calendar that plans your whole life, not just work
• A daily mindful moment to reset before the day begins

If things have felt fast lately, this episode is your reminder to slow down, reset, and lead with more intention.

👉 Follow the show, share this with someone who needs it, and leave a review so more people can find tools that actually help.

To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

Chaos can look like confidence. But to your team, it often feels like stress.

In this episode, we sit down with fan favourite Julia Lambert to unpack a deceptively simple leadership shift that changes everything.

What starts as a story about riding a bike quickly turns into a powerful conversation about calm leadership, psychological safety, and why teams perform better when they can trust how you respond, what you prioritise, and whether you follow through.

We explore how unpredictability shows up in everyday leadership. Think vague “quick chats” that instantly create anxiety, shifting priorities that kill momentum, and inconsistent reactions that leave your team second guessing everything. In a salon environment where days are full and pressure is constant, these small habits have a big ripple effect.

Julia shares a practical and grounded approach to leading with more clarity and consistency. From giving your team permission to say no in a way that still supports the business, to a simple framework for handling mistakes without blame or shame.

We also break down our favourite “how to work with me” blueprint. Clear expectations, simple boundaries, and communication preferences that make teamwork smoother and decisions faster.

✨ In this episode, you will learn:
• Why predictability builds trust and psychological safety
• How unpredictable leadership creates stress and confusion
• Simple ways to communicate more clearly with your team
• How to manage up and prioritise without overwhelm
• A better way to handle mistakes without damaging culture
• How to create a “how to work with me” guide for your team

If you want a calmer salon, a stronger team, and more consistent leadership, this episode is your reset.

👉 Follow the show, share this with a leader who needs it, and leave a review with your biggest takeaway.

To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

Ever found yourself in a one-on-one where a team member gets emotional… and you’re not sure whether to comfort them or hold the standard?

In this episode, we unpack one of the most important leadership skills for salon owners: knowing when to hold space and when to hold accountability, without slipping into people pleasing or becoming overly harsh.

This is a practical, real-world conversation designed to help you lead with clarity, confidence, and consistency in those moments that actually shape your team culture.

We share:

The difference between holding space and holding accountability in leadership
How to support emotions without lowering standards
Why rescuing or avoiding hard conversations creates bigger issues over time
A simple framework for handling tough conversations with clarity
How to regulate the room before trying to solve the problem
The importance of naming expectations and identifying performance gaps
Why SMART goals still matter in salon leadership
How to set clear next steps with timelines and measurable outcomes
The follow-up system that turns conversations into real behaviour change
Scripts you can use immediately in one-on-ones and performance conversations
How to handle repeated patterns without frustration or avoidance
The balance between listening deeply and leading decisively

Great leadership is not about choosing between empathy and standards. It is about learning how to hold both at the same time.

If this episode helped you, follow the show for more salon leadership and team management conversations, share it with a salon owner who needs it, and leave a review so more people can find the podcast.

Which phrase are you going to use first?

To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

Your gut is speaking. The real question is… are you listening?

A lot of salon owners struggle with self trust, and it shows up in ways that quietly impact everything. Decisions get delayed. Standards become inconsistent. Team issues are ignored until they turn into bigger culture problems.

In this episode, we unpack what a lack of self trust actually looks like in real salon leadership. From overthinking decisions, to constantly asking for validation, to allowing behavior you already know is not aligned. These patterns are more common than you think, and they come at a cost.

We also explore the people pleasing trap and the “I can change them” mindset. This is not just personal. It directly affects how you manage your team. If you have ever avoided difficult conversations, waited for the “right time” to address issues, or tried to be liked instead of respected, this conversation will hit home.

You will also learn how to start rebuilding trust in yourself. We talk about how intuition shows up physically, why noticing it matters, and how to create more calm and clarity in your decision making. Plus, why having the right support system can help you lead in a more grounded and consistent way.

In this episode, you will learn:
• How low self trust affects your leadership and team culture
• Why indecision and overthinking hold your salon back
• The danger of people pleasing as a leader
• How to recognize and trust your intuition
• Practical ways to make more confident decisions
• The role of support in becoming a stronger leader

If you want to become a more confident salon owner and build a stronger, more aligned team, this episode is for you.

Follow the show so you never miss an episode, and share this with a salon owner who needs it.

To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

What if the only thing keeping your salon small is the story you tell yourself about what your team might think?

In this episode, we talk honestly about the quiet fear that stops many salon owners from stepping off the floor. The worry about being seen as lazy, distant, or only focused on money can keep owners stuck behind the chair long after the business needs them elsewhere.

We share how one simple day off the floor became the most focused strategic day of the week and eventually led to a full transition into visionary leadership. This conversation explores the shift from technician to business architect and why creating space to think, plan and lead is essential for long term growth.

In this episode we share:

The mindset shift from working in the salon to leading the business
Why many owners feel guilt about stepping off the floor
How one weekly day off became a strategic leadership rhythm
The difference between technician work and visionary work
How empowering therapists and stylists improves team performance
The numbers that actually show salon growth including rebook rate, NPS, retail conversion and wage to turnover ratio
How to communicate leadership changes without over explaining
When to step in for difficult conversations and when to step back
Navigating team perceptions around success, flexibility and leadership freedom
Why building a vision creates better pay, development and opportunity for your team

Leading a growing salon requires courage to step into the role of architect, not just technician. When the vision is clear and the culture is strong, growth becomes something the whole team benefits from.

Follow the show for more conversations about salon leadership, culture and business growth, and share this episode with a salon owner who might need the reminder that working on the business is real leadership.

To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

How do you keep leading when your world changes overnight?

In this episode, we sit down with Prue Taylor, founder of Lady and The Hair, for a heartfelt conversation about love, loss, and the quiet strength it takes to keep showing up for your team while navigating deep personal grief.

From starting in a garage in Melbourne’s west to building a thriving two location salon, Prue shares the journey behind her business and the life experiences that shaped her leadership. When the sudden loss of her partner Damian changed everything, she had to find new ways to care for herself while continuing to support the team and clients who relied on her.

Inside this conversation we explore:

Building a salon from a garage into two thriving locations
Leading a 20 person team while navigating profound personal loss
The emotional weight hairdressers often carry for their clients
What the first year of grief can really feel like
Learning when to step off the salon floor to honour healing
How breathwork helped regulate the nervous system during overwhelming moments
Simple ways salon teams can reset and support one another
Creating services like extensions and hair loss solutions that restore confidence for clients
Showing up honestly and vulnerably as a salon owner online

This episode is about more than business. It is about humanity, resilience, and the courage it takes to keep going when life does not unfold the way we expected.

If this conversation resonated with you, follow the show and share it with someone who might need a little strength today.

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Ever felt your team lose its spark and slip into autopilot?

In this episode, we share how we recognised the shift early and led a full culture realignment: resetting standards, strengthening communication, and recommitting to people-first leadership. Between school drop-offs, travel, closures, and a packed calendar, this is how we brought clarity and momentum back to the salon floor.

This wasn’t about new colour formulas or more product training. The real shift came from mindset work, honest conversations, and a team willing to recommit out loud.

Inside this conversation:

The early signs your team is drifting into autopilot
What a true alignment reset looks like in practice
Why training humans matters more than training technique
The weekly leadership rhythm that protects culture
How to repair behaviour quickly without drama
Why mindset work lifted performance more than technical education
Rebuilding energy during closures and sick leave
The role of community in sustaining long-term culture

Strong culture isn’t accidental. It’s built through cadence, courage, and clear standards.

To follow our journey:
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Want a calmer start, clearer goals, and a team that actually owns the day? We break down our ten‑minute morning pump‑up that’s taken us from scattered huddles to a self‑led, high‑performing salon. It’s simple, fast, and designed to be implemented tomorrow without adding chaos to your diary.

We start with what changed everything: making the meeting paid, scheduled, and non‑negotiable. From there, we walk through each section of our board and why it works. Wins come first, with reasons that build confidence and recognition. Then a single shared focus aligns the team around today’s priority: rebooking before holidays, retail momentum, promo pushes, or content capture, so every touchpoint supports the target. Awareness flags the likely bottlenecks before they bite: stacked evenings, towel flow, stock, even a stylist’s sore back, so support can be planned rather than begged for at 5pm.

The heart of our system sits in the three daily tasks per person. These aren’t routine duties; they’re outcome‑based actions like home‑care goals, treatment upgrades, or content deliverables. We follow up the next morning with honest accountability and loud celebration, which turns individual effort into shared energy. Gratitude prompts deepen trust without getting fluffy, while a concise weekly task list keeps momentum steady between clients. And the love notes? They stay up all week and they change the room—public praise that makes people feel seen, safe, and ready to stretch.

You’ll hear real examples, the cadence we use, and the small details that drive results, including the 94% rebooking spike during Christmas week.

If you want the full framework, we also share how to access our Conscious Meetings course for team meetings, one‑on‑ones, front of house, and leadership rhythms.

Try the ten‑minute pump‑up tomorrow, then tell us what shifts first—energy, results, or both. If this helped, follow the show, share it with a salon owner who needs it, and leave a quick review so more teams can level up.

To follow our journey:
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Ever wished you had a people and culture director on speed dial for those tough leadership moments?

We sit down with our long-time friend Taryn, a seasoned director of people and culture, to talk through fair terminations, sick leave patterns, feedback that truly lands, and repairing workplace culture in a way that feels human, practical, and doable.

We start with one of the hardest parts of leadership: ending employment with respect. Taryn shares a clear, defensible approach built on setting expectations, giving genuine opportunities to improve, and documenting each step so when it is time to part ways, it can be done with kindness and clarity. From there, we explore chronic sick leave in service-based businesses, where last-minute call-ins impact clients and revenue, and how compassionate boundaries paired with clear consequences help reset patterns.

Taryn also offers steady scripts for emotional one-on-ones, guidance on supporting mental health while holding standards, and tools for rebuilding culture through trust-based conversations, values alignment, and structured mediation. We cover how to address gossip, cliques, and passive aggression, plus practical ways to coach performance without triggering defensiveness.

We round out the episode with advice on workplace celebrations, psychosocial safety, and small changes that lift both wellbeing and results.

If you lead a salon and want real-world scripts, steps, and systems that make you calmer and your team stronger, this episode is your toolkit.

Subscribe, leave a review, and share it with another owner who is ready to lead with both compassion and backbone.

To follow our journey:
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What does it take to build one of Victoria’s largest salons without losing the soul that drew you to the craft?

We sit down with Carla Tedesco, founder of Alarah Hair Studio and TED Haircare, to trace the path from a five-chair startup funded by a scrappy personal loan to a 500m² Mentone HQ with 30 chairs, 10 basins, and a team of 27. Carla shares how empathy became her most reliable performance tool, why clear boundaries protect both home and salon, and how four floor managers and monthly rhythms keep a complex operation calm, focused, and kind.

Carla opens up about beginning her business with a partner and parting ways with respect, then walks us through the near-miss of buying a property with the wrong zoning. That hard lesson sharpened her diligence and ultimately led to a space that houses training, community, and a thriving culture. During COVID, she chose conviction over caution, consolidating multiple sites into a single headquarters that feels more like a small city than a salon—airy, intentional, and built for growth.

Motherhood didn’t slow Carla down; it deepened her purpose. With three kids under four and a recent autism diagnosis for her daughter, she talks about patience, presence, and building psychological safety at work so people can do their best. We dig into the industry’s fragile apprentice pipeline, why completion rates matter, and the practical steps her team uses to support individual learning styles. Carla also introduces TED Haircare, a legacy-driven range of tools named after her children, designed for daily salon use and a distinct identity that travels from chair to classroom to online.

If you care about leadership, culture, and creative business growth, this story is a masterclass in scaling with heart and rigour. Listen, share it with a salon owner who needs a boost, and if it moved you, subscribe and leave a review to help others find the show.

To follow our journey:
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A single word can change the way a year feels. We unpack the practice that’s guided us for years, which choosing one anchor word that filters every decision across business, health, money and family, and we show how it beats scattered resolutions and burnout cycles.

We revisit last year’s choices to prove the point:
“Simplicity” reshaped meals, work systems and mental load, creating space for better client care and calmer days. “Nurture” helped navigate identity shifts, newborn rhythms and a tween’s big feelings, softening our pace without losing momentum. Those words weren’t slogans; they were daily cues that redirected tough moments toward better outcomes.

Now we set our compass for 2026 with two distinct energies.
“Elevate” is about rising one notch in the moments that matter: steadier leadership, clearer conversations, and a more intentional home and client experience. It’s not hustle; it’s embodied growth.
“Discipline” builds the structure that freedom needs: hard stop at 3:30, deep work in focused blocks, less scrolling, stronger training, and money choices that align with family goals. We share practical guardrails you can copy, from lock-screen reminders to boundaries that hold during launches, and we map out how these words will guide retreats, travel and creative projects without tipping into chaos.

If you’re ready to choose your own word, we walk through a reflection process to surface patterns, name what you want more of, and test words that truly support you when you’re tired, tempted or triggered.
Come pick a word that fits like a glove and stretches like a goal.

Subscribe, share this with a friend who needs a reset, and tell us:
what’s your word for 2026?

To follow our journey:
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What does it really take to build a resilient business when life throws the heaviest punches?

We sit down with our longtime friend and mentor, Kate Morris, to unpack the candid story behind her rise from gym-floor trainer to a sought-after women’s health and business coach with a 400-person waitlist. Kate lost 80% of her clients overnight during lockdowns, invested her last dollars into mentorship, and rebuilt from ten to 110 online clients while protecting quality and standards. No hype, no hustle theatre—just discipline, delivery, and a bias for action.

Kate opens up about the two years she stalled on stepping into business mentoring due to fear of judgment, the tall poppy digs she copped, and the moment she chose to move anyway. We dig into why staying in your lane matters more than chasing industry noise, how to set boundaries that protect results, and why coachability is the line in the sand for any high-trust programme. You’ll hear how she handles the sting of client unfollows without spiralling, running a quick self-audit on service and then detaching from stories that aren’t hers to hold.

There’s a powerful section on navigating a heavy season: her partner’s health scares, surgery, grief, lost content, and relentless travel. Instead of disappearing or pretending it was easy, Kate built a bare-minimum list: tight actions that keep delivery strong and sales alive when energy is thin. That small, steady cadence led to her biggest year. If you’ve been craving a grounded blueprint for sustainable growth—across fitness, mindset, and business operations—this conversation is your field guide.

We also turn up the heat with a cheeky hot-seat game that forces honest answers and even more honest laughs. Expect practical tactics, tough love, and proof that women leading with standards can scale without chaos.

If this resonated, follow the show, share it with a friend who needs a push, and leave a quick rating and review. It helps more women find the tools to win.

To follow our journey:
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Money talk can feel prickly, especially when you’re juggling bookings, staff and the pressure to keep everyone happy.

We went from dodging finance chats to feeling steady and clear, and today we share the exact habits that made the shift: weekly number check-ins, paying ourselves first, pricing with strategy, banking all cash and systemising every dollar with automated buckets. If money has ever made you want to run, this conversation brings you back to ground with simple actions that build calm and profit.

We start by naming the discomfort and why open money talk can trigger people, then walk through how regulation—not hustle—changed everything. Weekly visibility gave us control over break-even and cash flow. Paying ourselves first created a non-negotiable boundary that forced better decisions.

On pricing, we unpack why copying competitors and last-minute discounts quietly bleed margin, and how to account for wages, consumables, super, tax and overheads so every service funds a healthy profit. We also call out the hidden cost of panic promos that attract bargain hunters while sidelining loyal clients.

From there, we get frank about cash. Banking every dollar protects your valuation, supports mortgage approvals and keeps you audit-safe. Finally, we lay out a practical blueprint: pull twelve months of transactions, sort them into clear buckets like rent, wages and leave, overheads, repairs and maintenance, tax and super, plus a profit reserve then automate weekly transfers so big bills don’t spike your nervous system. It’s the calm, boring system that quietly builds a business buyers trust and owners can breathe in.

If you’re ready to swap anxiety for agency, press play, take notes and choose one habit to implement this week. Love the show?

Follow, share with a salon friend and leave a quick review so more owners can build confident, profitable money habits.

To follow our journey:
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Ready to stop being the emergency contact for every problem and build a salon that runs smoothly without you hovering?

We mapped out a 2026 playbook for salon owners who want calm, high performance, and real freedom: pay for meetings during work hours, lead with courage, and turn your numbers into a shared compass. Instead of venting at home or hoping issues fade, we walk through how to hold direct, respectful conversations that reset standards and lift trust across the floor.

We dig into weekly number debriefs that bring clarity to services, retail, and rebookings, plus why sharing your break‑even converts anxiety into agency. You’ll hear why a 60‑minute monthly one‑on‑one is non‑negotiable if you want self‑led, connected teams, and how simple tools like love language and personality quizzes help tailor feedback, reduce friction, and grow genuine support between colleagues. This is people-first leadership backed by structure, not slogans.

On the flip side, we call time on habits that keep owners stuck. Running the salon from your head creates key person risk; it’s time to document, digitise, and systemise so holidays and sick days don’t collapse operations. We show how to enforce cancellation policies without feeling cold, when to let go of unaligned team members, and the steps to finally eliminate shoulder taps by building playbooks and clear escalation paths. If you’re craving a confident, drama‑light culture with stronger numbers and fewer fires, this conversation gives you the exact moves to make now.

If this helped, follow the show, share it with a fellow owner, and leave a quick review, then tell us which “in” you’re starting first.

To follow our journey:
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Numbers don’t have to be scary. If spreadsheets make you want to hide behind the reception desk, this episode is for salon owners who want to take control of their money without the stress. Accountant and salon numbers coach Kate Slater breaks down complex financial topics into simple, actionable steps so you can stop guessing and start planning. From tax traps to cash flow clarity, we cover the essentials that every salon owner needs to know.

We dig into the real-world issues that trip up owners, including BAS, payroll, WorkCover, and equipment purchases. Kate shares practical systems to protect your cash, understand deductions, and plan for both growth and lifestyle, so your business runs on numbers—not panic.

In this episode, we cover:

Why your “$30k profit” doesn’t equal cash in the bank
Multi-account systems for GST, PAYG, super, and income tax
WorkCover, apprentice ratios, and wage estimates explained
Commonly missed deductions for home admin, marketing, and subscriptions
Bonuses, withholding, depreciation, and repair vs renovation strategies
Cash-first checklist for upgrading equipment or taking loans
Pricing for profitable services without chasing trends
FBT risks, luxury purchases, and company structures that protect assets
Paying yourself consistently for predictable planning and energy

Take control of your salon’s finances and replace panic with a plan. Subscribe, share with a salon friend, and leave a comment with your biggest money question for future episodes.

