How To Cut It in the Hairdressing Industry

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

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

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 really takes. Recorded at Andrew's Brighton home, expect candid insights on confidence, education, elevating the narrative of hairdressing, and why the salon remains his true north. If you’re a hair pro or just love great hair, this is essential listening. Get ready for Part Two next week. Search How To Cut It to subscribe. Listen now. Chapters 1:52: Celebrating Andrew Barton's 40 Years 3:03: Andrew's Early Days in Hairdressing 11:10: The Importance of Awards 12:58: Career Before British Hairdresser of the Year 15:43: Defining Andrew's Signature Style 18:25: Andrew's Childhood and Adoption 22:48: The Salon as a Safe Space 30:47: The Power of Now 32:57: Exercise and Mental Health 37:51: Balancing a Busy Life 40:16: Understanding Consultancy Work 45:22: The Impact of 10 Years Younger Resources from todays episode Andrew Barton on Instagram @andrew_barton_hair www.andrew-barton.com 25% off all Keratin Complex products use code HTCI25 Rebelbeautybrands.com (offer ends 5/12/2026

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 to fluency, close skill gaps across teams, and future‑proof your chair with services that welcome everyone. If you’re ready to raise your texture game, fill your books, and deliver consistent results, this episode is your roadmap. Listen and level up.Chapters 3:47 The Importance of Textured Hair Education 8:09 Erica's Journey in Hairdressing 11:18 Breaking Down Barriers in the Industry 19:44 The Role of City and Guilds 22:25 Opening a Salon 23:41 The Clientele Experience 30:02 Continuous Learning in Hairdressing 33:48 Personal Experiences with Hair Salons 35:49 Social Media Impact on Education 38:45 The Conversation Around Texture Education 45:10 Practical Learning at Texture Unraveled 58:41 Legacy and Mentorship in Hairdressing 1:01:55 Collaborative Opportunities in the Industry 1:03:51 Quick Fire Questions 1:09:17 Closing Thoughts and Future Plans Resources from todays episode FOR MORE ON TEXTURE UNRAVELLED CLICK HERE CONNECT WITH ERICA ON INSTAGRAM @ERICALIBURDOFFICIAL FOLLOW TEXTURE UNRAVELLED ON INSTAGRAM @TEXTUREUNRAVELLED SHAIR! UNDRGRND EVENT: BOOK TICKETS HERE 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 to fluency, close skill gaps across teams, and future‑proof your chair with services that welcome everyone. If you’re ready to raise your texture game, fill your books, and deliver consistent results, this episode is your roadmap. Listen and level up. Chapters 3:47 The Importance of Textured Hair Education 8:09 Erica's Journey in Hairdressing 11:18 Breaking Down Barriers in the Industry 19:44 The Role of City and Guilds 22:25 Opening a Salon 23:41 The Clientele Experience 30:02 Continuous Learning in Hairdressing 33:48 Personal Experiences with Hair Salons 35:49 Social Media Impact on Education 38:45 The Conversation Around Texture Education 45:10 Practical Learning at Texture Unraveled 58:41 Legacy and Mentorship in Hairdressing 1:01:55 Collaborative Opportunities in the Industry 1:03:51 Quick Fire Questions 1:09:17 Closing Thoughts and Future Plans Resources from todays episode FOR MORE ON TEXTURE UNRAVELLED CLICK HERE CONNECT WITH ERICA ON INSTAGRAM @ERICALIBURDOFFICIAL FOLLOW TEXTURE UNRAVELLED ON INSTAGRAM @TEXTUREUNRAVELLED SHAIR! UNDRGRND EVENT: BOOK TICKETS HERE

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 sacrificing creative control. We also preview his next moves: street‑style vox pops, car‑meets‑hair collabs, and live workshops where he teaches viral capture frameworks. Ideal for stylists and creators wanting practical steps to grow views, revenue, and reputation. Plus, simple camera, audio, and consent tips to film confidently, and a reminder to serve the audience first while protecting brand integrity and long‑term client relationships online. Chapters 04:29 James Busby's Viral Success on Social Media 07:36 Journey into Hairdressing 14:55 Owning and Running a Salon 17:45 Transition to Self-Employment and Social Media 28:43 Navigating Brand Deals 29:53 The Role of Authenticity in Promotions 31:10 Exploring New Content Formats 31:47 Challenges of Street Interviews 32:18 Balancing Hairdressing and Social Media 38:07 Future Aspirations and Passions 46:13 Content Creation Tips and Tools 48:36 Quickfire Questions and Final Thoughts 51:51 Conclusion and Takeaways Resources from todays episode SHAIR! UNDRGRND LIVE EVENT LEARN MORE CHECK OUT JAMES BUSBY’S LINKTR.EE HERE CONNECT WITH JAMES ON TIKTOK @JAMESBUSBYHAIR FOLLOW JAMES ON INSTAGRAM @JAMES.BUSBY_ FOLLOW JAMES ON YOUTUBE @JAMESBUSBYHAIR2828 WATCH PART 1 OF OUR INTERVIEW WITH JAMES ON YOUTUBE HERE

