Inspiring Salon Professionals

Maria Rylott-Byrd shares her extensive journey in the world of skin therapy, revealing the evolution of her career from a traditional beauty therapist to a dedicated corneotherapist. With over 35 years of experience, she brings a wealth of knowledge to the podcast, discussing the intricate science behind corneotherapy - a practice that focuses on working with the skin's natural functions rather than against them. Maria's approach emphasises the importance of maintaining skin health through holistic practices that respect the skin's barrier function, and she dives into the details of her own clinic and the thriving Corneotherapy Circle she founded. The conversation takes a deep dive into how corneotherapy differs from traditional beauty treatments, highlighting the necessity of understanding skin science to effectively address various skin conditions. Maria explains the significance of using biomimetic ingredients that the skin recognises, which helps to restore and maintain its natural balance. This nuanced understanding of skin not only aids in treating clients but also empowers therapists to build a more sustainable and ethical practice. For those interested in advancing their skills, Maria discusses her accredited course, Epidermal Skin Health, which aims to bridge the gap between foundational training and advanced skin therapy knowledge. She encourages therapists to embrace this science-based approach to enhance their practice and offer their clients a more effective solution to their skin issues.Takeaways: Corneotherapy focuses on understanding the skin's natural functions and supporting its health holistically. Maria Rylott-Byrd emphasises the importance of educating therapists on skin science beyond just products. The course on Epidermal Skin Health aims to bridge gaps in foundational knowledge for aspiring corneotherapists. Learning corneotherapy can empower therapists to offer more effective and personalised skincare treatments. Holistic approaches in skincare involve addressing underlying issues like diet and stress, not just topical symptoms. Corneotherapy encourages a shift from aggressive treatments to nurturing the skin's natural barrier function. Links referenced in this episode:saviournails.co.uksue-davies.comthecorneotherapyconsultant.co.ukCompanies mentioned in this episode: Corneotherapy Circle Saviour The Salon Inspector Habia

Tracy Fensome joins us today to share her extensive journey in the world of permanent makeup (PMU) and aesthetics, highlighting the importance of adapting in a constantly changing world.. With over two decades of experience, Tracy has navigated the ups and downs of beauty entrepreneurship, facing challenges like burnout and the need for business pivots. She emphasises the significance of building a business that supports your lifestyle rather than the other way around, advocating for beauty professionals to seek sustainable practices that bring both personal and professional growth. Throughout our conversation, we explore strategies for avoiding burnout, the power of education, and the necessity of understanding your own worth in pricing services. If you’re looking to thrive in the beauty industry, Tracy’s insights could be just what you need to inspire and motivate your next steps.The conversation provides a look into the world of permanent makeup (PMU) and aesthetics. Tracy recounts her late entry into the field, emphasising how her diverse professional background has enriched her understanding of beauty and client care. We touch upon the pressing issue of burnout in the beauty sector, as Tracy shares her strategies for maintaining passion and purpose amidst the challenges that come with running a business. This episode also highlights the significance of ethical practices and the continuous pursuit of education, which Tracy advocates for as essential in establishing client trust and building credibility. Our discussion highlights the necessity for beauty pros to adapt to changing market demands. By the end of our conversation, it's clear that Tracy's mission extends beyond her own success; it is about uplifting others in the beauty community, and about creating an environment where professionals can thrive both personally and financially. With some great practical advice and motivational stories that I'm sure will resonate.Takeaways: Tracy emphasises the importance of adapting your business model to prevent burnout, sharing her personal journey in PMU and aesthetics. Building connections with clients through meaningful consultations can lead to better service outcomes and client satisfaction. The podcast highlights the significance of balancing personal life with business aspirations, urging professionals to create businesses that support their lifestyles. Tracy discusses the changing beauty industry, suggesting that professionals should stay updated with trends like natural aesthetics rather than solely relying on injectables. The conversation explores the value of education in the beauty industry, encouraging professionals to consider teaching as an avenue for additional income and personal growth. Highlighting the importance of marketing and how successful professionals must actively engage in promoting their services through various channels, including social media and traditional methods. Companies mentioned in this episode: Jena VTCT ITEC

Navigating the beauty industry can feel like a rollercoaster ride, especially for solo professionals and salon owners who need to juggle multiple roles every day. In this solo episode, I'm laying it all on the table as I tackle the challenge often felt between confidence and visibility. I reflect on how many of us, despite being skilled at our craft, might struggle with the some aspects of our profession like showcasing our work online or asserting our worth in client communications. It's a struggle that resonates with so many, and I’m here to shed light on it and offer a few words of advice.I draw from personal experiences, including my journey through building the 'Confidently Visible' programme, which is designed to help salon professionals step into their power and showcase their uniqueness with confidence. We discuss the impact of mindset on everything from pricing strategies to handling client complaints. The truth is, confidence is a big component that influences how we conduct our business, yet it’s often neglected in our training. This episode invites listeners to explore their self-doubts and understand that confidence can and should be cultivated. I share tips and techniques, such as journaling achievements and practicing positive affirmations, which can help shift our internal dialogues toward a more empowering narrative.We also dive into some of the emotional barriers that can hold us back like imposter syndrome, the need for perfection, and the fear of judgment from others. By addressing these issues directly, I hope to provide a better understanding of why confidence matters in our sector and how we can actively work to build it. The episode is both a personal reflection and a motivational call to action for salon professionals to embrace their journeys, acknowledge their worth, and ultimately, to become the confident faces of their brands. I hope to instil a sense of camaraderie among you, the listeners, reminding you that you are not alone in your struggles and that confidence is something we can all work on together.Takeaways: Confidence isn't just a feeling; it's a skill that requires practice and self-reflection in our work. Many salon professionals struggle with self-doubt, especially when they step into the role of solopreneur; it's important to address this. Understanding the importance of visibility in our businesses can significantly change how clients perceive our value. Imposter syndrome and comparison-itis are common challenges, but recognising our achievements can help us overcome these hurdles. Setting boundaries with clients is essential for maintaining a healthy work-life balance and managing workload effectively. Building confidence is a journey, and practicing self-affirmation and mindfulness can lead to substantial personal growth. Companies mentioned in this episode: Jena Carl Hinder - Salon Help Maddie Cook Sue Davies The Salon Inspector

Mother’s Day can be a complicated time, especially as we work predominantly with women and where we often find ourselves navigating the wide variety of emotions tied to motherhood. In this reflective solo episode, I talk about the challenges that come with this day, from the joy of new mothers celebrating their first Mothers' Day to the deep sorrow of those who have faced baby loss or maternal loss. I share my own experiences, including the reality of losing my own mother and how that has impacted my perspective on motherhood and the expectations that come with it. We also touch on the importance of recognising the choices some women make not to become mothers and how our understanding and sensitivity as salon professionals can profoundly affect our clients and our teams. Let’s take a moment to acknowledge the diverse experiences surrounding motherhood and how we can create a more compassionate environment in our businesses.It's a complicated time for many and in our role as salon professionals where the dynamics of motherhood are intricately woven into our daily lives as service providers. As I reflect on my own experiences, I share some of the diverse issues surrounding motherhood. This episode goes into the realities of being a mother while also honouring those who have faced the the emotional challenges of baby loss, fertility struggles, and the decision not to become a parent at all. We recognise the spectrum of motherhood, from the joy of new beginnings with first-time mothers to the sorrow of those who remember a child they lost. It’s a day that can bring joy for some but can also be a poignant reminder for others of what they’ve lost or may never have. The complexities of these experiences are often overlooked in a business where we are expected to maintain a facade of cheerfulness and positivity at all times. I encourage listeners to take a moment to reflect on how these issues impact not just our clients but also ourselves and our teams. It’s essential to provide a supportive environment within our salons, acknowledging that not everyone celebrates Mothers' Day in the same way. We should approach this day with sensitivity and kindness, recognising the varying emotions it can evoke for those we serve. This episode is a heartfelt reminder to celebrate the diversity of motherhood and to be mindful of those who may be silently struggling on this day.Takeaways: Mothers' Day can be a complex emotional landscape for those in the salon industry, reflecting both joy and profound loss. We must acknowledge the diverse experiences of motherhood, from new moms to those facing maternal loss and infertility issues. As salon professionals, we hold space for our clients' stories of motherhood, which can include pain, loss, and the choice not to become a mother. The pressure to return to work after experiencing loss can lead to delayed grief, affecting our well-being and our ability to serve clients. It's essential to create an environment where clients can opt out of Mothers' Day celebrations if it brings them pain or discomfort. Understanding and supporting the varied journeys of motherhood can foster a deeper connection with our clients and team members. Companies mentioned in this episode: Jena - https://www.jena.so/partnerships/sue-davies Tommy's Appeal - https://www.tommys.org/about-us The Salon Inspector - https://sue-davies.com

Please note that this was a live recording and there are a few sound glitches here and there. Today, we dive into The Meta Disconnect and how salon business owner can rethink their marketing strategies beyond social media. With a panel of industry experts including Ryan Power, Helen Ward, Theresa Foddering, and Sam Blake, we tackle the challenges posed by recent shifts in Meta's policies that could impact how we connect with clients. From the dangers of placing too much reliance on platforms we don't control, to the vital importance of building direct relationships with our clients through email lists and traditional marketing tactics, we explore a range of approaches that may bring better long term results. Each panelist brings their own perspective, emphasising the need for sustainable practices that keep our businesses thriving in a noisy marketplace. Join us as we discuss a variety of ideas and inspire you to take steps towards reimagining how you market your business on and offline.The world of salon marketing is evolving, and in this live episode of Inspiring Salon Professionals, host Sue Davies and a panel of industry experts delve into the implications of the 'Meta Disconnect'—a phenomenon emerging from recent changes in social media platforms that could significantly affect how salons promote themselves. Featured on the panel are Ryan Power of Salonology, Helen Ward from The Hair & Beauty Directory, Theresa Foddering - The Naildresser, and Sam Blake - The Safer Salon Geek, who each bring their own individual perspectives to the conversation. As the discussion unfolds, the panel addresses the challenges salon owners face in a landscape where social media's reliability is increasingly questioned. With recent policy shifts from Meta that have raised concerns about content moderation and the safety of marginalised voices, the experts emphasise the urgency for salons to rethink their marketing strategies. Ryan Power warns against the dangers of building a business solely on social media, likening it to walking a tightrope without a safety net. The panelists propose a multi-faceted approach to marketing that includes leveraging email communications, engaging with local communities, and exploring offline promotional avenues. Throughout the episode, listeners are encouraged to reflect on their current marketing practices and consider how they can diversify their outreach efforts. The conversation highlights the importance of connecting authentically with clients and suggests practical steps such as collaborations with local businesses, using directories, and maximising the potential of a healthy website. By shifting the focus back to foundational marketing strategies, salon owners can ensure their businesses remain resilient and adaptable in an ever-changing digital landscape. This episode is a call to action for salon professionals to reclaim their marketing power beyond the confines of social media.Takeaways: The podcast emphasises the need to diversify marketing strategies beyond social media to protect your salon's visibility and client connection. Panelists highlight that building a business solely on social media is risky due to potential platform changes and account issues. Utilising email marketing and direct communication methods can create a more secure and reliable client engagement strategy. The conversation stresses the importance of local networking and collaborations to enhance business visibility and client loyalty. Experts agree that traditional marketing methods, like leaflet drops, still hold value in attracting clients within your local area. The discussion touches on the need for salon professionals to understand and utilise platforms like Google Business to improve search visibility. Links referenced in this episode:<a href="https://su-davies.com" rel="noopener...

Kerry Beavis joins us today to dive deep into the world of self-care, Pilates, and the journey of burnout recovery. At the heart of our conversation is the vital importance of prioritising self-care as a non-negotiable aspect of life, especially for us in the demanding salon and wellness industries. Kerry shares her own experiences, from navigating the ups and downs of her 20+ year beauty career to embracing the holistic practices that have allowed her to empower others. We discuss how small, intentional rituals can transform our lives and businesses, ultimately leading to greater balance and fulfilment. Join us as we explore the transformative power of self-awareness, movement, and nurturing our inner selves, reminding us that taking care of ourselves is the first step toward helping others thrive.This is a heartfelt chat about self-care, Pilates, and the importance of avoiding burnout in the hectic beauty industry. Kerry has navigated her way through both triumphs and challenges, from winning Professional Beauty Therapist of the Year back in 2016 to mentoring others in the wellness field. In our conversation, we dive deep into the transformative power of self-care, emphasising that it should be routine for everyone.We reflect on our personal journeys, discussing the importance of recognising the signs of burnout and the necessity of taking time to recharge. Whether it’s through Pilates, meditation, or simply allowing ourselves moments of peace, Kerry's message is clear: prioritise your well-being to thrive not just in business but in life itself.EXCLUSIVE OFFERKerry's very kindly giving all ISP audience members a free month on her Balanced With Kerry self care membership. Simply visit her balanced sanctuary sign up and enter code:CODE - SUEDAVIS100 and you will get their first month for free, then a rolling monthly payment of £9.99.This is a limited offer so may not be available if you are trying to redeem at a later date.Takeaways: Self-care isn't just a luxury; it's a necessary practice to prevent burnout in the beauty industry. Kerry emphasises the importance of fostering a mindful connection to our bodies through practices like Pilates and breath work. Creating a supportive community among therapists can significantly enhance personal and professional well-being. It's essential to recognise that choosing to prioritise self-care can lead to better outcomes in both business and personal life. Links referenced in this episode:balancedwithkerry.comsue-davies.comCompanies mentioned in this episode: Professional Beauty Jena (ISP Brand Partner) SEJ (Salon Education Journal) The Salon Inspector™️ Scratch Stars Balanced with Kerry

Body confidence and inclusion are more than just buzzwords in the salon industry; they are essential elements that shape the experiences of everyone involved, from clients to professionals. In this episode, I sit down with Amy Bates, a body confidence coach and passionate advocate for inclusivity, to explore how fostering a welcoming and body-positive environment can significantly impact salons. We delve into the importance of representation and the need for salon owners and teams to actively create spaces where all individuals feel valued and empowered, regardless of their shape, size, or background. Amy shares her journey and insights on how understanding body image issues affects not only the clients but also the professionals working in the industry. Tune in as we discuss actionable strategies that salon owners can implement to cultivate a more inclusive atmosphere, ultimately enhancing the overall client experience and team dynamics.Diving deep into the realms of body confidence and inclusion within the salon industry, Amy Bates brings a fresh perspective that challenges the status quo. We explore how the salon environment can either bolster or undermine a client's self-esteem, with Amy sharing her journey from police work to becoming a body confidence coach. Her insights reveal the profound impact that inclusivity can have, not just on clients but also on salon professionals and owners. The conversation touches on the necessity of creating spaces where all body types are celebrated and accepted, emphasising that the salon should be a sanctuary for everyone, regardless of size, shape, or background. We reflect on the real-world implications of body image issues in the salon and how professionals can better support their clients in navigating these challenges. This episode underlines the importance of empathy, understanding, and the need for salon owners to adopt inclusive practices to foster a welcoming atmosphere.Much of the conversation revolves around Amy's new book, Beauty & The Bullsh*t where she gives background on this important subject as well as actionable chapters to help readers make changes in their world.Takeaways: Creating an inclusive salon environment fosters body confidence among team members and clients alike, directly enhancing the overall experience. Understanding the nuances of body image and diversity in the salon industry can significantly improve client relationships and retention rates. Professionals in the beauty industry must recognise their own biases and how they can impact the mental well-being of both clients and colleagues. Using proper inclusive language and imagery in marketing can help clients feel welcome and represented, leading to a more loyal customer base. Building a culture of openness around body positivity and mental health issues not only strengthens the team but also creates a safer space for clients. Incorporating training on body confidence and inclusion as part of professional development can elevate service standards and improve staff morale. Buy Amy's book Beauty & the Bullsh*tFind Amy on Insta - @the_beauty_rebellionand LinkedInInspiring Salon Professionals is produced in partnership with Jena, the online booking system for solo beauty pros. You can find out more by clicking my partner link hereCompanies mentioned in this episode: Brastop Jena Beauty Rebellion WUCA Tommy's Cancer Trust

Maximising your salon's visibility online is a necessary part of business ownership, and in this episode, we dive deep into how to leverage Google Business Profile and your Apple Business Showcase to make that happen. As a salon business, it’s an essential part of your client journey to ensure potential clients can easily find you, and these platforms are game changers for this task. We explore how setting up these profiles not only boosts your local SEO but also enhances your credibility and engagement with clients, all at no cost. I’ll walk you through the steps to get started, share insights on optimising your listings, and highlight the importance of keeping your information fresh and relevant. Tune in to discover strategies that can transform your online presence and attract more clients to your salon.Sue Davies provides a wealth of insights into maximising online visibility for salon businesses through Google Business Profile and Apple Business Connect and the Apple Business Showcase. The episode highlights the importance of these platforms in the digital marketplace, where potential clients are primarily searching for services through Google or Apple Maps. Sue stresses that if a salon is not listed or listed but not optimised on these platforms, they are likely to miss out on numerous opportunities, as clients will gravitate towards competitors who are more visible online or have completed and are maintaining this shop window.Sue gives an in-depth analysis of Google Business Profile - formerly known as Google My Business - and breaks down its functionalities. She explains how it serves as a vital tool for local SEO, enhancing a salon's online presence by providing essential information such as contact details, operating hours, and customer reviews. Sue shares specific strategies for optimising these listings, including the significance of using high-quality images and creating a welcoming business description that resonates with potential clients. The ease of interaction that the platform offers, such as booking appointments directly from the profile, is highlighted as a major advantage.Transitioning to Apple Business Connect/Showcase, Sue reveals the significance of being present on this platform as well. With a large number of clients using Apple devices, having a presence on Apple Maps can significantly boost business visibility. Sue discusses the similarities and differences between the two platforms, encouraging salon owners to utilise both to extend their reach. She concludes the episode with a sneak peek into her upcoming course aimed at helping salon business owners navigate these digital tools effectively, underscoring that this knowledge is essential for anyone wanting to thrive in the salon industry today.Takeaways: Utilising Google Business Profile effectively can significantly enhance your salon's online visibility and client engagement. Apple Business Connect & Showcase offers a new opportunity for salons to reach clients on Apple Maps and increase trustworthiness. Both Google and Apple platforms provide free tools that can help attract warm clients who are already interested in your services. Regularly updating your business profiles with fresh content is crucial for maintaining an active online presence and credibility. SEO strategies are important in optimising your profiles and relevant keywords will help potential clients find your salon first. Being listed on both Google and Apple platforms increases your chances of being discovered by clients searching for your services. Links referenced in this episode:sue-davies.comaskthepublic.com<a href="https://buymeacoffee.com" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

Data protection and UK GDPR compliance is an important but often misunderstood topic in our industry, affecting every salon professional and owner. Today, we dive into the complex world of the GDPR law, with Robin Banks from Adavista, who specialises in helping businesses navigate these regulations with confidence. We discuss the changes that came into effect back in 2018 and the ongoing challenges solo & salon business owners face in ensuring compliance while managing client information. From understanding ICO registration to handling client data properly, this episode aims to demystify the GDPR minefield and provide actionable insights. We also explore the nuances of data portability and the responsibilities and challenges that may come with using third-party booking systems, ensuring you're well-equipped to protect your business and your clients. Tune in for an enlightening conversation that will empower you to embrace compliance without fear. Grab a notepad and pen - you may need one!Data protection and compliance can feel like a labyrinth, especially for salon pros navigating the subject of GDPR. This episode features Robyn Banks, a GDPR expert, who simplifies the regulations affecting businesses of all sizes, whether you're running a solo side hustle or managing a multi-location salon. We explore the evolution of data protection laws, focusing on the significant changes that came with GDPR in 2018, and the ongoing implications for how client data is handled. Robyn clarifies essential considerations such as data portability and how your booking system has to enable the movement of your client data, the necessity for ICO registration, and the importance of privacy notices, all while ensuring that the conversation remains approachable and devoid of legal jargon. By the end of our discussion, listeners will be equipped with practical strategies for ensuring compliance, safeguarding client trust, and avoiding the pitfalls that can arise from mishandling personal data.In this informative episode, we tackle the often-overlooked aspects of data protection in the beauty and wellness industry. Robyn emphasises the responsibilities salon owners have when collecting and processing personal data, highlighting the need for clear communication with clients regarding their rights. We also discuss the important role of documentation, from subject access requests to the importance of keeping accurate records of client interactions. Robyn's insights serve as a valuable reminder that data protection is not just a legal obligation but a fundamental component of maintaining a professional and trustworthy business. For salon professionals unsure of their compliance status, this episode provides a wealth of information and practical advice to help them navigate the complexities of GDPR with confidence.As we explore the nuances of GDPR, Robyn offers a wealth of knowledge that is both practical and essential for salon professionals. This episode sheds light on the critical areas of data portability and the rights clients have regarding their personal information. Robyn discusses the importance of maintaining compliance not only to avoid fines but also to maintain a trusting relationship with clients. We delve into the specifics of how to implement GDPR regulations effectively, including the necessity of privacy notices and the potential pitfalls of neglecting data protection duties. The conversation is designed to empower salon owners and professionals, equipping them to handle client data responsibly. With clear explanations and actionable steps, listeners will leave with a solid understanding of how to integrate GDPR into their business practices without feeling overwhelmed.Takeaways: Understanding GDPR is crucial for every business, regardless of size or nature, as it applies universally to personal data handling. Simultaneous compliance with GDPR and effective data management means...

Dealing with the challenges of an illegal business operating above your salon can feel like your worst nightmare, and in this episode I'll share my journey through what was a difficult situation. When a brothel moved in right above my treatment rooms, I was thrown into a period of stress and uncertainty that impacted my business and my clients. It forced me to confront not just the immediate noise and disruption, but also the long-term implications for my reputation and client relationships. This episode looks at the lessons I learned during that tough time, from navigating conversations with clients to dealing with landlords, letting agents and local authorities. Ultimately, I emerged with a newfound resilience and a clearer understanding of how to tackle adversity head-on. If you’re facing similar challenges, I hope my experiences can offer some guidance and support.Sue Davies, the host of the podcast, shares a challenging experience that most salon owners never have to face but will understand the impact of: having a brothel operating directly above her business. The episode unpacks the many layers of this situation, beginning with the moment Sue and her team first noticed the unusual activity above her salon, quickly escalating into a damage limitation crisis. As she describes the initial disbelief and confusion, the chaotic world of a small business owner grappling with unexpected adversity like this will become apparent.The story takes a more serious tone as Sue reflects on the emotional and professional ramifications of having a brothel overhead. She confronts the fear and anxiety that came with the realisation that her clients might associate her salon with the illicit activities taking place above and sharing an entrance space with her business. This episode is filled with the her determination to protect her business's reputation, illustrating the lengths to which she went to manage the situation and turn Nancy Drew. From communicating with clients to exploring legal options, Sue's journey through this challenge showcases the resilience required to navigate such a tumultuous experience. Additionally, the episode serves as a cautionary tale for other salon professionals, highlighting the importance of vigilance in their neighbourhoods and the potential for illegal activities to impact their livelihoods as Sue shares how once the brothel was gone the tenant then introduced a cannabis farm. Sue's story is not only about survival but also about how her salon community and the connections formed over years in the local area meant she was able to make an impact on the situation. She emphasises the necessity of reaching out for support and gaining knowledge around the law when something unexpected happens.This episode is a powerful reminder of the unexpected challenges that can arise in the beauty industry and the strength it takes to overcome them.Takeaways: Navigating the complexities of running a salon with an illegal business above it can be daunting and stressful, requiring careful consideration and immediate action. Transparency with clients about the challenges faced due to illicit activities can help maintain trust and understanding during tough times. Engaging local authorities and legal support is important when dealing with illegal business operations, as they can provide guidance and protection. Building a strong community network can aid in addressing and resolving issues that arise from neighbouring illegal businesses, enabling support and sharing of information. Documenting everything and being persistent in reporting illegal activities can create a paper trail that may help law enforcement take action. Ultimately, overcoming adversity in business requires resilience, creativity, and a proactive approach to problem-solving in the face of unexpected challenges. Links referenced in...