Cutting Through The Noise

In this episode of Cutting Through the Noise, Hayley Mears is joined by industry icon Tabatha Coffey for a wide-ranging and deeply honest conversation about growth, discomfort, and the realities of building a sustainable career in the hair industry.

Drawing from salon forum discussions and decades of global experience, Tabatha shares why growth isn’t meant to feel comfortable — and why chasing too much expansion at once can fragment focus and energy. From scaling a business to personal reinvention, they unpack the importance of planning, logistics, and creating a sense of safety when navigating disruption.

The conversation also explores the differences between the Australian and US hair industries, with Tabatha highlighting Australia’s strong team-based culture, high calibre of work, and thoughtful approach to education. While AI and automation are rapidly reshaping admin, marketing, and customer touchpoints, both agree that human connection, communication, and touch remain irreplaceable — making soft skills training more important than ever.

Tabatha introduces somatic work as a powerful tool for overcoming resistance to change, helping salon owners and creatives move beyond paralysis, procrastination, and burnout. By aligning decisions with personal values and learning to respond rather than react, long-term confidence and self-trust become possible.

The episode closes with a candid discussion on hustle culture, the difference between hard work and sacrifice, and why “not all money is good money.” Tabatha offers grounded advice for both seasoned salon owners and those just starting out: sustainable success comes from fluidity, self-awareness, and a willingness to stay uncomfortable — on purpose.

In this episode, we cover:

• Why growth always involves discomfort — and why that’s a good thing
• The danger of chasing too many goals at once
• Key differences between the Australian and US hair industries
• How AI will reshape admin, but not human connection
• Why soft skills and communication training are essential
• Using somatic work to move through fear and resistance
• Making decisions aligned with personal values
• Hard work vs sacrifice — and dismantling hustle culture
• Advice for the next generation of hair professionals

Useful Links:

• https://www.tabathacoffey.com/
• https://www.instagram.com/tabathacoffey/

In this kick-off episode for 2026 of Cutting Through the Noise, Hayley Mears sits down with Jordan Alexander — co-founder of Goddess — to unpack what it really takes to build a global hair brand without losing sight of the hairdresser.

Although recorded in late 2025, this conversation looks firmly ahead. Jordan shares why 2026 marks the first full year of Goddess following its launch in April 2025, and how the brand has spent its early months prioritising compliance, regulation, and long-term foundations before rapid global expansion — with plans to be present in over 100 countries by early 2026.

Jordan reflects on growing up in the hair industry, rebelling against it briefly through a pre-law degree, before finding their way back behind the chair via Toni & Guy. A move to Los Angeles and working alongside celebrity colourist Tracy Cunningham sparked a deeper passion for chemical services, eventually leading to the launch of category-defining brands including Olaplex and later K18.

Now with Goddess, Jordan explains why this chapter feels different. With mentors Ed Conigan and Denise Russell as hands-on owners, the focus has shifted toward simplifying the stylist’s life — creating products that genuinely perform, not just market well. Central to that philosophy is Goddess’s move away from repair-led narratives toward protection-first hair science, including the development of the brand’s proprietary “Goddess molecule” inspired by silk biomaterials.

The conversation dives deep into product development, including the upcoming shampoo and conditioner launching in January, and why high performance must always outweigh hype. Jordan breaks down how Goddess functions like a Swiss Army knife for hair — strengthening strands over time, extending blow-dries, reducing styling time, and improving manageability with continued use.

Beyond product, Hayley and Jordan explore broader industry shifts — from the rise of booth and suite models in the US to the decline of major trade shows and education platforms. Jordan shares concerns around the loss of collaboration, mentorship, and inspiration when hairdressers operate in isolation, and reinforces the importance of lifelong education at every stage of a career.

The discussion also touches on retail, distribution, and the evolving role of technology. While innovation has its place, both agree that hairdressing remains a human-to-human industry — one built on touch, intuition, relationships, and shared experience — something AI and automation can never fully replace.

Jordan also reflects on working with celebrity clients, the realities of global travel, and the biggest lesson learned across decades in the industry: brands only thrive when hairdressers and salons remain the top priority.

A thoughtful, honest conversation about protection over repair, people over platforms, and why the future of hair depends on staying human.