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 of building a brand, the discipline behind true craftsmanship, and how cooking, home life in Ghana, and moments of deep focus quiet a “busy brain.” Expect practical wisdom for all of you salon owners, textured-hair pros, and those seeking longevity, integrity, and community-centered growth, with actionable takeaways. Press play for grounded, real-world guidance you can act on today—and don’t miss the final minutes, where Charlotte shares the mindset that sustained 25+ years in business, her go-to "busy brain" reset, and a challenge for salon owners to try this week. Stick around for resources, next steps, and inspiration. Chapter Timestamps 2:49 Meet Charlotte Mensah 4:37 Creativity and Personal Growth 9:10 Healing Through Hair 12:30 The Journey into Hairdressing 21:32 Building a Community in Salons 25:10 Launching a Product Line 28:00 The Importance of Authenticity 35:51 Navigating Race and Hair Politics 44:38 Quick Fire Questions 50:41 Takeaways Resources Follow Charlotte on Instagram @charlottemensah Visit Charlotte's Website: charlottemensah.com Checkout the Manketti Oil Haircare Range: charlottemensah.com/collections/manketti-oil Get the Good Hair book by Charlotte Mensah HERE Visit Samantha Cusick salon website HERE Sta Studios visit sta-studios.com Silly Little Girls Club podcast on Spotify click HERE Samantha Cusick on Instagram @smantha.cusick Sta Studios on Instagram @sta__studios Follow Dom Lehane on Instagram @domlehane Follow How To Cut It on Instagram @howtocutit

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 overcome along the way. Samantha and Danielle discuss managing business growth, learning from mistakes, and creating spaces that feel good for both clients and staff. Whether you’re an aspiring salon entrepreneur or interested in hearing about the visionary approach for a better working-life for all in the hairdressing industry, this episode is packed with insight and inspiration. Chapter Timestamps: 6:53 Danielle's Journey to Wildflower Studio 11:58 Creating a Nurturing Work Environment 16:56 The Importance of Core Values 22:39 Navigating Burnout and Self-Care 32:47 Exploring Toxicity in Hair Products 41:41 Introducing Wholehearted Concepts 48:08 Rapid-Fire Questions with Danielle Resources: Samantha Cusick Salon Website (Click Here) Sta Studios Silly Little Girls Club Podcast on Spotify (Click Here) Instagram: @smantha.cusick | @sta__studios Danielle Garner: Website | Instagram: @daniellegarner Wildflower: Website | Instagram: @wildflower.dublin Wholehearted: Website | Instagram: @wholehearted.dublin

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, the youngest female president of the Fellowship for British Hairdressing and founder of MASH Studios London, a creative space for freelancers. In this insightful episode, Ashleigh shares her journey from working in her mother's salon to becoming a leader in a male-dominated industry. Explore the challenges women face, including self-doubt and microaggressions, and discover how mentorship and community support can make a difference. Gain valuable leadership insights as Ashleigh emphasises the importance of authenticity, creativity, and passion. This episode is a must-listen for aspiring female leaders and hairdressers! Join Samantha again next week for more inspiring conversations celebrating women in business, with Jordanna Cobella. Chapters 3:15: Spotlight on Ashleigh Hodges 7:19: Journey to Leadership 10:06: Creating Safe Spaces 14:00: Building a Community 16:25: Embracing Change 21:43: The Role of Women 25:38: Micro-aggressions in Business 27:37: Channeling Experiences 28:28: The Importance of Collaboration 33:56: Celebrating Women in Business 37:09: Navigating Awards and Recognition Links to todays episode Samantha Cusick salon website click HERE Sta Studios visit sta-studios.com Silly Little Girls Club podcast on Spotify click HERE Samantha Cusick on Instagram @smantha.cusick Sta Studios on Instagram @sta__studios Fellowship for British Hairdressing visit HERE Ashleigh Hodges on Instagram @ashleigh_hodges_hair Ashleigh Hodges website visit HERE Mash Creative visit mash-creative.co.uk