How To Cut It in the Hairdressing Industry
The ultimate resource and training guide for the hair industry, this is your one-stop shop for all things related to a successful career in hairdressing and barbering. Show host, Dom Lehane, interviews special guests from across the hair, fashion, beauty and creative occupations, educating you with their insights, inspirations and information to take your hairdressing and barbering careers to the next level. Whether you're considering a career in the hair industry, a trainee hairdresser, highly skilled hairstylist, ambitious barber or a salon owner there is something definitely here for you in this Podcast.
Episodes
EP407: Sarah Yorke — Is Your Digital Footprint Sabotaging Your Career?
In this episode, brought to you in partnership with Wella Professionals UKI, we are joined by Sarah Yorke—an industry professional turned tech founder. From her early beginnings working behind the salon chair to launching the Stylebook Directory and Stylebook Education, Sarah shares how her passion for the industry has evolved into two platforms: one that helps hair and beauty professionals grow t
EP406: Adina Pignatare — Balancing the Harmony of Motherhood and a Thriving Hair Career
In this final episode of the Residency takeover with Nancy Stripe, Nancy is joined by Adina Pignatare, an acclaimed American based hair educator, salon owner, viral content creator, and modern mother navigating the hair industry. Adina shares her unique journey and provides actionable advice on how to balance life as a working parent while building a brand that resonates with both your clients and
EP405: Mastering the Art of Grey Blending—Nardia Young’s Secrets to Seamless Transitions
We are thrilled to bring you part three of our Residency Takeover with our guest host, the award-winning colourist and educator, Nancy Stripe. In this episode, Nancy sits down with Nardia Young, a prominent British hair colour specialist and global educator based in Birmingham with over 28 years of experience. As a world-renowned Grey Blending Expert, Nardia has spent her career transforming high-
EP404: Catherine Handcock OBE — Shaping The Industry
For today’s takeover episode, our month-long residency guest host Nancy Stripe sits down with the visionary Catherine Handcock OBE, a pioneering British publisher and leading advocate for the UK hair and beauty sector. As the founder of Creative HEAD and a director of the British Beauty Council, Catherine has spent decades championing professional excellence, building prestigious awards platforms,
EP403: Jack Howard — Colour, Loss, & Change
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 i
EP402: Embrace the Grey–Nancy Stripe’s Colour‑Therapy Revolution
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 helpi
EP401: The Chair Changed Everything — Rio Agor Watts (Revlon Pro Education)
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 rec
EP400: The Growth and Development Through Apprenticeships with KH Hair Group
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
EP399: A New Chapter in Hair — Meet K18 FutureIQ with Suveen Sahib and Tom Smith
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 revoluti
EP398: Where Can Hair Take You? | Introducing WHAIR To?
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-
EP397: Michael Douglas — Serving Consumers, or Selling Out? You Decide.
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 build
EP396: Are you charging your worth—if not, why not?
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
EP395: The Secret Garden’s Gender‑Neutral Salon Playbook
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
EP394: Hair Colour Ingredient Truths with Wella’s Ursus Schweitzer
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 c
EP393: Stop Guessing Hair Colour—You’re Gambling with People’s Hair, with Samantha Blues
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 insid
EP392: Hairstylists Belong On Stage!
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
EP391: Hairdressers & Barbers: Sick of the Algorithm?
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,
EP390: The Real Business of Hair Extensions with Remi Cachet founder, Victoria Lynch
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
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
EP388: James Earnshaw & Jordanna Cobella – Hair Innovations Led (What Hairdressers Need to Know)
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.
EP387: Broke, Bruised, and BACK! – Alex Walker’s No-Excuses Return to the Top
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, wh
EP386: (Classic Rerun 2019) The Eugene Souleiman Story
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 Trevo
EP385: Next-Gen Legacy (Part 3) — Strategy, Culture & Growth with Tash Grossman + Tilly Capel
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 practi
EP384: Next-Gen Legacy (Part 2) —Stepping Into Leadership in Family-Run Salons with Tash Grossman + Tilly Capel
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
EP383: Next-Gen Legacy (Part 1) — Our Story with Tash Grossman + Tilly Capel
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 Sat
EP382: The Science Behind Professional Haircare: An Inside Look at Wella’s R&D
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 Repai
EP381: What’s Your Dream?
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 t
EP380: Andrew Barton (Part 2) – 40 Years, One Mission
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-
EP379: Celebrating 40 Years – Andrew Barton, An Industry Treasure
Celebrating 40 years in hairdressing, British icon Andrew Barton joins Dom Lehane to share the mindset, craft and stories that shaped one of the UK’s most loved hairdressers.
From his Yorkshire apprenticeship and the mantra “never accept OK,” to winning British Hairdresser of the Year and defining a signature of healthy, shiny, glamorous hair, Andrew unpacks what lasting success behind the chair
EP378: The Keratin Complex Game-Changer
Think Keratin Complex is only for straightening? Think again. Join Zoe Hyams of Keratin Complex, Tom Kimber of Rebel Beauty Brands, and educator and salon owner Sam Pitham as they reveal how these treatments strengthen *all* hair types.
For hairdressers, this is a business masterclass. Learn to leverage fast services like KC Express to fill your book, use the complete 360° system to guarantee cli
EP377: Stop Saying “We Don’t Do That Hair” — The Shift with Erica Liburd
Erica Liburd joins the show today to explain to us hairstylists and salons on how to say yes to every client, from afro and curl to all textured hair. We unpack consultation, timing, pricing, and training that build real confidence on the floor. Erica shares the story of Texture Unravelled and why inclusive education is essential for growth, retention, and standards.Learn how to move from fear
Classic Rerun (2018): Angelo Seminara – Inside the Mind of a Creative Genius
In this timeless How To Cut It Classic Rerun conversation recorded and published in March 2018, Angelo Seminara—one of the world’s most celebrated hairdressers—traces his path from a childhood in Calabria, Italy, to global acclaim. Angelo reflects on early lessons learned in a local barbershop, the discipline they instilled, and the mentors who sharpened his eye and ambition.
Angelo unpacks his
EP376: James Busby – Becoming a Social Media Sensation
UK solo hairdresser, creator and social media sensation James Busby reveals how he turned real consultations into bingeable social stories. We unpack his reinvention after two decades behind the chair, the courage to film real clients, and the posting cadence that built trust. James shares plain‑English monetisation—TikTok payouts, brand deals via his agency, pricing by deliverables—without sacrif
EP375: A New Era for Sebastian Professional, with Jon Walker and Richard Windle
In today’s episode, Dom welcomes Wella Education Brand Manager Jon Walker and Sebastian Professional educator and expert Richard Windle to the How To Cut It podcast, in partnership with Wella Professionals UK & Ireland, to explore the brand’s chic glow up from grunge to glam.
This episode dives into Sebastian’s fearless hair artist legacy, community building, and how fashion culture meets real-li
EP374: Charlotte Mensah – Women In Business (Takeover #5)
In this final Women in Business Takeover episode, host Samantha Cusick meets Charlotte Mensah to explore creativity, leadership, and purpose. From Ghana furniture-making to salon craft, Charlotte candidly unpacks navigating race, hair politics, and today’s “everyone’s a founder” culture, plus how listening, community, and integrity can spark real industry change. She shares the highs and lessons o
EP373: Lisa Farrall – Women In Business (Takeover #4)
In the next episode of the Women in Business Takeover series, hosted by Samantha Cusick, we hear from the phenomenal Lisa Farrall—award-winning session stylist, educator, and advocate for diversity in the hair industry. With boldness, humor, and insight, Lisa shares her journey of breaking barriers, championing textured hair, and creating space for inclusivity in hairstyling.
Lisa also opens up a
EP372: Danielle Garner – Women In Business (Takeover Series #3)
In the third episode of the Women in Business Takeover, hosted by Samantha Cusick, we meet the brilliant Danielle Garner. Danielle shares her journey of building Wildflower and Wholehearted Dublin, each founded on principles of wellness, creativity, and work-life balance. She reveals how intuition and thoughtful innovation have shaped her success in the industry, as well as the challenges she’s ov
EP371: Jordanna Cobella – Women In Business (Takeover Series #2)
In Episode 2 of the *How To Cut It* Women in Business Takeover, Samantha Cusick, owner of Samantha Cusick London, founder of Sta Studios, hosts an inspiring conversation with twice-nominated British Hairdresser of the Year (2024 & 2025) and former London Hairdresser of the Year, Jordanna Cobella.
Jordanna is a popular and much loved guest on the How To Cut It podcast and an ambassador for Wella.
EP370: Ashleigh Hodges – Women In Business (Takeover #1)
Welcome to the first special episode of our August Takeover, "Women in Business." Hosted by Samantha Cusick, owner of both Samantha Cusick salon in Notting Hill and Sta Studios.
This series shines a spotlight on the trailblazing women redefining what it means to lead in our hair industry. Kicking things off features a compelling conversation between Samantha and her special guest Ashleigh Hodges,
EP369: Michael Douglas – Finding My True Self!
Celebrity hairdresser Michael Douglas joins the How To Cut It podcast in this blockbuster episode! From his early days in hairdressing to becoming a well-known TV personality (BBC1’s One Show), Instagram influencer (@mdlondon), and the partner of Davina McCall (co-host of the Making The Cut podcast), Michael’s journey has been anything but ordinary.
We explore his career-defining moments, includi
EP368: The Comeback Curl with Wella Professionals
In this episode brought to you by Wella Professionals UK & Ireland, we explore the resurgence of perming and texture services within the hairdressing industry, joined by experts Charlie Taylor, Sarah Mason, and Suki Supermama.
We discuss the evolution of modern perms using the relaunched Wella Perm, moving beyond their outdated 80s reputation to become a versatile, fashion-forward option that hig
EP367: Kieran Tudor – How a Personal Experience Sparked a Purposeful Mission
In this episode of How To Cut It In A Hairdressing Industry Podcast, I speak with Kieran Tudor, co-founder of Centred, a brand dedicated to enhancing hair health through internal wellness. We discuss Kieran's inspiring journey from being named British Hairdresser Newcomer of the Year to navigating personal challenges that led to the creation of Centred.
He shares the emotional impact of stress-r
EP366: Become a Leading Hair Educator with Chris Moody
Ready to elevate your teaching skills and become a leader in hair education? In this episode, we sit down with renowned educators coach Chris Moody to explore his 5-Week Educators Training Programme, crafted specifically for hairdressers and barbers aiming to excel as standout educators.
Chris shares practical insights on simplifying content, engaging learners, building confidence, and creating t
EP365: Courage to Change – An Audience with Sophia Hilton
Recorded live in front of an audience at Grid Studios, London, this How To Cut It podcast features industry icon Sophia Hilton. Sophia unveils her transformative journey, from founding the groundbreaking Not Another Salon to making the courageous decision to close it, despite its success. Sophia reflects on leadership, personal growth, and redefining success. Hear exclusive insights on her newest
EP364: What the VTCT Skills Survey Reveals About the Future of Hairdressing
In this episode, I chat with Nicola Steinbach and Annette Tattersall about the evolving landscape of hairdressing education and essential skills for modern professionals. We discuss insights from a VTCT Skills survey, emphasising hands-on training, soft skills, and the trend of lifelong learning among newly qualified stylists.
We also explore the VTCT Skills membership platform, which is designed
EP363: Richard Ashforth – My Journey Back to Sassoon as International Creative Director
In this episode of How To Cut It: In The Hairdressing Industry Podcast, we learn about Richard Ashforth's prestigious new appointment to International Creative Director at Sassoon—and why he has decided to returnto the iconic brand he started with.
With over 30 years of industry experience, Richard dives into blending tradition with innovation, mentoring the next generation of stylists, and the p
EP362: The Rise of the Hair Industry influencer with Holly Fairley
In this week’s podcast, we're joined by transformative hair colour expert and a leader in precision consultations, Holly Fairley. Holly is to share her journey from early struggles to becoming a top hairdressing influencer.
Learn how she uses social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram to transform careers in the barbering and hairdressing industry. Holly reveals her proven strategies for s
EP361: What It Takes to Win Wella Professionals TrendVision Award
In this episode of "How To Cut It In A Hairdressing Industry Podcast," brought to you by Wella Professionals UKI we explore the inspiring world of Wella Trend Vision Awards UK and Ireland , with last year’s winners, Alex White, Maggie Grant, and Corinne McNaughton.
We dive into their personal experiences leading up to the competition, discussing the critical importance of creativity, thorough pr
EP360: Beyond the Grid – Sarah Louise Keane’s Journey from Struggles to Success
Join us for Part 2 of our conversation with Sarah Louise Keane, better known on social media as @slkbleachexpert! Get ready for a journey of resilience and authenticity with Sarah's inspiring story—it's all about finding strength through personal battles and professional triumphs. Discover how hairdressing became her lifeline, the turning point of choosing sobriety, and why keeping it real on s
EP359: How Host Manchester is Redefining Independent Hairdressing, with Sarah Louise Keane
In this two-part series, I chat with Sarah Louise Keane (SLK), a scalp bleach expert and influencer in the hairdressing world. Co-founder of Host Manchester, Sarah has created a pioneering co-working space designed for freelance hairstylists.
In this episode, we revisit her journey, dive into the challenges of creating a supportive salon space, and explore how Host Manchester redefines independen
EP358: Inside the House of Sassoon with Mark Hayes
Dive into the heart of Sassoon with Mark Hayes, Senior International Creative Director, as we bring you a podcast recording from the House of Sassoon, Soho, London. Mark unveils its I-Conic Spring/Summer 2025 Collection, and the future of hairdressing education with Sassoon Connect. Plus discover how Vidal Sassoon’s legacy continues to shape modern hair trends, refine techniques, and inspire creat
EP357: Katy Grimshaw and the Rise of Spectrum One
In this episode of "How To Cut It in the Hairdressing Industry Podcast," Katy Grimshaw, the founder of Spectrum One Salon and Academy, and Spectrum One Hair Extensions, shares her inspiring journey from a passionate freelancer to a successful salon owner, entrepreneur and innovator.
Katy discusses her transition, early challenges, and the importance of continual education and high standards in th
EP356: What Next? It’s Time For Change!
In today’s solo episode, I share my personal reflections on the evolution and future of the How To Cut It: In The Hairdressing Industry Podcast. This marks a significant milestone as we celebrate eight years of engaging content and community building.
I recount how a conversation with my family at the age of 13 changed my career path from wanting to be a train driver (yes a train driver I see you
EP355: Michael Gray’s Journey from Salon Chair to Editorial Hair Stylist
Today’s guest Michael Gray has transitioned from working behind the salon chair to building a successful career as an editorial and special occasion hair stylist. His talent and passion have led him from styling beautiful brides to perfecting the looks of A-list celebrities on the red carpet and creating looks for hair brand campaigns.
Michael's impressive achievements include being a regional fi
EP354: From Good to Truly Remarkable – Grow Your Hairdressing Career with Lorraine Matic
This weeks episode we sit down with the highly respected Lorraine Matic, Insight Professional Education Manager with over 38 years of global experience in the hairdressing industry. Lorraine has a proven track record of designing transformative educational programs, events, and shows for top-tier corporate companies, distributors, and salon groups.
In this episode, you’ll discover what it takes
EP353: How to Standout as an Independent Hair Educator with Keith Owen
In this week’s episode, we are to be joined with Keith Owen, a renowned independent hair educator, as he shares his journey from the roots of hairdressing to becoming a respected figure in hair cutting education.
Keith is to share some gold strategies for distinguishing yourself as an independent hair educator in a market saturated with talent. He emphasises the significance of understanding the
EP352: Norman Boulton – Becoming a Freelance Hairdresser and Educator
Becoming a freelance hairdresser and educator is this week’s podcast conversation with Norman Boulton—currently one of the UK’s most exciting rising stars in the hair industry. Norman, formerly a senior stylist and educator at the world famous Not Another Salon in London, recently ventured into freelance work at Glitterdoll Balayage—nestled in the vibrant heart of Highgate.
We explore Norman’s de
EP351: Why VTCT Skills is Setting the Benchmark in Hairdressing Education
This week's episode, we've got a truly inspiring episode lined up for you in collaboration with VTCT Skills! We're diving into the world of hairdressing education with Nicola Steinbach,Business Development Manager at VTCT Skills, and Marie Nieuwoudt, Group Education Manager at Cloud Nine Hair. Trust me, you don't want to miss this one!
In this episode, we’re addressing some of the biggest misconc
EP350: Must-Know Hair Colour Trends to Wow Your Clients, with Melanie Smith
In this week's episode, we're talking about the must-know hair colour trends to wow your clients with in 2025. In particular, we'll be focusing on the Wella Colour Touch Melt trend—a technique that will make your clients' hair shimmer with a seamless and lustrous look.
Brought to you by our friends at Wella Professionals UK and Ireland, I'm thrilled to be joined today by Melanie Smith, a leading
EP349: David Campbell – How To grow Your Salon Business in 2025
Welcome to How To Cut It in the Hairdressing Industry Podcast 2025 Kickoff! If you're wanting to learn how to grow your salon business and set your hairdressing ambitions sky-high for the year ahead? Perfect, because you're about to hit play on one of our most inspirational episodes yet!
In this jam-packed episode brought to you in partnership with our friends at Wella Professionals UK & Ireland.
EP348: Building a Premium Salon Group Brand Rooted in Heritage with Lucan Salem
In this podcast episode in partnership with Wella Professionals, I sit down at Grid Studios London for a conversation with Lucan Salem—Director of HARI's salon group. Lucan will share the inspiring journey of HARI's, a salon business started in Sydney Street, Chelsea, London by his father and visionary Hari Salem in 1976.
Lucan and his sister have expanded HARI's from three to five thriving salon
EP347: Grid Studios London – Capturing Beautiful Hair Content in 2025!
In this episode of How To Cut It, we dive deep into Grid Studios, the innovative creative space designed specifically for professionals in the hair and beauty industry. Nestled in the vibrant Old Street, London, Grid Studios fills a crucial gap in the market by offering tailor-made amenities for hairstylists, barbers, and content creators.
Join me as I sit down with Grid Studios' co-founder Danny
EP346: Guy Kleinhaus – Introducing with Dom Lehane
Welcome to the first episode of our new series, Introducing with Dom Lehane, where I spotlight the industry's hottest new names, rising stars, and undiscovered hair artists. This week, we're excited to introduce Guy Kleinhaus, a big name in the making.
In this episode I have the pleasure of exploring Guy's journey from Cape Town to London's vibrant hair scene. As the artistic director at Cobella
EP345: Ashley Gamble – Achieving Salon Success as a Married Team
In today's episode, I'm joined by Ashley Gamble. We'll be discussing how he went from being a stylist to achieving salon success with his wife Stephanie—and what it took for them both to get there!
For the past 12 years, Ashley and Stephanie have been the owners of Ashley & Gamble, an award-winning salon in Shifnal, Shropshire UK. They have worked together for over 20 years, and their name is wel
EP344: Trevor Sorbie MBE 1949-2024
Welcome to a special episode of the How To Cut It podcast. Today we are marking the sad passing of an extraordinary figure in the world of hairdressing, Trevor Sorbie MBE.
Trevor Sorbie MBE, who was born in Paisley, Scotland in 1949 and rose to become one of the most influential hairdressers of all time. With unparalleled creativity and kindness, Trevor left an indelible mark on our industry. Fro
EP343: Don’t Let Your Condition Hold You Back with Craig Parkinson
In today's episode, I'm to bring you the inspiring journey of Craig Parkinson, a hairdresser who has carved out a successful career despite the ongoing challenge of a stammer.
I first met Craig at an event I hosted in 2016. He was taking to the stage for the first time ever, presenting a look he had created. That's nothing special, you might say. But what made it memorable for me was that Craig h
EP342: Charlie Taylor – Caring About the Hair and Scalp Health of Those We Serve
Today in collaboration with Wella Professionals, I'm honoured to welcome to the podcast Charlie Taylor, three-time Scottish Hairdresser of the Year and British Hairdressing Hall of Fame icon. From her formative years with Trevor Sorbie to co-running renowned salons in Perth and Dundee with her husband Alastair, Charlie has consistently set the bar for hairdressing excellence, making her mark both
EP341: Launching the See Me Aprons Brand While Working Behind the Chair with Vivienne Blake
In this episode, I have the privilege of chatting with Vivienne Blake—a name maybe not familiar to you but someone who came to my attention as a member of our How To Cut It Platform Community. Vivienne has not only carved a unique path in our industry as the owner of her boutique salon and an independent educator, but also launched her innovative product—See Me Aprons—all while balancing these rol
EP340: Sean Hanna – Why Taking Calculated Risks & Planning for Your Exit Strategy Are Essential
In this week's episode, I'm sitting down with Sean Hanna—the visionary behind the leading salon group, Sean Hanna Salon Group. Sean is here to share with us his incredible story, from opening his first salon to building a successful salon empire. We delve into his journey, exploring the challenges he overcame and the pivotal moments that fuelled the growth of his business.
We are to get a treasur
EP339: Little Princess Trust—Giving Hair and Hope to Children with Cancer.
Im thrilled to welcome back Wendy Tarplee-Morris, the co-founder, and Phil Brace, the CEO, of the Little Princess Trust, a charity that holds a special place in all our hearts. Wendy and Phil are two amazing people who have drive, compassion, and leadership.
Since its inception by Wendy 20 years ago, the Little Princess Trust has provided over thousands of free, real-hair wigs to children and you
EP338: Passionate Profit with Alan Austin-Smith
In this motivational episode of the How To Cut It podcast, we welcome back Alan Austin-Smith, the influential figure behind The Fantastic Hairdresser . Alan's teachings and coaching have transformed countless salon businesses and hairdressing careers worldwide. Known for his dynamic approach to merging passion with profitability, Alan brings a treasure trove of insights and actionable strategies t
EP337: Sonia Magnier – Enhancing Wellbeing for Salon Professionals
In this week's episode, I'm inviting the expertise of Sonia Magnier — a transformative holistic wellbeing coach for salon professionals. This conversation is crucial for anyone in the hair industry seeking to reprioritise their own wellbeing without sacrificing their passion for their work.
Sonia Magnier, through her journey from salon ownership to coaching, divulges the critical need for energy
EP336: Your Guide to Hair Loss Prevention and Maintaining a Healthy Scalp with Leading Trichologist Mark Blake
August is National Hair Loss Awareness Month, so for this episode we dive deep with Mark Blake — a globally recognised Harley Street trichologist advising celebrities, media & everyday people in the intricate world of hair loss and scalp care.
In collaboration with Wella Professionals UKI and Nioxin, Mark will take us on an engaging conversation about differential diagnosis—how to pinpoint the ro
EP335: Classic Rerun – Lee Stafford, from Living Room Haircuts to Industry Legend!
Today, we're jumping in the time machine to revisit an epic episode from April 2017 with the legendary Lee Stafford.
In this throwback, we uncover Lee's transformation from humble beginnings in his mother's living room to becoming an icon in hairdressing. "I've always believed that to be the best, you’ve got to learn from the best," Lee shares, revealing his passion for mentorship and the art of
EP334: The Niche World of Competition Hairdressing with Dody Constantinou
Are you a hairdresser or barber with a passion for pushing the boundaries of your craft? Have you ever wondered what it takes to not just participate but shine in the competitive world of competition hairdressing? Yes then this is a podcast episode you don’t want to miss.
Join me as I sit down with Dody Constantinou, a formidable force in the competition hairdressing circuit. Dody’s journey isn’t
EP333: Bruno Marc Giamattei’s Hairdressing Journey of Inspiration, Mentorship and Leadership
Join us for a long-awaited podcast with a true leading figurehead in British hairdressing, the brilliant Bruno Marc Giamattei.
Renowned for his extensive industry accolades, mentoring and leadership role in the family-founded Marc Antoni Group, Bruno is to share invaluable insights rooted in over three decades of industry experience. With a straightforward approach, Bruno says of himself, "I'm
EP332: Janene Hawkins Bush’s Innovative Approach to Salon Ownership and Education
Today we're to be joined by Janene Hawkins Bush. who unravels the blueprint for cultivating thriving salon businesses through team ownership, and seizing every opportunity—without fear.
Leading four award-winning salons along the Suffolk coast, Janene Hawkins Bush is committed to moulding the next generation of stylists and salon leaders. She mentors her team members, helping many to develop the
EP331: Sharpen Your Skills – Francesca Rivetti’s Blueprint for Hairdressing Mastery
Today we're joined by Francesca Rivetti, an award-winning hairstylist who hails from the UK but has made her mark in America.
Francesca's journey is inspiring. From her early days immersed in hair design to pioneering roles with Graham Webb International and winning major awards like the NAHA Editorial award, Francesca has shaped a career marked by creativity, innovation, and educational advancem
EP330: We ‘Got On It’ at HAIRCON, the New Day and Night Hair Festival – Solo Episode
My absence from the podcasting waves over the last couple of weeks has been due to my bustling experience at the brand new HAIRCON event in Manchester's O2 Victoria Warehouse. In today's solo episode, I invite you to join me as I share an off-the-cuff episode, reflecting on the raw energy and my personal insights on taking the HTCI Platform stage to this groundbreaking day and night hair festival.
EP329: From Local Hero to Industry Icon: The Power of Local Salon Awards with Kate Jeffery
Are you a hairstylist looking to elevate your career and get your salon on the map? Then today's episode of the How To Cut It podcast is exactly what you need to tune into. Put on your headphones, turn up the volume, and stay locked in as we dive deep into the world of industry awards with a special focus on local recognition and why it matters more than you might think.
We're joined by none othe