Useful Links

Jordan Alexander: @jordanstylist

Goddess: @goddessmaintenanceco

In this episode, Hayley Mears is joined by two industry icons — Emiliano Vitale and Lisa Vitale of the award-winning é Salon. Celebrating 25 years in business, é Salon is built on a core philosophy that has shaped every part of their success: “We see people first, hair second.”

Emiliano shares the story behind é Salon’s legacy — from starting in the industry at age 11 to opening their first salon at just 22, and later building one of Australia’s most respected creative and cultural pillars. Their formula? Values, consistency, and the power of “repetition, repetition, repetition.”

Lisa opens up about her evolution as a creative force. From winning major national awards to stepping back during motherhood, and now returning with more hunger and maturity. Her new avant-garde collection, Ascension (shot in the UK) marks her entry into the Australian Hairdresser of the Year category at AHFAS. A reset, a rise, and a reclaiming of artistry.

Together, the Vitales unpack culture, work ethic, leadership, and the importance of being uncompromising on vision while remaining flexible in how that vision is delivered. They discuss how hard work always beats talent, why culture starts with the owners, and why they're entering a new renaissance season as their family grows.

A powerful and deeply human episode for anyone wanting longevity, legacy, and creativity in the hair industry.

KEY TOPICS COVERED

• The 25-year history and philosophy behind E Salon
• Culture: why owners set 50% of it — and how the team shapes the rest
• Lisa Vitale’s creative resurgence and her new collection, Ascension
• What it takes to enter the “Australian Hairdresser of the Year” category
• The impact of motherhood, maturity, and realigning purpose
• Avant-garde hair artistry vs. commercial trends
• Why repetition is the foundation of E Salon’s profitability
• Hard work over talent — and the values they teach their children
• International opportunities and future collaborations
• Rebuilding the brand for its next era

USEFUL LINKS

https://esalonhair.com.au/

E Salon – https://www.instagram.com/esalonhair/

Lisa Vitale – https://www.instagram.com/lisa.esalonhair/

Emiliano Vitale – https://www.instagram.com/emilianovitale.esalonhair/

In this episode, Hayley Mears sits down with Vince Saunders, owner and founder of Bonce Hair Boutique in regional South Australia — a salon known for its sharp branding, strong culture, and clever community-led marketing.

Vince opens up about the recruitment crisis facing salon owners, why fewer stylists want to work in traditional teams, and how shifting expectations around work–life balance are reshaping the industry. He shares how buying a salon in a town of 8,000 became a strategic advantage, and why standing out in a regional market requires a totally different approach than competing in a capital city.

Hayley and Vince also unpack Bonce Hair Boutique’s unique marketing strategy — using local community engagement, SEO, and blog content to drive new clients. For Vince, social media is last on the list. Instead, he focuses on building a digital presence that works when people search, not scroll.

The conversation dives into Vince’s leadership philosophy, the importance of nurturing a unified team culture, and the mindset shift required to stop “wearing too many hats” as a salon owner. Vince also reveals his next big move: expanding into the booming pet industry with a dog daycare and grooming facility, leveraging his existing salon audience to diversify revenue.

A grounded, insightful episode for salon owners navigating growth, leadership, and the realities of running a modern business.

Key Topics Covered

• Why salon recruitment is harder than ever — and how to attract team-minded stylists
• The advantage of owning a salon in a regional town
• Branding that cuts through: how Bonce Hair Boutique positioned itself against local competitors
• Using local events, blogs, and SEO to generate new clients organically
• The declining role of social media in client acquisition
• Leadership lessons: setting the “weather” in your salon
• Staff expectations, work–life balance, and evolving employment models
• Diversifying beyond hair: launching a dog daycare and grooming business
• Improving delegation and letting go of too many roles
• Podcasts and resources Vince uses to stay ahead

Useful Links

https://boncehairboutique.com/

https://www.instagram.com/boncehairboutique/

In this episode of Cutting Through the Noise, Hayley Mears sits down with Chrystofer Benson and Hannah Benson — the creative forces behind CBC Productions — for an honest conversation about purpose, partnership, and the power of intention.

The discussion opens with a shared appreciation for authenticity in podcasting — a natural, unfiltered flow where real stories of success and struggle connect deeper than scripted soundbites ever could.

Chrystofer, a third-generation hairdresser with over 30 years in the industry, shares how a single “non-win” at a competition became the turning point that fuelled his global career. He reflects on the evolution of CBC Productions, founded in 2015, and how it became a creative space designed to help other artists thrive in a rapidly shifting, social-media-driven landscape.

