How To Cut It in the Hairdressing Industry

Jaksot

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  EP403: Jack Howard — Colour, Loss, & Change 14.09.2026 1t 6min

  We are thrilled to welcome the award-winning colourist and educator Nancy Stripe back again, but this time as our guest host for the How To Cut It podcast! As the owner of Stripe Colour Studio, Nancy is taking the helm for an exciting September residency, where she will be sitting down with a stellar lineup of industry experts. She kicks off her series with an absolute legend: Jack Howard. Jack is an internationally acclaimed colourist, educator, and global L’Oréal Professionnel Ambassador widely credited with bringing the balayage technique to the UK. With over 30 years of professional experience and as the founder of his namesake luxury salon in Georgetown, Jack offers a masterclass in how to stay relevant in a fast-changing market. In this episode, Jack shares his transition from traditional techniques to the modern era of soft, luminous grey blending. He discusses how to adapt teaching styles for stages versus classrooms, and why he prioritises mentorship over industry gatekeeping. They also cover the evolution of social media as a professional storytelling tool and the challenges of leading a team while navigating personal grief and life. Tune in for this inspiring, candid conversation on innovation, resilience, and the future of hairdressing.     CHAPTERS 10:38 Career Turning Points 16:29 Collaboration Over Competition 21:49 Trends, Social Media, and Change 26:45 Grey Blending’s Future 34:21 Salon Owner vs Stylist 39:39 Early Influences and Mentors 44:55 Grief and Going Back to Work 54:38 Building a New Circle 59:23 Quickfire Favorites     RESOURCES Connect with Jack Howard on Instagram @jackhowardcolor Jack Howard The Salon click HERE Book courses with Jack Howard HERE Watch  Jacks interview on YouTube HERE Connect with Nancy Stripe on Instagram @nancystripecolour Sign up to the waitlist of Spotd getspotdapp.com Connect with Spotd on Instagram @getspotdapp
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  EP402: Embrace the Grey–Nancy Stripe’s Colour‑Therapy Revolution 07.09.2026 57min

   Today I'm sitting down with a long‑overdue guest: Nancy Stripe. A proud Northerner who leads with warmth, Nancy shares how her roots shape the way she connects with clients and teaches colour—and why grey blending isn’t camouflage, it’s identity. We dive into the psychology of consultation, the emotionsshe listens for before choosing a shade, and the moment that flipped her mission toward helping clients embrace their natural canvas. Nancy unpacks how to read the spectrum from lived‑in subtlety to bold statements, where technical precision ends and the real “colour therapy” begins, and why specialisation—done deeply and ethically—elevates results for both clients and pros. We explore the rule‑bending side of modern colour (yes, including peroxides), spotting true innovation versus trend noise, and how credible education can thrive in an AI‑saturated era. Nancy Stripe is an award‑winning hair colourist, educator, and owner of Stripe Colour Studio in Handforth near Manchester, UK. She is widely recognised as a leading specialist in balayage, lived‑in colour, and natural greyblending/transitioning. Plus, big news: Nancy is taking over the mic throughout September, hosting episodes with her invited guests. Don’t miss them—subscribe to How To Cut It wherever you get your podcasts.   CHAPTERS 9:06 Grey Blending Origins 16:44 Three Grey Blending Techniques 18:28 From Accident to Online Course 25:42 L'Oréal and Career Growth 28:28 Mastery, AI, and Authentic Voice 34:17 Psychology Behind Client Consultations 40:10 Grey Hair as Business 42:58 Drive, Team, and Social Fatigue 47:29 Upcoming Podcast Takeover   RESOURCES For more on Stripe Colour Studio click HERE Connect with Nancy on Instagram @nancystripecolour Online courses with Nancy click HERE Education with Nancy click HERE Join the waitlist for Spotd by visiting getspotdapp.com Watch the conversation with Nancy on our YouTube channel @howtocutit Follow Spotd on Instagram @getspotdapp
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  EP401: The Chair Changed Everything — Rio Agor Watts (Revlon Pro Education) 03.09.2026 1t 4min

