The Hair Game

Hosted by Salon Republic

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656

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Nov 2026

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About the show

The Hair Game is a series brought to you by Salon Republic and hosted by founder Eric Taylor, who, after 25 yrs in the hair game, has seen a lot of s#!@ go down. We go deep with the beauty industry's most interesting players, we educate and tell stories about the things you care about, and we get into the business side of the game so you can earn more and keep more. Also check out the video content on salonrepublic.com/thehairgame.

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60 recent

November 9, 2026Episode 45240 min

Ep. 452 • Why Confidence Goes Beyond Your Skills Behind the Chair w/ Sam Lacoste

In this episode, @hairbysamlacoste shares her journey from Winnipeg, Canada, to becoming a successful salon owner and educator. She discusses how she built her career in the hair industry, from completing her apprenticeship and gaining hands-on experience to eventually opening her own salon. Samantha breaks down why confidence, business education, and understanding your numbers are essential for long-term success. She also explores how salon marketing is evolving in 2026, including the growing role of AI, searchability, and digital strategies in helping hairstylists attract clients and grow their businesses. Key Topics Why hands-on experience, continued education, and learning from others are essential to developing as a hairstylist. Balancing technical hair education with the business knowledge needed to become a successful salon owner. What Samantha learned from opening her own salon and some of the common mistakes salon owners make. Why confidence is key in the hair industry and how understanding your numbers and skills can help overcome self-doubt. How salon marketing is changing in 2026 and why having a strong online presence matters. The growing impact of AI on searchability and how potential clients discover hairstylists and salons. Traditional client-building strategies, including networking and word-of-mouth, compared to today's digital marketing approaches. Common challenges struggling salons face and how business knowledge can help owners make better decisions. Why hairstylists should be proactive, ask for opportunities, and take ownership of their professional growth. Video versions of our episodes are on our YouTube channel for you to watch! Subscribe to our channel The Hair Game on YouTube and check out 'The Hair Game Podcast' playlist. Our podcast thrives on the opinions of you, the listener... if you have a moment (and you are an Apple user), please leave us a rating & review on the Apple podcasts app or iTunes! Here's what you do: Scroll down to 'Ratings & Reviews' Click on the empty purple stars (5 is the best)! Click on 'Write a Review' and let us know what you love most! Each rating & review helps us reach more and more of your fellow hair loves, and our goal is to help as many hairdressers as we can find success. Thanks in advance! FOLLOW US @thehairgamepodcast @salonrepublic @loveerictaylor FOLLOW SAM @hairbysamlacoste

November 9, 2026Episode 4524 min

HIGHLIGHTS • Why Confidence Goes Beyond Your Skills Behind the Chair w/ Sam Lacoste

These are clips highlighting some of the topics discussed in the full episode! Check it out if you want a bite-sized version of the full episode. In this episode, @hairbysamlacoste shares her journey from Winnipeg, Canada, to becoming a successful salon owner and educator. She discusses how she built her career in the hair industry, from completing her apprenticeship and gaining hands-on experience to eventually opening her own salon. Samantha breaks down why confidence, business education, and understanding your numbers are essential for long-term success. She also explores how salon marketing is evolving in 2026, including the growing role of AI, searchability, and digital strategies in helping hairstylists attract clients and grow their businesses. Key Topics Why hands-on experience, continued education, and learning from others are essential to developing as a hairstylist. Balancing technical hair education with the business knowledge needed to become a successful salon owner. What Samantha learned from opening her own salon and some of the common mistakes salon owners make. Why confidence is key in the hair industry and how understanding your numbers and skills can help overcome self-doubt. How salon marketing is changing in 2026 and why having a strong online presence matters. The growing impact of AI on searchability and how potential clients discover hairstylists and salons. Traditional client-building strategies, including networking and word-of-mouth, compared to today's digital marketing approaches. Common challenges struggling salons face and how business knowledge can help owners make better decisions. Why hairstylists should be proactive, ask for opportunities, and take ownership of their professional growth. Video versions of our episodes are on our YouTube channel for you to watch! Subscribe to our channel The Hair Game on YouTube and check out 'The Hair Game Podcast' playlist. Our podcast thrives on the opinions of you, the listener... if you have a moment (and you are an Apple user), please leave us a rating & review on the Apple podcasts app or iTunes! Here's what you do: Scroll down to 'Ratings & Reviews' Click on the empty purple stars (5 is the best)! Click on 'Write a Review' and let us know what you love most! Each rating & review helps us reach more and more of your fellow hair loves, and our goal is to help as many hairdressers as we can find success. Thanks in advance! FOLLOW US @thehairgamepodcast @salonrepublic @loveerictaylor FOLLOW SAM @hairbysamlacoste

October 26, 2026Episode 45132 min

Ep. 451 • How to use AI to improve your social media w/ Adele Potts

In this episode, @adelecatherine.social, a coach for hairdressers, shares her journey from being a fully booked hairdresser to helping beauty professionals grow their social media presence and create income beyond the chair. She breaks down how to find your niche, create authentic content that stands out in a crowded market, and use AI tools to plan content and understand your audience. Adele also shares how to use social media insights, market research, and digital products to grow your brand, reach the right people, and build multiple income streams beyond taking clients. Key Topics How Adele went from being a fully booked hairdresser to coaching other hairdressers on social media and business growth. Why building multiple income streams can help hairdressers grow beyond working behind the chair. How niching down helps you attract the right audience and stand out in a crowded market. Creating authentic, relatable content that connects with your audience and builds your personal brand. Strategies for growing your social media presence and turning your audience into income opportunities. Using AI tools like Claude to plan content, research ideas, and improve your social media strategy. How market research and exploring ideas from other industries can inspire fresh content. Using Instagram analytics and performance data to understand what works and improve your content strategy. Creating digital products and courses to share your knowledge and build income beyond client services. How hairdressers can use social media, content, and their expertise to create new opportunities for their businesses. Video versions of our episodes are on our YouTube channel for you to watch! Subscribe to our channel The Hair Game on YouTube and check out 'The Hair Game Podcast' playlist. Our podcast thrives on the opinions of you, the listener... if you have a moment (and you are an Apple user), please leave us a rating & review on the Apple podcasts app or iTunes! Here's what you do: Scroll down to 'Ratings & Reviews' Click on the empty purple stars (5 is the best)! Click on 'Write a Review' and let us know what you love most! Each rating & review helps us reach more and more of your fellow hair loves, and our goal is to help as many hairdressers as we can find success. Thanks in advance! FOLLOW US @thehairgamepodcast @salonrepublic @loveerictaylor FOLLOW ADELE @adelecatherine.social

October 26, 20264 min

HIGHLIGHTS • How to use AI to improve your social media w/ Adele Catherine

These are clips highlighting some of the topics discussed in the full episode! Check it out if you want a bite-sized version of the full episode. In this episode, @adelecatherine.social, a coach for hairdressers, shares her journey from being a fully booked hairdresser to helping beauty professionals grow their social media presence and create income beyond the chair. She breaks down how to find your niche, create authentic content that stands out in a crowded market, and use AI tools to plan content and understand your audience. Adele also shares how to use social media insights, market research, and digital products to grow your brand, reach the right people, and build multiple income streams beyond taking clients. Key Topics How Adele went from being a fully booked hairdresser to coaching other hairdressers on social media and business growth. Why building multiple income streams can help hairdressers grow beyond working behind the chair. How niching down helps you attract the right audience and stand out in a crowded market. Creating authentic, relatable content that connects with your audience and builds your personal brand. Strategies for growing your social media presence and turning your audience into income opportunities. Using AI tools like Claude to plan content, research ideas, and improve your social media strategy. How market research and exploring ideas from other industries can inspire fresh content. Using Instagram analytics and performance data to understand what works and improve your content strategy. Creating digital products and courses to share your knowledge and build income beyond client services. How hairdressers can use social media, content, and their expertise to create new opportunities for their businesses. Video versions of our episodes are on our YouTube channel for you to watch! Subscribe to our channel The Hair Game on YouTube and check out 'The Hair Game Podcast' playlist. Our podcast thrives on the opinions of you, the listener... if you have a moment (and you are an Apple user), please leave us a rating & review on the Apple podcasts app or iTunes! Here's what you do: Scroll down to 'Ratings & Reviews' Click on the empty purple stars (5 is the best)! Click on 'Write a Review' and let us know what you love most! Each rating & review helps us reach more and more of your fellow hair loves, and our goal is to help as many hairdressers as we can find success. Thanks in advance! FOLLOW US @thehairgamepodcast @salonrepublic @loveerictaylor FOLLOW ADELE @adelecatherine.social

October 12, 2026Episode 45042 min

Ep. 450 • What Every Hairstylist Should Know About Marketing Their Business

In this episode, Charlie Musson @beauhaircreations shares her journey from marketing to hairdressing and explains how beauty professionals can attract clients by staying authentic and building a strong online presence. She covers local SEO, referrals, online reviews, and strategies for growing a client book beyond social media. Charlie also shares tips on client consultations, pricing transparency, and using digital tools to grow a successful hair business. Key Topics Charlie's career transition and how her marketing background shaped her approach to the hair industry. Why staying true to yourself and showcasing your personality can help attract the right clients. Strategies for attracting new clients without depending entirely on social platforms. The value of continued training, developing your skills, and finding your niche in the hair industry. How word-of-mouth recommendations and strong client relationships support long-term growth. How optimizing your digital presence helps potential clients find your services in their area. Using client reviews and testimonials to build credibility and attract new business. Using AI and online tools to understand your audience, improve visibility, and communicate pricing clearly to build trust with clients. Video versions of our episodes are on our YouTube channel for you to watch! Subscribe to our channel The Hair Game on YouTube and check out 'The Hair Game Podcast' playlist. Our podcast thrives on the opinions of you, the listener... if you have a moment (and you are an Apple user), please leave us a rating & review on the Apple podcasts app or iTunes! Here's what you do: Scroll down to 'Ratings & Reviews' Click on the empty purple stars (5 is the best)! Click on 'Write a Review' and let us know what you love most! Each rating & review helps us reach more and more of your fellow hair loves, and our goal is to help as many hairdressers as we can find success. Thanks in advance! FOLLOW US @thehairgamepodcast @salonrepublic @loveerictaylor FOLLOW CHARLIE @beauhaircreations The Overs Hair Club

October 12, 2026Episode 4504 min

HIGHLIGHTS • What Every Hairstylist Should Know About Marketing Their Business

These are clips highlighting some of the topics discussed in the full episode! Check it out if you want a bite-sized version of the full episode. In this episode, Charlie Musson @beauhaircreations shares her journey from marketing to hairdressing and explains how beauty professionals can attract clients by staying authentic and building a strong online presence. She covers local SEO, referrals, online reviews, and strategies for growing a client book beyond social media. Charlie also shares tips on client consultations, pricing transparency, and using digital tools to grow a successful hair business. Key Topics Charlie's career transition and how her marketing background shaped her approach to the hair industry. Why staying true to yourself and showcasing your personality can help attract the right clients. Strategies for attracting new clients without depending entirely on social platforms. The value of continued training, developing your skills, and finding your niche in the hair industry. How word-of-mouth recommendations and strong client relationships support long-term growth. How optimizing your digital presence helps potential clients find your services in their area. Using client reviews and testimonials to build credibility and attract new business. Using AI and online tools to understand your audience, improve visibility, and communicate pricing clearly to build trust with clients. Video versions of our episodes are on our YouTube channel for you to watch! Subscribe to our channel The Hair Game on YouTube and check out 'The Hair Game Podcast' playlist. Our podcast thrives on the opinions of you, the listener... if you have a moment (and you are an Apple user), please leave us a rating & review on the Apple podcasts app or iTunes! Here's what you do: Scroll down to 'Ratings & Reviews' Click on the empty purple stars (5 is the best)! Click on 'Write a Review' and let us know what you love most! Each rating & review helps us reach more and more of your fellow hair loves, and our goal is to help as many hairdressers as we can find success. Thanks in advance! FOLLOW US @thehairgamepodcast @salonrepublic @loveerictaylor FOLLOW CHARLIE @beauhaircreations The Overs Hair Club

September 28, 2026Episode 44945 min

Ep. 449 • Why Your Craft Is Your Foundation w/ Adam Cunningham

In this episode, @ adamcunningham___ shares his journey from a young apprentice in Dublin to becoming a global educator. He opens up about the lessons that shaped his career, from persistence and continuous practice to developing personal style and understanding the value of quality craftsmanship. Adam also discusses pricing, education, client relationships, and the mindset it takes to build a lasting career in the hair industry. Key Topics Adam's journey from apprentice in Dublin to global educator The influence of his family and early experiences of his career The importance of persistence, practice, and continuous learning How personal style can reflect personality and identity The craftsmanship and quality behind Japanese and Damascus steel Building strong client relationships with a thick skin and soft heart Understanding pricing, value, and earning the right to charge your worth The importance of structure and clear standards in the industry The role of passion, love, and continuous self-improvement in building a successful career Video versions of our episodes are on our YouTube channel for you to watch! Subscribe to our channel The Hair Game on YouTube and check out 'The Hair Game Podcast' playlist. Our podcast thrives on the opinions of you, the listener... if you have a moment (and you are an Apple user), please leave us a rating & review on the Apple podcasts app or iTunes! Here's what you do: Scroll down to 'Ratings & Reviews' Click on the empty purple stars (5 is the best)! Click on 'Write a Review' and let us know what you love most! Each rating & review helps us reach more and more of your fellow hair loves, and our goal is to help as many hairdressers as we can find success. Thanks in advance! FOLLOW US @thehairgamepodcast @salonrepublic @loveerictaylor FOLLOW ADAM @ adamcunningham___

September 28, 2026Episode 4495 min

HIGHLIGHTS • Why Your Craft Is Your Foundation w/ Adam Cunningham

These are clips highlighting some of the topics discussed in the full episode! Check it out if you want a bite-sized version of the full episode. In this episode, @ adamcunningham___ shares his journey from a young apprentice in Dublin to becoming a global educator. He opens up about the lessons that shaped his career, from persistence and continuous practice to developing personal style and understanding the value of quality craftsmanship. Adam also discusses pricing, education, client relationships, and the mindset it takes to build a lasting career in the hair industry. Key Topics Adam's journey from apprentice in Dublin to global educator The influence of his family and early experiences of his career The importance of persistence, practice, and continuous learning How personal style can reflect personality and identity The craftsmanship and quality behind Japanese and Damascus steel Building strong client relationships with a thick skin and soft heart Understanding pricing, value, and earning the right to charge your worth The importance of structure and clear standards in the industry The role of passion, love, and continuous self-improvement in building a successful career Video versions of our episodes are on our YouTube channel for you to watch! Subscribe to our channel The Hair Game on YouTube and check out 'The Hair Game Podcast' playlist. Our podcast thrives on the opinions of you, the listener... if you have a moment (and you are an Apple user), please leave us a rating & review on the Apple podcasts app or iTunes! Here's what you do: Scroll down to 'Ratings & Reviews' Click on the empty purple stars (5 is the best)! Click on 'Write a Review' and let us know what you love most! Each rating & review helps us reach more and more of your fellow hair loves, and our goal is to help as many hairdressers as we can find success. Thanks in advance! FOLLOW US @thehairgamepodcast @salonrepublic @loveerictaylor FOLLOW ADAM @ adamcunningham___

September 14, 2026Episode 44842 min

Ep. 448 • Why Your Clients Choose You: Building Trust, Connection & Community w/ Leah Sampson

Blonding and color specialist @leahdoesmyhaircville shares her inspiring journey from military service to becoming a successful independent hairstylist, opening up about the challenges, lessons, and experiences that shaped her career. Leah dives into building authentic client relationships, finding confidence in who you are, and creating a business that reflects your personality and values. She also shares practical insights on social media, content creation, pricing, client engagement, and what it takes to thrive as an independent stylist while navigating changes in the beauty industry. This Week's Topics • Leah's Journey From Military Service to Hairstyling • Transitioning From the Military to a Career Behind the Chair • Starting Her Own Studio and Navigating Early Challenges • Building Authentic Client Relationships Through Trust and Connection • Finding Success as an Independent Hairstylist • The Importance of Authenticity and Being Yourself • Using Social Media to Grow Your Business • Managing an Independent Salon and Adapting to Industry Changes • Learning From Hair Horror Stories and Building Client Trust Video versions of our episodes are on our YouTube channel for you to watch! Subscribe to our channel The Hair Game on YouTube and check out 'The Hair Game Podcast' playlist. Our podcast thrives on the opinions of you, the listener... if you have a moment (and you are an Apple user), please leave us a rating & review on the Apple podcasts app or iTunes! Here's what you do: Scroll down to 'Ratings & Reviews' Click on the empty purple stars (5 is the best)! Click on 'Write a Review' and let us know what you love most! Each rating & review helps us reach more and more of your fellow hair loves, and our goal is to help as many hairdressers as we can find success. Thanks in advance! FOLLOW US @thehairgamepodcast @salonrepublic @loveerictaylor FOLLOW LEAH @leahdoesmyhaircville

September 14, 20264 min

HIGHLIGHTS • Why Your Clients Choose You: Building Trust, Connection & Community w/ Leah Sampson

These are clips highlighting some of the topics discussed in the full episode! Check it out if you want a bite-sized version of the full episode. Blonding and color specialist @leahdoesmyhaircville shares her inspiring journey from military service to becoming a successful independent hairstylist, opening up about the challenges, lessons, and experiences that shaped her career. Leah dives into building authentic client relationships, finding confidence in who you are, and creating a business that reflects your personality and values. She also shares practical insights on social media, content creation, pricing, client engagement, and what it takes to thrive as an independent stylist while navigating changes in the beauty industry. This Week's Topics • Leah's Journey From Military Service to Hairstyling • Transitioning From the Military to a Career Behind the Chair • Starting Her Own Studio and Navigating Early Challenges • Building Authentic Client Relationships Through Trust and Connection • Finding Success as an Independent Hairstylist • The Importance of Authenticity and Being Yourself • Using Social Media to Grow Your Business • Managing an Independent Salon and Adapting to Industry Changes • Learning From Hair Horror Stories and Building Client Trust Video versions of our episodes are on our YouTube channel for you to watch! Subscribe to our channel The Hair Game on YouTube and check out 'The Hair Game Podcast' playlist. Our podcast thrives on the opinions of you, the listener... if you have a moment (and you are an Apple user), please leave us a rating & review on the Apple podcasts app or iTunes! Here's what you do: Scroll down to 'Ratings & Reviews' Click on the empty purple stars (5 is the best)! Click on 'Write a Review' and let us know what you love most! Each rating & review helps us reach more and more of your fellow hair loves, and our goal is to help as many hairdressers as we can find success. Thanks in advance! FOLLOW US @thehairgamepodcast @salonrepublic @loveerictaylor FOLLOW LEAH @leahdoesmyhaircville