Successful Stylist Academy

Have you ever avoided a difficult conversation with your team, hoping it would resolve on its own? In this episode of the Successful Stylist Academy, Ambrosia Carey breaks down the real reason salon culture falls apart, and why it's not pricing, marketing, or retention… it's leadership. This conversation is for salon owners who are struggling with team dynamics, gossip, staff turnover, and the uncomfortable truth that the culture of your salon is a direct reflection of the conversations you are (or aren't) having. Backed by real industry data and personal experience, Ambrosia shares the true cost of avoidance, the most common leadership mistakes salon owners make, and a clear 4-step framework for having hard conversations with confidence. This isn't about being a better stylist, it's about becoming a better leader. Join The SSA LAB: https:Join The SSA LAB by @ambrosiacarey | Stan Get our FREE Client Retention Guide Get the Replay: Profit Maker Webinar Key Take-Aways: 1. Avoiding hard conversations doesn't protect your team, it protects the behavior that is driving your best people away. 2. Salon culture is not built through policies or meetings, it is shaped by the conversations you choose to have and the ones you avoid. 3. High staff turnover in salons is often not a compensation issue, it is a leadership and culture problem rooted in poor communication. 4. Indirect communication (group texts, vague meetings, passive reminders) weakens leadership credibility and rarely solves the issue. 5. Gossip is inevitable in close team environments, but failing to address it directly allows it to become part of the culture. 6. The fear of "losing a stylist" often leads to protecting the wrong person, while your strongest team members quietly disengage or leave. 7. The cost of avoiding conversations compounds over time, what could be solved in minutes can turn into full team breakdowns. 8. Effective leadership conversations require privacy, clear observation (not accusation), curiosity, and defined expectations. 9. Clarity is kindness; when expectations and consequences are not communicated, it creates confusion and erodes trust. 10. The culture of your salon is a direct reflection of your behavior as a leader, your team will mirror what you tolerate and model. Take 15% off our favorite skincare line, Pharmagel with code SSA15: https://pharmagel.net/?ref=SSA15 Find us on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@successfulstylist Might as well follow us on Instagram ;) @successfulstylistacademy

What happens when you've built a successful career as a hairstylist or salon owner, but it no longer lights you up? In this episode of the Successful Stylist Academy, Ambrosia Carey dives into one of the most uncomfortable and rarely talked about realities in the beauty industry: outgrowing your own success. From burnout caused by success (not failure), to the difference between scarcity and abundance mindsets, this episode explores how to navigate the next chapter of your career without blowing everything up...or staying stuck. If you've ever felt fully booked, financially stable, and still unsure if this is what you want long-term… this conversation is for you.  Join us over at the SSA LAB, get instant access to private videos & resources: Join The SSA LAB by @ambrosiacarey | Stan Here's our Free Marketing Guide Take 50% off 2 months of GlossGenius Gold or Platinum with code SUCCESSFUL: http://glossgenius.com/successfulstylist Key Take-aways: 1. Burnout doesn't always come from struggling, it often comes from succeeding at something that no longer aligns with who you're becoming. 2. The question "what do I do when this no longer lights me up?" isn't a crisis, it's a sign you've built something real enough to outgrow. 3. Most stylists operate in a scarcity mindset without realizing it, which shows up in comparison, fear-based decisions, and reactive behavior. 4. Abundance thinking isn't about positivity...it's about strategy, ownership, and building systems that support growth. 5. The difference between stylists who stay stuck and those who grow is often the language they use: both out loud and internally.  6. Success in the industry doesn't guarantee fulfillment, and evolving your path is a natural part of long-term growth. 7. Courage, not confidence, is what allows you to make aligned decisions, especially when something no longer feels right. 8. Many stylists never face this question because they never build enough success to outgrow...making this a higher-level problem. 9. You don't need to blow up your career or stay stuck, you need to get honest about what your current success has taught you. 10. The three most important questions to ask yourself are: what makes time disappear, what have you learned that's more valuable than the work itself, and what would you build if money wasn't the deciding factor. Our Talk on Confidence Vs Courage: https://youtu.be/XAIKC_Y71Ts?si=cBQ8Afpqwk-bCkE1 Take 15% off our favorite skincare line, Pharmagel with code SSA15: https://pharmagel.net/?ref=SSA15 If you prefer video, we are on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@successfulstylist Find us on your preferred social media platform: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/successfulstylistacademy?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw== TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@successfulstylistacademy?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc

AI isn't replacing hairstylists, but it is changing your clients, their spending habits, and how they choose who to book with. In this episode, Ambrosia Carey breaks down what's really happening in the beauty industry and how stylists can use AI to their advantage instead of falling behind. From saving hours on admin work to improving client retention, pricing, and marketing, this episode walks you through 10 practical ways to work smarter, not harder. If your books feel less stable, your income feels tighter, or you're unsure how to adapt to industry changes, this episode will give you clear, actionable steps to create more consistency, efficiency, and long-term growth in your salon business. Want a simpler way to grow your business without burning out? SSA LAB is where we do that. Get 50% off Gold or Platinum GlossGenius for 2 months HERE: http://glossgenius.com/successfulstylist If you missed last weeks episode, tap HERE    Key Takeaways: 1. AI is not replacing hairstylists, but it is impacting clients' income and spending habits, making them more selective with appointments and services. 2. The biggest opportunity with AI is not job protection, but using it to save time, reduce admin work, and build a more efficient business. 3. Auditing your website with AI can quickly improve bookings by identifying confusion points and making your services and pricing easier for clients to understand. 4. Repurposing content using AI allows you to get more visibility and engagement without constantly creating new content from scratch. 5. Automating responses to common client questions can help you capture more bookings and reduce missed opportunities in your DMs. 6. Local SEO and consistent Google Business updates can significantly increase your visibility and help you stand out in your area. 7. Analyzing your schedule and pricing with AI can reveal where you're undercharging or spending too much time for too little return. 8. Tracking client retention and following up with past clients can create more stable, predictable income without needing more marketing. 9. Using AI for content research helps you speak directly to what clients are actively searching for and struggling with. 10. Creating simple product or affiliate systems allows you to generate additional income outside of working behind the chair. 11. AI can help identify blind spots in your business, allowing you to make clearer, more strategic decisions without emotional bias. 12. The real advantage in a more digital world is creating better in-person client experiences, as real connection becomes more valuable. Enjoy 15% off our favorite skincare line, Pharmagel with code SSA15: https://pharmagel.net/?ref=SSA15 If you prefer viedeo, join us on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@successfulstylist For more, follow along on Instagram

In this episode of the Successful Stylist Academy Podcast, Ambrosia Carey breaks down why being fully booked does not always lead to financial stability in the salon industry. If you are a hairstylist or salon owner who feels constantly busy but still stressed about money, inconsistent income, or burnout, this episode will help you understand what is actually happening behind the scenes. Ambrosia explains how rising costs, outdated pricing, and lack of structure are creating hidden gaps in salon businesses, and why adding more clients is often making the problem worse instead of better. You will learn how to identify where your business is leaking money, how to shift your thinking around growth, and what small changes can start creating more stability without working more hours. This episode also explores the mindset patterns that keep stylists stuck, including avoiding necessary changes, overvaluing busyness, and chasing the wrong version of success. If you are ready to build a more profitable, sustainable business that actually supports your life, Join SSA LAB Membership: https://stan.store/ambrosiacarey Try GlossGenius at 50% off with code SUCCESSFUL: http://glossgenius.com/successfulstylist Get your hands on our FREE full proof profit maker here: https://small-kiwi-98108.myflodesk.com/nlle1d1php Key Take-aways: 1. Being fully booked does not guarantee profitability, especially when pricing and business structure are not aligned with demand. 2. Rising costs in the beauty industry, including products and overhead, have increased by approximately 15–30%, meaning unchanged pricing results in reduced profit. 3. Most salon owners delay price increases by one to three years, which creates a growing gap between effort and actual income. 4. Client retention, including rebooking and referrals, has a greater impact on long-term income stability than constantly seeking new clients. 5. Many hairstylists rely on increasing technical skill to grow their business, but communication, trust, and client experience are often more influential in demand. 6. A poorly structured schedule, especially with high-effort services priced too low, leads directly to burnout without increasing profitability. 7. When a business depends entirely on the owner's time and presence, it limits scalability and creates long-term instability. 8. Adding more clients, services, or hours often increases complexity rather than solving the core issues within the business.   9. Sustainable growth requires a shift in thinking, including evaluating pricing, systems, and personal role within the business. 10. Defining success based on personal goals, rather than industry standards, is essential to building a business that feels both profitable and fulfilling. Enjoy 15% off our favorite skincare line, Pharmagel with code SSA15: https://pharmagel.net/?ref=SSA15 If you prefer viedeo, join us on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@successfulstylist  For more, follow along on Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/successfulstylistacademy/

If your salon chair isn't as consistent as you need it to be right now, not just busy some weeks, but truly stable and predictable, this episode is going to give you the four marketing moves that are actually working for salon businesses and hairstylists in today's economy. In this episode of the Successful Stylist Academy podcast, Ambrosia Carey breaks down the four highest ROI marketing strategies for salon owners, independent stylists, suite renters, and commission stylists who want more consistency in their bookings, more stability in their income, and a real plan for sustainable salon business growth.  Join the membership & get the support to grow your business: SSA LAB Take 50% off GlossGenius Gold or Platinum with code SUCCESSFUL: http://glossgenius.com/successfulstylist Get FREE access to our Marketing Guide: https://small-kiwi-98108.myflodesk.com/ke6k90nlq2 Key Take-aways: 1. Referrals and word of mouth remain the single highest-converting client acquisition channel in the salon industry. 2. More than 9 in 10 consumers trust personal recommendations over any form of advertising, and referred clients are four times more likely to send additional referrals, creating a compounding effect that fills chairs without paid marketing. 3. Google reviews are the silent sales team working for your salon 24 hours a day. 4. With 78% of potential clients checking reviews before booking and nearly half only considering salons with a 4.5-star rating or higher, your review profile is either closing or losing bookings every single day, and most stylists have no active system to generate them. 5. Client retention is the highest ROI move available to most salon businesses right now. 6. At five times the cost of acquiring a new client versus keeping an existing one, and with loyal clients spending 67% more per visit, stability behind the chair comes from deepening relationships with the clients already in your book, not constantly chasing new ones. >p> 7. TikTok is a local discovery engine that most salon businesses are not yet using strategically. 8. With searches up 40% year over year and a quarter of TikTok's user base not present on any other social platform, the stylists posting consistent, question-answering content on TikTok right now are reaching an audience their competitors cannot access anywhere else. Take 15% off our favorite skincare line, Pharmagel, with code SSA15: https://pharmagel.net/?ref=SSA15 Join us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/successfulstylistacademy/ YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@successfulstylist salon marketing, hairstylist business tips, how to get more salon clients, salon owner podcast, hair salon marketing strategy, client retention salon, how to fill your salon chair, referral marketing for salons, Google reviews salon, TikTok for hairstylists, salon business growth, independent stylist marketing, suite renter business tips, commission stylist income, salon owner success, beauty business podcast, hairstylist marketing 2026, how to grow a salon business, pre-booking clients salon, word of mouth marketing salon

If you've been modeling your content after hair influencers and your books still aren't where you want them to be, this episode is going to explain exactly why. The influencer playbook and the full-chair playbook are not the same thing, and confusing the two is quietly costing stylists clients, income, and confidence every single day. We also go somewhere most podcasts won't...a real, honest look at what brand deal culture actually looks like from the inside. The packed schedules, the last-minute invitations, the clients lost to trips, the contracts that disappear when a brand restructures. And then, how to pursue brand partnerships the right way if that's genuinely a goal of yours, including the mindset and reputation that actually gets you called back. Drop a Review & tell us what you thought of this episode! If you've been needing structure without pressure, you'll love the SSA LAB. Join now: Join The SSA LAB by @ambrosiacarey | Stan Take 50% off GlossGenius Gold or Platinum with code SUCCESSFUL: http://glossgenius.com/successfulstylist Get FREE access to our Marketing Guide: https://small-kiwi-98108.myflodesk.com/ke6k90nlq2 Key Take-aways: 1. Over 50% of content creators earn under $15,000 a year, the influencer income fantasy doesn't match the data. 2. Only 10% of influencers ever earn six figures annually. 3. Brand deal participation dropped from 94% to 78% in a single year as brands get more selective. 4. The question every potential client is asking when they find your page isn't about your formula, it's about whether they can trust you. 5. Client-getting content and follower-getting content serve completely different purposes and audiences. 6. 40% of Millennials get hair inspiration from Instagram, but inspiration and booking are not the same thing. 7. The average hairstylist stays in their job only 1–2 years — and it's rarely a talent problem. 8. Brand trips are often unpaid, last-minute, and logistically demanding in ways that never show up on Instagram. 9. The stylists who build lasting brand relationships say yes to everything, make no demands, and give more than they take. 10. Your chair is your foundation, brand work should never come at the cost of the clients who keep your business stable. 11. Getting clear on your own value is the antidote to comparison; not consuming less content, but knowing yourself well enough that the noise stops mattering. Take 15% off our favorite skincare line, Pharmagel with code SSA15: https://pharmagel.net/?ref=SSA15 We are also on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@successfulstylist

