Delusional

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Learning business in paradise while connecting with like-minded women.
Secure your early bird spot for the business retreat in Vietnam 2026. 

🎉 One year of the Beauty Industry Leaders Podcast – and over 10,000 downloads! We're celebrating big milestones and even bigger lessons.

In this episode we reflect on a year of showing up, learning, growing, and building a powerful community of beauty business leaders. From upcoming retreats to behind-the-scenes shifts, let's pull back the curtain on what’s really working.

But the heart of today’s conversation? Virtual assistants - and why hiring one might just be the best decision you make for your business (and your sanity).

I'm going to share how bringing on a VA changed everything: more freedom, more focus, and way less stress. If you’re doing all the things and feel like you’re running on fumes, this is your wake-up call.

You’ll walk away with practical tips to get started, including how to:
 ✨ Clearly communicate your needs and expectations
 ✨ Create a brand kit that saves time and keeps things on-brand
 ✨ Build smooth onboarding systems so your VA can hit the ground running
 ✨ Know when it’s time to ask for help - and how to find the right support

Plus, we dive into the Booked, Banked, and In-Demand program - your roadmap to scaling sustainably and hiring with confidence.

This is more than delegation. It’s about protecting your peace, avoiding burnout, and stepping fully into your CEO role.

If you have any questions about the episode, have a burning question you would like me to answer on the show, connect with me and the rest of our incredible community on Instagram:

→ https://www.instagram.com/delusionalwithsammykennedy/
→ https://www.instagram.com/sammykennedyofficial 

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Learning business in paradise while connecting with like-minded women.
Secure your early bird spot for the business retreat in Vietnam 2026.

Today Eli and I reconnect after my month-long trip to Vietnam - where something completely unexpected happened... in the best way.

This wasn’t just a vacation. It was a powerful reminder of what happens when you actually step away from your business and trust the systems you've built. Two years ago, I couldn't have done this. But this time, thanks to strong structures and a shift in mindset, I not only enjoyed deep rest and cultural adventure - I also made big moves for the future.

We’re talking about what it really means to live within your means, invest in yourself, and make space for both peace and progress. Plus, I share the behind-the-scenes of setting up our first ever Beauty Business Retreat in Vietnam, happening 2026 - and why this could be the game-changer for beauty entrepreneurs ready to scale without burnout.

In this episode, we cover:

✨ The difference strong systems make when you take time off
✨ Why Vietnam inspired a whole new level of clarity and vision
✨ How to balance rest with purpose-driven planning
✨ The truth about burnout - and how to avoid it for good
✨ What you can expect from our upcoming retreat (and why it’s different)
✨ Group coaching vs personalized mentorship - and what you need

This is your sign to stop surviving and start scaling - with support that honors your energy, vision, and growth.

You don’t have to do it alone. If you’re a beauty business owner feeling stuck, exhausted, or unsure of your next step, our Vietnam retreat might be exactly what you’ve been looking for.

Let’s build something that fuels you, not drains you.

If you have any questions about the episode, have a burning question you would like me to answer on the show, connect with me and the rest of our incredible community on Instagram:

→ https://www.instagram.com/delusionalwithsammykennedy/
→ https://www.instagram.com/sammykennedyofficial 

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In today’s episode I’m joined by the brilliant business expert Elli, and we’re diving deep into one of the most important conversations for beauty entrepreneurs: understanding the stage your business is in - and what to focus on next.

Whether you’re just starting out or scaling a team, we offer you practical insights to help you make smart decisions at every level of growth. Elli and I explore why gaining hands-on experience before launching your own business can set you up for long-term success, and what foundational pieces you really need to have in place.

If you’ve ever wondered when it’s time to hire, how to delegate effectively, or what it takes to lead with confidence - this one’s for you.

In this episode, we cover:

✨ How to identify what stage your business is really in
✨ Why working for others first can be a powerful stepping stone
✨ The must-haves: business plans, pricing for profit, and brand clarity
✨ What to focus on as you grow - from hiring to onboarding and beyond
✨ Why your leadership style shapes your team culture
✨ How to stay adaptable, financially smart, and aligned as you scale

This is a roadmap for anyone ready to lead their business with intention - not just ambition. Let’s build something sustainable, impactful, and uniquely you.

