Sola Stories

Follow Sola on Social:

@kimberlymarina.hair @tiffaniandcompany_ @coiffurebyamandab @hairbyveero @breajcuts @hausofhndsm @nettyfadesandcuts @hairbygino

Connect with Our Guests:

106. Taking Control of Your Finances with Nina Tulio Apr 16, 2024

In this episode, Nina Tulio joins us to chat about taking control of your finances and getting set up for fiscal success. She shares insights on how much money of your net earnings to set aside, and her top budgeting and financial strategies to ensure you power through this year on solid financial grounds! Press play and get her top tips.

Links and Resources:

Ninatulio.com

Follow Sola on Social:

Connect with Nina:

@ninatulio

105. It's All About the Experience Mindset with Adrienne Velazquez Feb 21, 2024

New Sola Stories Podcast episode! Listen now to embark on an inspiring journey with Adrienne Velazquez — a seasoned entrepreneur and founder of The Seven Figure Boss Summit.

From building a commission salon to managing a thriving three-chair salon suite, Adrienne shares her insights on how to capitalize on the client experience and jumpstart your business with her seven-figure track.

Links and Resources:

sevenfigurebosssummit.org

Follow Sola on Social:

Connect with Adrienne:

@thesevenfigureboss

104. A Look Back at The 2023 Faces of Sola Experience - Part 2 Jan 10, 2024

As we reflect on 2023, the Faces of Sola Experience stands out as one of our most memorable highlights. This podcast episode is brought to you from our archives, so you can listen to and be inspired by our 2023 Faces of Sola, recorded during the experience in March 2023!

Kimberly Loomis, Chloe Calley, Ryan Sanger, and Kayla Orth sit down with salon business coach, Nina Tulio, to share their journeys as independent beauty professionals. They provide insights into their personal goals, the challenges they've faced, and how they overcame these obstacles to become the strong business owners they are today. Listen now!

Links and Resources:

Follow Sola on Social:

Connect with Guests:

@ninatulio

@kimberlyloomis

@hairbychloecooper

@hairlingeriethestudio.la

@hairbykaylaorth

103. A Look Back at The 2023 Faces of Sola Experience - Part 1 Jan 10, 2024

Stacey Heintzman, Daniel Montes De Oca, Deniece Jordan, and Jaime Castaneda sit down with salon business coach, Nina Tulio, to share their journeys as independent beauty professionals. They provide insights into their personal goals, the challenges they've faced, and how they overcame these obstacles to become the strong business owners they are today. Listen now!

Links and Resources:

Follow Sola on Social:

Connect with Guests:

@ninatulio

@gingeryesthetic

@hairby_danielm

@jaimeecutzbarberstudio

@bhblounge

102. Mastering the Price Increase with Michelle Wheatley Dec 13, 2023

This time of year, we are always talking about raising prices. However, with the current state of the industry, the conversation sounds a little different this time around. It's all about finding ways to lower business costs and increase service costs, all while maintaining their current client count.

In this episode, Michelle Wheatley, the Beauty Business Guide, brings her industry expertise to help you better understand your numbers, and when and how to implement a price increase for your business.

Press play and get her top tips!

Links and Resources:

beautybusinessguides.com

Follow Sola on Social:

Connect with Michelle:

@beautybusinessguide

101. Setting Intentions with Jasna Burza Dec 06, 2023

Are you looking to set new intentions for the New Year? Press play to hear from leading personal and professional coach, Jasna Burza. Popular for her book, Healer in Heels, Jasna shares best practices for intention setting for the New Year. She also shares tips on creating a positive salon environment and maintaining balance as a beauty business owner.

Links and Resources:

https://jasnaburza.com

Follow Sola on Social:

Connect with GUEST(S):

@jasna.burza

100. Behind the Scenes with Sola at New York Fashion Week Nov 08, 2023

Ever wonder what goes on behind the scenes at New York Fashion Week? In this episode, we interview four members of our New York Fashion Week team: Kimberly Loomis, Serina Battaglini, Roxanne Muir, and Kayla Orth! They share what it was like working behind the scenes with celebrity stylist Matthew Curtis at the Alice and Olivia showcase. Press play to discover what helped them reach this professional milestone and gain inspiring insights from our incredible team of pros!

Links and Resources:

Sola x NYFW: Get the Looks

Follow Sola on Social:

Connect with Our Guests:

99. The Power of Online Reviews Feb 16, 2022

Love ‘em or hate ‘em, in this day in age, online reviews are a vital part of growing any service business. We know there can be a lot of fear and hesitation when it comes to online reviews. We hear things like, "Well, I don't like to brag about myself," and questions like, "What if someone writes something negative or completely untrue? What if one person's bad day turns other potential clients away?" The reality is, once in a while, it may happen, but the benefits of a strong online presence can be the difference between a thriving business and one that can't seem to keep the doors open. And on those off-chances that you do get a negative review, there are strategies to handle those too!

Press play for 7 reasons you should lean into online reviews plus 3 ways to handle negative ones.

In This Episode

[1:32] - There are ways to ask for reviews in an authentic way.

[2:28] - Online reviews put you in control of monitoring your online presence.

[3:07] - Reviews also give you credibility and help clients find you.

[4:02] - Search engines prioritize highly reviewed businesses.

[5:06] - Think about reviews as free marketing.

[6:01] - Like other social media platforms, you can engage with reviewers.

[7:23] - Share your reviews on social media to entice others to leave one, too.

[7:50] - Negative reviews will still happen for a variety of reasons. How can you remedy this?

[10:02] - Check out the Sola blog for more posts and helpful tutorials about online reviews.

Links and Resources

Yelp Guide For Beauty Professionals

6 Social Media and Marketing Tips From Our Faces of Sola

5 Ways to Increase Your Online Presence

98. Chasing Greatness with Antonio Willis Feb 09, 2022

Our guest on this episode is a barber extraordinaire who is innovative and talented, yet humle and grounded. Joining us from his barbershop, The Coil, in Chicago, Antionio is here to share his journey to salon ownership - and what lead him to become the successful barber he is today. You might know him as @barbergawd on Insagram, or as one of the 2021 Faces of Sola, but we know him as one of the most genuine and inspirational people we’ve crossed paths with.

In this episode, Antonio opens up about his experience moving to the south side of Chicago at 14 years old and how there was a lack of positive mentorship. But despite the challenges he faced, Antonio used his experiences to fuel his passions and purpose.

Through his work behind the chair and a drive to make a difference in the lives of others in the next generation, Antonio has created a community of empowered people who not only look good, but feel good.

Press play on this episode to get the inspiration and motivation you didn’t know you needed.

In This Episode

[2:10] - Antonio has made such an impact on the Sola community and we knew his story needed to be shared.

[3:42] - Growing up, Antonio admired his uncle and aspired to follow in his footsteps.

[6:26] - By spending time with clients every couple of weeks, Antonio has made connections with young people in his community as a mentor.

[8:00] - The experience he provides in the chair gives his clients confidence.

[9:40] - Antonio offers a subscription based VIP list that locks in appointments.

[11:20] - Because he sees 14 to 18 people a day, Antonio delegates tasks to others in his network to help build his product line and app.

[13:17] - Antonio felt the need to branch into his own business with Sola so he could do things his own way and keep growing.

[14:50] - His dreams are to provide stability for his children and give them the opportunities to do the things they want to do.

[16:40] - Those in the Sola community are passionate about making time to inspire future individuals in the industry.

[18:00] - During the early days of the pandemic, Antonio set up a tarp covered studio in a hotel.

[21:53] - Antonio explains why his studio is called The Coil.

[24:00] - The Coil has also been branched out to include products for women and has a store front.

[25:51] - Taking photos of his work doesn’t only help promote his brand, but it makes clients feel good, too. Antonio shares his method in self promotion.

[28:31] - To his clients and his community, Antonio is more than a barber.

[30:20] - Comparison is the thief of joy. How does Antonio thrive in a community with a lot of barbers?

[33:18] - Antonio has a strong sense of self and confidence but continues to be very humble.

[36:30] - It is Black History Month and Antonio shares what it means to him to be a black-owned business in his community.

[39:00] - Antonio’s advice for young people is to talk to the people who inspire you and find out how to do the things you love.

Links and Resources

Sola Salons Instagram Page

Sola Salons – Website

The Coil Website

Barbergawd on Facebook

@barbergawd on Instagram

97. Setting Salon Prices with Joey Figueiredo Feb 02, 2022

As you think about the ways you can work smarter in your salon this year, it is natural to think about setting boundaries and creating salon policies. By creating and implemeting salon policies, you are putting rules in place to help define your boundaries with yourself and with your clients. Salon policies will help you create a safe, organized and fair environment in your salon. Policies also help you set expectations with your clients which will essentially help protect you and your business.

Today’s guest comes to us from Prarie Village, Kansas where he runs his business in a double sized Sola studio. Joey Figueiredo is one of our Faces of Sola, an educator, content creator, photographer, and when it comes to retail, Joey could sell ice to an eskimo. Recently, Joey was featured by Modern Salon in an article he wrote about salon policies, so we couldn’t wait to bring him on to the podcast to dive deeper into this hot topic with us.

In This Episode

[2:04] - Joey started with Sola in 2013 and works hard to maintain healthy boundaries.

[3:56] - Policies hold both clients and salon owners accountable.

[5:18] - Joey admits that in the beginning, he let his clients walk all over him until he realized how much he was losing without policies.

[7:30] - There are certain things that you need to understand to value the monetary worth of your time.

[8:55] - Start with what you are comfortable with. Copy policies from another salons and tweak as you go.

[10:34] - Your booking methods could be a policy and be firm in the way you want to run your business and schedule.

[12:03] - Joey describes his cancellation policy and the challenges that Covid poses on it.

[13:18] - Educate your clients on your policies and why they are important.

[18:24] - Covid policies can be very tricky because of the polarizing opinions surrounding it.

[20:01] - Joey meets his clients where they are comfortable.

[23:55] - How you accept payment is something you also need to be clear about.

[26:41] - Joey has very clear new client policies as well.

[28:34] - Your cancellation policy during the holiday season is extremely important.

[31:18] - Joey and Jennie discuss tardiness and the impact it can have on your day.

[33:18] - Regarding communicating your policies, Joey recommends having it in writing.

[35:01] - Joey addresses losing clients.

[38:12] - You should be open about policies. Talking about them should not be a behind-the-scenes talk.

[40:15] - The effects of Covid were actually positive for Joey in changing his work mindset.

[43:21] - More and more people are becoming more flexible.

Links and Resources

How to Set Healthy Client Boundaries and Sane Salon Policies by Joey Figueiredo on Modern Salon

@stylistjoey

96. Streamline Your Salon Business Jan 27, 2022

As an independent salon owner, you wear many hats, and sometimes it may feel challenging to juggle all of your day-to-day tasks, stay organized and maintain a healthy work-life balance. But we've got you covered... because, with Sola, you can have it all. Here are 4 ways you can streamline your business and stay organized in 2022.

In This Episode

[1:01] - Manage your business with SolaGenius.

[2:09] - What can you do with SolaGenius in just a few clicks?

[3:05] - Stock your back bar and retail shelves with BeautyHive.

[4:26] - Create and schedule social media content using tools like Canva.

[5:56] - Keep your social media branded with your colors and fonts interspersed with real photos of your craft.

[7:17] - Pre-planning and post scheduling give you more time and freedom.

[8:06] - Sola Sessions are back in person! Join us in Denver in May!

Links and Resources

95. Start Your Year Off Right Jan 19, 2022

Are you ready to make 2022 your best year yet? Our guests on this episode are here to help you create a solid action plan to keep your business healthy and growing.

In this episode, we are joined by Faces of Sola Drew Inge and Genia Church along with industry experts Michael Cole and Nina Tulio to talk all things budgeting, raising prices, growing your clientele, goal-setting and goal getting. Drew and Genia demonstrate how to connect with others to build each other up while Michael and Nina provide the details on what to look for in your 2022 business and financial plans.

Press play on this episode to start celebrating your wins, both big and small, and find out how to integrate these best practices to make this your best year yet!

In This Episode

[0:36] - All the guests are introduced. Learn about Drew, Genia, Michael, and Nina.

[3:50] - When planning for the future, it is important to reflect on the previous year. Genia shares what she was most proud of from 2021.

[6:18] - For Drew, 2021 was very transformative.

[7:48] - Start your reflection with celebrating your wins. Be still for a moment and see how far you’ve come.

[9:20] - Part of growing is trying new things. Some of these things won’t work so take them out of your plan and move forward.

[10:01] - Michael lists five important questions he asks himself when reflecting on the past and planning for a new year.

[12:18] - Although there have been countless challenges, sometimes crisis creates opportunity. Drew and Genia describe the positive outcomes they’ve experienced.

[15:02] - How can independent salon owners benefit from changes?

[16:00] - No matter how proficient we were at using digital tools prior to COVID, we are all far better now.

[17:50] - Sola is at the forefront of innovation in hair color and styles as a result of creative ideas to survive COVID.

[19:21] - COVID heightened business awareness for independent salon owners. With that, comes boundaries.

[20:29] - Keep your goals simple. Growth in your business does not have to be complicated.

[21:50] - Make the commitment to yourself to maintain consistency while implementing new things.

[23:40] - Genia addresses burnout and explains how she integrates doing more of what she loves into her business goals.

[26:02] - Drew’s main goal is to become more financially healthy and explains how he wants to better integrate technology to do so.

[28:08] - What is the millionaire mindset?

[31:19] - Part time is the new full time.

[32:14] - Building a brand strategy and digital strategy is a focus this year for Genia.

[33:44] - Nina shares a lot of information for budgeting in the new year.

[35:44] - A healthy business is a profitable business.

[37:28] - Michael shares what salon owners should be looking at financially in the new year.

[40:36] - Consultations with clients can be an opportunity to make sure you are making the profits you need and giving the client precisely what they need.

[42:00] - For Genia, the KPI that makes a difference for her is her Daily Ticket Average. What other KPIs are helpful to look at consistently?

[46:01] - Keep your books open to new clients and if you can’t, put clients on a wait list rather than turning anyone away.

[47:40] - If you are booked solid back to back, Michael suggests increasing your prices as the demands for your services are high.

[50:26] - Every decision you make has to be in alignment with your business and brand.

[53:17] - Even if you don’t charge for a virtual consultation, the tickets wind up being more profitable.

[56:23] - May 2022 Sola Sessions in Denver, Colorado announcement!

Links and Resources

Michael Cole Millionaire Stylist on Instagram

Nina Tulio on Instagram

94. Setting Salon Owners Up For Success in the New Year Jan 12, 2022

A new year is a perfect opportunity to get organized. After the holidays, things may feel a bit chaotic. Be patient with yourself as you get things back in order after the holiday rush. From self-care to schedule mastery, we've got the steps every independent salon owner should take to self yourself up for success in 2022.

In This Episode

[1:01] - Self-care is crucial. Fill up your own cup before you help fill others’.

[2:37] - Spruce up the salon! The new year is a great time to clean things out that are not in alignment.

[3:21] - Start or restart a healthy routine. During the holidays, we veer away from our usual routine and the transition back can be challenging.

[5:01] - Consider mindfulness, movement, and nourishment for your morning routine to help set you up for success.

[5:36] - Time blocking and task batching are strategies that help you manage your time and can majorly increase productivity.

[6:30] - This is the time of year where hydration is tougher. Be mindful of hydration as part of your routine.

[7:31] - This is the year of the Sola boss! With the right routines and self care routines, you can set yourself up for success

Links and Resources

93. Setting Goals and Intentions for the New Year Jan 05, 2022

As we are still celebrating the magic of the New Year, we wanted to bring two of the most inspiring people in the Sola family to talk about setting intentions and goals for 2022. Kim Bennett and Steven Wren have offered hope and relentless positivity to our community when we needed it most… and we couldn’t think of anyone more fitting to help us ring in the New Year on The Sola Stories Podcast than these two!

Setting intentions is all about putting your energy into what you want. When you can find or create some clarity around what you want, you invite your heart and your mind to focus and support you in getting closer to what you truly desire – in life or in your business. This time of year is a chance to start fresh, dream just a little bit bigger, and imagine with intention.

Press play on this episode to join the conversation with Kim and Steve, and discover how to take achievable action steps to reach your goals and fulfill your 2022 intentions!

In This Episode

[2:54] - Kim shares how 2021 impacted her and how wearing the salon owner hat changed her maturity.

[4:29] - It is important to embrace change and recognize things as a new normal.

[5:16] - For Steve, 2021 made him realize how important the client/barber relationship really is and the need to create a safe space for people.

[7:05] - You can set intentions, goals, and resolutions at any point in the year. Making them small is key to success.

[8:01] - Kim and Steve share their intentions for 2021 and how they differed from 2020.

[11:49] - Sometimes we set a goal, but then don’t think about the small actions that will help you achieve them. How can you make the actionable steps a habit?

[13:09] - Kim describes new opportunities that came her way in 2021 that she is excited to develop further in the new year.

[16:00] - Steve also had new opportunities in 2021 and explains how his desire to impact his community and working with Sola helped him cast a larger net.

[19:01] - The ability to present virtually has made the world smaller. This has created new opportunities, education, and relationships more accessible.

[20:07] - When setting up goals and intentions for a new year, Steve breaks his year up into personal and business and into quarters.

[21:40] - Kim shares what she is looking forward to the most in 2022.

[23:37] - For 2022, Kim isn’t concerned about change anymore.

[24:58] - Don’t be afraid to fail. The fear of failure holds you back from trying new things.

[27:04] - Kim explains how she sets business goals and her previous fear of raising prices.

[30:14] - The webinar that Kim hosted is available through the Sola Pro app.

[33:40] - Steve describes his goals for 2022 through the lens of a business owner.

[36:26] - It is recommended to incorporate times of rest into your goals.

[39:01] - A goal without a plan is just a wish. You have to have an action plan.

[42:30] - Steve separates his goals into categories and has action steps for every single day to help reach them.

[44:23] - Steve’s word for 2022 is evolution and Kim’s is influence.

[46:46] - Take the time to reflect on the past year before you look at your goals for the future in depth.

Links and Resources

Mr. Wren Cuts on Facebook

Kimi_Kisses on Instagram

Kimi_Kisses on TikTok

MrWrenCuts on Instagram

92. Make 2022 the Year of YOU with Dawn Bradley Dec 28, 2021

As 2021 comes to an end, it’s time to take a deep breath and recharge. But with the added pressure of setting goals for the new year, taking time to rest after the holiday rush is often easier said than done. Our guest, Dawn Bradley, is here to help remind us that we can’t take care of others before taking care of ourselves first.

Dawn is a hairstylist, educator, business coach and host of The Anxious Creative Podcast where she regularly has conversations about living with anxiety and the dreaded imposter syndrome. Dawn joins us today to talk about recovering from the holiday craze in a time where we’re still adjusting to a constantly changing new normal. She shares best practices for setting and keeping solid boundaries to avoid career burnout — post-holiday and year-round. Listen now to find out how you can practice active rest, hit the reset button and make 2022 the year of you!In This Episode

[1:56] - Dawn is the host of The Anxious Creative Podcast and today’s topic is a needed conversation especially this time of year.

[3:42] - This year it is going to be easy to overextend yourself and tempting to take on more.

[5:20] - There is more pressure surrounding this year’s holiday season than in the past.

[6:17] - Dawn describes the shame spiral and how this can happen when there’s added pressure right now.

[9:11] - Dawn explains the difference between doing nothing and active rest.

[12:01] - Find the thing that makes you forget you have a phone.

[14:15] - What works for one person won’t always work for others. Remember that if you feel exhausted after doing something, it isn’t rest.

[16:07] - Some people recharge by being alone and during the holidays this is challenging. Dawn explains that it is important to take care of yourself first.

[20:40] - Book yourself an appointment at the spa. You spend your year making others feel good and you deserve it, too.

[22:20] - Your worth and value are so much more than what you can do for other people.

[23:53] - Creating hard boundaries and sticking to a vacation schedule can make a huge difference in your self care and recharging.

[25:04] - No one will respect your boundaries if you don’t respect them yourself.

[27:02] - The starting signs of burnout are bitterness and feeling annoyed with your clients and internal negativity towards something you used to love.

[29:41] - Visualization is a simple tool you can use to keep yourself from feeling drained from certain clients.

[32:15] - Life and business are interconnected.

[34:17] - Dawn writes down and speaks aloud mantras that have been impactful.

[35:18] - Dawn is hosting a free five day business building bootcamp. It is all from a perspective of growing your business while taking care of yourself.

Links and Resources

The Anxious Creative Podcast

Dawn Bradley’s Website

Dawn on YouTube

Build Your Business Bootcamp

91. Embracing Your Authentic Self with Alyssa Wiener Dec 22, 2021

You may recognize 2021 Face of Sola Alyssa Wiener from her vibrant creations on Instagram, or from being published in Modern Salon, Behind the Chair, and Beauty Launchpad. But we know Alyssa as a kind, genuine person who is able to make her clients look on the outside the way they feel on the inside.

Alyssa joins us on this Sola Stories episode to share her story about what intrigued her to join the beauty industry, why she was drawn to vibrant hair colorations, and what it was like opening her Sola salon studio during the height of the pandemic. Find out how in her salon, Lucky 13, she can create a safe space where everyone feels welcome, heard, and seen. With Alyssa’s authenticity and empathy, her clients can feel confident embracing their authentic selves.

In This Episode

[0:55] - In 8th grade, Alyssa colored her hair black and was sent to a school therapist. Here’s how that experience shaped her path for the future.

[2:55] - Alyssa explains how a visit with her hairstylist opened her eyes to the world of Cosmetology and nothing else made sense to her afterward.

[4:34] - Was Alyssa’s salon built around a sense of retribution for her childhood experiences?

[5:54] - Alyssa tells us about her journey to becoming a Sola salon owner during the height of a pandemic.

[8:00] - Alyssa reveals where she conjured up her confidence despite all the fear, paralyzation, and uncertainty that the pandemic brought.

[10:40] - “Collaboration over competition” is a rare mindset for the beauty industry. We learn how Alyssa came to embrace that ideology.

[12:10] - Angela gives us a visualization of how Alyssa dressed for the interview and drives home the point that we are our own brand.

[13:51] - How networking and authenticity helped Alyssa gain a massive following on social media.

[16:20] - While Alyssa believes the followers on social media are cool, deep down she doesn’t define herself by her social media following.

[18:29] - Alyssa is happy to be at a place where she can be more selective of the clients that join her tribe.

[20:25] - What would Alyssa say to someone who is on the fence about going independent or joining Sola?

Links and Resources

Alyssa Wiener on Facebook - @lucky13ct

Alyssa Wiener on Instagram - @alyssawiener

Alyssa’s Website

90. Choosing Joy During the Holidays with Drew Inge Dec 15, 2021

In this episode, Face of Sola Drew Inge joins us to spread the holiday spirit. You might know him as Do My Hair Drew on Instagram and TikTok where you can find some of the most hilarious and entertaining hairdresser themed TikToks and Reels, but Drew is so much more than a rock star educator or social media influencer. Drew has become a source of inspiration for thousands in the beauty industry. He continues to show up for everyone in his life: from his clients and his Sola neighbors, to his own friends and family. He hosts donation drives, Secret Santa gift exchanges for his Sola location, and even just leaves nice little snacks in the breakroom just to make someone’s day. We couldn’t think of anyone more fitting to join us on the Sola Stories Podcast to spread a little cheer and joy than Drew!

In this episode, Drew shares the meaning of the holidays for him and why he chooses to have and share so much joy. The reality is that the holidays can be a difficult time for some people, and a little love, light and laughter can go a long way.

In This Episode

[2:01] - It is so important to Drew to show up for everyone and completed this interview from his car!

[3:25] - The holidays in general are special to Drew and he decked everything out in his salon in November. He shares a personal story that changed his perspective.

[5:43] - You never know what someone is going through and many people suffer in silence during the holidays.

[6:24] - The way we show up is a decision. Where does Drew find the strength to show up consistently?

[8:05] - Drew shares some of the things he does in his salon to boost the holiday spirit.

[9:48] - Drew keeps a tight schedule and explains how he prioritizes.

[11:47] - In order to show up for others, you have to prioritize self care.

[13:24] - Ways to bring cheer to the salon do not have to be complicated. Drew shares some easy ideas to get you started off small.

[15:41] - Drew shares a tip on keeping books full without having last minute cancellations as well as some things he does to keep the holiday spirit alive with his clients.

[17:08] - Knowing how he manages the holidays, Drew plans ahead so his investments don’t hit the bottom line.

[18:03] - Drew loves using music and lights for the holiday experience.

[19:03] - Think about what someone else is going through behind closed doors and help spread joy through your awareness and understanding.

Links and Resources

Drew Inge on Instagram - @domyhairdrew

Drew Inge on TikTok - @domyhairdrew

Drew’s Website

89. 6 Ways to Sell More Holiday Salon Retail Dec 08, 2021

Retail is a huge opportunity for you to increase your bottom line without spending more hours behind the chair. So even if you've never dabbled in the retail game before, there is no better time to hop on the train than when sales are at an all-time high. Take advantage of the holiday splurge-fest and give yourself the end-of-year business boost you deserve with these holiday retailing tips:

In This Episode

[1:28] - Create festive retail-focused displays. It’s the time of year to package products.

[2:07] - Save time and earn rewards and deals by ordering on Beauty Hive.

[2:26] - Decorate with retail and turn your salon into a festive oasis.

[3:20] - Create ready-to-open gift sets and baskets. Save your clients time and hassle.

[5:00] - Make sure your deals don’t hurt your bottom line. Offer specials and bundles but don’t lose money.

[5:48] - Offer product samples as gifts.

[6:34] - Use social media posts and text blasts to market your holiday deals.

[7:21] - Clients will begin to associate your salon not only as their favorite place for their self care, but also as a way to give to others.

Links and Resources

88. Sleigh the Holidays with SolaGenius Dec 01, 2021

The holiday season is in full swing, which means back-to-back appointments, text and email marketing, gift card promotions, and one final retail push. With so much going on, things can feel hectic... but you don’t have to do it all alone - SolaGenius, the all-in-one salon management app, is here to help you during the busiest time of the year.

In this episode, we are joined by 2021 Faces of Sola Drew Inge, Ashlie Garner and Kim Pags, as well as Dani Ostrove, Account Manager with our partners at GlossGenius. They discuss how SolaGenius has changed their businesses for the better, especially during the holidays. Tune in to find out how SolaGenius can set and protect your boundaries, and about all the customizable content, including: social media templates, custom booking links, and even reports and metrics specific to your business.

Whether you are already an avid SolaGenius user or are considering making the switch, this episode is a must-listen. Find out how our professionals are using the app in creative and profitable ways and how you, too, can use this digital assistant to sleigh the holidays!

In This Episode

[1:11] - Our guests, Kim, Drew and Ashlie, introduce themselves and share their favorite features of SolaGenius.

[3:41] - Your time and policies are protected with SolaGenius.

[5:16] - Kim shares why she loves the appointment approval feature.

[7:30] - Another huge time saver is sharing your customizable booking link on your social media to allow clients to book straight from Instagram.

[9:08] - There’s a step-by-step guide on the Sola blog that will show you how to add your links to different types of sites.

[10:01] - Your own forms and waivers can be added into SolaGenius.

[11:31] - The gift card feature in SolaGenius is a great tool to slay the holidays.

[13:01] - Promotional gift cards help boost sales and give existing clients an incentive to purchase them.

[14:57] - Text marketing is helpful to promote gift card purchasing straight through an online link.

[16:41] - You can use each feature of SolaGenius in your own way that meets the needs of your unique business.

[17:41] - Learn how to set up a text blast campaign with customizable templates.

[19:30] - You can also set up criteria to target specific clients for different promotions or services.

[21:17] - The text campaign feature will also track how many people you’ve reached and how much money it has brought in.

[23:06] - Text messages are more successful in being read and acted upon rather than emails.

[24:36] - Through trial and error, Drew has decided on how often to text or email clients.

[27:15] - SolaGenius also has preloaded social media templates that can be customized for your brand.

[30:01] - The templates are great when time is limited to create something from scratch.

[31:30] - Drew, Ashlie and Kim share their strategies and what they focus on during the holidays.

[35:01] - It is very easy to add a discount and add in retail products at checkout through SolaGenius.

[37:09] - There are several reports and analytics to look through to help with tracking data.

[38:40] - Drew, Ashlie and Kim share their most important metrics and why they focus on tracking them.

[41:03] - The reports are easy to customize and filter which takes a lot of guesswork out of the numbers and metrics.

