Secret Salon: How Megan Reinvented Herself at 35 and Opened a Salon Without Telling Anyone

Have a topic request or someone you think we should have on the pod?! Send us a text and let us know!What if you left a six-figure corporate job to chase a dream—without telling your family? That’s exactly what today’s guest, Megan Eilts, did. At 35, she walked away from the tech world and secretly built The Collective, a brand-new community-driven salon in Bloomington-Normal, Illinois—all before even enrolling in beauty school.In this episode, Megan shares:✨ The moment she knew she had to leave the tech industry✨ How she secured a salon space with zero financing✨ The challenges (and advantages) of opening a salon before becoming a licensed cosmetologist✨ Her vision for The Collective—a space built on education, collaboration, and community✨ Why she hasn’t told her family yet (and how she plans to reveal it!)✨ The power of trusting your gut and taking risks when everything alignsMegan’s story is a powerful reminder that success isn’t one-size-fits-all. Whether you’re dreaming of a major career pivot, salon ownership, or simply need a dose of inspiration, this episode is for you!🔗 RSVP for The Collective's Open House & "Pour & Preview" Event (Feb 26): https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScqaCQs6OAkLP1QgIkx8xLw4yjGBQlycOBsUpuW3cRpJjr__A/viewform📲 Follow Megan & The Collective on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecollective.normal/?igsh=MXJ5ZGh1ZG80ZDVzaQ%3D%3D#✨ Learn more about Stylist Soul Tribe: stylistsoultribe.comIf this episode resonated with you, screenshot and share it on Instagram—tag me @lisahuffhair and Megan @thecollective.normal so we can celebrate your big, bold moves together! 💫This summer I'm hosting the Summer Specialization Series: three live virtual panels on the specialties that are really taking off in the industry right now.June 29 — Hair Loss, Extensions, and Enhancements July 27 — Curly Hair August 31 — Scalp Health and Head SpasEach panel is $55, or grab all three for $111 and save.Grab your spot here: https://stylistsoultribe.mykajabi.com/2026-summer-seriesConnect with Lisa HuffInstagramFacebookYouTube