To follow our journey:
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Ever wish you could hold your team to higher standards without being the bad cop? This episode shares a leadership playbook that turns confrontation into curiosity and guesswork into actionable data. Build confidence, lift rebooking and retail, and keep your team aligned — all while staying approachable.

In this episode, we cover:

How to start tough conversations with curiosity: “I’ve noticed a pattern…”
The five‑minute Tuesday debrief to track weekly targets, services, rebooking, retail, and wins
Using transparency and recognition to build trust and buy‑in
Micro‑coaching: catch small moments, offer guidance, and keep tone light but clear
Boundaries that protect authority while staying warm and approachable
Three practical moves for new or hesitant leaders: lead with curiosity, track numbers weekly, and follow up with a plan

Turn small coaching moments into consistent habits that make your salon calmer, predictable, and more productive.

If this episode helps you lead with ease, follow, share it with a teammate, and leave a quick review with the one metric you’ll “plug in” this week.

To follow our journey:
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What does it really take to grow a cosmetic clinic without losing trust, standards, or heart? In this episode, we sit down with Amy, founder of Eltham Cosmetic Clinic, to unpack how a solo injector scaled to a 12 person team while keeping client care, safety, and culture front and centre.

Amy shares the behind the scenes of building a clinic that feels human and professional, even as it grows. From calming anxious clients with precise language to designing a brand experience that builds long term trust, this conversation is a masterclass in thoughtful growth.

We cover:

Scaling from solo injector to a multi practitioner clinic
Creating client journeys that feel safe, calm, and personal
Building a compliant team including prescribing doctors and clear roles
Why brand, space, uniforms, and photography matter more than you think
Rebuilding culture after grief, burnout, and near breaking points
Financial foundations for injectors including pricing, margins, BAS, and P&L
Leading with kindness while still holding performance standards

This episode is for cosmetic nurses, clinic owners, and service based founders who want sustainable growth without sacrificing values. If it resonates, follow the show, share it with someone in aesthetics, and leave a review to help more founders find this conversation.

To follow our journey:
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What if the business you built to prove your worth is the very thing draining it? In this honest conversation, hairstylist and coach Maxi Dotorri shares why she sold a thriving family-run salon and chose health, clarity, and self-respect instead.

In this episode, we talk about:
• The warning signs of burnout Maxi ignored for years
• How lockdown exposed migraines, panic, and an identity tied to being “the owner”
• The moment a team resignation became the catalyst for change
• Selling a salon fast and rebuilding life around energy, not optics
• Why resilience is not pushing harder but building systems that protect you
• The industry myth that 12-hour days equal success
• Simple health and leadership frameworks that actually work in busy seasons
• How better boundaries create stronger teams, calmer leaders, and healthier families

Maxi now runs two businesses on her own terms and is fully booked into 2026, helping women reclaim their health and leadership. This episode is a powerful reminder that you are allowed to move the goalposts, sell the thing you built, and redefine success in a way that supports your life.

Share this with a salon owner or creative who needs it. If it resonates, follow the show and leave a review so more leaders can find their way back to themselves.

To follow our journey:
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Start strong, breathe deeper, and write the year you actually want to lead. This guided intention setting session with Tess is for salon owners and leaders who want less stress, stronger culture, and sustainable growth in 2026.

Through calm structure and practical reflection, you will move from vague goals to clear leadership behaviours that shape how your salon feels, functions, and grows.

In this episode, we guide you through:
• A short breath practice to settle your nervous system
• Defining values that anchor decisions during busy seasons
• Designing a thoughtful client and team experience from booking to follow-up
• Conscious leadership habits that support clarity, presence, and feedback
• Setting three meaningful SMART goals beyond vanity metrics
• Simple culture rituals that build trust and teamwork
• Boundaries that protect energy, focus, and work life balance
• Streamlining operations to reduce friction and overwhelm
• Choosing your word of the year and a proud outcome for 2026

Grab your journal, press play, and pause as needed. If this session helped you get clear, share it with a salon friend, subscribe for the next episode, and leave a review with your word for the year.

To follow our journey:
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Ready to close 2025 with clarity rather than chaos?

In this guided reflection, Tess leads salon owners and leaders through a calm, intentional review of the year that was so you can carry the right lessons forward and release what no longer fits. This episode is designed to help you slow down, breathe, and reflect honestly before stepping into 2026.

In this reflection, we cover:
• A short breathing practice to settle your nervous system
• Key prompts to recognise what you are proud of and how you grew
• Lessons from challenges, turnover, and culture shifts
• Reconnecting with joy through meaningful in salon moments
• Clarifying where you need stronger boundaries and simpler systems
• Reflecting on leadership habits that shaped your team and your life
• Noticing how investing in yourself impacted your business

Bring a notebook, pause when you need to, and let this be a grounded close to the year you actually lived.

If this reflection supported you, share it with a fellow salon owner and follow the show for more calm, practical leadership conversations.

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A 17-year-old with salon keys and no driver’s licence. Two decades later, Karla Daddo steps into a new season, trading a bustling team-based salon for DOYENNE., a luxury rental-chair space built to give freelancers real freedom, community, and profit.

We dive deep into the moments that shaped her: early sabotage and isolation, the kitchen-table bookkeeping with her nan, the rebrand to BRONDE., and the powerful shift that happened when numbers finally told the truth. It’s raw, honest, and full of practical wisdom for anyone who’s ever wondered if a “successful” business can still be the wrong fit.

We unpack how Karla recognised that good doesn’t always mean right, why identity can tangle with work, and what it takes to detach self-worth from daily salon outcomes. Then we go inside DOYENNE.: why a rental-chair model can be more than a chair, how a resource library and smart pricing tools change the first years of business, and the myth-busting behind “there’s no money in hairdressing.” If you’re a stylist craving autonomy without loneliness, or an owner flirting with a pivot, this conversation offers a blueprint that blends numbers, boundaries, and heart.

You’ll hear frank talk about money, mentorship, and designing work that serves your life. You’ll also hear the invitation to pause, strip back the people-pleasing, and ask the only question that matters: what do you want?

Subscribe for more grounded conversations on salon leadership, freelance success, and building a creative business that actually supports you. If the episode resonates, share it with a stylist who’s ready for their next brave step and leave us a review to help more owners find this conversation.

To follow our journey:
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What if the busiest season in the salon could feel steadier, clearer, and more in your control?
This solo pep talk is your calm reset for the Christmas rush. It gives you grounded tools you can use today to slow your breath, steady your energy, and lead your space with intention even when the salon is buzzing.

✨ Inside this episode:
• A one minute breathing ritual to regulate your nervous system
• Simple language swaps that strengthen leadership and boundaries
• How to hold a steady pace when the salon feels chaotic
• A gratitude practice that reconnects you with purpose
• Daily team rituals that prevent overwhelm before it starts
• Clear guidance for owners on standards, timing, rebooking, and home care
• Money retention habits that turn December profit into long term growth

This is your reminder to choose your pace, protect your energy, and lead with clarity.

Share this with your team, and if it steadies you, follow us and tap the notification bell so you never miss an episode.

To follow our journey:
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A tired but functioning salon is easy to tolerate. The real challenge is admitting it is not the business you truly want and having the courage to rebuild it into the space you imagine. In this episode, we sit down with our friend and client, Lauryn Mathrick, to explore how she transformed an inherited and successful salon into Self The Salon, a place designed for deep client connection and a work environment where mums can thrive.

Lauryn shares the twenty four hour crossroads that changed the direction of her life. Sign a home contract or buy the salon. That single decision opened the door to years of growth, trial and error, and ultimately clarity about the kind of business she wanted to lead. She speaks openly about hiding her old space online, the moment she chose action instead of perfection, and the design elements that elevated her client experience. From the calming basin lounge to intentional tea rituals to a softer pace that lets clients actually breathe, every choice supported the vision she held.

This was far more than a renovation. It was a complete leadership reset. Boundaries became clearer, conversations happened sooner, and alignment became more important than tenure. Once the space matched the mission, the culture no longer relied on goodwill. It ran on intention and shared values.

We also honour the legacy of Den, whose influence is still woven into the heart of the new space. Lauryn proves that reinvention can hold both evolution and love at the same time. For salon owners sitting in the messy middle, her approach offers a simple and brave blueprint. Set a loving deadline, move quickly on the ideas that feel true, and let your values guide the difficult decisions.

If you are craving a salon that feels like a retreat and a team culture that supports the people who deliver it, this conversation will offer clarity, courage, and the first steps toward your next chapter.

Follow the show, share it with a salon owner who needs a nudge, and leave a review so more salon owners can find these conversations.

To follow our journey:
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@the_conscious_salon

What happens when the dream you chased becomes the cage you’re stuck inside? Dom from NEIKE Hair joins us for a brutally honest ride from opening a salon at 22, to surviving lockdowns, to nearly selling everything when burnout and doubt took over.
The twist: one hard conversation made her choose community over exit, and that choice reshaped everything.

We dig into the early wins and hidden costs of being fully booked, how a scrappy pivot to tint kits and e‑commerce kept the lights on, and why leadership by proximity fails once growth hits. Dom lays out the moment she stopped identifying as “just a hairdresser” and started operating like a CEO: setting standards, publishing numbers, and building systems that let the salon thrive without her glued to the chair. It’s not hype; it’s training pathways, financial clarity, and weekly rhythms that turn chaos into consistency.

There’s a powerful identity thread here too. Dom revisits Fashion Week, once the pinnacle of her ambition, and admits she outgrew that dream. Her body knew first; her mind caught up later. We talk about choosing better rooms, collecting evidence that freedom is possible in the salon industry, and leading in a way that heals old workplace wounds.
If you’ve felt chained to your calendar, scared to step back, or unsure how to translate values into profit, this conversation offers proof and practical steps to move forward with less hustle and more intention.

If this story hit a nerve, follow the show, share it with a salon owner who needs it, and leave a review so more founders can find these tools. Your next brave step starts here.

To follow our journey:
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What happens when you treat your health with the same urgency you give a boardroom deadline? In this episode, we run a real-time experiment on discipline, systems, and self-trust — and the results surprised us.

One of us jumps from an average of 874 steps a day to 10,000 plus structured strength training. The other reframes yoga and movement as daily anchors for a neurodivergent brain. The shift was undeniable: better thinking, stronger boundaries, and delegation that finally stuck because movement time became non-negotiable.

We also talk honestly about the messy bits. The gym mishaps. The walks in the rain. The moments where “I’ll do it later” tries to win. This is the essence of weapon season: removing negotiation, reducing friction, and building self-trust through small, repeatable wins.

Inside the episode, we share the practical levers that actually changed our momentum:
• Booking help within twenty four hours
• Protecting calendar blocks
• Anchoring steps to existing routines
• Using wearables for quiet accountability

If you’re someone who is highly disciplined at work but inconsistent with your health, this conversation will feel like a mirror and a roadmap. You’ll walk away with simple systems and a three step framework to kickstart your next seven days: commit daily, act quickly, and move through discomfort without excuses.

Listen in, try the experiment yourself, and let us know what shifts for you. If this episode resonates, share it with someone who needs a nudge and leave a quick review so more people can find these tools.

Your next seven days might change everything.

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A suitcase, $300, and a window out of a small coastal life — Tamsin’s story begins with a bold leap and unfolds into one of the most powerful salon journeys we’ve shared.

We sit down with Tamsin, founder of Sakara Collective, to explore how a teenage dream became a decade-long vision of artistry, culture, and leadership. From leaving school at 15 to building one of Australia’s most beautiful salons, her story is raw, honest, and deeply human.

Tamsin opens up about the highs and heartbreaks: a full salon fit-out during pregnancy, losing key team members, and the courage to rebuild from truth. She shares how mindfulness, structure, and presence became her anchors and how motherhood reshaped her idea of success and leadership.

This episode is a masterclass in resilience, self-trust, and building something beautiful without losing yourself. Whether you’re a salon owner, stylist, or creative entrepreneur, you’ll walk away grounded and inspired to redefine your own version of success.

✨ Inside this episode:
• Rebuilding after loss and burnout
• Creating mindful systems and rituals in salon life
• Balancing motherhood, leadership, and ambition
• What the “Sakara way” means in action

🎧 Follow the show, share this story with someone who needs courage today, and leave a review to help more salon owners find these real, honest conversations.

To follow our journey:
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What if the gap between where you are and where you want to be is simply how fast you act on what you already know?

In this episode, we sit down with salon owner and mother of two, Carla Crowley, whose quiet fire turned a spare room in Gembrook into a thriving clinic, a trusted team, and now a commercial property that will become her forever business home. Her success didn’t come from hacks or luck, but from decisive action, self-awareness, and a money system that turned stress into structure.

Carla shares how journaling helped her see her progress, how one-on-one mentorship fast-tracked growth, and why speed of implementation beats perfection every time. We unpack real leadership lessons structured one-on-ones, psychological safety, and empowering a team that grows the business with you, not around you.

This episode is a grounded playbook for regional salon and clinic owners ready to grow without burning out. You’ll hear how Carla made bold moves with little cash, secured her dream property, and built a business that runs smoothly while she’s at the Melbourne Show with her kids.

If this story inspires you, follow the show, share it with a salon owner who needs a boost, and leave a quick review telling us one action you’ll take this week.

To follow our journey:
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In this powerful conversation, Rachel Mahon shares her courageous decision to sell her high-performing skin clinic after eleven years in business and begin a new venture with her daughter, Soul Society.

This isn’t a burnout story or a highlight reel. It’s a grounded, human reflection on identity, leadership, and letting go with integrity. From journaling a truth she didn’t want to face, to safeguarding her culture through a values-aligned buyer, Rachel walks us through how she honoured her team, herself, and the next evolution of her career.

💬 In this episode, we talk about:
• Knowing when it’s time to move on, and trusting that whisper
• How to sell your salon or clinic with heart and transparency
• Managing team emotions during transition
• Leadership beyond the treatment room: boundaries, safety, and trust
• Building Soul Society — a culture-driven business with her daughter
• The power of belonging and generational collaboration

If you’re a salon or clinic owner considering change, whether that’s selling, redefining your role, or building something new,this episode will help you find both clarity and courage.

To follow our journey:
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Freedom sounds amazing, until it bumps into your need to control every detail. In this episode, we sit down with Tae, our salon manager, to unpack how control quietly creeps into salon leadership, and what truly shifts when you replace micromanagement with trust.

This isn’t theory, it’s lived experience. We get real about giving someone a title without real power, double-checking that crushed initiative, and the moment we realised our “supportive” words were actually restricting action. Tae shares how that dynamic led to burnout, why stepping away became necessary, and how it ultimately helped all of us rebuild leadership from the ground up.

We talk systems and mindset: the foundations that now keep our business steady without a founder’s hand on every lever. You’ll hear how we made “bring a solution with your problem” a daily practice, defined what true ownership looks like for team leaders, and shifted client loyalty from one stylist to an entire brand experience. The result: smoother operations, stronger culture, and profits that reflect teamwork, not heroics.

If you’re a salon owner craving more time and trust, a team leader stuck between responsibility and permission, or someone ready to step up, this episode is your permission slip.
Ask better questions. Share power. Drop the control habits that keep your team small.

👉 Hit subscribe, share this with another salon owner who’s learning to loosen the reins, and tell us in the comments: what’s one control habit you’re ready to release?

To follow our journey:
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What if the key to building a strong, connected salon team before the silly season isn’t another checklist but honesty, pressure, and celebration?

In this episode, we take you behind the scenes of our Life Ahead Team Development Day: a mix of raw journaling, a horror-themed escape room, and a practical debrief on communication, roles, and trust. It was messy, emotional, and incredibly powerful. The biggest surprise? How clearly our team patterns showed up, and how small shifts in language and leadership can completely change the way your salon operates.

We talk about why journaling first thing clears emotion before the day even starts, and how a Saw-style escape room revealed who naturally leads, who supports, and who needs a moment to find their feet. It turns out, the way we play games is the way we work. From there, we dive into real tools like short scripts for asking for help, mapping communication styles, and reframing leadership as a circle where everyone can both give and receive support.

You’ll also hear real reflections from our stylists and leaders about sisterhood wounds, boundaries, and how to celebrate each other without losing focus. This is a must-watch for any salon or spa owner who wants to build a more united, resilient, and self-aware team especially before the holiday rush.

🎧 If this conversation resonated, make sure to like, subscribe, and share it with another salon owner who’s ready to elevate their culture. And don’t forget to leave a quick comment below. We’d love to hear how you support your team through big growth moments.

To follow our journey:
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The moment you meet Jess Lewis, you feel it: a rare mix of warmth, authenticity, and unstoppable drive that has made her a legend among millennial hairdressers across Australia. From humble beginnings in a home salon with her sister as an apprentice, Jess built one of the country’s most recognised blonde specialist salons, attracting clients who would travel hours for her craft.

Her influence extends far beyond the salon chair. Jess pioneered live workshops that transformed the way stylists learned together and later embraced online platforms to make education accessible nationwide. She has inspired and mentored a generation of hairdressers who continue to cite her as one of their biggest influences.

Behind the success lies a personal story marked by resilience. Jess speaks with raw honesty about returning to work only ten weeks after her first child, navigating miscarriage and divorce, and redefining her identity as both a mother and an entrepreneur. Now a mother of three, she has reimagined family and business life with her husband Luke, launched JL Hair Tools, and created programs that nurture the next generation of stylists.

This conversation is filled with insight, vulnerability, and inspiration. Jess reminds us that it is possible to build something extraordinary while staying true to yourself.

🌟 Whether you’re a salon owner, hairdresser, or entrepreneur, you’ll walk away with practical wisdom and motivation to grow your business. Tune in now for a powerful story of resilience, reinvention, and redefining success on your own terms.

Follow Jess:
Instagram — @jesslewis
| @hairbyjesslewis

🎙️ More from The Conscious Salon:
Website: https://theconscioussalon.com.au

To follow our journey:
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Ever felt like your brand looks like a swan gliding gracefully across the water, while underneath your legs are thrashing just to stay afloat?

