We explore Norman’s decision to leave a well-known salon atmosphere and strike out on his own, a new journey of exciting opportunities and formidable challenges that lie ahead

Norman discusses his recent transition into freelancing, detailing the mixture of excitement and anxiety that accompanied it. This includes a steep learning curve of managing everything from client relations to finance, as well as the omnipresent pressures of social media.

This episode provides a more in-depth look at Norman’s early story and the pivotal career moments that shaped his fledgling career. Norman shares his goals and excitement for the future, his education business, touring the US and emphasising the significance of maintaining balance to avoid burnout.

Join us for a conversation with Norman Boulton, who will share his invaluable advice and heartening inspiration for those contemplating or embarking on a similar path.

To see the full shownotes and links mentioned in this episode, visit howtocutit.com/ep352 on our new website.

In this episode, we’re addressing some of the biggest misconceptions about hairdressing as a career. Nicola and Marie share their insights on why our profession is so much more than just cutting, styling and colouring hair—it’s about transforming lives. They emphasise the immense satisfaction that comes from making a difference in someone’s day, hour by hour, cut by cut. A career in hair is all about the emotional and human connections that simply cannot be replaced by technology.

We’ll also explore the incredible potential this industry holds for those dedicated to perfecting their craft. Nicola and Marie are confident that with the right mindset and continuous learning, anyone can thrive in this dynamic field.

As the episode wraps up, Nicola and Marie deliver some fantastic advice for aspiring hairdressers and barbers. They highlight the importance of embracing lifelong learning and honing those all-important communication skills. In our industry, personal connections and a passion for growth are key!

Salon owners, managers, training providers, and colleges, this episode is packed with practical tips and inspiration just for you. Discover how VTCT Skills is shaping the future of hairdressing education and ensuring the next generations can navigate their career pathways effectively. Whether you’re nurturing new talent or advancing your own career, there’s something here for everyone.

So, hit that play button and join us in celebrating an industry that’s evolving, adapting, and bursting with opportunities. Don’t forget to share your thoughts on social media, tag @howtocutit and keep the conversation going. Let’s make the future of hairdressing and barbering even brighter together!To see the full shownotes and links mentioned in this episode, visit howtocutit.com/ep351 on our new website.

In this week’s episode, we’re talking about the must-know hair colour trends to wow your clients with in 2025. In particular, we’ll be focusing on the Wella Colour Touch Melt trend—a technique that will make your clients’ hair shimmer with a seamless and lustrous look.

Brought to you by our friends at Wella Professionals UK and Ireland, I’m thrilled to be joined today by Melanie Smith, a leading celebrity hair colourist at Hari’s Hair and Beauty Salon in London. With over three decades in the hair industry, Melanie has been named twice in Tatler Hair Guide as ‘One to Watch’ and specialises in creating natural yet enhanced hair colour.

In our conversation, we’ll discuss the importance of hair colour trends and why you need to keep yourself updated with them. Melanie takes us behind the scenes of Wella Professionals’ Colour Touch Melt trend, offering insights on how you can integrate these into your hairdressing business to create buzz and excitement for clients. We’ll also ask Melanie for her thoughts on how to price colour services correctly

And what about the innovative Wella products and techniques you need to know when using the Colour Touch Melt trend for your clients? Melanie has you covered on all of this. Plus, Melanie shares some other colour trends that are sure to be a hit with your customers—including her Mocha Coffee look created for a recent Wella Professionals shoot.

So, what’s all the hype about Colour Touch Melt and hair colour trends in general? Hit play to find out!

To see the full shownotes and links mentioned in this episode, visit howtocutit.com/ep350 on our new website.

In this jam-packed episode brought to you in partnership with our friends at Wella Professionals UK & Ireland., we’re thrilled to have David Campbell on the show—a titan in the world of Irish hairdressing. As Director of House of Colour and Salon Edge, as well as author of Headstart, David is a true Irish hair legend!