Hannah, who began as a model in one of Chrystofer’s shows before transitioning into a creative partnership, shares her journey from beauty school to full-time production director. Her intentionality — from diagramming cuts backstage to producing cinematic-level videos — caught Chrystofer’s attention and ultimately led to a dynamic collaboration that has accelerated both their careers.

Together, they’ve built a brand known for its signature aesthetic, creative integrity, and high-value educational content. Their chemistry, built on trust and shared values, has made CBC Productions synonymous with quality and innovation in the global hair community.

The conversation also explores the deeper side of leadership and creativity — wellness, boundaries, and surrounding yourself with the right people. Chrystofer shares his biggest career lesson: learning to be “less loyal to a fault”, while Hannah highlights the importance of “making the most of every opportunity.”

Both emphasise that intention drives everything they do — from creative direction to client relationships — guided by the mantra: “Intent. Plan. Action. Outcome.

This episode is a masterclass in authenticity, creative discipline, and how intention shapes every part of your journey.

💡 Highlights

• The evolution of CBC Productions and creative synergy between Chrystofer & Hannah
• Building a business grounded in intention, integrity, and energy
• Chrystofer’s biggest career lesson: being less loyal to a fault
• Hannah’s biggest takeaway: make the most of every opportunity
• “Not all money is good money” — setting values-based boundaries in business
• Why wellness, planning, and clear intention are vital for creative longevity
• The mantra: Intent. Plan. Action. Outcome.
• Elevating education and production in the global hair industry
• The importance of surrounding yourself with the right people

🔗 Connect & Follow

https://www.instagram.com/cbensonhair

https://www.instagram.com/collectiveinkd

https://www.instagram.com/haircbc_pro

https://www.instagram.com/hannah.patricia.benson

https://weteachme.com/classes/1044785-the-salon-forum-2026-tasmania?srsltid=AfmBOoretLn7ajpvjFS-25-U-jkxtXXIRIJ4v7h0aKw80tj46BvHOpKP

In this episode of Cutting Through the Noise, Hayley Mears and Stephanie Mason finally reconnect after a whirlwind year of global events, career milestones, and industry evolution.

Steph shares her journey stepping into her new role as Global Managing Director of Cloud Nine, reflecting on leadership, brand integrity, and what it’s like to run a family-owned powerhouse from Europe. She gives a behind-the-scenes look at how Cloud Nine’s founders continue to build smart, intentional growth — and what that’s teaching her about running a global business with purpose.

The two dive into the energy of HairCon and Hair Festival, calling HairCon “Coachella for hair” — a raw, authentic, and immersive experience that’s setting a new benchmark for how industry events should feel. From meeting the CEO of K18 on the floor to celebrating Aussie talent like Cain Mackay, it’s clear these events have redefined connection and creativity in the salon space.

Their chat moves into the deep end with a real talk on AI and the business of hair. Steph and Hayley explore how automation and AI will reshape the salon landscape — from admin and marketing to education and efficiency. They discuss how salon owners can upskill fast, get ahead of the curve, and use AI tools to work smarter, not harder.

They also reflect on post-COVID business realities — the salon closures, sole trader boom, and the evolving definition of success in today’s economy. Both agree: the future belongs to those who adapt.

This episode is raw, unfiltered, and filled with valuable insight on leadership, innovation, and what’s next for the global beauty industry.

💡 Highlights

• Steph Mason’s transition to Global MD at Cloud Nine
• Key lessons from working with founders Gavin and Martin
• Reflections on HairCon and Hair Festival — redefining industry events
• The changing face of the UK and Australian salon markets
• Post-COVID business realities: closures, resilience, and reinvention
• AI in the salon industry — efficiency, education, and empowerment
• Why upskilling in AI is now a must, not a maybe

🔗 Useful Links

Connect with Hayley Mears:

Instagram: @haylsmears

Connect with Stephanie Mason:

Instagram: @stephaniemason

In this episode, Hayley Mears sits down with Shakira Dickinson, the founder of Hair Candy, an award-winning hair extensions business with three salons across Queensland and an e-commerce education brand. Shakira shares her 18-year journey from working out of a spare bedroom to building one of Australia’s leading hair extension empires.