In this episode, we dive straight into the “smoke and mirrors” that so many salon and clinic owners face: the glossy grids, pedestal leaders, and feel-good routines that often hide shaky numbers, wobbly culture, and leadership habits we’d rather not admit. No shame. No spin. Just truth, clarity, and the real power that comes from facing what matters.

We start by separating story from stats. Loving your clients isn’t the same as leading them, so we unpack what a truly aligned clientele looks like from pre-booking rates and home-care commitment to average ticket and openness to your process. Then, we pull back the curtain on “culture theatre”, how public gratitude can coexist with private tension, and explore how to shift from avoidant or reactive leadership to calm, conscious candour. Expect honest talk about awards, imposter syndrome, and the reality that even top-tier salons sometimes fight fires while collecting trophies.

Money also gets the daylight it deserves. We share the lessons that came from under-pricing, chasing headcount over profitability, and the months we paused our own wages. You’ll learn how tracking break-even by week, capacity by stylist, and maintaining a clear cash runway can help you make confident decisions — and why being transparent about numbers with your team often builds trust, not fear.

If you’re ready to drop the pedestal, align your prices with your time, and build a culture that holds boundaries without losing heart, this episode will feel like a breath of clean air. Press play, get honest, and start choosing outcomes over optics.

🎧 If this conversation resonates, follow the show, share it with a salon friend who needs a reality check, and leave a quick review. What “smoke and mirrors” habit are you ready to let go of?

To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

In this vulnerable episode, Tess shares her story of a past relationship that left deep emotional scars, and the strength it took to walk away. She reflects on how grief made her more vulnerable, how the red flags were easy to dismiss, and the pivotal moment that gave her the courage to finally choose herself.

Seven years on, Tess speaks with honesty about the lingering impact of shame and self-doubt, while also showing how her healing has given her a renewed sense of purpose. She opens up about the lessons she learned and the inner work that continues long after leaving.

This conversation is both raw and hopeful. It reminds us that while trauma may leave its mark, it can also be a catalyst for growth, self-trust, and empowerment. Tess’s message is clear: if something feels wrong, it probably is, and you always have the power to change your path.

For anyone who has experienced a difficult relationship, or for those who want to better understand and support someone they love, this episode offers validation, compassion, and the reminder that healing is always possible.

Tune in now, and share this episode with someone who might need to hear these words today.

To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

That gut-wrenching moment when a team member resigns. We have all been there. The sinking feeling, the self-doubt, the questions about what this means for your business. You are not alone, and you do not have to navigate it from a place of panic.

In this episode, we offer your emergency pep talk for when a resignation lands on your desk. We share our own vulnerable mistakes (yes, even the tearful clinging!) and the lessons that helped us shift from taking resignations personally to seeing them as part of the natural cycle of business.

Here is the mindset shift that changes everything: every team member has an expiry date. And that is okay. You do not own your staff any more than you own your clients. When you create a safe environment where career conversations can happen openly, departures feel less like rejection and more like evolution.

Whether you are in the thick of a resignation right now or preparing yourself for when it happens, this conversation will help you:

Respond with grace instead of reactivity
Hold space for your feelings without making it about you
See staff transitions as an opportunity for growth, for them and for you

Remember: this change is happening for you, not to you. You have navigated challenges before, and you will navigate this too.

Press play now, and save this episode for the day you need a grounded, heart-led reminder.

To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

In this riveting conversation, Amelia Jane—known as Australia's Queen of Blondes—reveals the extraordinary journey behind her meteoric rise in the hair industry. What begins as a shocking revelation (she actually abandoned hairdressing for six years and once hated colouring hair) unfolds into a masterclass on resilience, reinvention, and authentic entrepreneurship.

Four years ago, Amelia launched Milly the Space, naming it after her grandmother's nickname for her. With raw honesty, she recounts the heartbreaking warehouse salon chapter, withdrawing $40,000 from superannuation with her partner, creating a beautiful three-level space, only to have it shut down by council due to zoning issues. Rather than accepting defeat, while planning her wedding, she immediately secured a new location in Palm Beach, determined not to let her growing team down.

The conversation takes a powerful turn when Amelia discusses balancing motherhood with her expanding empire. "I was so fearful of people thinking I was a mum who put her business first," she confesses, addressing the internal struggle many entrepreneurial mothers face. Her vulnerability shines through as she describes finding strength in her son Hilton, who makes her "feel like a superhero."

Today, Amelia's influence extends far beyond her salon. Her international blonde masterclasses have revolutionized colour techniques, while her fashion label Molly Vie has redefined how hairdressers present themselves professionally. One client shares how wearing Amelia's designs literally transformed her leadership presence: "You literally become the CEO... we see you in your power."

For anyone facing setbacks or juggling multiple passions, Amelia's story offers profound encouragement. As she prepares for her European tour and new Molly Vie collections, her message resonates clearly: you can overcome any obstacle, pursue multiple dreams simultaneously, and define success entirely on your own terms.

Ready to transform your approach to business, creativity, or personal growth? Dive into Amelia's journey and discover what becomes possible when you refuse to let circumstances define your potential.
—
Follow Amelia on Instagram @ameliajanehair to learn about upcoming masterclasses in Europe, Gold Coast, Sydney and Melbourne, and to explore her fashion line Molly Vie.

To follow our journey:
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In this final episode of our Motherhood Series on The Conscious Salon Podcast, we close out with a deeply personal conversation as I (Nicola) interview my sister and co-host, Tessa. This time, Tess takes the hot seat as she shares her journey into motherhood, her experience of maternity leave, and the lessons she has learned about balance, presence, and control while running two thriving businesses.

Tess is a business owner, mentor, stepmother, dog-mum, partner, and now mother to her little boy River. She has lived through multiple pathways into motherhood—first as a stepmum to Talia, then helping care for my son Solly when I was in recovery, and now raising her own baby. Each of these roles shaped the mother she is today and gave her unique preparation for the season she’s in now.

We dive into what it meant for Tess to take a truly present maternity leave—something we intentionally worked hard to create, especially after my own experience of blending birth and business during the height of COVID. Tess shares openly about how different it felt to step fully away from the salon, to let the team thrive without her, and to honour her new role as a mum without guilt.

But alongside the joy of presence, she also reveals the challenges: the sudden loss of identity, the isolation of being at home with a newborn, and the shift from being constantly validated by clients and team members to caring for a little human who cannot yet communicate back. This honesty is powerful, because it highlights a struggle many business-owning mums experience but rarely speak about.

We hope this final instalment of the Motherhood Series leaves you feeling empowered, less alone, and reminded that motherhood doesn’t have to mean the end of your ambitions - it can actually expand what’s possible.

To follow our journey:
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In this episode of The Conscious Salon Podcast, we continue our Motherhood Series with a very special conversation that turns the microphone onto one of our own. I sit down with my sister and co-host, Nicola Pollock, to unpack her deeply personal journey into motherhood while simultaneously running a salon during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Nicola shares what it was like to give birth in 2020, a time of strict lockdowns, curfews, and immense uncertainty. From the surreal experience of walking up three flights of stairs in labour because lifts were closed, to having her partner escorted home by police after visiting her and their newborn, this story paints a vivid picture of what it meant to bring life into the world in extraordinary times.

But beyond the birth itself, we dive into the complexities of identity, responsibility, and leadership. Nicola speaks candidly about the tension between caring for her newborn son and carrying the weight of her business. She opens up about logging into her laptop just hours after giving birth, driven by a sense of responsibility to her team and clients. This raw honesty highlights how people-pleasing tendencies and leadership pressure can collide in ways that are both unsustainable and transformative.

Key Takeaways

One of the most powerful parts of Nicola’s story is her reflection on boundaries. She acknowledges the version of herself who prioritised everyone else’s needs above her own and her baby’s. Today, she approaches leadership and motherhood differently, with compassion for her past choices but clarity about what she would do differently now. This offers a powerful reminder that we can process difficult experiences, learn from them, and support others with the wisdom gained.

We also discuss the importance of community in raising children and running a business. Nicola shares how she and her partner consciously chose to embrace support networks, recognising that in Western culture we often try to parent in isolation when in reality raising children has always been a collective effort. This philosophy now guides the way she mentors other salon owners, encouraging them to release the pressure of “doing it all” and to invite in help - whether that’s family, friends, or chosen community.

This conversation is not just about motherhood - it’s about leadership, resilience, and the power of choosing differently. Nicola’s experience shows how we can grieve past decisions while still appreciating the lessons they bring. It’s a story of strength, adaptability, and redefining what it means to thrive as both a business owner and a parent.

We hope this episode reminds you that you’re not alone in navigating the juggle of motherhood and entrepreneurship, and that it’s possible to create a life where business and family not only coexist but thrive together.

To follow our journey:
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In this episode of the Conscious Salon Podcast, we welcome Tegan Mac, a leader in the beauty industry, to discuss her journey through balancing a thriving business and motherhood.

Tegan shares her personal experiences of pregnancy loss, the transition into motherhood, and how it has shaped her leadership style.

The episode also explores the importance of authenticity in the beauty profession and provides a heartfelt glimpse into the emotional and practical challenges of merging business responsibilities with family life.

To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

In this episode of The Conscious Salon, we had the absolute pleasure of sitting down with the powerhouse that is Martha Kourt - business owner, educator, and the creative force behind BODA. From the moment we began chatting, it was clear this was going to be a conversation that went far beyond surface-level business talk. We explored the mindset, strategy, and heart it takes to build a brand that not only succeeds but also truly reflects who you are.

Martha shared openly about her journey in the beauty industry, from the early days of stepping into business ownership to making bold moves that have shaped her into the leader she is today. She spoke about the importance of being intentional with every decision, trusting your vision even when it feels risky, and creating a business model that supports the life you actually want to live.

One of the biggest themes we unpacked was the power of leaning into your own leadership style, rather than trying to mould yourself into what you think a “successful” business owner should look like. Martha’s approach is a beautiful blend of strong systems, authentic client experiences, and a deep connection to her values - and it’s this combination that’s allowed her to grow a business she loves while still protecting her time and energy.

We also dove into the realities of running a team in the beauty space. Martha spoke candidly about how she sets expectations, supports her staff to grow, and holds the line when it comes to boundaries. Her perspective was a reminder that leadership isn’t about people-pleasing - it’s about creating a clear vision and guiding your team towards it with both strength and compassion.

The deeper takeaways from our chat with Martha

This conversation was a powerful reminder that big moves in business require both courage and clarity. It’s easy to get caught up in what everyone else in the industry is doing, but Martha’s story proves that staying anchored in your own lane will always get you further. We spoke about how crucial it is to understand the numbers in your business, set non-negotiables for your time, and say no to opportunities that don’t align - even if they look impressive on paper.

We were also reminded that you can’t grow a business you love if you’re running on empty. Martha’s approach to self-leadership - making time for her own development, wellbeing and creativity - was a lesson in sustainability. It’s not about burning yourself out to get results; it’s about building in a way that allows you to keep showing up for the long term.

How you can put this into action

If you’ve been feeling the pull to make a bold move in your business - whether that’s expanding, rebranding, restructuring your team, or simply reclaiming more time for yourself - this episode will give you the permission slip you’ve been waiting for. We encourage you to take some time after listening to reflect on where your business is currently in alignment with your values, and where it’s not.

Ask yourself:

If I were starting from scratch today, what would I do differently?
Where am I saying “yes” out of obligation rather than genuine excitement?
What boundaries do I need to set to protect my energy and creativity?

From there, choose one small but significant action you can take this week to move closer to the business you actually want. It might be a conversation with a team member, restructuring your schedule, or finally making that investment you’ve been putting off.

Why you’ll love this episode

Spending this time with Martha left us feeling energised, inspired, and reminded of why we started our own businesses in the first place - to create something that feels g

To follow our journey:
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@the_conscious_salon

In this episode of The Conscious Salon, we’re thrilled to be joined by someone who has been walking beside us in business and friendship for many years - Tamara Reid. You might know her from her incredible work as the Head of Partnerships at Timely, her deep involvement in the professional hair and beauty industry, or from her own thriving business journey.

This conversation is a raw and real look into what it actually means to navigate leadership, friendship and ambition as women - especially when you’re balancing it all in a trio. We spoke candidly about the power dynamics that come into play in both business and personal relationships, what can happen when a third energy shifts the flow, and how to honour your own role without feeling diminished by others around you.

We didn’t shy away from the big questions. What happens when you outgrow a partnership? How do you stay in your own lane when comparison creeps in? And what does it truly take to nurture friendships when business gets big, busy and bold?

What we unpacked with Tamara

This chat took us deep into the real challenges and beautiful breakthroughs of working alongside other women. Tamara was so open in sharing how she’s experienced different dynamics in partnerships and collaborations, and what she's learned about maintaining her own identity throughout it all.

We explored how common it is for women to compare themselves to others, especially in three-person relationships, and how that can quickly lead to self-doubt or even withdrawal. At the same time, we spoke about the growth that comes from recognising your triggers and leaning into vulnerability - rather than pulling away or shutting down.

What really struck us was Tamara’s wisdom around energetic capacity. She reminded us how important it is to check in with ourselves about how full our own cups are, and not take responsibility for the emotional states of others when we’re already stretched thin.

Why this conversation matters

As women in leadership, we often take on more than our fair share - whether that’s in emotional labour, people-pleasing, or dimming our light to make others comfortable. This episode is a reminder that it’s okay to take up space, to honour our boundaries, and to do the work required to grow through discomfort.

We left this conversation feeling seen, held, and deeply reflective - and we know it’ll have the same impact on so many of you who are navigating friendship, leadership and self-worth in this season.

Action Steps to Take After Listening

If any part of this episode resonated with you, we invite you to take a moment to reflect on the dynamics in your own relationships - whether personal or professional. Are there places where you’ve felt yourself shrink to make others more comfortable? Are there conversations you’ve been avoiding out of fear of disrupting the flow?

Take some time to journal or voice note your thoughts. What role do you often play in group dynamics? The peacekeeper, the powerhouse, the one who stays quiet? There’s no right or wrong - just an opportunity to get curious.

And if you’re feeling the nudge to have a heart-to-heart with someone close to you, let this episode be the prompt. It’s okay to take the first step toward clearing the air, resetting boundaries, or simply saying, “Hey, this matters to me.”

Key Insights We’re Taking With Us

We were reminded that comparison is often a symptom of disconnection - from ourselves. When we reconnect to our own values, our own journey, and our own truth, it becomes easier to celebrate others without questioning our own worth.

Tamara also spoke so beautifully about emotional availability and the importance o

To follow our journey:
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In this incredibly heartfelt episode of The Conscious Salon, we’re joined by someone who inspires us endlessly - Sheridan-Rose Shaw. Sheridan is the founder of Mama West, a creative leader, mentor, entrepreneur and now, a beautiful new mum. We’ve wanted to have this conversation with her for so long, and the timing couldn’t have been more perfect.

We speak honestly about what it’s really like to navigate the early days of motherhood while running a business and leading a team. Sheridan shares so openly about her personal experiences - her healing birth journey, the early postpartum chapter, and how her identity has evolved through this huge life transformation. She gives us an intimate look into how she’s learning to lead with softness, presence and trust.

Throughout the episode, we explore the deeper shifts that happen when we become mothers, particularly how that impacts the way we show up in leadership and in life. Sheridan reflects on what it means to honour our own capacity, release the pressure to be all things to all people, and embrace the very real duality of being both a mama and a CEO.

We also unpack the way hustle culture has shaped our expectations as business owners and how she’s consciously redefining what success looks like now. This is a raw, moving, and grounded conversation about identity, womanhood, surrender, and the sacredness of slowing down.

What we loved most about this conversation

What we took away from this chat is that we don’t need to ‘bounce back’ - we get to evolve. There’s no single right way to do motherhood or business. We’re allowed to change. We’re allowed to ask for help. And we’re allowed to prioritise our peace.

Sheridan reminded us how important it is to carve out space to be truly present - not only with our children, but with ourselves. She’s an example of conscious leadership in action, and her story is one that will speak to any woman who’s ever wondered how she can hold both her ambition and her intuition at the same time.

A few takeaways we’re still sitting with

There is power in softness.
Boundaries are not walls - they’re reminders of what matters most.
You don’t have to hold it all alone.
Your evolution doesn’t need to be justified.

A gentle nudge if you’re navigating your own shift

If you’re in a season of transition - whether that’s motherhood, a business pivot, or something personal - this episode is a beautiful reminder that you’re not alone. Take a breath, ask for what you need, and trust that you’re allowed to honour your own rhythm.

To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

In this episode of The Conscious Salon, we’re diving deep into one of the most important - and often overlooked - areas of salon success: team productivity during downtime. We’ve all been there - appointments shift, cancellations pop up, and before you know it, there’s an unexpected gap in the day. Instead of letting those moments drag you into a low-energy spiral, we’re here to flip the narrative and show you how to transform downtime into opportunity.

We share what we’ve learned from years in the industry (and from a few of our own doom spirals), and how we now lead our team at Ahead with a completely different mindset - one rooted in intention, empowerment and ownership.

This is the episode every salon or clinic owner needs to hear.

In this episode, we unpack:

Why downtime is one of the most under-utilised opportunities in the salon industry
The damaging mindset of seeing cancellations as lost time
How to shift your team from frustration to focus
Our go-to productivity strategy (P.U.D.O.T.)
Simple ways to keep team morale high even on quiet days
Why mindset and language matter in how we show up during gaps
How to motivate a creative team through collaboration, education and energy

Action Steps You Can Take Today:

1. Create a P.U.D.O.T. List
Start by building a Productive Use of Downtime (P.U.D.O.T.) list. This can include tasks like:

Role playing client consults or salon tours
Learning a new technical skill from a team member
Watching educational content with intention
Updating systems or scripts
Offering to support another team member

2. Reframe the Moment
When a cancellation happens, pause and ask:

What impact can I make in the next 20 minutes?
What opportunity is this giving me to grow or support my team?

3. Role Play Regularly
Yes, they feel awkward at first - but role plays are one of the fastest and most effective ways to improve communication, confidence and client experience.

4. Encourage Peer Learning
Let team members observe one another, give feedback and build each other up. It creates a culture of growth and reduces stagnation.

5. Keep the Vibe High
Downtime doesn’t have to be low vibe. Get creative. Collaborate. Learn together. Make it fun and energising.

Key Takeaways:

Productivity isn’t about being busy - it’s about being intentional.
Downtime is only wasted if you let it be.
Culture is shaped in the quiet moments as much as the busy ones.
Motivation is something we can create - we don’t have to wait for it.
As leaders, we can model how to turn slow times into valuable growth.