If you have any questions about the episode, have a burning question you would like me to answer on the show, connect with me and the rest of our incredible community on Instagram:

→ https://www.instagram.com/delusionalwithsammykennedy/
→ https://www.instagram.com/sammykennedyofficial 

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In today’s episode, I’m joined by the wonderful Elli, who’s about to head off on maternity leave - and we’re having a real, honest conversation about what it actually looks like to step away from your business without losing momentum.

We’re talking expectations vs. reality when it comes to leadership, growth, and what success really requires in the beauty industry. From feeling the pressure to “do it all,” to learning how to build systems and teams that support you - this episode is full of behind-the-scenes insights for beauty pros who want to grow smart, not just fast.

You’ll also hear about my upcoming Vietnam trip, how the beta launch of my new training programs went, and why niching down might be the key move your business needs right now.

In this episode, we cover:

✨ The mindset shift that makes taking time off actually possible
✨ Why trying to offer everything can hold your business back
✨ What most people get wrong about success in the beauty industry
✨ The importance of team, systems, and structure behind the scenes
✨ Real talk on maternity leave, slowing down, and staying in your zone

This episode is your permission slip to let go of the hustle myths and start building your business in a way that feels aligned, sustainable, and true to you.

Let’s rewrite what success looks like - together.

If you have any questions about the episode, have a burning question you would like me to answer on the show, connect with me and the rest of our incredible community on Instagram:

→ https://www.instagram.com/delusionalwithsammykennedy/
→ https://www.instagram.com/sammykennedyofficial 

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In today’s episode, Elli and I are pulling back the curtain on what it really takes to grow a profitable, sustainable beauty business - without burning out or losing yourself along the way.

We’re sharing real-world stories (including one client’s epic $100K month), hard-earned lessons from running events and handling difficult clients, and some personal confessions that shaped our own leadership journeys.

From marketing calendars that drive serious revenue to navigating feedback styles and team communication, this episode is full of insights for beauty pros at every stage of business.

In this episode, we cover:

✨ The strategy behind a client’s $100K month - and how you can apply it
✨ Early mistakes we made (and what we’d do differently now)
✨ How to ask your team how they want to receive feedback
✨ A personal look into my teenage years and what fuels my drive today
✨ Plus: a round of “Two Truths and a Lie” to end things on a high!

If you’re ready to lead with more clarity, confidence, and heart—this episode is your reminder that growth isn’t always linear, but it’s always worth it.

If you have any questions about the episode, have a burning question you would like me to answer on the show, connect with me and the rest of our incredible community on Instagram:

→ https://www.instagram.com/delusionalwithsammykennedy/
→ https://www.instagram.com/sammykennedyofficial 

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What does it take to wrap up the financial year with clarity, confidence, and a strategy for real growth?

In this solo episode, I walk you through my own end-of-financial-year (EOFY) game plan – the same one that allows me to manage multiple businesses and take a month-long holiday in Vietnam, all without burning out.

I go over some of the most powerful strategies for EOFY planning, including how to set goals, delegate effectively, and align your business vision with your life goals. This is your ultimate checklist for making the new financial year your most profitable and sustainable yet.

In today's episode:

✨ How to assess your financials with clarity and confidence
✨ Hiring and delegation strategies that free up your time
✨ Mapping out KPI-driven goals for your team
✨ Planning promos and marketing with intention
✨ Why personal alignment is just as crucial as profit

Whether you're a solo operator or leading a large team, this episode is packed with practical advice to help you end the year strong – and start the next one even stronger.

Check out the Break-even calculator here: https://beautyindustryleaders.com.au/breakeven-costs-calculator

If you have any questions about the episode, have a burning question you would like me to answer on the show, connect with me and the rest of our incredible community on Instagram:

→ https://www.instagram.com/delusionalwithsammykennedy/
→ https://www.instagram.com/sammykennedyofficial 

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What does it really take to deliver a consultation that converts and keeps clients coming back for more?

On today's episode Elli and I dive deep into the art (and science) of high-performing consultations.

Elli breaks down her signature five-step consultation method, a game-changer for beauty professionals who want to build deeper trust, offer real solutions, and achieve lasting client results.

From understanding your client’s deeper concerns to creating treatment plans they’re actually excited about, we’re covering the key elements that turn consultations into your most powerful business tool.

In this episode, we cover:

✨ The five-step method for a consultation that actually converts
✨ Why reviewing past treatments is crucial (and often overlooked)
✨ How to perform a results-driven skin analysis with confidence
✨ The power of product education and personalized planning
✨ Communication strategies that build instant trust and rapport
✨ How to manage expectations and deliver next-level aftercare

Whether you're a solo therapist or managing a full team, this episode is packed with actionable tips to help you refine your client consultations and boost retention.