  In this episode of How To Cut It, I’m joined by Rio Agor Watts at Revlon Professional’s head office in London. Rio is Revlon's Group Education Manager for the UK and Ireland, and her job is to make sure education isn’t just “product info” — it’s practical, relevant, and actually works on the salon floor. We unpack what her role really involves, from shaping the learning experience hairdressers receive to the behind-the-scenes work that most people never see. Rio takes us through her own journey too — getting into hairdressing young, finding confidence and purpose in the salon, then moving from a large salon group into an independent and eventually into corporate education. She shares what she had to learn the hard way, and the moments that made her realise she wasn’t just a stylist, she was someone who wanted to develop others. We also get into what Rio believes the industry needs right now, especially around texture inclusivity and education that’s done with respect and integrity. She talks openly about her mixed Nigerian, white and Spanish background, how that shaped her identity and hair journey, and why asking better questions in the salon matters. Expect honest insight on confidence, communication, boundaries, and knowing your worth — from someone whose entire job is helping hairdressers grow.     RESOURCES Revlon Professional Education click HERE Connect with Revlon Professional UK on Instagram @revlonpro_education_uki Revlon Official Learning Hub click HERE Connect with Rio on Instagram @riorevlonprofessional Watch the conversation on YouTube @howtocutit   CHAPTERS 5:11 Weight Loss and Confidence 7:48 Roots and Identity 10:17 Texture Education Matters 12:05 From Money to Passion 14:08 Finding Growth at Headmasters 15:40 Leaving the Salon Machine 16:53 Why Education Wins 22:21 Joining Revlon Professional 23:57 Escaping the Doom Loop 25:52 Social Media and Booking 26:28 Educators and New Courses 28:53 Look and Learn Model 29:43 Visionaries Mentorship Programme 30:38 Championing Texture Inclusion 33:26 Neurodiversity in Education 36:20 Industry-Ready Training 37:35 Modern Work Boundaries 39:35 Ambition and Burnout 41:43 Social Battery Strain 43:22 Selling Yourself Well 44:34 The Power of Stage 46:06 What Makes Presenters Shine 48:15 Real Communication Matters 49:50 Retaining Talent Together 51:56 Charging Your Worth 54:39 Color, Care, and Scalp 56:39 Hair Loss and Growth
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  EP400: The Growth and Development Through Apprenticeships with KH Hair Group 25.08.2026 1t

  I can’t believe we’ve reached our 400th episode of How To Cut It! I couldn't think of a better way to celebrate than by tackling the power of career pathways in hairdressing through apprenticeships—something I personally owe my 40-year career to. And to top it off, having a rising star in the industry who came through the KH Group apprenticeship program join us is the absolute perfect way to mark this milestone. In this episode of How To Cut It, supported by Wella Professionals, I’m joined by KH Hair Managing Director Darren Messias, franchisee Dawn Bramhall, and award-winning stylist Amelia Krasinski to break down what makes a modern apprenticeship truly successful. With over 100 years of heritage and 19 salons, KH Hair proves that growing homegrown talent is the ultimate engine for salon longevity. Both Darren and Dawn started as apprentices and built decades-long careers—proving that when you offer clear career pathing across creative, business, and educational routes, retention looks after itself. We dive into the real talk around apprenticeship recruitment: tackling financial pressures, engaging secondary schools, and why KH Hair invests in a dedicated third "finishing year" at their academy to get young team members truly salon-ready. Plus, Amelia shares her journey from a school careers fair to winning Wella TrendVision Gold, demonstrating how strong mentorship turns ambitious apprentices into the future stars of our industry. Whether you’re a salon owner looking to strengthen your team or an educator passionate about raising industry standards, this episode is packed with practical strategies to future-proof your business.     CHAPTERS 3:53 KH Hair’s Career Journey 7:19 Finding Hairdressing Early 8:37 Why Apprenticeships Matter 10:43 Recruiting Amid Rising Costs 13:38 Spotting Passion In Interviews 16:22 Attracting Local Talent 19:27 Settling Apprentices In 20:54 Leading With Support 22:44 A Longer Training Path 25:03 Learning Through Mistakes 28:02 Handling Apprentice Doubt 31:58 Money, Motivation, And Growth 35:30 Mentorship Builds Confidence 38:26 Retention Through Opportunity 41:54 TrendVision Gold Journey 48:44 The Future Of Apprenticeships     RESOURCES Follow the KH Hair: @khhairgroup Explore the brand:khhairgroup.co.uk Upskill your talent: Wella Professionals Education Portal Connect with Wella Professionals UKI: @wellaprofessionalsuki Enter Wella Trendvison:Wella TrendVision 
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  EP399: A New Chapter in Hair — Meet K18 FutureIQ with Suveen Sahib and Tom Smith 21.08.2026 1t 8min

  Get ready to meet K18 FutureIQ™! This special episode in partnership with K18, recorded in front of a live audience at SALT Salon London, isn't just a conversation – it's a genuine line-in-the-sand moment, truly redefining hairdressing's future! I'm incredibly excited to be joined by co-founder and CEO of K18, Suveen Sahib and global brand ambassador Tom Smith. We're diving deep into the revolutionary K18 FUTUREIQ™ launch to uncover why hair longevity is not just a buzzword, but the undeniable future of proactive hair care – a future K18 FutureIQ™ is instrumental in shaping. Discover Suveen's incredible journey from high-stakes technology to bioscience, as he details the pivotal 'aha!' moments that led to profound insights into hair biology and ultimately, K18's creation through vital stylist collaboration. Tom will then equip you with salon-ready practical insights, revealing the key emerging trends and client demands poised to define the future of proactive hair care. This is profoundly game-changing: we delve into K18's revolutionary focus on premature hair aging, meticulously connecting shedding, scalp health, and even early greys directly to oxidative load within the hair follicle. Beyond the vital science, we provide your essential toolkit: how to confidently discuss this shift in the chair, who FutureIQ™ is for, its incredibly simple nightly application, and the transformative, realistic results to expect over just 30-90 days. This episode is packed with monumental lessons designed to ignite your passion, elevate your expertise, and powerfully transform your approach – from mastering hair biology to seeing hair health as smart, scalable business for your salon.    CHAPTERS 3:55 K18’s Origin Story 8:54 From Tech to Hair 12:50 Why Premature Aging Matters 20:08 Spotting Early Hair Aging 21:37 Defining Hair Longevity 27:58 Future IQ Science 33:13 Reading Hair Stress 34:36 Hair Aging vs Loss 35:56 Simple Daily Application 41:38 What to Expect 46:09 The Scalp Frontier 47:41 Salon Wellness Shift 52:10 Future Trends Ahead 54:27 Biohacking the Hair 58:47 Bridging Clients and Experts 1:01:44 Who Future IQ Suits 1:03:06 Why a Serum 1:04:11 Hairline Performance     RESOURCES CONNECT WITH K18 ON INSTAGRAM @K18hair_uk and @K18hair FIND OUT MORE ON K18 AND FUTUREIQ™ ONLINE HERE CONNECT WITH SUVEEN SAHIB ON INSTAGRAM @suveensahib CONNECT WITH TOM SMITH ON INSTAGRAM @tomsmithhd
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  EP398: Where Can Hair Take You? | Introducing WHAIR To? 10.08.2026 21min

  Where can a career in hair really take you? That’s the question at the heart of this episode—and why I’m sharing a special Whair To (W-H-A-I-R To) sampler with you. Whair To is the new short, punchy, question-led podcast from the soon to launch hair industry opportunity platform Spotd, built around real stories from people working across our industry. No heavy studio chat. No host. Just straight-to-the-point answers that show the many different routes a hairdressing or barbering career can open up. In this best-of selection, you’ll hear: Paul Corbett (Director of Advanced Education at Francesco Hair Salons) on going from apprentice to creative director, salon owner and international educator—and why simply showing up to events, learning from others, and committing to mentorship can change everything. Lawson Bliss on entering the industry almost by accident, finding his feet in Birmingham, and discovering that understanding the business side of hair can be the difference between a job and a long-term career—plus what it meant to open a salon with his mum. Jax Hirst (founder of the Never Just Hair Facebook group) on freelancing, running a home studio, building education and mentoring projects, and the realities of boundaries, energy, communication—and knowing when to ask for help. Rob Howes (Wella Professionals) on a journey that’s taken him from college to cruise ships, salon life and education, into digital and data—alongside a setback that taught him resilience and proved just how many directions this industry can take you. If you’ve ever wondered what’s possible in hair beyond the chair—or you’re looking for that spark of motivation—this one’s for you. And if you want the full stories, you can find the complete episodes by subscribing to Whair To? wherever you get your podcasts. Hit play, and see WHAIR hair can take you!   CHAPTERS 0:10 Podcast Intro 0:57 Introducing WHAIR To? 2:34 Spotd Launch 5:00 Paul’s Career Journey 8:56 Lawson’s Salon Story 11:14 Jax Builds Community 15:04 Rob’s Education Path 18:23 Wrap-Up   RESOURCES Learn more on Spotd by going to getspotdapp.com Connect with Spotd on Instagram @getspotdapp Listen and subscribe to WHAIR To? podcast on Apple Podcasts HERE Listen and subscribe to WHAIR To? podcast on Spotify HERE Connect with Rob Howes on Instagram @thewellahairguy Connect with Jax Hirst on Instagram @jaxrhair Connect with Lawson Bliss Instagram @lawsonbliss  Connect with Paul Corbett Instagram @paulcorbett.hairdresser  
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  EP397: Michael Douglas — Serving Consumers, or Selling Out? You Decide. 03.08.2026 34min

  Can a hairdresser and brand truly serve both consumers and the industry? That’s the hook of this episode—and the focus of our follow-up to our most-downloaded podcast of 2025. Recorded live at HairCon, with renowned celebrity hairstylist and founder of mdlondon, Michael Douglas. Friend of the How To Cut It podcast, Michael Douglas is back to share why he’s returned to an industry event after building a consumer-led platform and launching mdlondon tools and styling products. He argues there’s no real divide between “professional” and “consumer” because it’s the same client, and says his lockdown Instagram Lives proved that sharing expertise fuels salon bookings rather than replacing them. Michael addresses the industry backlash he faced, charts mdlondon’s evolution—from a shelved cordless concept during lockdown supply issues to early sales struggles and a Black Friday turnaround—and urges hairdressers to share knowledge, go live to attract clients, and help bring new talent into the industry. This is a conversation you’ll have an opinion on, either way!   Chapters   4:19 Lockdown Consumer Pivot 11:12 Lives Build Demand 15:58 MD London Origin 18:47 Shampoo Myths 20:05 Retailing in Salons 25:22 Building the Next Generation 27:17 Breaking Into Celebrity 29:14 Education and Opportunity 31:04 Salon Partnership Deal     Resources MD London Website: mdlondon.com  MD London on Instagram: @mdlondon HairCon on Instagram @hairconshow Spotd App find out more getspotdapp.com Connect with Spotd on Instagram @getspotdapp How To Cut It on Instagram @howtocutit  
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  EP396: Are you charging your worth—if not, why not? 30.07.2026 37min

  Still guessing your prices? If you’re a freelance hairdresser or salon owner who feels guilty raising rates, this episode is your permission slip—and your plan. In this How To Cut It panel, Georgia Bell, Ruth Lundstrum (Freelance Suite), Samantha Toogood, and Samantha Blues reveal why hair pros undercharge and how to price with confidence. We strip emotion from money, swap rigid menus for bespoke, hair-type packages, and build pricing that covers wages, tax/VAT, profit, pensions, sick pay, education, and cancellations. Ruth busts the “clients can’t afford it” myth—spending is a choice—and shares real numbers, including intentionally outpriced services that prove value sells. Learn when to raise prices, how to stay booked, and the differences between salon and solo realities, plus the financial gaps NVQs leave behind. CHAPTERS 0:05: Pricing Playbook Kickoff 7:47: VAT, Value, and Priorities 11:19: Real Rates, Real Services 18:10: Fear, Packages, and Price Hikes 20:31: Money, Greed, and Freedom 24:40: Educate, Earn, and Level Up 25:54: Business Basics and Profit 27:34: Comfortable Living Defined 28:36: Property, Branding, and Pensions 31:16: Financial Education for All RESOURCES REGISTER TO JOIN SPOTD HERE FREELANCER SUITE CLICK HERE SAMANTHA BLUES CSI CLICK HERE GEORGIA BELL EDUCATION CLICK HERE @georgiagracebell/ @ruth__lund @samanthabluescolourcoach @toogood_hair_well_being_
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  EP395: The Secret Garden’s Gender‑Neutral Salon Playbook 20.07.2026 48min

  In today’s episode, Dom chats with Darren Cunningham and George Waterfield, owners of Leicester’s The Secret Garden, on building a truly welcoming, LGBTQ+ inclusive salon—and why inclusion is both practical and profitable. Hear how they opened at speed, navigated Leicester’s lockdown from a family garage, and replaced “ladies/gents” with gender‑neutral, length‑ and time‑based pricing. They share lessons on risk‑taking, constant education, and turning hate toward their Pride flag into powerful community solidarity, culminating in a 140‑person drag‑queen re‑raising. Plus, their growth playbook: DMing influencers, smart pro bono collabs that led to Netflix premiere work and headline moments, and brand partnerships with L’Oréal. If you want culture, pricing, and marketing strategies that actually move the needle, this one’s for you. Hit Play!     CHAPTERS 2:36: Pricing Without Labels 5:02: Hairdressing Journeys 8:03: How They Met 9:13: Strengths In Partnership 13:01: From Idea To Salon 15:00: COVID Garage Pivot 17:46: Influencer Wins 20:26: Kate Price Event 22:57: Finding Inclusive Pricing 24:56: Gender-Neutral Pricing 28:02: Brand Impact 29:16: Hate And The Flag 30:53: Community Support Rally: 32:50: Simple Inclusion Steps 34:07: Rethinking The Menu 36:13: Awards And Brands 38:35: Saying Yes To Growth 39:41: Dreaming Bigger 43:36: Future Goals   EPISODE RESOURCES Connect with The Secret Garden on Instagram @thesecretgardenhair DISCOVER TODAY SPONSORS KERATIN COMPLEX PRODUCTS HERE
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  EP394: Hair Colour Ingredient Truths with Wella’s Ursus Schweitzer 07.07.2026 37min

  Are scary ingredient headlines warping your colour decisions? In this episode brought to you by Wella Professionals UKI, we’re joined by Ursus Schweitzer—an R&D connector who bridges the lab and the salon floor. He observes how productsare really used, then translates complex chemistry into clear, salon-ready truths. Ursus cuts through the noise and decode what’s really inside the bottle so you can make smarter choices and educate clients with confidence. You’ll learn how to separate study-based evidence from clickbait, why full formulations and purpose-built systems (including alkalizers) matter more than single “hero” or “villain” ingredients, how credible sourcing, biodegradability, and sustainability guide modern development, and practical ways to translate science into salon language. An episode perfect for hairdressers and salon owners who are ready to swap noise for knowledge. Hit play!     CHAPTERS 6:32: Why Ingredients Matter Now 10:54: Ammonia Versus MEA 16:15: The Truth About Controversial Ingredients 21:06: Talking Confidence With Clients 23:08: Busting Ammonia Myths 26:05: Responding To Ingredient Concerns 28:24: The Future Of Formulation 33:13: Curiosity Over Caution   RESOURCES FOR MORE ON WELLA EDUCATION CLICK HERE VISIT WELLA STORE HERE CONNECT WITH WELLA PROFESSIONALS UKI ON INSTAGRAM @WELLAPROFESSIONALSUKI
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  EP393: Stop Guessing Hair Colour—You’re Gambling with People’s Hair, with Samantha Blues 08.06.2026 37min

  What if colour work could be approached less like guesswork and more like investigation? In this episode I'm joined by Samantha Blues, founder of Colour Science Investigation, who explains her crime-scene-style framework for helping stylists move from guessing to predicting in colour. Samantha discusses why many stylists are taught to focus on the finished look rather than what is happening inside the hair, and why hair reading, residue, underlying pigment and consultation questions are essential. She also covers toners, colour correction and the limits of relying on formulas alone, saying the goal is to build confidence, structure and better client communication. Hit Play!   CHAPTERS 5:03: Why the Industry Fails Stylists 10:10: Toning Without Panic 12:24: Samantha’s Personal Turning Point 14:43: What Makes Great Colour 15:44: Stronger Consultations, Better Results 18:19: Hidden Colour Problems Exposed 20:15: Simplifying the Science 22:24: Inside the Six-Week Course 22:56: Why This Course Matters 25:27: Finding Time to Learn 27:11: Confidence, Loyalty, and Pricing Power 30:10: Facing Embarrassment and Learning 31:22: Brand Neutral and Accessible 33:09: Why Guessing Leads to Disaster     EPISODE RESOURCES FOR ALL COURSES AND MORE WITH SAMANTHA BLUES VISIT HERE CONNECT WITH SAMANTHA ON INSTAGRAM @SAMANTHABLUESCOLOURCOACH DISCOVER TODAY SPONSORS KERATIN COMPLEX PRODUCTS HERE TICKETS TO HAIRCON CLICK HERE USE CODE HTCI10 FOR 10% DISCOUNT
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  EP392: Hairstylists Belong On Stage! 23.05.2026 18min

  What if the thing holding your career back isn't your skill—but your fear of being seen? In this episode, I break down why stage work matters for hairdressers and barbers. It builds confidence, sharpens your communication, and transforms how you show up behind the chair. I explore how performing unlocks creativity you didn't know you had. How it opens doors to educator roles, brand work, and art teams. And why live visibility still hits different in a world dominated by algorithms. I also share my own journey learning stage craft—and introduce SHAIR! UNDRGRND, a raw, unfiltered stage format I created for rising talent. Plus, I announce SHAIR! UNDRGRND at HairCon Manchester, 14-15 June. Ready to take your first step onto stage? Hit play.     EPISODE RESOURCES APPLY FOR A STAGE SPOT AT SHAIR! UNDRGRND HERE GET TICKETS TO HAIRCON HERE (USE CODE HTC10 FOR 10% OFF ALL TICKET PURCHASE) FOLLOW SHAIR! ON INSTAGRAM @WEARESHAIR CONNECT WITH DOM ON INSTAGRAM @DOMLEHANE CONNECT WITH HOW TO CUT IT ON INSTAGRAM @HOWTOCUTIT FIND OUT MORE ON TODAYS PAID SPONSORS KERATIN COMPLEX HERE     CHAPTERS 0:11: Stage Work Matters 2:41: Better Behind the Chair 4:25: Creative Freedom Onstage 4:55: Getting Noticed Live 7:01: Why Live Still Wins 7:41: My Stage Journey 9:42: Creating New Platforms 11:11 SHAIR! UNDRGRND Explained 12:16: Community and Culture 13:52: HairCon Takeover 16:52: Bigger Plans Ahead
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  EP391: Hairdressers & Barbers: Sick of the Algorithm? 11.05.2026 49min

  What if your next job, chair, brand deal, or education booking didn’t come from battling an algorithm—but from one app built only for the hair industry? Meet Spotd! In this episode of How To Cut It, I’m Dom Lehane, and I’m joined by my fellow Spotd co-founders Richard England-Lee and Ollie Johns to break down Spotd—our soon to launch iOS and Android opportunity platform designed for hairdressers, barbers, salon owners, educators, and brands. We share why we built it, what problems it solves, and what you can expect at launch. Think location-based opportunity alerts, curated profiles that work like a portfolio/CV, and a cleaner, more professional way to connect—without the noise of social media. We’re building Spotd in public, and your feedback matters. Want early access (and a chance to test it)? Join the waitlist at getspotdapp.com. If you’re ready for your next big move in the hair industry—or just want to learn more—press play!     Episode Resources JOIN THE SPOTD WAITLIST: VISIT GETSPOTDAPP.COM CONNECT WITH SPOTD ON INSTAGRAM @GETSPOTDAPP FOLLOW SPOTD ON TIKTOK @GETSPOTDAPP GET TICKETS FOR HAIRCON VISIT HERE : (USE CODE HTCI10 FOR 10% DISCOUNT) CONNECT WITH HAIRCON ON INSTAGRAM @HAIRCONSHOW FOLLOW HOW TO CUT IT ACROSS SOCIALS @HOWTOCUTIT     Chapters 0:40 Introducing Spotd 2:27 Meet the Co-Founders 3:47 The Importance of Spotd 5:40 Transitioning to the Hair Industry 7:02 What Is Spotd? 8:59 Solving Industry Problems 11:58 How Does Spotd Work? 12:33 User Experience and Profiles 15:09 Opportunities and Connections 19:04 Building the App 22:43 Building In Public 25:46 Project Features 30:12 Engaging with the Community 34:57 Event Management on Spot 38:58 Future Plans for Spotd 48:15 The Game-Changing Vision
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  EP390: The Real Business of Hair Extensions with Remi Cachet founder, Victoria Lynch 04.05.2026 1t 4min

  Ever thought about adding hair extensions to your menu, but stopped because you’re not sure how to learn them properly, the return on investment, or whether the hair is ethically sourced? In this HTCI x Remi Cachet partnered episode, I sit down with Remy Cachet founder Victoria Lynch to get into the real questions: what responsible sourcing and sustainability actually mean in the extensions world, what salons should be asking suppliers, and where the red flags are. We also break down the learning curve—how to move from “extensions-curious” to confidently offering them as a professional service, what training should include, and why consistency, standards and support matter just as much as the hair itself. If you want to build a new revenue stream without compromising your values, this conversation will give you clarity and a practical way forward.   Chapters 4:53: Understanding Hair Issues 6:52: Passion for Hairdressing 8:25: The Rise of Remi Cachet 9:55: Ethical Considerations in Hair Extensions 12:20: Achieving B Corp Certification 14:51:  Sustainable Practices in Packaging 17:17: Global Expansion Plans 18:57: Supporting the Next Generation 20:11: Red Flags in Choosing Suppliers 28:23: Innovation and Adaptation in Extensions 38:12: The Super Stylist Community 43:55: Education and Training Changes 49:58: Giving Back Through Change A Girl's Life 1:00:05: Future Aspirations and Market Growth   Resources from todays episode FOR MORE ON REMI CACHET VISIT REMICACHET.COM CONNECT WITH REMI CACHET ON INSTAGRAM @REMICACHET CONNECT WITH VICTORIA ON INSTAGRAM @VICTORIAREMICACHET
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  EP389: The Brutally Honest Reality of Becoming a Session Stylist with Anna Chapman 28.04.2026 1t

  Want to become a session stylist? This episode with Anna Chapman is the practical route in — not the fantasy. I’m back in the HTCI PodShed with Anna Chapman, a leading session hair stylist with an instinctive understanding of hair and over a decade in top salons before moving into the session world. Todaywe’re to have real catch-up since we last spoke in 2020 podcast episode. Anna breaks down the actual steps to get into session work today: how to position yourself if you’re coming from salon, why session styling is a different job entirely, and what you need to do first to get on set. We get into the assisting ladder (what assistants really do, how to reach out, how to follow up, and how to get yourself rebooked), plus the skills that matter when the pressure’s on for major brands. Anna also shares what to post on Instagram if you want work—how to show range, not just “glam”—and why persistence, visibility and standards are the long game. If you’re serious about building a career in session hair, start here.   CHAPTERS 1:25: Breaking into Session Styling 6:47: The Reality of Assisting 12:21: Getting Paid as an Assistant 15:04: Defining Session Stylists 19:35: The Importance of Communication 23:11: Challenges for Women in the Industry 27:20: The Competitive Landscape 34:33: The Path to Success 37:49: The Importance of Apprenticeships 43:09: The Role of Social Media 50:26: How to Become an Assistant   RESOURCES FROM TODAYS EPISODE FOLLOW ANNA CHAPMAN ON INSTAGRAM @ANNACHAPMANHAIR FOR EVERYTHING SESSION KIT CLICK HERE  CONNECT WITH SESSION KIT ON INSTAGRAM @SESSIONKIT GET TICKETS FOR HAIRCON VISIT HERE : (USE CODE HTCI10 FOR 10% DISCOUNT) CONNECT WITH HAIRCON ON INSTAGRAM @HAIRCONSHOW FOLLOW HOW TO CUT IT ACROSS SOCIALS @HOWTOCUTIT
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  EP388: James Earnshaw & Jordanna Cobella – Hair Innovations Led (What Hairdressers Need to Know) 20.04.2026 34min

  In this weeks episode we go behind the scenes of hair colour innovation in a podcast partnership with Wella Professionals UKI. We're joined by James Earnshaw (Global Wella Professionals Ambassador) and Jordanna Cobella (award-winning salon owner and Wella Colour and Trends Ambassador) and together they'll be breaking down what really happens when hairdressers help shape professional hair products. They'll be talking BlondorPlex developments, Ultimate Colour, and the real-world feedback that changes formulas, speeds up services, and improves consistency behind the chair. You’ll hear how to translate “new tech” into simple client language, protect your results between visits, and position professional products without awkward selling. If you want stronger blonding outcomes, cleaner toning workflows, and a smarter way to explain fade, maintenance, and pricing—this episode is packed with practical takeaways you can use in the salon straight away. Hit play and enjoy!     Chapters 3:08: Behind the Scenes with Wella Professionals 3:16: Insights from R&D Development 6:32: Collaboration for Product Innovation 9:38: Creating Unique Toner Shades 18:45: Bridging Science and Hairdressing 21:42: The Importance of Client Communication 22:54: Packaging and Pricing Strategies 25:25: Understanding Color Longevity 28:29: The Evolution of Hairdressing Careers     Resources from todays episode: FOR MORE ON BLONDORPLEX CLICK HERE FOR MORE ON ULTIMATE COLOR CLICK HERE VISIT WELLA STORE HERE WELLA EDUCATION CLICK HERE CONNECT WITH WELLA PROFESSIONALS UKI ON INSTAGRAM @WELLAPROFESSIONALSUKI FOLLOW WELLA PROFESSIONALS UKI ON TIKTOK @HOUSEOFWELLAUKI WATCH THE PODCAST INTERVIEW ON YOUTUBE HERE @HOWTOCUTIT CONNECT WITH HOW TO CUT IT ON INSTAGRAM @HOWTOCUTIT FOLLOW HOW TO CUT IT ON TIKTOK @HOWTOCUTIT      
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  EP387: Broke, Bruised, and BACK! – Alex Walker’s No-Excuses Return to the Top 13.04.2026 45min

  Welcome to Part 1 of a two-part series where I’m joined by Alex Walker—a Torquay-based haircutting specialist, educator and the founder of AW Hair and Alex Walker Education. We recorded this episode inside Alex’s purpose-built education studio in Torquay, Devon (UK)—a dedicated space away from the salon where hairdressers can learn through in-person sessions, small groups, and online education, while staying connected to real, commercial salon work. Alex’s journey began at 17, when he fell into hairdressing almost by accident. What started as a job became a craft. He went all-in on haircutting—especially short hair—with a mission to raise standards and help hairdressers understand the why behind what they do. We dig into the realities of ambition, rapid growth, and salon ownership—and the moment everything changed. After his businesses went into liquidation, Alex was left asking: “I haven’t got five days’ worth of clients… what am I gonna do now?” This is a powerful conversation on resilience, rebuilding, and staying commercially relevant.     Chapters: 11:11: The Journey of Self-Belief 21:27: Transitioning from Hairdresser to Salon Owner 22:54: The Hard Lessons of Business 27:55: The Shift to Education 32:34: Financial Insights and Stability 38:30: Balancing Family and Career Dreams     Resources from todays episode: Join the waitlist for Spotd HERE Follow Spotd on Instagram @getspotdapp Alex Walker Salon CLICK HERE  Connect with Alex on Instagram @alexwalkereducation Alex Walker online haircutting education HERE For everything else Alex Walker CLICK HERE View our video podcast with Alex Walker on YouTube @howtocutit Connect with How To Cut It on Instagram @howtocutit  
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  EP386: (Classic Rerun 2019) The Eugene Souleiman Story 03.04.2026 1t 7min

  In this How To Cut It 'Classic Rerun' podcast recording  from April 2019, we revisit a powerful conversation with Eugene Souleiman, one of the world's most respected session hairstylists in the fashion world. Eugene shares his journey from humble beginnings in South East London to becoming a global icon in editorial and runway hairdressing. He reflects on training with legendary hairdresser Trevor Sorbie and explains why mastering technical skills is essential before breaking creative boundaries. We dive into the fast-paced world of session styling — from preparing for runway shows to making quick decisions under pressure. Eugene discusses designer collaborations and why creating a complete look goes beyond just hair. Perfect for hairdressers, session stylists, and hair artists seeking inspiration to grow their craft and think bigger creatively. #EugeneSouleiman #SessionStylist #Hairdressing #HairPodcast #RunwayHair   Chapters 2:31: The Launch of Spotd 5:11: Introducing Eugene Souleiman 6:06: Eugene's New Studio 8:50: Moving to the Countryside 10:06: Working on a Book 13:45: Reflecting on Early Career 17:37: Discovering Hairdressing 21:19: Treasuring Client Relationships 23:16: Working with Trevor Sorbie 27:57: The Journey of Creativity 30:35: Session Styling Realities 35:39: Passion for Hair 37:45: Finding Your Mojo 49:17: Understanding the Culture Shift 56:27: A Return to Education 1:01:45:  Quick Fire Questions   Resources from todays episode JOIN THE WAITLIST TO THE NEW SPOTD APP LAUNCHING SUMMER 2026 GETSPOTDAPP.COM CONNECT WITH SPOTD ON INSTAGRAM @GETSPOTDAPP FOLLOW SPOTD ON TIKTOK @GETSPOTDAPP CONNECT WITH EUGENE SOULEIMAN ON INSTAGRAM @EUGENSOULEIMAN FOR MORE ON HAIR MASTERY WITH EUGENE SOULEIMAN CLICK HERE CONNECT WITH HAIR MASTERY ON INSTAGRAM @HAIR_MASTERY  
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  EP385: Next-Gen Legacy (Part 3) — Strategy, Culture & Growth with Tash Grossman + Tilly Capel 23.03.2026 24min

  We wrap up our “Next Gen Legacy” mini-series, created in collaboration with Wella Professionals UKI, with hosts Tasha Grossman (CEO, Hobbs Salons) and Tilly Capel (Operations Director, Lara Johnson Lifestyle). In this final episode, we explore how modern salons are evolving and why ongoing education is essential to staying relevant. From guest-artist swap days to smarter training, we share practical ways to keep teams inspired and skills sharp. We also dive into rebuilding client visit frequency post-COVID and making sure services and pricing reflect today’s expectations. Tasha shares what’s worked with subscription offers like the Blow Dry Club, while Tilly reveals plans for a retail subscription. Throughout the conversation, we focus on what fuels sustainable growth: continuous learning, strong direction, and a community-first salon culture that keeps clients loyal and teams motivated.   Chapters 9:17: Focus on Education for 2026 14:52:  Driving Client Frequency 19:45: The Importance of Feedback     Resources from todays episode Wella Professionals Store HERE Wella Professionals UKI on Instagram @wellaprofessionalsuki Wella Professionals Education HERE Wella Professionals UKI on TikTok HERE HOB Salons on Instagram @hob_salons Lara Johnson Lifestyle on Instagram @larajohnsonlifestyle Watch on How To Cut It YouTube Channel HERE How To Cut It on Instagram @howtocutit How To Cut It on TikTok @howtocutit
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  EP384: Next-Gen Legacy (Part 2) —Stepping Into Leadership in Family-Run Salons with Tash Grossman + Tilly Capel 16.03.2026 42min

  Episode two of our three-part mini-series Next Gen Legacy explores leadership in family-run salon businesses. A How To Cut It podcast series in partnership with Wella Professionals UKI, this episode features its hosts Tash Grossman (CEO, HOB Salons) and Tilly Capel (Operations Director, Lara Johnson Lifestyle) on what it takes to step into authority, modernise operations, and protect a legacy. In today's conversation Tash opens up about moving beyond “the founder’s daughter,” driving performance, and making tough calls—including closing the HOB Camden Academy and launching a new education partnership with Wella Professionals. While Tilly reveals how feedback-led culture, flexible policies, and smart structures help retain talent and support teams. Expect honest lessons on identity, change management, and building a salon that works for today’s clients and careers. Hit play.   Chapters 16:29: Leadership in Family Businesses 28:40: Closing the HOB Camden Academy 32:59: Partnership with Wella Professionals 37:44: Challenges and Opportunities in Business   Resources from todays episode Wella Professionals Store HERE Wella Professionals UKI on Instagram @wellaprofessionalsuki Wella Professionals Education HERE Wella Professionals UKI on TikTok HERE HOB Salons on Instagram @hob_salons Lara Johnson Lifestyle on Instagram @larajohnsonlifestyle Watch on How To Cut It YouTube Channel HERE How To Cut It on Instagram @howtocutit How To Cut It on TikTok @howtocutit