To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

Welcome to a transformative episode of the Conscious Salon podcast, where we explore the powerful theme of financial independence and empowerment for women. In a world where societal norms often dictate financial roles, we challenge these conventions and encourage women to embrace their financial ambitions unapologetically.

Join us as we share personal stories, practical tips, and insights to help you navigate your journey to financial freedom. Whether you're a business owner or an employee, this episode is packed with valuable advice to empower you to take control of your financial destiny.

Tune in now and take the first step towards a financially empowered future!

To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
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In this episode of the Conscious Salon podcast, we dive into the challenges and growth opportunities for salon owners and leaders. We things off with some light-hearted banter about mum life and the chaotic attempts at recording the podcast. We reflect on past episodes and discuss the importance of embracing all versions of ourselves.

The highlight of the episode is our 'Leadership Archetype Quiz.' We guide you through a series of questions designed to help you identify whether you're a reactive, avoidant, or passive leader. Along the way, we share personal stories from our own leadership journeys - both the good and the not-so-good - and offer practical advice on how to improve.

You'll hear about real-life salon scenarios, like how to handle a team member's mistake, respond to negative reviews, and deal with staff calling in sick last minute. We even touch on the trials of enforcing salon policies and handling client disrespect towards team members.

After taking the quiz, we break down the results for each leadership archetype and provide actionable tips to help you become a more conscious leader. Whether you're a reactive leader who needs to learn to pause before reacting, an avoidant leader who needs to lean into discomfort, or a passive leader who needs to take ownership and communicate directly, we've got you covered.

We encourage you to DM us on Instagram to share your quiz results and commitment to change!

To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
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In this episode of The Conscious Salon Podcast, we dive into a conversation that every salon owner and team leader needs to hear - how to spot red flags in your team and what to do when they come up. If you've ever felt confused or blindsided by a team member’s behaviour, you're not alone. We’ve been there too.

After years in leadership, managing a range of personalities and navigating the ups and downs of salon culture, we’re sharing our biggest lessons when it comes to recognising behaviours that just aren’t aligned. From subtle signals like passive resistance to full-blown walkouts, we break down how red flags can show up - and why ignoring them only costs you more in the long run.

In this episode, we cover:

What red flag behaviours look like (even the sneaky ones)
The difference between a red flag team member and red flag behaviour
How some red flags are actually a sign of deeper misalignment
Why a high-performing culture can't afford passive leadership
How to move a red flag behaviour into green flag territory
The lessons we've learnt through our own leadership mistakes (yes, even the time one of us got flipped off)
And why our current team feels like the greenest of green flags

We also give you three powerful practical tips for how to consciously and calmly deal with team red flags - including exactly what to say, what not to do, and how to create space for accountability and change.

This episode is packed with leadership gold, real stories, and a few laughs (including a throwback to Faulty Towers and some classic Simpsons references). But more importantly, it’s a reminder that red flags are not the end of the road - they’re your invitation to lead differently.

Key Takeaways:

Don’t ignore the signs: subtle red flag behaviours (like team members throwing others under the bus or being outwardly agreeable but quietly resistant) are just as important to address as the big ones.
You can turn red into green: with the right feedback and structure, some red flag team members can become your biggest allies.
Passive leadership costs culture: addressing misalignment directly (and early) helps build stronger, more resilient teams.
Team harmony comes from values alignment, not just surface-level niceties.
Our growth as leaders often sits on the other side of the most uncomfortable conversations.

Action Steps:

Pause Before You React: When you spot a red flag, take a breath. Don’t lead from emotion - lead from intention.
Call It In, Not Just Out: Address the behaviour with clarity. Use real examples and link it back to your team values.
Have the Alignment Conversation: Ask the question - “Do we need to talk about whether this is still aligned for both of us?”
Support With Accountability: Red flag doesn’t mean red card. Give team members the space to reflect and shift.
Keep Leading Consciously: Our job is to create space for greatness - and that often starts with getting uncomfortable first.

Loved this episode?

Please share it with another salon owner, subscribe and leave us a 5-star review. It helps more conscious leaders find us and join this conversation. And remember: red flags don’t mean failure - they’re a call to evolve.

To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
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In this very special episode, we recorded live from our annual Ahead Retreat – a two-day immersive mindset experience where we take our team out of the salon and into a dedicated space for growth, connection, and transformation.

Every year, we press pause on the day-to-day and create space for our team to connect, reflect, and elevate. This retreat is not a reward – it’s a crucial part of our culture and the foundation of a conscious, connected, and high-performing team.

In this episode, we sat around the table at the retreat and spoke openly with our team about their breakthroughs, their reflections, and what this experience really meant to them. From emotional release in breathwork sessions to the profound impact of being seen and celebrated by their peers, this episode is a raw, heartfelt reminder of why investing in your people changes everything.

What We Covered in This Episode:

Why we host an immersive team retreat every year – and why it's essential, not optional
Behind-the-scenes insights from our team members on what really happens during the retreat
Deep emotional breakthroughs through breathwork, emotional release, and love letter exercises
What it means to truly be seen, supported, and safe in your workplace
The transformational impact of vulnerability, both as a team member and a leader
Reflections from new and seasoned team members alike – including what surprised them most
The real reason your team needs more than a paycheque to thrive
Why trust, open communication, and personal growth matter more than ever
Our gratitude for doing this work – and why it’s worth prioritising, even when it feels hard to make time

Real Stories From Our Team:
Hear directly from our incredible team members – from 18-year-old Ava attending her first-ever retreat to senior team leader Taya reflecting on leadership and vulnerability. Every story is unique, and every breakthrough offers inspiration for those wanting to lead from a place of heart, intention, and impact.

Key Takeaway:
You don't need to wait until a crisis to start building connection with your team. Start now. Prioritise their growth, invest in spaces for them to show up as themselves, and the reward – for them, your business, and your leadership – will be immeasurable.

Resources Mentioned:

Breathwork practices
The Opal app for digital wellbeing
Personal anchoring tools used in The Conscious Salon framework
Financial goal setting and systems for personal empowerment

Next Step for Leaders:
If you’re a salon owner, team leader, or small business founder – this is your reminder that transformation doesn’t come from KPIs and policies alone. People need connection. They need clarity. They need to feel safe, supported, and seen. And retreats like these are how we make that real.

To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

In this episode of The Conscious Salon, we’re pulling back the curtain on a topic that continues to come up in our community and coaching sessions - hiring. More specifically, we’re 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 who’s technically skilled. But we’ve learnt that it’s far more nuanced. We believe hiring is one of the most energetically demanding (and misunderstood) elements of business. And in today’s conversation, we unpack why that is and what needs to change.

Here’s what we explore:

Why the hiring process isn’t just about the candidate - it’s about you
How your internal state and expectations impact the quality of your hires
The subconscious stories that may be holding you back from finding the right fit
What to look for beyond a résumé (and why energy alignment matters more)
Why we don’t recommend hiring just to “fill a gap”
How to interview in a way that feels human, aligned and clear
The importance of knowing your values, standards and boundaries before hiring
Our approach to nurturing a strong, connected, and invested team

We also share examples from our own experience at Ahead Hair - where we’ve 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 you’re clear on that, the right people will feel it.

This episode is for you if:

You’ve struggled to find team members who “get it”
You’ve hired someone quickly only to regret it later
You feel emotionally drained by the hiring process
You’re questioning how to build a team that lasts
You want to shift from reactive hiring to intentional leadership

Our 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 you’re ready to shift the way you hire, lead and grow - reach out to us.

To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

In this episode of The Conscious Salon, we’re diving deep into the idea of personal responsibility and exploring how often we carry things that aren’t 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 aren’t ours to fix.

This conversation is all about understanding choice - the choices we have in how we respond, support and carry emotion. Because here’s the thing: just because someone tells us they’re not happy, doesn’t mean we’re 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 feel
How to support someone without taking on their emotional load
The common trap salon owners fall into with unhappy team members
Why you’re not responsible for your team’s (or clients’) happiness
The link between emotional labour and burnout
How to ask the right questions instead of fixing everything
Three practical strategies to start letting go of what’s not yours

We also share what’s helped us navigate these patterns in our own lives and business - and how it’s changed the way we lead our teams and families.

This episode is for you if:

You’re a salon owner who struggles with boundaries
You’ve ever felt guilty for saying no or putting yourself first
You feel emotionally drained from carrying everyone else’s “stuff”
You want tools to help you show up with compassion and protect your energy
You’re ready to stop over-functioning for others

Our 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? Don’t 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 doesn’t make you selfish - it makes you sustainable.

To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

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 we’ve 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 happened—especially during the “love notes” session (yes, we all cried).
How rest, space and intentional connection can completely revive not only our minds, but our capacity as leaders.

You’ll 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 doing—it often comes from the stillness.

Whether you’re 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

In today’s episode, we sat down with the incredible Kate Slater, a CFO and accountant who’s not only brilliant with numbers, but also so down-to-earth and passionate about empowering business owners — 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 — this episode is for you.

What we cover in this episode:

What to do if your relationship with your accountant isn’t great
A super simple tax planning hack you can do yourself
How to separate business and personal money (and why it matters so much)
Salary vs drawings — and how to decide what’s right for you
The magic of paying yourself regularly (even when it feels hard!)
Why you MUST bank your cash — and how not doing it might be holding you back
How business structure affects your tax, your asset protection, and your future
What to do if you feel “financially stuck” — and how to start turning things around today
And yes... we even talked about the “breakup convo” with your accountant 🙈

Biggest takeaways:

You don’t need to be perfect with money — just consistent
Even if you’re behind or in debt, there is always a path forward
Respecting your money = respecting your time, energy, and future
Building wealth starts with being honest with your numbers (even the uncomfortable ones)

🔗 Connect with Kate Slater:

Follow Kate on Instagram: @kateslatercfo
Visit her website: www.camtechslater.com.au

If 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 — and remember, your business thrives when you thrive. 💛

To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

In this episode of The Conscious Salon, we go deep into the real emotional landscape that comes with running a salon – 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 – 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 it’s 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 – whether you’re a salon owner or a team member.

In this episode, we discuss:

Why guilt is such a common thread in salon leadership
The link between guilt and people pleasing
The stories we tell ourselves around delegation and support
How guilt shows up in micromanagement
The power of letting others help you (and how that helps them too)
Three actionable tools to shift your guilt mindset today
How to reframe moments of guilt as growth opportunities

Your 3 Conscious Guilt Tools:

Say less – resist the urge to overexplain when you feel guilty
Ask yourself: would I expect someone else to feel guilty in this same situation?
Look for the opportunity – 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 – we love hearing your stories and supporting you through them.

To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

This episode is one that’s 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 doesn’t just impact you, but how it creates a ripple effect on the people around you. Mum shared what it’s been like watching us grow into this business, step outside our comfort zones (ice baths included 🥶), and how that’s inspired her to step into her own growth in quieter, meaningful ways.

We talk about the legacy of our incredible grandfather and how proud he’d be of the business we’ve built as sisters. There’s also a beautiful moment where Mum shares a message for all of the salon owners and women in our industry—those who are doing it all, often without enough support. It’s 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 mum’s “pint of wine” 🍷 moment).

This one’s 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 you’re in.

To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

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 they’ve chosen to show up as leaders without losing themselves in the process.

If you’re 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 workplace
Why the old idea of “leave your stuff at the door” is outdated and unrealistic
What it means to hold space consciously - with both compassion and personal boundaries
The exact steps Nicola takes when a team member arrives visibly distressed
How to avoid absorbing your team’s energy while still being a supportive leader

This 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 You’ll Learn

Why silence, presence and confidentiality are foundational to trust
How to respond with empathy without trying to "fix" someone’s situation
The importance of private debriefing versus collective problem-solving
What it means to be a conscious leader in 2025
How to cultivate safe spaces where people feel seen and supported — not judged

Whether 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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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 – 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

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

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

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

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 passion—hairdressing—and 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

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 mentors—covering business, mindset, nutrition, and even credit card points—helping 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

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

In this deeply emotional episode of The Conscious Salon podcast, we dive into our personal experiences with loss and grief, sharing stories of loved ones who have passed away and the impact of those events on our lives. Tess discusses the emotional challenges of losing her best friend Allie, while Nicky opens up about her experience with pregnancy loss. We reflect on how these traumatic moments have shaped us and the importance of taking time to process grief and hold space for oneself. By sharing our stories, we hope to provide insight, support, and comfort to those who might be going through similar situations.

To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

In this episode of The Conscious Salon podcast, hosts Nicola and Tessa embark on a discussion about the importance of setting boundaries, particularly in the context of managing a salon. They discuss their own experiences with having leaky boundaries, the evolution of their management style, and how they’ve achieved a balance that benefits both their professional and personal lives. The episode offers valuable insights and practical tips for salon owners and anyone struggling to establish healthy boundaries in a work environment.

To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

In this episode of The Conscious Salon Podcast, hosts Nicola and Tessa discuss setting their words for 2025. They explore the significance of these words and how they plan to implement them in their lives. They also express gratitude for the journey of self-discovery and shared experiences. The episode concludes by encouraging listeners to find their own words for the year.

To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

In this episode of The Conscious Salon Podcast, Nicky and Tess share insights into their new split roster system, stories from their salon, and reflections on the mental load carried by women. The hosts also emphasise the importance of maintaining professional boundaries and focus on providing exceptional client experiences, particularly through holding space and addressing clients’ needs. They conclude with a reflection on personal growth and the importance of balancing personal and professional lives.

To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

In this episode of The Conscious Salon podcast, Nicola and Tess guide listeners through part two of their reflection and intention-setting series for 2025. They invite listeners to find a comfortable space and engage deeply with ten prompts aimed at enhancing their salon's values, client experience, leadership, teamwork, efficiency, and overall achievement by the end of 2025. The episode concludes by encouraging listeners to choose a word to embody their aspirations for the year and share their goals for added accountability. Follow their journey on Instagram for more insights and updates.

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 and Tessa guide salon and clinic owners through a reflective journey of the year 2024. They then introduce a series of ten reflective prompts aimed at evaluating accomplishments, growth, challenges, leadership, and gratitude throughout the year. Listeners are encouraged to find a comfortable space, gather their journals, and participate in this introspective exercise. The episode is sponsored by Revlon Professional Australia.

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 and Tessa delve deep into their reflections and biggest lessons of the year, including the importance of alignment, understanding ego, effective communication, and the transformative power of curiosity over reactivity. Personal anecdotes and professional insights highlight the significance of these lessons in both business and personal development

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 Nikki and Tess delve into a reflective discussion about their leadership styles, focusing on the evolution of their approach to managing their team and business. They emphasise the importance of gratitude, support, and accountability in fostering a positive work environment. The episode ends with a heartfelt acknowledgment of their team, producers, and partners for their unwavering support throughout the year.

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 Tessa discuss the importance of enforcing cancellation policies in the salon business. They reflect on the balance needed between holding firm to policies and showing compassion for clients facing extreme circumstances. The hosts share personal experiences and practical tips on how to address last-minute cancellations and no-shows while maintaining professional standards.

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 Tessa and Nicola discuss the importance of managing expectations for both job seekers and employers. They delve into an in-depth guide on conducting interviews at The Conscious Salon, including their structured approach to phone interviews, in-person interviews, and skills tests. The hosts share valuable tips for making candidates feel at ease, understanding their motivations, and articulating business values. They also emphasize the importance of patience and a careful vetting process to find the right team members.

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 Tessa dive deep into essential tips on improving salon culture and teamwork. Through empowering leadership, collaboration, maintaining consistency, engaging in activities outside the salon, and personal understanding, the hosts offer five key strategies to foster a supportive and cohesive salon environment.

To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative

In this lively episode of The Conscious Salon podcast, the hosts provide practical tips for salon owners and entrepreneurs to stay calm and grounded during the busy holiday season. The episode highlights strategies such as meal prepping, intention setting, and taking nature breaks to ensure both personal and team well-being.

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 back a special guest, Tae, who previously worked at the salon and has now returned to Melbourne. They discuss the difficult yet rewarding journey of rejoining the team, the importance of setting boundaries to prevent burnout, and how conscious self-care can significantly impact both personal and professional life. The conversation also touches on adjusting to life changes, both big and small, and highlights the deep connections and mutual support within their team. The episode ends with expressions of gratitude and a reminder of the importance of staying present and taking care of oneself, especially as the busy season approaches.

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 Nicky and Tess delve into a wide range of topics, from the physical and emotional challenges of pregnancy to the significance of conscious leadership and mentorship. They respond to listener feedback, including a heartfelt message from someone transformed by their leadership training. Nicky and Tess explore overcoming fear-based leadership, the value of apologising, and the normalcy of challenging weeks in business. They emphasise the importance of mental health, self-care, and the growth that comes from embracing vulnerability and emotional release. Through candid reflections and expressions of gratitude, the hosts showcase the impact of their guidance on fostering authentic and conscious leadership.

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 Nicky and Tess delve into the powerful impact of language and intention in the workplace, emphasising the shift from a sales-focused mindset to one of education. Through personal stories and industry examples, they illustrate how changing the language and energy around selling can motivate teams and foster a more positive, supportive environment. Leadership, team dynamics, and celebrating small wins are highlighted as key components for personal and professional development.

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 Nicky and Tess present a special team development activity inspired by the Life Ahead Program. Tess guides listeners through a series of impactful journal prompts designed to foster team connection, vulnerability, and personal growth. Sponsored by Revlon Professional, this episode provides a useful tool for enhancing team development days, building deeper relationships, and promoting self-awareness.

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 Tess and Nicky reconnect after a hiatus, sharing anecdotes from their recent experiences, including Nikki's family trip to Bali. They discuss the importance of leadership in salon management, introducing their new six-week course, The Conscious Leader Container. They detail the course's structure, modules, and targeted audience, emphasizing its suitability for various roles within the salon environment. Nicky and Tess also address frequently asked questions about the course, stressing its self-paced nature, lifetime access, and availability of payment plans. The episode wraps up with expressions of gratitude and encouragement for listeners to invest in their personal and professional growth.

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 and Tessa discuss their experiences at the local Business Awards, where they humorously recount their anticipation and eventual disappointment at not winning the Innovation Award. The episode covers their views on the importance of community recognition and maintaining focus on personal business goals despite external validation.