Where To Find Elli:
📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebeautybusiness.society/

🎧  Don’t just listen, engage! Tag me and Elli on Instagram with your top takeaway from this must-hear episode 

If you have any questions about the episode, have a burning question you would like me to answer on the show, connect with me and the rest of our incredible community on Instagram:

→ https://www.instagram.com/delusionalwithsammykennedy/
→ https://www.instagram.com/sammykennedyofficial 

Send us Fan Mail

Ever had that sinking feeling that a new hire just isn’t working out - but you’re not sure what to do next?

In this episode, we are getting real about one of the hardest parts of leadership: navigating probation periods, spotting red flags, and knowing when (and how) to let someone go.

Elli shares a personal update about her journey into motherhood and what that’s taught her about boundaries, leadership, and grace. Sammy opens up about a recent experience with hiring a manager that didn’t go to plan, and what she learned the hard way about culture misalignment and communication.

In this episode, we cover:

✨ How to use probation periods properly - and why they matter more than you think
✨ Real talk on handling difficult team situations with confidence and clarity
✨ Why clear expectations, regular check-ins, and feedback are non-negotiables
✨ What to do when someone just isn’t the right fit, and how to handle exits with empathy
✨ The leadership growth that comes from tough (but necessary) decisions

Whether you're hiring your first team member or managing a growing crew, this episode will help you build a strong, values-driven team from the ground up.

💬 Hit play to learn how to handle those “it’s not working” moments like a true leader, without losing your mind.

If you have any questions about the episode, have a burning question you would like me to answer on the show, connect with me and the rest of our incredible community on Instagram:

→ https://www.instagram.com/delusionalwithsammykennedy/
→ https://www.instagram.com/sammykennedyofficial 

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If you’ve ever felt like you’re throwing content into the void, posting and hoping someone bites, this episode is your wake-up call.

This week, I sit down with Taurie from Lash Lane, a beauty industry powerhouse with over 12 years of experience, who’s now helping other beauty pros level up their branding, content, and strategy.

Taurie shares how she went from dental nurse to salon owner to business coach and the major branding shifts that helped her attract premium clients and build a loyal following.

On this episode you’ll hear:

• Taurie’s journey from burnout to branding genius, and what she wishes she knew sooner
• Why strong messaging and consistent branding are non-negotiable for attracting high-end clients
• The biggest mistakes beauty business owners make when hiring and building a team
• How to take the guesswork out of marketing and create content that actually converts
• What’s next for the beauty industry and how to stay ahead of the curve

If you’re ready to ditch the hustle mindset and build a beauty brand that books clients and builds trust—this episode is for you.

✨ Hit play and get Taurie’s proven insights on branding that turns followers into paying clients.

Connect with Taurie on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taurielaine/ 

If you have any questions about the episode, have a burning question you would like me to answer on the show, connect with me and the rest of our incredible community on Instagram:

→ https://www.instagram.com/delusionalwithsammykennedy/
→ https://www.instagram.com/sammykennedyofficial 

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If you’ve ever poured your heart into marketing content—only to hear crickets—this episode is a must-listen.

This week Elli and I break down what really makes marketing messaging convert. No fluff. Just real talk, real strategies, and real results.

I open up about my own marketing missteps and the exact mindset shifts that helped me turn things around. Together, we dig into the three biggest reasons your content might not be landing: mindset blocks, missing strategy, and messaging that just isn’t hitting home.

On this episode you’ll hear:

• The most common messaging mistakes beauty business owners make (and how to fix them)
• How to identify your actual ideal client—and speak directly to them
• What it means to “speak to pain points” without sounding pushy or salesy
• Real-life examples of posts that got major traction and booked out calendars
• A behind-the-scenes look at my new program, Booked, Banked, and In Demand

If you’re ready to stop guessing and start connecting with content that gets clicks, clients, and conversions—this one’s for you.

✨ Press play and start crafting messaging that works for you, not against you.

Where To Find Elli:
📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebeautybusiness.society/

🎧  Don’t just listen—engage! Tag me and Elli on Instagram with your top takeaway from this must-hear episode 

If you have any questions about the episode, have a burning question you would like me to answer on the show, connect with me and the rest of our incredible community on Instagram:

→ https://www.instagram.com/delusionalwithsammykennedy/
→ https://www.instagram.com/sammykennedyofficial