Cutting Through The Noise

Episode Nine. S3: Scaling Success: Sheridan Rose Shaw on Growing Mama West Salon to 20 Chairs


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In this episode, Sheridan Rose Shaw from Mama West Salon joins us to share how she scaled her salon to a 20-chair powerhouse while many others in the industry are downsizing. She reveals the key strategies behind her success, the pivotal decisions she made, and the mentors who guided her along the way.

Key Discussion Points:

  • Scaling the Salon: Sheridan breaks down how she successfully expanded Mama West Salon by focusing on growth, strategic hiring, and strong operational systems.
  • Facing Industry Trends: With many salons closing or reducing their size, she shares how she leveraged market demand and community ties to expand rather than contract.
  • Key Decisions for Success: From branding to salon culture, she discusses the crucial choices that fuelled her business’s growth.
  • Mentorship & Coaching: Sheridan highlights the role of mentors in her journey and the mindset shifts that were game-changers for her.
  • Building a Strong Team: The importance of training and development to maintain a motivated and high-performing team.
  • Adapting to Client Needs: Staying ahead of trends while keeping customer satisfaction at the core.
  • Overcoming Challenges: She opens up about financial hurdles, managing a large team, and maintaining work-life balance.
  • Future Plans for Mama West Salon: What’s next for Sheridan and her vision for the future.

Key Takeaways:

  • Strategic Growth: Scaling requires intentional planning, investment in systems, and a strong leadership approach.
  • Mentorship is Essential: Having experienced mentors can make all the difference when navigating tough business decisions.
  • Innovation & Client Focus: Staying adaptable and in tune with client needs is critical to staying competitive.
  • Building a Strong Team: A positive culture and hiring the right people drive long-term success.

Sheridan’s journey proves that with the right mindset, strategy, and mentorship, it is possible to thrive—even in challenging times.

About Sheridan Rose Shaw: Sheridan Rose Shaw is a powerhouse in the hairdressing industry and the sole Creative Director of Mama West Salon. Celebrating 12 years of sobriety, she has channelled her energy into transforming Melbourne’s inner-west hair scene for the past 17 years. Her name is synonymous with creativity, community, and excellence, earning her numerous accolades, including:

  • AHFA FAME TEAM Artistic Team of the Year
  • AHIA Victorian Salon of the Year 2023
  • Newcomer Salon of the Year
  • Most Innovative Business of the Year
  • Contribution to Business Award
  • Finalist: AHFA Victorian Hairdresser, AHIA New Creative Talent, HOT SHOTS
  • Australian FAME TEAM 2023

A true all-rounder in hairdressing, Sheridan’s passion for creative cutting and bold colour is next level. As a salon owner, she is fiercely dedicated to mentoring the next generation of hairdressers and shaping a more inclusive future in the industry. Her motto? Life’s too short for bad hair. Under her leadership, Mama West is not just a salon—it is a movement.

Instagram:

@sheridanroseshaw_mamawest

@mamawest_

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