To follow our journey:
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@the_conscious_salon

This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative

In this episode of the Conscious Salon Podcast, hosts Nicola and Tessa, focus on the importance of taking holidays for business owners, real talk about work-life balance, and ensuring effective delegation. Tessa provides valuable tips on how to truly switch off during a holiday and the hosts reflect on their growth, role in their businesses, and maintaining peace of mind while away from work.

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 Tessa delve into the definitions of success, emphasising personal values, financial freedom, and overcoming societal expectations, particularly for women. Tessa and Nicola encourage listeners to reflect on what success means to them, urging them to live authentically and without fear of judgment. This episode is a blend of profound insights and empowerment for personal growth.

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 Tessa delve into the challenge of comparison in business, particularly when a new competitor salon opens nearby. They share personal anecdotes, discuss strategies for focusing on one's own strengths, and emphasise the importance of developing self-trust. With insightful tips on business pricing and staying true to one's values, this episode offers a mix of humour and practical advice. Join Nicola and Tessa as they explore how to navigate comparison, enhance business practices, and cultivate a supportive industry environment.

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 and Tess record from Cairns while attending the Revlon Professional Client Conference. Highlights include discussing fashion designer Alexandra Smart's keynote on balancing creativity and logistics in business, and an inspiring talk by Olympic gold medalist Steven Bradbury about perseverance. The hosts also dive into the exciting product announcements from Revlon and their participation in a salon owners' panel.

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 delve into Tess' personal experience of pregnancy while managing their dual businesses. Tess candidly shares the emotional roller coaster of conceiving after months of trying, balancing the demands of business, and the decision to not breastfeed. She expresses gratitude for the support from her partner Mick and loved ones. The discussion also includes practical tips on managing expectations, slowing down, and trusting one's instincts.

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 and Tess discuss their personal triggers and how they manage them. They explore the importance of self-awareness and personal development in acknowledging and overcoming these triggers. Through personal anecdotes and examples from their professional lives, they provide insights on how to approach triggers both within oneself and in interacting with others. The episode also touches on their experiences in the beauty industry and the significance of supportive communities. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their own triggers and embrace personal growth.

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 introduce a 10-minute gratitude meditation tailored specifically for professionals in the hair, beauty, and aesthetics industry.

Designed to help business owners and team members refocus and return to a place of gratitude, this meditation emphasizes the unique, sacred role that beauty professionals play in creating safe spaces for their clients.

Listeners are encouraged to find a comfortable space, focus on their breathing, and appreciate the profound impact they have on others.

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, Nic and Tess dive deep into their personal transformative journeys. They candidly discuss overcoming unconscious habits such as alcohol and food dependency, promiscuity, and smoking. They share practical tips on cultivating consciousness, addressing internal work, and breaking unhealthy habits. Emphasis is placed on introspection, aligning actions with emotions, and the importance of mentorship and accountability.

To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative

Ever feel overwhelmed by the competitive nature of business? Our "Hot Girl Hotline" segment brings you strategies to block out external negativity and stay laser-focused on your goals. We share personal stories about our unique money mindsets—scarcity versus avoidance—and how they influence our approaches to maintaining positivity in a business setting. Learn the importance of embodying a positive mindset and the tricks to staying in your own lane, even when the external noise gets loud.

Finally, we offer practical tips on turning unexpected challenges into opportunities for growth. Discover how mental filtration can prevent negative influences from overshadowing your progress. Whether it's engaging with clients through social media or using downtime for professional development, we share actionable strategies to navigate business hurdles with resilience. Plus, we delve into the transformative power of in-house training and daily practices like journaling and affirmations to reinforce a healthy money mindset. Join us as we turn optimistic thinking into tangible success!

To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative

Have you ever faced the daunting task of renovating an outdated space? Join us on this week's Conscious Salon podcast, where we navigate the emotional highs and lows of a major salon transformation. From initial resistance to the final stunning reveal, witness the dynamic collaboration between Tess, Nic, and Hannah. Hannah’s interior design brilliance meets Tess’s meticulous tile selection and financial oversight. Expect strong opinions, humorous banter, and even a few surprises as the team works through the planning process. Plus, we discuss an innovative idea to offer exclusive Instagram content for our private clients, adding a unique twist to our services.

Lastly, brace yourself for an eye-opening financial review of the renovation project. Starting with an initial budget of $30,000 to $35,000, we break down costs from furniture expenses to the unexpectedly high price of rubbish removal. Despite not owning the building, the investment proves worthwhile, leading to increased client quality and satisfaction. Tune in for a detailed cost summary and hear how our commitment to creating a beautiful, functional space pays off.

To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative

Ever wondered how a single day can transform a team? Join us as we welcome back Lauren, a beloved client and friend, to recount her team's life-changing personal development day with The Conscious Salon. Through her heartfelt story, you'll hear about the immediate positive shifts in her salon's atmosphere and the incredible openness of her team to growth activities, even those who were new to self-development. Lauren's experience underscores the power of a unified, open-minded team ready to embrace change.

We also take a deep dive into the decade-long journey of a dedicated salon owner, who shares her personal and professional transformations. Discover how she built trust and embraced vulnerability, moving away from the need to be an "iron woman." From celebrating a decade in business to the serendipitous timing of her coaching journey coinciding with the birth of her daughter, Stella, this chapter is a testament to the resilience and passion that drive her success. It's a heartfelt reflection on what it takes to stay aligned with one’s purpose through life's many phases.

Finally, we explore the profound growth that arises from unexpected challenges. Loz opens up about her emotional journey of having a premature baby and the subsequent impact on her business dynamics. Despite the hurdles, her story is one of resilience, gratitude, and the transformative power of mentorship. Listen in to learn about the significant transformations in business management, team alignment, and the exciting plans for a major rebranding and renovation of the salon, promising a more aligned and thriving future.

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 as we chat about team goal-setting and accountability.

We share our strategies for keeping teams motivated and on track, emphasising the importance of continuous engagement and specific, measurable goals. Highlighting the SMART criteria and the value of regular one-on-one meetings, we provide actionable tips for fostering a productive and goal-oriented environment.

As we celebrate our 100th episode, we reflect on our growth in leadership and mentorship, and announce the reopening of our waitlist for new business mentoring clients. Don't miss this blend of humour, life lessons, and practical advice.

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 delve into one of our favourite topics: manifestation. Discover the powerful ways in which we’ve harnessed the art of manifestation to bring positive changes into our lives.

Manifesting success isn't just for the dreamers—it's for the doers too. In this episode, we share our personal journeys with manifestation, from early examples like school leadership roles to life-altering events influenced by a manifestation mentor. We discuss the significance of clarity, belief, and the techniques that have brought us everything from hotel upgrades to dream homes. Whether you're a sceptic or a believer, our stories and practical tips will inspire you to keep an open mind and positive spirit in your life and business endeavours. Tune in for an engaging blend of humour, heartfelt stories, and transformative insights.

To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative

Can stepping out of your comfort zone truly transform your team and business? Join us on an inspiring journey through the Conscious Salon Team Retreat in Main Ridge, Victoria, where we embraced growth, connection, and the power of immersive experiences. We dived headfirst into a series of activities designed to push boundaries and foster deep bonds among team members. Han shares her reflections on the importance of continuous engagement in such supportive environments, and how this retreat has left a lasting, positive impact on everyone involved.

Feel the energy and excitement as we recount moments of overcoming fears and embracing new experiences. Han opens up about her transition from anxiety and control to a mindset of surrender and openness, while Amelia takes us through her empowering first ice bath experience, set to the tune of "Don't Stop Believin'" by Journey. Relive the magic of the winter solstice celebration, the joy of dancing, and the camaraderie built through shared challenges. Natasha’s story of conquering her hesitations during the ice bath session underscores the transformative power of trust and supportive atmospheres.

Get practical insights on setting life values, breaking unhealthy cycles, and the importance of goal setting as shared by Jazzy. Discover how simple team bonding activities can build trust and significantly enhance team cohesion and productivity. We wrap up with thoughtful reflections on the profound impact of prioritizing team development, highlighted by heartfelt expressions of gratitude from a recent mental health retreat. This episode is a treasure trove of experiences and advice for anyone eager to foster personal and professional growth within their teams.

To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative

Ever wondered how a simple mindset shift can transform your life? Tune in as we dive into the transformative power of positive energy, both in business and personal life. Discover how consciously shifting our mindset and energy can significantly impact outcomes. By adopting a positive and intentional approach, we’ve learned to manifest better results and create supportive environments for our teams. We share personal anecdotes and practical tips on replacing negative thoughts with positive affirmations, turning obstacles into opportunities for growth.

Finally, we explore the profound impact of gratitude and respect, especially towards money. You’ll hear the inspiring journey of one of our clients who shifted her mindset towards financial abundance. By expressing gratitude for every gain and treating money with respect, she has overcome significant challenges and achieved a more fulfilling professional life.

To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative

In today's episode delve into handling emotional reactions in business. We share strategies for managing emotional responses and emphasise the power of empathy and compassion in fostering better communication and resolving conflicts. By reflecting on our own experiences, we highlight the importance of listening and being open to other perspectives. It’s an episode packed with laughter, personal stories, and valuable lessons on emotional intelligence.

To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative

We delve into personal journeys that reveal the importance of acknowledging the abundance that surrounds us, and how a mindset of gratitude can elevate a business from standard to exceptional.

As we respond to a listener's pressing question on client attraction, we uncover the profound impact that genuine client care has on loyalty and business growth. Rather than succumbing to the relentless 'hustle' culture, we discuss cultivating deep connections with existing clients, which can lead to a thriving word-of-mouth referral system. This episode isn't just a conversation; it's a celebration of the cultural practices that teach us to honour every transaction and the abundance mentality that can turn every challenge into a chance for prosperity and success. Join us for an inspiring journey through the heart of the salon world, where every treatment is more than a service—it's an experience.

To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative

Do long hours at your desk equate to true success? Grapple with this notion as we discuss redefining achievement in our lives.

Get ready to chuckle, nod in agreement, and maybe even have an 'aha' moment as we share personal tales that unravel the culture of busyness and the power of focused attention. We dissect our unconscious habits that devour time, like mindlessly scrolling through social media or feeling compelled to respond immediately to work emails. From the warmth of shared birthdays with loved ones to the wisdom of intentionally carving out time for what truly matters, this episode is your guide to mastering the art of productivity without sacrificing the richness of life's everyday moments.

To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative

In the bustling world of hair salons, listen up as we address the hot topic of discounts and policies in our 'Hot Girl Hotline' segment – where fairness and firm boundaries take center stage. We spill the tea on why friends and family pay full price, and how this approach secures the salon's integrity. Then, we pull back the curtain on team policies, from stretching color appointments for that lived-in look, to balancing employee perks with the salon's financial wellbeing. Get the lowdown on the importance of clear communication and explore how we cultivate a culture of respect and honesty among our staff – essential ingredients for any thriving business.

To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative

This episode is about the nitty-gritty of steering your business towards success. We get real about the pivotal role of team alignment and communication, and how crucial Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) are in propelling a company forward. If you're all about creating a powerful team dynamic, insightful growth tracking, and ensuring your business is financially fit, our conversation will give you the tools and inspiration to make it happen.

But wait, there's more! We don't just leave you with strategies, we also provide a blueprint for establishing crystal-clear client and financial policies in your business. From understanding your salon's break-even point to implementing robust money management systems, we cover it all. We reflect on the growth we've experienced and the profound sense of gratitude we hold for being able to uplift our listeners and the industry. Tune in for a heartwarming and strategy-packed episode that'll have you gearing up to transform your business practices.

To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative

The conversation shifts to darker tides as we discuss the onslaught of national violence against women epidemic. We open up about the struggle to maintain a sense of calm and direction amidst such turmoil, sharing strategies for anchoring ourselves amidst the storm.

We also touch on the power we hold within our personal bubbles to effect change, a reminder that even as the world's gravity weighs heavy, there's strength and purpose to be found in the actions we take every day.

In our final chapter, a more somber reflection is cast upon the issues of feminism and violence against women, an issue that continues unabated across communities and nations. We challenge the dismissive responses and instead call for a proactive stance among men to address this pervasive crisis. We are unyielding in our dedication to empowering women in business and beyond, using our platform to advocate for fundamental societal shifts. Gratitude wraps our conversation as we acknowledge the importance of these discussions for creating a future that's not only safe but ripe with opportunity for all women. Join us on this journey, where laughter meets earnestness, and where every voice becomes a beacon for change.

To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative

The journey from salon owners to business mentors has taught us that every question, no matter how odd, holds the potential for growth and insight, something we're eager to pass on to our mentees.

In the salon world, where creativity meets commerce, we've discovered that the right mindset can be as transformative as the snip of shears. We open up about our own evolution and the Life aHead program that sparked our mentoring passion. Join us as we share how we guide fellow salon owners towards a mindset of gratitude and opportunity, fostering personal growth alongside professional success. We're not just changing hair; we're changing lives, one business owner at a time.

To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative

You're invited to pull up a seat at the Conscious Salon for an episode that interweaves the joy of family, the complexity of leadership, and the eco-friendly innovation of salon life.

This episode is a deep dive into the heart of business management and leading a team to success. We explore how strong leadership is paramount in aligning a team with a company's vision, and why understanding KPIs can make or break your financial goals. Get ready to reflect on the entrepreneurial grind, as we share our journey from the allure of financial success to the stark realities of business ownership, all while delving into the necessity of pricing strategies and the importance of customer experience in the salon industry.

We round out the conversation with a focus on client experience, a four-key process essential for satisfaction and retention. As we peel back the curtain on our own salon's approach to solving client problems, we highlight the transformative power of structured team meetings and regular training. If you're looking to inspire your team without resorting to negative reinforcement, you'll find our stories on leadership and team building both instructive and uplifting. So, tune in, grab your notepad, and get prepared to be both entertained and enlightened!

To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative

As the hammers fell silent and the sawdust settled, we found ourselves amidst the transformed walls of our renovated salon, eager to peel back the curtain on our renovation escapade. Pull up a chair as we recount the mirthful mayhem that ensued while trading podcast mics for paintbrushes and power drills.

Navigating the labyrinth of a renovation project can be akin to a high-stakes treasure hunt, where X marks the spot, yet the map is a tad blurry. Pete, our project manager extraordinaire, charted our course through this tricky terrain, proving to be our unsung hero. We'll share pearls of wisdom about fostering goodwill with tradespeople (hint: never underestimate the power of a well-timed cuppa) and the robust collaboration that played a pivotal role in the salon's rebirth. From the camaraderie fostered over shared meals to last-minute adjustments that brought our vision to life, you'll get a front-row seat to the inner workings of our renovation odyssey.

Wrapping up, we'll reflect on the collective strength of our team, each member flexing their unique muscles to pull off this feat. Personal anecdotes about stepping back to let others shine and the artful dance of balancing responsibilities with the need for strategic planning pepper our conversation. With a dollop of humour and a generous sprinkle of heart, we celebrate the mindset shift and the aligned partnerships that saw us through the challenges - all solidified with the triumphant installation of those pesky mirrors. Join us on this transformative journey, where we lift the veil on how a space can be more than just a place - it can be the embodiment of a community, a culture, and a dream realised.

To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative

Are you petrified your team will leave you? When the winds of change sweep through a business, bringing with them the departure of team members, how do you stand firm and find the silver lining? We tackle this head-on by sharing our own experiences and the strategies we've employed to navigate these transitions with grace and optimism. Our latest episode is a heartfelt exploration of the emotional landscape that comes with farewells and the fresh horizons they can introduce, especially when we choose to approach these changes with gratitude and an open heart.

The journey of business is never without its challenges, yet it's the way we respond to these challenges that truly defines us. This week, we pull back the curtain on the emotional rollercoaster that accompanies the departure of teammates and business partners. Revelations about the importance of perspective shifting and maintaining open communication underscore how we can turn potential paralysis by fear into a driving force for growth. Our conversation pivots to the delicate balance within the service industry, offering practical advice for those struggling with the ebb and flow of client and team numbers.
We invite you to embrace optimism and self-trust when it comes to team moving on.

This is a great episode for anyone who struggles getting through team turnover.

To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative

This week on the The Conscious Salon Podcast, our 'Hot Girl Hotline' turns heartfelt when a listener reaches out, feeling unmoored in their quest for self-discovery. Like a gentle embrace, we share the commonality of this struggle, offering a compass of perspective and empathy for those moments when life feels like uncharted territory. We invite you on a reflective journey, emphasizing the importance of finding steadiness within ourselves during the tides of life. Delving into the practice of journaling, we explore how the written word can be a lantern in the fog, illuminating the path to self-trust and authenticity.

As the conversation meanders into the art of living consciously, we peel back the curtain on life's simple pleasures. We unravel the misconception that life's tapestry must be woven with grand, sweeping strokes by a certain age, instead cherishing the intricate patterns of daily contentment. Entwined with personal anecdotes and the wisdom of embracing the present, we weave a narrative of fulfillment that defies societal pressures, advocating for a life sculpted by joy in the mundane and the courage to follow one's unique rhythm. Join us, and let's celebrate the rich, complex journey of life together. This is a great episode for anyone who is feeling stuck and unmotivated currently.

To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative

Ever been caught in a fit of giggles while sitting in the most luxurious hotel suite, surrounded by your closest friends? That's exactly where our adventure begins this episode, as Rache Mahon owner of Pearl & Sage in Bendigo, Nic and Tess reminisce about the hijinks of our Melbourne trip for International Women's Day. We're not just recounting the laughs and unexpected sights from our presidential digs, though; we're diving deep into the magic of sisterhood and how these bonds shape our lives, work, and the way we celebrate our achievements.

Strap in for a candid talk about the complexities of evolving business roles – from those personal client interactions to trusting your team with the reigns. It's a narrative many leaders face, and we're pulling back the curtain on how open dialogue and a sprinkle of courage can lead to a seamless transition that keeps everyone's confidence intact. Picture your clients as passengers on a smooth flight, with your team as the skilled pilots – we'll explore the training and trust it takes to make that happen.

The heart of this episode beats to the rhythm of personal growth and strategic entrepreneurship. We unpack the emotional suitcase that comes with handing over day-to-day tasks to focus on steering the ship towards new horizons. It's about finding that sweet spot where work-life balance isn't just a buzzword, but a lived experience. From nurturing handovers to empowering your team, we're sharing the blueprint to maintain excellence and embrace change, all while keeping your community of clients and colleagues thriving. Join us for an honest conversation that's as uplifting as it is insightful.