She opens up about the power of consistency, adapting to change, and learning on the job — even when faced with challenges like team turnover, economic downturns, and the constant evolution of digital marketing.

From surviving the chaos of COVID-19 to mastering Meta ads and embracing AI in creative development, Shakira’s story is a masterclass in entrepreneurial resilience and reinvention.

✂️ Highlights from the Episode

The 18-Year Journey of Hair Candy

Shakira shares how she started Hair Candy at just 20 years old, working from home and slowly building her client base. What began as a single-person operation has grown into three salons across Brisbane and the Gold Coast — plus a thriving wholesale and education business.

Consistency, Persistence & Growth

Shakira believes consistency is the real key to success — choosing one thing, sticking to it, and growing within it rather than constantly chasing new ideas. She reveals how this focus allowed Hair Candy to expand sustainably, even during uncertain times.

Adapting to Change in Business & Marketing

From industry shifts to the rise of rent-a-chair models and changing consumer behaviour, Shakira explains how she keeps Hair Candy relevant. She also discusses how authenticity on social media now outperforms polished marketing.

Mastering Meta Ads

As the upcoming speaker for Salon Forum 2026, Shakira will share her talk “Meta Moves” — diving into how salon owners can take control of their business growth through Meta advertising. She discusses how ads can act like a “tap” for client flow — and why personally managing ad campaigns can make all the difference.

AI, Canva & Creative Innovation

Shakira and her team use AI and Canva to streamline their creative process, from quick content editing to adding realistic elements to brand visuals. She highlights how AI is reshaping creative work for salon businesses by making design faster and more intuitive.

Overcoming Setbacks & Rebuilding Leadership

Shakira reflects on one of her biggest challenges — when her entire team left during COVID-19. Instead of folding, she rebuilt stronger, using the moment to refine her leadership style and align her team with Hair Candy’s long-term vision.

Learning by Doing

Shakira embodies the philosophy that “everything is figureoutable.” She shares how on-the-job learning and failure have been her best teachers — and how embracing uncertainty has allowed her to evolve alongside her business.

🔗 Useful Links

Connect with Shakira Dickinson & Hair Candy:

@haircandyextensions

@haircandyaustralia

@_shakirajade

Listen to The Success Club Podcast:

Apple Podcasts

Spotify

In this episode, Hayley Mears chats with Sonia Thomas, also known as The Salon Dr, who brings over 37 years of experience in the salon industry. From salon owner to corporate sales leader, Sonia shares the mindset, strategies, and communication skills that help salon professionals elevate their businesses — not through discounts or gimmicks, but through authentic client education, value-driven service, and confidence in their worth.

✂️ Highlights from the Episode

Sonia’s Career Journey & Passion for Sales

Sonia shares her evolution from salon owner to corporate sales professional, where she generated over $2.6 million in new business in her first year. Her time in corporate selling gave her a fresh perspective on the power of understanding customer pain points — a skill she now teaches salon owners to apply in their consultations.

The State of the Industry

Sonia discusses the changing salon landscape, noting that nearly 29% of salons closed last year, while 70% of hairdressers now work from home. She stresses that the future of the industry depends on mindset — valuing skill, professionalism, and education just as highly as any other trade.

Selling Through Education, Not Pressure

Rather than focusing on “selling,” Sonia reframes consultations as opportunities to educate clients. She explains how to build trust by speaking simply, asking questions, and securing permission before recommending aftercare, so conversations feel collaborative, not transactional.

Understanding Pain Points & Reading the Room

Sonia breaks down how to uncover a client’s real needs through active listening, open-ended questions, and body language awareness. When clients understand why a product or treatment is necessary, they feel empowered — turning the sales moment into a shared decision.

Reframing Client Objections

Sonia shares strategies for responding when clients mention cheaper online products. Instead of defensiveness, she advises empathy — understanding their reasoning and gently educating them about the risks of poor-quality alternatives. Confidence and belief in what you’re recommending are the real game-changers.

It’s About Value, Not Price

Drawing parallels to luxury experiences, Sonia explains that clients don’t mind paying premium prices when the service feels exceptional. Price resistance only arises when the perceived value drops — meaning small details and consistency are everything.

Growing Profit with Existing Clients

Sonia reveals how focusing on your current client base can transform profitability. One salon she mentored increased revenue by $57,000 in three months by applying her “high-ticket” and “accelerator” strategies — built on leadership, stock control, and clear financial understanding.

