EP389: The Brutally Honest Reality of Becoming a Session Stylist with Anna Chapman

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

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

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

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

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

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

Inspired by International Women’s Day, Next-Gen Legacy is a new three-part mini-series hosted by Tash Grossman and Tilly Capel, in partnership with Wella Professionals UK & Ireland. The series spotlights the next generation of female leaders modernising family-run salon businesses while protecting what makes them special. In Episode 1, “Our Story,”Tash (CEO of HOB Salons) shares her rise from Saturday girl to leading a legacy brand. Tilly (Operations Director at Lara Johnson Lifestyle) explains why she first chose law, then returned with a fresh business mindset. Expect honest lessons on leadership, family dynamics, team culture, and adapting to changing clients. They also discuss maintaining service standards during industry shifts, building trust across generations, and leading with confidence even when you’re not behind the chair. Practical takeaways include communication, decision-making, and creating a clear vision for sustainable growth. Chapters 2:53: The Next Gen Legacy Begins 4:01: Our Journeys Unfold 7:17: Family Business Realities 12:51: Leadership and Learning 16:56: Overcoming Industry Challenges 22:15: The Importance of Community 25:15: Adapting to Change 29:44: Pricing Strategies and Client Relations 36:23: Navigating Price Increases 42:27: Building Lifelong Client Relationships 44:42: Hope for the Future 46:50: Wrap-Up and Next Episode Preview Resources from todays episode Watch the full interview on How To Cut It YouTube Channel HERE Tash Grossman on Instagram @tashmeg Tilly Capel on Instagram @tillycapel 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 How To Cut It YouTube @howtocutit How To Cut It on Instagram @howtocutit How To Cut It on TikTok @howtocutit

In this episode brought to you by Wella Professionals, Dom chats with Jon Walker, Education Brand Manager, and Katharina Liebner, Senior Manager of Product Development at Wella Professionals, about the intricate research and development behind new hair care products. We explore the collaborative process that involves stylists in product creation, addressing hair damage with Wella's Ultimate Repair line and the growing trend of "skinification." Jon and Katharina share insights on rigorous testing protocols, the complexities of launching new products, and tease upcoming offerings. Listening in today you will gain a deeper appreciation for the meticulous work that empowers stylists and enhances your craft. Chapters 8:16 The Science of Hair Damage 12:46 Skinification in Hair Care 15:06 The Importance of a Complete Regimen 19:17 The Technical Story of Ultimate Repair 23:27 Testing New Products 28:23 The Role of Consumer Feedback 31:13 The Latest Product Launches 33:20 Behind the Scenes at Wella 38:25 Consumer Pain Points in Hair Care 41:22 Trends and Innovations in Hair Care 45:56 The Future of Wella Professionals Resources from todays episode FOR MORE ON ULTIMATE REPAIR CLICK HERE VISIT WELLA STORE HERE CONNECT WITH WELLA PROFESSIONALS UKI ON INSTAGRAM @WELLAPROFESSIONALSUKI WATCH THE PODCAST INTERVIEW ON YOUTUBE HERE @HOWTOCUTIT CONNECT WITH HOW TO CUT IT ON INSTAGRAM @HOWTOCUTIT

Kick off 2026 with Dom as he reflects on How To Cut It’s journey—from a 2017 solo start to Hairbrained Podcast of the Year 2024—and invites hairdressers, barbers, educators, and salon owners to reset, refocus, and map bold goals for the year ahead. Discover what’s next for the community: a smarter way to pause and reset, deeper education, more live events, and Spotd—an upcoming platform designed to connect you with right-fit opportunities. You’ll also hear dreams and lessons from HTCI Platform members Jacqueline Hirst, Chris Grimley, Sarah Dawes, Emma Seldon, Francesca Rivetti, and Vicky Lane. Lastly, Dom asks you to get involved by sharing your 2026 goals by tagging Dom on Instagram @domlehane using the hashtag #mygoals2026, and join us on a fresh path of growth in a fast-changing industry. You’ll learn: * A simple reset approach to clarify your 2026 vision and priorities * How the show’s evolution unlocks new learning and community support for you * What Spotd is and how it can match you to culture-fit roles and teams * Where we’re heading with deeper education and live events—and how to get involved * Real-world insights and 2026 goals from our community to inspire your next steps Chapters 1:29: Reflecting on Dreams 7:57: Launching Spotd App 8:22: Evolving the Podcast 9:58: Community Voices Resources Spotd: Join the wait list getspotdapp.com Join HTCIN Platform Community HERE Follow Spotd on Instagram @getspotdapp

British hairdressing treasure Andrew Barton returns for Part 2 as he celebrates 40 years behind the chair and beyond. In this episode with Andrew, we dig into his education philosophy, how he keeps standards high, and the mindset that’s powered him from prime-time TV to today’s social-first world. Andrew lifts the lid on Split Ends with Andrew and Olga—his storytelling podcast born from his anti-bullying advocacy—and why purpose, service and great communication are the future of salon success. He shares candid reflections on brand, consultancy, mentoring the next generation, and the projects giving him fresh energy. Plus: a must-hear big news announcement. If you’re a salon owner, educator or creative pro, this episode is packed with practical insight, inspiration and heart. Listen now. Chapters 4:41: The Launch of Split Ends Podcast 6:11: Transitioning to Social Media 10:50: The Impact of Social Media 12:41: Evolving Industry Standards 14:25: The Role of Salons in Communities 17:53: Challenges Facing Salon Owners 20:30: The Future of Training in Hairdressing 24:28: The Importance of Education 28:51: Engaging the Next Generation 31:59: Charity Work and Impact 36:01: Exciting News Ahead     Resources WATCH SPLIT ENDS WITH ANDREW AND OLGA HERE LEARN MORE ON KIDSCAPE HERE MORE ON THE LITTLE PRINCESS TRUST HERE FIND OUT MORE ON ABLE - ANDREW BARTON HERE FIND ANDREW BARTON ONLINE AT ANDREWBARTONLONDON.CO.UK CONNECT WITH ANDREW ON INSTAGRAM @ANDREW_BARTON_HAIR EP003: Andrew Barton – An Interview with a Celebrity Hairstylist EP071: Andrew Barton – Creating Inspirational, Motivational and Empowering Training (ABLE) EP379: Celebrating 40 Years – Andrew Barton, An Industry Treasure