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To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative

Discover the transformative power of team dynamics as we share heartfelt tales from our Conscious Salon family, where values like education, growth, community, and mindfulness aren't just words, but the pillars of our everyday life. Embracing the spirit of International Women's Day, we delve into rich discussions that go beyond the superficial, into the depths of personal development. Listen as we journey with our team at aHead: Amelia, Jazzy, Tash and Hannah through the revelations of our Life aHead Day.

Feel the unity as we recount the laughter and triumphs from our team-building escape room escapade, proving that pressure can indeed forge diamonds – or at the very least, stronger bonds and shared leadership. Through each locked door and solved riddle, we're reminded that the true essence of teamwork lies in authenticity and shared experiences. Our salon's culture thrives on these very moments, where vulnerability becomes our strength, and a supportive environment is not just a goal but a reality we live and breathe.

Whether you're a salon or clinic owner looking to foster a nurturing space or simply someone seeking inspiration for creating powerful, authentic connections, this discussion is a gentle reminder of the profound effect our shared humanity has on both professional teams and the communities they serve. Join us for this deep dive into what makes our salon not just a workplace, but a home.

To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative

Have you ever faced a moment that called for a resounding 'no', yet found yourself saying 'yes' just to avoid discomfort? Our latest episode reveals why embracing your truth can be the most liberating decision you'll ever make. We delve into personal testimonials from our Conscious Salon Retreat, highlighting the joy and empowerment found in aligning with one's deepest values and the transformative impact of setting healthy boundaries. Together, we uncover the art of crafting an ideal life with intention, manifestation, and aligned action that resonates with our innermost desires.

The healing power of breathwork takes center stage in our second segment, where we explore its capability to unlock deeply held emotions. The collective energy of our retreat participants amplified the emotional release, providing a space for unfiltered expression. We also investigate how physical challenges like ice baths can serve as catalysts for personal growth, offering a fresh perspective on embracing openness and vulnerability as key components of one's transformative journey.

Rounding out this episode, we wrap up with heartfelt stories of vulnerability and self-love from two of our retreat attendees. Their experiences with therapy dogs and ice baths unearthed profound emotional responses and self-discoveries. Our community shares a collective gratitude for the bonds formed, the personal growth achieved, and the empowering realization that investing in one's well-being can have an immeasurable impact on our lives and those around us. Join us for this intimate look into a space where gratitude and self-empowerment flourish, and life-long memories are made.

To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative

Ever felt like you're on a carousel, spinning with the daily grind but craving a touch of real connection and a splash of personal growth? That's precisely where we took our private clients, Lauren and Jasmine, on a whirlwind journey at the Conscious Business Retreat, and let me tell you, it was nothing short of a transformative ride. Our latest podcast episode peeks behind the curtain, revealing how these dynamic entrepreneurs from New South Wales and Victoria salons respectively, stepped into their vulnerabilities, shared laughs about love in the age of Tinder, and emerged with powerful insights on nurturing their inner best friends.

As the laughter settled and the deep conversations began, we found ourselves in the midst of stark realizations and raw emotions. Lauren and Jasmine, alongside our other guests, braved the deep waters of self-reflection, where standing still is indeed a choice and where confronting inner critics can lead to empowering one's self. Our retreat wasn't just about business growth; it was a sanctuary for personal development, a space where we embraced the discomfort of vulnerability to foster genuine connections and a sense of being understood by fellow travelers on the entrepreneurial path.

Wrapping up this episode, we explore the importance of community support for personal and emotional growth, and how essential it is to face one's emotions head-on. I share a slice of my own journey, including the transformative power of journaling and the liberating sensation of being seen and heard. Lauren and Jasmine's stories are a testament to the idea that through authenticity and vulnerability, we can feel lighter and more at peace. So, tune in and allow yourself to be inspired by the beauty and bravery of embracing your full self, both in life and in business.

To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative

Ever been on a work trip where everything that could go wrong did, only to end up with some of the best memories with your colleagues? That’s precisely what went down with our belated Christmas getaway in regional Victoria. The universe threw us curveballs - a missing keypad, a power outage, and a cider-seltzer mix up - but we managed to turn it into a comedy of errors that ended in a weekend of celebration and team bonding. And let's not forget that one social media slip that revealed our surprise destination. It's a reminder that sometimes, the journey is just as important as the destination, especially when it's paved with laughter and good company.

Wrapping up, we explore the transformative power of evolving from purely fun gatherings to meaningful experiences that resonate deeply with our company's ethos and our team's diverse needs. We believe in the magic of vulnerability and communication, in crafting team bonding activities that are inclusive and engaging for every member, including those with families or sensory sensitivities. It's about more than just a good time; it's about enriching lives and strengthening our collective spirit. Tune in for an episode filled with chuckles, insights, and a deep sense of gratitude for the journey of mentorship and teamwork that we share at The Conscious Salon.

To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative

Trust and positive energy aren't just buzzwords; they're the cornerstones of our lively discussion as we uncover their crucial role in our lives. We're sharing the wisdom gained from seeking mentorship, trusting in ourselves when facing doubt, and the magic that happens when we channel our energy into life's positive aspects. Listen as we recount tales of conscious leadership and the compelling shift that happens when we focus on the good - a powerful reminder that the direction of our attention can truly shape our realities.

Relationships can be a dance of loyalty and alignment, and in this episode, we navigate that intricate waltz. It's all about the subtle art of feeling in sync with others, recognizing the red flags of misalignment, and making peace with the natural end of friendships. We're talking about the importance of standing by your values, knowing when to step back gracefully, and the strength that comes from self-awareness and authenticity. Wrap up the chat with us as we reflect on gratitude, personal growth, and the liberating practice of detaching with love, all the while staying true to our own path amid life's symphony.

To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative

Have you ever mixed up 'dinner coupes' with something else entirely, or accidentally scratched a family heirloom and braced for the fallout? Join us from our parents' homestead, where these anecdotes are just the tip of the iceberg in an episode brimming with humor, warmth, and the occasional burst into karaoke. We reminisce about our special childhood secret knocks, and marvel at the unexpected early return of power post-storm, all while nestled in the nostalgic embrace of family.

When a mini cyclone took Melbourne by surprise, it wasn't just the city that felt the brunt; our very own Salon was thrust into darkness. But as the lights went out, our team's spirits shone brightly, showcasing an incredible aptitude for problem-solving and resilience. We recount how the storm brought us closer together, reinforcing the bonds within our community and highlighting the importance of laughter, even in the darkest of times. Listen in as we share tales of leadership and the power of vulnerability, which proved to be the unsung heroes amidst the chaos.

We reflect on the power of vulnerability and trust within a team, especially during crises. The episode showcases our salon team's extraordinary capacity to handle pressure with poise, earning them the title of 'rock stars'. Whether you're a salon owner or just someone who appreciates a good story about authenticity and connection, there are lessons to be learned and laughter to be had in this rollercoaster ride of an episode.

To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative

Ever find yourself at a crossroads in your professional life, wondering how to merge personal values with team dynamics? Our beloved Hannah from Conscious Salon joins us and unpacks the art of realignment within a team, sharing nuggets of wisdom that every business owner and team member should take to heart. The conversation quickly delves into the meatier matters of team alignment, as Hannah offers a unique lens on the environmental hurdles that can skew a team's compass.

The dialogue shifts gears as we confront the elephant in the room – leadership accountability. It's a raw look at the missteps we've made and a collective pledge to not only own them but to learn from them, strengthening the bonds within our salon. Hannah's candid reflections become a beacon, illuminating the path to those courageous conversations we sometimes skirt around. These exchanges aren't just talk; they're the foundation for a thriving workplace culture, one where every voice is heard and every challenge is an opportunity for unity and jubilation in our shared mission. Tune in, and be inspired to cultivate an environment where authenticity and passion are the cornerstones of your team's success.

To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative

Vulnerability might just be the superpower you didn't know you needed, both in your personal life and at work. We crack open the lid on this complex topic through our Hot Girl Hotline, offering advice on how to wield this strength without fear of seeming weak. Personal stories of how upbringing influenced my emotional journey and the profound transition sparked by the loss of Tess' soulmate, lay the foundation for a candid conversation about why fostering a supportive environment where emotions are shared is paramount.

Wrapping up, we wade into the deeper waters of leadership, drawing from our own experiences with emotional transparency in front of our team. It's about setting an example, not apologising for genuine feelings, and creating space for others to do the same. As we close, the focus shifts to relationships, where embodying the qualities we seek and practicing gratitude can transform how we connect with others. It's an episode rich with laughter, wisdom, and a few heartfelt tears, all in the pursuit of living and leading with authenticity.

To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative

From the cozy confines of a home salon to the bustling energy of Louka Hair, Lou's journey is nothing short of awe-inspiring. Join us for an intimate conversation with this vision-driven salon entrepreneur, who shares the transformative moments that shaped her education-centered philosophy and her unique approach to hair coloring. Discover the significance of fostering individuality and creativity within her team, and how it propels a culture of innovation that benefits everyone who walks through the doors of her salon.

There's magic in the intentional bonds formed within a salon team, and Lou embodies this as she details the alchemy of personalized support versus group mentorship. Hear about the profound effects of our Personal Development Day on Lou's crew, where ice baths and breath work were more than just exercises; they were rites of passage to a deeper understanding of self and collective strength. Lou's candid reflections on creating a nurturing environment speaks to the heart of what makes her business stand out in the competitive hair industry.

Behind every snip and color, there's a client looking for an experience that resonates with them personally. Lou from Louka Hair gives us a peek into the artistry of tailoring exceptional client encounters, emphasizing the importance of genuine connections in a post-COVID world. She also reflects on her mentorship journey and the work-life harmony that's instrumental in carving out financial freedom and business success. This episode isn't just about the cut and color—it's about the people, passion, and purpose that weave together to create a thriving salon business.

Follow along with Lou's journey:
@loukahair and @thecoloursociety_

To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative

On this week's episode, prepare to explore the caverns of personal development and the art of leadership.

From the surprising revelations of my first bra fitting to the pivotal shift from being the "cool boss" to a leader who owns their mistakes, we traverse the landscape of self-care and the metamorphosis that comes with it.

We get deep into the psyche, discussing how self-talk shapes our personal and professional lives, and cap things off with a candid look at the importance of vocalizing our struggles—reminding everyone that sometimes, just letting off steam is the best kind of pressure relief.

To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative

This week at the Conscious Salon, we're thrilled to share the buzz from our Conscious Salon masterclass and the upcoming Conscious Business Retreat that's shaping up to be a transformative haven for beauty industry enthusiasts. Plus, don't miss your chance to chime in on the Hot Girl Hotline—we're all ears for your thoughts on beauty, hair, and the conscious lifestyle.

As we wrap up another episode brimming with personal anecdotes and industry wisdom, we're sending out a virtual hug to you, our fantastic listeners. The community we've built together is the heartbeat of this podcast, and your engagement on social media brings us immeasurable joy. So hop on over to our Instagram, @the_conscious_salon or @aheadhair_, and let's keep this beautifully authentic conversation going. Ready for a dose of reality with a sprinkle of inspiration? Press play and let's get chatting.

To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative

Salon life isn't just about the glam; it's a roller coaster of hot water crises right before the holidays, team reshuffles, and the thrill of sharing a client's financial success. This episode peels back the curtain on the importance of alignment within a team, the resilience needed to keep a business afloat, and the power of a good debrief. Whether it's overcoming icy showers or celebrating the wins that we've carved out, we're all about keeping it real with stories that resonate, advice that inspires, and a touch of gratitude that ties it all together.

Wrapping up this episode, we're turning the mundane into the thrilling — think Taylor Swift concert-level excitement — as we count down not just the seconds, but the successes, lessons, and joyous moments that have marked our year at the salon. We're here to remind you that the challenges we face are just preludes to celebrations, and with a little intention-setting, support, and a few good laughs, there's always a reason to raise a glass. So, join Nicola, Tess, and our vibrant community as we leap into another year at the Conscious Salon, where every moment is worth tuning in for.

To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative

Are you ready to start 2024 with a fresh perspective and a solid plan? Welcome fellow explorers, as we journey together through the realms of personal growth, financial awareness, and the delicate balance of work and family life. We kick-start our conversation by setting our intentions for 2024, focusing on the balance between work, family, and self, and embarking on the path of creating a serene mind amidst the chaos of life.

In this riveting exchange of thoughts, we delve into the role of money in our lives. Can mindfulness with money transform our relationships? Absolutely! We'll discuss the significance of setting boundaries and carving out quality time for our loved ones. We share ways to show up for each other, set professional growth plans, and embrace the thrill of new experiences.

As we round up this inspiring episode, we extend an invitation to you to share your ambitions for 2024 with us. Let's talk about the power of words and experiences, and their role in shaping our futures. Join our social media tribe, where we collectively support each other's journey of self-discovery and growth. Here's to a successful, fulfilling, and intentional 2024!

To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative

Imagine closing your eyes, letting go of the past, and setting your intentions for a fresh, exciting year ahead. That's exactly what we've been doing at the Conscious Salon, and we're inviting you to join us. As we bid adieu to another eventful year, we take you on a reflective journey, pouring our hearts and thoughts into our journals, reminiscing the good and the not-so-good moments, and mapping out our grand plans for the future. We even give you a little glimpse into how this podcast has shaped our lives, both professionally and personally.

Our story doesn't end there. We put a spotlight on our personal journeys, the trials we've faced, and the growth we've achieved. Remember Mick's pursuit of an ADHD diagnosis? Or my endeavor to control my ego? We walk down memory lane, reliving those moments with you, sharing our four-year journey of perseverance, passion, and pride.

The last part of our journey takes a personal turn. We talk about the significance of being there for our loved ones in the most meaningful ways. We share our transition from a scarcity mindset to an abundance mindset, and how it has been our game-changer. We also touch on the importance of cherishing the memory of our dear ones and truly appreciating the people in our lives. It's a heartwarming tale of learning, growing, and giving, and we can't wait for you to be a part of it.

To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative

Ready to conquer the holiday rush with grace and efficiency? Join us as we navigate the wild world of salon management during the busiest season of the year. Reflecting on our hectic week, we dive into the nitty-gritty of salon chaos and share the hurdles we've faced, from schedule blunders to new client jitters. We assure you, it's not all hair-pulling and tinsel tangle, as we share our stress management strategies and dish out advice for fellow salon professionals.

Ever had a last-minute cancellation throw a wrench in your neatly planned schedule? We've been there too. But fear not, we come bearing solutions. We'll let you in on our secret strategy of implementing non-refundable deposits during peak seasons and how it can save you a world of stress. But remember, it's all about the approach. We shed light on the art of communication, using a fun dating analogy to demonstrate how our words can influence client perception.

But wait, there's more! Just as Santa needs his milk and cookies, salon professionals need their self-care. We've learnt the hard way and want to spare you the trouble. We highlight common mistakes and share practical self-care tips to help you stay on top of your game. And because teamwork makes the dream work, we discuss the importance of fostering a strong team dynamic. Hear about our team experiences, the power of clear communication, and how it can make a world of difference during the hustle and bustle. So put on your holiday hats and tune in for a merry blend of salon tales and practical tips!

To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative

Welcome to a special edition of Conscious Salon podcast, beaming straight from the Gold Coast! Join us as we share the space with our dear friend, Rache Mahon, and her vivacious daughter, Allegra, for some raw, unfiltered conversations about the trials and tribulations of our business journey. Ever pondered what could possibly be so outrageous that it prompts a professional to sever ties with a client? We have, and we're holding nothing back while discussing it.

As we peel back the layers of our adventures in the hairdressing industry, get ready for some jaw-dropping tales of banning clients, managing demanding personalities, and navigating inappropriate interactions. We also dig into the gritty subject of money, specifically the missteps we've made with our business funds. We've got some cautionary tales about ill-judged investments and the lessons we've learned from them. The plot thickens as we talk about how to handle employees who might be stealthily causing discord.

The twist in our narrative arrives when we recount a heart-wrenching episode of a serious accusation made against us by a former team member, and the fallout that followed. We navigated through a stormy week of multiple staff resignations, but emerged stronger, learning invaluable lessons about fostering a positive work environment. We've faced our share of challenges, but the silver lining is the resilience we've built, and the robust, supportive team that stands with us today. Come, join us for this profound conversation that promises life lessons aplenty!

To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative

Ever wondered how to handle team members leaving for higher-paying jobs? We've got you covered as we dive into this sensitive issue, sharing our strategies and insights from the trenches of running a successful salon.

As business owners and life partners, we've faced our share of physical and emotional challenges. Hear Tess reveal the realities of stepping back from daily tasks to focus on leadership and mentorship roles. We share how giving ourselves permission to surrender the small tasks can be the best decision to propel the business forward. Plus, we open up about our team dynamics, transitioning phases and the love we have for our business. So, come join us on this remarkable journey of business, love, and self-discovery at Conscious Salon!

To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative

What happens when a color specialist turns to sales and marketing? That's exactly what Carla did and she'll be sharing the nitty-gritty of her career transition. It's not just about the change in job titles - it's about integrating practical skills with a new role and the challenges that come along with it. Discover how she uses her hands-on experience to effectively relay the value of products to clients and how she manages her time in a fast-paced role. All while keeping an unwavering focus on meeting client expectations.

Ever wondered how to pick the right brand to partner with? Carla shares her wisdom on this, having been in a flourishing partnership with Revlon for a decade. Learn about the importance of alignment and support when identifying a potential partner. You'll also get to see the other side of Revlon - their commitment beyond manufacturing beauty products, which includes sponsoring international conferences, salon education and even an online learning portal. So, come along as we express our heartfelt gratitude for Revlon's incredible support and celebrate Carla's wonderful journey with them.

Email Carla: carla.bond@revlon.com

To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative

In this episode, we unravel the secrets of client retention in the beauty industry. We talk about crafting a clear plan for clients' hair, skin, and brows, and how to communicate expectations effectively. It's about that commitment to clients, tracking rebooking and retention rates, and yes, we also touch on the impact an attractive team leader can have on retaining clients.

Finally, we get personal. As busy as we are, relationships with family and friends can take a hit. So, we share our journey of self-reflection, self-care, and the importance of expressing our needs to our partners. We also shed light on how to resolve resentment through effective communication. And we throw in some Hawaiian wisdom on relationship amends for good measure. From discussing the impact of showing up for loved ones in their preferred love language to reminding ourselves to step out of ego, this episode is a mix of business, self-care, and relationship advice. Enjoy!