David is an expert at helping salons not only survive, but thrive in today’s ever-evolving industry. And you will get a front row seat to all that he shares with us.

From setting crystal-clear goals, mastering the art of recruitment, to creating a work environment that’s a talent magnet – we’re covering it all! Imagine having a guide to lead your business into a future where education drives growth, strategy enhances team motivation, and where creating unforgettable client experiences is the norm, not the exception. Well, imagine no more; it’s all right here in this episode!

Plus we’re exploring the diverse career paths within the hairdressing industry, the importance of targeted education, and the impact of leadership on team dynamics.

So if you’re wanting tips on how to grow your salon business, hit play, and let’s kickstart this year with a bang! And remember, this is more than just a podcast; it’s a call to action for every salon owner, aspiring and established hairdresser out there. Let’s make 2025 the year we all rise together.

To see the full shownotes and links mentioned in this episode, visit howtocutit.com/ep349 on our new website.

Lucan and his sister have expanded HARI’s from three to five thriving salons across London in Chelsea, Notting Hill and Battersea. He stresses with us the importance of rigorous training and development, creating a culture of continuous learning and excellence. You’ll take from this episode how HARIS’s commitment to excellence has made it a premium brand—enabling its staff to excel and grow.

And what about Lucan?  We cover that too as we learn how Initially, Lucan pursued a career in chemistry and business management to distinguish himself from his family’s trade. However, his father’s influence led him to enter the salon business—a decision that would shape Lucan’s life and the future direction of HARI’s.

We also learn how having a strong partnership with Wella Professionals has played a crucial role in aligning HARI’s values, enhancing team education, and fostering a sense of community. Two brands aligned rich in heritage—and both dedicated to helping people look their best!

Stay tuned to also hear about Lucan’s recent meditation retreat. He tells us why he believes that mindfulness and balance are essential for personal and professional growth.

This episode provides valuable insights for hairdressers and salon owners on leadership, the importance of culture, and community engagement within the salon industry. Join us to learn how Lucan steers HARI’s salons forward with a vision rooted in family values and innovation.

Join me as I sit down with Grid Studios’ co-founder Danny Mendoza and his talented team members, Aoife and Annie, to uncover the inspiration behind this game-changing studio and explore how it’s revolutionising the way hair professionals create and share their work.

You’ll learn about the unique features that set Grid Studios apart from traditional studios. From custom lighting setups that ensure consistent colour temperature, to versatile spaces perfect for mini set builds and live events, Grid Studios is meticulously designed to overcome common challenges such as inadequate lighting and unsuitable backdrops.

We also highlight the versatility and community-building aspect of Grid Studios. And the Grid team share what makes the studio a hub for content-driven projects, including styling stations, diverse backdrops, and even a cozy coffee bar designed to enhance the overall experience. Annie, the social media manager, shares the vibrant energy that comes from collaborating with various professionals and the excellent feedback from first-time users.

Danny also breaks down the flexible membership options that make Grid Studios accessible to creators with different budgets. Whether you’re looking to book a one-off session or become a regular member, Grid Studios is committed to supporting hairdressers and other creatives in elevating their content without the prohibitive costs typically associated with studio rentals.

Don’t miss this exciting conversation that offers a glimpse into how Grid Studios is fostering a creative community and paving the way for the future of content creation in the hair and beauty industry. It could be your next go-to destination for capturing beautiful content and advancing your creative journey!

In this episode I have the pleasure of exploring Guy’s journey from Cape Town to London’s vibrant hair scene. As the artistic director at Cobella Salon and an educator with Hair In Motion, Guy’s story is a testament to stepping out of your comfort zone for career growth.

We first learn how Guy first felt the urge to move to London after being inspired by the city’s rich hairdressing history. Leaving a strong foundation in Cape Town, he embraced the chance to learn from industry leaders in London. Upon arrival, Guy hit the ground running, forming invaluable connections with Jordanna Cobella at Cobella Salon.

We discuss the transformative impact of these relationships and how networking can reignite passion and drive creative breakthroughs. Guy shared milestone moments, from winning competitions like the Wella Destination event.

We also delved into current trends and Guy’s signature style—lived-in textures and organic looks. I highly recommend you check out his work on his Instagram under the handle @GuyDoesHair.

Tune in to hear Guy’s inspiring journey and his vision for the future of hairdressing. This episode is a must-listen for any hairdresser looking to make waves in the industry. Join us as Guy Kleinhaus shares wisdom and experiences that will ignite your passion and inspire your own journey in hairdressing.

For the past 12 years, Ashley and Stephanie have been the owners of Ashley & Gamble, an award-winning salon in Shifnal, Shropshire UK. They have worked together for over 20 years, and their name is well respected in UK hairdressing. They have won many awards—including the UK Colour Salon of the Year and UK Salon Hairdresser of the Year awards—and are also British and multiple international award winners.

Ashley and Stephanie’s journey as a married entrepreneurial team offers a unique perspective on balancing work and personal life to ensure long-term success. In our conversations, Ashley is to provide valuable advice to all you salon owners looking for new motivations, and for new stylists entering the industry, emphasising the benefits of specialising in a skill set that can lead to greater success.

This podcast covers a wide range of topics, from the importance of investing in your salon and choosing the right location for your business to discussing effective pay structures that reflect performance and contribution.

So get ready to hear Ashley’s firsthand experiences and actionable tips—this episode is filled with indispensable advice.

Trevor Sorbie MBE, who was born in Paisley, Scotland in 1949 and rose to become one of the most influential hairdressers of all time. With unparalleled creativity and kindness, Trevor left an indelible mark on our industry. From creating iconic styles like the wedge cut to establishing the charitable foundation, My New Hair, his work transformed hairdressing into both an art and a form of heartfelt care.

In this episode, we’re revisiting an incredible conversation recorded back in August 2017—Trevor’s first-ever podcast interview. Trevor shared with me his humble beginnings and his unwavering passion for the craft, which remained with him throughout his remarkable journey.

Trevor was much more than a stylist; he was a visionary whose artistry continues to inspire us. He taught us to “be bold, be different, but always do everything in good taste.” Today, we celebrate his remarkable contributions and honor his legacy. Thank you, Trevor, for everything.

Trevor Sorbie MBE, 1949 – 2024.

Enjoy this special episode.

I first met Craig at an event I hosted in 2016. He was taking to the stage for the first time ever, presenting a look he had created. That’s nothing special, you might say. But what made it memorable for me was that Craig had a stammer, and by presenting on stage he was facing his fear in front of an audience. I was full of admiration for him when I saw what he had accomplished on stage that night, and I wanted to catch up with Craig since that event. How’s his career shaping whilst dealing with a stammer?

In our conversation today Craig opens up about his personal experiences dealing with a stammer, from early hurdles in professional and social settings to the transformative moments that shaped his path. We’ll take a closer look at Craig’s unique strategies for managing his stammer, like the time he confronted his reflection in a shop full of mirrors, turning a challenging situation into a moment of self-growth.

You’ll get to discover the techniques he’s developed to thrive under pressure and the confidence he’s built to communicate effectively in this vibrant industry. Craig also candidly discusses the apprehension many feel about phone conversations and how he overcame this particular challenge.

Beyond the stammer, Craig sheds light on his early foray into business, sharing insights on tackling the feeling of never having enough hours in the day and the treasure trove of lessons learned from working independently.

This episode is not only about resilience and determination but also about embracing transparency and self-acceptance. Craig’s experiences serve as a beacon of hope for any of you facing personal challenges—urging you to be open, persevere through discomfort, and stay true to your passions. Tune in for an episode that’s sure to inspire and illustrate how obstacles can indeed become opportunities.