If you've made it through another packed week and still feel completely empty, not just tired, but wondering how much longer you can keep doing this, this episode is for you. This conversation explores the deeper reasons burnout happens, especially in the early years of a stylist's career, and why it is often caused by industry structure and unrealistic expectations rather than a lack of passion or talent. Ambrosia shares practical insight into the emotional labor of working behind the chair, the pressure of overbooking and overgiving, and the long-term damage that happens when stylists are taught to survive on hustle instead of sustainability.  If you have ever wondered why so many talented stylists leave the beauty industry too soon, or you are trying to build a career that feels profitable, fulfilling, and emotionally sustainable, this episode will give you a clearer lens on what needs to change and how to protect your future behind the chair. Join our Membership of like-minded creatives inside SSA LAB: https://stan.store/ambrosiacarey/p/join-the-ssa-lab-625nfqyp Take 50% off GlossGenius Gold or Platinum with code SUCCESSFUL: http://glossgenius.com/successfulstylist Our Client Retention FREE Guide: https://view.flodesk.com/pages/647fd023dfd04634e99767d4 Key Take-aways:   1. Burnout in the hair industry is often caused by salon structure, unrealistic expectations, and emotional pressure rather than a lack of love for doing hair. 2. Many hairstylists experience hidden burnout from overworking, overbooking, people pleasing, and carrying emotional labor for clients day after day. 3. Career longevity in the beauty industry requires more than technical skill; it also depends on boundaries, business awareness, and energy management. 4. Building a loyal client base is more sustainable than constantly chasing volume, and long-term stability often comes from retention rather than overfilling the books.   5. Proper scheduling and realistic pacing are essential for protecting creativity, physical energy, and emotional well-being behind the chair. 6. Understanding the business side of hair, including pricing, client retention, and long-term planning, can completely transform a stylist's career experience. 7. Emotional labor is one of the most overlooked parts of being a hairstylist, and acknowledging it is an important step toward building healthier systems and stronger boundaries. 8. Self-care for hairstylists is not just about wellness routines; it also includes building a business model that supports rest, clarity, and long-term success. 9. The most sustainable careers in the beauty industry are built with intention, strong systems, and a clear understanding of what supports both profit and peace. 10. A fulfilling hairstylist career is possible when passion is supported by strategy, emotional awareness, and a commitment to doing business differently. Take 15% off our favorite skincare line, Pharmagel with code SSA15: https://pharmagel.net/?ref=SSA15 If you prefer video, we are also on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@successfulstylist We have more educational videos on Instagram HERE

*]:pointer-events-auto scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]" dir="auto" tabindex="-1" data-turn-id= "6beda5db-b2e3-4162-a7b4-63cd51038025" data-testid= "conversation-turn-208" data-scroll-anchor="true" data-turn= "assistant"> If clients are suddenly stretching appointments or going quieter on bookings, this isn't the end of your business, but it does require a different strategy than what got you here. If clients are stretching appointments, asking more questions about cost, or simplifying services, this episode will help you understand what is happening and what to do next. Ambrosia explains why the beauty industry is often more resilient than other discretionary industries, how the "lipstick effect" applies to salon services, and why intentional spending does not automatically mean clients stop caring about their hair. She shares practical ways to strengthen retention, improve service structure, protect revenue, and communicate value more clearly during uncertain economic seasons. This conversation is especially important for hairstylists early in their careers, salon owners leading a team, and any beauty professional who wants to build a business that stays steady even when the economy feels unpredictable. Rather than operating from fear, this episode invites you to lead with clarity, strong systems, and smarter decision making. Get GlossGenius at 50% off with Code SUCCESSFUL & enjoy Gold or Platinum:http://glossgenius.com/successfulstylist Join the SSA LAB now & get instant access to our tools & videos: https://stan.store/ambrosiacarey/p/join-the-ssa-lab-625nfqyp Get our FREE Marketing Guide Here: https://small-kiwi-98108.myflodesk.com/ke6k90nlq2 Key Take-aways: 1. A recession simply means the economy slows down, spending becomes more intentional, and clients tend to delay or simplify purchases rather than stop spending altogether. 2. The beauty industry is not completely recession proof, but it has historically been more resilient than many other discretionary industries because hair is tied to confidence, identity, visibility, and routine maintenance. 3. When the economy tightens, clients often stretch appointments, simplify services, and ask more questions about cost, which means hairstylists need to offer thoughtful solutions instead of taking those shifts personally. 4. Marketing matters even more during uncertain times because clearly attracting and retaining ideal clients creates stronger relationships, better referrals, and more stability behind the chair. 5. Retention is more valuable than constant acquisition during economic slowdowns, and rebooking, follow up, personalization, and strong communication can stabilize income faster than chasing new clients. 6. Instead of lowering prices first, hairstylists can adjust the structure of their services by offering maintenance options, microservices, express appointments, or lower commitment versions of existing services. 7. Clients often need flexibility more than they need lower pricing, and hairstylists who clearly explain value, longevity, and strategic options are more likely to retain trust and loyalty. 8. Strong systems matter more than headlines, and slow seasons often expose weak points in consultations, cancellation enforcement, menu clarity, retail recommendations, and scheduling structure. 9. The most important numbers to track during uncertain times are average monthly revenue, average ticket, rebooking rate, and monthly break-even so you can respond from facts instead of fear. 10. Salon owners play a critical leadership role during economic pressure, and calm, clear communication helps stabilize teams far more effectively than panic pricing or reactive decisions. 11. Long-term salon success comes from steady systems, strong communication, clear numbers, and a willingness to adapt strategically rather than emotionally when the economy shifts. Enjoy 15% off our favorite skincare line, Pharmagel with code SSA 15: https://pharmagel.net/?ref=SSA15 If you prefew video, we are also on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@successfulstylist      

If something about your current salon situation feels off; the money isn't adding up, your hours don't match your take-home, or you're not sure if you're even being classified correctly, this episode will give you the clarity nobody in the industry is talking about openly. We're breaking down the real differences between commission, booth rental, and hybrid salon models, what's actually legal, and how to know which structure is built to support your career long term. If you've ever wondered whether your salon structure actually supports your long-term career, this conversation will bring clarity to the business side of the beauty industry. If you missed this story: Business Lessons of a Salon Owner Take 50% off GlossGenius Gold or Platnium with code SUCCESSFUL Join the SSA LAB now open, get access to our videos & introduce yourself inside the membership now! Key Take-aways: 1. Salon business models fall into three primary categories: commission (W2 employee), booth rental (independent business owner), and hybrid structures that combine elements of both. 2. Commission salons provide infrastructure, marketing, mentorship, and stability, making them ideal for stylists building clientele or those who prefer focusing on artistry instead of business operations. 3. Booth rental offers greater autonomy and earning potential but requires strong business skills, consistent clientele, clear boundaries, and long-term financial planning. 4. A common industry mistake is misclassifying stylists as 1099 contractors while maintaining employee-level control over scheduling, pricing, or policies...which can lead to serious tax penalties. 5. True hybrid salon models only work when roles, contracts, and expectations are clearly defined between employees and independent renters. 6. Independence in the beauty industry requires systems, organization, and consistent growth efforts, not just the courage to leave a commission salon. 7. Salon owners often struggle with balancing control and culture; sustainable team environments are built through clarity, value, and leadership rather than restriction. 8. Successful salon businesses recognize individual strengths within their team instead of forcing stylists into rigid, one-size-fits-all performance systems. 9. Before accepting any salon position, stylists should ask key questions about classification, pricing control, scheduling authority, education opportunities, and written agreements. 10. No salon structure is inherently superior, the right model depends on the stylist's current season of career, financial readiness, and personal goals. 11. Long-term success in the beauty industry comes from understanding business structure, building sustainable systems, and choosing environments that support growth. Enjoy 15% off our favorite skincare line, Pharmagel with code SSA15: https://pharmagel.net/?ref=SSA15 If you prefer video, we are on YouTube as well! More educational content on Instagram

Something has shifted in the salon industry, and even stylists with full books are starting to feel it. If your business feels less stable than it used to, you're not imagining it, and this episode will tell you exactly what to do about it. Even stylists who are fully booked are starting to notice changes in client behavior, spending habits, and the rhythm of their schedules. The question many professionals are asking is: "If I'm still busy, why doesn't my business feel as stable as it used to?" Ambrosia explains that what the industry is experiencing right now isn't a crisis, but a correction. The beauty industry, like many service industries that rely on discretionary spending, naturally moves in cycles. During these periods, clients don't disappear, they simply become more intentional with their appointments and spending. This episode focuses on how hairstylists can respond strategically rather than emotionally during tighter seasons. Ambrosia shares five practical steps salon professionals can take over the next 90 days to create more stability, improve profitability, and strengthen the long-term foundation of their business. If you missed this episode: How Hairstylists Should Raise Prices Join the Membership Waitlist Now Open! https://small-kiwi-98108.myflodesk.com/gnfbcgfrjq Enjoy GlossGenius Gold or Platinum at 50% off for 2 months using code SUCCESSFUL: http://glossgenius.com/successfulstylist Key Takeaways 1. The beauty industry moves in natural economic cycles, and slower seasons are often corrections rather than signs that your career is failing. 2. Many hairstylists feel busy but financially uncertain because small changes in client appointment frequency can disrupt the rhythm that keeps salon income stable. 3. Understanding which services generate the highest profit per hour can dramatically improve the structure and profitability of a salon business. 4. Small, consistent price adjustments are a form of business maintenance and help keep a salon financially sustainable as costs rise. 5. Reconnecting with past clients who haven't booked in six months is one of the most effective ways to rebuild your book without relying heavily on marketing.   6. Stability in a salon business often comes from improving structure through stronger consultations, clearer service offerings, and more intentional client maintenance plans. 7. Growth in the beauty industry doesn't always come from attracting more clients, but from improving the experience and value delivered to the clients you already serve. 8. Slow seasons can be the most powerful time to plant future seeds by improving your service menu, asking for reviews, organizing client notes, and strengthening your marketing foundation. 9. The stylists who build long careers are not the ones who avoid pressure but the ones who learn how to respond strategically when their business asks for the next level of clarity. 10. A sustainable beauty career is built through intentional growth, thoughtful planning, and small consistent improvements that compound over time. Enjoy 15% off our favorite skincare line, Pharmagel with code SSA15: https://pharmagel.net/?ref=SSA15 If you prefer viedeo, join us on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@successfulstylist For more, follow along on Instagram  

IIf you know your prices need to go up but you keep talking yourself out of it...worried clients will leave, or that you're not worth it yet, this episode is going to change the way you think about pricing forever. If you've ever felt nervous about charging more, worried about losing clients, or unsure how to communicate a price increase, this episode will give you a clear and practical strategy for moving forward. Ambrosia explains why regular price increases are essential for long-term success in the beauty industry and how inflation impacts hairstylists more than most service providers. She shares how a simple 3–5% annual increase can protect your income, prevent burnout, and allow your business to grow sustainably over time.   This episode also explores the emotional side of pricing, including the fear of rejection, scarcity mindset, and the psychological barriers that prevent many stylists from charging what they are truly worth. You'll learn how to communicate price adjustments clearly and professionally so your clients understand the value behind your services. Try GlossGenius Platinum or Gold at 50% off using code SUCCESSFUL: http://glossgenius.com/successfulstylist  Join us inside the SSA LAB Membership HERE: https://stan.store/ambrosiacarey Download our FREE Full Proof Profit Maker Enjoy 15% off our favorite skincare line, Pharmagel w/ code SSA15   Key Takeaways 1. Raising prices by 3–5% annually helps hairstylists keep up with inflation, maintain profitability, and build a sustainable long-term salon business. 2. Inflation affects hairstylists through rising supply costs, rent increases, and everyday business expenses, making regular price adjustments necessary for financial stability. 3. Clear and transparent communication about price increases helps clients feel informed and respected, reducing discomfort and maintaining trust. 4. Many hairstylists struggle with price increases because of psychological barriers such as fear of rejection and scarcity mindset rather than actual client resistance. 5. Emotional maturity in business decisions allows stylists to separate personal validation from pricing decisions and focus on long-term business health. 6. Sustainable pricing allows hairstylists to avoid burnout by working fewer hours while maintaining or increasing overall income.   7. Consistent pricing strategies help hairstylists build stable careers instead of reacting to financial stress with sudden large price increases. 8. Aligning pricing with value ensures hairstylists are compensated fairly for their skill level, experience, and ongoing education. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Raising Prices 01:25 Understanding the Fear of Price Increases 03:27 The Impact of Inflation on Pricing 08:42 Communicating Price Changes to Clients   13:00 Psychological Barriers to Raising Prices 19:39 Emotional Maturity in Business Decisions 23:30 Sustaining a Long-Term Business If you prefer video, we are on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@successfulstylist  Find us on Instagram for more hairstylist business tips:  https://www.instagram.com/successfulstylistacademy/

