In this episode of The Modern Hairstylist Podcast, Hunter Donia dives into the potential effects of a Trump presidency on the beauty industry. This candid and analytical discussion explores how policies on tariffs, tax cuts, healthcare, immigration, and deregulation could shape the cost of doing business, consumer behavior, and the overall landscape of the beauty profession. Hunter shares both the challenges and opportunities that may arise, offering thoughtful insights for beauty professionals navigating these uncertain times.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

• Tariffs and Supply Costs: How proposed tariffs on imports could raise the prices of tools, products, and equipment you rely on—and what you can do to prepare.
• Tax Cuts: Why potential tax cuts for upper-middle-class clients might increase disposable income and bring more people back to salons.
• Healthcare Concerns: The possible effects on affordable healthcare for independent beauty professionals and the uncertainty surrounding the Affordable Care Act.
• Immigration and Labor: How immigration crackdowns could disrupt manufacturing and increase costs for beauty products.
• Deregulation: The potential pros and cons of less regulation in the beauty industry, including licensing, competition, and consumer trust.
• Core Values and Client Relationships: How consumer behavior is shifting toward values-based spending and navigating moral conflicts with clients whose beliefs clash with your own.

Special Segments:

• Listener Question: Hunter answers a listener’s DM about how to handle clients with opposing political beliefs in a way that respects personal values while maintaining professionalism.
• Gender-Affirming Care: Hunter highlights the role hairstylists play in providing affirming spaces and services for LGBTQ+ individuals and shares a free inclusivity course for beauty professionals.

Key Takeaways:

• Stay informed and prepared: Monitor changes in policies and consumer behavior that may impact your business.
• Focus on your values: Use this time as an opportunity to align your business with your core beliefs and attract like-minded clients.
• Don’t panic: Keep pushing forward, stay consistent, and make strategic decisions that position your business for long-term success.

Resources and Links:

• Free LGBTQ+ Inclusivity Course for Salons: hunterdonia.com/pride
• Follow Hunter on Instagram: @hairbyhunty

Let’s Connect:
Got thoughts or questions about this episode? Send Hunter a DM on Instagram! Let’s keep the conversation going.

Closing Encouragement:
No matter how the political and economic landscape shifts, remember that you have the power to create meaningful change in your business and community. You’ve faced challenges before, and you’ll overcome this too. Keep showing up, stay informed, and trust that brighter days are ahead.

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