In this episode of Salon Rising: The Podcast, Sam and Jen sit down with the amazing Chantelle from Telleish for an honest, expansive conversation about what it truly takes to build and lead a large salon business, without losing yourself along the way. From humble beginnings and major personal sacrifice to creating one of Melbourne’s most iconic salons, Chantelle shares the reality behind the growth most people only see from the outside.

Together, they unpack the identity shift from hairdresser to leader, the emotional weight of managing big teams, pricing with confidence, paying stylists well, and why heart led business can be both your superpower and your biggest challenge. Chantelle also opens up about motherhood, stepping back from the floor, navigating staff turnover, and building systems that allow a salon to scale sustainably while still feeling human.

This episode is a grounded, real look at leadership, money, team culture, and long term thinking, especially for salon owners questioning what “success” actually looks like in this season of their life.

What we cover

1. The identity shift from stylist to leader (and why it can feel like grief)
2. Building and sustaining a large team without burning out
3. Pricing, profitability, and the roadmap to higher stylist earnings
4. Why not everyone will like you — and why that’s part of leadership
5. Creating a “salon for life” model that supports clients through every season

This episode is proof that there’s no single “right” way to build a salon. But there is a way to build one that feels rich in life, aligned with your values, and sustainable for the long haul.

Timestamps

00:00 Episode Summary

01:59 Guest Introduction

05:41 The Story Behind Telleish

09:56 Expanding and Innovating the Salon

22:44 Leadership and Team Management

30:00 Navigating Challenges and Personal Growth

41:30 Building Trust in the Workplace

41:46 The Importance of Team Loyalty

43:04 Challenges in the Hair Industry

44:00 Raising Prices to Elevate the Industry

44:48 Investing in Employee Growth

49:45 Balancing Business and Personal Life

55:06 Navigating Financial Challenges

58:26 Adapting to Industry Changes

1:12:22 The Value of Team Diversity

1:17:22 Concluding Thoughts and Future Plans

Mentioned in this episode:

https://www.salonrising.com

🎧 Event Spotlight: THIS GENERATION

THIS GENERATION, presented by Monique McMahon, is a one-day, industry-led education experience bringing together three hair artists and three unique creative perspectives.

Joining Monique on the day are Taylah Jones and UK award-winning colourist Luci Green, sharing modern technique, global trends and ideas you can take straight back behind the chair.

The day also includes a business and mindset conversation supported by Salon Rising, with Jen and Samara attending on the day.

📍 Edwards & Co Fortitude Valley

🎟 Tickets are limited — find all the details via the link below 👇

This Generation

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