Revisiting Episode 1: Who We Were & Who We Are Now

What happens when you press play on your very first podcast episode two years later?In this special episode, Samara and Jen go back to where it all began. Episode 1 of Salon Rising: The Podcast. What started as two best friends sharing insights about business, life, and salon ownership has since grown into a platform of connection, community, and real conversations.Listening back, some things made us cringe, but what stood out most was how much has changed, in business, in life, and in who we are today.We revisit the lessons, the laughs, and the raw truths of that first conversation, and share how our purpose has evolved, what’s stayed the same, and why this podcast still lights us up.💡 In this episode, you’ll hear:The biggest shifts in our lives and businesses since Episode 1How our philosophies on business and life have evolvedThe power of speaking from scars, not woundsWhy community, connection, and storytelling are still at the heart of Salon RisingWhat we’ve learned about impact, growth, and building a life (not just a business)This isn’t just a reintroduction, it’s proof that growth is constant, change is inevitable, and your story will always keep unfolding.Timestamps:00:00 Introduction: The Purpose of Salon Rising01:46 Reflecting on the First Episode02:01 Reintroducing Ourselves02:16 Jen's Journey and Identity04:16 Sam's Journey and Identity06:40 The Evolution of Our Podcast10:05 Navigating Personal and Professional Challenges13:15 The Impact of Sharing Stories20:28 The Purpose Behind the Podcast21:24 Reflecting on Personal Growth22:03 Unexpected Podcast Journey23:25 Transformative Conversations24:52 Purpose and Impact26:47 Creating a Supportive Community30:28 Balancing Business and Life33:30 Gratitude and Perspective38:32 Invitation to Share Stories39:17 Conclusion and GratitudeMentioned in this episode:Timely💛 A Limited Time Offer From Our Amazing Sponsor, Timely 💛➡ Timely is the easy to use booking and payments system that puts salon owners in control of the whole client experience from the first booking to final payment.➡ Salon Rising listeners get a 14 day free trial plus 50% off their first 3 months.➡ And until August 1st, when you activate with Payments, you'll also get a free Touchscreen terminal, worth $349 + GST.Use the code SALONRISING at checkout or click the link below to get started. Once you're set up, your Timely contact will take care of the rest. 👇Timely💖 Celebrating Our Podcast Partner – Christophe Robin, proudly distributed by McM ImportsWe’ve partnered with Christophe Robin and MCM Imports to bring you something beautiful:➡ Experience the Christophe Robin Discovery Box — curated by pro ambassador Monique McMahon.➡ Inside, you’ll find her handpicked favourites — the hero products she swears by in the salon.It’s your invitation to explore the range and discover why Christophe Robin has become a quiet obsession among stylists who know their craft.Click the link below to request your FREE Christophe Robin Discovery Box, exclusively through McM Imports. 👇MCMhttps://www.salonrising.com