EP324: Why is it Important to Find Industry Recognition, Validation and Approval? with Dylan McConnachie

In today episode we're joined by Adam Thomas, the innovative founder behind salonspy. In our conversation we're to discover the critical role of client reviews in the salon industry and uncover why they are more than just feedback—they are the cornerstone for building trust and driving business growth. According to Qualtrics, 96% of consumers read a review before purchasing – with 86% of those consumers specifically seeking out reviews with responses. With over 2000 salons currently using salonspy the easy-to-love (and even easier to use) review software, salonspy takes real-time insights from client feedback and provides the insight needed to help grow your business and enhance the customer experience. Adam is to walks us through how salonspy, a verified review platform, is revolutionising review management by integrating directly with salon software systems. This allows for the automatic collection of genuine reviews, making the process seamless for salon owners. Adam also delves into salonspy's journey since 2012, shedding light on the challenges faced and the evolution of their offerings to enhance user experiences with features like review moderation and Google review integration. If you're looking to leverage positive reviews to gain a competitive edge, attract more customers, and improve your services based on client feedback, this episode is laden with insights. By the end of our chat, you will appreciate how vital reviews are in building a reputable online presence and how salonspy is a valuable partner in this journey. Plus, Adam has a listeners—a one-month free trial of salonspy to see firsthand how it can enhance your salon business. Tune in to learn from Adam Thomas why nurturing client reviews is not just necessary but essential in scaling your salon business and staying ahead in the digital age.

In this week's episode of the How To Cut It podcast, we talk with Joanne Doward about her journey to becoming a college lecturer in hairdressing education, and how she's using that experience to inspire others in college hair education. With over 30 years dedicated to aspiring the next generation of stylists at West Suffolk College, in this episode, we explore the vital role college education plays in the hairdressing industry, touching upon the importance of passion, dedication, and industry collaborations. Joanne, a finalist at this year's HJ Business Awards 'Educator of the Year' and a previous finalist for the Trevor Sorbie Award in 2023, disputes the notion that college lecturers lack industry enthusiasm. She shares how many college hair lecturers strive to teach excellence and foster constructive feedback. Discover the transformative effects of competitions and networking for skills development and confidence building, and understand the significance of support from organisations like Concept Hair Magazine and the Association of Hairdressers and Therapists. Tune in for a deep dive into the benefits of hairdressing college education, the partnership between salons and colleges, and the nurturing of young talent, providing a wealth of insights for those interested in a thriving career as a hairdressing college lecturer. Don’t miss out on the wealth of knowledge and inspiration Joanne brings to the next generation of hairdressers.

In today's episode of the How to Cut It podcast, I dive into a conversation with Dylan McConnachie – 3 times finalist for the coveted British Hairdressing Awards 'Avant Garde Hairdresser of The Year' and former contestant of Channel 4's Big Blowout series. Dylan is to shed light on the significance of why it's important for him to find industry recognition, validation, and approval. I explore Dylan's quest for professional acclaim and personal fulfilment in an industry that thrives on creativity and visual appeal. Why does all the accolades matter so much to him? Delving into Dylan's experience on Channel 4's Big Blowout, he candidly discusses the challenges of showcasing his real personality on screen, drawing lessons from stepping out of his comfort zone and overcoming past experiences of bullying that shaped his confidence and resilience in the hairdressing industry. Throughout the episode, our candid dialogue explores themes of ambition, self-discovery, and the pursuit of excellence in the dynamic realm of hairdressing. Its an insightful journey of self-exploration and growth in the ever-changing world of hairdressing. Tune in to learn how Dylan' relentless pursuit of success that is driving him forward in his hairdressing career and beyond.

Join us on this week's episode of HTCI as we dive into the depths of Session Styling with Adam Garland. Adam is a renowned session stylist recognised for his innovative approach in the field of backstage hair styling education In our conversation, Adam is to lay bare his tumultuous path to success, marked by personal challenges, including overcoming drug addiction and navigating life with a disability. His raw and candid account illustrates the resilience required to rise in the industry, coupled with the critical importance of evolving from a salon stylist to a backstage expert. Adam's journey from honing his craft in the salon to shining backstage with pop culture icons like Cher offers an exclusive glimpse into the transformation that mastering product manipulation and brand building can bring to a session stylist's career. He underscores the value of recognising your worth and the economic realities of the freelance fashion world, as well as the significance of fostering a personal brand in this competitive arena. Delving deeper into Adam's professional chronicles, we see his passion for inclusion and advocacy for those with disabilities in fashion, drawing strength from his experiences with muscular dystrophy. His story is one of turning adversities into advantages. In addition to storytelling, Adam unpacks his Backstage Accelerator course, an invaluable resource for aspiring stylists focused on developing the essential skills, from creating flawless ponytails to applying wigs, to thrive in the demanding Fashion Week circuit. Tune in for a masterclass in ambition, artistry, and authentic backstage insight. Adam not only shares his profound knowledge of session styling but also imparts the intangible skills of perseverance and communication necessary for anyone aiming to make their mark in this dynamic industry. Don't miss this compelling narrative that promises to inspire and guide generations of stylists to come.

Today we kick off a new HTCI series titled "Meet The Brand". In this series, we get to explore the products, uncover the stories, delve into the vision, and discover everything in between to industry-leading and up & coming hair care brands. Get an exclusive look into what makes them unique and successful. First up in this series is Quif Hair. A colour brand who's mission is to develop a line of professional hairdressing products that champions creativity, breaks from the norm and defies stuffy corporate logic, giving you… the stylist… whatever you need to be at the top of your game. In this episode we are to get an in-depth look at the Quif professional products, delve into Quif Centre Stage - a competition that asks rising hair talent to bring their imagination from salon to stage, plus we get to discover how you could become part of their soon-to-launch art team. Joining me for this conversation is the current Quif Centre Stage winner Brooke O'Donnell, Alan Howard's Education Manager Sarah Dickenson and their Marking Manager Wendy Berry. Whether you're an aspiring hairstylist seeking a breakthrough or a seasoned professional looking to take your career to new heights, this podcast episode is required listening. So get set to unleash your creative potential and propel your hairstyling journey forward with Quif Hair.

In this episode of the How To Cut It podcast, we are joined by the incredibly talented Melissa Timperley, a rising star in the hairdressing industry. Melissa is the founder of the renowned Melissa Timperley Salons in Manchester's Northern Quarter and the brains behind MT Masterclass and the MT Masterclass App. As a multi award winning hairstylist, Melissa's extensive experience and passion for education have led her to develop a revolutionary approach to precision cutting, which is more important than ever as the demand for top-quality commercial and beautiful haircuts continues to rise. Through her MT Masterclass App and in-person MT Education, Melissa offers hair professionals like you the opportunity to take your cutting skills to the highest level, commanding top prices for your services. During the episode, we'll learn about Melissa's game-changing MT Masterclass App and her in-person bespoke precision cutting courses offered through MT Masterclass. Trust me, this is the kind of education that will set you apart and take your hair cutting to the highest level. Melissa also provides valuable insights into the art of hair cutting, discussing the importance of precision and techniquesPlus that will give you deeper understanding of the trends that are shaping the industry today.  Plus, you'll gain tips from Melissa on how to  deliver stunning haircut results you clients are wanting. If you're looking to elevate your hair cutting game, stay ahead of the curve, then this episode with Melissa is a must-listen. To fully immerse yourself in Melissa's expertise, make sure to visit MT Masterclass website HERE. Alright, let's get started. I know you're going to be blown away by everything Melissa has to share. So, grab your notepad, get comfortable, and let's learn how to cut it together.

Today we have the pleasure of hosting Chloe Swift, a leading name in the world of hair content creation. In this episode, we are diving into the exciting and emerging career pathway of a Content Hair Creator. With over 550,000 followers across her 3 main platforms, Instagram, TikTok and YouTube and  currently holding the #1 ranking in the National Hair & Beauty Federation’s Top 100 Hair & Beauty Influencer Index of 2023, Chlöe takes us on her inspiring journey that led her to become such a prominent figure in the hair industry. Recorded live in the 'HTCI PodShed Studio', throughout the conversation, we unravel the essence of being a Content Hair Creator and gain valuable insights into the challenges and triumphs that come with establishing one's brand. Discover the strategies Chloe employed to navigate the ever-evolving social media landscape and learn how she stays ahead of the curve. Join us to uncover the future trends and technologies that impact this exciting field as a Content Hair Creator. We also get a glimpse into Chloe's forward-thinking vision for the future of Content Hair Creators. If you're curious about this new career pathway in the hair industry or aspire to become a Content Hair Creator yourself, this podcast is a must-listen. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of the role, learn from Chloe's remarkable career journey, and explore the ins and outs of what it means to be a Content Hair Creator."

Todays episode we are joined by Rae Palmer, founder of WeLove Community and Education. Rae brings a fresh perspective to the hairdressing industry, emphasising holistic education and caring for hair pros. From her award-winning days at the British Hairdressing Awards to founding WeLove, Rae shares her inspiring journey and experiences. The conversation delves into the origins of WeLove as a salon concept, the challenges Rae faced, and the importance of collaboration over competition among hair professionals. Rae emphasises the need for empathy and understanding from brands toward salon owners and professionals while maintaining high industry standards. We explore the evolution of education within the hair industry, including the growth of educational opportunities and the importance of quality content and training. WeLove is highlighted as an educational platform aligned with industry values, promoting collaboration, sustainability, and community support. The concept of "hair pros" is discussed, emphasising the dedication to continuous learning and business excellence. We delve into WeLove's mission to empower the industry through community-driven initiatives and innovative educational approaches that prioritize well-being and self-care for professionals. The episode reflects on the challenges and aspirations of hair professionals, including achieving work-life balance and financial sustainability in a competitive field. The commitment to education, community empowerment, and well-being within the hair industry shines through, showcasing a dynamic landscape and a dedication to industry growth and support. Join us in this enlightening conversation with Rae Palmer of WeLove, as we explore the exciting future of the hairdressing industry together.

In this episode of How To Cut It podcast, we are joined once again by Lacey Hunter-Felton, co-founder of Hunter Collective. Theres been some changes since we last spoke in 2018, and today she takes us that journey that has seen impact and growth of her members co-working spaces for freelancers in the hair and beauty industry. We're are to delve into the dynamic world of co-working spaces and freelancers within the hairdressing industry. Lacey shares the challenges and triumphs experienced by the Hunter Collective community in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. We also explore the evolving landscape of freelancing in 2024, highlighting the resilience and adaptability of professionals in the face of adversity. Lacey also reveals the core values of Hunter Collective, emphasising the significance of lifestyle balance, independence, and community support in fostering a thriving space for creatives. We discuss the necessity of remaining brand-neutral, embracing innovation, and prioritising collaboration to drive industry advancements. The episode underscores the importance of listening, adapting, and upskilling within the hairdressing sector to stay competitive and relevant. Furthermore, we touch upon the human aspect of freelancing, the impact of technology on the industry, sustainability efforts, and the future trajectory of Hunter Collective post-COVID. Our conversation showcases the strength and innovation of hair professionals in navigating change and building a connected, forward-thinking community. To wrap up, Lacey shares her aspirations for the future of Hunter Collective, including expanding partnerships. And lastly, we would greatly appreciate your support by voting for the How To Cut It podcast for this year's Hairbrained Awards' "Industry Podcast of the Year." We are honored to be one of the 10 international podcasts nominated for this prestigious award. You can cast your vote HERE. Your vote will help us continue to bring you valuable conversations and insights from industry leaders like Lacey Hunter-Felton. Thank you for your support!

Todays podcast I'm joined by the unstoppable Claire Martin aka cLHAIR. With over a decade of experience under her belt, Claire's impact on both the Caucasian and Afro hair markets has been 'standing ovation' worthy. She's won awards in textured hair and reached the finals of E4's "The Big Blow Out" TV series, all while sharing her knowledge as an educator and becoming a Redken Brand advocate. In this conversation, Claire talks about her mission to make the world a better place through hair, highlighting the importance of representation and education in the industry. She delves into her book, "cLHAIR Mantra," which helps people understand what their hair and scalp needs through hair care, healthy diet and balanced lifestyle. For all of you hair professionals out there, Claire shares her insights on working with textured hair. She also talks about her online learning platform, the cLHAIR Online Academy which focuses on creating a more inclusive and diverse industry. Throughout the conversation, Claire emphasises the need to bridge the gap between different hair textures and empower both clients and professionals alike. Her enthusiasm for changing the industry for the better shines through in every word. Don't miss out on this conversation to hear Claire share her insights, experiences, and inspiring journey.