Cutting Through The Noise

In this episode, Hayley Mears welcomes Sophia Hilton, who discusses her business's transformation from a salon owner to a holistic business and life coach with "Not Another Club," already boasting 320 members and aiming for 1,000 within two years. They delve into Sophia's organisational strategies for a "disorganised brain," their shared use of AI for efficiency, and the unexpected value of mundane tasks. PLUS..Sophia's upcoming appearance at CPR's 2026 Salon Forum in Tasmania, focusing on courage and embracing a digital nomad lifestyle.

• Sophia Hilton's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hiltonsophia/
• Not Another Club Website: https://www.notanotherclub.com/
• Sophia Hilton's Linktree: https://linktr.ee/sophiahilton
• Not Another Salon Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/notanothersalon/
• Book Your Ticket to See Sophia at Salon Forum: https://www.the-circle.cprhair.com/the-salon-forum

In this episode of Cutting Through the Noise, host Hayley Mears is joined by Simon Pitt and Megan Pitt to discuss their shared mission of bringing cutting-edge innovation to both hair and skin. Together, they unpack the stories behind two standout brands—Goddess, a dual-peptide hair repair and protection product, and Matter of Fact, a Korean-inspired skincare line designed to simplify and elevate consumer routines.

Simon Pitt, with over 40 years in the hairdressing industry, reflects on a career that’s taken him from Steiner in the UK through to global names like Wella, Sebastian, and Schwarzkopf. His years at Oz Hair saw him play a major role in launching the cult brand Eleven and later K18 during the height of COVID. Today, he’s driving the next evolution of professional haircare with Goddess—a biotech-powered innovation that rebuilds and protects hair against the biggest modern culprit: heat damage.

Megan Pitt introduces Matter of Fact, a skincare line born out of founder Paul Beck’s personal journey with acne and his passion for developing stable, effective products. With just seven multi-functional products—split into a nourishing “white range” and a targeted “blue range”—Matter of Fact makes advanced skincare accessible without overwhelming clients. Megan highlights the breakthrough technology of waterless Vitamin C, which maintains potency and tackles concerns from pigmentation to rosacea.

Throughout the conversation, Simon and Megan stress their commitment to accessibility. Goddess and Matter of Fact aren’t exclusive to high-end salons—they’re designed to be adopted across the industry, with simple education and consumer-friendly resources that empower stylists and salon owners to recommend with confidence.

🔑 Key Highlights from the Episode:

• The major objectives: Increasing stockists and building brand awareness for both hair and skincare lines.
• Simon’s career journey: Four decades in hairdressing, global education, and product launches that shaped the industry.
• Goddess innovation: Dual-action peptides that repair hair internally and protect externally—plus the biotech blowout that extends blow dry life.
• Matter of Fact skincare: A Korean-inspired line with stability at its core, offering simplicity and efficacy with only seven products.
• Consumer education: Why clients are more interested than ever in the “why” behind products—and how brands can meet that demand.
• Accessibility for all salons: Both ranges are designed to align with market needs and fit seamlessly into any salon environment.
• Future plans: Global launches, travel, and connecting with key innovators driving these brands forward.

🎧 If you’re a salon owner, stylist, or beauty professional looking for the next wave of innovation in both hair and skin, this episode is packed with insights, education, and inspiration.

🔗 Useful Links

https://salonproaus.com.au/

https://www.instagram.com/salonproaus/

https://www.instagram.com/matteroffact/

In this special episode recorded live at HairCon in Manchester, Hayley sits down with Jason and Charity from Vagaro—the tech company making serious waves in salon software. With a stand that stole the show (think Coachella meets hair tech), Vagaro didn’t just bring innovation—they brought vibe.

This conversation explores:

• Why Vagaro returned to HairCon with an even bigger impact in 2025
• How the brand brought California flair to the UK festival scene
• Their unique customer-first product strategy using “User Voice”
• What sets Vagaro apart in the competitive salon tech landscape
• Why they’ve got their eyes set on Australia for future expansion

💡 Customer-Centric Innovation

Vagaro’s journey began over 16 years ago, catering to solo hairdressers. Today, the platform supports multi-location salons with dozens of staff, thanks to its commitment to listening, evolving, and innovating. With tools like automated websites, e-marketing powered by AI, and seamless booking via Instagram, Vagaro empowers salon owners to streamline operations and focus on what they do best—serving clients.

