Ky Wilson: Grit, Growth and the Craft of Hairdressing

Can reinvention be the secret to longevity in a creative industry?In this episode we sit down with the legendary Jo Mills - founder of The Lounge Soho, Jo & Co, and Woolf Kings X to unpack how a career built on instinct, innovation, and adaptability has kept him at the forefront of British hairdressing for over three decades.From his early days cutting hair in Margate to redefining what a modern salon can look like, Jo shares the mindset behind constantly evolving his craft and business. He opens up about the burnout that nearly made him walk away from it all, and how that moment led to a bold new hybrid salon concept combining the freedom of self-employment with the stability of traditional models.We explore how Jo’s model is transforming what it means to run a creative business today - one that is built on flexibility, mentorship, and community over convention.What You’ll Learn- The Hybrid Model: How Jo’s new salon structure blends employment and independence, creating flexibility without chaos.- Creative Longevity: Why reinvention is essential for staying inspired, relevant, and resilient in a changing industry.- Leading with Purpose: How empathy, mentoring, and adaptability have shaped Jo’s leadership style and why it works.Jo proves that success in hairdressing isn’t just about cutting hair - it’s about cutting through old systems and shaping new ones. His story is a masterclass in creative reinvention, business bravery, and building something that lasts.Hair Life is produced by Urban Podcasts.

What if building a career in hairdressing was less about salons and more about sheer grit?In this episode of Hair Life, we are joined by the incredible Ky Wilson, a hairdresser and educator whose journey spans from small-town beginnings in the Lake District to the global stage. From sleeping rough in airports to hustling through competitions, to opening unconventional salon spaces in warehouses and even cutting hair on park benches, Ky's story is one of determination, creativity, and resilience.We dive into how competitions shaped his early career, what it was like to work under industry icons, and how he pioneered flexible freelance salon spaces before they became the norm. Ky also opens up about the health challenges and sobriety journey that have reshaped his life and perspective, showing how hairdressing has always been both his craft and his form of meditation.What You’ll Learn- Breaking In: How competitions, mentoring, and hustle create opportunities in the hair industry.- Innovation & Resilience: Why thinking differently about spaces and services can redefine success.- Sobriety & Growth: How stepping away from alcohol reshaped Ky's health, mindset, and creative energy.Ky's story is proof that passion, persistence, and a willingness to carve your own path can turn obstacles into opportunities-and inspire others to do the same.Hair Life is produced by Urban Podcasts.

What if money could be your greatest teacher in life and business?In this Rewind episode of Hair Life, we get real about our journeys with money-from scraping by as single parents to building comfortable lifestyles. We chat about the highs and lows, how financial struggles sparked our drive, and why true joy comes from time with loved ones, not just the bank balance.What You'll Learn- Embracing Struggles: Turn financial hardships into motivation to push harder and grow personally.- Smart Spending: Align your money with values by saving, investing wisely, and avoiding impulsive buys.- Setting Targets: Use goals like funding dream holidays to fuel your business hustle and create lasting memories.We share our tips like appreciating simple joys (dog walks or family time), educating yourself before big decisions, and remembering that freedom and time matter more than material things. This episode is your reminder that money's true value lies in the freedom and experiences it unlocks, not the stuff it buys.Hair Life is produced by Urban Podcasts.

What if entering awards could transform your salon's reputation?In this Rewind episode of Hair Life, we dive into the power of awards for salon owners. Callie shares her journey of winning nine awards, from Surrey Stylist of the Year to Marketing Trailblazer, and how these accolades boosted her business's credibility, team morale, and local profile. We discuss choosing awards that align with your brand, the benefits of regional recognition, and how even not winning can inspire growth.What You'll Learn- Strategic Award Selection: Pick awards that match your business model to maximise impact.- Boosting Credibility: Use awards to enhance your salon's trust and local reputation.- Inspiring Growth: Learn from finalists or winners to elevate your business practices.We share tried and tested tips like celebrating wins with clients to make them part of the journey, taking a helicopter view to assess your business strengths, and networking with other hairdressers at award events.This is your call to step out of your comfort zone and let awards fuel your salon's success.Hair Life is produced by Urban Podcasts.

What if procrastination could spark a smarter way to work? In this Rewind episode of Hair Life, we dive headfirst into the messy world of procrastination, sharing our own tales of half-finished projects and broken salon heaters. We explore why we delay tasks, the mental toll it takes, and practical ways to break free from procrastination.What You’ll Learn- Spotting Triggers: Recognise tasks like admin that derail you and tackle them strategically.- Smart Outsourcing: Hire a PA or delegate tasks outside your skillset to keep momentum.- Accountability Boost: Team up with a coach or mate to turn intentions into action.We share tips like setting dedicated task days (and sticking to them!), embracing your strengths, and leaning on a support network to stay focused. Whether it’s a brain dump to clear your mind or finding someone like our mate Graham to fix what’s broken, we’ve got you covered.Hair Life is produced by Urban Podcasts.

Are you constantly scrolling or wondering why your kids can’t put their phones down at dinner? In this Rewind episode of Hair Life, we dive into social media’s grip on our lives - its effects on focus, self-esteem, and even our salons. Callie and I share honest stories about its influence on our work and families.We unpack the psychological toll, like content overload and pressure to match filtered ideals, and provide actionable tips for a refreshing detox. You’ll discover how to balance social media to boost creativity and connections without sacrificing peace, with practical advice on setting boundaries, recognising addiction, and using it smartly in hairdressing.Hair Life is produced by Urban Podcasts.

Would you let an untrained doctor operate on you? So why risk your hair with an unqualified stylist? In this episode of Hair Life, we sit down with Rae Palmer, a hairdressing legend with 40 years of experience and the founder of WELOVE. She shares her journey from sweeping floors in a barber shop to owning buzzing salons, driven by her passion for teaching and frustration with the UK’s wild-west hair industry - where anyone can grab scissors or chemicals without training.Rae shares shocking salon mishaps and her fierce fight with the Hair and Barber Council to push for proper standards. This episode is a wake-up call for stylists and clients to demand better, stay safe, and help turn hairdressing into the respected craft it deserves to be.Hair Life is produced by Urban Podcasts. 

Welcome to the first Hair Life Rewind, where we revisit highlights from past episodes. Today, we’re diving back into our chat with PR expert Sally Learmouth.In this episode you’ll learn how leveraging your salon’s USP can elevate your brand. Sally shares how she transformed freelancer Jack Howard into the “King of Balayage” with savvy PR strategies. This throwback uncovers how bold, decisive action can spark growth for your salon.Hair Life is produced by Urban Podcasts.

Inspired by my 95-year-old client Leslie, who faces the physical and financial challenges of aging, Callie and I dive into whether we can afford our own futures. We question if retiring at 65 is outdated, especially for hairdressers and small business owners like us with limited pension options.With raw honesty, we unpack the emotional toll of boredom and the search for purpose in later life.In this episode, you’ll learn:Why living to 100 is more likely than ever.How small pension pots could mean working into your 80s.Why inflation and mortgages might force you to rethink downsizing or side hustles to keep your lifestyle.This episode is a wake-up call for anyone who wants to age with dignity, not desperation.Hair Life is produced by Urban Podcasts.

Are hair industry awards the golden ticket for your salon or just a shiny distraction? In this episode of Hair Life, myself and Callie cut through the noise and get real about the value of chasing awards.In this episode, you’ll learn: How regional wins can amplify your local rep and turn free press into marketing wins.Why awards season can light a fire under your team, boost morale, and spark industry connections.The hidden costs—entry fees, gala tickets, and time—that can drain your focus if you’re not strategic.Packed with honest insights and practical tips, this episode is your guide to deciding whether to chase that trophy or keep your eyes on the salon floor.