[42:07] - Dani shares the SolaGenius Holiday promo offer

Links and Resources

Redeem SolaGenius Holiday Offer

87. Quick Tips to Boost End-of-Year Revenue Nov 24, 2021

With the end of the year quickly approaching, we wanted to help you think of creative ways to end your year #SolaStrong. Even if things seem to get more and more hectic each day as the holidays approach, there are simple ways to increase your revenue in these last few weeks of 2021 and even propel you into the new year!

Sales trends and data are showing that people are making up for the lack of “normal” holiday celebrations in 2020 in big ways and that could mean an opportunity for you to help your clients while bringing in more revenue for yourself as well. It’s the little things that keep people coming back, spending more and helping to increase your overall bottom line. Tune in to this Quick Tip to learn ways to boost your end-of-year revenue and end this year with a bang.

In This Episode

[1:03] - This is the time of year to make a big portion of your revenue.

[2:30] - Your revenue is the result, not the reason.

[4:00] - The first tip is to make sure you are communicating to your clients that you have openings and get them coming back in.

[4:40] - Gift cards are an excellent way to boost your revenue. There are a lot of gift card promotions you could offer as well.

[6:59] - Referrals are great, but what if your client gets someone a giftcard to see you?

[8:06] - Added retail options are a good idea during this time of year as well to give people the opportunity to shop for gifts in your salon.

[10:29] - The way you decorate and arrange products can make a huge difference on sales.

[12:29] - You can also offer incentives for purchasing gift baskets.

[14:28] - Jennie shares a charity raffle basket idea that has been very successful.

[15:55] - How can you use the holiday season to pre-book for 2022?

[17:20] - Think about upselling to have your clients show themselves a little more love.

Links and Resources

86. Seasonal Self Care Nov 18, 2021

This time of year, it is easy to get so wrapped up in the holiday spirit that we completely forget about ourselves. It’s important to remember that as a Solapreneur, you need to make sure to fill up your cup first before pouring into others’ cups (and making them feel oh so good!).

As a beauty professional, you are catering to others’ happiness all day, and with the holidays on top of your normal routine, your very full plate can overflow.

Best way to prevent burnout and overwhelm? Deep self-care. Take some time for yourself. Nourish yourself - body, mind and spirit - so that you can truly take on the world from a grounded and resourced place.

We want to offer ways to turn the holiday spirit inward and love yourself up before the season’s frenzy takes hold. These self-care practices will help you feel supercharged from Thanksgiving all the way through the New Year so that you can better serve clients, connect with friends and family, and maintain balance during the busiest time of the year.

In This Episode

[1:50] - Find a way to take some time for rest and relaxation.

[2:52] - Schedule “Me Time.” This is a scheduled commitment to spend time for yourself.

[3:49] - You can schedule time for yourself and clients with the Sola Genius app.

[4:18] - Picking up a journaling practice is a great way to connect with yourself and stay mindful.

[5:17] - Here are some ideas of things you can write about when you feel stuck.

[6:01] - Stay hydrated. We forget this during the colder winter months.

[7:15] - Meal prep to keep things healthy when time gets away from you.

[8:47] - Be sure to have enough Vitamin D during the darker winter months.

[10:01] - Take yourself to the spa. Your books are filled with making others look and feel their best. You should take that time for yourself, too!

[11:25] - Remember that you are not alone. Self care does not have to be isolating.

[12:28] - Give yourself kudos for showing up and being ready for the holiday rush.

Links and Resources

85. Trust the Process with Serina Battaglini Nov 12, 2021

On this episode of the Sola Stories Podcast, we are joined by Face of Sola Serina Battaglini! Serina’s journey is both unique and relatable and she’s here - all the way from Ontario, Canada - to share it all with us. From a young age, she knew what she wanted to do but over time she discovered that what was holding her back was her inability to trust the process. Once she determined that she was the one standing in her own way, she took that leap of faith, and joined us in what she describes as the place she’s meant to be.

Listen now to hear more about Serina’s journey and her advice on trusting the process, whatever that may look like. No matter what step you are at in your salon ownership journey - even if you have yet to take the first step - Sola is there for you and Serina’s story is proof that you can find where you are meant to shine.

In This Episode

[1:02] - Welcome to the show, Serina! Serina shares the beginnings of her journey as a stylist.

[3:50] - Serina is driven by education and learning as much as she can.

[5:00] - In Canada, the salon landscape is a lot different than in the US. Serina explains why she made the decision to go with Sola Salon Studios.

[7:38] - After spending 4 years in a salon, Serina realized she had reached the amount of growth she was supposed to make there and needed to move on.

[9:54] - The second Serina went into the Sola studio and met the owner, she knew it was where she was meant to be.

[11:37] - The amount of support or lack thereof has a huge impact on your direction.

[13:50] - Everything about shifting to Sola has been positive for Serina and her clients.

[15:01] - Even if you have a low number of clients or are just getting started as a young stylist, Sola can be a right fit for the growth of your business.

[16:20] - Take the leap of faith and trust the process. It is scary to make a change.

[18:12] - Because of the rarity of salon studios in Canada, Serina shares client reactions.

[20:25] - You just have to go in and see to understand the special experience.

[22:30] - Serina heard what she needed to hear and something she kept in mind throughout her journey.

[23:48] - Learn to trust the process.

Links and Resources

Serina’s Styles on Instagram

84. Sleigh the Holidays with These Sola Resources Nov 02, 2021

The holiday season is officially upon us... are you ready? Take a deep breath because you don't have to do it all on your own. At Sola, we have your back when you need it most - whether it’s during a global pandemic or when you could use some extra support during the busiest time of the year. Tune in to hear the Sola resources and support available at your fingertips to help you sleigh this holiday season.

In This Episode

[1:10] - The Sola Pro App provides resources and support on demand.

[1:42] - The Sola Blog has everything you need to rock the holidays.

[2:14] - Your own Sola Salons website can always be updated.

[2:50] - Sola Genius is a life saving management app.

[4:07] - Book Now is an online booking service provided by Sola.

[4:50] - Beauty Hive will help you stock your shelves quickly and accurately.

[5:28] - Sola has taken virtual education to a whole new level.

[6:38] - The Sola Stories podcast is full of education and inspiration. Leave a review!

Links and Resources

83. Staying Educated and Energized Behind the Chair with Tish Clark Oct 26, 2021

Our guest on this Sola Stories episode is the one and only Tish Clark. Tish is one of 2021 Faces of Sola, the owner of Phormula 708 Studios and has been in the beauty industry for 15 years. Believe it or not, Tish started her education and career as a chef, but over the years discovered that she was meant for more than being behind-the-scenes. Through continued education and a hunger for standing out as her true authentic self, Tish found her home and a sense of belonging with Sola and has never looked back.

Listen to hear all about Tish’s inspiring story and feel her joy and contagious energy. Starting your own business and becoming an independent salon owner can be scary, but Tish chose to lean into courage. She had faith and took the first step, and now her dream of freedom, education and independent salon ownership have come true.

In This Episode

[1:05] - Tish shares her background and how she entered into the beauty industry.

[3:55] - She realized she wasn’t meant for being behind-the-scenes.

[5:03] - Tish knows her calling is to make sure people are taken care of.

[7:00] - Growing up, Tish wanted to stand out and be in charge. She had a strong sense of self.

[9:34] - Working in various salons, Tish stood out as she does, but the salons didn’t see how she fit them. That was a driving force for Tish to go independent with Sola.

[12:03] - It is okay to be excited and scared at the same time. Decide which one to lean into.

[14:44] - From the first time Tish discovered Sola, she felt the courage of the tribe stepping out on their own.

[16:56] - Tish attributes her motivation and lack of burnout to constant education and trying new things.

[19:34] - Tish is an educator for Matrix. She shares why she was drawn to this brand.

[22:10] - Think, dream, dare is a slogan for Matrix and Tish lives it.

[23:41] - If you are thinking about it, you already want it. Get started with Sola.

Links and Resources

Tish Clark Phormula 708 on Instagram

Phormula 708 Website

Phormula 708 Studio Facebook

82. Holiday Marketing Tips for Beauty Professionals Oct 19, 2021

As Halloween quickly approaches, the rest of the holiday season is just around the corner. We wanted to offer you some holiday marketing tips that will help you maximize the cheer and minimize the stress. These tips may also help you to bridge the gap on any year-end financial goals. Don’t let the pumpkin spice lull you into winter hibernation - let’s make these last three months your most profitable (and fun) yet.

In This Episode

[0:59] - Through major challenges, comes major triumphs.

[2:08] - Plan ahead. The holidays tend to sneak up on us and they are busy. Avoid the panic.

[3:09] - Set end of year goals. Be realistic and reassess your goals as this was a crazy year.

[4:43] - Plan holiday promotions and include all the right information for success.

[6:10] - Holiday flash sales are great for “out with the old and in with the new.”

[7:05] - Stock the walls. Prepare for that increased salon traffic.

[8:25] - Decor can turn up the vibe and direct clients to the holiday product displays.

[9:22] - You do not have to do everything. Honor the holidays that you want to celebrate.

[9:57] - Here are some ideas for easy vibe-setting for each upcoming holiday.

[11:23] - Give clients the opportunities to buy gift cards for their loved ones.

[13:20] - Whatever you decide to do or not to do, honor yourself and practice self care.

Links and Resources

81. Do It Scared with Ashlie Garner Oct 13, 2021

This episode is all about how one of our 2021 Faces of Sola went from self-doubt to success, and doubling her income seemingly overnight. Ashlie Garner from Ashlie Ann Hair is a self-proclaimed “education junkie” and is a true testament to the freedom and opportunities Sola has to offer. Ashlie not only runs her own business, but also offers education courses with even more in the works.

In today’s episode, Ashlie shares her inspiring and relatable journey. She tells her story and how once she believed in herself, she realized that she is worthy of her success. As someone so passionate about education, Ashlie has the drive to help others create their own success through Sola, and is on a mission to guide them on the path to loving and believing in themselves. And even if you don’t feel 100% ready to face whatever obstacle is in front of you, Ashlie encourages listeners to just do it - even if you have to do it scared.

In This Episode

[1:01] - Ashlie shares her journey and drive to get into the industry.

[2:09] - In an attempt to fit in, Ashlie changed her appearance. But she realizes now that the beauty industry can help you love yourself.

[3:04] - Ashlie’s salon is plus size and wheelchair accessible.

[4:10] - Everybody deserves the opportunity to feel and know that they are beautiful.

[5:12] - She had started for 4 years in a traditional salon but now wishes she had gone the route of a Sola Studio from the start.

[7:01] - Ashlie considers herself an “education junkie.”

[8:02] - In February 2021, Ashlie’s Instagram blew up with a need for education. She launched a full course called Employee to Empire in March.

[9:29] - Ashlie is already inspiring and educating others as one of the Faces of Sola.

[10:19] - Through re-evaluating everything and being her own boss, Ashlie doubled her income.

[13:21] - Ashlie is creating a course around self-work, self-worth, and personal growth.

[14:43] - If you are scared to do something, it is probably because you are on the verge of something great.

[15:53] - Ashlie works with her best friend and went into Sola together.

[17:35] - Fake it till you make it. Affirmations start when you don’t believe them but eventually, you will begin to believe in yourself.

[19:16] - Get out of your own way and just do it.

Links and Resources

Ashlie on Instagram

80. The Future is Sola Oct 05, 2021

On this episode of Sola Stories, we are joined by four new Faces of Sola - Ashlie Inman, Tish Clark, Serina Battaglini and Alyssa Weiner. These ladies all have unique experiences with Sola, but all share one vision of the future: their future with Sola. From feeling the freedom, confidence, and support of being a Sola entrepreneur, to the hopeful and positive impact of diversity and inclusivity for their clients, Ashlie, Tish, Serena, and Alyssa share their excitement for the future.

The last 18 months have been filled with challenges, fear, and uncertainty. Listen now to discover how these ladies made it through the pandemic, how they were able to shift and grow as salon owners. Find out what Sola means to them and how their future is looking brighter everyday.

In This Episode

[1:21] - Alissa and Tish share what excites them most about her future with Sola.

[2:22] - Serena has gained a lot of confidence since starting with Sola. She knows she can accomplish more and has no limits on her dreams.

[3:09] - With Sola, Ashley knows she wants to dive into education and knows she can with Sola.

[4:14] - All four ladies share when and why they started with Sola.

[5:05] - During lockdowns in the Covid-19 pandemic, Sola was extremely supportive.

[6:47] - Tish has been with Sola for five years and shares her journey and confidence.

[8:30] - Alissa describes her fight or flight mode and her draw to Sola.

[11:30] - The industry has experienced huge shifts, especially in mindset. Tish expresses her vision for the future of Sola.

[12:20] - Serena thinks the future will hold lower maintenance and natural looks.

[14:00] - Sola encourages everyone to love themselves and this includes clients.

[15:35] - Being diverse and size inclusive is important and impactful.

[17:00] - Because of being one-on-one, clients feel physically safe and love the connection with their stylist.

[18:30] - With Sola Suites, you’re able to make these important connections and share these special moments with their clients.

[20:07] - The future of Sola is freedom to be who you are and to deliver an experience that is catered to you and your clientele.

[21:14] - Serena being in Canada, she shares how uncommon it is where she is located to

Links and Resources

Alyssa Wiener on Instagram

Tish Phormula 708 Studio on Instagram

Serena’s Style on Instagram

Ashlie Ann Hair on Instagram

79. Pay Your Rent in Retail Sep 29, 2021

Today’s episode is a panel discussion on all things retail. The panelists today are all Sola business owners doing the job everyday. What are their tips, tricks, and secrets to using retail products to increase their profits and improve the guest experience? Joining the discussion today are Shea Johnson - owner of North and State Esthetics Studio, Joey Figueiredo - Daicy / Figueiredo salon studio, Lindsey Couch - Paul Mitchell Educator, and Tahesa Nelson - owner of Studio 406 Hair Salon.

Join us as the panel explains their wins in retail, how to develop relationships with distributors, and how all five senses play an integral role in an excellent guest experience. With the holidays around the corner, take the opportunity to learn how to better serve your clients while helping pay your rent at the same time.

In This Episode

[1:06] - Panelists interview themselves, where they are located as Sola business owners, and how retail has made a big impact on their business.

[4:22] - Creating an immersive experience using all five senses helps build trust and increases sales.

[5:51] - Shea explains why it is important to educate the client about products you’re using.

[6:29] - Lindsey shares a story about a guest experience with a take home product that demonstrates how retail products can actually change lives.

[7:44] - Creating the work at home is sometimes a challenge. Retail products can help clients recreate their look from the salon at home.

[8:56] - What are some good ways to strategically place retail products?

[10:00] - Another idea is to have a product of the month on this one showcased shelf to make it extra noticeable.

[12:08] - Covid has created a shift for many salons and guest experiences. Joey explains a couple of changes in the industry.

[15:41] - Online ordering with a distributor can also have major benefits and helps develop a relationship.

[19:08] - Joey explains why you may need to be proactive to ask and develop relationships with distributors.

[20:01] - Joey asks clients to bring in their own products to see why his are better.

[21:18] - As an esthetician, Shea explains how she sells retail without coming across as “salesy.”

[22:20] - How can you educate guests in the sales process? Rephrasing the guest’s concern, using “because,” and following up with a recommendation impacts sales.

[24:55] - It is really important to sell the products that you love.

[26:00] - With holidays coming, the panel encourages offering products as gifts.

[29:14] - Think of retail as an opportunity to throw in the extra things you love and to make extra income.

Links and Resources

Shea Johnson Instagram - @northandstate_estheticsstudio

Joey Figueiredo Instagram - @stylistjoey

Lindsey Couch Instagram - @thehungryhairdresser

Tahesa Nelson Instagram - @hairbytahesa

78. Branding, Marketing and Creating Connections with Nina Kovner Sep 21, 2021

Our guest on this episode is exactly what she says she is: a Chief Awesomeness Empowerer. Nina Kovner joins us as someone dear to us at Sola - she was our first ever keynote speaker at Sola Sessions and since then we have collaborated on so much education. From webinars, live events, to in-person intimate workshops, we’ve covered so many important topics ranging from branding, social media, authenticity, storytelling, boundaries and mental health.

Nina Kovner is the founder of Passion Squared, where she turned a challenging experience into one of inspiration for herself and others. At Passion Squared, they go straight to the heart of the matter to help entrepreneurs find clarity and eliminate confusion and chaos around how to create, build, and grow a creative small business. Prior to that, Nina spent 25 years working for John Paul Mitchell Systems and there found herself in marketing, a side of the business she never thought she’d be in.

Nina has been such an inspiration to the Sola family through the years as a coach, mentor and friend. She describes her true passion as empowering others, and she does just that in this episode and beyond.

In This Episode

[2:29] - Welcome to the show, Nina!

[5:24] - Nina shares her journey in the industry and how her career evolved.

[7:18] - She was with John Paul Mitchell Systems for 25 years and discovered her workaholism. She checked herself into a program for depression and had to make a difficult decision.

[8:26] - Her experience in marketing and her need to start from scratch led to the creation of Passion Squared.

[11:24] - Nina does not have a degree in marketing but found herself there as someone who is passionate about serving others.

[12:55] - One of Nina’s strengths is her ability to follow her intuition and connect with people.

[14:40] - People don’t want to be sold to. They want to be connected with.

[16:15] - Humans are inherently social beings. Hairdressers specifically are gifted in building relationships. This knowledge made a difference for Nina in marketing.

[17:40] - Passion Squared is celebrating 10 years next year and Nina admits that the first couple of years were a struggle on social media.

[19:01] - Tools and technology are always changing and you have to be where your customers are. But branding can stay consistent.

[21:22] - Word of mouth is a result of great experience. That is the best kind of marketing.

[22:42] - Nina explains the difference between brand and business. People don’t buy what you do, they buy why you do it.

[24:38] - The industry did not jump on social media early on and Nina explains that it’s because it’s uncomfortable.

[26:07] - Without the foundation of a brand story, you will run into problems.

[27:47] - Be where your clients are and where you can stay consistent. Consistency builds trust.

[29:04] - Yelp and Google Business are sometimes even more important and impactful than social media platforms.

[31:10] - Become clear about your brand in the beginning.

[32:33] - Nina shares the questions to ask yourself when defining the clarity around your brand.

[34:42] - Which is better? The generalist or the specialist?

[36:11] - Nina gives an example of how to find a niche to brand and tell your story.

[38:49] - You can be general in your services, but your story should be focused.

[40:58] - Keep your brand promise which goes back to being completely clear on what that is.

[43:40] - You are not the center of the story. It is all about the client.

[46:14] - Nina shares what she’ll be sharing at the upcoming Sola Sessions.

Links and Resources

Purchase Ticket to September 27th Sola Sessions

Passion Squared Website

Passion Squared on Instagram

Passion Squared on Facebook

77. Education and Entrepreneurship with John Mosley Sep 14, 2021

John Mosley, also known as Mr. Popular Nobody, is one of the most iconic and sought after barbers in the industry. John is the founder and CEO of his own brand Popular Nobody and the current artistic director of John Paul Mitchell Systems. He has been named Top 100 Industry Game Changers by Modern Salon Magazine as well as Barber Educator of the Year by Barbershop Connect. Although he wears many hats, John always makes time to pour love and inspiration back into his community and the greater beauty industry.

We are so grateful to call John a friend and a true supporter of the Sola family. He has been on the Sessions stage twice before, and we are thrilled to have him join us virtually at The Sola Sessions Reimagined on Monday, September 27th .

Tune in to learn about John’s background, his journey creating and growing his brand, and get inspired by his passion for education.

In This Episode

[1:38] - John Mosley (@popularnobody) is one of the top and highly sought after barbers in the industry.

[3:51] - John is a big believer in friends for life. He keeps people close to him.

[5:08] - He was playing college football and decided it wasn’t for him. He followed in the footsteps of his family members in the beauty industry.

[6:39] - John explains how he was loyal to the barbershop he worked in until he was able to open his own.

[10:23] - You can’t be successful until you start. John keeps it real on social media to avoid influencing the next generation with disillusion.

[12:54] - Our minds are trained to crave instant gratification, but John explains the importance of patience and long term goals.

[14:02] - Lean into education opportunities in the industry.

[15:19] - John appreciates the process over the end result. His advice is to fall in love with the process in building your business.

[16:53] - Branding is not just a logo. It is an identity.

[18:24] - Maximize your opportunities to build your brand.

[20:06] - John offers a branding course and discusses the importance of aligning everything.

[26:16] - Many times, we create our own anxiety.

[28:37] - In this industry, we put our customers first, sometimes to a fault. How can you do small things to put yourself first?

[30:43] - John is passionate about educating others and gives his classes everything he’s got.

[32:56] - Education has many more impacts than just getting better at your craft.

[33:40] - John shares his thoughts about Sola Sessions and the Sola Family.

[34:53] - What can you expect from John at the upcoming Sola Sessions?

[36:17] - Being innovative and a role model are what keeps John motivated.

[38:01] - Find The Popular Nobody App on Android and Apple device app stores.

Links and Resources

Purchase Ticket to September 27th Sola Sessions

The Popular Nobody Website

Popular Nobody: The Apex Podcast

Popular Nobody on Instagram

76. Letting Your Light Shine with Sonya Dove Sep 08, 2021

We are thrilled to have industry icon Sonya Dove on this episode of Sola Stories...and even more thrilled to have her as an educator at The Sola Sessions Reimagined on Monday, September 27th! As Wella’s Global Creative Ambassador for over 35 years, Sonya plays an integral role in the brand’s trade presence with color innovation, inspiration, and education. She collaborates with educators from a range of professional haircare brands creating editorial and competition shoots, as well as education and trend development designed to inspire stylists all over the world. Sonya is fueled by her passion for every aspect of her career, and she actively surrounds herself with creatives of all industries. She uses her life experiences as an inspiration when mentoring or judging hair competitions, backstage at New York Fashion Week, producing photo shoots, in film wig work, and on stage at industry shows and events.

Sonya is a beacon of inspiration, education, and mentorship for the stylist community. Her commitment to developing others to find their own voice within the beauty industry is truly her strength and it shines in today’s conversation. Listen to her stories, both personal and professional, and let your own light shine as you learn from one of the greatest.

In This Episode

[0:36] - This episode’s guest is industry icon, Sonya Dove.

[1:45] - Sonya will be an educator in September at The Sola Sessions Reimagined.

[2:40] - Sonya shares her background and how she ended up on her career path.

[4:12] - Eventually, Sonya started entering into competitions and before she knew it, she and her husband were doing shows for Wella.

[5:56] - Through her journey, Sonya moved to the United States.

[7:54] - In 2007, Sonya and her husband opened their own salon in Los Angeles. The time was unfortunately hard due to a recession.

[8:42] - Wella stepped in to help for one year and helped Sonya avoid bankruptcy.

[10:43] - One of the reasons people choose to own their salon through Sola is freedom.

[12:01] - It is important to Sonya to be aligned with the Wella manufacturer. She has been with them for 35 years.

[14:57] - Sonya is one of Wella’s global artists. She describes what she does in this role.

[16:16] - Sonya does it all and she loves the variety in her job.

[17:18] - Take care of yourself to avoid burnout and learn to say no to some things.

[20:19] - Sola provides so much education. Sonya describes how she delivers education, too.

[23:11] - Create the space and culture you need in your salon. The details make a difference.

[25:14] - How did the pandemic impact Sonya? How did she manage the negativity?

[28:10] - Most of Sonya’s work with Wella now is virtual.

[30:52] - It is so important to give yourself a mental break.

[32:14] - Sonya created a show on all of her personal loves including how nature, food, and music influence her hairstyles.

[35:00] - Sonya shares that she failed in school and was always told she would not be successful.

[36:10] - In her personal life, Sonya has had many ups and downs.

[38:56] - Sola Sessions are for education with inspiring leaders in the industry.

[40:01] - Sonya explains that she never lost momentum in her career. You can have it all.

[41:42] - Something we need to be conscious of in this industry is to support each other.

[43:22] - What will Sonya be sharing at the next Sola Sessions?

[46:17] - You can purchase your tickets to the Sola Sessions on September 27th at SolaSessions.com.

[47:03] - Sonya is very active and responsive on Instagram and her website SonyaDove.com.

Links and Resources

Purchase Ticket to September 27th Sola Sessions

Sonya Dove - Website

Sonya Dove on Facebook

Sonya Dove on Instagram

Sonya Dove Hair YouTube Channel

Wella - Website

Wella Education Website

Wella Education on Facebook

75. 10 Reasons to Attend Sola Sessions Sep 02, 2021

We’ve got a lot of amazing stuff up our sleeves for The Sola Sessions Reimagined, a virtual education event for independent salon owners, coming to you live on September 27th. Tune in for 10 (of the many) reasons you’ll want to join!

In This Episode

[0:30] – 10 reasons why you don't want to miss The Sola Sessions: Reimagined!

[1:29] – Reason #1 – learn from the industry's best educators!

[2:17] – Second reason is that you can choose your own journey!

[2:46] – The vendor expo.

[3:28] – Two hosts that you are familiar with!

[4:25] – The next reason is that the event is offered at a low price!

[5:02] – On-demand access until the end of the year!

[5:27] – The eighth reason is that there will be prizes and giveaways!

[5:41] – There will be live Q&A sessions!

[6:00] – The tenth and final reason is the Faces of Sola panel discussions!

Links and Resources

The Sola Sessions: Reimagined

Jennie’s Instagram Page

74. Set Boundaries like a Boss with Gina Bianca Aug 24, 2021

Having boundaries is crucial to running a successful business and maintaining a healthy work-life balance. And while boundaries have always been important, they have been an especially hot topic during the pandemic.

Salon business educator Gina Bianca joins us in this episode to share her expertise on this very topic. Gina wears many hats as a salon owner, an educator, a coach, and a content creator. How does she do it all, and do it well? It all boils down to one thing: boundaries.

Tune in to hear about this young woman’s journey to success; how she got into the business and gained all of the valuable experience that she now has, the importance of mentorship and paying knowledge forward, and why setting boundaries are absolutely crucial to being a success in the beauty industry. She encourages listeners to just say no, emphasizing that just because you can do something doesn't necessarily mean that you should. She also recommends having a mission to better ensure that everything that you do revolves around your core values, revealing that her mission is all about elevating the beauty industry.

In This Episode

[0:32] – Gina recently talked about boundaries in this industry.

[2:33] – Gina having to set a boundary with her mother.

[5:30] – Setting boundaries is especially hard when you're codependent.

[7:37] – Mental health and setting boundaries have a history of being taboo topics.

[10:34] – Gina dives into sharing her journey.

[13:00] – Gina learned everything by taking risks and putting work in.

[16:09] – A little bit of background information about Gina outside of her business.

[18:56] – How Gina decided on the importance of mentorship for her.

[21:36] – Gina takes pride in paying kindness forward.

[24:11] – Learn who Gina credits as having literally saved her life.

[26:18] – This industry is so giving!

[28:44] – People often like to hoard knowledge rather than share it.

[31:00] – Sola has 17,000 small business owners in the United States as well as locations in Canada and Brazil!

[33:45] – Multiple revenue streams.

[35:12] – Why making money tends to be a taboo topic.

[37:55] – Bad work vs. good work.

[40:32] – The abundance mindset.

[43:02] – Many salon owners aren't taking advantage of retail.

[44:31] – Gina's theory on why people in the service industry have trouble setting boundaries.

[47:33] – You have to work hard before you're in demand.

[50:25] – You sometimes build long-lasting relationships with your clients.

[53:40] – Have boundaries with your time!

[54:13] – Say no when you need to!

[56:28] – Elevating the beauty industry is Gina's mission.

[59:24] – It's hard but so important to say no.

[1:00:26] – How listeners can connect with Gina.

Links and Resources

The Sola Sessions: Reimagined

BeautyHive - Website

Clubhouse

Giana's Instagram Page

The Network Salon - Website

Mastermind - Website

73. Stocking Your Studio: Retail and Backbar Aug 18, 2021

If offering retail is not a part of your salon business, there’s a chance you’re leaving some money on the table. But when it comes to stocking your backbar, there’s a lot to consider – including partnering with the right brands that fit the culture of your salon.

Tune in to this episode where we chat with Hunter Donia, Ashley Lantz and Kim Bennett to discuss all things stocking your studio with retail and backbar. Find out how to select a brand that meets the needs of your brand and your target market, as well as how to make retail a part of your amazing customer experience. They also share ways to become more confident when offering your clients retail, tips for staying organized, and so much more.

So, the question is: Are you ready to streamline your backbar ordering systems and rock the retail game?

In This Episode

[0:24] – Stocking your studio with retail and backbar.

[2:30] – Why partnerships are very important.

[3:58] – Color, Hunter argues, is the pinnacle of the hair salon industry.

[5:39] – Shoutout to Kim Bennett and how products are a huge part of her salon experience!

[7:30] – Kim agrees with Hunter's point about marketing with a brand.

[9:30] – Why it's so important to choose a brand that will support you.

[11:38] – Kim advises salon owners to have a separate financial account for retail.

[14:13] – Ashley discusses her brand partnership.

[16:13] – How Hunter brought his brand into his Sola studio and the importance of his core values.

[18:39] – Salon owners are salespeople.

[21:03] – Efficiency and ordering when stocking your retail and backbar.

[22:19] – How to make sure that what you bring in doesn't collect dust.

[25:13] – BeautyHive has a nifty feature that makes it easy to reorder!

[26:11] – Hunter's take on organizing your stock.

[28:13] – Retail customers can be just as valuable as service customers.

[30:40] – Do you value a brand having an affiliate code program?

[32:59] – Bookkeeping and keeping track of your numbers is very important.

[35:22] – Kim redirects the conversation back to restocking.

[38:14] – Whether or not Kim sells a lot online.

[40:07] – Kim discusses her color backbar.

[42:18] – It's smart to keep notes about your clients on SolaGenius.

[43:45] – The importance of the guest experience.

[45:58] – Kim's experience during COVID.

[47:58] – Jennie's customer perspective.

[50:58] – Salon owners should assume that the client knows nothing about their hair.

[51:45] – Angela's customer perspective.

[53:50] – Hairstylists are the authority of what they do.

Links and Resources

The Sola Sessions: Reimagined

BeautyHive - Website

Clubhouse

@hairbyhunty on Clubhouse

72. Salon Marketing for the Back-to-School Session Aug 11, 2021

All good things must come to an end. With summer winding down, it’s time to capitalize on the busy back-to-school season, and we're willing to bet this season is going to be especially busy because, for many kids, this is their first time back in a normal in-person school setting.

From collaboration with your community to sales that are too hot to resist, tune in for our top tips for capitalizing on this back-to-school season.

In This Episode

[0:30] – Salon Marketing for the Back-to-School Season from the Sola Blog.

[1:08] – Understand your audience.

[1:45] – Markdowns and retail incentives.

[2:20] – Start a rewards system for repeat customers.

[2:55] – You should collaborate with other small business owners.

[3:36] – Have a back-to-school open house event!

[4:13] – Use social media to target students.

[4:40] – Consider hosting contests on social media.

[4:58] – Remember parents' needs and wants too!

[5:42] – The Sola Sessions are coming back on Monday, September 27th!

Links and Resources

71. Manifesting Success with Carlisha Duffey Aug 03, 2021

Carlisha Duffey is one of our 2020 Faces of Sola and the owner of Southern Girl Natural Hair Studio in Topeka, Kansas. As Carlisha puts it, her studio is a safe place for naturally curly hair. Carlisha is a woman who wears many hats, as she is not only a hairstylist but is also a trained figure skater, writer, photographer, published author and student. She joins us on the Sola Stories Podcast to discuss her experience as an independent salon owner and how she manages to balance it all.

Carlisha shares how she got into the beauty industry, initially having done costuming, hair and makeup for Disney World! She goes into detail about how she established her Kansas salon location, and she also elaborates upon her why and the philosophy behind what she does in her studio.

She also talks about her skills as a photographer and how she came to shoot a cover featuring Tippi Shorter for Beauty Launchpad, and she looks toward the future and discusses what's next for her on the horizon. Tune in to be entertained and inspired by Carlisha's aspirational journey and endless success.

In This Episode

[0:46] – This episode's guest is Carlisha Duffey of Southern Girl Natural Hair Studio!

[2:40] – Learn about Carlisha's journey in the beauty industry.

[4:58] – How Carlisha got her cosmetology license

[5:52] – Discover how Carlisha established her Topeka, Kansas location.

[7:58] – Starting this journey was scary for Carlisha, and she had to take a leap of faith.

[10:20] – Carlisha is now a mentor for up-and-coming salon owners.

[13:17] – Carlisha shares her why behind her studio.

[16:07] – Carlisha's philosophy about styling hair and how her studio is a judgment-free zone.

[18:22] – Carlisha explains the meaning behind her motto – Your hair is a crown that you never take off.

[20:33] – What being one of the Faces of Sola means to Carlisha.

[23:28] – Carlisha was fired from a traditional salon because of pursuing her own salon.

[27:04] – Carlisha has such an incredible story!

[28:58] – Carlisha compares her studies in school to the X-Men.

[31:17] – Learn about Carlisha's talent as a photographer.

[34:02] – Carlisha's multiple skills meant that she was able to pivot on set.

[37:06] – Carlisha is able to accomplish her goals even when she is outside of her comfort zone.

[38:42] – How Carlisha came to shoot a cover for Beauty Launchpad.

[41:21] – Carlisha knew what she wanted in her life and made it happen by asking for it.

[44:20] – What's next for Carlisha!

[45:20] – Carlisha's book Begin Again is out now, and Shampoo Girl is coming soon!

[48:59] – How listeners can connect with Carlisha.

Links and Resources

Carlisha’s Instagram Page

Carlisha’s Website

hairbycarlisha - Instagram Page

Southern Girl Natural Hair Studio - Instagram Page

Carlisha A. Duffey – Begin Again

BeautyHive – Website

Beauty Launchpad - Website

70. Tips to Get Over a Creative Block Jul 28, 2021

Read the full blog: Tips to Get Over a Creative Block

Do you find yourself wanting to uplevel your craft, offer something new, or produce content, but feel stuck or don’t know where to start? As a beauty professional, you are an artist, subject to the same creative blocks and slumps that infamously plague writers, performers, musicians, fine artists and creators of all kinds.

Creative blocks are barriers to inspiration that get in the way of accessing your inner creativity, lasting anywhere from hours to years. Often this can become a self-defeating cycle, where creative people will actually beat themselves up for their slump, driving the creative block further into the psyche and cementing it into the brain.

Whether you want to try a new balayage technique or post your photos on Instagram, we want to help pull yourself out of creative ruts faster with these tried and true ways that artists have relied on to move past creative blocks and recover your creative spirit.

In This Episode

[0:51] - Do you feel stuck and not sure where to start in upleveling your business?

[1:26] - Creative blocks can last from hours to even years.

[2:35] - Tip #1 is rest and relaxation. Seems counterproductive, but gives your creative spirit time to breathe.

[3:38] - Tip #2: Write it Out. This is a key to unlocking creativity.

[4:58] - Writing it out also challenges your negative self-talk.

[6:19] - In writing your thoughts daily, you will feel more connected to your creativity and get to know your inner voice.

[6:34] - Tip #3 is all about education. As a creative, it is important to expand your knowledge.

[7:38] - Tip #4: Digital Detox. Three to seven days can give your brain a reset.

[9:15] - Tip #5 is to stop trying and do something that you love. What are your hobbies?

[10:05] - Above all else, be kind to yourself. Accept your creative blocks.

Links and Resources

Follow Sola on Instagram: @solasalons

Read more on the Sola Blog

Sola Pro App

69. Charging Hourly with Ashley Lantz Jul 20, 2021

During The Sola Sessions Reconnected, we hosted a panel discussion about charging what you're worth. We received a lot of questions about charging hourly from Ashley Lantz - so many, in fact, that we decided to bring her on as a guest to discuss her recent change in price structure. Ashley is the owner of MAUVE Salon in Avondale, Arizona as well as one of the 2018 Faces of Sola and a member of Thrivers Society. She is a speciality colorist and has grown into a very successful salon owner over the last five years at Sola.

Ashley joins us to talk about her recent decision to charge hourly and her best tips to make the change yourself. She offers advice on how to determine an hourly rate that is appropriate for you and your business as well as how to set your prices if you're going straight into a salon studio as opposed to transitioning from one salon to another. This insightful conversation is a must-listen if you are considering making the change to hourly pricing or could use a boost to start charging what you’re worth!

In This Episode

[0:58] – We got so many questions from Ashley Lantz about charging hourly.

[2:31] – Ashley has grown into a larger studio over time.

[5:00] – How Ashley priced her services when she first moved into Sola

[6:20] – Learn how to price your services if you're going straight into a studio.

[8:18] – How Ashley rebranded between her previous salon and her new salon

[9:30] – What inspired Ashley to charge hourly.

[11:07] – What was most difficult for Ashley about making her pricing structure transition.

[15:09] – Charging hourly is a good way to get rid of services that don't serve you anymore.

[16:21] – Ashley offers more reasons to switch to charging hourly.

[17:52] – How Ashley plans to track success with her new pricing structure

[19:54] – Learn how Ashley chose her hourly rate.

[22:07] – Ashley discusses determining your hourly rate using the goal digger method.

[24:42] – Ashley used SolaGenius to tell her clients about the change in pricing structure.

[27:42] – It's so difficult to avoid emotional discounts for loyal customers.

[29:25] – Ashley talks about the relationship between prices and rent.

[32:20] – One of the main reasons stylists join Sola is to avoid traditional salons and commissions.

[33:23] – Reach out to Ashley on Instagram.

[34:11] – Last words of wisdom for anyone considering changing to charging hourly.

Links and Resources

@solasalons Instagram

Sola Stories - Episode 57: Charge What You’re Worth

68. Creating an Amazing Guest Experience in a Suite Jul 14, 2021

Running a salon isn't just about hair and makeup. It’s about a personalized experience where your clients can feel comfortable, vulnerable, safe and beautiful from the inside out. That's why creating an amazing guest experience for clients is so important.

Wondering how to create an experience worth coming back for? What small (or big) things can you add to your salon environment or service to make them feel special?

Tune in to this episode as Angela Ribbler, Jennie Wolff, Hunter Donia and Ebony Nelson share how to create a memorable guest experience in a salon studio, while also incorporating your personality and core values into your safe haven. Your clients don’t just come to you for a service but rather a holistic experience. Creating a next-level guest experience is a win-win because they feel pampered, and you can feel comfortable and confident charging what you’re worth.

In This Episode

[0:31] – A Clubhouse conversation about creating a great client experience in a suite.

[1:52] – What makes what Ebony offers unique.

[3:54] – Ebony compares the guest experience to customer service.

[5:52] – Ebony makes it a point to hype her clients up!

[8:28] – Jennie confirms how important it is, as a customer, to feel seen.

[9:14] – How Hunter's salon offers a unique experience.

[11:02] – Hairstylists are problem solvers!

[12:08] – Hunter reveals a couple of ways that he makes the experience with him tailored to his clients.

[13:05] – Angela offers her perspective as a client and discusses the booking process.

[13:58] – Ebony's thoughts on booking appointments.

[15:44] – Simplify your marketing!

[17:05] – Hunter offered a complementary Zoom consultation before prospective clients booked appointments with him.

[19:22] – Why a pre-consultation can be very important.

[22:28] – Your consultation is a chance to excite prospective clients!

[25:03] – More insight about making clients comfortable.

[26:01] – Always improving the experience gives you a reason to raise prices.

[27:34] – Challenge creates opportunity!

[29:43] – Read your guests so that you can interpret what they want that day.

[31:08] – What Katie has been doing to make her clients comfortable.

[33:53] – Incorporate your personality into your salon experience!

[36:25] – Hunter builds his brand around low maintenance.

[39:49] – How to encourage clients to relax and enjoy quiet time during a lengthy appointment.

[40:58] – Hunter discusses setting boundaries.

[43:19] – Your client wants their hair to look good which you can't do if you're drained of energy.

[44:33] – Movies and shows are one way to keep clients occupied.

[47:11] – You can create a better experience for guests when you know them!

Links and Resources

Follow Sola on Instagram: @solasalons

Follow Hunter Donia on Instagram:@hairbyhunty

Follow Ebony Nelson on Instagram: @theebonynelson

Follow Angela Ribbler on Instagram: @acontentqueen

Follow Jennie Wolff on Instagram: @jenniethewolff

5 Sola Resources You May Not Have Known About

67. 5 Sola Resources You May Not Have Known About Jul 06, 2021

It is our mission to empower you to elevate your career as an independent beauty professional and experience the freedom of salon ownership. That’s why we want to make sure you know about all the powerful tools and resources that are available to you as a Sola professional.

From helping new clients discover you, to streamlining your processes, we are here to help you feel successful in and out of the salon.

Tune in to hear 5 Sola resources you may not have known about.

Time Stamps

[0:27] – 5 Sola resources you may not have been aware of

[1:05] – BeautyHive

[2:14] – SolaGenius

[3:07] – PerkSpot

[3:34] – Access PerkSpot deals through the Sola Pro app.

[4:03] – On-demand education in Sola Pro.

[4:40] – You can still access The Sola Sessions Reconnected.

[4:50] – BookNow

Links and Resources

The Sola Sessions Reconnected

BookNow

66. Setting Boundaries and Budgets for your Salon with Nina Tulio Jun 30, 2021

Let’s face it, charging what you’re worth is sometimes easier said than done. But when you are equipped with the education to assess the financial breakdown of your business, it becomes a whole lot easier to understand your value and have confidence to charge what you’re worth.

Joining us on the Sola Stories Podcast is Nina Tulio, an industry leading salon business consultant, speaker, and educator, having worn many different hats over the last twenty-five years. She started a consulting agency in 2016 to help salon owners and stylists grow their business, create (and stick to) a budget, and set boundaries. Her latest venture has allowed her to combine both her love for helping people and her love for the industry, and she is here to help stylists and salon owners set prices based on fact, not fear.

Listen now to hear Nina as she talks about understanding your value before discovering your worth, how to save smarter and (like putting aside 3-6 months worth of operating expenses in a savings account), how to avoid guilt when raising prices and refusing discounts, and so much more.

In This Episode

[0:33] – Nina Tulio is this episode's guest.

[2:40] – Parallels between Nina's teachings and Sola's teachings.

[3:18] – Nina's journey in the beauty industry and her current consultant agency.

[5:26] – Specifics on what Nina offers to hairdressers through her program.

[7:37] – Nina has a podcast – No Stylist Left Behind!

[8:34] – Charging what your value is and how to determine that.

[11:30] – How someone determines what they're going to charge when they go directly to a studio.

[13:27] – Do your pricing based on facts, not fear.

[15:40] – How to budget properly.

[18:14] – Why some suite owners overspend on supplies.

[20:23] – Jennie discusses BeautyHive.

[22:00] – Percentages involve your prices as well as your spending.

[24:57] – How to know when to raise your prices.

[27:57] – Nina believes that salon owners should share with clients beforehand that a price increase is coming.

[29:50] – Nina also believes that it's a good idea to share with clients why you're increasing your prices.

[31:48] – Why many salon owners give emotional discounts and how to stop doing it.

[34:51] – Giving discounts is essentially the same as giving money away.

[37:57] – Become comfortable with looking into your numbers! (If you don't know your numbers, you don't know your business!)

[39:45] – Trust in yourself and in your skills!

[41:15] – Where listeners can connect with Nina.

Links and Resources

Make That Money! Course

Nina’s Instagram Page

Nina’s Website

The Synergy Course

No Stylist Left Behind Podcast

Sola Stories - Episode 17: Crisis Creates Opportunity with Michael Cole

Sola Stories - Episode 50: Quick Tip: Understanding Your Sola Business

BeautyHive – Website

65. How to Market Your Salon Environment to the Max Jun 23, 2021

You've spent a ton of time and energy making your space perfect for your guests. What if your salon could create an amazing experience for your current clients while also attracting new clients to your chair? It's easier than you may think. What initially drew you to a salon studio environment, and how can you market those benefits to your clients, too?

The latest Sola Stories Podcast was created from a recorded Clubhouse room that we hosted with salon owner, Hunter Donia. We chatted all about why and how to market, not only your services, but your actual salon environment to its full potential. Various Sola professionals also share their experiences and how they market their salons. Tune in as they share helpful insights and bounce around creative and effective ways to market your salon environment.

If you're not yet on Clubhouse, we strongly encourage you to join and follow Sola, Hunter Donia and Angela Ribbler so that you can be a part of future conversations like this one every Tuesday morning!

In This Episode

[0:28] – How to market your salon environment to the max with Hunter Donia and Angela Ribbler on Clubhouse.

[1:58] – There is an episode of the podcast about why you should join Clubhouse.

[2:34] – Be sure to join the Sola club on Clubhouse.

[3:29] – What it means to market your salon environment to the max

[5:25] – Hunter gives an example of marketing your brand.

[8:45] – What drew you to your preferred salon environment?

[10:40] – Angela argues that you should get creative and make use of what you can do.

[15:49] – Be transparent about the experience that you create for clients.

[18:22] – Angela shares a story of helping her close friend – who is transgender – find a hairdresser.

[21:46] – Christina reveals what about her salon will make for a unique experience.

[24:13] – Angela enthuses over a video from Hunter's Instagram page.

[25:41] – Christina's process of showing and/or telling clients about her environment.

[28:47] – Sola partners with beauty professionals for them to share their stories, and Angela explains why that's important.

[32:07] – Emily's salon is one of the only salons in her area that is LGBTQ+ friendly.

[34:36] – Your talent and the appearance of your salon don't matter if you don't market yourself.

[37:35] – Hunter talks about charging what you're worth and raising your prices.

[42:57] – Sola professionals can use SolaGenius for a low price.

[45:13] – Sydney uses video to market herself and wants to take that to another level.

[47:09] – Simplify your pricing for online booking as much as possible.

[52:14] – Take advantage of story highlights on Instagram and use Instagram's Guides feature.

[55:00] – You could group your Instagram story highlights by hair color.

[57:27] – Survey people. Ask them what they want!

[59:58] – Sola's recent episode about the updated mask mandates.

[1:02:16] – Hunter's opinion about safety during current times.

[1:05:03] – Hunter and Angela bring the episode to a close.

Links and Resources

“5 Reasons Beauty Professionals Should Join Clubhouse”

Hunter's Instagram: @hairbyhunty

Angela's Instagram: @acontentqueen

“How to Respond to Changing Mask Guidelines as an Independent Salon Owner”

64. Radically Curly and Purposefully Passionate with Danielle Green Jun 16, 2021

Danielle Green, passionate activist, educator, social media sensation and Radically Curly Salon owner, joins us on this episode to share how she turned her passion of textured hair into her life purpose. Danielle grew up in the beauty industry as an apprentice to her mother, and has now been in her Sola studio in Las Vegas for eleven years. She and her team specialize in and celebrate curly hair, with the mission to empower clients with all hair types and textures to feel confident wearing their crown.

Danielle is a strong advocate for the Crown Act, created to outlaw discrimination based on hair style and texture in workplaces and public schools. She has also started her own petition to create a curriculum for curly and textured hair in all cosmetology schools. Join us to talk about the beauty and meaning of textured hair, why and how to become an advocate for change and how to empower future generations to embrace the natural fabric of their hair.

In This Episode

[0:33] – Danielle Green introduces herself and why she is passionate about textured and curly hair.

[0:49] – Jennie and Danielle explain what the CROWN Act prohibits.

[1:16] – Danielle shares some background information.

[4:00] – Danielle shares her story of being in the beauty industry.

[5:54] – A crisis can lead to growth and new opportunities.

[7:09] – How Radically Curly grew as a brand.

[9:20] – Where the name Radically Curly comes from.

[10:54] – Radically Curly operates together as a team.

[12:36] – Radically Curly's multicultural element.

[14:16] – Danielle's struggle with her curly hair in the past.

[17:15] – Various ethnicities are affected by curly hair bias.

[19:35] – Standards of beauty are arbitrary and change throughout history.

[21:20] – The CROWN Act protects people like Danielle.

[23:56] – The CROWN Act has been passed in Nevada and sixteen other states as well.

[26:32] – We are headed in the right direction, but there is still work to be done.

[29:13] – What Danielle did in Nevada to use her voice and make a difference.

[32:22] – Danielle has created a cosmetology petition to raise awareness.

[34:54] – Why all hairdressers should be taught about naturally curly hair in cosmetology school.

[36:24] – Mothers sometimes come into salons with daughters with very different hair types than theirs.

[38:57] – Internal and external problems are caused by shame.

[41:50] – Kenya Kirk and her program, Mommy and Me.

[44:04] – Danielle's contact info.

Links and Resources

Radically Curly Salon - Website

The CROWN Act - Website

Radically Curly - Instagram Page

Radically Curly - Twitter Page

Radically Curly - Facebook Page

Cosmetology Petition

Faces of Sola Series: Kenya Kirk

BeautyHive - Website

The Sola Sessions Reconnected – Buy On-Demand Ticket

63. 5 Tips to Save Time in the Salon Jun 09, 2021

What would you do with a few more hours back in your day? Spend more time with your family? Squeeze in a few more appointments? Relax? No matter your answer, the beauty of being the boss is that your time and schedule is completely in your hands. We're just here to help you spend less time doing busy work and more time doing what you love. Follow these five tips to save yourself time and give yourself the peace of mind you need and deserve as a go-getting salon owner!

Time Stamps

[0:32] – 5 tips to save time in the salon from the Sola blog

[1:10] – Tip #1 – Clean as you go.

[1:58] – Tip #2 – Keep your salon stocked with BeautyHive.

[3:12] – Tip #3 – Use an online booking system like SolaGenius.

[4:09] – Tip #4 – Intentionally schedule your time.

[4:58] – Tip #5 – Stick to a consistent schedule.

[5:44] – The Sola Sessions Reconnected.

Links and Resources

The Sola Sessions Reconnected – Buy On-Demand Ticket

62. Quick Tips to Level Up Your Instagram Jun 02, 2021

Could your Instagram be doing more to build your business? In this episode of Sola Stories, Sola’s CMO, Jennie Wolff, and Content Queen, Angela Ribbler, team up to share useful tips to help you level up your salon’s Instagram.

Tune in to learn what an effective Instagram bio and feed look like and why they are important for the health of your business. Do you need a business profile? Why should you make sure your profile is set to public? How do you capture your audience’s attention before they leave your page? We cover all of this and so much more on this must-listen episode.

Consistency is also important – having a consistent color scheme, background and posting schedule. We also share why it's important to engage with your followers and encourage interaction rather than just using your Instagram page as a megaphone.

Want more social media tips from the pros? Be sure to check out our library of on-demand Sola Sessions content, available through to the end of 202, for just $29!

Do you have a question we haven’t answered? Reach out to us @solasalons! We would love to hear how we can support you further.

Time Stamps

[0:24] – How to level up your Instagram account

[1:40] – Differences between how you set up a personal Instagram profile and a business Instagram profile

[2:54] – Make your business profile public

[4:42] – Some Instagram features that should be used by salon businesses and why you should use them

[7:17] – Instagram's live feature is a great way to talk about products that you use and sell.

[7:58] – How making your Instagram feed unique to your own style is important

[9:15] – Instagram's Highlights feature is also very useful.

[10:32] – A tip on creating a well-rounded and varied Instagram feed

[12:14] – Why should someone follow you? What makes your feed unique?

[13:24] – How to plan your platform in a more specific way

[15:52] – How to write an effective bio

[16:49] – Your Instagram account should highlight where you're located and what you specialize in

[19:41] – Special certifications should be in your bio.

[20:28] – Post consistently and regularly.

[23:50] – Using good backdrops in your photos

[25:34] – Ways that you can establish engagement

[28:59] – Social media shouldn't be a megaphone; it should be interactive.

[31:44] – An example of targeting your hashtags toward your audience

[33:18] – An effective hashtag and a Book Now button can lead to a full service experience.

[34:30] – The Sola Sessions Reconnected On-Demand.

Links and Resources

The Sola Sessions Reconnected On-Demand

Sola Salons Studios

Later - Social Media Planner

Plann - Social Media Planner

Sola Stories, Episode 36: Quick Tip: Hashing Out Hashtags with Angela Ribbler + Jennie Wolff

61. How to Respond to Changing Mask Guidelines as an Independent Salon Owner May 26, 2021

As an independent salon owner, the return to “business as usual” can result in some critical decision-making to maintain health and safety while avoiding conflict and discomfort. In this time of shifting mask regulations, we want to make sure you are equipped as a small business owner with options for communicating new salon rules to clients amongst varying comfort levels and circumstances.

Time Stamps

[0:28] – How to respond to changing mask guidelines as an independent salon owner, from the Sola blog.

[1:08] – CDC has loosened the mandate for vaccinated Americans.

[1:50] – What the new rules mean for salon owners.

[2:39] – Several routes you can take to manage updated mask policies for your salon. The first is following state and local guidance.

[3:58] – Some sample messaging for clients aligning with local guidance.

[4:42] – The second route is continuing the same mask policy.

[5:36] – Sample messaging for clients continuing mask policy.

[6:20] – Route #3 – survey your clientele.

[7:02] – Survey example for clients

[9:09] – Fourth possible route is to address masks on a case-by-case basis.

[9:43] – Suggested question to ask clients

[10:54] – Place health, comfort, and safety above all else.

Links and Resources

The Sola Blog

The Sola Sessions Reconnected – Buy On-Demand Ticket

60. Charge What You're Worth May 19, 2021

On this episode, we’re bringing you a clip of one of our 20+ classes from The Sola Sessions Reconnected and we’re talking all about pricing strategies, specifically how to charge what you're worth. We're joined by three Faces of Sola - Joey Figueiredo (owner of Daicy // Figueiredo), Bianca Margolis (owner of B. Rose Studio), and Ashley Lantz (owner of Mauve), who each talk a little bit about how they got started in the beauty industry and how raising their prices has helped them elevate their careers.

We discuss the various reasons why a salon owner would raise their prices and how they know when it’s the right time to do it. Joey, Bianca and Ashley also each offer some helpful advice on raising prices and how to go about doing it. Reach out to any one or all three of them for additional advice and/or if you're looking for a mentor, and don't forget that you can still watch the panels from The Sola Sessions Reconnected on-demand all the way through to the end of 2021!

Time Stamps

[0:24] – Pricing strategies and how to charge what you're worth.

[1:07] – A little bit of background information about Joey, Bianca, and Ashley and how they set their prices at the beginnings of their journeys.

[3:20] – Some things that Joey considers when deciding on prices and when to increase them such as location, what kind of studio you're in, rent, and product and inventory.

[3:58] – Bianca's prices reflect on her being the best that she can be.

[4:17] – How hourly pricing is on the rise and what the benefits of it are.

[6:23] – How salon owners might know that it's time to raise prices.

[8:47] – It's funny when other people – especially clients – tell you that you're not charging enough.

[9:58] – Whether or not there is a limit to how often you should raise your prices.

[12:10] – How Bianca decides it's time to raise her prices.

[13:37] – Salon owners frequently experience fear when it comes to raising prices.

[15:33] – Bianca feels that you lose clients regardless of whether or not your prices get raised.

[17:26] – Raising your prices will not usually result in clients tipping less.

[19:21] – How salon owners can communicate that prices are being raised.

[21:52] – Should salon owners explain to their clients why they're increasing their prices?

[24:26] – Justify your price increases if you feel that you have to, but you don't need to apologize for them.

Links and Resources

The Sola Sessions Reconnected – Get On-Demand Access

Sola Salons Studios

59. How To Have a Miracle Mentality with Tim Storey May 12, 2021

Tim Storey, life coach, humanitarian, author and motivational speaker, joins us in this episode to share his uplifting energy and talk about things such as how he got involved in the beauty industry and how discovery is just as important as recovery. Kim and Tim also discuss how the COVID-19 pandemic impacted not only beauty professionals but humanity in general and how we can turn this and other setbacks into comebacks.

We are very excited to have Tim as a keynote speaker at our upcoming virtual event The Sola Sessions Reconnected. Tune in for a sneak peak of some of the inspiration and motivation you’ll get from Tim on our virtual Sessions stage and what he is most looking forward to about connecting with our community at the event.

Grab your ticket today and join us live on Monday, May 17 or on-demand through the end of 2021!

Time Stamps

[0:23] – Kimi Kisses introduces Tim Storey, a keynote speaker at The Sola Sessions Reconnected.

[3:35] – How Tim Storey got involved in the beauty industry.

[5:04] – The beauty industry tends to be inclusive.

[6:48] – What Tim meant when he said that it's a comeback, not just a setback.

[8:55] – Tim's quote about setbacks turning into comebacks helped Kimi during the COVID-19 pandemic.

[10:36] – You can surprise yourself by going somewhere where you've never been before or do something that you've never done before.

[13:48] – Kimi's biggest discovery was self-love.

[14:34] – COVID-19 made many of us become human beings rather than human doings.

[16:25] – Tim Storey's book, The Miracle Mentality

[19:14] – People need to make room for magic in their lives.

[22:29] – Kimi gives an example from her own life about the importance of making room for magic.

[25:00] – What Tim is most excited to share at The Sola Sessions Reconnected

[27:57] – What the word reconnected means to Tim and how disconnection leads to gratitude

[30:00] – Tim's example of how COVID-19 has changed our perception of things

[31:45] – Tim is currently reading his own book.

[33:00] – Tim would tell his younger self to calm down.

[35:44] – Tim lives a life that he loves by being in the moment.

[36:52] – Where listeners can find Tim online

[39:10] – You may not be what you want to be, but be thankful that you're not what you used to be.

Links and Resources

Sola Salons Studios - Website

Tim Storey – The Miracle Mentality: Tap into the Source of Magical Transformation in Your Life

Tim Storey’s Instagram Page

Tim Storey’s Twitter Page

Tim Storey’s Facebook Page

Matrix

58. The Best Investment Beauty Professionals Can Make May 05, 2021

As a beauty professional, ongoing education is not only an edge, it is essential to growing in your craft and career. In the digital age, we have every resource at our fingertips to learn new skills and techniques virtually from the comfort of our own home or studio. It has never been easier to upgrade your toolkit as a beauty professional and learn from the best of the best.

The beauty industry and the Sola community offer exciting opportunities for ongoing education as both a beauty professional and small business owner. Whether you are seeking updated certifications, new skills, cutting-edge beauty tools, or business savvy classes, ongoing education is key to ensuring salon growth and prosperity.

Time Stamps

[0:27] – The best investment beauty professionals can make.

[0:53] – It's your responsibility to keep up with current styles and clients' styles changing and evolving.

[1:30] – There are so many learning opportunities available to beauty professionals and small business owners.

[2:18] – Sola educational resources #1 – The Sola Sessions Reconnected.

[3:49] – Sola resource #2 – Sola Pro.

[4:40] – Sola resource #3 – The Sola Stories Podcast.

[5:21] – The fourth Sola educational resource is the Sola blog.

[6:14] – Beauty industry educational resources, starting with ongoing education and new certificates.

[7:07] – The second industry resource is Clubhouse.

[7:57] – Search “Sola Salon Studios” on the Clubhouse app.

[8:20] – Beauty industry educational resource #3 – TikTok.

[9:40] – Search #SolaSalons or #SolaSalonStudios on TikTok.

[10:51] – What channels that you should use to share what you learn.

[11:37] – Some ideas for setting educational goals for yourself.

Links and Resources

The Sola Stories Podcast

Sola Pro

The Sola Blog

Sola’s Clubhouse

TikTok

PRAVANA

57. Britt Seva’s Tips to Thrive Apr 28, 2021

Britt Seva has made a name for herself as the social media and marketing guru for hairstylists. You may know her as the mastermind behind Thrivers Society, her proprietary coaching program where she has helped over 10,000 stylists and salon owners build wealthy businesses and lives behind the chair. To say we are thrilled to have Britt join us as a keynote speaker at The Sola Sessions Reconnected is an understatement!

We couldn’t wait until Monday, May 17th to learn from Britt, so we invited her to connect with us on The Sola Stories Podcast to share some marketing fundamentals that will improve your business and your life. So, the question is, are YOU ready to thrive?

Time Stamps

[0:34] – Today's guest is Britt Seva, founder of Thrivers Society.

[0:59] – Britt, tell us about your journey.

[2:09] – Sola and Thrivers Society share so much synergy within their communities.

[3:25] – How 2020 affected Sola and how it will change the beauty industry.

[5:10] – Thrivers Society has had so many stylists return to the program a second time.

[7:23] – How Thrivers Society has created a friendly and supportive environment void of competition.

[8:24] – What inspired Britt to go into the beauty industry.

[10:14] – Britt was disillusioned when first joining the industry.

[12:22] – Britt needed to be proactive to build her clientele and find success.

[13:40] – Britt started coaching in 2012.

[15:28] – What some of the benefits are of investing in Thrivers Society.

[17:18] – What kind of stylist is Thrivers Society best suited for?

[19:36] – There are many kinds of wealth – money, time, love, and health.

[22:32] – Being ready, open-minded, and willing to work are key factors to thrive.

[24:48] – Investing time is just as important as investing money.

[27:04] – Many longterm members of Thrivers Society stay because of the supportive community.

[29:57] – The Sola Sessions Reconnected will have a panel about raising prices and charging what you’re worth.

[30:55] – What is most salon owner’s biggest fear(s) and how do you help them overcome those fears?

[33:20] – Change your negative relationship with social media.

[35:32] – The biggest thing that holds beauty professionals back from elevating their business is fear of judgment.

[37:45] – Ask yourself why you like photos on Instagram rather than just double-tapping the photo without thinking about it.

[39:17] – Three key steps to marketing: (1) commit to learning new things, (2) get out of your comfort zone, and (3) ask for help.

[40:42] – A common misconception about marketing as a beauty professional.

[43:15] – Britt wants to make all people in the industry marketing people.

[45:03] – What Britt wishes that she knew at the very beginning of her journey.

[47:11] – The importance of building community and collaboration in this industry.

[49:21] – Britt is looking forward to being the keynote speaker at The Sola Sessions Reconnected on Monday, May 17th.

[50:26] – Where listeners can connect with Britt online.

Links and Resources

Thrivers Society – Website

The Thriving Stylist Podcast

The Thriving Stylist's Instagram Page

Britt's Instagram Page

Britt's Facebook Page

www.brittseva.com

Redken

56. 5 Reasons Beauty Professionals Should Join Clubhouse Apr 21, 2021

Have you joined Clubhouse yet? This invite-only, audio-based social media platform has been the hottest new app of 2021. Clubhouse features discussion rooms with podcast-style moderators, where users can listen to live streaming audio and even join in the conversation “on stage” with the push of a button (and the go-ahead from the room’s moderator). Topics range from beauty and fashion to world events and politics, and everything in between. Tune in to this audio blog for 5 reasons why should get in on the Clubhouse action to grow your salon business.

Time Stamps

[0:28] – Five reasons that beauty professionals should join Clubhouse.

[0:36] – Learn what Clubhouse is and what features it offers.

[1:09] – Reason #1: The opportunity to connect with industry leaders

[1:53] – Have the chance to join conversations with industry greats and talk to people live, in real-time all over the world.

[2:16] – Reason #2: Connect and reconnect with your community.

[3:55] – Reason #3: The opportunity to join the conversation and talk to beauty industry legends.

[5:02] – Reason #4: Free education!

[6:27] – Reason #5: The ability to expand your horizons.

[7:34] – Sola is on Clubhouse! Click here on your mobile device or search “Sola Salon Studios” under the Clubs search bar in your Clubhouse app.

Links and Resources

Clubhouse

55. Reconnecting with Sola Sessions MCs Kim Bennett + Steven Wren Apr 14, 2021

After the challenges 2020 brought us, we are desperate to reconnect with our community and have our community reconnect with each other - and that's exactly what The Sola Sessions Reconnected is all about. Sola’s first virtual education event will be co-hosted by Kim Bennett (@kimi_kisses) and Steven Wren (@mrwrencuts), and our dynamic co-hosting duo has teamed up on this episode to share what they are most looking forward to.

While many of us miss traveling and experiencing in-person events with other salon professionals, there are a lot of benefits to a virtual event, like being able to attend from the comfort of your own home or the very affordable event ticket (even more affordable if you're a Sola professional).

One of the many other great things about our event is it’s inclusivity. In the past, all Sola Sessions have been exclusive to the Sola community. But for The Sola Sessions Reconnected, we are opening it up to reconnect with the entire beauty industry. And with three stages, 20+ classes and 18 hours of education, there is sure to be inspiration and education for everyone, no matter your specialty or where you are in your career. Not sure how you’ll manage watching all of that content in one sitting? We’ve got you covered! Ticket holders will be available to watch every class on-demand through the end of 2021.

We tend to connect and learn the most from people who are like us, and that's exactly why this opportunity to reconnect is so important, especially now. So we hope that you will join us for The Sola Sessions Reconnected on Monday, May 17th. Tickets are on sale now for only $59, and Sola professionals receive exclusive pricing of only $29. Trust us, you do not want to miss it!

Time Stamps

[0:23] – Kim Bennett and Steven Wren greet us and each other, explaining that they will be hosting the upcoming virtual event, The Sola Sessions Reconnected.

[3:01] – Kim comments on how difficult it is to not be able to travel to live events because of the pandemic, but also points to some of the pros of virtual events.

[3:41] – Steven offers his own insight about what having virtual events has been like for him and how events will probably look in the future.

[4:29] – Kim argues that education is likely heading toward a hybrid model of being both live and virtual.

[6:19] – Kim compares the opportunity to virtually connect to having bought her favorite band's CD when she was younger and learning all of the songs but then lining up to see them in concert when they come to your city.

[8:02] – Steven reflects on the fact that being virtual hosts will be firsts for both of them.

[9:47] – Steven reveals what about the event he is most excited about.

[10:51] – Kim enthuses over the conveniences of the event being virtual, such as how more people will be able to attend since they don't have to travel.

[12:31] – Kim discusses the importance of finding people who are similar to you, as those are the types of people with whom we tend to build connections and learn from.

[13:22] – We learn the layout of The Sola Sessions Reconnected, such as how there will be three different stages.

[16:02] – Steven and Kim discuss the importance of community and inclusion with events such as The Sola Sessions Reconnected.

[18:28] – Kim advises us to attend the event in order to grow and reconnect, adding that it will be a learning experience for her and Steven as well.

[20:54] – Steven asserts that the salon industry is a people industry, not just a service.

[23:21] – Kim reveals that she loves education and being a student because she loves to learn.

[24:29] – Steven provides his own insight on how he views education, making the case that education allows for potential to be unlocked.

[25:15] – Kim points out that discomfort comes with the territory of growth, that you have to be willing to go outside of your comfort zone.

[26:50] – Kim presents us with the possibility that a virtual event, even more than a live event, gives people the opportunity to voice themselves.

Links and Resources

The Sola Sessions Reconnected

54. 10 Reasons to Experience The Sola Sessions Reconnected Apr 07, 2021

Staying educated, connected and inspired is key to creating a thriving career. That's why we created the Sola Sessions, which features the industry’s top business, marketing, and artistic educators who help independent salon owners live the salon life of their dreams. On Monday, May 17th we are bringing the Sola Sessions to you for a virtual event! For the first time ever, we are inviting all beauty professionals to experience the Sola Sessions. Tickets are $59 for General Admission, and Sola professionals can receive an exclusive discount of just $29 per ticket. Sola pros, check your email or your Sola Pro app for your exclusive discount code. Get your ticket here: https://events.bizzabo.com/solasessions Reconnect with us and stay educated with the biggest and best brands in the industry — all from the comfort of your own home.

[0:23] – 10 reasons to experience The Sola Sessions Reconnected, a virtual education event for beauty professionals on May 17th.

[1:32] – Reason #1: Our two inspiring keynote presenters, Tim Storey and Britt Seva.

[2:57] – Reason #2: 18+ hours of education from the industry's best minds and biggest brands.

[3:20] – Reason #3: You can choose between 3 tracks of education - business, marketing, inspiration, artistic, or an alternative services track. No matter your specialty, and no matter your interest, we've got you covered.

[3:47] – Reason #4: Since this Sessions is coming to you, you only have to worry about our super affordable event ticket price. No travel, no hotel, no problem!

[4:22] – Reason #5: All sections will be recorded and available to watch until the end of 2021, so you can revisit and rewatch to your heart's content.

[4:44] – Reason #6: Attendees will receive a virtual SWAG bag.

[5:14] – Reason #7: Connect with your favorite brands in the virtual expo hall.

[5:30] – Reason #8: You’ll have the opportunity to not only connect with other independent salon owners, but you'll also gain real-time access to live Q&A with some of the biggest names in the industry.

[5:55] – Reason #9: You won’t want to miss our event MCs, Kim Bennett (aka Kimi Kisses) and Steven Wren.

[6:37] – Reason #10: “We need community, it gives us a place to belong. Community pulls out the creativity in us. It infuses us with strength and makes us into better people.”

[7:30] – Tickets on sale now! Get your ticket here.

Links and Resources

www.solasalonstudios.com

53. It's All About the Journey with Andrew Carruthers Mar 31, 2021

Andrew Carruthers has been a friend to the Sola family for a long time and has had a career that’s truly been a journey. He’s gone from hairdresser to platform artist to salon owner to Director of Education for Sam Villa Brand. After spending many years behind the chair servicing thousands of clients, Andrew was able to connect each role he’s held to one common passion - supporting others on their journeys. This realization brought Andrew to combine his experience and skills from all of his endeavors in his next chapter as a life coach and founder of The Journeyist.

Tune in to this episode to hear what initially drew him into a career in the beauty industry, how he became Director of Education for Sam Villa and how he’s successfully pivoted his career so many times.

Listen as Andrew discusses burnout - what he has learned after experiencing it himself and advice to help others avoid making the same mistakes. Andrew also shares the moment that everything in his life shifted and gave him the confidence to start something new.

In This Episode

[01:19] Welcome to the show, Andrew!

[01:40] Andrew shares what drew him into a career in the beauty industry.

[04:32] Andrew speaks about starting as an apprentice.

[07:32] How did you get connected with Sam Villa?

[10:31] Andrew and Sam realized they had a similar passion and connection to the industry and education.

[14:04] Andrew discusses what inspires him about the Sola community.

[20:10] Andrew talks about spirituality.

[21:29] Andrew speaks about what he is doing with life coaching and where he is with The Journeyist.

[25:01] Andrew talks about the moment that things shifted.

[28:12] It’s important to make sure the lessons we learned last year don’t get left behind.

[35:39] Are you feeling stuck and confused right now?

[37:46] Andrew shares what he has learned from burnout.

[40:25] So many people look back now and think about how much they needed to slow down.

[42:55] Jennie’s grandma told her, “The work stops when you do.”

[45:17] What are you looking forward to most during 2021 and this new chapter of your life?

[48:34] Thank you for being on the show!

Stay Connected

Connect with Jennie

Connect with Andrew

@andrew.carruthers

The Journeyist

52. Setting Up Your Sola Systems with Ashley White and Steven Wren Mar 24, 2021

As a salon owner, you wear so many hats. Systems help you create more efficiency in your business so you can spend more time doing the things you love most. On this episode (originally recorded as a webinar), Faces of Sola Ashley White and Steven Wren share how they lean into the tools created by Sola to set themselves up for success and, if you're not already leaning into any of these tools, how you can get started.

One of the Sola tools we cover is Sola Pro - a Sola-exclusive app to help you stay educated and inspired in the palm of your hand. Using Sola Pro (which recently got a total makeover), you can quickly and easily update your free Sola webpage. Tune in to hear Sola’s Chief Marketing Officer, Jennie Wolff, explain how to take advantage of your Sola webpage to significantly grow your clientele.

Ashley also speaks about SolaGenius and how she leans into features like the color-coded calendar and text and email marketing to save hours each week and keep her books full.

Sola has you covered from online booking to streamlining your backbar ordering with our new online distributor, BeautyHive, which offers perks like free next-day delivery and rewards points. At Sola, whether you want to increase your revenue, become an educator or spend more time with your family, we’ve got your back with tools and systems to help you succeed.

In This Episode

[00:39] Welcome to the show, Steven and Ashley!

[01:02] Steven shares a quick background.

[01:10] Ashley shares a little about herself.

[04:18] Ashley believes that really good booking software was most important when she first started her studio.

[04:54] Steven agrees that the online booking system is key.

[06:41] Ashley has added new systems over the last six years.

[07:32] Steven maximizes his time management with systems.

[09:14] Steven discusses his web presence and where he can be found.

[09:42] Ashley says that she gets the most traffic off her Sola webpage.

[11:00] When was the last time you Googled yourself?

[13:53] Jennie talks about setting up your free Sola webpage.

[15:44] Steven shares why he believes websites are so important.

[18:09] Steven believes that with Sola, there is so much great cross-promotion from non-competing businesses.

[19:03] Steven and Ashley share where they promote their webpages.

[21:45] There are over 500 on-demand educational videos, almost 100 different special offers from brands in the industry on the Sola Pro app.

[23:22] Ashley talks about SolaGenius.

[27:34] Ashley discusses the calendar on SolaGenius.

[29:47] Listen as Ashley talks about the Book Now feature.

[32:25] Switching to SolaGenius using the White Glove Service takes the stress out of changing platforms.

[35:13] Steven has over 500 clients on his books.

[35:56] SolaGenius sends you a message once a client checks out to ask if you want to add notes on the client.

[38:18] Steven speaks about how he keeps his backbar and retail stocked.

[39:53] Ashley likes to have her products ordered and delivered.

[40:39] Jennie discusses BeautyHive with their real-time inventory.

[42:05] Ashley speaks about her first shopping experience using BeautyHive.

[45:59] Steven shares how he stays up on his education while running his barbershop.

[48:35] Jennie speaks about the new Sola Sessions virtual experience.

[49:09] How do you track what you need to order for your retail bar?

[50:50] “How did you find Sola?”

[52:54] Thank you so much for being on the show!

Stay Connected

Connect with Steven

@mrwrencuts

Ashely White

@ashleywhitestudio

51. Rocking Your Retail Systems with Ashley Lantz Mar 17, 2021

Let’s talk retail! We brought Ashley Lantz, 2018 Faces of Sola and the queen of paying her rent in retail, back on the Sola Stories podcast to talk about how she uses retail to positively impact her bottom line.

Listen as Ashley discusses how leaning into the tools provided by Sola, like SolaGenius and BeautyHive, have helped her retail business grow. Ashley says that retail is not only a way to increase your revenue, but is critical to creating a well-rounded, positive experience for your guests.

Tune in to hear Jennie and Ashley discuss setting up systems for retail success, how to sell without being “salesy” and how to use KPIs to set your retail goals and make more informed purchasing decisions.

Have you heard the buzz about BeautyHive? Ashley talking about her first experience shopping on BeautyHive, how easy the site was to navigate and why she can’t wait to order again.

In This Episode

[01:28] Welcome to the show, Ashley!

[01:55] Ashley shares a little about herself and when she first leased her studio.

[05:45] Ashley discusses how leaning into the tools provided by Sola has helped her business grow.

[08:29] Ashley believes that retail is very important to her business; she pays her rent with revenue she makes from retail.

[11:48] Retail is a way to enhance the experience of your guest.

[13:44] Sales fuels education. Education fuels sales.

[16:03] How do you position the consultation for that retail recommendation at the end?

[19:01] Ashley treats retail like she is a doctor, so she prescribes products to them and lets them know how it will help them maintain their look created in the salon.

[21:28] Ashley talks about the importance of your average ticket.

[24:23] Why do you believe it’s so important to sell retail to your guests?

[27:01] Jennie shares an experience she had at a salon during the pandemic.

[31:05] Ashley talks about using BeautyHive and what her experience was.

[34:19] Everything Sola creates is meant to solve a problem for our beauty professionals.

[36:51] How do you use data from SolaGenius to help you make purchasing decisions?

[38:33] You can track all your inventory through SolaGenius.

[40:04] Thank you for listening!

Stay Connected

Connect with Jennie

Connect with Ashley

@ashleylantzhair

50. Understanding Your Sola Business Mar 10, 2021

On this audio blog, we're reading Understanding Your Sola Business.

Are you trying to set new goals to help your business grow? Knowing and understanding your numbers are the fastest way to make positive changes that impact your bottom line. To see significant growth in your business, you need to understand the parts of your business that show whether you are meeting or exceeding your guests' expectations, improving guests' loyalty, and increasing your overall revenue.

What are KPIs and what do they do? KPIs, or “Key Performance Indicators,” take the guesswork out of prioritizing what you should work on. Like a mirror to show you your strengths and opportunities for growth, KPIs guide you in setting clear and realistic goals and knowing if and when you’ve reached them.

Three KPIs you should be tracking are:

Total clientele
Frequency of visit
Average amount spent per client

Listen as we break each one down and how to use them to your advantage.

In This Episode

[00:33] Tune in as we read ‘Understanding Your Sola Business' from the Sola blog.

[01:00] What numbers should I look at?

[01:26] Assessing your business is important in so many ways.

[02:04] KPIs are key performance indicators.

[05:00] Retail dollars per guest is the average your clients spend each visit.

[07:03] Three ways to use KPIs to help you work smarter, not harder.

[08:01] Let’s talk about the service cycle.

[08:34] Booking and arrival.

[10:31] We explain service completion.

[11:49] Try SolaGenius free for 30 days to see how it can affect your business.

Stay Connected

49. Leaning Into Sola Systems with Tahesa Nelson Mar 03, 2021

Today we are talking about setting up your systems. Whether you are on the fence about going independent, a Sola newbie, or been at it for years, it’s always a good idea to pause and take a look at your systems to ensure they are set up for you to work smarter, not harder. Systems are the vehicles that are going to take you to your goals.

Our guest on this episode is a master at setting up systems to run an efficient business, and when it comes to using the tools and resources Sola has put forth, she leans in 100%. Tahesa Nelson, owner of Studio 406 Hair Salon owner in Huntsville, Alabama, specializes in color, cutting, extensions and textured hair. While she is passionate about her craft and creating an incredible client experience, she is most passionate about showing up in her role as a mom. Listen as we talk about the key systems that allow her to balance her salon and personal life to feel fulfilled behind the chair and at home with her son.

Tahesa makes it a priority to lean into all the tools Sola provides, including BeautyHive, SolaGenius and the Sola Pro app. Tahesa believes that online booking is one of the most important systems she has in place. This feature, through SolaGenius, creates a great experience for client while booking and also allows her to stay present, both while in the salon and at homem, without being bothered by incoming calls and text messages with requests to book or change appointments. If you are a new salon owner, Tahesa says the first system you should get is SolaGenius and then the Sola Pro app because they work hand in hand to increase your online presence and drive new customers to you. Tune in to hear all of Tahesa’s tips to streamline your Sola systems!

In This Episode

[02:57] Welcome to the show, Tahesa!

[03:06] Tahesa shares how she got into hairdressing and her journey to Sola.

[04:18] Tahesa says she is the mom of an eight-year-old boy and a very active parent.

[05:30] When you first went out on your own, what were the first systems you knew you needed to get in place?

[07:00] Tahesa shares how she prepares her salon inventory for a week.

[08:47] How big is your client book?

[10:40] Tahesa speaks about why she opens her books one month at a time.

[12:30] Tahesa discusses SolaGenius and how she books her personal time and merges it with her salon schedule.

[14:21] Tahesa talks about her favorite features of SolaGenius.

[15:50] When going independent, filing taxes and tracking your numbers can be one of the scariest parts.

[18:10] Online booking frees up time both in and out of the salon.

[19:16] Tahesa discusses how she stocks her backbar

[21:08] How has your experience been shopping through BeautyHive?

[22:05] Tahesa shares how the systems Sola has available saves her time so she has more time to spend with her son.

[22:43] Tahesa speaks about the system she has in place that makes it easier to be present for her son.

[24:50] Tahesa talks about homeschooling her son during the pandemic.

[25:58] What do you do to stay at the top of your craft?

[28:46] Signing up for SolaGenius is the first thing when first going independent at Sola.

[30:03] What are your goals for 2021?

[30:44] Thank you so much for being on the show!

Stay Connected

Connect with Jennie

Connect with Tahesa

@hairbytahesa

48. Setting Up Salon Sanitation Systems with Barbicide’s Leslie Roste Feb 24, 2021

When salons first shut down at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, we immediately turned to our friends at Barbicide to educate our community on how to safely return to their salon as soon as governments allowed. Barbicide’s National Director of Education, Leslie Roste, and Sola’s Kim Bennett co-hosted a webinar on sanitation best practices, and we worked alongside the Barbicide team to create a customized Back-to-Work Plan to help our independent salon owners reopen #SolaStrong. We are grateful for our ongoing partnership with Barbicide and are thrilled to welcome Leslie back to the Sola community on the Sola Stories Podcast!

Listen, as Leslie and Kim chat about setting up sanitation systems that will make your salon safety efficient and effective as you continue to navigate the pandemic and beyond. Curious on what systems should you keep and what should you leave behind? Tune in to hear Leslie and Kim answer all your burning questions and more!

Leslie also shares dialogue you can use with your clients when discussing sanitation and how to show, not just tell, them you care about their health and safety. As Leslie says, you are a service first and a luxury second.

Leslie also reminds us that you can't take care of others if you neglect taking care of yourself. Whether it’s using the 10 minutes you have while sanitizing your tools in between clients to get a drink of water, step outside to take a mask break, or simply sit down and ground yourself, taking care of yourself should be as much of a priority as taking care of your clients.

In This Episode

[01:24] Welcome to the show, Leslie!

[03:55] Kim gives her perspective when going through the first shutdown.

[05:36] Leslie speaks about some systems to put in place in your studio for your and your client's safety.

[08:09] Messaging that you are trying to do the right thing and then follow through.

[11:03] To set up your systems, go to the Covid-19 Resource Center or check out our webinars.

[11:46] Leslie discusses having new dialogue around the pandemic with your clients.

[13:34] Remember, you are a service first and luxury second.

[16:31] Kim speaks about her Barbicide recertifications.

[18:16] When you go home each night, you should feel confident you aren't taking the virus home to your family.

[20:14] Leslie shares that she got COVID, and so did her husband. Doing everything right just means you are safer, not 100% safe.

[21:35] Leslie discusses what happens when she talks to states to keep licensure in place.

[23:16] On the “2021...Now What” webinar Leslie did for Sola, she gave a checklist to make sure you are taking care of yourself.

[25:28] It takes 10 mins for your disinfectant to work, so take that 10 mins and center yourself.

[27:01] When you wear a mask, it's harder to remember to drink as much water as you should.

[29:11] Leslie believes that you should do what works best for you regarding efficiency with infection control.

[30:59] Labeling things is a great way to let people know that you have a sanitization process.

[33:42] It's the little things that say ‘I care about you.’

[36:40] Kim discusses the amazing partnership the Sola Pro app has with Barbicide.

[39:02] Leslie speaks about the new certification Barbicide is doing for 2021.

[41:13] Thank you for being on the show!

Stay Connected

Connect with Kim

@kimi_kisses

Connect with Leslie Roste

Barbicide

YouTube | Facebook

47. Quick Tip: Advice for Sola Newbies Feb 17, 2021

Listen up, Sola newbies! On this audio blog, we’re reading So you signed your lease, now what?

Since becoming a #SolaBoss comes with both triumphs and challenges, it's not uncommon to take a step back from being on cloud nine and ask, “What next?” Tune in for a list of to-dos and priorities you should focus on in the first few weeks of your new life as a Sola salon owner.

Start by leaning into the tools and resources Sola has created to help you set up and streamline your systems. Download the Sola Pro app (available on Apple App Store or Google Play) to update your own Sola webpage, access exclusive deals, education, perks, and more. Then, sign up for SolaGenius to help you run your Sola like a boss.

Don't forget to take care of your new studio's business, like getting your business license and insurance in order. We’ll also walk you through the fun parts, like creating your salon’s brand, culture and decor!

You’ll want to make sure you choose a product line and products that align with your brand (and personal) values, stock your shelves, and get your marketing plan in order so you can start filling your books right away.

Tune in to get all these invaluable tips and more! Go get ‘em, #SolaBoss.

In This Episode

[00:33] Tune in as we read ‘So you signed your lease, now what?' from the Sola blog.

[00:58] Lean into Sola tools like the Sola Pro app.

[01:09] Sign up for SolaGenius.

[01:20] Create your Sola webpage.

[01:50] Visit the Sola blog.

[01:57] Subscribe to the Sola Stories Podcast.

[02:18] Take the initiative and walk around and meet the people in your Sola community.

[03:10] Make sure you get all the business stuff taken care of.

[03:35] You get to create your salon's culture and identity.

[04:19] Listen for tips on the best way to create your brand.

[05:25] This is the fun part, choose how you want to design your studio.

[07:07] Are you ready to choose your product line and products?

[08:13] Make sure to stock your back bar and shelves with BeautyHive.

[09:01] Marketing is the key to your success.

[12:14] Thank you for listening!

Stay Connected

46. From Recovery to Thriving with Michael Cole and Steven Wren Feb 10, 2021

Financial guru Michael Cole and 2020 Faces of Sola Steven Wren teamed up to teach us four steps to embody the "Millionaire Mindset" and create a thriving, long-lasting business. Steven, owner of Steven Brandon Hair Studio in Chicago, IL, shares his journey to becoming an independent salon owner and how he makes it work in this COVID whirlwind we call. He also talks about his dreams and goal of opening his own barber school to give back and inspire the next generation of barbers.

Listen, as Michael shares strategies to create good financial habits and walks us through the four-rule “millionaire mindset.” The four-step process is:

Give yourself a raise
Pay yourself first
Pay down your debt
Spend less than you make

Steven also shares how he has specifically leaned into these tools to support his finances through the pandemic. As a salon owner, Steven has continued to bet on himself, and once he saw success, growth, and prosperity, it gave him the courage to continue moving forward with the mindset of these four rules. Steven has allowed himself to pivot and reach for his dreams, because how you handle your money is how you handle your life.

Watch the full webinar with Michael and Steven here or in the Sola Pro app.

In This Episode

[00:39] Welcome to the show, Steven!

[02:05] Steven shares his journey to Sola.

[04:46] How nerve-wracking was it to walk away from healthcare and go to barber school?

[07:09] Steven saw the potential in the beauty industry and made sure he got to know the right people to help mentor him.

[08:26] Steven discusses why he took the leap to Sola.

[10:44] Steven shares what his next steps are and his goals.

[14:31] The four-rule mindset is giving yourself a raise, paying yourself first, paying down your debt, and spending less than you make.

[15:45] What does giving yourself a raise look like to you?

[19:00] Steven discusses what paying himself first means to him.

[21:40] Steven shares how he handles debt in his life.

[23:55] Steven talks about the discipline he uses to control his spending.

[25:13] How we handle our money is how we handle our life.

[26:37] Steven speaks about what he would say to someone hesitant about leaping to work for themselves.

[28:56] Thank you for being on the show!

Stay Connected

Connect with Steven

@mrwrencuts

Michael Cole

Facebook

45. Quick Tips to Increase Client Loyalty Feb 03, 2021

Customer loyalty is arguably the most important ingredient to a long-lasting successful business. On this Quick Tip, we are reading 9 Tips For Increasing Client Loyalty from the Sola Blog.

Creating client loyalty starts by going back to the basics. You want to create a strong, trusting relationship with each client off the bat. Do this by showing gratitude, being punctual, always listening to your client’s needs and having fun. When you enjoy what you do, you give off an irresistible vibe that keeps them coming back.

Making each client feel valued goes a long way, so give them small tokens of gratitude every once in a while, like a travel-sized shampoo or hairspray. This not only makes them happy, but it gives them a sample of the products you carry, which can lead to increased retail sales.

Remember, new business is great, but don’t neglect your existing customers. Your clients that have been with you for a while have a loyalty to you that will take time to build with new clients, so keep in touch and let them know you appreciate them.

In This Episode

[00:36] Tune in to hear our 9 tips to increase client loyalty.

[01:03] New business is great, but don't neglect your existing clients.

[01:15] Tip #1 - Create strong relationships.

[02:28] Tip #2 - Say thank you.

[03:26] Tip #3 - Be prompt!

[03:58] Tip #4 - Partner with other beauty professionals.

[04:55] Tip #5 - Be consistent and predictable.

[05:40] Tip #6 - Show the love.

[06:14] Tip #7 - Keep in touch.

[07:19] Tip #8 - Listen.

[08:11] Tip #9 - Have fun!

[08:43] Thank you for listening.

Stay Connected

44. #SolaStrong Since The Early Days With Austin Campbell Jan 27, 2021

We often talk about how Sola is home to over 16,000 independent salon owners. In addition to our incredible group of beauty professionals, as a franchise brand, Sola is also made up of 160+ franchise groups who own and operate our 550+ locations across the United States, Canada and Brazil. On this episode, we dive into Sola's business model and give you a behind-the-scenes look into what makes our group of franchisees and managers so integral to the success of our community.

To introduce you to our group of franchisees and managers, we are joined by Austin Campbell, one of the very first Sola franchisees who joined the brand in 2005. Since opening his first Sola location in the La Jolla neighborhood of San Diego, Austin and his family have since opened 15 Solas all across San Diego, providing salon homes to over 600 independent salon owners.

Listen, as Austin shares why he was first inspired to join the Sola family, what motivates him to continue his Sola journey and how he ensures the Sola professional always comes first.

Austin describes how he has fostered such a strong Sola San Diego culture over the years and how the most challenging year they ever faced strengthened his community more than ever. He also discusses what makes our franchisees and managers so unique compared to other franchise brands. Austin believes that the real difference at Sola is the people.

Even after an extremely challenging year, Austin believes Sola has a very bright future. Because of that, his team has signed leases for more locations so they can continue to share the Sola Difference with beauty professionals for years to come.

In This Episode

[01:58] Welcome to the show, Austin!

[02:21] Austin shares why he decided to become a Sola franchisee.

[05:30] Austin speaks about always putting the beauty professional first.

[08:07] When did you know you were going to expand and open more than one franchise?

[11:40] Austin discusses how he has built community and culture over the years.

[14:27] Austin believes that how they reacted during COVID shows they walk the walk and stand by their people.

[17:26] The real difference at Sola is the people.

[19:53] Austin believes Sola has a very bright future, which is why he has signed leases on two more locations.

[21:52] How would you describe our community of franchisees and managers?

[25:20] Sola provides solutions to people's problems.

[26:02] What inspires you to continue on your Sola journey?

[28:58] Jennie shares how Austin and his family celebrate every new Sola pro.

[32:47] Thank you so much for being part of the Sola family.

[34:19] Thank you for listening!

Stay Connected

Connect with Austin

@solasandiego

Email Austin at Austin@solasandiego

Connect with Jennie

43. Quick Tip: How To Be A Goal-Getter Jan 20, 2021

It’s one thing to dream about all the goals you want to accomplish, and it’s another to actually get there. On this Quick Tip, we are reading How to Be a Goal-Getter This Year from the Sola Blog.

Tune in to hear Sola’s 5 steps to not only be a goal-setter but a goal-getter this year.

Start with your “why,” be SMART, hold yourself accountable, and last but not least, remember Sola has your back.

Here's to goal getting in 2021.

In This Episode

[01:10] Sola's five tips for being a goal-getter.

[01:49] Write down your goals.

[02:17] Be SMART: Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic and Specific.

[03:53] Hold yourself accountable.

[04:36] Remember that Sola has your back.

[05:57] Thank you for listening!

Stay Connected

42. How Sola Helped Her Dream Again with Annie Hayes Jan 12, 2021

As we turn the page to a new year, there's one thing we know for sure, this past year threw us all some curveballs, and yet it also provided many people the opportunity to pause, pivot and proceed forward on a new path. At Sola, we want to provide a fresh start for those searching for a new salon home.

Our guest on this episode, Annie Hayes from Jacksonville, Florida, opened her own Sola studio in May 2020 after being furloughed by her previous salon. Since then, Sola has helped her get back on her feet and turn her career dreams into her career reality. We wanted to bring Annie on the Sola Stories podcast to share her story and help anyone out there who needs a bit of inspiration to dream again.

Listen as Annie shares her journey from her start in the hair industry to going independent and opening up her Sola studio amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. Annie talks about building her book of business before and after going Sola, the tools and resources she’s used to create a seamless transition to salon ownership, and why she says it’s the best decision she has ever made for her career.

In This Episode

[02:10] Welcome to the show, Annie!

[04:23] Annie speaks about getting started in her career.

[05:46] How did the COVID-19 closures affect your career?

[07:38] Annie discusses looking for options when salons were able to reopen and why she chose Sola.

[11:39] Annie chats about being furloughed from Ulta.

[13:54] Annie speaks about getting new clients because of her private, one-on-one salon suite and how every one of her clients followed her.

[14:43] Annie talks about her most powerful marketing tool to build her book of business, Instagram.

[16:23] Jennie talks about the power of hashtags.

[18:17] Annie talks about her clients pre-booking more since the shutdown.

[22:36] Annie discusses opening her Sola studio during the pandemic.

[24:50] Annie speaks about having the bare minimum in her studio when she opened.

[26:15] What did Sola do to help you get started?

[29:11] Jennie shares some things that Sola has to help you open your studio, the podcast, a blog, and much more.

[30:10] Annie talks about the Sola tools and resources she’s leaned into to start her Sola journey.

[32:06] Annie discusses her dreams for 2021 and what she would like to see happen with her salon in the coming year.

[35:05] Thank you for being on the show!

Stay Connected

Connect with Annie

@_anniehayes_

Connect with Jennie

41. All Things Sola Education with Melissa Bennett + Jennie Wolff Jan 06, 2021

At Sola, education and support is at the heart of our brand promise. With the start of the new year, we want to shine a light on some of the amazing education available for independent beauty professionals through Sola education.

Our guest on this episode, Melissa Bennett, truly puts the “Pro” in Sola Pro. She has led the charge with our Sola-exclusive Sola Pro app and worked with hundreds of brand partners to curate video content, webinars, Facebook Lives, Instagram takeovers, and much more virtual education for the Sola community. She is also the executional mastermind behind the Sola Sessions and has planned 11 amazing events for Sola across the country.

Tune in to hear Melissa and Jennie discuss the importance of education in our industry, how Sola education has evolved over the years, and what the future looks like for education for the Sola community and beyond.

If you have an idea for a topic you’d like us to cover, a brand you’d like added to Sola Pro, or an educator you think would be valuable to our community, email Melissa at melissa@solasalonstudios.com.

In This Episode

[03:08] Welcome to the show, Melissa!

[03:40] Melissa shares her role at Sola and how it has evolved over the years.

[05:32] Melissa speaks about building the Sola Pro app.

[08:23] Jennie discusses the magical experience the first Sola Session was in 2016.

[11:34] Jennie speaks about how important education has always been for Sola.

[12:59] Melissa shares some education initiatives that she has worked on for Sola.

[15:26] They discuss how important responding to the surveys they send out is to improve Sola education.

[18:52] Melissa shares how Sola has strived to bring important content to the community, even though COVID.

[20:36] Jennie speaks about the back to work program Melissa put together with Barbicide.

[22:59] Melissa discusses the Sola Pro refresh project.

[26:00] Do you feel there are any gaps in what Sola Pro is offering? Anything you would like to see?

[29:09] Melissa speaks about how she feels education can help individuals stay in the industry longer.

[33:11] Thank you so much for being on the show!

Stay Connected

Connect with @jenniethewolff

Email Melissa

40. What 2020 Taught Us Dec 29, 2020

It’s been a year of unexpected challenges, but also a year of tremendous opportunity for those who have taken the time to learn and grow through it all. For our last episode of 2020, the team behind the Sola Stories Podcast wanted to connect to reflect on the lessons this monumental, transformative year has taught us.

Listen as Jennie, Kim and Angela share how they pivoted during 2020, both professionally and personally, the lessons they learned about relinquishing control, and how they’ve overcome the hardest moments of this pandemic. They talk about the changes they have gone through over the year and what they are looking forward to carrying with them into 2021.

After the conversation is over, keep listening to hear some amazing reviews the Sola Stories podcast has received over the last year. Remember, if you like what you’ve been hearing, please leave a review and you may hear yours read on a future episode of Sola Stories!

In This Episode

[01:34] Jennie Wolff, Kim Bennett and Angela Ribbler - thank you for joining us all as we wrap up this year with reflections and lessons.

[03:32] Kim shares how she has had to pivot this year.

[06:20] Angela speaks about the ways she has learned to pivot during the pandemic.

[09:13] Jennie chats about some pivots she has had to make in her personal life.

[10:33] Angela talks about how planning didn’t work this last year, but things turned out great anyway.

[11:41] Kim discusses how she handled the changes on a personal level as a single mother.

[14:50] What lessons about relinquishing control have you learned that you will take into 2021 with you?

[17:57] Angela shares the biggest thing she has learned about relinquishing control.

[19:55] Jennie speaks about waiting to have a baby for the perfect time and what she learned this year.

[22:08] Kim chats about what was hardest for her during the pandemic.

[24:43] Angela shares the hardest part of 2020 was for her.

[27:13] Jennie has taken 2020 to learn to find stillness in her life.

[28:08] Kim discusses having the opportunity to move into her new house.

[32:14] Angela speaks about her new puppy she got in 2020.

[34:27] Kim, have you learned anything about being more present this year?

[37:53] Angela learned that her worth isn’t based on productivity.

[39:56] Jennie shares what she has learned about self-worth this year.

[41:56] Angela talks about all the projects she gives herself to fill her time instead of enjoying the stillness.

[44:42] Kim discusses how the Sola community has helped her in the last year.

[47:32] Kim says that the entire community became visionaries together during the pandemic.

[49:12] Angela, how did you lean on the community and gain strength through them during 2020?

[55:32] Happy New Year from everyone at Sola!

[56:10] Listen as they share some amazing reviews the podcast has received.

Stay Connected

Connect with Angela

@angelaribbler

Connect with Kim

@kimi_kisses

Connect with Jennie

39. The Best Art Starts with Heart with Terri Cowan Dec 22, 2020

Terri Cowan, inspirational speaker and owner of Professional Salon Concepts, believes success starts with excellent customer service. In this episode of Sola Stories, Terri and Kim chat about the systems you need to set up to create an A+ customer experience that will bring your salon and customer retention to the next level.

Terri also talks about the importance of eye contact when it comes to customer service. “Customer service is creating that absolute connection,” and you can’t do that if you are focused on your screen or thinking of your next client instead of giving your current guest your utmost attention and care.

Listen as Terri discusses the benefits of offering a limited-service menu during your busiest times of the year in order to maximize your efficiency and still maintain a high-quality customer experience. Terri also shares some dialogue to get your clients to get back in the salon more frequently and feel comfortable while in your chair.

Terri believes that when you love your job, it shows, so get out there and show your guests that you love what you do.

In This Episode

[03:01] Welcome to the show, Terri!

[05:44] Terri shares some ways you can enhance customer service and systems.

[08:05] Terri speaks about people enhancements and making sure you are at the top of your game.

[09:01] How do you enhance your facilities, and what is your safety pledge and systems?

[11:17] Terri believes that people under 40 are lost in their screens instead of looking people in the eyes.

[12:47] Terri shares that it’s very hard to deliver customer service when you don’t know how to honor or pay respect to the people around you.

[16:08] Terri says you need to know your shortcomings and remember to take a temperature read of your guests when they come in for their appointments.

[18:12] Terri speaks about losing her mom this year.

[20:13] “Customer service is creating that absolute connection.”

[23:20] Terri gives examples of how human contact is so important in customer service.

[26:17] Terri worries about individuals that don’t think they need to have a professional personal relationship.

[28:28] Listen, as Terri shares a safety pledge she believes you should have in place so that your guests know they are safe.

[33:26] Terri chats about this being the busiest season for salons; she thinks people should offer a limited menu of services because of sanitizing for COVID-19.

[36:10] What dialogue would you use to get your clients to come in more often?

[38:59] Terri says that for retention, you need to find out why they are not returning.

[41:10] Terri speaks about what she loves the most about the Sola culture.

[43:43] What are you reading right now?

[45:17] Terri shares what living the life you love means to her.

[47:33] Do you miss singing for an audience?

[50:28] If you like your job, show it in your face and what you do.

[51:53] Kim shares what her mentor Terri told her that made her a better presenter, better hairdresser, and better at Sola.

[54:29] Thank you for being on the show!

Stay Connected

www.professionalsalonconcepts.com

Connect with Terri

Connect with Kim

@kimi_kisses

38. How To Pivot with Purpose with Alexa Carlin Dec 15, 2020

At Sola, it’s our mission to inspire not only successful beauty professionals but successful entrepreneurs. While we love connecting with inspiring leaders within the beauty industry, many of the most successful people know, the best way to stay on the cutting edge of your career is to learn from leaders outside of your industry and apply their successful habits and learnings to your world.

Our guest on this episode, Alexa Rose Carlin, is an entrepreneur extraordinaire and has not only built her own personal brand, which includes an online following of over 200K but through her company, Women Empower X, Alexa also inspires thousands of other female entrepreneurs around the globe to find their own entrepreneurial success. Alexa founded WEX with the mission to help more women pursue their passions and get to the next level in their careers and life.

Tune in to hear Alexa share how to pivot with purpose to continue moving forward in the direction of your dreams when life throws you unexpected curveballs. Alexa believes that if you share your vulnerabilities, you invite others to do the same, which creates a unique, personal connection to your clients that will foster better client retention.

In this episode, Alexa also discusses how to successfully build a personal brand and how to overcome overwhelm when starting something new.

In This Episode

[04:06] Welcome to the show, Alexa!

[04:47] Alexa views an entrepreneur as anyone passionate and determined to turn an idea into a reality.

[06:14] Where did you find the confidence to start again after experiencing failure?

[08:17] Alexa talks about pivoting with purpose.

[11:11] Alexa believes there are so many ways to empower women, even though it may look different from what you thought.

[13:50] Alexa shares that she gets ideas from other industries, not just from the industry you are in.

[15:50] Community is so important because it can help you grow your business.

[17:29] Alexa believes that if you can get to the root of your vulnerabilities and get them out, you allow others to do the same.

[19:52] Alexa discusses sharing her journey battling her autoimmune disease on social media and how her authentic vulnerability helped her following grow.

[23:22] We don’t have control over the pandemic, so focus on what you do have control over.

[25:01] Why does your brand focus on women entrepreneurs instead of all entrepreneurs?

[28:55] Alexa says that the more you give, the more will flow back to you.

[30:52] Alexa speaks about the advantage women have as business owners.

[32:56] Angela shares a funny story about posting her first Instagram.

[34:21] How do you define your personal brand?

[37:24] Angela discusses creating authentic relationships with your clients and how they follow your journey on social media.

[40:13] Alexa speaks about what she looks for on a social media account to follow.

[42:06] Alexa discusses how to overcome overwhelm when building your brand on social media.

[45:05] With so many social media platforms out there, how do you know where to put your energy?

[48:23] Know yourself, know your brand, know your customers and put your energy where you will get the most return on your investment.

[51:00] Alexa’s last words of inspiration are - above all, trust in the journey and understand that it only takes one thing to transform your business and life for the better.

[52:48] Thank you for being on the show!

Stay Connected

Connect with Alexa

Connect with Angela

37. Focusing Your Lens on Success with Joey Figueiredo Dec 08, 2020

Our guest on this episode of Sola Stories, Joey Figueiredo, comes to us from Prairie Village, Kansas. Before he was a hairdresser, he was a professional photographer, and while growing his career behind the camera, he fell in love with the world of hairdressing. After obtaining his license through an apprenticeship in Kansas City, he continued to explore his passions outside the salon, landing gigs and working behind the scenes at Fashion Week, and so much more. Joey is a successful salon owner of a double-sized studio, an educator,one of our 2019 Faces of Sola.

On this episode, Joey shares his journey from a photographer to a Sola studio owner. He discusses how his photography background has helped him in the marketing and styling aspects of his career. Joey also shares his view on selling retail and why he became an educator for EVO.

Listen, as Joey discusses raising his prices and how he makes sure his clients’ experience matches his price tag. He speaks about the hand painting technique he developed to cover grey called Greyage and how he is always afraid of failing, but it doesn’t keep him from pursuing his dreams.

In This Episode

[01:18] Welcome to the show, Joey!

[01:55] Joey discusses why he became a photographer.

[04:15] Listen as Joey shares his career journey.

[07:39] Joey says it took him two years to get through his apprenticeship, which is about double the hours of going to school.

[08:31] Joey shares how he found his way to Sola.

[11:26] Did you move into a double studio right away?

[13:35] He can double book during the pandemic because he has two chairs six feet apart.

[14:51] Joey discusses how his photography background is an advantage in the beauty industry.

[16:50] During his stay at home order, Joey researched new social media content strategies.

[18:09] Joey shares his view on selling retail products.

[20:04] How did you end up as an educator?

[23:10] Joey says being an independent business owner allows him to chase his other interests like being an educator.

[25:35] How do you know when it’s time to give yourself a raise?

[27:19] Joey discusses how raising his prices has affected his business.

[28:52] “Your service and your experience have to match your price tag.”

[29:37] Joey says that he raises his prices every year.

[30:07] How does the client experience in your studio match your prices?

[31:42] Joey talks about going to a Schwarzkopf mentorship program.

[33:27] Joey shares the hand painting technique he does, Greyage.

[36:00] Have you ever been afraid of failing?

[37:24] Thank you so much for being on the show!

Stay Connected

Connect with Joey

@stylistjoey

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36. Quick Tip: Hashing out Hashtags with Angela Ribbler + Jennie Wolff Dec 01, 2020

On this marketing Quick Tip, Angela and Jennie team up to chat all about hashtags and how this powerful, and often under-utilized, tool can take your social media marketing to a whole new level.

A hashtag is a word or phrase following a hash sign (#) on social media platforms (primarily Instagram and Twitter) to discover content on a specific topic. Angela says hashtags are like mini “filing cabinets” for your content. When you click on a linked hashtag in a caption, it allows you to see all sorts of content that's related to that topic. When used correctly, it allows people who are interested in that topic to find you and your content. Hashtags should be used in relevant and specific ways, so listen as Angela and Jennie share tips to help you gain a following, and more importantly, new clients, solely by getting a better handle on hashtags.

Hashtags are free to use and a very powerful marketing tool when done correctly, but they can backfire if done wrong. Angela shares what shadow banning is, how you can avoid it, and how to research to ensure the hashtags you choose are getting you the best results possible.

In This Episode

[00:51] Welcome back to the show, Angela!

[01:37] Angela shares the power of hashtags.

[04:21] How should a beauty professional use hashtags?

[05:44] Listen as Angela shares why a small business or salon should have their own hashtag.

[07:16] Angela speaks about what your hashtag should be.

[10:09] Start by researching other people with similar specialties in a similar area if they have a large following.

[12:22] Use relevant and specific hashtags.

[15:02] How do hashtags help people gain a following?

[17:45] Make sure your profile is public and think about promoting your hashtag.

[20:08] Angela shares a few more tips when using hashtags.

[21:33] Angela believes hashtags are free advertising, which is why she believes they are one of the most powerful tools in marketing.

[23:40] Angela explains what shadow banning is.

[26:07] Don't hashtag everything; use them in relevant ways.

[27:31] Thank you for listening!

Stay Connected

Connect with Angela

@angelaribbler

Connect with Jennie

35. The Magic of Gratitude with Amanda Fagan & Steven Wren Nov 24, 2020

“Gratitude unlocks the fullness of life. It turns what we have into enough and more.” Even though it has been a challenging year on so many levels, we want to spend some time to focus on gratitude and silver linings. 2020 Faces of Sola Steven Wren and 2018 Faces of Sola Amanda Fagan are two of the most positive people we know, so we wanted to bring them back onto the Sola Stories Podcast to share how they have been able to stay grounded in gratitude throughout this pandemic.

Amanda believes that practicing gratitude not only makes her feel good, but throughout this year has become integral to her survival. And while gratitude doesn’t always come easy, especially during a global pandemic, these positivity pros share how they have made it a habit to actively practice gratitude every single day.

Listen as Jennie, Amanda and Steven talk about silver linings and how they plan to stay positive through the holidays, even though their holiday celebrations will look much different this year. They also share their ideas for showing the love to their clients and how they have learned to savor every moment and find meaning and joy in the simple things.

In This Episode

[01:26] Welcome to the show, Steven and Amanda.

[03:26] Amanda speaks about how she has been able to find positivity this last year.

[05:08] Amanda talks about processing grief and feelings that have resurfaced during this pandemic.

[06:06] Steven discusses how he stays positive during this crazy year.

[09:38] Steven speaks about focusing on what he is grateful for.

[10:38] Amanda says that practicing gratitude is part of her survival.

[13:32] “Gratitude unlocks the fullness of life. It turns what we have into enough and more.”

[14:11] Steven shares why he believes gratitude is so important.

[14:28] Amanda believes gratitude is important because it creates a frame to look out into life with.

[17:21] Amanda shares that journaling and writing are her go-to ways to practice gratitude.

[18:45] Steven starts his day by staying away from negativity.

[22:14] Steven speaks about the silver linings he sees because of the pandemic.

[24:51] Listen as Steven shares how his perspective has changed about taking time off.

[25:11] Amanda sees the silver lining in how connected everyone is through social media and reinventing her business from now on.

[28:24] “Forced stillness is the only way growth ever happens.”

[30:14] Steven discusses how his family is staying positive this holiday season.

[32:37] Amanda shares their approach to positivity during the holidays.

[36:00] Amanda will decorate her studio this holiday and show gratitude for her clients by savoring every moment they have together.

[38:29] Steven agrees with Amanda; he also wants to savor every moment he has with his guests.

[38:56] Steven shares a story about a client he has been cutting hair for the last 12 years.

[41:50] Jennie speaks about some ways you can show the love to your clients.

[44:27] Thank you for being on the show!

Stay Connected

Connect with Steven

@mrwrencuts

Connect with Amanda

@amandainreverie

Connect with Jennie

34. Setting Boundaries to Avoid Burnout with Dawn Bradley Nov 17, 2020

Our guest on this episode of Sola Stories is Canadian business coach, Dawn Bradley. Dawn has been in the beauty industry for nearly two decades and spent the last ten years as a business owner. Through her coaching business, Dawn hosts tons of classes and online courses, including “Become a 6-Figure Hairstylist Stress-Free” and “Raise Your Prices Like a Pro.” She also hosts her own podcast called The Anxious Creative. We’ve previously had the honor to partner with Dawn for some Sola-exclusive education on How To Set Back to Work Boundaries, and we are thrilled to bring her on to the Sola Stories Podcast to discuss how to work smarter, not harder, set boundaries, avoid burnout, raise your prices, and live a balanced life as a small business owner.

Listen, as Dawn shares her journey into the beauty industry and why she made the brave decision to go out on her own, even though she was repeatedly told that she wouldn't make it. She discusses how to overcome the fear of raising your prices and how to stay financially fluid without double booking clients.

Tune in to hear Dawn’s five key points to communicating change and how to successfully set boundaries that will help you get through the holiday season without burning out. Dawn believes that a lack of boundaries does not equal excellent customer service. “Boundaries aren't slamming a door in someone's face. It's telling them you can't enter here, but you can come through this other door.”

In This Episode

[01:26] Welcome to the show, Dawn!

[02:43] Dawn shares her story and her journey into the beauty industry.

[04:28] Dawn speaks about why she went out on her own.

[06:07] "People don't like it when you step outside of their comfort zone."

[07:36] Listen as Dawn discusses when and why she started educating on setting boundaries.

[09:44] Dawn shares that your lack of boundaries does not equal excellent customer service.

[13:43] Do you crave balance? Do you feel like it is a constant struggle?

[16:12] Dawn discusses the rollercoaster of emotions she had when her dog died and she took time off to reevaluate her business and goals.

[18:10] Dawn has rebuilt her clientele multiple times in the last five or six years.

[20:05] Listen as Dawn speaks about overcoming the fear of raising your prices.

[23:16] How do stylists stay prosperous without double booking?

[27:04] Dawn believes we are learning through this pandemic the importance of personal connection.

[28:20] Dawn discusses her morning Instagram Live series called Business, Breakfast, and Bedheads.

[30:57] Creating a community has to be intentional.

[32:51] Dawn speaks about the struggles she is seeing her clients and peers facing right now.

[35:41] Dawn discusses her five key points of communicating change.

[39:16] How can an independent salon owner get through this end of the year craze without facing burnout?

[42:38] Boundaries aren't slamming a door in someone's face. It's telling them you can't enter here, but you can come through this other door.

[44:25] Dawn talks about The Anxious Creative podcast.

[46:03] Thank you for being on the show!

Stay Connected

Connect with Dawn

@dawnbradleyhair

Connect with Jennie

33. How To Be a Content Queen with Angela Ribbler Nov 10, 2020

On this episode of Sola Stories, we are talking about all things social media, and who better to have on the show than Sola’s Social Media and Content Strategist, or as we like to call her our Content Queen, Angela Ribbler. Angela joined the Sola team in August 2018 after working 5 years in the music industry. It was her thirst for more creativity in her job that led her to Sola and today, she is the creative brain behind Sola’s blog, social media content, email newsletters, and so much more. It was also her passion that led to the creation of Sola Stories podcast!

Tune in to this episode to get tips from this social media savant to help grow your business. Angela shares her insights about each social media platform - from Facebook to Instagram to TikTok - and how to utilize and create content for each to maximize your goals and objectives.

Angela also shares valuable tips like how to write a compelling caption, how to take a great Instagram photo and advice for social media beginners. She even shares some secret tips to get your content shared on Sola’s social media!

If you’re looking to up your salon’s social media game, this episode will turn your social not-working into successful social networking in no time 💯

In This Episode

[01:50] Welcome to the show, Angela!

[03:07] Angela shares her background and journey to Sola.

[05:54] Jennie speaks about all the things Angela is involved in behind-the-scenes at Sola.

[06:58] Angela discusses why she loves social media.

[09:33] Jennie says that she loves tools like Instagram Stories and how social media is like a stage.

[11:36] Angela shares her favorite social media platforms.

[15:06] Listen as Angela discusses which social media platform is the best one for you to grow your business.