If you've been posting consistently and still not seeing results, this episode is going to change how you think about Instagram completely. We sat down with the Meta and Instagram team and got a direct look at what the platform is actually rewarding right now, and a lot of it isn't what the 'social media gurus' are teaching. Ambrosia discusses the shift from hashtags to keywords, how consistency trains the algorithm, and why Reels and Stories serve very different purposes in your content strategy. She also explains how engagement velocity impacts reach, why trial reels are an underrated feature, and how using Instagram's native tools can improve performance. This episode is designed for hairstylists and salon owners who want clear, realistic guidance on building a sustainable Instagram presence while staying authentic to their voice and brand. If you've ever felt overwhelmed by social media or unsure what actually matters anymore, this conversation will help simplify your approach and give you a strategic path forward. Join the SSA LAB Membership now! https://small-kiwi-98108.myflodesk.com/gnfbcgfrjq Get 2 months of GlossGenius Gold or Platnium for FREE use code SUCCESSFUL *]:pointer-events-auto scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]" dir="auto" tabindex="-1" data-turn-id= "request-WEB:c2ce3505-fbfa-4654-9f52-fc350f4a2490-171" data-testid= "conversation-turn-116" data-scroll-anchor="true" data-turn= "assistant"> Key Takeaways   1. Instagram is shifting toward prioritizing keywords over hashtags, which means hairstylists and salon owners should clearly describe their services and specialties in captions so the algorithm understands who to show their content to. 2. Consistency in posting helps train the Instagram algorithm to recognize your niche and audience, and a predictable posting rhythm often performs better than sporadic bursts of content.    3. Reels are essential for discoverability and attracting new clients, while Stories are better suited for nurturing relationships with the audience you already have. 4. Engagement velocity plays an important role in reach, and responding quickly to comments signals to the algorithm that your content is creating meaningful conversations.  5. Trial reels provide a valuable opportunity to test new content ideas and formats before sharing them with your full audience. 6. Using Instagram's native tools such as text overlays, captions, audio, and in-app editing features can improve both content quality and overall reach. 7. Carousel posts remain a powerful format because they retain viewer attention longer and allow stylists to communicate educational and high-value content more clearly. 8. Content performs best when it answers real questions and solves real problems for your audience rather than simply following trends. 9. Authenticity and clarity in messaging are more effective long-term strategies than chasing viral trends that do not align with your brand. 10. Regularly reviewing your content performance allows hairstylists and salon owners to refine their social media strategy and make better decisions about what to create next. Show Notes In this episode Ambrosia shares insights from a direct conversation with the Meta and Instagram team about how the platform is evolving and what hairstylists need to understand in order to stay relevant and visible.  Listeners will learn why Instagram is becoming more keyword-driven, how posting consistency influences reach, and how stylists can simplify their content strategy without feeling overwhelmed. This conversation also covers the difference between Reels and Stories, the role of engagement and response time, and how using Instagram's built-in tools can improve results. This episode is especially helpful for hairstylists and salon owners who want to build a stronger online presence, attract ideal clients, and grow their business through intentional content creation. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Successful Stylist Academy Podcast 00:22 Insights from Meta and Instagram Team 04:14 Understanding Instagram's Algorithm and Content Strategy 08:14 The Importance of Consistency in Posting 12:51 Stories vs. Reels: Understanding Their Roles 17:40 Utilizing Instagram's Tools and Features 22:14 The Shift in Reels Length and Content Engagement 26:29 The Power of Keywords Over Hashtags  30:54 Engagement Strategies and Community Building 31:50 Find more on Instagram  Enjoy 15% off our favorite skincare line, Pharmagelm using code SSA15: https://pharmagel.net/?ref=SSA15 If you prefer video, we are on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@successfulstylist      

If your entire client growth strategy depends on social media, your business is more fragile than you think. This episode is about building a marketing foundation that fills your books through referrals, Google reviews, and client retention...the things that actually drive 62% of new salon clients, not your follower count. Ambrosia shares practical marketing strategies for sustainable business growth, emphasizing client retention, referral systems, and Google reviews as foundational drivers of salon success. She challenges listeners to rethink their approach to marketing and consider whether their business could thrive without social media dominating their strategy. If you're a stylist or salon owner looking to build a more grounded and profitable beauty business, this conversation will shift your perspective. Get 2 months of GlossGenius Gold or Platnium for FREE with code SUCCESSFUL: http://glossgenius.com/successfulstylist Enjoy our Marketing Guide Freebie: https://small-kiwi-98108.myflodesk.com/ke6k90nlq2 Join the SSA LAB Membership Waitlist here: https://small-kiwi-98108.myflodesk.com/gnfbcgfrjq Key Takeaways: 1. If social media disappeared tomorrow, would your beauty business still grow? 2. Many beauty professionals feel overwhelmed by the constant pressure of social media marketing. 3. Client referrals account for 62% of new clients, making relationship building essential. 4. Google reviews significantly impact client bookings and salon visibility. 5. Focusing on client retention creates more sustainable business growth than chasing new followers. 6. Social media should complement your marketing strategy, not control it. 7. Authentic content builds stronger engagement than perfection-driven posting. 8. Collaborative efforts and community support expand your reach without algorithm pressure. 9. Tracking key business metrics helps beauty professionals make informed decisions. 10. Long-term salon success comes from systems, referrals, and meaningful client relationships. Take 15% off our favorite skincare line, Pharmagel with code SSA15: https://pharmagel.net/?ref=SSA15 Find us on Instagram for more buisness tips: https://www.instagram.com/successfulstylistacademy/ If you prefer video: https://youtube.com/@successfulstylist?si=-GLeHybcbHMmkq0t  

The salon model you're working in right now is either supporting your goals or quietly working against them, and most stylists don't realize it until they're already burned out or broke. This episode breaks down the real differences between commission salons, rental suites, and everything in between, so you can make a decision that's built around the career and life you actually want. Ambrosia shares practical insight on how to build confidence behind the chair while also understanding profit, pricing, and financial planning. This episode encourages beauty professionals to think critically about their business choices, personal goals, and the kind of life they want to design. If you missed the previous episdoe: What Goes into A Million Dollar Salon. This is the High Yeild Savings Account Ambrosia uses: https://www.marcus.com/share/AMB-9K4-NTGI Join the SSA LAB Waitlist here: https://small-kiwi-98108.myflodesk.com/gnfbcgfrjq Key Takeaways: 1. Independent suites and rental models are rapidly rising and reshaping salon business models. 2. The most successful stylists blend independence with strong mentorship and support systems. 3. Niche mastery builds confidence, clear branding, and more consistent clientele.   4. Marketing strategies should be intentional, simple, and focused on real client connection. 5. Operational confidence helps stylists understand profit instead of guessing at income. 6. A supportive salon culture increases career longevity and job satisfaction. 7. Life goals should guide which business model a stylist chooses. 8. Financial advice and investing are essential parts of long-term stylist success. 9. Transparency with clients strengthens loyalty and trust. 10. Sustainable growth comes from clarity, systems, and aligned decision making. Try out 2 month of GlossGenius Gold or Platinum free HERE: http://glossgenius.com/successfulstylist Take 15% off our favorite skincare line, Pharmagel with code SSA15: https://pharmagel.net/?ref=SSA15 Find us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/successfulstylistacademy/

A million-dollar salon sounds like the dream, until you find out the profit margin is often single digits. Before you set your sights on scaling big, this episode will give you the honest financial picture that most business coaches aren't sharing: what 7 figures actually costs, and how to decide if it's really the goal you want to chase. This conversation challenges the fantasy of rapid business growth and invites stylists and owners to redefine salon success in a way that protects both profit and personal peace. Our Business Membership, SSA LAB is about to open! Enter the Waitlist now: https://small-kiwi-98108.myflodesk.com/gnfbcgfrjq Get 2 months of GlossGenius Gold or Platinum on us linked here: http://glossgenius.com/successfulstylist Key Takeaways: 1. Building a seven-figure salon is impressive but comes with heavy responsibilities. 2. The fantasy of 7 figures often overlooks the reality of salon costs and overhead. 3. Profit margins for salons over a million dollars are typically single digits. 4. Success should not be tied solely to revenue; emotional well-being matters just as much. 5. Unexpected expenses can significantly impact true profitability. 6. It's important to plan for profit and account for every layer of financial planning. 7. More revenue often means more obligations, leadership demands, and stress. 8. Redefining success can lead to a healthier work-life balance and better entrepreneurship choices. 9. Don't romanticize million-dollar months without understanding the real margins. 10. Building a supportive team can help manage the complexities of seven-figure salon management. Get 15% off our favorite skincare line, Pharmagel using code SSA15: https://pharmagel.net/?ref=SSA15

In this episode of the Successful Stylist Academy podcast, Ambrosia Carey breaks down how client booking expectations are evolving in 2026. Learn how automation, transparency, personalization, and seamless systems can improve client trust, reduce no-shows, and create a modern booking experience that supports long-term salon growth. Get 50% off GlossGenius Gold or Platinum for 2 months with code SUCCESSFUL We are choosing 5 Reviewers for a Marketing Strategy call with Ambrosia. Leave your Review HERE. Key Take-aways: 1. Client expectations around booking have shifted dramatically, and stylists who haven't adapted are quietly losing bookings. 2. Today's clients expect access. A 24/7 online booking system isn't a luxury anymore, it's the baseline. If clients can't book when it's convenient for them, they'll move on quickly.  3. Automation plays a critical role in reducing no-shows and cancellations. Automated reminders and confirmations help protect your time while supporting clients with clear communication.  4. Every extra step in the booking process creates friction. Complicated forms, unclear instructions, or delayed responses can quietly erode trust, loyalty, and revenue.  5. Personalized follow-ups matter more than ever. Clients want to feel remembered and valued, and thoughtful touchpoints after booking can dramatically improve retention.  6. Transparency in pricing builds confidence. When clients clearly understand what they're booking and what it costs, it reduces hesitation and strengthens trust before they ever sit in your chair.  7. Clients are researching stylists before they book. Your website, booking flow, and online presence are part of the client experience long before the appointment happens.  8. Technology should support the human experience, not replace it. The most successful systems enhance connection, clarity, and ease rather than creating distance.  9. Offering clients options in how they communicate: whether through text, email, or booking platforms, creates a more inclusive and satisfying experience.  10. A seamless booking process doesn't just make life easier, it builds loyalty. When clients feel respected, informed, and supported, they're more likely to return and refer.  11. Understanding and adapting to modern client expectations is one of the most important skills for stylists who want to thrive in the evolving salon industry.  Get 15% off our favorite skincare line, Pharmagel with code SSA15: https://pharmagel.net/?ref=SSA15

In the fast-paced world of hairstyling, it's easy to feel stuck in "artist mode"...busy, talented, and booked, yet still overwhelmed and unsure how to scale. In this Successful Stylist Academy podcast breakdown, Ambrosia Carey shares how adopting a Salon CEO mindset can transform your income, schedule, and long-term business success without abandoning the artistry that made you fall in love with the industry. You'll learn why mindset is a direct driver of revenue, boundaries, and growth strategy, how the comfort-zone trap can keep even high-performing stylists stuck, and why creativity deserves structure. This episode is a powerful reminder that the next level of success doesn't come from doing more, it comes from thinking differently, building systems, and shifting your identity from service provider to strategic business leader.  Free Full Proof Profit Maker Webinar Here: https://small-kiwi-98108.myflodesk.com/ao7u0l0qzq Tap if you missed the 5% Client Retention Rule 1. Transitioning into a Salon CEO mindset is essential for long-term growth because your identity influences how you price, market, set boundaries, and lead your business strategy.   2. Staying in "artist mode" can feel safe and productive, but it often creates stagnation by keeping you busy with familiar tasks instead of pushing you toward the changes that unlock higher income and stability. 3. The comfort-zone trap is real: growth requires embracing discomfort, making calculated decisions, and stepping into leadership even when it feels unfamiliar. 4. Structure strengthens creativity, when you pair your artistry with strategy, systems, and a long-term vision, your talent becomes more profitable, consistent, and sustainable. 5. Working on your business (not just in it) is the difference between short-term survival and long-term success, because strategy time creates clarity, improves retention, and reduces chaos. 6. Creating space for thinking and decision-making helps prevent burnout, because new outcomes can't be created from constant stress, overextension, and reactive scheduling. 7. You don't have to abandon your artistry to be a CEO, you're learning to protect it with leadership, boundaries, and a business model that supports your life, not just your calendar. Get 15% off our favorite skincare line, Pharamgel with code SSA15: https://pharmagel.net/?ref=SSA15 personal growth, overcoming challenges, self-awareness, stress reduction, clarity, roadmap to success  