To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative

Ever wondered why despite all your efforts, something always seems to be amiss? A sense of being present yet detached? Nikki's seven-day challenge may hold the answers. Join us as we probe Nikki's journey on three distinct fronts - money, relationships, and health - and how the concept of 'diamond presence' transformed her approach to life. She brings an honest reflection of her experiences, sharing how eliminating podcasts and social media for a week invited more presence in her life, making her more tuned in to her needs and less susceptible to distractions.

As we delve further, Tess opens up about her potential ADHD diagnosis. This personal revelation leads us to a deeper conversation about the pitfalls of unconscious living and how conditions like ADHD could contribute to it. We stress the importance of mindfulness in the way we spend our time and energy, and how recognizing and altering our routines can bring about positive shifts in our lives. We also touch upon the role of distractions in our lives and how growing up in an environment filled with constant stimuli has shaped current habits.

As we round off our conversation, we underline the power of positive language and an open mindset. It's fascinating to observe the role these elements play in attracting what we desire. We believe in the potency of self-reflection and self-awareness in acknowledging and rectifying our behavior. And that is precisely what we've aimed to explore in this episode. So tune in for a profound conversation on presence, self-awareness, and conscious living. It will certainly leave you with valuable insights and food for thought.

To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative

Running a business in the beauty and hair industry is no walk in the park. It's a delicate balancing act - keeping up with cost increases, renegotiating costs, trimming expenses, and revisiting business finances and pricing strategies regularly. We share our firsthand experiences and insights into such matters. We also delve into a candid discussion about the necessary discomfort of making business changes, including adjusting costs and deciding to no longer offer certain services. Yes, even if it means criticism or pushback.

Finally, we take you through the journey of our own little venture into the hair and beauty industry. Having stayed successful for seven years, there's plenty of stories to tell and lessons to share. We discuss the importance of mentors, making uncomfortable leaps, and standing firm on decisions that are best for the business. So, come along, join us on Instagram and let's navigate the delightful complexities of conscious living and business together!

To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative

In this episode Nic and Tess, dive into their new course on meetings and answer some questions from their audience.

Aimed at helping salon owners improve their team meetings and, ultimately, their businesses. They highlight the course's content, its benefits, and its affordability, emphasizing their commitment to providing valuable resources for salon owners.

The episode addresses common questions about team engagement, the course's relevance for those already conducting meetings, sharing real team meetings, and concerns about the perceived lack of productivity from meetings. Throughout the discussion, Nic and Tess stress the importance of effective meetings for fostering connection, trust, empowerment, and a collaborative team culture.

The hosts share insights into their own meeting structures, including the morning pump-up sessions and one-on-one meetings, and explain how these meetings have been transformative for their business. They also discuss the financial investment required for meetings, emphasizing that it's an investment in the business and its people, leading to significant returns in terms of culture, collaboration, and success.

The episode encourages listeners to consider the value of meetings in their own businesses and highlights the potential for improved team engagement, culture, and financial growth through effective meetings. It concludes with an invitation for listeners to reach out and learn more about their upcoming course.

To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative

Get ready for a unique take on Christmas parties as we share our past experiences. From an unforgettable event crafted with a $10,000 budget to a helicopter ride transporting our team to a private house in Victoria, we leave no stone unturned! Recollections of our past Christmas parties, complete with escape rooms, extravagant dinners, and the infamous "Nudey Runs", serve as an important reminder of why experiences trump gifts every single time. Dying to know how to throw an unforgettable holiday party of your own? Don’t fret; we’ve got you covered with some out-of-the-box ideas.

Lastly, we pull back the curtain and let you in on some behind-the-scenes stories from our memorable Christmas parties. We'll let you in on the time we fed hippos, dressed up as Santa, and the time we all wore matching pajamas for a weekend getaway. Our anecdotes not only serve as a fun trip down memory lane but also provide valuable insight into planning an inclusive and unforgettable event. With our tried and tested tips and ideas, we guarantee your next Christmas party will be a surefire hit! Buckle up and get ready for a journey filled with laughter, memorable moments, and practical advice. Trust us; you don't want to miss out on this one!

To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative

VWe've got a new episode of Conscious Salon that's sure to revitalize your leadership skills and take your team’s communication to the next level.

Struggling to get your team on board with new changes? We share our tried-and-true strategies for team buy-in that have been instrumental in driving our business forward. We decode the art of clear communication that paves the way for understanding the rationale behind changes, and the end goals. Moreover, you'll get a peek into how we've cultivated a safe space for our team to voice their concerns and uncertainties openly.

Leadership, a word that carries quite a weight, right? But what does it truly mean? We dissect the essence of leadership, diving into the profound transformation it calls for, along with the inevitable mistakes that tag along. But, worry not! We share how these missteps can be your stepping stones towards growth. Understand the importance of compassionate leadership, the power of admitting your errors, and the magic of leading with modesty and respect. Additionally, we'll let you in on how Nic's method of processing before decision-making has amplified her leadership prowess. And last but not least, we discuss the unique personality resource we've curated for our team, allowing us all to understand each other better. So, are you ready to unlock the door to effective leadership and communication? Come join us at the Conscious Salon!

To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative

Want to unlock the secrets to attracting your ideal clients and running a successful salon? Get ready for a deep dive into our real-life stories and experiences in the salon business, from navigating bookings and marketing strategies, to the importance of creating a space aligned with your clientele.

We're pulling back the curtain on our eight-year journey to understanding our ideal client - an enlightening process filled with trial, error, and invaluable learning. We'll share how our clientele has evolved over the years and how clarity on who we want to serve has transformed our business. You'll get an insider's view on creating captivating content, attracting and marketing to your ideal clients, and visualising your client within the salon space - all crucial elements in running a successful salon. So whether you're new to the industry or a seasoned pro, join us for an episode packed with nuggets of wisdom and actionable insights.

To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative

What happens when you combine the zest of salon life with the insights of transitioning careers and building supportive networks? You get a power-packed episode of the Conscious Salon podcast! Join us as our special guest Megan, a seasoned veteran of our salon, brings her unique perspective on the significance of meetings, their priority and how to establish a consistent rhythm. Not to mention, she also shares her stress-busting secrets of starting the day with a morning pump-up.

So tune in and get ready for an enlightening conversation that might just change your outlook on effective meetings, career transitions, and building supportive networks in the salon industry.

To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative

Have you ever wondered why despite all the love and care we show, relationships can still be challenging? Or why it’s so hard to be vulnerable, especially in leadership roles? Get ready to have your perspectives challenged and your beliefs tested as we sit down with Aesha, founder of ReKonect and co-founder of the B.Human Movement. Aesha, who's a mother herself, opens up about her refreshing take on motherhood, how it's shaped her risk tolerance, and nurtured her curiosity towards life. You'll get an insightful look into her work as a facilitator and the loving communities she fosters.

In our enlightening conversation with Aesha, we explore themes of self-worth, the power of choice, and the importance of acknowledging the energy within us. We discuss societal norms that limit us, and how embracing our feelings can lead to emotional liberation. Drawing on her experience, Aesha shares how her cultural background and upbringing have helped shape her risk tolerance and self-belief, and how stepping outside her comfort zone has made her who she is today.

No episode would be complete without discussing the role that authenticity and empowerment play in relationships, and this chat with Aesha is no different. Aesha delves into the lessons learned from her long-term relationship and the power that choice and self-worth have in shaping our relationships. We wrap up the conversation by delving into the importance of vulnerability in leadership and its role in fostering trust within teams. This is a cracker of an episode, guaranteed to leave you pondering long after you've hit stop. So sit back, tune in, and prepare for an enlightening journey.

@aesha.mukerji @re.konect
@theb.humanmovement

To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative

Having a salon isn't just about great haircuts and colour; it's about creating a serene, mindful space for our clients. Unfortunately, not everyone fits into that philosophy. We've had our fair share of unaligned clients, and in this episode, we share some hard-earned wisdom on how to handle such situations. Ever wondered if it's okay to turn away clients who don't align with your business ethics? We have some thoughts - and stories - on that.

Finally, we discuss the delicate dance of managing client expectations, especially when their vision is a tad beyond your skill set. It's a tough conversation to have, but vital for both parties' satisfaction. Attraction and repulsion is a theme in our business, and we've got some tips on how to navigate it. Whether you’re a salon owner, a stylist or a client, you’ll find something to relate to in our salon stories.

To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative

Join us as we talk about the importance of investing in yourself and your business. You'll hear us open up about our own experiences and the leaps of faith we've taken, the fear we've faced, and the life-changing revelations we've discovered along the way. Trust us, it's a journey worth making. We promise you'll walk away with a renewed sense of courage and conviction.

Finally, we'll cruise into the final leg of our ride as we talk about Nic's recent certification as a human regulator. If you've ever wondered what it takes to become one, or what the value of such an investment might be, then buckle up. We'll break down the process, the ethical responsibilities, and the potential rewards of this unique career path. It's a wild ride, but we're thrilled to have you along with us. So kick back, tune in and let the journey begin!

Thank you to our beloved Revlon Professional for sponsoring this episode of The Conscious Salon.
To follow our journey:

In this episode, we delve deep into a discussion that has been at the forefront of our minds: the intricate interplay between trust, freedom, and the vital art of setting boundaries in the realm of business.

As we transitioned from our roles in the treatment room to positions of leadership, we encountered a labyrinth of challenges and revelations. Join us as we openly share our personal journey, uncovering the gems of wisdom we've gathered along the way.

Guilt – an unexpected companion on our path to success – takes centre stage in this conversation. We explore how this powerful emotion can unexpectedly steer our decisions and influence our effectiveness as leaders. Tune in as we dissect strategies to harness the potency of guilt and channel it towards constructive change.

But that's not all – we've also uncovered a transformative truth: the profound significance of acknowledging and respecting our personal limits. Far from a sign of weakness, setting boundaries emerges as a beacon of self-awareness and strength. Through anecdotes and lessons learned, we impart actionable insights to help you strike the perfect balance.

Join us on this captivating episode as we bring you face-to-face with the raw realities of leadership. From unravelling the threads of guilt to mastering the skill of boundary setting, we're committed to fostering an environment of growth, authenticity, and evolution.

Thank you to our beloved Revlon Professional for sponsoring this episode of The Conscious Salon.
To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative

Who says you can't mix insightful discussions with a dash of light-hearted banter? Join us and our delightful guest, Amy Carr, for a heartfelt conversation brimming with laughter, self-discovery and empowering conversations.

Ever thought about how the dynamics of fire and water could be metaphors for masculine and feminine energies? We're taking this unique perspective and exploring how it can be applied in salons and beyond. From discussing the upcoming Barbie movie's representation of female empowerment to understanding the art of energy matching when dealing with clients, we're sparking thought-provoking conversations to get your mental gears turning.

But we're not stopping there. We're diving deep into how challenging discussions with friends can lead to personal growth, the significance of precise language use, and the transformative power of vulnerability. We're going on a journey with Tess as she discusses how swapping between these energies has shaped her personal journey. Tune in for an unforgettable episode filled with compassion, self-awareness, and hearty laughs. Get ready to explore, learn and have an amazing time with us on the Conscious Salon podcast!

Thank you to our beloved Revlon Professional for sponsoring this episode of The Conscious Salon.
To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative

Today, we're celebrating a milestone that's close to our hearts – our salon's 10-year anniversary.

In this episode, we invite you to join us on a remarkable journey as we explore how our views on celebrating achievements have evolved over the years. From humble beginnings to becoming a beacon of wellness in our community, we share the profound impact of our 'Life Ahead Program' and how it has played a pivotal role in shaping our salon's identity.

As we wrap up this captivating episode, we invite you to join us in celebrating the joy of milestones and the leaders who inspire us daily. Remember, life is a journey of both highs and lows, and embracing every experience is key to personal growth. Let's dive deep into the heart of celebration and growth together.

We hope you've enjoyed this behind-the-scenes glimpse into our salon's 10-year anniversary and the transformative power of our 'Life Ahead Program.' Until next time, remember to celebrate the good times and embrace the challenges that shape us into the remarkable individuals we're meant to be. Stay tuned and stay inspired!

Thank you to our beloved Revlon Professional for sponsoring this episode of The Conscious Salon.
To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative

In this episode, we delve into the profound impact that gratitude wields within team dynamics. We challenge the notion that industry veterans are inherently better leaders, shedding light on the significance of humility and mutual respect in nurturing team morale. Our discussion uncovers the team's role as an invaluable source of collective wisdom and growth.

Moving on, we explore the unexpected application of love languages in the team setting. Nikki's penchant for words of affirmation, Mick's preference for physical touch, and Pete's affinity for quality time serve as examples of how understanding individual love languages can forge powerful bonds within a team. We reveal how this awareness fosters deeper connections and mutual appreciation.

Our conversation then delves into real-life anecdotes that exemplify the transformative potential of integrating love languages into team dynamics. Through stories, we navigate the challenges and misconceptions surrounding the professional implementation of love languages, offering insights into successful integration.

Thank you to our beloved Revlon Professional for sponsoring this episode of The Conscious Salon.
To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative

Ever wondered how an online store could transform your business?

Get your pens ready as we pull back the curtain on the digital landscape and the pivotal role of an online store. We share our insights on establishing trust with customers and the strategies we have used to grow our online store to a turnover of $145,000 in the last financial year.

Discover how delegating the construction of an online store to your team can free you up for more strategic tasks. And how our course has not only been an investment but also a lifetime benefit. Join us for a chat that's as entertaining as it is enlightening - a laugh a minute, with plenty of nuggets of wisdom.

Thank you to our beloved Revlon Professional for sponsoring this episode of The Conscious Salon.
To follow our journey:

Welcome back to The Conscious Salon! Money can carry a lot of energy, and it's no wonder that fear can creep up at the end of the financial year. But don't worry, we've got your back! We'll delve deeper into the energy of money and share some insights on how to transform fear into empowerment.

Gratitude is a game-changer! We'll explain how cultivating gratitude and maintaining a positive mindset can not only transform your business but also attract positive opportunities your way. Get ready to shift your perspective and thrive! Gratitude isn't just a personal affair; it has a powerful impact on those around us too. We'll discuss the ripple effect of sharing gratitude and explore how it can create a supportive and uplifting environment in your business and personal life.

Life throws challenges at us, and sometimes, it can be tough to stay positive. But we'll show you how to turn negative situations into opportunities for growth and success. Get ready to face difficult times with resilience and optimism!

Embrace the energy of money, replace fear with empowerment, and let gratitude be your guiding light. Together, we'll thrive and create a positive impact on ourselves and everyone around us. Join us next time for more enlightening conversations! Stay conscious, and stay fabulous!

Thank you to our beloved Revlon Professional for sponsoring this episode of The Conscious Salon.
To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative

Welcome to another episode of our podcast! Today, we're diving deep into the world of running a business and exploring the tricky terrain of cancellation policies. We know it's not always a straightforward path, but we're here to guide you through it with care and consideration.

Cancellation Policies with Empathy: We explore the importance of approaching cancellation policies with empathy and care. Running a business involves understanding our clients' situations and finding a balance that respects their needs.
Effective Implementation: Learn from our experiences and current policies as we offer valuable advice on how to enforce cancellation policies effectively. Striking the right balance between protecting your business and being considerate of clients is key.
Navigating the Delicate Balance: Join us on this thought-provoking journey to discover how successful business operations can be achieved while respecting the circumstances of our clients. It's a path that requires careful consideration, and we'll guide you through it together.

Tune in to our podcast and embark on this enlightening adventure with us!

Thank you to our beloved Revlon Professional for sponsoring this episode of The Conscious Salon.
To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative

Hey, friends! Tess recently ended up at a party that was a true testament to creativity and inspiration. there were burning sculptures, 70s sequined jumpsuits, and a host who could juggle, ride a unicycle, and walk on stilts all at the same time. But this got us thinking, what gets our creative juices flowing? Cooking? Yoga? Reading? Let’s talk about the importance of having interests outside of work, and the struggles we each face when trying to identify our hobbies as adults.

And last but not least, we’re digging deep into the topic of work-life balance and creating boundaries. Let's be honest, we could all use a little more balance in our lives. But how do we achieve this elusive concept? We'll share our own strategies, including creating systems, setting boundaries, and delegating tasks. We'll also reflect on the impact of introducing new perspectives to traditional businesses and the importance of mental freedom from work. So, pull up a chair (or your favourite pair of headphones) and let's navigate this journey together!

Thank you to our beloved Revlon Professional for sponsoring this episode of The Conscious Salon.
To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative

Meet Julia Lambert, a gutsy girl power advocate and our dear friend.

Ever felt overshadowed at work? Join us as Julia shares her experiences with 'comparison syndrome,' a common challenge in the workplace. She emphasizes the importance of acknowledging your worth, taking mental breaks, and not getting entangled in others' successes.

We delve into the power of positive affirmations with Julia, who shares her personal mantra, "I'm fucking fabulous." She opens up about her experiences with self-doubt, managing work stress, and how she found resilience. In a bid to challenge the norm of women competing against each other, Julia inspires us to empower one another and build a supportive community. We wrap up with a hearty discussion on feminism, creativity, and the importance of recognizing our feelings with compassion. So, are you ready for a laughter-filled, introspective journey with Julia Lambert? Tune in now!

Thank you to our beloved Revlon Professional for sponsoring this episode of The Conscious Salon.
To follow our journey:

Picture this, you've had a great day of sales at your salon. So, what do you do with all that physical cash? Well, we're here to spill the beans on why banking your cash is paramount and how it could negatively impact your business if you don't. Furthermore, we explore the world of hair and beauty, revealing surefire strategies to maintain business sustainability in the long run. We're talking price adjustments, transparent budget discussions with your team, and more.

While some may say imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, we beg to differ. Join us as we navigate through the nitty-gritty of maintaining originality and dealing with copycats in our industry. We'll unravel our experiences of having our content copied, and share effective ways to address these situations. Plus, we'll delve into the incredible world of mentorship, discussing how different types of mentors helped shape our journey and why investing in personal and business growth is absolutely worth it. So, fasten your seatbelts as we take you on this enlightening roller-coaster ride!

Thank you to our beloved Revlon Professional for sponsoring this episode of The Conscious Salon.

To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative

Ever felt like you're on the verge of burnout and desperately need a break? Well, you're not alone! In this episode of the Conscious Salon Podcast, we share our personal experiences of taking breaks for mental health and the impact it has had on our lives. From reconnecting with nature to setting boundaries as business owners, we explore various self-care practices that can help boost our mental health and overall well-being.

