On this episode of the gohappybeauty podcast, host Grant Kantsios welcomes Alex Hively, founder of the Hive Body Spa and Wellness in St. Louis. Alex takes us on a candid journey from her early days as a Chick-fil-A cashier and teenage tanning salon enthusiast, all the way to building one of St. Louis’s go-to destinations for luxury spray tans and body sculpting. Through plenty of honest reflection, Alex shares how her passion for the beauty industry—and a push from her boyfriend—helped her take the leap into entrepreneurship, even when she wasn’t sure what would come next.

You’ll hear how Alex used social media, aesthetic branding, and exceptional client experiences to stand out in a crowded market, transforming her business from solo side-hustle to a thriving brand with a dedicated team. Discover how she navigates the challenges of leadership, the lessons she’s carried from her first jobs, and why she believes in learning as you go and believing in yourself even when anxiety and sleepless nights hit.

Whether you’re an aspiring business owner, a sunless artist looking to grow, or simply a fan of inspiring journeys, this episode is packed with actionable advice and hard-won wisdom. So sit back, get ready to be inspired, and enjoy the story of how Alex brought her vision for the Hive to life!