Overcoming Limiting Beliefs

Sonia challenges the common mindset that “clients can’t afford it.” She reminds stylists that clients often invest in what they want, not just what they need, and that confidence in your pricing and service creates trust. Stepping into the “unknown zone,” she says, is where real growth happens.

🔗 Useful Links

https://www.thesalondr.com.au/

https://www.instagram.com/thesalondr/

[email protected]

https://www.the-circle.cprhair.com/the-salon-forum

In this episode, Hayley Mears chats with Emily Ciardiello, entrepreneur and founder of Foil Me, the Australian brand that revolutionised pre-cut foils for hairdressers. Emily shares her journey from being a school teacher to launching Foil Me alongside her husband, growing it into an internationally recognised brand — all while navigating business, family, and well-being.

✂️ Highlights from the Episode

From Teacher to Entrepreneur:

Emily opens up about her career beginnings in education, teaching in Mount Gambier before moving back to Adelaide to raise her family. After becoming a mother of two, she decided to take the leap into entrepreneurship — founding Foil Me from her kitchen table.

The Birth of Foil Me:

Foil Me began during a hair appointment when Emily’s husband questioned why hair foils weren’t pre-cut — an idea borrowed from his experience in the food industry. After testing prototypes with local hairdressers, Foil Me launched “The Originals,” setting new standards for malleability, grip, and tear resistance.

Overcoming Early Challenges:

From visiting salons twice a week to gather feedback to refining the product’s unique alloy, Emily built the brand through persistence and genuine connection. Her focus on listening to stylists shaped Foil Me’s reputation for innovation and quality.

Global Growth & the US Expansion:

Emily shares the highs and lows of taking Foil Me global — from tackling US tariffs to the decision to establish their own American branch for better control and customer connection. Despite challenges, Foil Me’s commitment to quality continues to win over stylists worldwide.

Balancing Business & Family:

Emily reflects on the reality of running a business while raising a family, emphasising the importance of prioritising children’s well-being while accepting the moments she’s missed. Transcendental meditation has been key to maintaining focus, calm, and clarity throughout her entrepreneurial journey.

Well-being, Fitness & Boundaries:

From yoga and strength training to meditation and sauna therapy, Emily discusses how her personal health practices have become essential tools for longevity — both in business and life.

The Dressing Gown CEO Podcast:

Emily talks about her podcast The Dressing Gown CEO, which celebrates authenticity, comfort, and realness in business — encouraging listeners to show up as they are and share knowledge without the gloss.

Advice for Entrepreneurs:

Emily’s message to aspiring founders: back yourself and just start. Don’t wait for perfection or a detailed business plan — focus on solving a real problem, stay authentic, and reflect on how far you’ve come.

🔗 Useful Links

Foil Me

Foil Me on Instagram

Emily Ciardiello

In this episode of Cutting Through the Noise, Hayley Mears sits down with Gavin Hinton, co-founder of Freedom Suites and long-time contributor to the Australian Hairdressing Council (AHC), to explore the changing landscape of the hair and beauty industry.

With 25 years of experience spanning software, sustainability, and distribution, Gavin has played a pivotal role in shaping the business side of hairdressing. From his early career with Ketrastase and Shortcut Software to founding Orb Distribution and now Freedom Suites, his passion for creating innovative solutions has always been driven by supporting hair professionals.

Together, Hayley and Gavin cover:

✨ The Freedom Suites model — private, fully equipped co-working suites for freelancers, designed with both style and functionality in mind.

🌏 International perspective — why salon suites dominate the US market and how Australian design is taking it further.

💼 The role of the AHC — elevating professional standards, advocating for the industry, and shaping government perception.

💇 Diverse career pathways — from salons and franchises to chair rentals and suites, and why flexibility makes hairdressing a future-proof career.

🔑 Advice for going solo — practical tips for professionals considering the leap into a salon suite.

🤝 Collaboration over competition — why unity within the industry is key to thriving in the face of external competition.

Whether you’re a salon owner, freelancer, or considering your next move, Gavin’s insights offer inspiration and practical knowledge on building a sustainable and independent future in the hairdressing industry.

🔗 Useful Links

https://www.instagram.com/gavinhinton/

https://www.instagram.com/freedomsuites/

https://www.freedomsuites.com.au/

https://www.instagram.com/aushaircouncil/