As we navigate through the challenges of running a small business and handling stressful situations, we discover the importance of finding balance and gratitude in our lives. Listen in as we discuss how self-care plays a crucial role in business leadership and share a story about a transformative retreat that turned out to be the best investment we've ever made. We also chat about the importance of monitoring the content we consume and being mindful of the conversations we have, as these can significantly impact our mental health.

In this episode, we also dive into handling self-doubt and overcoming negative self-talk. Join us as we remind ourselves and our listeners that self-care, mindfulness, and taking breaks are key to navigating the challenges and uncertainties that life throws our way. Don't miss this uplifting and insightful conversation that will leave you inspired to prioritize your mental health and embrace the healing power of taking breaks.

Thank you to our beloved Revlon Professional for sponsoring this episode of The Conscious Salon.

To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative

Is it possible to leave a workplace on good terms?
In this episode, we host former member of The A Team, Megan Crossley.
Some things covered in this episode:

The experience of resigning from an employee's perspective.
How to lead with compassion when a team member resigns.
Keeping money mindsets strong, both as a team member and a leader.

To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative

Is it possible to leave a workplace on good terms?
In this episode, we host former member of The A Team, Megan Crossley.
Some things covered in this episode:

The experience of resigning from an employee's perspective.
How to lead with compassion when a team member resigns.
Keeping money mindsets strong, both as a team member and a leader.

To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative

Why do women have to have it all?
In this episode, we discuss the societal expectation for women to juggle everything.
Some things covered in this episode:

Our strategies of balancing running two businesses and parenting.
How to share the load with your team and family.
Setting a new standard for women moving forward.

To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative

How does astrology help you understand yourself as a business owner?
In this episode, host astrologer Heidi Reeves and do a live birth chart reading.
Some things covered in this episode:

How a birth chart can help you perform as a leader.
The importance of understanding and honouring all parts of our makeup.
Recognizing the signs of burnout.

To book a reading with Heidi:
@risingsolastrology
https://rising-sol-astrology.square.site

To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative

Why do people have such strong opinions around hiring Gen Z?
In this episode, we deep dive into hiring young people, and why they are the future of our industry.
Some things we chat about include:

What Gen Z prioritise when it comes to work.
Why our mindset needs to be positive around the up and coming hair and beauty generation.

To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative

How do you handle team conflict?
In this episode, we talk all about resolving issues within your team.
Some things we chat about include:

How to calmly work through conflict.
The difference between calm leadership and reactive management.
Why it's imperative to have difficult conversations with your team.

To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative

What happens when business values are unaligned with the people in the business?
In this episode, we chat to Amy and explore what happened recently in her experience working in an unaligned business.
Some things we chat about include:

How values in a business are imperative.
What happens when there are people in your business with unalgined values.
When to walk away from toxic work situations.

To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative

What does Delta Goodrem, getting fired on your birthday and wetting yourself at the acupuncturist all have in common?
In this episode, we answer a series of spicy questions from our community.
Some questions we answered include:

What is your most embarassing business moment?
Have you ever had a fling with a colleague?
How do you handle client's trauma dumping?

To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative

When is the right time to get support from a mentor?
In this episode, we deep dive into mentorship.
Our chat today included:

When the right time to jump into mentorship is.
How to afford a mentor when you aren't paying yourself.
Why it's crucial to sit in a room with people you want to learn from.

To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative

How can jumping in to a pool of ice help your team's mindset?
In this episode, we have the privilege of hearing from The A Team in our Life aHead Personal Development Day.
Our chat today included:

What our team's biggest takeaway from the Life aHead Day.
What the team are individually letting go of and stepping into.
How an experience like this can be so beneficial for team culture.

To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative

How does your interview game attract or deter the right team?
In this episode, we sit down with one of our best friends, Rache - founder of Pearl & Sage Skin and Wellness and chat through our interviewing strategy.
Our chat today included:

What to ask in an interview to understand if someone is the right fit for your salon.
Changing your approach to interviewing to showcase your company in it's true light.
What has and hasn't worked for our interview strategy.

To follow Rache's journey:
@pearlandsage_bendigo

To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative

Is retail a dirty word?
In this episode, we change the mindset around retail in the hair and beauty industry.
Our chat today included:

How to empower your team to increase product sales.
Flipping your mindset from selling retail to solving problems.
Maximising opportunity during quiet times.

To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative

How do you manifest your dream home?
In this episode, Tess and Nicola celebrate some exciting news.
Their chat today included:

Manifestation in all forms (both monetary and non monetary things).
Having an abundant mindset in business and life.
Stepping in to an abundant life and attracting the things you deserve.

To follow Nicola & Tessa's journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative

Why is it imperative to be a feminist in today's world?
To celebrate International Women's Day, Tess and Nicola spoke all things women and feminism.

Their chat today included:

The importance of stepping into feminism.
Why we should command more, as women, for our lives and ourselves.
Losing the mindset of needing men.

To follow Nicola & Tessa's journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative

How well do partners really listen?
In this episode, Nicola and Tess quiz their boyfriends on how well they really know aHead.

Some of the questions asked were:

What year did aHead open?
Name 4 brands stocked at aHead.
Name our team member's partners.

To follow Nicola & Tessa's journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative

Why do we feel like we own clients in the hair and beauty industry?
In this episode, Tess and Nicola chat about owning clients, and why our egos take a bruising when clients go elsewhere.

Their chat today included:

How to release clients who want to experience another salon / stylist.
Removing the drama and ego of someone else being a better fit for a client.
Changing the mindset that clients belong to a specific salon or stylist.

To follow Nicola & Tessa's journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative

What would you do if 7 out of 8 of your team fell ill in a fully booked week?
In this episode, Tess and Nicola take you through their wild week that was.

Their chat today included:

How to navigate chaos calmly.
The art of being compassionate.
Why showing up for your team and clients is important in times of pressure

To follow Nicola & Tessa's journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative

What is the one question you shouldn't ask another woman?
In this episode, Tess and Nicola discuss the impact on talking about other women's bodies.

Their chat today included:

Their struggles of body image.
The impacts of unsolicited comments.
How we need to do better as a society in being fat-phobic and diet obsessed.

To follow Nicola & Tessa's journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative

How do you navigate healthy communication and healing in a new relationship?
In this episode, Tess and Nicola chat to Mick, Tess' partner, about how he and Tess transformed their communication and deepend their connection.

Their chat today included:

How they released their individual egos to enable their relationship to grow.
The learnings that Mick and Tess have had from each other.
Their story of falling in love at the start of a pandemic.

To follow Nicola & Tessa's journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative

Why are regular meetings necessary in every small business?
In this episode, Tess and Nicola explore the importance of prioritising regular and productive meetings.

Their chat today included:

Their previous lack of meetings and how it negatively affected their team culture.
The types of meetings held at aHead, and the structure of these meetings.
Where to start if you've never held a meeting with your team before.

To follow Nicola & Tessa's journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative

Why does toxicity exist in some workplaces?
In this episode, Tess and Nicola talk to Amy Carr, a beloved client of aHead's, about toxic energy in corporate workplaces.

Their chat today included:

Why choosing a balanced, happy workplace can far outway a high paying, high level corporate role.
What makes good culture in the workplace and how to recognise toxic behaviour.
Why people defend toxic behaviour in corporate environments.

To follow Nicola & Tessa's journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative

Why is setting and staying in routine so important?
In this episode, Tess and Nicola talk about why having a routine is a non negotiable in Girl Boss life.

Their chat today included:

Why having a routine should be your highest goal.
How to establish a routine / ritual and keep all the balls in the air.
How can we support our team, in a position of leadership, to have better routines?

To follow Nicola & Tessa's journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative

What are you wanting to get out of 2023?
In this episode, Tess and Nicola set their intentions for the year aHead.

Some of the journal prompts for you to do at home are:

In 2023, I want more _________.
In 2023, I am introducing _________ to commit to improving my mental health.
My 1% daily action habit is __________.

To follow Nicola & Tessa's journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative

How was 2022 as a whole?
In this episode, Tess and Nicola reflect on 22 questions about the year that passed.

Some of the questions asked are:

What was the most challenging part of the year?
What their proudest moments were.
What was the biggest failure of the year?

To follow Nicola & Tessa's journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative

10 anonymous questions from our Instagram followers.

In this episode, Tess and Nicola answer 10 anonymous questions from their Instagram community.

Some of the questions asked are:

What is a hair trend you can't stand doing?
How do you deal with hate?
If you could live your dream life with no money limits, what would it look like?

To follow Nicola & Tessa's journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative

How does breaking an archery arrow on your throat improve your mindset?

In this episode, Tess and Nicola chat to the entire A Team about their recent Life aHead Day and the infamous arrow break exercise.

Some of the things they cover are:

What their most recent Life aHead Day looked like and their experience with the arrow break.
What they are the most proud of from the day.
What their biggest takeaway was from the day.

To follow Nicola & Tessa's journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon

This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative

20 questions that we HAVE to answer!

In this episode, Tess and Nicola ask each other 20 juicy questions that they both HAVE to answer.

Some of the questions asked are:

What is the most amount of money you've ever spent on a single item?
What's the worst thing you've ever done to someone?
What's the strangest dream you've ever had?

To follow their journey:

Instagram @aheadhair_
Website www.aheadhair.com.au

This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative

What if we changed the way we view neurodivergent therapies?

In this episode, Nicola and Tessa welcome Nicola's boyfriend Pete onto the podcast.

Some of the things they cover off include:

Pete's diagnosis of ADHD and how he's found therapies to support his mind.
Plant medicine and alternate therapies to support mental health.
How it's been for Pete to see his family start a small business.

To follow Nicola & Tessa's journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
Website www.aheadhair.com.au

To follow Pete's journey:
Instagram @_mynameispetey

To follow their journey:

Instagram @aheadhair_
Website www.aheadhair.com.au

This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative

What if we changed the way we view neurodivergent therapies?

In this episode, Nicola and Tessa welcome Nicola's boyfriend Pete onto the podcast.

Some of the things they cover off include:

Pete's diagnosis of ADHD and how he's found therapies to support his mind.
Plant medicine and alternate therapies to support mental health.
How it's been for Pete to see his family start a small business.

To follow Nicola & Tessa's journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
Website www.aheadhair.com.au

To follow Pete's journey:
Instagram @_mynameispetey

To follow their journey:

Instagram @aheadhair_
Website www.aheadhair.com.au

This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative

How do you grow a 6 figure empire from the ground up?

In this episode, Tess and Nicola interview their friend and client Kate, founder of Kate Morris Nutrition & Coaching.

To follow Nicola & Tessa's journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
Website www.aheadhair.com.au

To follow Kate's journey:
Instagram @katemorris_pt
Website https://katemorrispt.mykajabi.com

To follow their journey:

Instagram @aheadhair_
Website www.aheadhair.com.au

This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative

How are we able to connect to our children and families during difficult times?

In this episode, Nicola and Tessa invited their Dad Greg on to discuss what it was like raising two strong women.

Some of the things they cover off include:

Greg's experience being an "intrapreneur" within a business.
What the hardest parts have been seeing his daughters operating a business.
His battles with mental health and how he continues to work on having a positive mindset.

To follow Nicola & Tessa's journey:

Instagram @aheadhair_
Website www.aheadhair.com.au

To follow their journey:

Instagram @aheadhair_
Website www.aheadhair.com.au

This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative

Why, as a society, do we discuss "Mum Guilt"?

In this episode, Nicola and Tessa deep dive into Mum Guilt and what it means to prioritise yourself while also being a parent.

Some of the things they cover off include:

Why society puts pressure on women and Mums to 'do it all'
The unconventional way that Nicola and Tess raise Nicola's son together.
Practical steps to implement today to start prioritising yourself.

To follow their journey:

Instagram @aheadhair_
Website www.aheadhair.com.au

This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative

What do you get when you cross mental health with holistic and spiritual practices?

In this episode, Nicola and Tessa chat to Lauren Cortazzo, founder of Vivid Growth & Wellness about all things spiritual growth.

Some of the things they cover off include:

What modern day connection to self looks like, without the spiritual superiority.
The inner critic, and how it still shows up, no matter where you are in your personal development journey.
Mindful practices and practical steps on mastering your Morning Practice.

To follow Nicola & Tessa's journey:

Instagram @aheadhair_
Website www.aheadhair.com.au

To follow Lauren's journey:
Instagram @vivid.growth.wellness
Website www.vividgrowthwellness.com

To follow their journey:

Instagram @aheadhair_
Website www.aheadhair.com.au

This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative

How do we come back to ourselves after a period of self avoidance?

In this episode, Tess speaks candidly about avoiding herself and feeling disconnected from her daily practices.

Some of the things they cover off include:

Why procrastination and avoidance is so common in society today.
Why self care practices are so important to stay connected to yourself.
Advice we would give to someone wanting to stop avoiding themselves.

To follow their journey:

Instagram @aheadhair_
Website www.aheadhair.com.au

This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative

What does it take to run an empire to empower women to live their best, most authentic life?

In this episode, Nicola and Tessa welcome Rebecca Miller, their business mentor to chat about her journey in owning and operating salons, and now coaching and running retreats.

Some of the things they cover off include:

What inspired Bec to cofound Becoming Limitless Retreats.
Bec's 355km fundraiser run from Parkes to Sydney and how anything is possible.
How Bec has navigated being a Mum to 3 kids while building businesses.

To follow their journey:

Instagram @aheadhair_
Website www.aheadhair.com.au

This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative

How do you build a beauty empire from the ground up?

In this episode, Nicola and Tessa chat to the queen of Bendigo, Rachel Mahon from Wax Gallery and Glow Gallery.

Some of the things they cover off include:

Being self made and building two successful businesses from the ground up.
How Rache navigated life as a first time Mum at 19 years old.
The 3 stages of business and how the tide can change quickly.

To follow their journey:

Instagram @aheadhair_
Website www.aheadhair.com.au

This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative

How do you navigate a season of hustle in business?

In this episode, Nicola and Tessa chat about their experience currently being understaffed and overworked in business.

Some of the things they cover off include:

What commitment means to them during a season of hustle.
What their non negotiables are when it comes to busy periods.
Navigating this season of business between growth and scale.

To follow their journey:

Instagram @aheadhair_
Website www.aheadhair.com.au

This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative

Have you ever experienced an all women retreat?

In this episode, Nicola and Tessa intimately share their experience at the Becoming Limitless Retreat at SOMA in Byron Bay.

Some of the things they cover off include:

Their daily experience at SOMA during the thick of the retreat.
The breakdowns and breakthroughs at a retreat.
How the connection of women expanding their spiritual, emotional and physical selves can bring an eternal sistership.

To follow their journey:

Instagram @aheadhair_
Website www.aheadhair.com.au

This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative

Have you ever experienced an all women retreat?

In this episode, Nicola and Tessa intimately share their experience at the Becoming Limitless Retreat at SOMA in Byron Bay.

Some of the things they cover off include:

Their daily experience at SOMA during the thick of the retreat.
The breakdowns and breakthroughs at a retreat.
How the connection of women expanding their spiritual, emotional and physical selves can bring an eternal sistership.

To follow their journeys:

Instagram @aheadhair_
Website www.aheadhair.com.au

This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative

What's it like to see you 21 and 23 year old daughters open a business with no experience?

In this episode, Nicola and Tessa deep dive into a conversation with their Mum, Alison to understand her experience of seeing her children become small business owners.

Some of the things they cover off include:

Alison's experience being a conscious parent and raising Nicola and Tess.
What it means to listen and support your children in living their dreams.
Navigating parenting when your child doesn't fit into traditional education.

To follow their journey:

Instagram @aheadhair_
Website www.aheadhair.com.au

This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative

aHead is Melbourne’s First Mindful Salon. But, what does that actually mean?

In Episode Four of aHead Full of Dreams, Tessa and Nicola explore what it means to actually be a mindful salon and what that looks like for their clients and team.

Some of the things they cover off include:

Their individual journeys in mindfulness, and how their practices have become daily rituals.
The changes aHead has made as a company to become more mindful.
Top 3 mindful practices that you can incorporate into you daily routine.

To follow their journey:

Instagram @aheadhair_
Website www.aheadhair.com.au

This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative

It’s not every day you find your ride or die employee as a small business owner…

In Episode Three of aHead Full of Dreams, Nicola and Tessa interview Taeya, their salon manager of 7 years. Together, the three of them explore the ups and downs of running a hair salon, and what it means to work together and have a friendship.

Some of the things they cover off include:

Taeya’s experience as a team member working at aHead.
Taeya’s journey with personal development.
The Life aHead Days and how they’ve supported our team to grow themselves.
The trip of a lifetime Taeya is about to embark on.

To follow their journey:

Instagram @aheadhair_
Website www.aheadhair.com.au

This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative

Ever wonder how a small business became successful? It doesn’t happen overnight.

In Episode One of aHead Full of Dreams, Nicola and Tessa discuss the successes that propelled their small Melbourne salon forward, as well as the challenges that arose along the way.

Some of the things they cover off include:

Why they decided to take the plunge and open their own salon at 21 and 23 years of age.
How they went about setting up, finding a location and building a team from the ground up.
The ups and downs of running a team of 7.
How to company and their leadership has evolved.
What sets their salon apart, for their team, their clients and the greater community.

To follow their journey:

Instagram @aheadhair_
Website www.aheadhair.com.au

This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative

Ever wonder how a small business became successful? It doesn’t happen overnight.

In Episode One of aHead Full of Dreams, Nicola and Tessa discuss the successes that propelled their small Melbourne salon forward, as well as the challenges that arose along the way.

Some of the things they cover off include:

Why they decided to take the plunge and open their own salon at 21 and 23 years of age.
How they went about setting up, finding a location and building a team from the ground up.
The ups and downs of running a team of 7.
How to company and their leadership has evolved.
What sets their salon apart, for their team, their clients and the greater community.

To follow their journey:

Instagram @aheadhair_
Website www.aheadhair.com.au

This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative

In this episode, we welcome you into our community and introduce our hosts of aHead Full of Dreams, Nicola and Tessa.

To follow their journey:

Instagram @aheadhair_
Website www.aheadhair.com.au

This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative