The Modern Hairstylist ™ Podcast

Latest Episodes:

State of the Industry, Your Mindset, Inflated Success of 2020-2022 (LIVE Recording) Aug 13, 2023

Show notes

Step into my world at The Modern Hairstylist Podcast, where I, Hunter Donia, your host and an experienced industry insider, invite you to an engaging episode that delves deep into the transforming landscape of the hairstyling realm. Join me as I share a riveting live coaching session, a special peek into my mastermind program. This invaluable content is now available to all of you, ensuring everyone can tap into its content.

In this candid episode, I bring you into enlightening conversations I've had with dynamic entrepreneurs making waves in their respective businesses. Drawing from my own experiences, I dissect the current state of the industry and explore the shifting patterns of consumer behavior. I'm thrilled to pass on the insights I've gained from discussions with seven and eight-figure entrepreneurs. Despite feeling like a small fish in these groups, I've embraced the role of a learner and now bring these invaluable lessons directly to you.

Together, let's embark on a journey of recalibration. I'm here to help you reshape your perspective on your business, to shed old notions and comparisons, and to usher in a fresh approach. Acknowledge that your current position is exactly where you're meant to be amidst rapidly changing times. The inflated successes of 2020-2022 are giving way to new realities, and it's essential to adapt with an open mind.

As we navigate the unpredictability inherent in the business world, I offer a dose of candid tough love. Discover the significance of automation and systems in driving growth for modern hairstylist businesses. I bring you insights from Fortune 500 companies, showing the increasing adoption of these strategies for staying ahead. With a focus on tracking your numbers, I unveil the power of discerning real growth avenues and dispel misconceptions tied to client preferences.

Allow me to guide you towards a refreshed mindset and renewed strategies for success in the ever-evolving hairstyling industry. Join me in this illuminating episode, and together, we'll embrace a new way of thinking that empowers your journey as an independent hairstylist.

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Dos & Don'ts of Building Your Website Aug 06, 2023

Show notes

Welcome to another episode of "The Modern Hairstylist Podcast"! In this episode, I'll be guiding you through the do's and don'ts of building your beauty business website. As a fellow beauty professional, I understand how daunting this process can be, but fear not! I'm here to make it simpler and painless for you.

Throughout this episode, you'll discover essential do's that will elevate your website's appeal and functionality. I'll share tips on creating compelling content, using captivating visuals, and ensuring an intuitive navigation experience for your visitors.

Additionally, I'll help you avoid common pitfalls with crucial don'ts that can hinder your online presence. By highlighting these mistakes, you'll be better equipped to overcome them and establish a strong digital footprint for your beauty business.

Building your website shouldn't be overwhelming, regardless of your tech background. I'll break down the process into manageable steps, empowering you to approach it with confidence. Whether you're a tech-savvy entrepreneur or a total beginner, you'll find value in these insights.
Enjoy the episode!

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Major Client Experience Opportunities You're Missing Out On Jul 30, 2023

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Welcome back to The Modern Hairstylist Podcast! In this episode, I am delving into the often overlooked and underestimated aspect of hairstylist businesses—the client experience.
I am passionate about creating an exceptional client experience which will significantly impact your business's success and lead to organic referrals.

I am sharing simple yet powerful strategies that every hairstylist should implement with their clients. Right from giving new clients a warm tour of the salon space to saying goodbye to them at the door just before they leave.

There is superpower also in the after-style consultation, where you can solidify your client's satisfaction and retention.

Join me today in revolutionizing your hairstylist business by focusing on these client experience opportunities. Implement my proven strategies and witness how a small shift in your approach can lead to tremendous growth and success in your independent hairstyling journey.

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Why I Eliminated Tipping: The Impact that it Had and What To Consider Jul 23, 2023

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Welcome to another thought-provoking episode of The Modern Hairstylist Podcast, hosted by Hunter Donia.
In this controversial episode, I delves into the topic of "Eliminating Tipping: The Impact that it Had and What To Consider." I am speaking candidly about my personal journey and experiences behind my decision to go gratuity-free in my business.
I am discussing the reasons that led to removing tipping, and what you should consider if you are contemplating this change, and the strategy behind rolling out such a shift in your pricing structure.
I want to emphasizes that this is my perspective is not a definitive answer, I recognize that the decision to eliminate tipping is subjective and dependent on individual circumstances.

I also addressing the conversation surrounding the racist history behind tipping and the considerations I made as an ally for diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging within the beauty industry.

As the CEO and business owner, I urge you to make decisions aligned with your core values and business goals. Whether you choose to keep tipping, eliminate it, or adjust prices, the key is to operate legally, stay financially responsible, and maintain alignment with your own values.
Join me in this candid, eye-opening conversation about the impact of eliminating tipping in the beauty industry.

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Dos & Don’ts of a Digital Consultation Form (why yours isn't working) Jul 16, 2023

Show notes

Welcome back to the Modern Hairstylist podcast! I'm your host, Hunter Donia.
In this episode titled "Do's & Don'ts of a Digital Consultation Form (why yours isn't working)," I dive into the incredible potential of digital forms to transform your hairstyling business. Drawing from my own experiences and success stories from my students, I reveal how these forms can streamline operations and accelerate growth. Join me as I provide in-depth insights and practical strategies for optimizing your digital forms to achieve the results you desire.

Throughout the episode, I emphasize the importance of nurturing your clients through a well-crafted website journey before introducing them to a digital form. While social media and online reviews provide some information, it is crucial to have a personalized website that speaks directly to your clients' pain points and showcases the possibilities they can expect. I reveal the marketing and sales potential of a website and offer practical tips on optimizing its copy to engage potential clients and encourage them to book appointments.

Join me on this enlightening episode of the Modern Hairstylist podcast as I share my journey with digital consultation forms and offer practical strategies to optimize them for exceptional results. Don't miss out on the opportunity to revolutionize your hairstyling business with streamlined digital processes and a customer-centric approach. Tune in now and unlock the full potential of digital forms in your journey to success.
Other episodes referenced today: 5 Unique Metrics to Track The Health of Your Business

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Embracing Accountability: Navigating the Anxieties of Change and Growth as a CEO Jul 09, 2023

Show notes

Welcome back to The Modern Hairstylist Podcast! In this episode, Hunter Donia dives deep into the anxieties and fears associated with change, both personal and professional.
He offers candid insights about the complexities of navigating change as a business owner and confronting the uncomfortable elements of growth and evolution. Drawing from his own experiences, he discusses the critical importance of embracing failure and using it as a stepping stone to success.
Hunter emphasizes the need to overcome fears of failure, imposter syndrome, and the hard work needed to achieve business growth, such as raising prices. He encourages listeners to tap into their past experiences and future aspirations to drive their present actions.
This episode is an empowering call to action, urging individuals to take responsibility, utilize their resources, and step up their game to catalyze change. Tune in for a motivational push and some invaluable advice on how to handle the uneasy yet essential process of change.

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The "Toxic Hustle Culture" Debate Jul 02, 2023

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Welcome back to another episode of The Modern Hairstylist Podcast! In this episode, I am joined by the wonderful Kaitlyn Granger and we dive into the hot topic of "Toxic Hustle Culture."
We discuss the ongoing debate surrounding the pushback against hustle culture, particularly from the younger generation. This conversation centers around finding a balance between working hard and taking care of oneself.

Kaitlyn sheds light on the generational differences in perspectives on work and highlights the fact that this debate has existed throughout history. With the rise of social media, the debate has become more amplified and relevant due to changing economic conditions and the rising cost of living.

We want this episode to serve as your reminder that it is crucial to understand when to stop and reap the benefits of hard work. Continuously overworking without taking time for oneself can lead to unhappiness and a lack of fulfillment in the long run. It is essential to build a life that is not solely focused on work but also encompasses personal growth and happiness.

Tune in to this insightful episode to gain a deeper understanding of the toxic hustle culture debate and learn valuable lessons about finding the right balance in your own journey.
Connect with Kaitlyn over on Instagram @kaitlynmgranger or check her out at www.reelhairstylist.com

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10 Coping Mechanisms for ADHD Entrepreneurs Jun 25, 2023

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Welcome back to another episode of The Modern Hairstylist Podcast! In this episode titled "10 Coping Mechanisms for ADHD Entrepreneur," I delve into the challenges faced by ADHD entrepreneurs and share my personal coping mechanisms. As someone with ADHD, I understand the struggles of navigating different directions and constantly battling distractions. In this episode, I emphasize the importance of acknowledging ADHD's impact on our daily lives and the negative self-perceptions that can arise from it.
However, I also highlight the fact that ADHD does not define our worth. By embracing self-awareness and implementing effective strategies, we can harness our strengths as creative and passionate business owners while overcoming the hurdles ADHD presents.
I discuss the importance of setting realistic expectations. Recognizing our patterns and limitations allows us to avoid overcommitting and setting ourselves up for failure.

I address the topic of meditation. I share my initial skepticism and highlight alternative approaches that can be equally effective. I also dive into practical advice tailored specifically to business owners with ADHD.
And most importantly, I emphasize the significance of being kind to oneself. Often, ADHD individuals struggle to show up for themselves and feel immense guilt and anxiety as a result.

Join me on this episode as I share my personal journey and coping mechanisms for ADHD entrepreneurs. While the struggles may persist, embracing self-care, realistic expectations, and mindfulness can empower us to thrive in our businesses while nurturing our overall well-being. Don't miss out on these valuable insights and strategies to create a successful and fulfilling life as an ADHD entrepreneur.

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5 Ways to Reduce Last Minute Cancellations & No Shows Jun 18, 2023

Show notes

In the latest episode of The Modern Hairstylist Podcast, I am delving into the pressing issue of last-minute cancellations and no-shows in the hairstyling industry. As professionals face challenges in maintaining a consistent schedule, I explore effective strategies to address this problem while ensuring a positive client experience. Tune in to discover practical solutions that can help hairstylists overcome scheduling hurdles and enhance their business operations.

I want to emphasize the importance of implementing smart systems and boundaries to minimize the occurrence of last-minute cancellations and no-shows. By exploring innovative approaches and industry insights, hairstylists can gain valuable knowledge to optimize their client experience.
Join me in this episode as I share expert advice and practical tips that can make a significant difference in managing appointments and ensuring client commitment.

If you're interested in discovering new ways to improve your hairstyling business and reduce the impact of scheduling conflicts, this episode is a must-listen. Tune in to explore effective strategies that can transform the way you handle appointments and enhance client satisfaction. Don't miss out on this insightful discussion that will equip you with the tools you need to thrive in the hairstyling industry.
Past episodes referenced in this episode:
When Should You Charge The Cancellation Fee?
The Truth About Stopping Pre-Booking - Dangers, Answers, & Strategies

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Are Automations, Boundaries & Systems a Buzzkill for Client Experience? Jun 11, 2023

Show notes

Welcome to another episode of The Modern Hairstylist Podcast, a business podcast for independent hairstylists hosted by me, Hunter Donia.
In this episode titled "Are Automations, Boundaries & Systems a Buzzkill for Client Experience?", I explore the misconceptions surrounding technology and automation in the salon industry. I speak about the importance of maintaining a human touch while leveraging technology to enhance the client experience.
Did you know that you can utilize an easy form to send personalized emails to clients, including personal notes, retail recommendations, maintenance instructions, and booking suggestions. By automating these emails, you can demonstrate their attention to detail and create a more personalized experience.
The episode also delves into the benefits of automation for new client retention, the importance of following up with clients and addressing any concerns or questions they may have after their first visit. By automating follow-up emails, you can significantly increase new client retention rates and build trust with your clientele.
I want to remind you that you should take responsibility as customer experience designers and ensure that your client's expectations align with your business practices. By seeking client feedback and making the client experience more convenient, you can cultivate loyalty and trust.
Past episodes referenced in this episode: 5 Unique Metrics to Track The Health of Your Business

Let's connect on Instagram!