Are you exhausted from constantly chasing new clients on Instagram, TikTok, and referral apps, but not seeing your income reflect how hard you work behind the chair? In this episode, Ambrosia Carey breaks down the data-backed 5% client retention rule and shows you how a tiny improvement in retention can boost your salon revenue by 25–95% without adding more days, longer hours, or triple-booking chaos. If you're a hairstylist, colorist, booth renter, or salon owner who wants to build a sustainable, freedom-based beauty business, this conversation walks you through the difference between client acquisition and client retention, why social media can't be your only growth strategy, and how top-performing salons retain more first-time guests and turn them into loyal, high-value clients. You'll learn simple, repeatable systems you can plug into your existing booking software to stabilize your income, pre-book smarter, and create a client experience that feels elevated, personal, and totally on-brand. If you've been craving a clear roadmap to become the go-to stylist in your market, increase your rebook rate, and build a waitlist-worthy beauty business, this episode is for you. Watch our FREE Profit Maker Webinar Replay HERE: https://small-kiwi-98108.myflodesk.com/ao7u0l0qzq   Enjoy our Marketing Guide Freebie HERE: https://small-kiwi-98108.myflodesk.com/ke6k90nlq2 Share your experience and leave us a review HERE: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/successful-stylist-academy/id1584273127 *]:pointer-events-auto scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]" dir="auto" tabindex="-1" data-turn-id= "0b4ed4a1-7070-4b95-9701-7f8a5b801a6c" data-testid= "conversation-turn-8" data-scroll-anchor="true" data-turn= "assistant"> Key Takeaways 1. A small 5% increase in client retention can raise your profitability by 25–95%, making retention one of the most powerful levers for growing your salon income without adding more hours behind the chair. 2. Top-performing salons rely on new clients for only about 10% of their total revenue; the rest comes from returning guests who pre-book, buy retail, say yes to add-ons, and refer friends, because the experience is consistent and predictable. 3. Client acquisition (CAC) is expensive in both money and energy: think content creation, DMs, inquiries, and ad spend, while a retained client costs virtually zero to reacquire and is far easier to serve at a higher level. 4. Retention is not about perfection; it's about a repeatable client journey: clear consultation, simple at-home routines, a strong checkout process, and an agreed-upon maintenance schedule that protects your client's hair and your time. 5. A simple three-touch system: post-visit check-in, midpoint reminder, and pre-book or follow-up nudge, can dramatically reduce ghosting, extend the lifetime value of each guest, and make your income more stable month after month. 6. Low pre-booking rates and stretched-out maintenance cycles are not marketing problems, they're communication problems; tightening how you talk about timing, pricing, and future appointments can quickly improve your retention numbers. 7. You don't need "more clients" to grow; you need to deepen the relationship with 80–120 ideal clients who feel seen, cared for, and excited to come back. Freeing up your calendar and nervous system so you can pursue education, brand partnerships, or salon ownership without burning out. 8. By focusing on one improvement (like pre-booking, consultation, or checkout) and tracking one number for 90 days, you can increase your retention by 15% and build a more profitable, sustainable, and freedom-based beauty business. For more tips, find us on Instagram Subscribe on YouTube for updates Take 15% off our favorite skincare line, Pharmagel with code SSA15: https://pharmagel.net/?ref=SSA15      

In this episode of the Successful Stylist Academy Podcast, Ambrosia pulls back the curtain on one of the most confusing parts of running a profitable business as an independent stylist or salon owner: where your money actually goes. Instead of just looking at your bank balance and hoping for the best, she walks you through a simple "waterfall" visual so you can see how every dollar flows through your business, into costs, marketing, overhead, education, and finally: profit. You'll learn realistic percentage benchmarks for each category, the most common money leaks that silently eat into your income, and how to fix them without adding more hours behind the chair. If you've ever felt busy but not truly profitable, this conversation will help you reclaim your confidence, your cash flow, and your long-term freedom. Get FREE access to our Creative Service Profit Maker Webinar now!  The booking software that makes my job easier is GlossGenius with AI support to make tasks as simple as clicking a button! Try it out for 2 weeks FREE: https://glossgenius.biz/AmbrosiaCarey Want more episodes like this? Drop a review here & tell us what you want to hear more of: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/successful-stylist-academy/id1584273127 Key Take-Aways: 1. Think of your business like a waterfall, not just a bank balance. 2. Money flows from the faucet into a series of "glass cups" : direct costs, client acquisition, overhead, growth, and finally profit. 3. When you see each glass clearly, you stop assuming all the money in your bank account is truly yours and start treating it as money with a job.   4. Get clear on your direct costs (COGS) so every bowl of color is profitable.  5. Direct costs include anything you touch, mix, or use on your client: color, lightener, developer, foils, gloves, towels, shampoo, conditioner, cleaning supplies, and even credit card fees.  6. Aim to keep these costs around 10–12% of your total revenue, and know that once you creep toward 15–20%, it is a danger zone and a clear sign you need a price increase.  7. Stop overordering and start pricing services with product usage in mind. 8. Common leaks include buying too much inventory, letting products expire, turning unsold retail into backbar, and never updating prices when suppliers raise theirs. 9. Fix this by using systems or software to track inventory, calculating your cost per scoop or per gram, and doing a quick monthly inventory check so your shelves are lean and intentional, not a graveyard of old product.   10. Track your Customer Acquisition Cost (CAC) so your marketing actually pays you back. 11. Your CAC includes ads, promos, new client discounts, referral rewards, branding shoots, social media time, website, and booking software that help you get clients in the door. 12. A healthy benchmark is 5–10% of your revenue, and a simple formula is: if you spend $200 on ads and get 5 new clients, your CAC is $40 per client and each client should bring in at least four times that in lifetime value.   13. Prioritize retention over constant hustle for new clients. 14. Common mistakes are chasing visibility without conversion, not tracking where new clients come from, and focusing more on strangers online than on the guests already in your chair. 15. Track first-time versus repeat clients monthly, create a simple referral system with a clear reward, and double down on the platforms and efforts that are actually sending you clients, not just likes.  16. Audit your overhead before it quietly drains your profit. 17. Overhead includes rent or booth rent, utilities, Wi-Fi, insurance, software, accounting, subscriptions, cleaning, payroll taxes, and benefits. 18. Ideally, this lands between 35–45% of your total revenue, and when it creeps toward 50% or higher, you either need to cut costs, raise prices, or both to keep your business from tipping upside down.   19. Be ruthless with subscriptions and intentional with tax planning. 20.Typical leaks are paying for apps and tools you no longer use, overspending on décor or space that does not match your income level, and failing to save ahead for taxes. 21. Quarterly, comb through subscriptions, automate your bookkeeping and reports, and move around 30% of your profit into a separate tax or high-yield savings account so you are not surprised at year-end.  22. Treat education, events, and travel as growth costs; not automatic write-offs. 23. Hair shows, classes, coaching, membership programs, flights, hotels, and meals are powerful when they are strategic, but expensive when they are random. 24. Try to keep these growth costs under about 8–10% of your annual revenue, give every class a clear action plan for how you will turn it into income, and look for ways to turn trips into content, offers, or digital assets you can reuse.   25. Decide how your profit will be divided before it hits your account. 26. Profit is what remains after all buckets are filled, and it is not the same as your paycheck.  27. A sample breakdown is: 30% for taxes, 10% for emergency reserves, 10–15% to reinvest in education, marketing, or tools, and 45–55% to pay yourself, so every dollar has a purpose instead of disappearing.  28. Do a simple money audit and fix just one leak this month. 29. Look at last month's income and write down what you spent on supplies, client acquisition, overhead, and education, then see what was truly left as profit.   Get 15% off Pharmagel, our favorite skincare line with code SSA15: http://www.pharmagel.net/discount/ssa15?redirect=%2F%3Fafmc%3Dssa15  

Offering extensions can transform your average ticket, attract premium clients, and position you as an expert. In this episode I break down how to use "scholarship" (free-labor) installs to sprint your social proof, fill your portfolio, and raise prices with confidence, without giving away the store. You'll get scripts, a 7-day action plan, and the math to make it smart. Get FREE access to our profit making webinar: https://small-kiwi-98108.myflodesk.com/ao7u0l0qzq Get 20% off your first order & subscribe to Rooted Hair for ongoing deals & education: https://rootedhair.ca/ Key Take-aways: 1. Free or low-cost installs are not "giving away time" — they're a strategic investment that builds your portfolio, confidence, and social proof. 2. Choose models intentionally; their hair, vibe, and reliability should match your dream client. 3. Always do an in-person consultation to assess density, texture, lifestyle, and realistic expectations. 4. Use model installs to capture strong content: videos, transformations, reactions, and movement shots. 5. Set clear expectations — free installs do not include free maintenance. 6. Outline deliverables for your model such as tags, testimonials, or specific content requirements. 7. Recommend the extension method that fits the client's hair and lifestyle, not just what you want to showcase. 8. Present your offer as a structured model call, not a giveaway. 9. Use the model period for testing, check-ins, and refining your technique and systems. 10. Limit freebies to maintain value and avoid attracting bargain-hunters. 11. Avoid models needing heavy color correction — it adds unpaid hours and unpredictable results. 12. Use team members as in-salon models to build credibility and visibility. 13. Start with a small beta group to gather feedback, testimonials, and repeat business. 14. Track long-term earnings — even a handful of models can generate thousands in yearly maintenance revenue. 15. Practice before launching publicly; confidence grows through private reps and real clients. 16. Streamline your technique — clients value efficient installs just as much as luxury experiences. 17. Avoid selecting models strictly through DMs; refusals to consult in person are red flags. 18. Remember: free installs are an intentional investment that fuel your launch, proof, and profitability. Take 15% off our favorite skincare line, Pharmagel with code SSA15: https://pharmagel.net/?ref=AMBROSIAMANN  

What is HairAid and how can a hairstylist actually change a life in one week? Ambrosia talks with Alannah Zilkowsky (HairAid project lead) and Corey/Hairdustry about HairAid's volunteer-led projects in Cambodia, the Philippines, Indonesia, Thailand, and Guatemala. Learn how teams teach core foundational haircuts in less than a week, why graduates can earn income immediately, who can volunteer (you don't need to be an educator), costs and logistics, real success stories, and why many stylists return feeling re-energized and burnout-free. If you've wondered how to use your salon skills for global impact, this is your playbook. Catch the Profit Marker Replay HERE: https://small-kiwi-98108.myflodesk.com/ao7u0l0qzq To learn more about HairAid: https://hairaid.org.au/ 1. HairAid is a volunteer-led charity that teaches core foundational haircuts in less than a week, so people in extreme poverty can earn income immediately. 2. You don't need to be an "educator" to serve basic skills. Willingness to follow HairAid's method, and a servant mindset are enough.   3. Projects operate in countries like Cambodia, the Philippines, Indonesia, Thailand, and Guatemala, partnering with local NGOs for lasting impact.   4. Students often experience their first formal education on day one, and by day's end they complete a live one-length cut with guidance.   5. The curriculum covers greeting, tools, sectioning, one-length, V-shape, long layers, round layers, graduated bob, and short cuts (adapted per location).   6. Impact is immediate: graduates open micro-salons, support families, and even return as translators/trainers, creating ripple effects.   7. Volunteers report personal transformation, learning presence, surrender, and gratitude, often returning re-energized and cured of burnout.   8. HairAid's logistics remove guesswork: pre-trip packets, packing lists, cultural notes, training videos, and on-ground induction day. 9. Typical projects host 12–18 volunteers; costs include a volunteer fee plus flights, many stylists fundraise via clients and salon events. 10.  Common fears (cost, travel, "am I good enough?") are normal; pairing with experienced leads and teammates makes it manageable. 11. Service extends beyond the classroom: HairAid supports local social enterprises (hotels, eateries) to uplift the wider community. 12. Post-COVID rebuilding means fewer trips now, with more locations returning; connections on the ground help open future countries.  13. You can contribute even if you're not ready to travel: share the mission, sponsor a volunteer, or connect HairAid to credible local partners.  14. Bringing a spouse or friend is welcome, non-stylists can help with admin, cross-checks, or allied community projects.  1 5. Big picture: teaching a skill changes a life, restores dignity, and builds community, while reminding us why this industry matters. Get 15% off Pharmagel, our favorite skincare line by entering code SSA15: http://www.pharmagel.net/discount/ssa15?redirect=%2F%3Fafmc%3Dssa15

Your time is your most valuable and limited business asset. In this episode, Ambrosia Carey reveals how to calculate your true hourly rate, spot hidden time drains, and protect your schedule so your business actually works for you. Perfect for hairstylists, salon owners, and creative entrepreneurs ready to scale without burning out. Get your free time tracker here: https://small-kiwi-98108.myflodesk.com/cm08owklix Watch our FREE profit maker webinar here: https://small-kiwi-98108.myflodesk.com/ao7u0l0qzq Key Take-Aways: 1. No one talks about the one asset you can't raise… your time. 2.If you've ever spent hours prepping for a client just to break even, delivered amazing work that took more out of you than it gave back, it might be worthwhile to track you time. 3. Time is your most limited, non-renewable resource. Money can be replaced. 4. Time is the invisible labor in your business, from admin to prep, content creation, client communication, setup, cleanup, and everything in between. 5. Calculate how much time went into prep, during, and post. Then subtract taxes, fees, and costs which will bring your real return. 6. Hidden time costs are everywhere. From travel time you don't bill for, to client follow-ups on your days off, to team management and inventory issues, it all adds up. 7. Here's how to protect and optimize your time: Create repeatable processes, batch content and communication, schedule work during your best energy hours, use time-based pricing, and track your time for one week to see where your hours actually go. 8. Scaling isn't just adding clients, it's reclaiming time so you can build with intention. 9. If you're ready to protect your time, grab my free Time Audit Worksheet: a simple guide to help you track your real time costs, calculate your hourly return, and identify where your time is being underpaid or unaccounted for. 10. Let's protect your time, and build something sustainable together. Join our Membership Waitlist Take 15% off our favorite skincare line, Pharmagel with code SSA15:  http://www.pharmagel.net/discount/ssa15?redirect=%2F%3Fafmc%3Dssa15 Email & text marketing is the quickest way to increase your income and GlossGenius has AI support to make this as simple as clicking a button! Try it out for 2 weeks FREE: https://glossgenius.biz/AmbrosiaCarey

As a hairstylist, increasing your income isn't always about adding more, it's about deepening the way you communicate, consult, and recommend. In this episode, we explore the mindset shifts and soft skills that make all the difference. You'll learn how to remove the ick from sales by shifting your focus from pushing to partnering. From understanding the stories you tell yourself about selling, to crafting recommendations that actually help your clients feel seen and supported, this conversation goes deep into what it truly means to build trust behind the chair. We'll talk about how retail becomes a tool for transformation, how to simplify your systems, and how the care you give can create a lasting foundation, not just for your client relationships, but for your career. If you've ever struggled with selling retail, felt weird bringing up products, or want to serve better and earn more, this episode is for you.   Download our FREE full proof profit maker HERE: https://small-kiwi-98108.myflodesk.com/nlle1d1php We would love to hear from you, drop a review & we will add you into our next giveaway: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/successful-stylist-academy/id1584273127 Key Take-aways: 1. Ways of creating opportunities can happen simply by focusing on a specific problem. 2. What are the stories you tell yourself when it comes to providing a service and sales? 3. Delivery is everything. If we learn to deliver differently, we remove the ick from sales. 4. The repulsive sales feeling comes from someone thinking they're trying to take something from us. 5. Care vs. Commission. 6. Start with the recommendation through the consultation. 7. It's more of a partnership with your client, and you want to work together. 8. Care can be both about the care of the hair with the result in mind, but it can also be about helping the client feel less overwhelmed & learning how to repeat what we do behind the chair.  9. If you don't know or like the product, it's hard to talk about it. 10. Impact happens with passing knowledge onto our clients, because they spend more time with their hair than we as service providers do. 11. Retail builds trust, which builds a different foundation, and career. 12. Soft skills should happen in beauty school & with mentorship. 13. The art of being seen & heard is repeating back what you hear. 14. Ask what might be missing before starting the service.  15. Every time a client comes to see you, they left some other place, and they're coming to you for a reason.   16. Technology has made it possible that we communicate less, but with our industry, we need to communicate more. 17.Communication skills are vital to a successful foundation. Learn more about people and how you can provide exceptional care.  18. Life is a mirror not a window. 19. We have processes & procedures for everything else in our service, do the same for retail. 20. 4 parts: Captivate, fascinate, educate, close. 21. Find out what's most important to your clients. Then find out the What, why, how, when. 22. For a low-performing stylist, find out why your clients aren't purchasing from you.   23. Coach to the habits, not the numbers. 24. Every day, pick up 2-3 products and get to know the product. You can find Kristie on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/kristie.theorie?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw== Email & text marketing is the quickest way to increase your income and GlossGenius has AI support to make this as simple as clicking a button! Try it out for 2 weeks FREE: https://glossgenius.biz/AmbrosiaCarey Get 15% off Pharmagel, our favorite skincare line with code SSA15: http://www.pharmagel.net/discount/ssa15?redirect=%2F%3Fafmc%3Dssa15    

In this episode, we sit down with Carrie Scott, Financial Advisor with Cetera Investors, to talk about building real, sustainable wealth as a creative business owner. Whether you're a hairstylist, solopreneur, or growing your side hustle, this conversation is packed with approachable tips on setting up financial systems, the biggest mistakes creatives make with money, how to plan for slow seasons and long-term wealth, shifting from hustle mode to intentional money moves. Carrie breaks down complex topics with warmth, clarity, and zero judgment. This is the episode every creative didn't know they needed.   Find Carrie Scott here: website: https://scottwealthmgmt.ceterainvestors.com/ or feel free to contact by email. Carrie recommends you read this book Our 6 figure stylist guide here: https://view.flodesk.com/pages/622541789b7136a9e313da40  Key Take-aways: 1. You can open a RothIRA for your working child to help them get started with their long term wealth building. 2. As a small business owner, look over your spending and income month to month & start with an emergency fund. 3. Set yourself up for success by putting yourself first and start investing for your future plan. 4. Would you rather pay yourself or the IRS? 5. The average age that someone starts to invest in their future is 40. Imagine what it would look like to start earlier. 6. Start with the end in mind. Have the final number you want to retire with and get clarity on what you should be putting away. 7. Monthly installments can help over the one lump sum to accrue interest over 8. Get the mindset of how you'll start your investment; short, medium, or long term for the best success.  9. Debt accrual is a financial killer and can hold you back from moving forward. Do you want to sacrifice now or later? 10. Index means the money is split between all companies. 11. Investing into a mutual fund or ETF is a safe way to invest. 12. A Simple IRA maxes at $16,500 for the year 2025 if you're under 50 & have at least 1 employee. There is no cost to set it up, and the employer has to match up to 2%. 13. SEP IRA is for a solo $70k per year or 25%. 14. Both Simple & SEP IRA's have matching as well as separate requirements.  15. If you put $300 away in an investment account, you're not actually putting away $300 because $80-100 would have been counted toward taxes, so your check looks like it drops closer to $200 instead. 16. Financial advisors not only help you with choosing how to invest in the right type of account to fit your needs a goals, they also help you come up with a plan to pay off debt, save, and get to your goals faster. 17.Short term typically don't have fees & don't pay much, intermediate (5+ year goal) mutual funds which compounds over time, but you don't have to be 59 ½ before you can touch the money. Long-term don't touch until you're 59 ½  18. IRS charges a 10% fee if you take money out prior to 59 ½  19. Annuities you don't have an age limit when you want to take money out of an account. You only pay taxes for the income, and it's a nice way to build a legacy and pass over the generations. 20. You have to take income at the age of 73 on your IRA. 21. CDs and HYSA (high-yield savings account) interest payments and terms change all the time. Email & text marketing is the quickest way to increase your income and GlossGenius has AI support to make this as simple as clicking a button! Try it out for 2 weeks FREE: https://glossgenius.biz/AmbrosiaCarey Get 15% off Pharmagel, our favorite skincare line with code SSA15: http://www.pharmagel.net/discount/ssa15?redirect=%2F%3Fafmc%3Dssa15  

Struggling to market your creative business or attract high-quality clients? In this episode, we join Jodie Brown who walks through the exact steps to define your ideal client, clarify your brand message, and choose the right marketing channels to grow your business. Learn why niching down helps you stand out, how to stop overthinking your content, and how to use repetition to build reputation. Whether you're a hairstylist, salon owner, or creative entrepreneur, this episode will help you simplify your strategy and create marketing that actually works. Get FREE access to our profit making webinar: https://small-kiwi-98108.myflodesk.com/ao7u0l0qzq Our 6 figure stylist guide here: https://view.flodesk.com/pages/622541789b7136a9e313da40  Key Take-aways: 1. When you find there is a need to solve, that's what shapes your marketing message. 2. Some people get confused with the type of clients they want to have vs the type of clients they're already attracting. 3. You attract what you project.  4. Identifying your ideal client is a fundamental must do. 5. Who are you talking to and what problem do you solve or what desire do you want to facilitate? 6. Why you? What is the unique way you'll solve your clients problems? 7. When you get those answers defined then you can choose your marketing channels. 8. Most businesses get hung up because they don't get specific enough. Niching down will always help you stand out.  9. A common mistake businesses make is thinking the can't post the same thing twice. 10. Marketing isn't about saying 100 different things, it's about saying 1 thing 100 different ways. 11. Repetition equals reputation. 12. Marketing yourself as a generalist can be harder, focus on the experience. 13. Three areas of focus to be successful in marketing your business are: website, Instagram, and email list. 14. The first step before coming up with a strategy is gaining clarity on your brand story. 15. Add a CTA (call to action) in your bio with an easy & structured way to guide visitors into clients. 16. Pinning a post with all of your important information is helpful as well. 17. Once you have clarity in your brand, have a structured way of funneling visitors into clients, then create your content plan. 18. Content is about bringing the foundations to life. You can find Align Creative Co on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/aligncreativeco?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw== Email & text marketing is the quickest way to increase your income and GlossGenius has AI support to make this as simple as clicking a button! Try it out for 2 weeks FREE: https://glossgenius.biz/AmbrosiaCarey Get 15% off Pharmagel, our favorite skincare line with code SSA15: http://www.pharmagel.net/discount/ssa15?redirect=%2F%3Fafmc%3Dssa15    

In this episode of the Successful Stylist Academy Podcast, we sit down with one of our Business Collective attendees, Vanessa Gross, to share her real, raw journey from working behind the chair to opening the doors of her very first salon. We dive into what inspired her leap, the mindset shifts she had to make, and the systems that helped her scale. If you've been thinking about salon ownership or looking for motivation to grow, this is the conversation you need to hear. Get FREE access to our profit making webinar: https://small-kiwi-98108.myflodesk.com/ao7u0l0qzq Our 6 figure stylist guide here: https://view.flodesk.com/pages/622541789b7136a9e313da40  Key Take-aways: 1. Apply your years of growth as a form of service toward others. 2. The beauty of being in a salon environment is passing along your knowledge and paying forward as a mentor. 3. Growth doesn't go without it's challenges, lean on others who want to help you, which is why Successful Stylist Academy exists.  4. Take your learning lessons as your strength.  5. Learning new tools and adding technology can introduce another branchs of creativity, revenue, and growth. 6. Focusing on your client growth and retention also supports your communication skills, confidence, and leadership. 7. Recognize when you've graduated to the next level and align with those who are at the same frequency. You can find Vanessa on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/vanessagrossstyle?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw== Email & text marketing is the quickest way to increase your income and GlossGenius has AI support to make this as simple as clicking a button! Try it out for 2 weeks FREE: https://glossgenius.biz/AmbrosiaCarey Get 15% off Pharmagel, our favorite skincare line with code SSA15: http://www.pharmagel.net/discount/ssa15?redirect=%2F%3Fafmc%3Dssa15    

What separates a good stylist from a great one? In this episode, we sit down with industry educator Katie Alm to talk about the unspoken habits and mindset shifts that set top stylists apart in today's competitive beauty industry. We cover everything from discipline, professional growth, and being of service — to why collaboration will always outlast comparison. Whether you're a salon assistant, an independent stylist, or a beauty educator, this episode dives deep into the leadership skills, daily discipline, and client-first mindset that fuel long-term success behind the chair. If you're looking to grow your beauty business, avoid burnout, and build a sustainable career in the salon industry — this one's for you. If you missed part 1: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/successful-stylist-academy/id1584273127?i=1000702210150 Get FREE access to our profit making webinar: https://small-kiwi-98108.myflodesk.com/ao7u0l0qzq Our 6 figure stylist guide here: https://view.flodesk.com/pages/622541789b7136a9e313da40  Key Take-aways: 1. If you want more opportunities, be willing to be available and be of service. Let no task be below you.  2. As an educator or leader, the person who is helping you is the most important person while under your care. 3. If someone challenges you when learning, let them. For every stylist that challenges you, there are 2-3 that won't.  4. How someone approaches learning is often how they'll approach their career.  5. If you want to grow in this career, all it requires is discipline. 6. You don't have to be a salon owner to be the final boss. You have to have the passion to feed your fellow community. 7. If you are giving 30% of your time to something, how can you expect 100% return? 8. The biggest thing that can kill your career is boredom. 9. Instead of hating on someone, collaborate with them. You can find Katie on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/katieealm?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw== Email & text marketing is the quickest way to increase your income and GlossGenius has AI support to make this as simple as clicking a button! Try it out for 2 weeks FREE: https://glossgenius.biz/AmbrosiaCarey Get 15% off Pharmagel, our favorite skincare line with code SSA15: http://www.pharmagel.net/discount/ssa15?redirect=%2F%3Fafmc%3Dssa15  

In this episode, we join Katie Alm, getting real about what actually moves the needle in your beauty career, and it's not chasing the latest trends. From posting with intention to fully understanding the brands you align with, we'll cover mindset and strategy shifts that can change everything. Get FREE access to our profit making webinar: https://small-kiwi-98108.myflodesk.com/ao7u0l0qzq Our 6 figure stylist guide here: https://view.flodesk.com/pages/622541789b7136a9e313da40  Key Take-aways: 1. Posting with intention, sharing your knowledge, and aligning with a brand you love can change the trajectory of your career.  2. Experimenting with the full line of a brand you love and getting really knowledgeable about the full line, makes all the difference. 3. Forget the trending, use the tried and true: posting consistently, come from a place of gaining more experience, and get to know the culture behind the brand. 4. It's all about perspective baby! Do you look at what you're losing or what you're gaining? 5. Where can you volunteer help in an area that might be needed? 6.If you're juggling more than one career path at the same time, communicate and accommodate your clients. By setting the tone in the beginning and letting clients know how you operate, there won't be surprises when it does happen. Email & text marketing is the quickest way to increase your income and GlossGenius has AI support to make this as simple as clicking a button! Try it out for 2 weeks FREE: https://glossgenius.biz/AmbrosiaCarey Take 15% off our favorite skincare line, Pharmagel with code SSA15: http://www.pharmagel.net/discount/ssa15?redirect=%2F%3Fafmc%3Dssa15  

In Part 2 of our leadership deep dive, we're tackling proactive leadership strategies to create a thriving salon culture. Learn how to set clear expectations, communicate with confidence, and lead by example—not just in action, but through clear communication. We'll cover holding your team accountable without micromanaging, addressing issues with clarity and kindness, and creating systems that drive long-term success. If you're ready to shift from reacting to leading with confidence, tune in! Want the full script? Download it here: https://small-kiwi-98108.myflodesk.com/i4lkgeeq3r Get FREE access to our Creative Service Profit Maker Webinar now! https://small-kiwi-98108.myflodesk.com/ao7u0l0qzq   Key Take-aways: 1. Leading vs Reacting: reaction comes from a place of fear and defensiveness. 2. People may think they're leading, but we need to understand more about the individual to know what works for them. 3. Is the way you're perceiving love or acceptance healthy? 4. There are reactive and proactive listeners. Reactive leaders wait until a problem explodes to address it. 5. Never complain about a team member behind their back. 6. As a leader, pull anyone aside to hash out issues and listen. 7. You can't hold team members accountable for what you yourself are not practicing. 8. Proactive leaders set clear standards up front, have it in clear writing, and reinforce them. 9. Proactive leaders address small issues before they become big. 10. Leading by example isn't only about the task, it also needs to be communicated. 11. Explaining why creates purpose behind the task. 12. A script example is: "I'm restocking the backbar because I noticed we're running low, when we stay ahead of this we don't run out in the middle of a service." 13. "Hey (name) I've noticed a pattern where (address a specific issue), I want to check in with what's going on." Then pause. 14. Be short and sweet, and direct and kind. 15. Create a framework that surrounds the issue not the person. 16. When you create clear systems and you create consistency, it becomes a ripple effect. Enjoy 15% off our favorite skincare line, Pharmagel with code SSA15 at checkout: http://www.pharmagel.net/discount/ssa15?redirect=%2F%3Fafmc%3Dssa15 Email & text marketing is the quickest way to increase your income and GlossGenius has AI support to make this as simple as clicking a button! Try it out for 2 weeks FREE: https://glossgenius.biz/AmbrosiaCarey  

Running a salon team isn't just about great hair—it's about clear expectations, accountability, and strong leadership. In this episode, we break down why stylists ignore responsibilities, how to get them to care, and the key shifts that turn frustration into teamwork. Learn how to lead with confidence, and create a culture where everyone takes ownership. If you're tired of repeating yourself or struggling with follow-through, this episode is for you. Get FREE access to our Creative Service Profit Maker Webinar now! https://small-kiwi-98108.myflodesk.com/ao7u0l0qzq Key Take-aways: 1. One of the biggest reasons a task isn't done is they just don't see how it can benefit them. 2. Rather than should's or shouldn't's, focus on tying responsibilities to personal success. 3. Creating a culture of salon leadership brings up future leaders, making your business more sustainable. 4. Be firm but kind 5. Another reason someone doesn't take responsibility is because they assume someone else will take care of it. 6. When addressing, keep it short and simple, and pull them away privately. 7. When someone owns a task, they're more likely to do it. 8. Create a sanitation list and introduce it at a meeting. 9. Another reason something isn't done is because someone doesn't feel accountable. 10. Try a nomination box to bring team morale together, give a gift card to the most nominated employee. 11. Personally thank and publicly recognize when someone goes above and beyond. 12. Come up with solutions during team meetings. Ask your staff if they have ideas. 13. Focus on clarity over assumption 14. Have policies like this written in a team handbook or policy guide. 15. Address issues 1:1 and not in a group. Calling someone out publicly is a form of public shaming. 16. If you have high turnover, it's time to take a look at how you're leading your culture and environment. 17. Frame your approach as collaboration so that you can work together and bond as a team. 18. The bigger picture is to create a team that builds a sustainable business, and therefor creating opportunity and freedom to make choices or take risk. Email & text marketing is the quickest way to increase your income and GlossGenius has AI support to make this as simple as clicking a button! Try it out for 2 weeks FREE: https://glossgenius.biz/AmbrosiaCarey Take 15% off our favorite skincare line, Pharmagel with code SSA15: http://www.pharmagel.net/discount/ssa15?redirect=%2F%3Fafmc%3Dssa15  

Entrepreneurship is full of highs, lows, and lessons you don't see coming. In Life Lessons of an Entrepreneur, Ambrosia Carey shares unfiltered insights on business growth, boundaries, and the mindset shifts that make success sustainable. Whether you're a hairstylist, salon owner, or creative entrepreneur, this podcast delivers real talk on navigating challenges, scaling with purpose, and building a business that works for you—not the other way around. Tune in for honest conversations, actionable strategies, and the lessons Ambrosia learned the hard way so you don't have to. Subscribe now! Get FREE access to our Creative Service Profit Maker Webinar now: https://small-kiwi-98108.myflodesk.com/ao7u0l0qzq !   Are you in our Membership Waitlist? Join now! https://small-kiwi-98108.myflodesk.com/gnfbcgfrjq Get 2 week of GlossGenius for FREE: https://glossgenius.biz/AmbrosiaCarey Key Take-aways: 1. Slow down, you could actually get more done because it allows you to be efficient. 2. No one is coming to save you, rather than resenting the feeling of being held back, make different choices and take authority of your life's outcomes. 3. Perfection is just fear in a fancy outfit. Done is better than perfect. 4. Ask yourself, what can you launch messy today? 5. Boundaries are your freedom, not your punishment. 6. Boundaries don't push the right people away, they push the wrong people out. 7. If it's not a hell yes, it's a no. 8. People will show you who they are…believe them. 9. Money is a tool and not a trophy. 10. Your energy is your most valuable currency. Enjoy 15% off our favorite skincare line, Pharmagel with code SSA15 at checkout: http://www.pharmagel.net/discount/ssa15?redirect=%2F%3Fafmc%3Dssa15    

Struggling to hire and trust new employees in your beauty business? In this episode, we break down when to hire, how to identify the right team members, and ways to build trust so you can scale your salon or beauty brand with confidence. Learn the key benchmarks for hiring, how to avoid those red flags, and how to create a smooth onboarding process that sets your team up for success. Whether you're bringing on a stylist, assistant, or front desk support, this episode will help you make strategic hiring decisions to grow a sustainable and thriving business. Tune in and take the guesswork out of building your dream team! Get FREE access to our Creative Service Profit Maker Webinar now!  Don't sleep on this, get your 2 week trial to GlossGenius, it has seamless scheduling, automated reminders, integrated payments, marketing tools, and client management to streamline operations and boost growth: https://glossgenius.biz/AmbrosiaCarey We want to hear from you! Drop your review & tell us what you enjoy & what you want to hear more of! Key Take-aways: 1. If you are 80% capacity on your books for 3 months, you know it's time to start hiring. 2. How much cash flow do you have? If you're generating 6 figures, you'll have a stronger cushion in case you need a safeguard for any changes in the business. 3. If you're not quite at 6 figures but your profit margins are at 20%, this is a benchmark that allows you to see if you're ready for the next stage of growth 4. Sometimes small business get ahead of themselves and want to grow a team due to emotional investments, and they fall backward financially. 5. When you're ready to hire, define clearly what this person looks like; lay out responsibilities, job description, qualifications, will they be an employee or rental? How much experience do they have, are they looking for an apprenticeship or assistant program before taking clients? 6. Once you know what you're looking for, visit beauty schools to get a better sense of what students are looking for in a leader. 7. Connect locally though social media. Be intentional about your approach with places that could align with your brand.  8. Connect in person with other businesses through local events. This is a great way to attract new clients for your growing team. 9. Recruiting can attract people who are less loyal or looking for the next best thing & that could be a red flag to growing a less sustainable team. 10. Build up your resumes and contact to set up a group interview if there are 3 of more candidates. 11. Invite stand outs to come back for an individual interview where you can address specific topics, allow them to ask questions, and go into details what you are both looking for to see if you align. 12. The last step is a technical interview to see how they work behind the chair. this  is a good time to see how they communicate, interact, are they a natural educator? 13. The next step is to decide how your training will go down. What are you providing for them as a team member? Do you want to them to get involved? Are you interested in training? 14. If you're bringing on an employee, have an employee handbook prepared to lay out responsibilities, expectations,and  benchmarks. 15. Trust is built through repetition. Offering a 1:1 meeting with your employees is a time to check-in & go over goals and realign expectations. 16. Offering incentives, incentives, opportunities for leadership also builds trust. 17. When first hiring, start with a 90 day trial to see if you are a good fit. Take 15% off our favorite skincare line, Pharmagel with code SSA15: http://www.pharmagel.net/discount/ssa15?redirect=%2F%3Fafmc%3Dssa15  

Are you ready to take control of your finances and build lasting wealth? In this episode, we're breaking down a sustainable plan to grow your income, reduce debt, and invest in your future—all tailored for hairstylists, salon owners, and beauty entrepreneurs. Learn smart money strategies, the best ways to eliminate high-interest debt, and how to start investing wisely (even if you're new to it). Whether you're looking to scale your business, create passive income, or build financial security, this episode gives you actionable steps to make it happen. Tune in and start making your money work for you! Get FREE access to our Creative Service Profit Maker Webinar now: https://small-kiwi-98108.myflodesk.com/ao7u0l0qzq Start your high yield savings account with a bonus kickback on Marcus: https://www.marcus.com/share/AMB-9K4-NTGI Get 2 weeks of GlossGenius free, lowest processing fees in the biz & AI tools to help you run your business! https://glossgenius.biz/AmbrosiaCarey Key Take-aways: 1. Pay off high interest debt first: credit cards can hold an interest rate up to 25% causing the average person to pay 2.5x more than the original purchase. 2. The suggested amount is to pay 15-25% of your income monthly to pay off that debt. 3. Avalanche Method: is a debt repayment strategy where you focus on paying off debts with the highest interest rates first to save the most money on interest over time. 4. Allocate 20-30% of your income every month toward your emergency fund, whether you choose to pay off debt first or divide 25% to debt and 5% toward saving. 5. Some debt is healthy debt, but your credit score is impacted when your debt to credit limit goes over 30%. Once your debt to credit limit hits 30%, it can drop your credit score by 20 to 50 points depending on your overall credit profile. 6. An emergency fund provides financial security by covering unexpected expenses. It offers peace of mind, supports business stability during slow periods, and allows you to make decisions confidently without financial stress. Plus, it encourages better money habits and protects long-term investments. 7. Setting clear goals helps you get there faster. 8. Set aside 10-15% of your income to your savings once you've paid of your remaining debts. The goal is to build 3-6 months of your monthly average spending to hold in your savings. 9. The next step is to open a high-yield savings account, which compounds over time at a higher interest rate allowing you to accumulate more income as the account grows. 10. Compounding means you're growing income from interest continues to grow as the money grows. The more frequently your interest is compounded, the quicker your money grows. 11. Leverage your own business as an investment. You want every square inch of your business to be income producing. If you're independent, what lines or affiliate programs can you work with to add multiple streams of income? 12. Build a roadmap for your income strategy building. Start thinking of this as placing your efforts seasonally to pour into multiple buckets, which allows wealth to build more wealth for yourself. 13. When seeking a financial advisor, ask them what their fee structure is. Take 15% off our favorite skincare line, Pharmagel with code SSA15: http://www.pharmagel.net/discount/ssa15?redirect=%2F%3Fafmc%3Dssa15  

Ready to boost your income without adding more hours behind the chair? In this episode, we're diving into creative strategies to grow your salon business and increase revenue. Learn how to make retail sales a natural part of your service, leverage affiliate marketing, and create digital products that keep clients coming back. We'll also discuss hosting client education events, teaching at beauty schools, and collaborating with brands to build new revenue streams. From high-ticket services like extensions to e-commerce opportunities, this episode is packed with actionable tips to help you reach your financial goals while elevating your client experience. Get FREE access to our Creative Service Profit Maker Webinar now! https://small-kiwi-98108.myflodesk.com/ao7u0l0qzq  Email & text marketing is the quickest way to increase your income and GlossGenius has AI support to make this as simple as clicking a button! Try it out for 2 weeks FREE: https://glossgenius.biz/AmbrosiaCarey Key Take-Aways: 1. Retail Sales: Make its a part of your service and not an add-on. 2. Talk retail during the consultation to know what you need to recommend. It's a deeper way to take better care of your client. 3. With the average 15% commission with retail, even if you only sold 10 products per week, that's close to an extra $250 per month…without having to do extra behind the chair. 4. Affiliate marketing will also become more natural if you talk retail in the salon. You can send the link to your clients as well. 5. Add your affiliate links into places that have clickable links such as Pinterest & Facebook. 6. Create digital products such as quick video tutorials for your clients. 7. Digital products also make you irreplaceable. 8. Host an educational event for your clients, it can also bring added income into your space. 9. Start teaching in a beauty school to be a better presenter and offer a low-ticket class for students. 10. Collaborate with brands by having a clear goal and approach from a place of giving, not taking. 11. Work with a brand you've already been using, reach out, showcase examples of your work or create a clever offer. 12. If you've already established a relationship with the brand, propose Sponsorship. 13. Extensions bring added income both as a high ticket service, retail sales on the hair, and a reoccurring service that has an average higher price per minute. 14. If you added a $400 installation twice per month, thats close to $10k per year. 15. Ecommerce is another way of expanding your sales; from retail purchases on your website to sending kits to clients. Take 15% off our favorite skincare line, Pharmagel with code SSA15: http://www.pharmagel.net/discount/ssa15?redirect=%2F%3Fafmc%3Dssa15  

Are you ready to shift your mindset and take control of your beauty career? In this episode, we explore what it truly means to be accountable as a beauty professional. Instead of seeking validation from others, discover how to reclaim your power, embrace leadership, and create work-life harmony. This episode is packed with honest advice and actionable insights for stylists, salon owners, and anyone ready to elevate their mindset and career. Tune in for the conversation you might just be ready to hear! Listen into part 1: Navigating Change in the Salon World: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/successful-stylist-academy/id1584273127?i=1000684015514 Be the first to get access to our FREE webinar, Path To Profit, by joining our newsletter: https://view.flodesk.com/pages/63e914fc8e06d4dae9493e58 Get your first 2 weeks of GlossGenius FREE: https://glossgenius.biz/AmbrosiaCarey Key Take-aways: 1. Rather than focusing on how clients make us feel, what is our responsibility and how we allow ourselves to feel? 2. We all seek validation, but what does it mean to you and once you are validated what do you do with it? 3. Don't give your power away. 4. Assistant vs apprentice: working for someone else vs working for yourself. 5. Find a mentor before leaving beauty school to avoid experimenting with a salon that might not set you up for success. 6. Leadership comes down to your own accountability. 7. There isn't such thing as work-life balance, but there can be work-life harmony. 8. Try letting go of what you think it needs to be, being others in, find your community. 9. We only hear conversations when we're ready to hear it. 10. Don't get too hung up on the stories you tell yourself because those stories can change.  Give yourself grace to be wrong. Find Hairdustry on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/hairdustry?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw== Take 15% off our favorite skincare line, Pharmagel with code SSA15: http://www.pharmagel.net/discount/ssa15?redirect=%2F%3Fafmc%3Dssa15  

In this episode, we sit down with the host of Hairdustry, a podcast dedicated to exploring the mindset and evolution of the hair industry. We discuss how staying adaptable, embracing change, and fostering the right mindset can help hairstylists and salon owners thrive in an ever-evolving landscape. From navigating industry changes to building a sustainable career, this conversation is packed with insights to empower beauty professionals at every stage of their journey. Whether you're behind the chair or leading a salon, you'll walk away with thought provoking advice to align your mindset with how your our future could evolve. If you haven't used GlossGenius, here's a 2 week free trial: https://glossgenius.biz/AmbrosiaCarey To get access to our FREE Path to Profit Webinar, sign up to our Newseltter and we will send you the video once it goes live! Key Take-aways: 1. Responsibility is simply the ability to respond. 2. Instead of responding or reacting, try pausing. 3. Asking the big question "is this true" can help with reshaping limited beliefs. 4. You are what you eat and sometimes you are eating misinformation… are you consuming what is serving you? 5. Change is never what's next. 6. Sometimes we put the energy into what is ahead of us, but really it's about letting go of an old belief system that allows change. 7. Some relationships run its course & we can just be grateful for what it was. 8. We are seeing a rise and recalibration of independent educators in the industry due to the desire of connection. 9. We have a very unique opportunity in this industry to run our own business, even as a W-2 employee. 10. Find Hairdustry on Instagram Tale 15% off our favoriete skincare line, Pharmagel with code SSA15: http://www.pharmagel.net/discount/ssa15?redirect=%2F%3Fafmc%3Dssa15  

Looking to keep your schedule packed and your revenue growing? In this episode, we're sharing expert strategies to maximize your bookings and keep clients coming back for more. Learn actionable tips for re-engaging past clients, attracting new ones, and creating irresistible offers that fill your chair. Whether you're a stylist or salon owner, this episode is packed with insights to help you boost your business and achieve consistent success! Snag our 8 step downloadable worksheet our Fool Proof Profit Maker: https://small-kiwi-98108.myflodesk.com/nlle1d1php Save a seat to our Members Waitlist: https://small-kiwi-98108.myflodesk.com/gnfbcgfrjq Key Take-Aways: 1. Create a New Year offer from a package to a bundle. 2. Start a New Year, New You promotion from adding a micro service. 3. Send a personalized email or text. Focus on the services that bring in the highest revenue to do what you enjoy. 4. Position hair appointments as self care. Make the message about them: After giving to everyone else, it's time to do something for you. 5. Host a giveaway: Discount or product to incentivize clients to prebook. Make the duration 8 weeks to fit the average booking schedule. 6. Share hair resolutions on social media. Great way to add your personalities and attract new clients. 7. Social proof comes from testimonials, reviews, and feedback from clients. Create images, reels, and templates for your social media channels. 8. Encourage clients to prebook, it's the number 1 way to sustain your business and have consistency. 9. Reintroduce and make tightening your systems a convenience to your clients. Take 15% off our favorite skincare line, Pharmagel using code SSA15 at checkout: http://www.pharmagel.net/discount/ssa15?redirect=%2F%3Fafmc%3Dssa15

This episode challenges you to rethink your business, your goals, and the systems you have in place to achieve them. We'll explore how to set bold 10x goals, eliminate distractions, and realign your focus to build a business that works for you—not the other way around. From redefining your role in the industry to leveraging local marketing and believing in your brand, this conversation is packed with insights to help you scale with intention and clarity. Tune in to unlock strategies that will transform the way you think about growth and success! Get our FREE worksheet: Grow You Income Behind The Chair: https://small-kiwi-98108.myflodesk.com/y0aahdo1cv We want to hear from you, drop a question or comment in the review section below and we will add you to our next live session: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/successful-stylist-academy/id1584273127 Key Take-Aways: 1. What is your 10x goal to change who you need to be to get the things you want? 2. What things do you need to eliminate out of your life in order to create time for achieving the outcome of what you desire to have? 3. What business do you think you're in, what business are you really in, what business do you need to be in? 4. Don't let others tell you how to run your business, you say how you want to run your business. 5. People are googling hair products more than haircuts. Why not target the products you use to the 7 mile radius around you? 6. Once you target clients, run a retarget ad to get them in your salon. 7. Hourly employees can pack orders, stylists can create videos with a QR code to share how to use the products. 8. Ask coaches who give disruptive information to show you how they have made more money and run their business more efficiently before taking their advice. 9. You don't rise to the level or your goals, you fall to the level of your systems. 10. Make sure you believe in what your selling, what makes it stand out, why are you passionate about it? 11. If you're using affiliate links instead of selling physical products, you get to control your margins. 12. Saying no to your client behind the chair is saying yes to your team. Have a day dedicated to your team. Look into the Replacement Ladder. 13. 1:3:1 rule: What's the real problem that will fix 80% of the issues, what are the 3 solutions to solve that problem, and what is the 1 that would be the best option to move forward with. 14. Everyone has different goals, and there's not one vehicle to get there. 15. By learning what not to do, you learn what to do. 16. Make sure you're not adding an ignorance tax, failure can lead to massive success. Find Nick on Instagram or website Enjoy 15% off our favorite skincare line: Parmagel with code SSA15: http://www.pharmagel.net/discount/ssa15?redirect=%2F%3Fafmc%3Dssa15  

In this episode of Successful Stylist Academy, Ambrosia and Drea dive into the art of consultations behind the chair, sharing their best practices and communication strategies for creating successful, lasting client relationships. From asking the right questions to setting clear expectations, they'll guide you through each step of a transformative consultation that builds trust and sets the stage for success. Tune in to learn practical tips, common pitfalls to avoid, and how to make every consultation a powerful tool for client satisfaction and retention. Perfect for stylists looking to elevate their client experience and grow their business! Download our FREE guide: Increase Your Income Behind the Chair Join our Members Waitlist opening soon. Get access to our free videos on YouTube Key Take-Aways: 1. Active Listening: We talk so much about how we talk that we forget how to listen. 2. Active listening can improve our client satisfaction up to 40% which shows how important it is for our clients to feel they're heard. 3. Separate into 2 categories: the fun & not fun things. Policies & pricing allow you to be creative and enjoy the experience. The consultation is getting all sticky stuff out of the way to enjoy the rest of the service. 4. Hearing and listening are 2 different things, make sure you repeat your clients words back to them, share the plan, and then asking. 5. Over-communicate so the clients expectations match your expectations. 6. Under promise and over deliver. 7. Most of the time, a stylist who thinks she's giving a consultation might not match what a client thinks is considered a consultation. 8. Talk about what goes into the process and also what goes into th maintenance. 9. The consultation is the main dish of what we offer behind the chair, it's where trust is built, aligned goals are created, and a plan for future services are created. 10. By the time the cape is off, your client has mentally moved on to the next part of the day. 11. We're never recommending a product a client doesn't need. Try noting some questions you can integrate into your consultation ahead of time. 12. Break the consultation over different parts of the service with go-to questions you can visit during the service, and a closing consultation which is making sure you met the clients expectation and plan for next time. 13. Rather than assuming your client won't want it, assume they will because you've armed them with lots of information. Get 15% off our favorite skincare line, Pharmagel with code SSA15 Track your salon color down by the penny with SalonScale, take an additional 10% off with code SSA10 HERE  

In this episode, Harley Chapman shares her exact growth strategies in how she started generating income on TikTok. Learn how to monetize your content, grow your audience, and leverage brand partnerships to turn your TikTok presence into a profitable venture. Whether you're just starting or looking to make passive income, these tips will help you maximize your earning potential on the platform. For more business, marketing, and finance tips, join our newsletter HERE Get instant access to our Business Marketing Course. Enjoy our FREE Marketing Guide! Key Take Aways: 1. Start by creating the content. 2. You can unlock TikTok shop once you have 5k followers.   3. Posting 2 to 3 times a day does get you there faster. 4. Create a list or scroll through the app to get inspiration on your content ideas. 5. Set aside an hour a day to work on your content. 6. Create up to five content topics to post about regularly. 7. Consider a miniseries I can tie back to your brand and is related to your content pillars. 8. The more you get to know your audience the easier it is for your content to be shared to similar accounts. 9. Once you get accepted into the shop, you can request free samples, which helps you find the right brand alignment. 10. Once you start to see growth, have an end goal in mind. 11. Brands will also pay for your ads which helps to increase sales for you and following. 12. Ads can't be running on a post that has copyright music on it. 13. When going live on TikTok, it's better to go for longer durations starting at an hour. 14. Once you hit 10k followers, you become eligible for the Creator program which pays to post. 15. Keywords do make a difference, particularly in-video caption, description, and hashtags. 16. A little hack is hiding keywords in your video, shrinking them down and bringing them off the screen. 17. Make sure you engage as part of your content strategy. 18. Replying to comments via video does really well on TikTok. 19. Above all else, remain curious & allow yourself to try new things. Instantly save money on you color plus 10% off with SalonScale using code SSA10 Get 15% off our favorite skincare line, Pharmagel with code SSA15 Do you perfer video? Binge watch our Top Episodes on YouTube

In this episode, we dive deep into the most effective client retention techniques tailored for beauty businesses. Learn how to create exceptional client experiences, foster loyalty, and increase repeat bookings. Whether you're a salon owner or a beauty professional, these strategies will help you strengthen client relationships and grow your business. Tune in to discover actionable tips that can transform one-time clients into long-term loyal relationships! If you missed this episode: 7 Effective Ways To Build Client Relationships Automate & Segment your email campaigns with Flodesk, take 50% off HERE Join our Membership Waitlist now! Key Take-Aways: 1. When we talk about retention, if you don't have those building blocks of creating a strong relationship and being in an environment that you feel supported in, it's a big contributor for professionals not staying in the industry. 2. Personalizing each client experience: Make recommendations, but also personalizing your marketing techniques to fit the preferences of each guest. 3. 80% of consumers are more likely to support a business that provides personalized experience. 4. Simple is not always easy. Having the confidence to retain clients gives you the financial freedom, time and peace to focus on education or reach out to brands. 5. Work on your craft: Set aside 5% of your income for ongoing education. Setting money aside for education also creates a psychological reward system & allows you to put time and thought into the classes you really need. 6. It's better to get really strong at a couple of things at a time rather than offering everything because it allows you to focus on the relationship and feel confident with the service. 7. Offer a loyalty program: A point system is a great way to add to the next purchase, which can increase client retention by 5-10%, and also generates on average 15-25% more profits per year. 8.Dial in communication & verbiage: This helps with clarity, removing obstacles, plus clients feel heard. 9. Treat all clients as if they're your only client. A way to see a great example of exceptional service is to be a client yourself and create a rating system for parts of your service and make notes for how you can apply your experience behind the chair. 10. Being consistent is the most important part of the service to retaining a client. 89% of consumers have switched to a competitor following a poor experience. 11. Be irreplaceable: What makes you YOU & make your strength your Super Power. Write specific things down in the client notes to help your remember details. 12. Make sure your clients are not leaving before rebooking, it helps to talk about next steps or always leave your client wanting more. 13. Remember your clients don't only choose you, you also choose them, so choose clients for your future self. Get access to our favorite salon income saving tool, SalonScale with an extra 10% off using code SSA10 HERE Enjoy 15% off Pharmagel skincare with code SSA15 HERE  

In our fast-paced world as a hairstylist, it's easy to feel like you're constantly chasing the next trend, trying to stand out in a saturated market, or possibly even struggling to maintain a steady client base. In today's episode, we're diving deep into the challenges every hairstylist faces, from balancing creativity with profitability, and uncovering actionable strategies to not just survive, but truly thrive in the industry. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, this conversation is designed to help you connect with your clients on a deeper level and find more fulfillment behind the chair. Join our Waitlist HERE Binge watch our 3 hour Successful Hairstylist Workshop. Download today and get lifetime access to our annual upgrades. Key Take-aways: 1. Personalized Follow-Ups: After a client's appointment, send a personalized text or email thanking them for their visit, or a hand-written card if you really want to stand out. Include a specific compliment or mention something personal they shared. 2. Studies show that addressing someone by their name makes interactions up to 10 times more memorable.  "Hi [Mackkenzie], it was great seeing you today! I hope you enjoy your new haircut. Don't forget to use the serum we talked about for added shine. Looking forward to your next visit!" 2. Have clear and intentional communication: Understand your clients needs, repeating things back to them, and showing appreciation. 3. Host a VIP night or a small client appreciation event. This ties into the profit of emotion or time being the greatest, long-term profit of all. 4. Customize a haircare plan for your clients: Detail recommendations based on tips, products, and added value. 5. Host a private "bring your own tools night" and spend focused time on helping people with learning how to style their hair. 6. Consistency with your story and brand, for example booking extra time for a new client. 7. How do you show up on social media. Do you engage with your clients or potential clients when you have a gap in your day? 8. Make a special note on clients to remind yourself to bring it up when they come back in. 9. Referral and rewards program: word of mouth can increase our new client acquisition by 50% Enjoy our favorite skincare line, Pharmagel with an extra 15% off using code SSA15 Never waste product again, take an additional 10% off SalonScale with code SSA10 and track your inventory & cover all of your color costs with every mix.

