What happens when you press play on your very first podcast episode two years later?

In this special episode, Samara and Jen go back to where it all began. Episode 1 of Salon Rising: The Podcast. What started as two best friends sharing insights about business, life, and salon ownership has since grown into a platform of connection, community, and real conversations.

Listening back, some things made us cringe, but what stood out most was how much has changed, in business, in life, and in who we are today.

We revisit the lessons, the laughs, and the raw truths of that first conversation, and share how our purpose has evolved, what’s stayed the same, and why this podcast still lights us up.

💡 In this episode, you’ll hear:

• The biggest shifts in our lives and businesses since Episode 1
• How our philosophies on business and life have evolved
• The power of speaking from scars, not wounds
• Why community, connection, and storytelling are still at the heart of Salon Rising
• What we’ve learned about impact, growth, and building a life (not just a business)

This isn’t just a reintroduction, it’s proof that growth is constant, change is inevitable, and your story will always keep unfolding.

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction: The Purpose of Salon Rising

01:46 Reflecting on the First Episode

02:01 Reintroducing Ourselves

02:16 Jen's Journey and Identity

04:16 Sam's Journey and Identity

06:40 The Evolution of Our Podcast

10:05 Navigating Personal and Professional Challenges

13:15 The Impact of Sharing Stories

20:28 The Purpose Behind the Podcast

21:24 Reflecting on Personal Growth

22:03 Unexpected Podcast Journey

23:25 Transformative Conversations

24:52 Purpose and Impact

26:47 Creating a Supportive Community

30:28 Balancing Business and Life

33:30 Gratitude and Perspective

38:32 Invitation to Share Stories

39:17 Conclusion and Gratitude

Mentioned in this episode:

Timely

💖 Celebrating Our Podcast Partner – Christophe Robin, proudly distributed by McM Imports

We’ve partnered with Christophe Robin and MCM Imports to bring you something beautiful:

➡ Experience the Christophe Robin Discovery Box — curated by pro ambassador Monique McMahon.

➡ Inside, you’ll find her handpicked favourites — the hero products she swears by in the salon.

It’s your invitation to explore the range and discover why Christophe Robin has become a quiet obsession among stylists who know their craft.

Click the link below to request your FREE Christophe Robin Discovery Box, exclusively through McM Imports. 👇

MCM

💛 A HUGE Thank You to Our Podcast Sponsors - Timely

We’ve partnered with Timely to bring you something special:

➡ Enjoy a 14 day free trial to see how Timely can transform your salon.

➡ New customers get 50% off their first 3 months.

If you've been thinking about levelling up your salon systems, this is your moment. Timely is designed specifically for salons. Helping you manage bookings, clients, staff, and more with ease.

Use the code SALONRISING at checkout or click the link below to to claim the offer. 👇

Timely