[17:38] Jennie and Angela speak about how important Facebook is when it comes to search engine optimization.

[19:05] Angela shares her insights on Instagram and how it serves as a visual look book.

[22:10] Angela speaks about TikTok and why she likes this platform.

[24:43] The most important thing is to be where your customers are.

[25:39] What do you think the components are of a great post?

[28:46] Angela shares how you can create a content strategy based on what your objectives are.

[30:08] Angela speaks about what makes a great photo.

[33:40] Test out different areas of your studio and see which area takes the best photos.

[36:15] Angela shares some hacks for writing good captions.

[38:56] Inspiration can strike at any time, so keep a notebook to write down captions you might use on those days you face writer’s block.

[41:01] Listen as Angela discusses what someone should do if they want to capture her attention to be featured on Sola’s social media.

[42:57] The best hashtag you can use is #solasalons or to tag @solasalons in your posts .

[44:20] Angela gives her best advice for someone just starting out on social media.

[46:31] Don't let the fear of trying something new keep you from doing it.

[47:08] Find Sola blogs at www.solasalonstudios.com/blog.

[48:15] Thank you for listening!

Stay Connected

Connect with Angela

@angelaribbler

Connect with Jennie

32. Yelp Quick Tips with Lindsey Couch Nov 05, 2020

Today we are excited to have Lindsey Couch, one of our 2020 Faces of Sola, on the show to share some quick tips about marketing your salon on Yelp. Lindsey is a big Yelp advocate and believes many salon owners are missing opportunities if you aren’t leaning into the powerful, free marketing from Yelp.

Tune in to hear Lindsey talk about how she got started with Yelp, how her salon made it to the number 3 position in her city, and how many new clients she gets each week from Yelp while spending $0 on Yelp advertising. She always shares tips for anyone who is ready to get started setting up your Yelp page for the first time.

Still not sure if Yelp is right for you? Lindsey talks about how to overcome that fear of that dreaded negative review and why they aren’t as scary as you may think. Lindsey believes that if you are doing a good service and giving your clients 100% of yourself, there is no reason to be afraid to put yourself out on Yelp and miss out on all the positive benefits of the platform.

In This Episode

[01:04] Welcome to the show, Lindsey!

[01:49] Lindsey shares why she is a Yelp advocate.

[02:49] Listen, as Lindsey speaks about how Arrow Salon got to be the number three position on Yelp.

[04:00] How many reviews do you have on Yelp?

[04:33] Lindsey discusses why people are afraid of being on Yelp.

[06:50] Jennie believes that a positive review far outweighs the downside of a negative review.

[09:36] Lindsey speaks about using Yelp as a consumer and says that she looks at the pictures more than the reviews.

[10:49] What do you have control of on your Yelp page, and what parts of your Yelp page do your clients control?

[11:44] Lindsey says they are getting four to five new client inquiries a week from Yelp.

[13:51] Lindsey talks about what they have on their Yelp page about their salon to get people's attention during this pandemic.

[14:23] Lindsey shares her tips for someone who is getting started on Yelp.

[15:55] If you know you are doing good service, don't be afraid of Yelp reviews.

[17:01] Thank you for being on the show!

Stay Connected

Connect with Jennie

Connect with Lindsey

@thehungryhairdresser

31. From Thirsty to Thriving with Morgan Abernathy Oct 27, 2020

Full-spectrum colorist and 2020 Faces of Sola, Morgan Abernathy, has truly created a career that spans the spectrum of the beauty industry. She has gone from being told she wasn’t good enough to ever be a “great hairdresser,” to owning her own salon, educating for brands like Pulp Riot, Brazilian Bond Builder and Colortrak, and has grown an Instagram following of nearly 50K followers. But beyond all of her aspirational accomplishments, what we love most about Morgan is the fact that she is always authentic, wholehearted and unapologetically herself.

Tune in to this inspirational episode of Sola Stories to hear Morgan share how she went from being homeless and living in her car, to being the flourishing owner of her salon, Colored in Chaos.

Listen, as Morgan discusses how she grew her social media following and her advice to overcome writer’s block and nail that perfect Instagram caption.

In This Episode

[01:20] Thank you so much for joining us on the show, Morgan!

[01:35] Morgan shares her background and her start in the hair industry.

[03:21] Morgan speaks about being homeless during beauty school.

[06:53] How did you climb out of the hole you fell into while being homeless?

[10:47] Morgan discusses the excitement of opening up her Sola studio and how she had the confidence to go out independently.

[13:00] She shares that it took about two years to create the culture and vibe she wanted in her salon.

[14:15] How did you build your book of business?

[16:47] Morgan shares some tips for anyone wanting to build their business using social media.

[20:45] Morgan speaks about using models for her photos and using those for her Instagram posts.

[22:54] Morgan says that she is a night owl and uses her evenings to post to social media.

[24:36] How do you get over your anxiety when posting on social media?

[27:51] Morgan shares how she came up with chaos as her brand.

[30:45] Morgan says that being in a Sola studio allows her to be independent, creative and true to herself.

[33:29] Listen as Morgan shares some advice for hairdressers wanting to start out on their own.

[35:23] Thank you so much for being on the show!

Stay Connected

Connect with Jennie

Connect with Morgan

@colored.in.chaos

30. Learning Through Love with Geno Stampora Oct 20, 2020

To fully span the extent of Geno Stampora’s impressive career in the beauty industry, we’d need a much longer podcast. Before becoming the successful owner of multiple salons and beauty academies, as well as one of the most celebrated and sought-after motivational speakers in the industry, Geno learned first-hand what it meant to be successful working behind the chair. Geno will tell you himself, he’s not the best hairdresser in the industry, but his inept ability to understand people is what has kept his career thriving for decades. We are thrilled to bring this vivacious industry expert, mentor and true friend to the Sola family, onto the Sola Stories podcast.

Listen, as Geno speaks about the skills you need to create meaningful connections with your clients, as well as three invaluable pieces of advice for salon owners to ensure your career continues to grow and evolve with the times.

Geno believes that the beauty industry is a blank slate, “a place where we can recreate the future and actually recreate the way we are seen in and actually do business.” Tune in for this conversation that will keep you on the edge of your seat and on the cutting edge of your career.

In This Episode

[00:57] Thank you so much for joining us on the show, Geno!

[01:43] Geno shares how he fell into the beauty industry.

[04:10] Geno speaks about the practice of giving 100%, 100% of the time.

[05:42] Listen as Geno discusses how he gained the skill to connect with everyone he meets.

[07:16] After being an educator for 35 years, Geno believes in the beauty industry and says that “everyone can be and do what they want to be and do.”

[09:11] What were your biggest takeaways from the Nashville Sola Sessions?

[12:55] Geno shares the advice he would give Sola professionals at this point in time.

[15:00] Geno believes this is a great time of learning.

[17:08] Listen as Geno discusses what he wants every salon owner to brush up on during this time of COVID.

[19:38] Geno speaks about the problems people have with communication.

[21:55] Kim shares how she set her salon up so that guests could see that she was sanitizing and keeping everyone safe.

[23:01] Geno says that we are in a “blank slate where we can recreate the future and actually recreate the way we are seen in and actually do business.”

[23:44] What would you say to a new entrepreneur coming to Sola for the first time?

[26:59] Geno speaks about how to give back to the industry.

[29:25] The answer is to believe in yourself!

[30:52] Geno says that he is so proud of what Kim has accomplished, but he’s even prouder of what she’s going to accomplish.

[31:14] Geno shares some final words for the listeners.

[32:42] Thank you for being on the Sola Stories Podcast!

Stay Connected

Connect with Kim

@kimi_kisses

Connect with Geno

@genostampora

29. Quick Tip: Holiday Marketing with a 2020 Twist Oct 13, 2020

On this Sola Stories Quick Tip, we're helping you get a jumpstart on your holiday marketing. Tune in to get all of our best holiday marketing tips and tricks for salon owners, because no matter what 2020 brought, you can still cross this year's finish line with a bang.

Before you begin your marketing, and especially before the holidays are here, make sure to jot down all the important dates during the holiday season so you don’t miss a valuable holiday marketing opportunity. You can find a list of all the important holiday dates here.

For most beauty professionals, the holiday season is the busiest and most profitable time of the year. It's a time when you will see most of your clientele, so don’t forget to send your clients reminders to book their appointments before your book fills up! And when your guests arrive at your salon, transport them into a winter wonderland with decorations and holiday specials that will put them in the mood for some extra holiday spending. You can easily do this with a festive retail display that showcases your products, holiday gift sets and gift cards.

This has been a crazy year and your clients will appreciate the little things you do to help them have a relaxing, cheerful experience in your salon.

Looking for more holiday tips? Check out this article on the Sola blog.

In This Episode

[00:26] Welcome to the show!

[01:12] Jennie shares some dates you should consider for holiday promotions.

[02:24] Jennie speaks about getting your salon in the holiday spirit.

[03:47] Don't forget the stocking stuffers!

[04:12] Jennie discusses some add-on services that can add to your bottom line and make your guests' lives easier during the busy holiday season.

[04:45] Vow to spread a little love and light this year by involving your clients in a clothing, gift, or food drive.

[05:18] Jennie shares how to get the word out on the special offers you have available.

[05:58] Give your clients some incentives if they book for 2021.

[06:23] Happy Holidays!

Stay Connected

Connect with Jennie

28. Healing Through Hair with Breast Cancer Thriver, Barbara Violo Oct 06, 2020

We are thrilled to bring our special guest and Breast Cancer Thriver, Barbara Violo, onto the Sola Stories podcast. Barbara owns a hair and wig studio in Sola in Long Island, New York. Barbara’s studio is a safe haven for women experiencing hair loss, primarily due to cancer as well as other causes. In her studio, she takes her clients on a journey - from shaving their heads to hair recovery and beyond. Barbara’s client experience is all about the peaceful, healing energy she is able to create for her clients, whether it’s the fresh flowers she brings from her garden every morning or the bright, vibrant colors on her wall.

In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness month, we wanted to bring Barbara on the Sola Stories Podcast to share her journey as both a breast cancer survivor and tell us about the unique niche she has created in her Sola studio. Listen to hear Barbara share her beautiful, thoughtful process creating the perfect wig for each of her clients.

Because Barbara has the only wig studio in her Sola location, she is the go-to person if any of her Sola neighbors have a client with thinning hair. She started her Sola business in her 50s and has been able to build a thriving book of business. Listen to this inspirational woman, stylist and wig connoisseur as she talks about the passion she has for helping and healing women.

In This Episode

[01:22] Thank you so much for joining us on the show!

[01:56] Barbara shares her journey into cosmetology.

[04:35] Barbara discusses why she transitioned from cuts, colors, and perms into the niche markets she now serves.

[06:34] Listen as Barbara shares how much her mom and aunt enjoyed going to the wig salon and where she got her start.

[08:49] It’s a very emotional beginning of the journey for women, cancer diagnosis along with hair loss.

[12:33] Barbara speaks about why she started her wig salon at Sola.

[15:42] How do you protect your energy when doing this type of work?

[18:34] Listen as Barbara discusses her process from start to finish with her clients.

[20:49] Barbara talks about the wig studios in her area and why hers is unique.

[23:28] Having the right wig helps a woman’s confidence when fighting for her life.

[25:30] Barbara discusses the referrals she gets from other stylists at her Sola.

[27:20] Wouldn’t it be great to have a wig studio in every Sola?

[30:05] Barbara speaks about how she built a book of business in her 50s and how she keeps it growing.

[32:20] Listen as Barbara shares some words of encouragement to listeners who are going through the healing process.

[35:10] Thank you so much for joining us on the podcast today.

Stay Connected

Connect with Jennie

Connect with Barbara

@hairhealthcoach

27. How To Run Your Sola Like A Boss with Ashley Lantz Sep 29, 2020

Our guest on this episode is one of our 2018 Faces of Sola, educator, SolaGenius ambassador, and, most importantly, a new mom. Ashley Lantz has made her mark on the Sola community as a true trailblazer. She was the first person to sign a lease at her Sola location in AZ, even before there were even walls and was also one of the first to lean into Sola’s technology to supercharge her business.

Listen as Ashley shares her journey to Sola and how she’s used technology to run a more efficient business and spend more time at home with her family.

Ashley and Jennie discuss the advantages of SolaGenius and how online booking has improved her salon experience for both her and her clients. Ashley shares how SolaGenius helped her stay connected with her clients and easily communicate updates as the COVID-19 pandemic unfolded.

Stay tuned for a special offer from SolaGenius exclusively for Sola professionals. If you are ready to up level your business, you won’t want to miss this very special episode of the Sola Stories podcast.

In This Episode

[00:54] Welcome to the show, Ashley!

[01:41] Ashley shares her background and her journey into the beauty industry.

[04:26] Ashley’s ability to leap is one of her best qualities because she always goes after what she wants.

[06:13] Listen, as Ashley discusses being a new mom and a salon owner during the past year.

[08:47] Ashley speaks about focusing on her business at home instead of being a traveling educator.

[11:38] How has leaning into technology allowed you to run a more efficient business?

[13:10] Ashley shares some advantages SolaGenius provides to allow her to be on top of the business side while freeing up time to spend with her family.

[16:20] Listen as Ashley explains how technology and online booking have improved her life.

[19:02] Jennie shares how she books her appointments online and how convenient online booking is for clients.

[21:32] Ashley says that she has had many new clients come in because she has online booking and isn’t losing business when she isn’t able to answer her phone.

[23:06] How did you lean on SolaGenius during the pandemic?

[25:36] Ashley speaks about connecting with clients when they got the go-ahead to reopen.

[27:24] Jennie discusses the benefits of having the SolaGenius app and when the best time is to make the switch is.

[29:08] Ashley shares how she believes her digital welcome package has helped her make her clients feel like guests in her salon.

[32:33] Ashley loves to have people follow her on Instagram.

[33:24] What advice would you give to someone who is still using paper books on why they should switch to SolaGenius?

[34:23] Jennie shares a special offer for Sola professionals.

[34:43] Ashley shares a promo code to sign up for SolaGenius and earn $30! www.sola.glossgenius.com/invite/ashleylantz

[35:13] Jennie discusses the White Glove Service you get with SolaGenius.

[35:36] Thank you so much for being on the show!

Stay Connected

Connect with Jennie

Connect with Ashley

@ashleylantzhair

26. Creating Confidence + a Stunning Social Media Feed with Cuyler Engram Sep 22, 2020

We are thrilled to bring Houston-based hairstylist and one of our 2020 Faces of Sola, Cuyler Engram (@cuylerdidit), on the Sola Stories Podcast. Before owning his Sola salon, Cuyler honed his craft as a makeup artist for Mac Cosmetics. After facing doubters and discrimination along his path, Cuyler is now a business owner with an Instagram following of over 16K. After years of feeling like he didn’t fit in, Cuyler has created a space he can call his own, as well as a jaw-dropping Instagram feed that helps keep his salon business booming.

Listen, as Cuyler shares his journey into the beauty industry and how he’s overcome criticism and racism to harness his confidence in his craft and creativity.

Tune in to get Cuyler’s number one tip for growing an Instagram following as well as a happy, fulfilling life.

In This Episode

[01:13] Welcome to the show, Cuyler!

[01:57] Cuyler shares his background and his journey into the beauty industry.

[04:32] Cuyler speaks about his parents’ reaction when he wanted to go to cosmetology school.

[07:29] Listen, as Cuyler discusses the huge part music plays in his life.

[08:55] Cuyler shares moving to Houston and the jobs he did while waiting to get his Texas cosmetology license.

[11:21] He speaks about his interview with Mac Cosmetics and getting the opportunity to work with other creatives.

[12:49] Cuyler discusses how the pandemic has inspired him to try special effects makeup and portrait work.

[14:17] How did you get back into working in the salon after Mac?

[17:28] Cuyler shares how he didn't feel like he fit in until he got his own salon at Sola.

[20:16] Cuyler speaks about being fired from a salon in Florida.

[21:40] Listen, as Cuyler shares where he got the self-confidence to go out on his own and open a Sola studio.

[24:05] Cuyler discusses how he built his clientele since he's been at Sola using social media.

[26:27] Do you ever get new clients through Instagram?

[27:40] Cuyler shares his number one tip for using Instagram.

[29:52] When it's all said and done, Cuyler wants to know that he changed someone's life.

[31:28] Thank you so much for listening!

Stay Connected

Connect with Jennie

Connect with Cuyler

@cuylerdidit

25. Popular Nobody’s Tips for Staying Hungry + Humble with John Mosley Sep 15, 2020

We are honored to bring John Mosley, aka Mr. Popular Nobody, on the Sola Stories Podcast! John is one of the most in-demand educators in the industry, who’s grown a massive following on social media (@popular_nobody) and a clientele that includes celebrities like Kendrick Lamar and Eminem.

John joins Kim Bennett (@kimi_kisses) for a conversation about what inspired him to become a barber, what to look for in a brand partnership, and how he’s grown his brand, Popular Nobody.

Listen as John discusses why he thinks the Sola model is the future of the beauty industry and some inspiring words for the Sola community. As both educators, Kim and John talk about the importance of education and why it’s so important to invest in to maintain a successful career behind the chair.

John is not just an educator on stage but in every aspect of his life. Tune in to be inspired by John’s aspirational accomplishments. His success as an entrepreneur is sure to spark a fire in you to strive for more in your own business.

In This Episode

[01:35] Welcome to the show, John!

[02:56] John shares his background in sports and his mom’s influence to become a barber.

[04:30] John shares that his entire family is hairdressers and cosmetologists.

[06:42] What inspired you to become an educator and give back to the industry?

[09:02] John discusses the power of creating your own path.

[12:00] John shares what to look for in a brand that you want to be an educator for.

[14:46] Listen as John shares the soft skills that it takes to match the heart skills.

[16:03] John shares what Popular Nobody means and how it originated.

[18:00] John talks about vertical integration within a business.

[20:22] What is the Popular Nobody brand doing to help others?

[21:16] John speaks about his new nonprofit, Nobody Way Foundation.

[23:35] He shares the first time he heard of Sola Salon Studios.

[24:55] What is your favorite thing about Sola?

[26:01] John shares words of encouragement for the Sola community.

[27:20] Listen as John speaks about what we can be proud of during this pandemic.

[28:10] John discusses Black Lives Matter.

[30:41] John speaks about getting involved in beauty schools and developing education.

[37:00] John discusses his Instagram and how he uses it to boost his business.

[40:00] John shares the ins and outs of social media and how to lay out a page.

[41:30] John shares his final thoughts and his thanks for believing in him.

[42:38] We are all in the same ocean, but we are not all in the same boat.

[45:03] Thank you for being on the show!

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@kimi_kisses

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@popular_nobody

24. Balancing Back-to-School Like A Boss Sep 08, 2020

Like most things this year, the start of the school year has been looking a lot different for most families. Whether your child is required to go back to school fully in-person, a mix of virtual and in-person learning, or 100 percent remote learning, we know parents are struggling to navigate this new norm, specifically regarding how it affects their life as a salon owner.

In an effort to support you finding your groove as a working parent, we hosted a panel discussion with some of our parent Faces of Sola who, too, are balancing back-to-school with life in the salon. This panel was so valuable and chock-full of so much incredible advice, resources and overall support, we wanted to share this special discussion with you on the Sola Stories podcast, too.

Our panel was moderated by Sola’s Culture Ambassador and first Sola professional, Kim Bennett (@kimi_kisses), who was joined by panelists Shelbie Donoho (@shelbiedonoho), Amanda Fagan (@amandainreverie), Tahesa Nelson (@hairbytahesa), Ashley White (@ashleywhitestudio) and Steven Wren (@mrwrencuts). Together, they discuss balancing the back-to-school struggles and how they have been (or plan to) balance this new norm and share what is working for them as their individual scenarios unfold.

As we always say, we are all in this together, lean on your Sola community and take advantage of the Sola tools available to help you when you don't know what to do or where to turn.

If you would still like to watch the full webinar we hosted, you can watch the recording on our YouTube channel or in your Sola Pro app.

In This Episode

[00:26] Welcome to the show!

[02:24] Kim shares that her daughter is doing hybrid learning in school.

[03:56] Shelbie is in Springfield, Missouri, and her daughter is in private school, going full time.

[05:54] Amanda speaks about being with Sola since 2016; she shares that her children are being taught with the hybrid model.

[07:06] Tahesa from Madison, Alabama, has been with Sola for five years, and her son is in school full time.

[08:00] Ashley is in Michigan, but her Sola location is in Indiana. Her two children are going to school full time and are thrilled.

[09:37] Steven is a father of three, and his children will be 100% remote learning in Chicago.

[11:20] Kim speaks about her biggest concerns with school and working during this pandemic.

[15:30] Steven speaks about how teaching from home has been going.

[18:35] They discuss their children's mental health and how it’s related to their kids going back to school.

[21:23] The panel discusses how important flexibility in their schedules is, especially with having their children at home.

[24:07] Listen as they discuss how the Sola tools have helped them keep in contact with their clients throughout the pandemic.

[28:09] They speak about best practices with hybrid and remote learning.

[31:12] As beauty professionals and community leaders, we can talk to our clients and share what is working and what’s not.

[33:49] How do you organize the day with your children at home but keeping them within a school structure?

[36:42] Kim speaks about being a single mom and how that affects her options when it comes to work and school options for her daughter.

[38:36] Tahesa shares some great online resources she found that helped her when teaching her son (Outschool.com).

[41:25] Steven speaks about the outside resources he has.

[44:48] Kim and Ashley talk about how to plan for unexpected scheduling changes.

[47:43] They discuss how great the clients have been with all the uncertainty and how the children are rolling with the punches.

[50:27] The panel speaks about this pandemic's mental health aspect on our kids.

[53:49] Steven shares some final thoughts on remote learning and hybrid learning.

[55:25] Tahesa says to stick to your schedule and don't give up.

[55:53] Amanda says to keep leaning into the support of your community.

[56:48] Ashley shares some last sentiments and insights.

[58:10] Kim says that you are not alone!

[59:48] Thanks, everyone, for being on the show!

Stay Connected

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Connect with Tahesa

Connect with Ashley

Connect with Steven

23. Staying Balanced In + Out of the Salon with Roxanne Muir, Canada’s First Sola Stylist Sep 01, 2020

On this episode of the Sola Stories Podcast, Jennie chats with the first beauty professional in Canada to take the leap of faith and join the Sola family. Roxanne has always been a go-getter, starting her career with an apprenticeship at age 15. Tune in to hear this feisty firecracker’s journey behind the chair and what's currently happening in Canada and her studio.

Roxanne shares how she got started in hairdressing, her journey of getting licensed, landing her first job, and the lessons she learned in the early stages in her career. Roxanne speaks about her various salon experiences - from apprenticing to booth rent to owning her own traditional salons - and why she was so eager to jump at the chance to move to Sola when the first Canada location opened in Toronto!

She believes that a Sola studio is a perfect solution for her and that the possibilities at Sola are endless. Roxanne also discusses how she handled the pandemic closures in Canada and how easy it was to get back on track once given the go-ahead to reopen.

Roxanne feels that a Sola studio allows her to both keep an active personal life and take care of her clients. In Canada, Sola now has three locations and is looking to open more.

In This Episode

[01:08] Welcome to the show, Roxanne!

[02:26] Roxanne speaks about her start as a hairstylist.

[03:34] Roxanne believes that being a hairstylist saved her life.

[05:00] How long is an apprenticeship in Canada before you get your license?

[06:17] Roxanne shares the first time she got to shampoo and the mess she made.

[07:31] When she was 16, she started hairdressing school.

[08:21] What kind of salons did you work in before you went out on your own?

[09:07] Roxanne speaks about when she first heard about Sola and what drew her to the salon suite concept.

[11:14] Roxanne believes most people open businesses because they want to control their environment.

[12:17] Roxanne speaks about having a Sola studio and how amazing it was to walk in and get right to work, without the need to remodel.

[14:49] Roxanne talks about the vibe she was able to create in her studio.

[17:36] Roxanne discusses how a Sola salon is the perfect salon environment for her.

[22:38] Do you feel like customers are looking for safer ways to get their hair done?

[24:27] Roxanne shares how the pandemic affected her personally and how the industry gave her purpose again.

[25:44] Roxanne says that her clients knew she was reopening before she did.

[26:38] She talks about all of her clients wanting to get in right when she reopened and how she managed to schedule them all to come in.

[29:25] Roxanne discusses how Sola allows her to create a balance between her personal life and salon life.

[31:05] Roxanne speaks about her son and how he has always been her number 1 support.

[33:01] Where do you see yourself going from here?

[35:51] Roxanne says that having a Sola studio has allowed her to create her career.

[37:28] Thank you so much for being on the show!

Stay Connected

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@roxannemuir

22. Your Mental Health Matters with Dr. Allan Ribbler Aug 25, 2020

As the majority of our community has returned to work in the salon, with some still in forced closure in California, we’ve begun to hear from our community that the weight of these new, unforeseen challenges have become harder to bear. To support you through this time, we wanted to bring a mental health professional onto the podcast to help you sort through the fear, anxiety and overwhelming emotion you may be feeling, and help you take care of yourself, in addition to all the clients you serve behind the chair.

Dr. Allan Ribbler is a neurobehavioral psychologist, who also happens to be the father of our Sola Stories Podcast producer, Angela Ribbler. Dr. Ribbler chatted with Kim Bennett, Sola’s Culture Ambassador, for an open and honest conversation about the emotional burden of COVID-19, particularly within the Sola community, as well as tools and strategies you can use to create boundaries for yourself both in and out of the salon.

Working behind the chair, it’s likely you’ve also been hearing about the negative impacts of the pandemic daily with your clients. Tune in to get Dr. Ribbler’s tips on turning the conversation around when you need to protect your own energy.

Have you ever thought about seeing a therapist? Not sure when the right time to seek therapy is or where to start looking for one? Dr. Ribbler believes that most people seek therapy when they are in distress, but it can be helpful to have a therapist to help with your day-to-day life and get to know you before a major personal crisis hits. And just like it’s important to have trust and connection with your clients, he says the same goes with finding the right therapist and suggests ways to find one that’s the right for you.

This very special podcast episode can not only help you navigate this pandemic with a bit more ease, but will give you eye-opening tips to help you overcome any challenge you may face in your career or personal life for years to come.

In This Episode

[05:32] Welcome to the show, Dr. Ribbler!

[05:50] Dr. Ribbler shares his background and the settings he has practiced in.

[07:18] Dr. Ribbler speaks about the range of anxiety disorders people are having with this pandemic.

[10:08] Kim says that she is a “hear-stylist” because so much listening is involved when working behind the chair.

[10:44] Being in the service industry, how important is it for us to listen to our clients?

[13:30] Kim shares the absence of boundaries with clients.

[15:22] Dr. Ribbler shares how to be empathetic with your clients, but leave that in the salon so you can be your best self at home. Know your values and apply them to yourself.

[19:10] Dr. Ribbler speaks about a tool that will help you take the things you do at work and shut them off when you go home.

[21:20] Kim shares that she didn’t realize she was close to burnout until the pandemic hit.

[22:17] Dr. Ribbler discusses when it’s time to seek professional help.

[23:40] He says most people get help when they are distressed.

[27:12] Listen as Dr. Ribbler speaks about whether you need to see a therapist regularly or only when you need it.

[30:15] Dr. Ribbler discusses how to find the best therapist that’s right for you.

[35:45] Kim says that when she started as a stylist 30 years ago, nobody talked about mental health care, but now a lot of them do.

[36:55] Dr. Ribbler shares some resources for finding a therapist.

[39:06] Do you have a limit on how much COVID you can take a day?

[40:21] Dr. Ribbler suggests ways to steer the conversation away from COVID and bring it back to happy times.

[42:28] Dr. Ribbler shares some final thoughts for the listeners.

[43:18] Thank you so much for being on the show and sharing your wisdom!

Stay Connected

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@kimi_kisses

21. Staying #SolaStrong in California with Jodi Snowden Aug 18, 2020

On this episode, we talk with Jodi Snowden, one of our 2020 Faces of Sola and owner of Jodi Snowden & Co., a bridal hair and makeup salon in Southern California. While COVID-19 has affected our entire community of beauty professionals, Jodi and our other Sola pros in California have been hit especially hard with not one but two shutdowns, as well as the sudden halt of this year’s wedding season which is Jodi’s salon’s primary source of business. We brought Jodi on the podcast to chat with us about how the current closures in California are affecting her both professionally and personally.

Listen, as Jodi shares the emotional impact of being shut down twice, and the tools and resources she’s used to keep her motivated and inspired to get back to serving her clients in the salon.

In This Episode

[01:09] Welcome to the show, Jodi!

[01:53] Jodi speaks about coming home from the Faces of Sola in March, and a week later, everything got shut down.

[02:36] Jodi discusses moving out of her old studio during the first shutdown and then opening her new studio once everything reopened.

[04:07] How would you explain the second shutdown's emotional impact compared to the first one?

[05:40] Jodi speaks about her day-to-day clients and how she stays in touch with them.

[08:19] Jodi discusses why she believes salon studios should be able to reopen.

[11:28] What are your biggest fears now around these closures in California?

[12:28] Listen as Jodi shares how she believes that people are losing hope now, more so than they did during the first closure.

[14:03] Jodi speaks about some books and podcasts that she suggests to help you stay positive.

[15:59] When feeling down, Jodi says to turn off the news, stay off of social media, spend time outside and change your scenery.

[20:08] Thank you so much for being on the show!

Stay Connected

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@jodisnowden

20. Passion with a Purpose with Kenya Kirk Aug 11, 2020

On this episode of Sola Stories, Jennie is joined by 2017 Faces of Sola Kenya Kirk i from Austin, who truly stole our hearts because of the way she selflessly and regularly gives back. As a foster parent, she started a program called Mommy and Me, which has evolved into an organization called The Texture Lab, to teach parents and foster parents how to work with their child’s textured hair. Kenya also started a nonprofit called Dreams for Diamonds that makes wigs for kids with cancer. When she is not running these two wonderful organizations, she shares her passion for knowledge as a traveling educator for Keratin Complex.

Tune in to this episode to hearKenya speak about her journey to become a hairdresser, and what drove her to starting her nonprofit organizations. Kenya also opens up about the heartbreaking story of her sister, who lost her life due to domestic violence, and how that has made her passion for helping people even stronger. “It is my purpose in life to be able to stand strong for others when other people can’t.”

In This Episode

[01:25] Welcome to the show, Kenya!

[01:51] Kenya shares that being part of Faces of Sola was one of the top experiences of her career.

[03:28] Kenya speaks about her journey into hairdressing.

[05:46] Hairdressing is in her blood; she was destined to be in the beauty industry.

[07:21] Kenya discusses how having a studio allows her to do all the important things in her life.

[09:04] What made you transition to studio rental?

[11:26] Kenya speaks about the evolution of “Dreams for Diamond”

[14:20] Kenya shares how she woke up the day after making a wig for one cancer patient named Diamond and decided she wanted to make more wigs.

[17:05] Kenya discusses her other program called “Mommy and Me” and why she started the program.

[19:34] Mommy and Me has evolved into The Texture Lab.

[21:43] Kenya believes that a person’s hair is their crown, which is why she got into hairdressing.

[25:53] Kenya talks about the loss of her sister from domestic violence and how that has impacted her life and family.

[27:31] “It is my purpose in life to be able to stand strong for others when other people can’t.”

[29:58] How do you believe being involved in your community has helped you grow a strong salon business?

[31:06] Kenya shares ways you can start giving back to your commitment.

[32:59] Thank you for being on the show!

Stay Connected

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@acutabovephd

19. Reopening Safer At Sola with Kim Bennett Aug 04, 2020

On this episode of Sola Stories, Jennie is joined by Sola’s Culture Ambassador, Kim Bennett, also known as Kimi Kisses. Kim owns her salon in Denver, Colorado and was the first-ever Sola stylist.

After being closed nearly 9 weeks, Kim knew she was not going to let this disease take down her business. So when she was able to reopen her salon on May 9th, she even shocked herself by generating $10,000 in sales in her first week! Kim credits the education and resources she received from Sola to help her make her #SolaStrong comeback and the sanitation training from Barbicide to ensure the utmost safety of her clients - many of whom said visiting her salon was the first time they had left the house since the pandemic hit.

Tune in to hear how Kim adapted her salon and procedures to keep her guests safe and how this pandemic has created opportunities to reinvent herself as a business owner once again.

In This Episode

[00:43] Welcome to the show, Kim!

[01:41] Kim shares how she is adjusting to the “now normal” created by the pandemic.

[03:40] Listen as Kim speaks about what she was doing during the months that her salon was closed.

[06:20] Kim discusses how she spent her time during the closure and planned how she would reopen her salon.

[09:44] Kim killed it the first week that her salon was reopened, and she shares how she handled it all.

[11:55] She speaks about how she wanted to make her guests feel safe and pampered.

[13:40] How were the retail sales during that first week?

[15:47] Kim discusses how she got her salon ready for the reopening and how she changed her retail space.

[18:16] Kim speaks about how she brought up her guest's retail needs into the conversation and let them know the products were safe.

[22:02] How did you use SolaGenius technology to rebook all of your clients during the multiple reopening date changes?

[26:08] Kim feels like the technology that Sola offers was instrumental in staying connected with her guests.

[28:30] Kim speaks about how she focused on keeping her client experience as personal as possible with the new restrictions.

[31:37] Over half of Kim's guests her first week open told her that her salon was the first place they had been since being in quarantine.

[34:00] We are in a COVID world, and we are all experiencing this together. Check out Sola’s COVID-19 Resource Center to help you adjust to this new normal.

[35:24] Listen as Kim shares how she feels now - physically and emotionally - after a month back in the salon.

[39:11] Jennie speaks about Kim's new sense of gratitude for the people around her.

[41:33] Kim shares the big years she's had since she started working at Sola in 2014, and how Sola has been with her through all of her difficulties in life.

[46:17] Thank you so much for being on the show!

Stay Connected

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@Kimi_Kisses

18. On The Cutting Edge As A Celebrity Stylist With Sade Williams Jul 28, 2020

Sade Williams is a celebrity stylist, owner of Sade Milinda Studios in Manhattan, New York, and one of our 2017 Faces of Sola. Before coming to Sola, Sade worked at one of the most prestigious salons in New York City. She moved to Sola because she was ready to create an intimate salon home for her guests, many of whom are high profile models and celebrities. She has even created an assistant apprenticeship program where she trains mentees on how to do high-end salon and editorial work in their own salons someday.

Listen as Sade shares how she got started in hairdressing and the journey she took to create the career of her dreams. Sade has worked with many celebrities and has found ways to combine her passions for hair and fashion.

Sade speaks about the COVID-19 shutdown in New York City and how she stayed in communication with her clients while her salon was closed. Because of the pandemic's financial impact, she came up with creative service packages for her clients that served both her and her clients’ needs during this challenging time.

Sade's salon is back open now with social distancing restrictions and she couldn’t be happier to be back behind the chair doing what she loves most.

In This Episode

[01:22] Welcome to the show, Sade!

[02:58] Sade shares her background and how she got into hairdressing.

[05:48] Sade says that she can't work in a big salon. She likes a more intimate setting.

[06:26] The first salon she worked in was in the meatpacking district of New York.

[08:54] On Thursday, Sade was working with Beyonce's mom. On Friday, she quit her job, and on Tuesday, she has an interview at one of the top 5 salons in Manhattan.

[11:20] When you worked at Ted Gibson, did you work with celebrities?

[13:14] Sade discusses the opportunities she got while working with Ted Gibson.

[15:24] Listen as Sade speaks about how scary it was to work celebrity clients at first.

[18:23] Sade says she was in the right place at the right time to combine her passions of hair and fashion.

[20:52] Sade speaks about how she stays on the cutting edge with social media.

[23:38] Social media allows people to get inspiration from others in your field.

[24:42] What made you go out on your own?

[27:06] Sade shares that being independent allowed her to keep her connections and use her experiences from the other salons.

[29:30] Sade speaks about picking out her Sola studio, which she has now been at for five years.

[30:50] Sade describes her studio.

[33:50] What impact did the pandemic closures have on your salon?

[36:06] Sade discusses how she took care of her clients during the shutdown.

[39:31] Listen as Sade shares the packages she offered to help clients the pandemic financially impacted.

[43:24] Her freelance work is on hold, and they still don't know when those jobs will resume.

[45:46] How have you used this time for personal and professional growth?

[48:22] Sade speaks about eating healthy, working out and meditating during the shutdown.

[49:54] Thank you so much for being on the show!

Stay Connected

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Connect with Sade

@sademilindastudios

17. Crisis Creates Opportunity with Michael Cole Jul 21, 2020

Michael Cole is a business coach, industry thought-leader, co-founder of Summit Salon Business Center, and a loyal Sola supporter. Upon the first salon closures, Michael generously hosted a Facebook Live for our community on preparing for financial uncertainty. Over the years, Michael has coached several Sola owners, been a speaker at several Sola Sessions, and hosted many virtual education events for our community.

Tune in to this episode of Sola Stories to hear how to take advantage of this unprecedented crisis and create unprecedented opportunities.

As Michael says, “What we take for granted we lose and what we take advantage of we maximize.” Are you missing out on opportunities to increase your profits? Listen as Michael discusses ways to make more money even when seeing fewer clients as well as ways beauty professionals who weren’t prepared for the shutdown the first time can prepare now if it happens again.

In This Episode

[02:12] Welcome to the show, Michael!

[03:21] Michael says be humble or be humbled and how this pandemic is humbling many people.

[05:09] Listen as Michael speaks about how the pandemic has made it necessary for us to learn how to breathe underwater.

[06:59] Unprecedented crisis creates unprecedented opportunities.

[11:06] Michael shares what experiences prepared him for handling the financial issues the pandemic has stirred up.

[13:52] Michael says that now the opportunity is recovery, restoration, and transformation.

[15:37] Jennie reflects on a time when a company she worked for experienced layoffs, and she was thrown into a management position that she didn’t feel qualified for.

[17:01] What we see at Sola are people that are starting their own businesses, and years from now, they will look back and see the pandemic as an opportunity.

[19:01] Michael talks about the massive exodus he sees from the traditional chair rental to a Sola studio.

[21:00] Michael defines experience as an emotional episode in moments of time, which clients feel when they go to a salon.

[23:31] Michael speaks about what he hears from service providers and how they are making more money now while serving fewer people.

[28:06] Do I or do I not increase my prices? Many beauty pros are asking themselves this question.

[31:50] Michael says charge what you are worth, you are worth more than you are charging.

[34:20] Are you missing out on opportunities to increase your profit?

[35:54] Once you sell the add-on, charge for it.

[38:56] Michael discusses what to do when people say they waited too late to prepare financially and are sinking.

[41:45] How can a small business owner navigate which programs are best for them?

[43:44] Desperation is way more motivating than inspiration.

[45:33] Michael shares some tips for beauty professionals in case they get shut down again.

[48:04] Not having to means you managed your money right.

[49:42] Michael discusses some programs he has in place to help Sola pros build their clientele and maintain their clients during a pandemic.

[52:58] Michael shares how L’Oreal and Salon Centric support Sola and their beauty professionals.

[54:28] Thank you so much for being on the show!

Stay Connected

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Connect with Michael

@michaelcolesummit

16. Quick Tip: Pay Your Rent In Retail Jul 14, 2020

We want to talk about retail because, in a salon studio environment, retail can be a tremendous opportunity to boost your bottom line. We know that with COVID-19 closures, you are probably trying to make up for the lost time, and with the need to sanitize after every guest, it's almost impossible to double book as you may be used to.

If you are uncomfortable talking to your clients about retail, you are leaving a lot of money on the table - money that can literally pay your weekly rent. Remember, you are doing your clients a service when you send them home with the products to maintain the style you've created. Guests will appreciate you suggesting products that will solve a problem they are having or maintain the look you’ve created in the salon.

Tune in to this Quick Tip to for 10 tips to help you boost your bottom line and retail like a boss. Sit back, take notes, and get ready to start paying your rent in retail!

In This Episode

[00:26] Welcome to the show!

[00:29] Today, we share some quick tips on how to pay your rent in retail.

[01:09] The intimate setting allows you to talk to your clients about retail.

[02:13] Some stylists consider retail a separate business entity.

[02:49] Think about suggesting retail as a way to educate your guest on how to maintain the look you have created.

[03:52] Clients will thank you for suggesting products that will correct a problem they are having.

[04:33] Education can help a client maintain their look between appointments.

[05:15] Jennie shares 10 tips to help you boost your bottom line.

[07:16] Be inquisitive, ask a lot of questions.

[10:10] Tip #6 is to help your clients preserve their color.

[12:01] Have you ever explained the difference between the brushes and which one will work best for their hair?

[14:29] Tip #10: Think about creating an eye-catching display, that’s COVID-19 safe.

[16:53] Thank you for listening to the show!

Links and Resources

Sola Salon Studios

@solasalons

15. Evolving & Adapting To Stay Successful in The Beauty Industry With Gordon Miller Jul 07, 2020

If there’s anyone who understands evolution in the beauty industry it’s Gordon Miller. Gordon has been a part of the Sola family for many years as both a speaker at the Sola Sessions and Sola Summit as well as a close friend and mentor to Jennie Wolff. Gordon’s insights and mentorship have made tremendous impacts on Sola’s evolution and programs over the years, including his advice when we first decided to launch the Sola Stories podcast! Gordon is the CEO of Hairbrained, a digital platform exclusively for hairdressers, and he hosts their incredible podcast Hairbrained Conversations. He has been at the forefront of social media for the beauty industry and has continued to be an advocate for its marketing power, allowing beauty professionals to go independent earlier in their careers than they could before social media marketing.

Listen, as Gordon shares how crucial social media is in this COVID world and why staying connected through platforms like Hairbrained are so important in our time of social distancing. Gordon believes that once we are on the other side of this pandemic, beauty professionals in salon suites who have continued to invest in their education, learn new skills, and stay connected with their clients and the industry will be set up to flourish.

Gordon says that beauty professionals need to be prepared for whatever uncertainties might come their way. It could be a resurgence of the COVID-19 pandemic or something smaller like a slowdown in the industry, but whatever it is, being financially prepared is the key. If you haven’t already, download Sola’s free guide 8 Tips for Beauty Professionals to Navigate COVID-19 and Overcome Financial Uncertainty and prepare yourself to stay successful no matter what life throws your way.

In This Episode

[03:19] Welcome to the show, Gordon!

[05:57] Gordon shares how his journey in the beauty industry started.

[08:50] Working in social and digital in the early days led him to work with American Salon Magazine.

[10:09] Gordon speaks about his career in the educational side of the beauty industry.

[11:42] Why did you become so passionate about social media?

[14:30] Gordon shared that every time he saw someone do social media right, he saw the results and just knew that social media would be huge.

[16:34] Marketing matters and it has always mattered; you can bootstrap yourself through social media.

[18:24] Why do you think social media is essential in this COVID world?

[20:52] Gordon says that social media is like an ongoing buffet of information.

[23:49] Gordon discusses what his team is working on at Hairbrained.

[26:06] He speaks about his primary role at Hairbrained and what the rest of his team does.

[29:41] Gordon feels like Hairbrained is the perfect company for what is happening now in the world.

[32:36] Gordon believes that once we are on the other side of this pandemic, the people who have done the work and stayed strong will flourish.

[37:15] When do you think events will come back?

[39:20] Gordon speaks about a movement in the K-pop world to reopen the entertainment business in South Korea and how that will affect us in the U.S.

[43:15] Gordon shares how people can stay connected and get their education through the pandemic.

[45:18] We might see a throwback to the old days where the star educators were local.

[47:49] What do you think hairdressers need to do in case they close the salons again?

[50:45] Were you financially prepared for a crisis? Are you mentally prepared in case shutdowns happen again?

[51:22] Download Sola’s 8 Tips for Beauty Professionals to Navigate COVID-19 and Overcome Financial Uncertainty.

[54:05] Gordon speaks about Hairbrained’s digital education platform hblive.me with a free course from Michael Cole on how to up your game on Instagram.

[55:21] Who are your mentors?

[57:02] Thank you so much for being on the show!

Stay Connected

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@hairbrained_official @gordnm

14. Fighting For Her Life: Conquering Cancer & COVID-19 Jun 30, 2020

As her first Solaversary approached, Staten Island stylist Jodi Cali had no idea that she would soon be fighting for her life. In January 2020, Jodi was diagnosed with breast cancer, and shortly after her first chemo treatment, she could not get out of bed. She experienced a lot of pain around her neck and throat and thought it was due to the side effects of her treatments. But after her symptoms continued to worsen, she learned she had also contracted COVID-19.

On this episode of Sola Stories, hear how Jodi found the strength to keep fighting, the support she has received from her family, Sola community, and her clients, and how this challenge has given her a new outlook on life. Through this experience, Jodi has remembered the importance of putting your needs and self-care first in order to be able to be there for the ones you love.

We brought Jodi onto the Sola Stories podcast to share her story of strength, hope, and faith. We hope that if you or anyone you know is going through tough times, this conversation will lift you up and inspire you to raise your head and keep soldiering on.

In This Episode

[01:15] Welcome to the show, Jodi!

[02:00] Jodi shares opening her Sola studio, getting separated from her husband, and not going to a followup mamo when they suggested she come back.

[04:41] Jodi discusses feeling a lump and getting her breast cancer diagnosis.

[05:19] She went in for her first chemo treatment and about two weeks later she was diagnosed with COVID-19.

[07:59] Did you stay in the hospital or were you sent home?

[08:59] Jodi shares how her family handled her having COVID-19.

[11:43] She speaks about how she communicated with her clients through the COVID-19 and chemo.

[13:49] What is your Sola community like in Staten Island?

[15:10] Jodi shares how she found the strength to keep fighting during this tough time.

[19:15] Jodi discusses her step-mother having her second round of breast cancer before being diagnosed.

[24:09] You have to take care of yourself first before you do anything else.

[26:39] How has this affected your relationship with your children?

[27:22] Jodi speaks about what she is looking forward to when the next 11 treatments are over.

[30:00] What advice would you give someone who is going through what you are?

[31:55] Jodi shares how she wants to use her experiences to inspire others.

[34:32] Do you know where to go on social media for inspirational quotes?

[35:24] Thank you so much for sharing your story!

Stay Connected

Connect with Jennie

Connect with Jodi

@jodi_on_mane

13. Goal-Setting, Staying Educated + Working With Your Bestie Jun 23, 2020

Tara Chilton is the co-owner of Meraki Salon & Co. in Springfield, Mo and one of our 2020 Faces of Sola. Tara fell in love with the beauty industry as a child after watching makeover shows and seeing the emotional reactions and internal change people went through after seeing their physical selves transformed.

On this episode of the Sola Stories podcast, Tara shares how she and her salon co-owner, Shelbie Donoho, became a part of the Sola family and how having a great mentor helped her along her journey. Tara also opens up about losing her father how she’s used that devastating challenge to propel her career forward. Tara said, "I wanted to pursue the life he wanted to give me and live the life he couldn't," and that has been her inspiration to make every day count.

Listen as Tara speaks about working with a partner, the importance of improving yourself through education, and how she and Shelbie set goals to ensure the continued growth of their business.

In This Episode

[01:02] Welcome to the show, Tara!

[01:14] Tara shares how she and her partner Shelbie Donoho became part of Sola.

[02:09] How did you get started in the beauty industry?

[03:50] Tara discusses the mentors who have helped her along her journey.

[05:01] "Wherever you are at, put your focus there."

[05:40] Tara speaks about how losing her dad had a significant impact on her life.

[06:17] "I wanted to pursue the life he wanted to give me and live the life he couldn't."

[06:55] Tara talks about working in a traditional salon and the value she took away from there.

[07:58] Why did you go into business with a partner?

[09:17] Tara gives some advice for anyone who is thinking of going into business with a friend or family member.

[10:14] "If your goals don't scare you, then they aren't big enough."

[10:34] How do you set your goals for your business and grow year to year?

[12:51] Tara speaks about the importance of improving yourself through education.

[13:39] How do you find continuing education?

[15:04] Tara talks about being a podcast junkie and podcasts she listens too.

[16:42] Tara shares some final thoughts for the listeners.

Stay Connected

Connect with Jennie

@taralynnchilton @merakisalonandco

Connect with Tara

12. Hungry for Success, Knowledge and a Good Grilled Cheese with Lindsey Couch Jun 16, 2020

Also known as “The Hungry Hairdresser,” 2020 Faces of Sola Lindsey Couch knew from a young age that she wanted a career that enabled her to make people happy. After making a last-minute decision not to pursue psychology at a traditional college, but unsure what she should do next, her mom encouraged her to become a hairstylist. As Lindsey says, “Mom knows best!” because in cosmetology school, Lindsey quickly found her tribe and for the first time, felt like she belonged.

Lindsey not only rocks it as a salon owner but also as a national educator for Paul Mitchell. While she is a thriving success now, she had to overcome rejection and self-doubt along her journey, specifically while pursuing her dream of becoming an educator.

Listen, as this spunky, upbeat #SolaBoss shares her experience of overcoming rejection, plus tips on how to become an educator, and more!

In This Episode

[01:19] Welcome to the show, Lindsey!

[01:35] Lindsey shares how she got the title “The Hungry Hairdresser.”

[03:14] She speaks about authenticity.

[07:54] Lindsey became a hairdresser to make people happy.

[10:50] Her mom told her she needed to go to cosmetology school.

[13:01] “An arrow can only be shot by pulling it backward. So when life is dragging you back with difficulties, just know you are about to be launched into something great. So just focus and keep aiming.”

[15:08] What made you decide to become a Paul Mitchell educator?

[16:59] Lindsey shares what inspires her to want to teach other hairdressers the craft.

[18:36] Lindsey talks about failing her first audition to become a Paul Mitchell educator.

[20:13] How do you think that experience shaped the person you are today?

[21:16] Lindsey shares tips on how to become an educator.

[22:53] What has been your most rewarding moment?

[23:49] Thank you so much for being on the show!

Stay Connected

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Connect with Lindsey

@thehungryhairdresser

11. Diversity, Self-Love and the Power of Hope with Polly Sanders-Peterson Jun 09, 2020

At Sola, we’re committed to creating a culture of mutual respect and acceptance. We stand for equality, and we stand together, in solidarity, to create change.

This episode was recorded prior to the launch of the Sola Stories podcast, with a Sola professional who has a heart of gold, and at 75 years young, has been behind the chair for 55 years. Polly Sanders-Peterson was the first black student accepted into her beauty college and was the first black salon owner in Denver's primarily white, affluent Cherry Creek neighborhood.

In 1965, while her friends and family marched with Martin Luther King Jr., Polly used her talents as a hairstylist to unite people of all races by offering free haircuts to black and white women. Today, in addition to her work behind the chair, Polly also works as an outreach pastor and visits a women’s prison weekly to share the power of hope with the people who need it most. She has been a thriving business owner of her Sola salon, Polly & Company, for 15 years and continues to use her love of people and hair to make a lasting impact behind the chair and beyond.

Polly is one of the most empowering and uplifting people we know, and we couldn’t think of a better time to share her heartfelt and inspiring words with you.

In This Episode

[02:20] Welcome to the show, Polly!

[02:37] Polly shares how exciting it was to be one of the 2018 Faces of Sola.

[04:05] How did you initially get into hairdressing?

[06:37] As soon as Polly walked into beauty college, she fell in love with the industry.

[08:21] Polly speaks about her career journey and finding the place that gave her confidence and allowed her to grow.

[10:47] Polly shares the story of how she made it to Cherry Creek.

[13:26] How did you eventually end up at Sola?

[15:24] Polly was within the first 30 stylists in the Sola community.

[16:05] What fear did you have when you started over at Sola at 60 years old?

[18:18] Polly speaks about her experience at the Sola Cherry Creek community.

[21:29] Polly discusses why giving back is such a priority in her life.

[24:04] Polly shares doing free haircuts during the Martin Luther King Jr. march in the late 60s.

[26:06] "No work is insignificant; all labor that uplifts humanity has dignity and importance and should be undertaken with painstaking excellence" - Martin Luther King Jr.

[28:07] When and how did you learn to love yourself?

[28:03] Polly shares how she overcame the negative and rejection in her life.

[30:43] What do you love about yourself now?

[32:19] Polly gives some advice for people who are struggling to love themselves.

[33:41] Polly discusses her most rewarding moment as a hairdresser.

[34:46] What is the best life or career advice they have given you?

[35:28] Polly shares some last words of wisdom for the listeners.

[37:37] Thank you so much for being here with us today on the Sola Stories podcast.

Stay Connected

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Connect with Polly

@pollysanderspeterson

10. Forging Her Path with Diana Antes May 26, 2020

Growing up, Diana Antes was encouraged to follow a career path that yielded stability and security - like healthcare professional - rather than one that promised fulfillment and joy. But with a calling to pursue her passion for hair, Diana forged her own path against all hurdles to eventually creating a thriving career as an independent salon owner and one of our 2020 Faces of Sola.

Join us for another episode of the Sola Stories Podcast, recorded at the Faces of Sola Experience on March 3, as Jennie and Diana discuss her journey to Sola and how she has grown her business into the success it is today.

Diana is the owner of the Diana Antes Studio in Sunnyvale, CA. She took her passion for doing hair and makeup in high school and turned it into an amazing and fulfilling career as a stylist, business coach and educator.

Diana speaks about coming out of cosmetology school as an apprentice and making very little money, while also balancing motherhood with two young children. Out of school, Diana got a job at a salon for the experience but had a calling to develop her own brand and environment as an independent salon owner. Once she heard about the Sola community, she knew where she needed to be.

Listen, as Diana discusses how she curates her beautiful Instagram feed and how she uses her social media channels to stay connected with her current clients and grow her business by attracting new ones. She shares how she uses social media to build her business coaching services and promote her hands-on training for stylists who want to elevate their skills.

In This Episode

[01:07] Welcome to the show, Diana!

[01:39] Diana shares what the American Dream was in her parents’ eyes and how that was not her passion.

[02:32] Her parents were very disappointed when she went to cosmetology school.

[03:38] Diana speaks about her journey once she graduated.

[05:42] What inspired you to post your pay stub on Instagram?

[06:05] Diana shares going from being an assistant to renting a chair and the eye-opening experience that was.

[07:13] What were you looking for when you decided to rent a Sola salon suite?

[08:24] Diana discusses how her children inspired her to work harder and the need to be successful.

[10:10] How did you grow your business so much that you needed to hire an assistant?

[12:09] Diana shares how she curates the pictures she uses on social media and posts them in the morning.

[13:13] Diana chats about how she uses social media to build her book of business.

[15:12] Diana speaks about why she is offering stylists hands-on training to elevate their skills.

[17:51] What is a business or marketing advice you would give to someone just starting as an independent salon owner?

[19:30] Diana shares how she sees her career developing in the future.

[20:54] Thank you so much for being with us today!

Stay Connected

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@dianaanteshair

9. Adjusting To A New Normal: Life After Reopening Her Salon with Katie Oakes May 19, 2020

Are you ready to reopen your salon? Listen, as Jennie and her guest, 2020 Faces of Sola Katie Oakes, discuss what the new normal looks like after returning to her salon since reopening after her state-mandated shutdown. Katie is from Savannah, Georgia, and just reopened her salon on April 27th, after being shut down for COVID-19. We wanted to bring her on the Sola Stories Podcast to share her experience with us about her reopening journey.

Katie has been at Sola for about three years and was actually honored as our 10,000th Sola professional at the West Palm Beach Sola Sessions in 2018. She started out sharing a studio, but after two years, she had built her business large enough that she was able to transition into a large studio by herself.

Listen as Katie shares what she did to prepare to reopen her salon, her enhanced sanitation practices, and how she’s adjusting her day-to-day routines. She talks about how seamless the transition has been to her post-quarantine salon procedures, how surprisingly comfortable she feels wearing a mask throughout her day, and how supportive her clients have been throughout this time.

After two six-day weeks in a row, Katie has now been able to condense her schedule back to her regular five-day week in the salon. Katie says now that her business is back up and running, she feels like life is getting almost back to normal.

In This Episode

[00:56] Welcome to the show, Katie!

[01:44] Katie shares her journey to Sola that started almost three years ago.

[03:16] Katie speaks about sharing a studio for the first two years with Sola before getting into her own space.

[04:47] What has your experience been with COVID-19 in Savannah?

[07:23] Katie discusses her sanitation procedures before and after clients, and how she runs her day-to-day business.

[09:16] Jennie speaks about getting a mask you are comfortable in and the availability of masks on the Sola Store.

[10:16] Are you adjusting your time slots and or having your clients wait in their cars?

[11:58] Katie talks about the physical updates she had to make to get ready for reopening.

[13:12] Katie speaks about how the retail side of her business is being handled.

[16:35] Have you changed your pricing or added any COVID fees to cover your costs?

[18:42] Katie discusses how she communicated with her clients and how she handled rebooking.

[22:47] Katie chats about how thrilled customers are that she is open.

[23:24] Katie shares how excited she is to be open, and she feels like life is almost back to normal.

[26:15] Katie, thank you so much for coming on the podcast and sharing your journey with us.

Stay Connected

Connect with Jennie

Connect with Katie

@hairbykatieoaks

8. Leading Heart First: Guiding Sola Through COVID-19 May 15, 2020

In this episode of Sola Stories, listen as Jennie chats with the woman in charge and the ultimate #SolaBoss, Christina Russell, CEO of Sola Salon Studios. Christina joined the Sola family in June 2019, and she oversees leadership, strategy and execution for all of Sola. We are lucky to have her as our beacon of light always, but especially through this challenging time.

Christina shares her journey from a small business owner to eventually taking her seat in executive leadership, what she loves most about working with the Sola team, and how she’s pivoted the company’s focus once the COVID-19 pandemic hit. Listen, as Christina discusses how she’s focused her own efforts on lobbying on behalf of all independent beauty professionals to legislators and why that is so crucial to Sola’s long-term growth and success.

While we hope for the successful reopen of all salons, Christina has worked to equip Sola’s franchisees and managers on a local level to make the case for the safe reopening of salon suites before other traditional-style salons may get the green light. This is due to the unique position we have at Sola with our private, one-on-one environments.

Christina and Jennie discuss the resources they have made available to all beauty professionals on Sola’s COVID-19 Resource Center, how Sola will weather this storm and growth potential one we get to the other side. The pent-up demand for salon services will surge once salons open, and Christina feels that the studio model will allow beauty professionals the opportunity to reopen with less risk in this new normal.

In This Episode

[00:56] Welcome to the show, Christina!

[01:26] Christina shares a little of her journey from a small business owner to training and executive leadership.

[05:05] What has been the most exciting thing you’ve experienced since joining the Sola team?

[07:45] Jennie chats about how driven Sola is to help their stylists to succeed.

[09:50] Christina discusses how she has pivoted her focus from exciting things happening for the year to just getting the business, franchisees, and stylists through this crisis.

[13:34] What do you feel are the best options for independent beauty professionals regarding financial support during this time?

[16:44] Jennie speaks about resources beauty professionals can use to help them apply for financial assistance, located on Sola’s COVID-19 resource center.

[18:03] Christina speaks about talking to legislators and others on behalf of Sola to help them understand the suites model.

[19:16] Why do you feel it is important to lobby for the independent beauty professionals that work in the salon studio environment?

[21:24] Sola is present in 44 states in the U.S. it’s been hard to get clarity on when everyone will open up.

[23:31] Christina believes that inconsistency has created confusion for small businesses and the salon industry.

[26:12] Christina shares how Sola is using its influence as the leading brand in the suites sector to get behind this issue and help get everyone back to work, safely.

[27:38] Even if you are part of phase three and don’t know when you will reopen, you should be prepared to educate yourself now.

[29:30] There is a time to be competitive and there is a time to make sure we all have a playing field to compete on.

[31:31] Jennie shares some great ideas she heard from the Faces of Sola panel.

[33:15] They speak about face masks available in the Sola Store.

[35:35] How has this crisis changed your perspective on things?

[37:43] Christina chats about how they can make a case for suites and what they offer as a safer alternative to the traditional salon environment.

[43:55] Christina gives a few words of encouragement to all the beauty professionals out in the field.

[44:32] Christina speaks about the Barbicide Certification that allows your clients to see that you have learned to manage sanitation safely.

[46:02] Sola has made all of their resources available to all beauty professionals here.

[47:01] What do you think the other side of this looks like for Sola?

[50:15] Christina believes that as the economy recovers and jobs get back to normal, there will be a demand for salon studios.

[51:30] What has been your most significant source of hope and positivity during this time?

[55:10] Jennie shares how Christina’s positivity has helped her through challenging moments.

[56:27] Thank you, Christina, for guiding us through this!

[56:43] Christina says to look in a mirror every day and tell yourself you are very good at what you do.

[58:15] Thank you for listening to the Sola Stories podcast.

Stay Connected

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7. The Importance of Self-Care During COVID-19 May 12, 2020

Is taking care of yourself something you prioritize or put on the back burner? On this episode of Sola Stories, I am chatting with Amanda Fagan, about how important self-care is, especially with COVID-19 and the stress it has put on everyone. Amanda was one of our 2018 Faces of Sola, and she says that self-care is speaking her language, so I thought this would be the perfect opportunity to have her on the show.

This pandemic has affected us all personally and professionally, adding a lot of stress and uncertainty. Listen as Amanda shares her insights into self-care, when she became an expert and why she feels it is so important now. She speaks about her self-care rituals and how self-care is a constant conversation with yourself, asking yourself what you need.

Amanda and I talk about how she is approaching the reopening of her studio, what changes she is making, and how the environment inside the studio will change. Although she still talks to her clients and gives them advice on their hair when they need it, she likes to focus on her guests that work in the medical field. She shares encouragement and supports them and gives them some tips on self-care.

Listen as we speak about the SolaGenius Tools and how they can help you streamline and supercharge your salon business. Amanda has jumped on the GlossGenius bandwagon and can’t wait to use it. What are you waiting for? Now is the time to reevaluate the way you manage your business.

In This Episode

[01:15] Welcome to the show, Amanda!

[01:42] Amanda speaks about self-care and how important it is for her to stay grounded.

[04:03] Amanda discusses her background, and when she started her Sola Salon.

[05:18] Why was that an excellent time for you to go independent?

[07:07] She chats about when she began focusing on self-care.

[08:31] Amanda shares her experience with COVID-19.

[10:51] She speaks about her clients and how special they are to her.

[13:51] Amanda offers encouragement and support to her clients in the healthcare field and gives them advice on the phone about what they can do with their hair.

[17:15] What are some of your self-care rituals?

[19:32] To Amanda, self-care is a constant conversation with yourself, asking yourself what you are feeling and what do you need.

[23:30] Why is self-care so important right now?

[26:32] Amanda shares what she does when she needs the inspiration to get out of bed and start her day.

[29:13] Amanda discusses how she is handling this pandemic with her daughters and doing everything from home like school and dance.

[31:28] What are you doing to prepare for reopening your salon? Are you changing up anything in your salon environment?

[34:10] Jennie speaks about the Sola Genius tools technology that they offer.

[35:11] Amanda shares her last words of wisdom for the listeners.

[36:50] Thank you for sharing everything with us on this podcast and the Sola blog.

[38:06] Thank you so much for being on the show today!

Stay Connected

Connect with Jennie

Connect with Amanda

@amandaffagan

Instagram | TikTok

6. Quick Tip: How To Get Started In Marketing May 05, 2020

In addition to in-depth interviews with Solepreneurs and industry thought-leaders, Sola Stories brings you Quick Tips to give you bite-sized pieces of valuable information that you can use to improve your business when you have a few minutes between clients or driving to work.

On this first Marketing Quick Tip, listen as Sola’s Chief Marketing Officer, Jennie Wolff, shares some quick marketing tips to help you find fun over fear when marketing your business. Jennie eases us into the sometimes frightening world of marketing and teaches us the importance of knowing how to tell your story.

Fun fact we learn in this episode: The average relationship a woman has with her hairdresser is 12 years, while the average relationship a woman has with her husband is 11.5 years. Your client relationships matter and the only way your clients can build a long-lasting relationship with you is by knowing your story. That’s where marketing comes in. If you are willing to put in the time and energy, especially as an independent salon owner, you get to predict your own future, and the sky's the limit.

In This Episode

[00:26] Welcome to the show!

[00:45] Our goal with the marketing quick tip is to give you bite-sized pieces of content that you can listen to any time.

[02:06] Marketing allows us to find your story every day.

[02:21] Jennie speaks about how to get started in marketing, and the fear that surrounds putting yourself out there.

[03:10] Jennie shares about her first job in a marketing agency.

[03:55] Jennie believes that independent salon owners are way ahead in the marketing game.

[04:36] A survey showed that a woman's average relationship with her hairdresser is twelve years, but the average relationship with their spouse is eleven and a half years.

[05:21] Marketing is like learning a new color technique and using it the first time.

[05:31] Marketing is all about storytelling.

[05:51] How often do you give yourself the chance to tell your story.

[06:21] Tip #1, learn something new every day.

[07:44] Tip #2, keep trying new things.

[08:52] Tip #3, ask for help when you need it.

[10:03] When you are willing to put in the time and energy especially as an independent salon owner you get to predict your own future and the sky's the limit.

[10:17] I hope you walk away from today's quick tip realizing how fun and not scary marketing can be.

Links and Resources

Sola Salon Studios

@solasalons

5. How To Make It As An Independent Salon Owner Apr 28, 2020

On this episode of Sola Stories, we are joined by four Faces of Sola to share their stories, tips and advice they have learned as independent salon owners at Sola.

Joining Jennie Wolff, we have Lindsey Couch (@thehungryhairdresser) co-owner of Arrow Salon in Louisville, KY, Diana Antes (@dianaanteshair) Diana Antes Studio in Sunnyvale, CA, Tara Chilton (@merakisalonandco) co-owner of Meraki Salon & CO in Springfield, MO, and nail artist Stefanie Stair (@the_stair_way) owner of The STAIR Way in Knoxville, TN.

Listen, as these amazing women share how they overcame their fears of going out on their own, the systems they believe are essential to success, how they handle retail in their studios and the importance of caring for your mental health when working behind the chair. Tara and Lindsey both co-own their salons, and the two speak about their favorite and most challenging parts of working with a partner. They all share how they build relationships in their respective Sola communities and the benefits of being at Sola, both for themselves and their customers.

Learn how these Sola bosses stay at the top of their game through continuing education, what inspired them to make the move to Sola, and how mentors have had a major impact on their careers and lives. Get tips from each on how to use social media to help grow your business, as well as advice for anyone who is thinking about going out on their own.

In This Episode

[01:01] Welcome to the show, Lindsey, Diana, Tara and Stef.

[02:36] Diana shares what her fears were when she went out on her own.

[03:40] Lindsey wasn’t afraid she would fail; she was more afraid of burning out.

[05:22] Stef, what fears did you have when you went out on your own?

[05:47] Tara speaks about what someone can do to get the confidence they need to make the leap.

[06:30] Tara shares what systems she believes are essential to get a salon studio set up for success.

[07:10] Does anyone else have any systems or boundaries in place that you think is important or ones you wish you had in place?

[09:37] Stef speaks about being pre-booked three months in advance, and it’s mostly from communication strategy.

[10:22] Tara shares how she tracks her numbers and the critical KPI’s she tracks.

[12:34] Lindsey chats about the retail strategy she uses in her salon.

[14:08] Stef speaks about the cuticle oil that she makes that she sells in her salon.

[14:50] Diana talks about her retail strategy in her salon.

[15:34] Can one of you tell us about your salon studio and paint a picture of how retail is a part of that experience?

[17:52] Stef shares some unique things she has in her salon that speak to who she is and what she does.

[18:48] Lindsey chats about what her dream salon looks like, how it represents her.

[20:23] Diana speaks about having her salon look like an indoor jungle.

[21:31] Tara, what is one thing your guests love about your studio?

[22:34] Tara explains why she went into business with a partner in the same studio.

[23:18] Lindsey chats about her studio partner, and the excellent communication and support system they have.

[25:26] Diana speaks about how she developed relationships in her Sola community.

[26:24] Stef being a nail artist, how do you partner with the hairdressers in your Sola community?

[28:08] Lindsey chats about why she attends Sola Sessions and what she takes away from them.

[29:13] Tara shares where she goes to get continuing education.

[30:23] Lindsey, what inspired you to become an educator?

[31:10] Diana, what inspired you to start a program in your studio?

[32:00] Tara speaks about the mentors she has had in her life and career.

[33:29] Does anyone have advice for anyone who is looking for a mentor?

[35:58] Lindsey chats about how she shows up authentically on her social media.

[36:52] Diana shares how she uses social media to connect with clients and grow her business.

[38:18] Stef discusses being a professional photographer and how she uses her experience to showcase herself on her social media.

[41:12] Everyone shares why they believe that self-care is so crucial for independent salon owners and what they do when they have downtime.

[44:31] They speak about their animals that help them with their mental wellbeing and self-care.

[46:21] Lindsey’s piece of advice is to stay hungry, never stop growing.

[46:40] Diana says always to trust your gut if it doesn’t feel right, don’t do it.

[47:02] Tara believes that you should love what you do and show your love to those around you.

[47:30] Stef says to take care of yourself and enjoy the ride.

[47:48] Jennie shares a quote she loves ‘it always seems impossible until it’s done.’

[48:52] Thank you for being here, ladies!!

Stay Connected with Sola

@solasalons

Connect with Jennie

@jenniethewolff

Connect with Lindsey

@thehungryhairdresser

Connect with Diana

@dianaanteshair

Connect with Tara

@merakisalonandco

Connect with Stef

@the_stair_way

4. Surviving COVID Quarantine + Prepping For The Comeback Apr 21, 2020

On this episode of Sola Stories, host Jennie Wolff chats with Steven Wren, one of Sola's 2020 Faces of Sola. Listen as they discuss why he made the career change to become a barber at 30 and how going independent has given him freedom, growth and control in his career.

Steven, owner of Steven Brandon Hair Studio in Chicago, first caught our attention right when he joined the Sola family a little over a year and a half ago. We have been following him on social media and love watching him inspire others through education, mentorship and by being a great member of our community.

Steven speaks about his Sola journey, where he was able to build his business enough in four months that he needed to transition from a standard studio to a much larger one.

He talks about staying busy during the downtime and how he has coped with not working over the past few weeks. Steven shares about his family and how he is staying positive and motivated while spending time with his children.

In this episode, listen as Jennie and Steven discuss how the Sola family can stay in touch through social media and what Sola is doing to keep everyone educated while waiting to go back to their studios. Additionally, Steven shares how he is planning for a grand reopening.

Listen while this positive, inspiring, uplifting barber helps you get prepped and ready to re-enter the world for your greatest comeback.

In This Episode

[02:10] Welcome to the show, Steven!

[02:56] Steven shares his background and how he became a barber.

[05:10] Steven started barber school when he was thirty, and it surprised him he wasn't the oldest one there.

[07:45] Steven shares the transition from a more conventional barbershop to his own Sola studio.

[09:36] Steven speaks about his one-year anniversary with Sola.

[13:57] What has your experience been with this COVID-19 and shelter at home situation?

[15:35] Steven shared what it felt like when his barbershop closed.

[17:59] Steven speaks about what he is doing during this downtime.

[19:49] He shared how much Sola is doing to keep people educated during this time.

[20:30] What are you doing with your family during this time?

[22:54] Steven speaks about how the Sola family can stay in touch with each other while salons are closed.

[24:02] How are you staying in communication with your customers?

[26:16] Steven chats about being able to stay positive by getting outside and going for a walk or run.

[28:55] Steven shares how he will celebrate his grand reopening.

[31:41] It's not about the hair; it's about what the person needs at that moment.

[32:22] Any last positive words for our listeners?

[33:36] Thank you so much for being on the show today!

Stay Connected

Connect with Jennie

Steven Brandon Hair Studio

Connect with Steven (@mrwrencuts)

Instagram | Twitter | Facebook

3. How To Balance It All Like A #MomBoss with Kelsey Morris Apr 14, 2020

Calling Kelsey Morris a go-getter is an understatement. Her career started on a very different path when she initially pursued a degree in criminology and law enforcement. But while in school, Kelsey learned she was pregnant, and after earning her criminology degree realized that a life of crime wasn’t conducive to raising a baby. So, she made a decision to follow another calling she had - going to beauty school. With a newborn on the way and a bartending gig on the side, she balanced it all like a total boss.

On this episode of Sola Stories, 2019 Faces of Sola Kelsey Morris shares why she decided to become a hairdresser and tells us about the mentors who advised her along the way. She speaks about her Sola journey, starting in a double studio with two other stylists, then eventually moving to her own studio to pursue mentorship. She shares how being in a salon studio has impacted her life outside of the salon, giving her the ability to be more present with her children and husband.

Listen as Kelsey gives advice on running a successful business while trying to be the best parent possible. She talks about how technology has given her the gift of time which allows her to have an active role in her family’s life as well as pursue other dreams outside of the salon, like opening her own clothing boutique. Kelsey shares how becoming an educator has influenced the way she works behind the chair and how she interacts with her clients. Kelsey also shares advice for anyone who is thinking of becoming an educator, and what she does in her role as GlossGenius Gloss Boss.

If you are looking for inspiration to dream bigger, take chances, and take your career to the next level, this is the episode you can't miss. So grab a pen and paper, sit back and take note of how this #MomBoss does it all.

In This Episode

[01:06] Kelsey, thank you so much for being on the show today!

[02:45] Kelsey shares how she got into hairdressing and how she used to cut her friend's hair.

[05:33] Kelsey speaks about her mentors and what inspires her in life and business.

[07:34] She chats about her brand and getting her presence known on social media.

[08:43] Kelsey shares that within six months of graduating beauty school, she was renting a booth.

[10:43] She started at Sola in a double room with three other stylists and then moved into her own studio, which she calls Studio K Salon.

[12:20] Did you have any fears when you stepped out into your first suite salon?

[13:42] Kelsey shares how she stays inspired in the independent setting and how she knows when it's time to take another step forward.

[16:07] Has working independently in a salon studio impacted your life outside of the salon?

[17:08] Kelsey speaks about giving everything her all with her daughter by her side.

[18:32] They discuss giving yourself grace because you can't be the best at everything every day.

[20:29] Kelsey gives her advice for someone who wants to run a successful business while still being a great parent.

[22:38] How has technology given you back your personal time?

[25:55] Kelsey shares how the features of Sola Genius help her run her business.

[27:30] Kelsey believes that the text or feature is her favorite feature of Sola Genius.

[28:10] Kelsey speaks about what she does in her role as a Gloss Boss for GlossGenius.

[29:49] What would you say to someone that still uses their paper book and will not give it up?

[31:30] Kelsey discusses how being an educator has influenced her as a hairdresser.

[34:26] Kelsey shares why she has focused on social media and how that has impacted her business overall.

[36:02] Kelsey's tip for pictures on Instagram is to find a background that you like.

[38:23] What is your advice for any listeners that are thinking about becoming an educator?

[41:05] Kelsey speaks about what is next for her and how she can continue to grow.

[41:57] Kelsey shares her most significant piece of advice, just believe in yourself.

[43:44] Thank you so much for taking the time with me on this show!

Stay Connected

Connect with Jennie

Jennie Wolff (@jenniethewolff)

Connect with Kelsey

Kelsey Morris Studio K

2. Creating Connection + The Importance of Education Apr 07, 2020

Do you long for belonging to something bigger than yourself? Listen as your host Jennie and Sola’s Culture Ambassador, Kim Bennett, continue discussing the benefits of a career with Sola Salon Studios, Kim’s nearly 16-year-long journey at Sola, and much more on this part 2 episode of the Sola Stories Podcast. If this is the first time you are tuning in, Jennie Wolff is the Chief Marketing Officer at Sola Salon Studios, and Kim is Sola’s first-ever Sola professional.

Kim shares why she believes it's so important to create and harness relationships in the beauty industry and the work you have to put in to build trust and honor. She also speaks about how she has established relationships within the Sola community all across the country using social media. Kim discusses how her local Sola community has impacted her business and tips on how a new Sola professional can create those meaningful relationships with their own Sola community.

Kim speaks about the importance of education in the beauty industry, especially for independent salon owners. She shares ways Sola helps to educate stylists and the tools she and other Sola professionals can use to grow their businesses. Kim chats about why she became a Paul Mitchell educator and how she has parlayed that partnership in her salon.

Do you want to become an educator? Listen as Kim shares advice for listeners who are thinking about becoming educators and the steps they can take to make it happen. She also stresses how important it is to make the most of your partnership with Sola. The Sola team has dedicated themselves to ensuring Sola professionals have everything they need to be successful as long as you are willing to put in the work.

If you haven't listened to part 1, you should definitely check it out, but you can also listen to this as a stand-alone conversation. So sit back, relax, and enjoy.

In This Episode

[00:26] Welcome to the Sola Stories Podcast!

[00:42] Kim, thank you for being here!

[01:01] Kim shares why it is so essential for her to have connections with people.

[03:14] Kim chats about how connecting people can be a lot of work; build trust and honor.

[07:13] How have you established relationships with your Sola community, and how has it impacted your business?

[10:25] Kim shares how she has built relationships with Sola communities all across the country.

[12:21] Kim gives tips to new Sola stylists for using social media to connect with the Sola community across the country.

[15:01] How did you build your clientele and nurture those relationships? How do you continue to grow year after year?

[17:10] Kim shares ways to confort a problematic client, and when that might be appropriate.

[19:47] Kim speaks about why continuing education is so important to independent business owners.

[21:56] How do you think Sola can help people stay educated at this time in their career?

[23:31] Kim shares why she became an educator with Paul Mitchell.

[26:17] Kim believes that combining her position as an educator with Paul Mitchell and being a salon owner at Sola is the magic she needed to be successful.

[28:58] You don't just educate on stage, but also every day with the client in your chair.

[30:08] What advice do you have for any listeners who want to become educators?

[31:56] Kim speaks about how to become an educator.

[33:34] Kim chats about how a stylist can make the most of their partnership with a brand.

[34:49] How has partnering with a brand like Paul Mitchell helped build a more substantial business for Kim Bennett Studios?

[37:05] Kim shares how people can make the most out of their relationship with the Sola brand.

[39:40] Shout out to Angela, who is producing the podcast for us.

[41:30] Kim chats about why she says you have to get uncomfortable to grow.

[43:16] Kim's last words of wisdom are for everyone to find their balance of gratitude and perspective.

Links and Resources

@solasalons

Find Kim

Kim Bennett Studios

@kimi_kisses

Instagram

1. Going Independent + Getting Started In A Salon Studio Apr 07, 2020

It all started nearly 16 years ago on a napkin at a Starbucks... Listen as your host, Jennie Wolff, and Sola’s first-ever Sola stylist, Kim Bennett, discuss why and how Kim started her nearly 16-year journey with Sola and much more on this episode of the Sola Stories Podcast.

Kim first opened her Sola studio in Denver, Colorado in 2004. Even though salon studios weren’t as common in the industry as they are now, Kim saw the opportunity, saw the heart of the company, and took a leap of faith that changed her life forever. Kim has been a sounding board for the company since the beginning to ensure that at Sola, the beauty professionals always come first.

Listen as Kim shares what inspired her to become a hairdresser, how she became a national educator for Paul Mitchell, and why she moved to Denver. Kim describes what led her to Sola, what inspires her in life and business, and how instrumental her mentors were to where she is today. She also speaks about mentorship, how seriously she takes it, and the responsibility she feels toward anyone who seeks her advice.

On this episode, Kim shares what it was about the Sola Salon Studios concept that appealed to her, her fears when she first opened, and what she was most excited as she embarked on her journey. She speaks about how her salon has evolved over the last nearly 16 years and how the redesign of her studio has given her inspiration for continued growth. Kim opens up about being a single mom and how being her own boss allows her the freedom she needs to be there for her daughter.

Kim believes that she is who she is today because of that meeting at Starbucks. Her salon at Sola isn’t just a job for Kim. Sola is her family. Jennie’s conversation with Kim isn’t over, stay tuned for part 2 because there is so much more to discuss.

In This Episode

[00:26] Welcome, everyone!

[00:41] Jennie shares her background and why she accepted the position at Sola Salon Studios.

[01:39] Jennie introduces Kim and shares a little of her inspirational journey with Sola.

[04:15] Kim, thank you so much for being on the show!

[06:43] Kim shares how she got into hairdressing and why it appealed to her.

[08:41] Kim speaks about becoming a national educator for Paul Mitchell, who led her to move to Denver.

[09:39] What led you to want to work with Sola?

[11:06] Jennie chats about what she learned from Kim, about how different types of salons are to the industry.

[12:21] Kim believes that what inspires her in life is just life. She loves the life she has and shares her joy.

[13:31] What inspires you in business?

[14:51] Kim discusses her mentors, how instrumental they are to her success, and how she feels about mentorship.

[17:35] Kim shares that Jennie has been a big part of her journey because of the fresh eyes she brought to the industry.

[19:42] Kim speaks about how she found her mentors and how she approached them.

[21:25] They chat about how social media enables you to connect with mentors that before seemed untouchable.

[22:42] What does being a mentor mean to you? How do you respond to people that reach out to you?

[24:19] Kim shares what appealed to her about the Sola model.

[26:48] Kim speaks about her fears when she first started looking to join Sola.

[28:39] What were you most excited about when you were setting up your studio that first day?

[30:02] Kim describes what has changed since the recent redesign of her studio.

[33:01] Kim shares how her business has evolved and how she continues to stay inspired to grow.

[36:10] How has Sola as a company evolved?

[38:25] Jennie speaks about the Sola Pro app, SolaGenius, and other Sola tools and programs that have helped Kim grow her business.

[39:17] Kim shares what she would say to someone who is on the fence about opening their own studio.

[41:03] Kim describes how having her studio has impacted her life outside of the salon, helping her create work-life balance.

[43:26] When you have a salon studio, you can control everything about how you work. There are no limitations.

[44:57] What one piece of advice would you give your twenty-something self if you had the chance?

[46:24] Tune in to part 2 to hear more about Kim’s journey and evolution with Sola.

Links and Resources

@solasalons

Connect with Kim

Kim Bennett Studios

@kimi_kisses

Instagram

Let’s Talk About The Beauty Industry + COVID-19 Apr 03, 2020

How is your salon handling the invasion of the coronavirus? Listen in as host, Jennie Wolff, Chief Marketing Officer at Sola Salon Studios, and her guest Kim Bennett, Sola's Culture Ambassador and the first-ever Sola stylist, discuss how the COVID-19 crisis is affecting Sola Salon Studios' independent salon owners and the greater beauty industry.

Kim (@kimi_kisses) shares how the mandated salon closures have affected her salon and her need to make sure her clients were all right. She also speaks about being lost the first few days she was home and how clearing her head helped her come up with some new ideas for the salon and how having a plan has kept her motivated.

Listen as Jennie and Kim discuss ways to generate income for your salon while you are closed and to make sure you are communicating with your clients. Kim shares how she's used Sola's salon management technology, SolaGenius, especially the app's customizable reports to help her take an in-depth look into her salon business. They speak about taking this time to set up technology to help you run your business more efficiently if you don't already have it in place, as well as the Sola Blog, resources and education that you can turn to help you navigate the COVID-19 crisis.

Have you been thinking about restructuring your business? You have the time now, so use it to change what you have wanted to change, let your new ideas shine, and get ready to be the busiest you've probably ever been once your salon doors reopen. Your clients have no other place to go, so once the mandate is lifted, they will line up to cover those roots and get back to normal.

Jennie has been focusing on supporting the Sola community from the Sola Home Office, while Kimi is on the front lines as an independent salon owner, and together, they hand out some much-needed inspiration and ideas to keep you going during his unprecedented time. If you are looking for guidance to support you through these uncharted waters, you don't want to miss this episode.

In This Episode

[00:24] Welcome, everyone!

[02:27] Kimi, thank you for being on the show.

[04:08] Kimi shares what she experienced after the state of Colorado mandated salon closures for six weeks.

[05:46] Jennie speaks about the COVID-19 task force they assembled at the Sola home office.

[07:11] Kimi's first thought was to make sure her clients were being handled.

[08:48] After the virus outbreak was your salon busy with people trying to get in before it forced them to stay home?

[09:37] Jennie tells a story about her 91-year-old grandma's willingness to stop everything except getting her hair done.

[12:14] Kimi shares how she stays motivated now that her salon is closed.

[15:56] What are you doing to generate revenue in your salon during the shutdown?

[18:21] Kimi speaks about Sola gift cards and how they are helping to generate revenue.

[20:15] Kimi chats about the plan she has for when the salon reopens.

[23:19] Are you learning how to communicate in a new way? Are you communicating with your clients?

[24:18] Kimi shares how the SolaGenius reports are helping her work on her business while she can't work in it.

[27:16] Jennie believes now is the time to set up technology for your business if you don't already have it.

[28:01] Kimi says that working with Sola has elevated her in every aspect of her life.

[29:33] Jennie shares about all the tools you can get through Sola and the blog they started.

[32:00] Kim, how are you homeschooling, communicating with your clients and taking care of your family?

[34:41] They recap taking the time now to restructure your business, change things you've wanted to change, and be ready to be very busy when you reopen.

[37:33] Make connections with each other during this time, connect with Sola on Instagram, blogs with tips, and education videos.

[38:58] Jennie reads some inspiring quotes from Faces of Sola.

[39:58] Kim gives some final thoughts for the listeners.

[41:13] Kim, thank you for sharing your words of wisdom with us.

Links and Resources:

Sola Salon Studio COVID-19 Resource Center

Follow Sola on Social: