The Go Ham Podcast

Clean and organic isn’t a trend anymore, it’s taking over. In this episode of, we talk about the shift happening in the beauty industry and why it matters more than ever. With a potential formaldehyde ban from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, things could change fast when it comes to services, products, and how salons operate. We also get into how stylists are thinking more about their health behind the chair, and how clients are becoming way more intentional about where they go and what’s being used on them.If you’re not paying attention to this shift, you’re already behind.

If you think your mindset doesn’t impact your business… this episode will humble you real quick.This week we’re sitting down with Paige Fisher, and her story is the kind that proves everything can change when you do. She went from feeling stuck, pessimistic, working two jobs, and seriously considering leaving it all behind to move south… to building the career she once thought was out of reach and stepping into a leadership role. We’re breaking down what actually shifted. The internal work, hard conversations, and identity shifts that changed how she showed up behind the chair and in her life.If you’ve ever felt burnt out, negative, or like your situation isn’t going to change, this is the reality check you didn’t know you needed.

Trying to find a salon home? Cool. But are you actually asking the right questions… or just hoping for the best and ignoring the red flags? In this episode, we’re getting real about what stylists should be looking for when they’re interviewing at salons and what most people completely miss. Yeah, we talk about the obvious stuff like schedule, pay structure, and growth opportunities… but that’s the bare minimum. If you’ve ever ignored your gut, taken a job for the wrong reasons, or found yourself in a salon thinking “wait… what did I just sign up for?” this episode is for you.

In this episode, we’re talking about the hiring mistakes that cost salon owners way more than they realize. Not just money, but time, team morale, resources, and a ridiculous amount of energy trying to make the wrong hire work. We break down the red flags we’ve ignored in interviews, why hiring “off the street” can sometimes create bigger problems than it solves, and why promoting from within often leads to stronger culture and better long-term results.We also dive into how to interview for success instead of just bringing in bodies, what questions actually reveal how someone will perform on your team, and why seamless onboarding is one of the most important systems a salon can build.If you’re a salon owner who’s ever thought, “I knew this was a bad hire but I did it anyway,” this episode is for you.Listen in as we unpack the hiring lessons that shaped how we build teams today.

The beauty industry gets a bad rap. Burnout. Drama. Negativity. Comparison. Sure, that exists. But that’s not the whole story. In this episode, we’re talking about the opportunity no one talks about enough... flexible schedules, serious income potential, brand deals, creative freedom, and building a life that most “traditional” careers can’t offer. And bigger than that… the impact. What feels like just another client to you might be someone’s fresh start. Their confidence boost. Their first moment of feeling like themselves again. We don’t just provide services. We change lives, and sometimes without even realizing it. If you’ve been stuck in the negative narrative, this episode is your reset.

In this episode of Go Ham, we sit down with Daniel and Jodi Mason-Jones to talk about what it really looks like to go from being wildly successful behind the chair to building a full-blown salon empire.Daniel is one of the most sought-after inspirational speakers in our industry, but what makes him different is he’s still in it. He’s consistently running a thriving business behind the chair, seeing up to 30 guests a day, while also scaling three salon locations in the Atlanta, Georgia area. Meanwhile, Jodi is the powerhouse behind the scenes, keeping the business moving, the systems tight, and the vision alive.If you’re a stylist with big goals or a salon owner trying to grow without burning out, this episode is a must-listen.

In this episode, we talk with Robin, a heart attack survivor whose story every woman needs to hear. Robin suffered a SCAD heart attack, a rare and often misdiagnosed type of heart attack that mainly affects women. Like so many of us, she could have brushed off the symptoms or told herself she was fine. Instead, she listened to her body and trusted her instincts, and that choice saved her life. Now, Robin is using her voice to raise awareness around women’s heart health and SCAD. This conversation is powerful, eye-opening, and could truly save your life or the life of someone you love. Please listen and share it.

In this episode, we sit down with Maddie Sweeney, one of the fastest-growing stylists in our company, and break down what it actually looks like to build a business behind the chair in one of the hardest seasons our industry has seen. You’ll hear exactly what Maddie did differently, the habits she committed to, the mindset shifts she had to make, and the uncomfortable decisions that helped her beat the odds while a lot of people are stuck or burning out. If you’re a stylist who feels like growth has been harder than it should be lately, this episode will show you what’s actually possible and what it really takes.

In this episode, we get real about what’s actually going on with retail in salons. Big brands controlling distribution, constant supply issues, Amazon partnering with professional lines, and the disappearance of brand reps who used to support, educate, and show up. We talk about how this is impacting salon owners, stylists, and culture, and why selling retail feels harder than ever.Most importantly, we share how we’ve tried to adapt, what’s worked, what hasn’t, and what we’re still testing to survive in a completely different retail landscape. If retail has felt like an uphill battle lately, this one’s for you.

In this episode, Jennifer Boutwell gets real about the hard seasons of life and how they shape the leader you are. We talk about how trauma doesn’t just stay neatly in the past. It quietly shows up in your decisions, your relationships, your leadership style, and the way you move through the world.Fight or flight might help you survive for a while, but it can only take you so far. Without self-awareness and real healing, those old patterns keep running the show. Jennifer shares how facing her own trauma head-on changed everything, and why doing the work is the only way to move forward in a productive, grounded, and intentional way.This conversation is raw, honest, and eye-opening for anyone who wants to lead better, live better, and stop letting unhealed moments dictate their future.

In this episode of Go Ham, we sit down with Nichole Mansi to talk about what really happens when you leave a workplace and things get messy. Nichole shares her experience of walking away, unexpectedly dealing with a lawsuit that was ultimately non-sense, but still incredibly stressful, and navigating the fear and pressure that came with it. We dive into the challenges of starting a business on her own, pushing through uncertainty, and finding confidence along the way.That resilience led her to opening her own studio and building a team she’s proud of. This episode is for anyone thinking about starting over, betting on themselves, and choosing growth even when it’s hard.

Salon shutdowns are happening everywhere right now and nobody wants to talk about it — but we are. In this episode, we break down why so many salons are struggling, the silent factors most owners never see coming, and what you cancontrol to keep your business alive, profitable, and moving forward.From tightening your systems to leading your team with more clarity, from building a real brand (not just cute Instagram posts) to understanding your numbers before they become a problem, we’re giving you the exact mindset and strategy shifts salon owners need in this season.If you want to stay afloat, stay relevant, and stay in business while others are closing their doors, this episode is your wake-up call and your roadmap.Listen in — your salon’s future depends on it.

Today we sat down with Derek Hull to talk straight about what’s actually working in salon marketing right now. If you’ve ever wondered how we’ve been able to grow brand awareness, drive new guests, and stay top of mind in a crowded market, Derek and Salon Ninja have been a huge part of that. Derek drops the bomb on his newest project: an AI powered salon software that literally lets you ask anything you need and get instant answers, handle tasks in seconds, and even has an AI phone system that answers calls and books appointments for you so your front desk can focus on humans instead of hold music. We unpack why salons that embrace technology pull ahead. If you want to stay competitive, build a modern salon ecosystem, and stop fighting against tools that exist to make your life easier, this one is a must listen.

This week, we’re talking about communication… the part of leadership that’s a breeze when you’ve got a tiny team, but can suddenly feel like herding cats once you grow. We’re diving into what’s worked for us, what absolutely didn’t, and the systems we’re using right now to keep everyone aligned without losing our sanity. We get into matching communication styles, setting clear expectations and boundaries, and why “just talk to each other” isn’t a strategy. And yeah… we still struggle, because real leadership isn’t about pretending you’ve got it mastered. It’s about constantly refining, learning, and communicating smarter.

We sat down with straight-shooter Nina Tulio for a real talk on what leadership in the salon industry actually looks like today—no buzzwords, no sugar-coating. Nina breaks down how leadership has evolved, why servant leadership still wins, and how to lead from purpose instead of ego. She also dives deep into one of the hardest things for stylists to face: raising prices without guilt. If you’ve ever struggled with confidence, emotions, or feeling “not ready,” this episode is your wake-up call to start charging your worth, lead with intention, and treat your chair like the business it truly is.

We see it all the time in this industry, people lose their drive. When the pressure, and the constant giving start to outweigh the love for the craft, it can feel easier to walk away. But sometimes, stepping back is the only way to remember why you fell in love with it in the first place. In this episode, we sit down with Cesalee Smith, a stylist who’s walked that exact path—leaving the industry completely, only to realize she missed it more than ever. We talk about burnout, rediscovering purpose, and what it’s really like to come back to the chair with a whole new perspective If you’ve ever thought about quitting or wondered what it would take to fall back in love with doing hair—this one’s for you.

On this episode, we sit down with Gina Bianca, a true jack of all trades in the industry. From hairstylist to commission/booth rental owner, yoga studio owner, and one of the most sought-after educators in the business, Gina has been through it all. She doesn’t sugarcoat her story, and she doesn’t shy away from the hard parts. We dive deep into the challenges she’s faced, the pivots she’s made, and the lessons she’s carried through every chapter of her career. If you’ve been waiting for a sign to make a change, Gina’s raw honesty will remind you that it all starts with yourself. This episode is proof that success isn’t about avoiding struggle, it’s about how you rise through it.

Salon breakups aren’t fun, but they’re inevitable. In this episode, we’re diving into the tough stuff—how to know when it’s time for someone to exit your company, whether that’s a resignation or a firing. We’ll walk through the warning signs, the right and wrong ways to handle it, and the big mistakes to avoid during and after a departure. Most importantly, we’ll talk about how to move forward—protecting your culture, supporting your team, and setting yourself up for growth on the other side.

In this episode, we get real about one of the hardest parts of being a hairstylist—GUILT. From upholding salon policies, client’s personal situations tugging at your heart, to saying no when someone begs you to squeeze them in on your day off, we’re covering it all. We talk about the pressure to always be empathetic, the blurred line between personal and professional, and how to protect your time without feeling like the bad guy. If you’ve ever felt torn between being a people-pleaser and running a business with boundaries, this one’s for you.

From refund demands to clients walking out without paying, and even the occasional case of public indecency, salon ownership comes with some wild stories. In this episode of Go Ham, we’re diving into the common headaches and the rare “did that really just happen?” moments that test your patience, professionalism, and problem-solving skills. Buckle up, because we’re spilling the tea on the challenges most people never see behind the chair.

Thinking about raising your prices but not sure if it’s the right move—or the right time? In this episode, we’re breaking down the when, why, and how of price increases. From recognizing the signs it's time to charge more, to understanding when not to raise prices, we’re giving you the full roadmap. We’ll cover the right (and wrong) ways to communicate price changes, how to keep your clients' trust, and how to avoid common missteps that hurt your brand. Whether you’re a new business owner or a seasoned pro, this episode will give you the confidence and clarity to make strategic pricing decisions that support your business growth—not sabotage i

In this episode, we’re pulling back the curtain on all things marketing in the salon industry, from Google and Yelp to paid ads, community outreach, and everything in between. We’re breaking down what’s worked for us, what flopped, and what we’re testing this year to keep our books full and our brand top-of-mind. Whether you're a salon owner looking to attract more dream clients or just want to stop wasting money on marketing that doesn't convert, this one’s packed with real talk, lessons learned, and marketing goals we’re chasing in 2025.

In this episode, we sit down with Bob Philipp—a seasoned industry distributor—to unpack the current state of the beauty industry. From brand partnerships to price hikes, Bob pulls back the curtain on what’s really going on behind the scenes. We dive into the tough decisions salon owners face when choosing which beauty brands to align with, how global tariffs could impact pricing and product availability, and why so many major brands are raising prices while quietly cutting quality. Bob shares how these shifts inspired him to start his own distribution company built for salon owners—not for corporate profit. If you’ve ever questioned where your money is going or why your once-trusted product suddenly isn’t performing the same, this one’s for you.

In this episode, we sit down with Samantha Mattucci Curran, an industry vet with 10 years of commission salon experience—who made the bold decision to step into the world of independence. When we opened our salon suites right next door, she took the leap… and hasn’t looked back. We dive into what pushed her to make the switch, the wins (and curveballs) along the way, and how she's building her dream business one client at a time. Whether you're debating going solo or just curious about what it really takes, this conversation covers it all.

In this episode, we sit down with Marissa Carroll to talk about the real, raw reasons she left her commission salon to go independent—and why, after facing the realities of suite life, she ultimately chose to return. Marissa opens up about the freedom she was craving, the challenges that caught her off guard, and the unexpected ways her mindset shifted along the way. If you’ve ever wondered whether the grass is really greener on the other side, this episode is a must-listen.

We’re diving into how ChatGPT has seriously leveled up the way we run our salon. In this episode, we’re breaking down exactly how we use AI behind the scenes — from writing policy updates and handling tricky guest messages to creating training guides, job posts, all things marketing and salon goals. If you’ve ever wondered how to save time, get out of your own head, or scale your business without burning out, this episode is your cheat code.

This week, we’re pulling no punches. We’re diving into the rise of a new generation of stylists claiming “specialist” status without the reps, the grit, or the confidence to back it up. Is it fear masked as branding? We’re calling it out.We also break down the right (and wrong) ways to roll out a price increase—because how you communicate it can make or break your guest retention. And finally, we unpack a real story of a salon owner whose attempt to inspire her team backfired—resulting in a top stylist walking out. What went wrong, and what can we learn?

In this episode, we sit down with Payton Wargo—a stylist who built a thriving business behind the chair in record time. She’s sharing the exact steps that helped her grow fast, the habits she swears by, and the hard lessons she had to learn along the way. If you're just starting out or feeling stuck, this episode is your blueprint. Follow her moves, apply the mindset—and the success is yours for the taking.

Ever wonder why a client never came back—and you never heard why? In this episode, we’re getting brutally honest. We’re breaking down real reasons clients said they didn’t return to their stylist or service provider. From disappointing results and lack of professionalism, to unclear pricing, hefty cancellation fees, and overall bad vibes—we’re diving into all of it.Are you doing any of these things without realizing it? Let’s talk about it, reflect on it, and figure out how to fix it before it costs you your next loyal client.

Thinking about opening a salon? In this episode, we get real about how much things have changed in just the past few years. From rising construction and supply costs to navigating tenant improvement negotiations, the financial side looks different—and you need to be more strategic than ever. But it doesn’t stop there. We talk about why salon culture isn’t just a buzzword, it's a must-have if you want to keep a solid team, and how defining career paths is no longer optional. Plus, the part nobody warns you about: the emotional toll of being “always on” as an owner.But don’t worry—we’re not here to scare you off. We’re giving you the playbook to do it successfully. If opening a salon is on your vision board, this episode is your blueprint for doing it the smart way in 2025.

In this episode, we’re diving into some spicy but necessary conversations every salon owner and stylist needs to hear. Where’s the line between being the boss and being a friend? Is it a red flag when salons refer to their team as “family”? We break down what healthy boundaries really look like. We also open up about the biggest money lessons we’ve learned in the industry, getting comfortable with talking about money, and why being afraid of the conversation can actually hurt your business. Plus getting real about a tough truth: why clients actually leave their stylists. Spoiler alert—it’s not always about the hair. Whether you’re new to the game or ready for your next level, this episode will leave you thinking!

In this episode, we sit down with one of our top stylists, Mia Gomez, whose journey is nothing short of inspiring. From the moment she joined our team, Mia committed herself to growth—rising through multiple promotions, and ultimately becoming a powerful mentor to the next generation of stylists. Mia opens up about the struggles she faced early on, the mindset shifts that helped her grow, and how those same struggles have become her greatest strengths. Now, she’s not just building her own career—she’s teaching others how to hit KPIs, elevate their skill sets, and step into their own leadership potential. If you're looking for motivation, real talk, and a behind-the-scenes look at what it means to grow in this industry, this episode is for you.

Getting a bad review or dealing with a client redo can feel like a punch to the gut—but it doesn’t have to wreck your confidence or your business. In this episode of Go Ham, we’re breaking down how to handle negative feedback with professionalism, turn redos into opportunities, and set boundaries to protect your time and energy. Whether you're a stylist, salon owner, or service provider, this is your game plan for keeping your reputation strong while keeping your sanity intact. Tune in and learn how to turn tough situations into wins! 

Thinking about stepping back behind the chair? In this episode, we break down the pros and cons of hands-on work in the salon VS running the show behind the scenes. Whether you’re a salon owner looking to boost revenue, reconnect with clients, or fill gaps in your team, we discuss what needs to happen before making the decision. Plus, we’ll cover who should consider it, who shouldn’t, and how to set yourself up for success if you do. Tune in for a real talk on balancing leadership and life behind the chair!

In this episode of Go Ham, we sit down with powerhouse lash artist and entrepreneur Alejandra Uribe, who came to the U.S. from Colombia with a dream and built an unstoppable lash empire—now spanning three locations and a thriving education hub. Alejandra shares her inspiring journey, the challenges she faced as an entrepreneur, and how she turned passion into a business that empowers other artists. If you're looking for motivation to go after what you want—no matter where you start—this episode is a must-listen!

In this powerful episode, we’re diving into a topic often brushed under the rug—the stigma of drugs and alcohol in the salon industry. We discuss how substance use sometimes gets a pass in the beauty world and the pressures that can make it feel ever-present. From exploring why substance abuse is so common in service industries to challenging the unfair stereotype that all hairstylists are involved, we’re here to shed light on the real issues and share ways to stay grounded. This is an honest conversation about managing rising substance abuse and it's effects on mental health.

In this episode, we're diving deep into what it takes to have a successful Apprentice Program! Join us as we sit down with our lead educator, Carrie Smith, who shares her insights on training new cosmetology graduates. We'll discuss the expectations graduates bring, the process we use to get them floor-ready, and the unique strengths and areas for growth we see in this new generation of stylists. Whether you’re an aspiring stylist or a salon owner, this episode offers valuable insights on setting up future pros for success. Don’t miss out!

Curious about the different paths in the salon industry? In this episode, we break down the three main salon business models—booth rental, commission, and salon suites—and explore how they vary from the East Coast to the West Coast. We sit down with Aubrey Vautrin, who shares her journey of leaving our commission salon to try her hand in California’s salon scene. After experiencing each business model, she made her way back to us. Whether you're just starting out or looking to change things up, we'll help you figure out which model fits your personality and career goals best. Don’t miss these insights!

In this episode, we’re sitting down with our social media manager, Lexi Fredericks, to tackle the ever-changing world of social media trends! From what’s working (and what’s not) for our salon’s online presence to tailored strategies for different types of content on each platform, we cover it all. Lexi also shares why having someone driven and tuned into the social media landscape is a must-have for any salon team looking to stay ahead. If you’re interested in maximizing your social impact, this conversation is packed with valuable insights and practical tips!

In this episode of Go Ham: Unleashed, we’re talking all things trending on Instagram that are shaking up the beauty industry. We’re joined by Jayde Yorgey, a talented Gen Z stylist who shares her fresh perspective on retention, tipping culture, and what it takes to keep clients coming back. Jayde also opens up about her journey from a challenging start to becoming a successful stylist with our team. Tune in for real talk on industry trends, client loyalty, and inspiration for anyone looking to make their mark!

In this episode, we’re pulling back the curtain on how we plan for a successful year in our salon business. Join us as we dive into the collaborative process with our leadership team, where we analyze sales plans, identify what’s working (and what’s not), and brainstorm strategies to overcome challenges. It’s a real talk about setting goals, addressing struggles, and creating actionable plans to elevate our business. Whether you’re a salon owner, manager, or just curious about how to lead with intention, this episode is packed with insights to help you plan, pivot, and grow.

In this episode, we sit down with Lindsay Hilden, a powerhouse stylist who recently pulled in an impressive $5,000 in service sales in a single day. Lindsay shares her journey from where she started to the strategies, mindset, and work ethic that have paved the way for her success behind the chair. We dive into the planning that goes into big days like this, the core services that make up the bread and butter of her business, and her approach to client relationships. Lindsay also shares her vision for sustaining this kind of success long-term, her daily practices, and the mindset shifts that have helped her thrive. If you’re a stylist, business owner, or just someone curious about what it takes to level up in the beauty industry, this episode is a goldmine. Don’t miss Lindsay’s insights on achieving extraordinary success, one appointment at a time!

As salon owners, we’re all trying to make as few costly mistakes as possible, but let’s face it—that’s just not realistic! In this episode, we’re diving into the top mistakes every salon owner should avoid, breaking down everything we wish we’d done differently. From hiring a coach to investing in subpar equipment, we’re covering it all so you don’t have to learn the hard way. Whether you’re a current salon owner or planning to become one, tune in and save yourself the headaches we’ve already had!

Thinking about opening a salon? In this episode, we sit down with Dayna Bushong, our newest partner who opened Prive Salon at Malvern in February. Dayna shares the real deal on the challenges of launching a salon, including the financial investment, navigating the shift from working behind the chair to leading a team, and balancing it all with life’s curveballs. If you’re curious about what it takes to build a salon today, join us as Dayna breaks down her journey, from overcoming financial hurdles to finding ways to keep herself grounded amidst the chaos.

In this episode, we’re diving into one of the hottest topics in the salon world: strategies for taking new clients. Some stylists choose to close their books completely, others stick to strictly referrals, and some are all about welcoming new guests. We explore the different perspectives, weighing the pros and cons of each approach. Plus, we break down some of the most controversial social media posts where industry pros share their views on the topic. Whether you’re a stylist figuring out your next move or a salon owner looking to guide your team, this episode offers valuable insights into navigating the world of new clients. Don’t miss it!

In this episode, we’re getting real about the challenges of balancing the demands of being a hands-on mom while also having a career. It’s not easy to juggle the roles, but we’re here to share the organizing hacks and strategies that have helped us stay on top of it all. Tune in as we talk about finding that balance—how to stay present with your kids while having the energy and focus to face the daily grind of business ownership. Whether you're struggling to keep it all together or just looking for a few new tips to boost your efficiency, this episode is packed with practical advice to help you be your best self, both as a mom and a boss.

In this episode, we’re excited to welcome special guest and salon coach Kierstin Nemer from Summit Salon Business Center! We dive into the common challenges that salon owners face—from managing teams to growing their businesses—and explore how having the right guidance can make all the difference. Kierstin shares the key benefits of hiring a coach, including personalized strategies, accountability, and the tools needed to level up your salon’s success. Whether you're struggling with leadership, culture, or growth, this conversation is packed with insights to help you overcome obstacles and take your business to the next level. Tune in for some serious wisdom from one of the industry’s best!

In this episode, we dive into the key strategies for recruiting your salon dream team through a consistent and authentic social media presence. Discover how showcasing who you are, what you do, and what it’s like to be part of your team can help attract the right people. We’ll also cover the perks and benefits that set your salon apart, beyond just competitive compensation—because while money matters, it’s not the only reason stylists choose their salon. We break down our easy application process through our website and why we’re always on the lookout for talent. You’ll also get an inside look at our interview process and steps we take before hiring. Plus, we’ll share some green lights to look for in potential hires, and the red flags that signal they might not be the right fit. If you’re ready to build a winning team, this episode is a must-listen!

In this episode, we’re diving into what it really takes to elevate your leadership game. We’re sharing the top 5 things we do to enhance our skills as leaders, both in and out of the salon. From continuously investing in education to creating a routine that replaces unproductiveness with personal growth, we’ll give you the tools to set yourself up for success. We also discuss the power of experimenting through trial and error, the importance of emotional intelligence, and how connecting with your team on a personal level can make all the difference. Plus, we explore how having a solid inner circle—mentors, other leaders, and trusted advisors—can guide you in making key decisions. Whether you're a salon owner or aspiring leader, this episode is packed with practical tips to help you grow!

Join us as we dive into our unforgettable experience at an exclusive salon owners retreat, led by the one and only Daniel Mason Jones! This episode takes you behind the scenes of an intensive program designed for salon owners and managers ready to elevate their businesses to new heights. We share insights from expert-led seminars, interactive sessions, and hands-on activities tailored to help tackle the unique challenges of running a successful salon.From leadership strategies to advanced management techniques, this retreat was packed with game-changing knowledge and networking opportunities with industry peers and top professionals. Whether you're looking to enhance team performance, streamline your operations, or grow your client base, this episode is a must-listen for any salon owner eager to succeed in today’s competitive beauty industry.