🌏 A Global Vision with Aussie Appeal

While already successful in the UK and US, Vagaro has its sights firmly set on Australia. The team believes Aussie salon culture is perfectly aligned with their user base: creative, community-driven, and tech-embracing. And with their responsive software and robust education tools, they’re eager to help Australian salon businesses thrive.

🤖 The Role of AI in Everyday Salon Life

Forget gimmicks—Vagaro is weaving AI into everyday salon operations like spell-checking marketing emails, generating on-brand content, and syncing business tools in real time. For them, AI isn’t a feature—it’s the future. As Charity explains, “In the future, AI will be like electricity. It just works in the background. You won’t even realise you’re using it.”

🎯 Why Small Business Owners Inspire the Tech Team

Charity highlights that her biggest inspiration isn’t a Silicon Valley guru—it’s the salon owners themselves. From solopreneurs to multi-salon operators, these are the people navigating creativity, business, and leadership every day. Vagaro’s mission is to support them with tools that save time, generate income, and simplify the business side of beauty.

💬 From the Episode:

“Everything we build is about our customers. From features to visuals, we use real user feedback to shape the roadmap.” — Jason

“Salon owners wear so many hats. We want to be the tool that makes it easier to juggle them all.” — Charity

📲 Don’t miss the social content from this episode—Hayley captured the full Vagaro HairCon experience, from stage design to behind-the-scenes moments. It’s a visual treat and a lesson in branded storytelling.

Connect with Jason and Charity

📸 @jasonjdownes

📸 @charity_hudnall

Connect with Vagaro:

🔗 Visit Vagaro https://www.vagaro.com/en-au/pro

📸 @vagaropro on Instagram

In this exciting live episode from Manchester, we sit down with industry veteran and entrepreneur John Gillespie, whose work with Phenix Salon Suites is shaking up the UK hair and beauty scene. A hairdresser by trade with deep roots in the industry, John has gone from sweeping floors in his parents’ salon to performing in over 60 countries and launching a game-changing business model that empowers stylists across the globe.

Highlights from the Episode:

• From Salon Owner to Global Educator: John shares his journey from a small salon in Scotland to stages across Asia, Australia, and the U.S., and how he learned every facet of the hairdressing world—from technical education to live QVC appearances.
• Discovering Phenix in the U.S.: During a trip to Dallas, John encountered the salon suite model for the first time—and immediately knew it had the potential to transform the UK industry. His reaction? “I need to get into this.”
• The Phenix Salon Suite Model: Unlike traditional salon rentals, Phenix offers stylists:
  • Fully equipped, customisable private suites
  • 24/7 access and complete autonomy
  • No long-term contracts—just a 45-day notice period
  • All-inclusive weekly rent (starting around £250)
  • Built-in business, social media, and pricing support
  • A community culture with connection events and mentoring
• Adapting to a Post-COVID Industry: COVID accelerated the demand for 1:1 beauty services, wellness, and work-life balance—values at the core of Phenix Salon Suite’s model. John calls it “true independence, on your terms.”
• Massive UK Expansion (and Beyond): With six UK locations and counting—including their flagship in Manchester—Phenix is aiming for 25–30 locations nationwide, with global expansion also in motion (Australia, Japan, Europe).
• Why It’s Not Just About Renting a Room: Phenix isn’t just renting space—it’s about giving creatives the tools to thrive in business. John’s mission: “I want to see hairdressers doing well. I want to see them making the money they deserve.”

🎧 Listen now for an honest, inspiring conversation about disrupting tradition, building community, and empowering beauty professionals to truly take control of their careers.

🔗 Useful Links:

Phenix Salon Suites UK: https://phenixsalonsuitesuk.com/

Instagram – Phenix UK: @phenixsalonsuitesuk

Facebook - Phenix UK: Phenix Salon Suites UK

Instagram – John Gillespie: @jgcreativegroup

In this special episode, Hayley welcomes back the inspiring Josie Bryce Smith—founder of Original & Mineral (O&M)—alongside creative powerhouse Jay Edwards and international educator Kindale Godbee from the United States. Together, they take us behind the scenes of one of the most anticipated events on the hairdressing calendar: Made for Originals 2024.

Now in its third year, Made for Originals has evolved into a truly immersive and globally recognised event, celebrating innovation, individuality, and artistry in the hair industry. With major brand partners like TikTok, Dyson, and Timely, and an impressive lineup of 24 industry talents, this is not just an education event—it’s a full-blown hair experience.

💡 The Vision Behind Made for Originals

Josie shares the origin story of the event—born out of a desire to disrupt traditional education formats and create something experiential, mobile, and artistic. Inspired by Refinery29’s 29Rooms, Josie envisioned an event where hairdressers could explore, create, and connect without limits. What started as a concept for a small in-office activation now attracts over 700 attendees and has a national reputation.

🌏 Global Talent, Local Impact

Jay and Kindale reflect on their journeys with O&M—what drew them to the brand, how their roles have evolved, and what they’ll be bringing to this year’s event. From express colour services that deliver maximum impact in minimum time, to curl-focused education that empowers stylists and clients alike, both educators are committed to offering practical, high-impact insights that reflect global trends and client behaviour.

✨ What to Expect This Year:

• A stunning venue at White Bay Terminal with panoramic natural light
• Exclusive product launches, including O&M’s new Curl Range
• A sneak peek at a new science-backed range launching in October
• Business education, interactive installations, and hands-on sessions
• A replica of Josie’s home for intimate podcast-style interviews
• A commitment to supporting apprentices and emerging stylists

📊 Education That Reflects Today’s Salon Reality

Jay breaks down his decision to focus on simplified, luxurious colour services that speak to current client demands—lower-maintenance, higher-value services that support salon sustainability. Kendall highlights a global shift toward texture celebration, colour confidence, and curl freedom—sharing how she plans to bring this energy to Australian audiences.

🎟️ Made for Originals is a once-a-year chance to experience education, community, and culture in a way Australia has never seen before. Whether you’re a seasoned stylist or an apprentice just getting started, this event is your invitation to evolve, connect, and be inspired.

🎫 Secure Your Spot & Stay Connected:

• Tickets https://originalmineralpro.com/pages/mfo-2025
• Limited apprentice tickets available—DM O&M for access
• Instagram: @originalmineral

In this special HairCon edition of Cutting Through the Noise, Hayley Mears sits down with the vibrant and passionate Demetri Deacon-Jones, EMEA Beauty Experience Training Manager at Dyson, for an energetic chat on the intersection of engineering and creativity in professional hairdressing.

Set against the buzzing, festival-style backdrop of HairCon—a venue filled with exposed beams, music, and hairdressing's best minds—this episode captures the magic of the event while diving deep into how Dyson is changing the hair game with tools designed for both professionals and consumers.

💡 Key Topics Covered:

• What makes HairCon such a unique and inclusive event
• How Dyson’s professional tools—including the Supersonic r™ and Corrale™—are built with stylists in mind
• Demetri’s journey from salon stylist to global beauty educator
• Why authenticity and innovation are central to Dyson’s product development
• The experience of working at a globally recognised brand that’s deeply rooted in technology and design
• How Dyson bridges the gap between scientific engineering and creative styling
• Cultural differences and similarities in hairdressing across international markets
• Demetri’s favourite tools and the hair looks he’s most passionate about
• Industry icons that inspire Demetri—including Trevor Sorbie and Sam McKnight

Demetri shares what it’s like being at the forefront of Dyson’s pro-education initiatives and how he helps translate technical innovation into real-world creativity. Whether he’s on set with stylists or collaborating with engineers behind the scenes, Demetri’s mission is clear: empower hair professionals with tools that are powerful, intuitive, and truly pro-first.

Expect candid moments, laughs, and thoughtful reflections on where the hair industry is heading—and what it means to work for a brand that’s leading with purpose.

🔗 Guest Link: @demetrideaconjones

Bio:

Demetri Deacon-Jones is the EMEA Beauty Experience Training Manager at Dyson. With over 15 years of experience in the beauty and wellness industry, Demetri is passionate about enhancing customer experiences, fostering talent development, and driving business growth through cutting-edge training initiatives.

🔗 Connect with Dyson

🌐 Dyson Professional Hair Tools

📸 Instagram: @dysonhairpro

📸 Instagram: @dysonbeauty

Engineered for stylists, Dyson’s tools are built for maximum control, comfort, and performance. Featuring the Dyson Supersonic™ r™ Professional hair dryer, Supersonic™, and the Corrale™ Straightener, this professional range is designed to deliver stunning results while maintaining hair health.

