How To Cut It in the Hairdressing Industry

Latest Episodes:

EP335: Classic Rerun – Lee Stafford, from Living Room Haircuts to Industry Legend! Aug 13, 2024

Show notes

Today, we’re jumping in the time machine to revisit an epic episode from April 2017 with the legendary Lee Stafford.

In this throwback, we uncover Lee’s transformation from humble beginnings in his mother’s living room to becoming an icon in hairdressing. “I’ve always believed that to be the best, you’ve got to learn from the best,” Lee shares, revealing his passion for mentorship and the art of honing your craft alongside the crème de la crème.

Diving into Lee’s passion for educational, we explored the Lee Stafford Education (LSE), his game-changing initiative to elevate hairdressing training in partnership with colleges. He breaks down his ‘recipe’ approach – a foolproof formula to ensure every student gets a standardised, top-notch education. “It’s all about consistency and clarity,” he asserts, sharing his journey from ideation to flawless execution in partnership with college principals.

Recounting tales with industry icons and his stint on “Celebrity Scissorhands,” Lee’s anecdotes come peppered with wit and wisdom. “You’ve got to have a laugh, but remember the work you put in is what you get out,” he says, reflecting on his grounded personality and the humour that helped shape his colourful career.

As we wrap up, Lee’s ambition shines bright as he talked about the future. He dreams of stretching the LSE network and continuing to revolutionise hairdressing pedagogy. Emphasising “passion, commitment, and relentless pursuit of excellence,” he leaves us armed with motivation and the powerful message that mentorship is the key to spectacular success.

In this classic episode, Lee Stafford doesn’t just share his story; he’s here to ignite a fire in the heart of every aspiring hairdressers. Get ready to be inspired, folks – this is one for the books!

EP334: The Niche World of Competition Hairdressing with Dody Constantinou Aug 05, 2024

Show notes

Are you a hairdresser or barber with a passion for pushing the boundaries of your craft? Have you ever wondered what it takes to not just participate but shine in the competitive world of competition hairdressing? Yes then this is a podcast episode you don’t want to miss.

Join me as I sit down with Dody Constantinou, a formidable force in the competition hairdressing circuit. Dody’s journey isn’t just any story – it’s a legacy of passion, dedication, and remarkable achievements passed down through generations, starting from his grandfather, who was the first to clinch an international medal for Great Britain in 1963. With a family history rich in competitive success, Dody not only carries forward this tradition but also deeply understands the heart and soul of what makes a champion in this highly competitive world.

Dody shares crucial nuggets of wisdom on navigating the competitive competition hairdressing landscape. “Competition hairdressing requires tunnel vision,” he points out, highlighting the unparalleled focus needed to excel. He walks us through the challenges competitors face and meticulous judging criteria.

In this conversation Dody doesn’t shy away from addressing the elephant in the room: the declining popularity of championship competitions in British hairdressing. Our conversation doesn’t stop at the competition floor. Dody opens up about the less glamorous sides, including the financial and logistical hurdles of finding a model, preparing the hair, and the challenge of drawing a crowd to these events. Yet, he remains hopeful, believing in the need for modernisation and a stronger emphasis on entertainment and visual appeal to attract younger talents and audiences alike.

So, whether you’re a seasoned competitor, considering your first foray, or just fascinated by this niche within our industry, this episode promises plenty of inspiration, learning, and a call to action for all of us to play a role in resurrecting and reshaping the future of hairdressing championships. Tune in, get those creative juices flowing, and perhaps, find yourself inspired to join the revolution Dody and many others are championing.

EP333: Bruno Marc Giamattei’s Hairdressing Journey of Inspiration, Mentorship and Leadership Jul 22, 2024

Show notes

Join us for a long-awaited podcast with a true leading figurehead in British hairdressing, the brilliant Bruno Marc Giamattei.

Renowned for his extensive industry accolades, mentoring and leadership role in the family-founded Marc Antoni Group, Bruno is to share invaluable insights rooted in over three decades of industry experience. With a straightforward approach, Bruno says of himself, “I’m a hairdresser’s hairdresser and I’m real and there’s no airs and graces.”

We are to explore with Bruno pivotal topics like the significance of honest communication within the industry, the pervasive impact of social media on business dynamics, and the profound influence of his father’s legacy on the family business. The conversation takes a deeply personal turn as Bruno is to reveal how his brother’s leukaemia diagnosis reshaped his outlook on business and the irreplaceable value of time.

Bruno is big on mentorship and communal growth, so when he says, “The more I share, the stronger I become”, we had to explore more on this!

As we delve deeper into the conversation, Bruno shares more about Marc Antoni’s expansion into China and why it’s important. He also offers a glimpse into Chinese market dynamics by discussing how they differ from those in UK. And he does not shy away from big topics, hairdressing industry challenges such as the dilution of quality training and the need for a multifaceted approach in hairdressing.

Bruno Marc Giamattei’s episode offers a rich tapestry of insights, from embracing challenges to celebrating achievements, all while staying grounded in the ethos of inspiring, mentorship and leadership.

EP332: Janene Hawkins Bush’s Innovative Approach to Salon Ownership and Education Jul 15, 2024

Show notes

Today we’re to be joined by Janene Hawkins Bush. who unravels the blueprint for cultivating thriving salon businesses through team ownership, and seizing every opportunity—without fear.

Leading four award-winning salons along the Suffolk coast, Janene Hawkins Bush is committed to moulding the next generation of stylists and salon leaders. She mentors her team members, helping many to develop the skills and knowledge they need in order to become salon owners themselves.

Janene expresses in her own words, “Unless you grab those opportunities and strike well behind its heart, then I think you can miss out on things.” Her passion is palpable, as is her commitment to mentorship, “All of our team have the opportunity to join the share scheme if they show initiative and the want to build a business.”

Her journey is not just about leadership; it’s about adaptability and the lessons learned from running businesses in diverse landscapes like France and the UK. “I did work for a property development company down in the south of France… and we came back to England,” Janene reflects, sharing the unique management challenges and the stark differences in salon representation in various economic climates.

Janene advocates for transparency and accountability, components she believes are foundational for growth, trust, and respect within a business. With an eye on the future, she emphasises the necessity for industry reinvention, sustainable practices, and the cultivation of community-focused salons to remain relevant and successful.

And make sure to stick around towards the end, because we go beyond the salon walls. Janene shares about MAD Education – an innovative initiative underscores her dedication to propelling the industry forward through affordable training and mentorship. We learn all about this and how you can get involved in providing or receiving hair education for just £99 per year.

Janene’s insights today are your guide to transforming passion into action. Let’s dive in!

EP331: Sharpen Your Skills – Francesca Rivetti’s Blueprint for Hairdressing Mastery Jul 01, 2024

Show notes

Today we’re joined by Francesca Rivetti, an award-winning hairstylist who hails from the UK but has made her mark in America.

Francesca’s journey is inspiring. From her early days immersed in hair design to pioneering roles with Graham Webb International and winning major awards like the NAHA Editorial award, Francesca has shaped a career marked by creativity, innovation, and educational advancement.

In today’s episode titled: Sharpen Your Skills: Francesca Rivetti’s Blueprint for Hairdressing Mastery, Francesca starts by unveiling her personal thoughts on the current state of hairdressing education in the US, critically underscoring the deficit in deep, skill-based training that leads to true mastery. Francesca passionately advocates for a reset in haircutting education, focusing on classic fundamentals as the backbone of confidence and skill. She discusses the three pillars of hair cutting mastery: one length, layering, and graduation, and how mastery in these areas cultivates a confident and capable hairstylist.

Francesca shares, “Confidence breeds more confidence, like a seed that keeps growing and growing,” emphasising the significance of discipline, passion, and the right mindset. She expresses concern over the superficial quick fixes that social media proposes and stands firm on her belief that “Education is an investment, not an expense.”

Our discussion also navigates the unique and immersive experience of the Reset Academy in Italy, showing how Francesca merges creativity, culture, and education to elevate hairstyling into an art form. Francesca’s insights are a treasure trove for anyone in the hairdressing industry, from the aspiring stylist to the seasoned professional looking to rediscover their passion and refine their skills.

Francesca Rivetti is not just a stylist; she’s a visionary in the hairdressing field. Her dedication to propelling hair education shines through every accolade and initiative, making her story and insights a must-listen for anyone looking to grow in the industry.

EP330: We ‘Got On It’ at HAIRCON, the New Day and Night Hair Festival – Solo Episode Jun 28, 2024

Show notes

My absence from the podcasting waves over the last couple of weeks has been due to my bustling experience at the brand new HAIRCON event in Manchester’s O2 Victoria Warehouse. In today’s solo episode, I invite you to join me as I share an off-the-cuff episode, reflecting on the raw energy and my personal insights on taking the HTCI Platform stage to this groundbreaking day and night hair festival.

In a mere three weeks, we faced head-on the task of orchestrating an platform stage inside HAIRCON that came to life with dynamic members showcases, industry discussions, fun competitions, and expert-led mastered sessions—all brimming with relentless energy from our community.

The partnership with the Fellowship for British Hairdressing and The Assembly events brought forth an innovative event experience, that saw HAIRCON breathe new life into the hair industry. The venue’s edgy ambiance fuelled an air of creativity, as stylists from across the UK gathered for 3 days at this brand new day and nigh hair festival. Despite the occasional hiccup, the event was a big hit. I’ll reveal more on all of this with you today.

Beneath the warehouse’s gritty atmosphere, an innovative spirit ignited as stylists from across the breadth of the UK convened for this inaugural event that transformed day into night. Despite a few unforeseen twists, HAIRCON landed with a big impact, and I’m eager to share the details with you.

The moment has come to immerse yourself in the HAIRCON experience—hit play and let’s dive in!

EP329: From Local Hero to Industry Icon: The Power of Local Salon Awards with Kate Jeffery Jun 13, 2024

Show notes

Are you a hairstylist looking to elevate your career and get your salon on the map? Then today’s episode of the How To Cut It podcast is exactly what you need to tune into. Put on your headphones, turn up the volume, and stay locked in as we dive deep into the world of industry awards with a special focus on local recognition and why it matters more than you might think.

We’re joined by none other than Kate Jeffery, the visionary founder of Salon Awards. Kate sheds light on how these awards aren’t just about accolades; they’re a transformational platform for smaller salons struggling to make their mark. “It’s not just about winning; it’s about improving your business practices and gaining the recognition you truly deserve,” she tells us.

This episode isn’t just insightful—it’s packed with the inspiration and information you need to turbocharge your hairdressing or barbering career.

Kate breaks down the concept of the Salon Awards, from the various categories and the entry process at salonawards.co.uk to how these accolades are designed to be accessible to all. “We’re here to celebrate your passion, your story, and your craft,” she emphasizes.

I get to the heart of the ethical side of awards, challenging Kate on criticisms that such events are merely money-making ventures. Her response? “We invest heavily in technology and administration to ensure a fair, transparent, and authentic experience.”

“The big takeaway?” Kate shares powerful stories of past winners whose careers have skyrocketed, thanks to leveraging their awards for marketing and community building.

This week’s episode is a must-listen for every hairstyling professional out there. From the power of local recognition to the nuts and bolts of creating a winning entry, we cover it all. Kate’s commitment to genuine recognition and her dedication to supporting the hairdressing community is truly inspiring.

Don’t miss out on this invaluable conversation—especially with the upcoming deadlines for Salon Awards’ nights in London and Manchester. This could be your year, so stay tuned all the way to the end to find out how to make the most of this opportunity

EP328: Reassessing Your Path – Solo Episode Jun 05, 2024

Show notes

Today, it’s just you and me – an open mic solo session where I dig deep into the enormous impact of taking time to reassess where you are in your life and career.

Since kicking off in 2017, “How to Cut It” has grown into so much more than a podcast; it’s become a community, a platform for education, and a spotlight for industry innovation. As we recently celebrated being named Industry Podcast of the Year at the Hairbrained Awards, I found myself reflecting on just how transformative this journey has been, not only for me but for many of you in our listening community.

Throughout this episode, I’ll share details about the origins of our podcast and the pivotal moments that have defined its evolution. The creation of the How to Cut It platform was a milestone, born from the desire to extend our reach beyond the audio episodes into a comprehensive resource for career development and inspiration.

In a special announcement, I’m thrilled to invite our audience to join the upcoming HAIRCON – the new day and night hair festival coming the O2 Victoria Warehouse, Manchester from the 22nd-24th June. And yes, the How to Cut It ‘Open Platform’ stage will be there! It’s your chance to shine, to show what unique contributions you can make.

Moreover, this episode is a personal reflection on the value of reassessment. Whether you’re a rookie or a seasoned professional, revisiting your goals and realigning your career trajectory can open doors to unexpected opportunities. This dialogue, unscripted and straight from the heart, aims to inspire you to embrace change, seek growth, and cherish those wins!

I invite you to join the reassessment journey with me. Share your stories, connect with our vibrant community on social media, and continue to be a part of this incredible adventure.

Thank you, our cherished listeners, guests, and supporters, for growing with “How to Cut It.” Here’s to moving forward, together.

Hope you enjoy this open mic solo episode raw and uncut—let’s get started!

EP327: Become a Hair Loss Adviser: Transforming Lives with Tiffany Hall May 28, 2024

Show notes

In the latest How To Cut It podcast, we’re exploring hair loss and the transformative role hairdressers can play as Hair Loss Advisors with trichologist Tiffany Hall. With a career that evolved from a hair colourist at Vidal Sassoon to a trichologist, Tiffany has championed the integration of trichology into salon services, significantly impacting client care and confidence.

Tiffany Hall discusses the rising issue of hair loss among younger demographics and how her services, including the innovative Scalp Scope Service, address this. She emphasizes holistic care that goes beyond standard hair treatments to include male grooming and managing menopausal effects on hair health.

Central to our conversation is Tiffany’s Hair Loss 360 online course program, designed to educate hairstylists on diagnosing and treating hair and scalp health issues, turning them into adept Hair Loss Advisors. This knowledge enables stylists to offer personalised, brand neutral advice and early intervention solutions.

Tiffany’s approach is holistic, considering dietary, hormonal, and lifestyle factors. She also highlights advanced treatments like Keravive scalp treatment, PRP, and Exosomes hair loss therapy.

Collaboration with dermatologists and healthcare professionals is key to her success in providing targeted care. Tiffany’s vision extends beyond treating hair; it’s about nurturing client well-being and confidence.

This episode is a clarion call for the hair and beauty industry to integrate hair loss advise into their services, enhancing both client satisfaction and salon business. It serves as an inspiring guide for professionals aiming to broaden their impact and support clients through their hair health journeys.

EP326: How Reviews Transform Salon Businesses with Adam Thomas of salonspy May 20, 2024

Show notes

In today episode we’re joined by Adam Thomas, the innovative founder behind salonspy.

In our conversation we’re to discover the critical role of client reviews in the salon industry and uncover why they are more than just feedback—they are the cornerstone for building trust and driving business growth. According to Qualtrics, 96% of consumers read a review before purchasing – with 86% of those consumers specifically seeking out reviews with responses.

With over 2000 salons currently using salonspy the easy-to-love (and even easier to use) review software, salonspy takes real-time insights from client feedback and provides the insight needed to help grow your business and enhance the customer experience.

Adam is to walks us through how salonspy, a verified review platform, is revolutionising review management by integrating directly with salon software systems. This allows for the automatic collection of genuine reviews, making the process seamless for salon owners.

Adam also delves into salonspy’s journey since 2012, shedding light on the challenges faced and the evolution of their offerings to enhance user experiences with features like review moderation and Google review integration.

If you’re looking to leverage positive reviews to gain a competitive edge, attract more customers, and improve your services based on client feedback, this episode is laden with insights.

By the end of our chat, you will appreciate how vital reviews are in building a reputable online presence and how salonspy is a valuable partner in this journey. Plus, Adam has a listeners—a one-month free trial of salonspy to see firsthand how it can enhance your salon business.

Tune in to learn from Adam Thomas why nurturing client reviews is not just necessary but essential in scaling your salon business and staying ahead in the digital age.

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