In the beauty industry, it's easy to blur the line of being an artist vs owning a buiness. Ambrosia opens the conversation on bad business advice and deceptive tactics on working less, charging less, and making more. From misleading pricing claims to hidden context, we expose the tactics that social media can use to manipulate popular consumption for truth. Join us as we discuss the impact of these lies on your income, business, and future. Ambrosia also provides tips on how to approach navigating the mindset of exchanging money for time and the long-term ramifications for underchanging. Don't miss this episode if you're ready to uncover the reality of compounding effects and empower yourself with knowledge. Join the Membership Waitlist. For our Marketing Guide Freebie, tap HERE Key Take-Aways: 1. Most advice on social media lacks context or is missing important parts of the story. 2. Doing something for a long time doesn't give someone the right to teach, but learning the craft of teaching and holding retention does. 3. People say things that are inflammatory because it gets attention and followers. 4. If you don't raise your prices, and your costs keeps going up…understand that you are choosing to be the one who absorbs the cost. 5. I'm either free or expensive, but I'm never cheap. 6. You can choose to comp your work as a gift or give back through charity work, but never raising prices for repeat clients is bad business. 7. There is a difference between goodwill and good business. 8. It's impossible to book less time, charge less, and make more money. 9. The reason it's important to learn how to operate your business is so that you can take care of your future self. 10. It's the sustainable stuff that builds wealth, confidence, and relationships. Maximize your profits by tracking your color cost with SalonScale, add an extra 10% off with code SSA10 Get 15% off our favorite skincare line, Pharmagel using code SSA15

If you're a hairstylist or salon owner looking to elevate your expertise and service offerings, spend time with us as we delve deep into the world of hair extensions. We are debunking myths and revealing why extensions are the perfect solution for everyone. Discover how lightweight, high-quality, and eco-conscious Rooted hair extensions can transform your business as we explore the benefits, best practices, and the ethical considerations behind choosing the right extensions. Tune in to learn how Rooted can help you provide unparalleled service while promoting sustainability and inclusivity in your salon. Don't miss out on these insider tips and expert advice that will set you apart in the competitive beauty industry. Hairstylists & Salon Owners, sign up now for Pro access HERE   Get our 6 figure stylist workbook HERE Key Take-Aways: 1. At Rooted, we allow anyone to have access to our hair, no barrier to entry, and no certification requirements. 2. Hairstylists who have been doing extensions longer doesn't necessarily make them more qualifies because safter methods are evolving.   3. Most people who are getting extensions these days are wanting to enhance their natural hair. 4. Our education is foundational and based on the healthiest methods. 5. We have to have standards for education that are proper for the person sitting in our chair. 6. Most people who actually need extensions are afraid to ask because they see curated content on Instagram on a specific type of person. 7. We need to have the conversation more and educate our clients on the options in the extension world. 8. Arming ourselves with lots of information, we have the ability to make solution based choices. 9. By todays standard extensions are no longer about gaining length. It's a solution to hair shedding, breakage, hormonal changes, thyroid issues, alopecia, trauma, long-term health issues, color changes, and other normal conditions most people deal with. 10. Business integration also sets us apart from others. We are both knowledgable and passionate about helping others build a successful team & business. 11. If you're setting yourself up for success, then there is room to enjoy your life. 12. Less is more with extensions, we provide the lightest weight extensions that you can customize and mix and match. Know the exact cost of hair color in every bowl, from digital formula storage to inventory tracking in real time with SalonScale. Get 10% off your annual subscription using code SSA10  https://signup.salonscale.com/mz9lj/ambrosiacarey Enjoy 15% off our favorite multi-generational skincare line, Pharmagel with code SSA15.

Do you ever feel like a fraud, despite your skills and qualifications? This episode tackles the common challenge of imposter syndrome in the beauty industry, equipping you with practiced strategies to silence self-doubt and embrace your inner strength. Subscribe for more discussions on business, marketing, communication, and finance in the beauty industry. Join the Waitlist to our Members Portal! Enjoy our Client Retention FREE Guide. Key Take-Aways: 1. Focus on the current challenge rather than what's next. 2. Ask yourself if there are other barriers that are causing the feeling ie. Tired, hungry, unknown fears. 3. Is your ego of expectations getting in the way? 4. Can your ego also help you in a positive way through self-love and connecting with the right people? 5. Are you prepared? Sometimes imposture syndrome comes from the unknown, and prep work can help a lot. 6. Ask yourself what you really want. Let the vision of your dreams be clear, helping you focus on action items, rather than doubts or unknowns. 7. Failure can arm you with more preparedness the next time. 8. Practice mindfulness, which improves focus, lowers stress, and improves mental clarity. If you enjoyed this episode, please share by dropping a review here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/successful-stylist-academy/id1584273127 Save thousands on color with SalonScale in your salon. Take an additional 10% off at checkout with code SSA10 Enjoy 15% off our favorite skincare line, Pharmagel with code SSA10.

In this episode Ambrosia Carey uncovers some hard lessons and common challenges that get in the way of busines growth. Tune into this new series of raw, unedited, and unfiltered weekly conversations surrounding business, marketing, and mindset challenges in the beauty industry. Get early access to the launch of our Membership, enter Waitlist HERE Leave us a review with comments, questions, and takeaways HERE Key Takeaways: 1. Don't ignore your intuition, listen to your gut and follow your instinct. 2. Confimation bias can be a dangerous distraction from learning, developing, and growing. 3. Fear of failure is the most common. Recognize the fear, but don't let it get in the way of growth. 4. The only failure in business is failing to learn from mistakes. 5. Don't be resistant to change or let the fear of change get in the way of growth: Just because it worked before doesn't mean it'll work again. 6. Lack of organization is a common obstacle, this is where a coach or addition to your team can be monumental. 7. Unrealistic time constraints, lack of data, or being inconsistent are other common obstacles, so recognizing what is the biggest challenge makes it easier to problem solve. Take an additional 10% off the number 1 money savign tool: SalonScale with code SSA10. Enjoy 15% off our favorite skincare line, Pharmagel using code SSA15

Ever wonder how to protect the brand you work so hard to build? Welcome back trademark law expert, Kelli Jones who teaches us the ins and outs of how a trademark process works, when you might want to consider securing your brand, and what you should look out for before protecting your brand identity. Get our FREE Marketing Guide for more business tips. If you missed our previous episode on contracts, click HERE. Instant access to our Business Marketing Course HERE. Key Take-Aways: 1. A trademark is a part of your brand which identifies your good & services. 2. The difference copyright and trademark: copyright protects original work of author. Trademark protects words, phrases, symbols, or designs that distinguish the source. 3. The point of a trademark is to prevent consumer confusion. 4. Two things that are unrelated can exist. 5. Even if you're using a brand name first, whoever files a trademark has the most rights. 6. Before creating the branding for your business, do a basic search on uspto as well as Google Search. 7. Hiring a lawyer for applying for a trademark adds further safeguard due to the extended search. 8. It's important to file the branding with the words used for the business instead of only the logo, so that it's always covered even when changing the branding colors and logo. 9. The beauty industry is one of the harder industries to get a trademark due to general wording that overlaps in the industry. 10.The trademark process can take a year or more after filing. 11. Trademarks can also negotiate terms specific to the state, but its typically federal. 12. If you're using a name before someone registers and sends a cease and desist, you can appeal it. 13. A federal trademark will trump a state trademark in court. Save on your product cost with SalonScale & add 10% off your order with code SSA10. Enjoy 15% off our favorite skincare line with code SSA15 Find Kelli on Instagram HERE

Feeling overwhelmed by salon contracts? Don't risk your business! Join us as lawyer Kelli Jones breaks down everything salon owners & hairstylists NEED to know about crafting ironclad contracts.  Learn key terms, avoid hidden pitfalls, and discover strategies to maximize profits & protect your business.  Listen now & gain the legal edge for your beauty business! Our FREE template to creating a giveaway for your business. Maximize your marketing efforts with our Marketing Course! Key Take-aways: 1. There are different contacts for your business in different states. 2. You can put anything in a contract, but it doesn't mean it can be enforced in your state. 3. Don't charge for things that are unreasonable, for instance the full service price. 4. Make sure your policy is clear, written and easily found on your website. 5. If a client is booking online and checks a box to agree to the policy, it's in written form and easier to enforce the charge. 6. If you don't have clarity on how charges work, when and what the stipulation is, it will be harder to legally hold the charge against the client. 7. Usually what can legally be held against you as a service provider is what you don't include, not what you do include. 8. Be careful when asking to hold credit card information, you need to get authorization to charge their card. 9. As far as holding a non-compete for an employee, it is meant to protect both parties. It's a red flag if a salon has you sign a non-compete if you are a 1099. 10. A non-compete shouldn't prohibit an employee from being able to work if they left. 11. As an employee, consider negotiating the terms of the contract before finalizing. 12. As a freelancer when signing a contract with a brand, if asked for a non-compete for a longer duration, negotiate either a higher rate or for a shorter timeframe. Keep in mind, the brand's contract doesn't typically work favorably for the artist. 13. Look for words like perpetuity because the intellectual property can belong to the brand if you don't negotiate it down. 14. Make sure you license it to them rather than them taking ownership of it. 15. Once you publish something online, you hold the copy-write to it. You need to give permission to someone else using your content, it could be copy write infringement. 16. It's easier to escalate as necessary rather than deescalate a situation. 17. Try reaching out to the brand directly first before reporting, this is where you can negotiate a paid relationship with them. 18. If you feel nervous about signing a contract, think of it as a way to protect both parties and to prevent miscommunication. Find Kelli @lawyerkelli_ on Instagram Save thousands annually, and track your color usage in real-time with SalonScale. Use code SSA10 to save an additional 10% off & a free scale! Get 15% off our favorite skincare line, Pharmagel, with code SSA15.

Finding the right salon home goes beyond just a pretty space. As a hairstylist, prioritizing a salon that fosters your professional growth can make or break the longevity of your success behind the chair. Discover how to find a supportive team environment that fosters professional growth through education and skill development. We'll discuss the importance of a salon culture that values your creativity and allows you to showcase your talents. Plus, we'll tackle practical considerations like added support and resources to look for in your salon home, that aligns with your experience and goals. Tune in and get ready to find the perfect salon to launch your dream career! Join our Newsletter & be the first to hear what we have coming your way for ALL beauty professionals! Get instant access to our Marketing 101 Course   Key Take-Aways: 1. Look at the salon culture. How is everyone treating one another. 2. Pay attention to the atmosphere. How is the interaction with clients? 3. Is there opportunity for you to grow as a stylist? 4. Reputation & integrity: Community, clients, and team/staff. 5. Look over reviews and visit in person. 6. Does the salon conduct a working/shadow or technical interview? 7. Is there a mentorship/coaching program? 8. What is their turnover rate? If it's high, consider interviewing a couple of stylists first. 9. Is the salon open to Indie education? Do they cover the cost of classes? 10. Does the space fit the season of life you're in? How much participation is required? 11. Find out what the compensation, expectation, and do they have a benefits pack? 12. Look out for cleanliness and organization, which shows you the foundation is there. Get the #1 Salon money-saving tool, SalonScale with a free scale and an added 10% off: https://signup.salonscale.com/mz9lj/ambrosiacarey code SSA10 Take 15% off our favorite skincare line, Pharmagel with code SSA15: http://www.pharmagel.net/discount/ssa15?redirect=%2F%3Fafmc%3Dssa15

Feeling overwhelmed, undervalued, or like you're constantly saying yes?  Do you ever wonder how to achieve your goals and live a truly fulfilling life? The answer lies within you!  This empowering episdoe explores the twin pillars of self-awareness and boundaries with Sarai Speer.   Drop a review on Spotify or Apple now & get automatically entered to win a Pharmagel skincare bundle: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/successful-stylist-academy/id1584273127?i=1000629282175 Join our Newsletter for our monthly guides, special invites, and added resources! Key Take-aways: 1. Boundaries can have a negative connotation, but they look different to everyone. 2. Self care isn't selfish. 3. We are guaranteed to wake up with one person for the rest of our life & it's ourself. 4. Boundaries can be discovered through being self-aware. 5. Practice 7 layers of why for self-awareness. 6. Write out what you will and won't put up with, and where you need help. 7. Clear communication which is a beautiful self protection piece. Use "I" statements. 8. Practice consistency and role play with someone you trust. 9. Self care, which is ways to practice self love. Find Sarai on Instagram Cover your color costs, manage inventory, and organize your orders in one place with SalonScale, get an additional 10% off with code SSA10: https://signup.salonscale.com/mz9lj/ambrosiacarey Enjoy 15% off our favorite skincare line, Pharmagel with code SSA15: http://www.pharmagel.net/discount/ssa15?redirect=%2F%3Fafmc%3Dssa15