In this episode, host Hayley Mears sits down with ADHD coach Caroline Beresford to explore the fascinating links between ADHD and the hairdressing industry. With a background in science and business, Caroline now works with clients to better understand and manage the unique ways ADHD shows up in their lives. And in this conversation, she brings powerful insights—particularly for creatives in service-based industries.

Together, Hayley and Caroline unpack why so many hairdressers resonate with ADHD traits. From thriving in client-facing environments to navigating fast-paced, hands-on work, the industry naturally attracts neurodivergent individuals who often excel in intuitive and creative settings. Caroline shares her perspective on reframing ADHD—not as a disorder, but as a “deficit of interest,” where motivation hinges on stimulation and engagement rather than structure alone.

They also dive into their personal experiences with career pivots and late diagnosis. Caroline was diagnosed with ADHD at 47, after years of navigating professional life without the language or tools to fully understand how her brain worked. That turning point brought clarity—and inspired her to support others through coaching.

Other key topics covered:

🔹 Why ADHD often shows up in industries like hairdressing

🔹 How ADHD affects working memory and productivity

🔹 The impact of perimenopause and hormonal shifts on ADHD symptoms in women

🔹 The long and frustrating road to diagnosis and treatment

🔹 The current state of medication availability in Australia

🔹 Why coaching is critical in managing executive dysfunction—and how it complements therapy

If you’ve ever wondered why your brain works the way it does, why hairdressing seems to “fit” in all the right ways, or how to better support neurodivergent team members or clients—this episode is one to bookmark.

🔗 Connect with Caroline Beresford:

Website: The ADDvocacy Project

LinkedIn: Caroline Beresford

Instagram: @carolineberesford_coach

In this episode, Hayley Mears chats with UK-based stylist, educator, and salon owner Luke Benson, who joins the podcast fresh off a 24-hour flight to Australia for Keune’s 30th anniversary event. Despite jet lag and timezone chaos, Luke dives into a high-energy, no-holds-barred conversation about the state of the hair industry, both in the UK and globally.

With over 21 years in hairdressing, Luke has carved out a unique path—bridging the worlds of salon ownership, editorial styling, education, and celebrity grooming. A former London Hairdresser of the Year, Luke has built a career that spans award stages, international platforms, and red carpets.

Luke opens up about how a bleach mishap in his teens sparked his interest in the salon space, eventually leading him to train under Terry Calvert at Clipso. From there, his career included time at HOB and stints across high-end salons in London, before launching into session styling full-time. His resume includes work with Billie Eilish, Liam Payne, Joe Jonas, Zayn Malik, and Michelle Keegan, along with editorials for Vogue, GQ, Vanity Fair, Elle, and brands like Dior, Paul Smith, Harrods, and Hugo Boss.

He also discusses:

• The reality of being a Global Ambassador for Keune, prepping nine models for a major show in Sydney.
• The pressure (and joy) of building a salon brand while still managing red carpet work and education.
• His views on freelance models and the VAT system hitting UK salons hard.
• Why he’s focused on employing his staff instead of going hybrid—and what that means for the culture of his salon.
• Navigating AI in the industry—when it’s a tool for growth vs. when it’s a shortcut.
• The generational shift in education: why classic cutting might be missing from today’s trend-focused training.
• Using Instagram as a hiring and booking tool, and how marketing defines your client base before they walk in the door.

Known for his beauty-focused yet fashion-forward style, Luke balances technical excellence with sharp creative direction. He shares what it’s like to go from hairdressing royalty to "starting again" in the editorial world—where his awards meant little and results meant everything.

As he continues to grow “Brand Luke,” his goal is to build something sustainable—not just for himself, but for the next generation of stylists. With an eye on mentorship, education, and elevating the perception of hairdressing as a career, this episode is a goldmine for anyone in the industry looking to grow creatively and commercially.

🎧 Listen now to hear:

• How Luke transitioned from apprentice to editorial powerhouse
• The economics of owning a salon in the UK right now
• His advice for young hairdressers in a social-first world
• Where he thinks the future of the industry is heading

🔗 Connect with Luke:

• Instagram:
  • @lukebensonsalon
  • @lukebensoncreative
  • @keunehaircosmetics
• Website: https://www.lukebensonsalon.com/

In this episode, we sit down with none other than Jules Tognini—a creative force in the hair industry whose career has taken unexpected turns and exciting pivots. Jules is known for being a fearless educator, an innovator in the salon space, and a dynamic presence behind the chair. But before the scissors and the stage lights, he was at a sewing machine in his parents’ garage building a fashion business.

Yep—you read that right. Jules didn’t begin in hairdressing; he started in fashion design. After attending fashion school to learn sewing and pattern making, Jules launched his own clothing label, stocking stores across Australia and even a few in Asia. That early hustle taught him not just about design, but about what it takes to build a business from scratch.

Eventually, the scissors called. Jules found his way into hair and quickly turned heads—not just as a stylist, but as an educator. While still a third-year apprentice, he was already working as an educator with Matrix. That drive to teach and inspire has never left him.

Fast-forward to today: Jules and his brother Christian now run the family salon, having taken the reins from their parents about five years ago. But true to form, Jules isn’t standing still. He’s gearing up to launch a brand-new online education platform—Education—focused on hair cutting. The platform is designed to be accessible and real, and it’s launching in just six weeks. Jules is co-creating the project with longtime friend and fellow educator Lauren McCowan, and the pair will be debuting the program with a live show at Hair Fest.

Beyond the big launches and business shifts, Jules gets candid about the reality of work-life balance. He shares how his perspective has changed over the years—from always grinding, to learning how to manage his time so he doesn’t miss his kids’ school plays or family milestones. He’s honest about the juggle, the guilt, and the growth it takes to create space for both family and ambition. His take? Success doesn’t follow a 9-to-5 schedule—and he’s OK with that.

And if that wasn’t enough, Jules is also relocating his salon. He's moving into Gasworks, a more residential area of Brisbane with better parking and foot traffic. The move reflects a smart shift in strategy as he positions the business to better meet the needs of both clients and the team. Oh—and his former salon space? Recently snapped up by an accountancy firm for a cool $3.6 million. No big deal.

Whether you're a salon owner, an aspiring educator, or someone navigating what it means to do work you love without burning out, this conversation is packed with honest insight, creative energy, and a few good laughs too.

Tune in as Jules talks:

🔹 Building a fashion business from his parents’ garage

🔹 Becoming an educator while still an apprentice

🔹 Taking over the family salon with his brother

🔹 Launching Education, a new online haircutting platform

🔹 Collaborating with Lauren McCowan at Hair Fest

🔹 Reframing success and managing the work/life juggle

🔹 The bold move to relocate his Brisbane salon

This one’s got heart, hustle, and a whole lot of real talk.

🔗 Connect with Jules Tognini:

https://liloffthetop.com/

Email: [email protected]

Instagram:

@liloffthetop

@heducation.hair

TikTok

@heducation.hair

In this episode, Hayley and Stephanie dive into what’s new behind the scenes and where you can find them next. From major industry events to candid conversations about what’s really happening in the hair and beauty world, this episode is all about staying visible and staying honest.

Upcoming Events HairCon – Manchester, UK (June 2025)

• Stephanie and Hayley will be moderating panels, including a live discussion with Susan Powell, co-founder of GHD
• Hayley and Stephanie will be reporting from the floor, curating content and coverage for the digital space
• Expect sharp insights, big conversations, and key takeaways for salon owners and stylists alike

Hair Festival – Sydney, Australia (June 30, 2025)

• The Cutting Through the Noise team will be live on the education stage
• Stephanie is set to speak on building a brand from the ground up and what it takes to go global
• Hayley will lead sessions focused on marketing strategy, digital trends, and connecting with today’s audience

Industry Trends We’re Watching

• The solo operator surge and how brands need to respond
• The disconnect between brand messaging and what stylists actually need
• Why high-value education is outperforming traditional advertising

What We’ve Been Working On

• Upcoming guest interviews and behind-the-scenes updates
• Trends and challenges from Stephanie’s business coaching and consulting work
• Marketing insights from Hayley’s agency and client-side perspective

If you’re attending HairCon or Hair Festival, come find us. We’ll be sharing the real stories, having real conversations, and keeping things honest – as always.

- HairCon Manchester: https://haircon.co.uk/

- Hair Festival Sydney: https://hairfestival.com.au/