In this highlight, Samara and Jen explore the important distinction between scaling and growing a salon business. They share insights from an inspiring business leader who explains how scaling involves expanding your team and stepping away from the floor, while growing focuses on increasing efficiency by adding support without necessarily increasing the size of the team.

They discuss practical tips for salon owners, such as hiring the right staff to support growth, like a receptionist, salon assistant, or social media manager. They also talk about the importance of understanding the roles you delegate, making sure you know how things work before outsourcing tasks like bookkeeping.

The conversation emphasizes that success doesn’t always mean scaling up with a large team—it’s about finding the balance that works for your goals. Samara and Jen provide valuable advice on managing growth and deciding if scaling or growing is right for your business.

Inspired? Listen to the full episode here:

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/ep-14-scaling-vs-growing-your-business-whats-your-game-plan/id1675792257?i=1000626650151

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/6NOHRQrDHpr1LriG3M2w6b?si=sgKlAp__RYSA_4pbjkGpMA

YouTube: https://youtu.be/uEYYSB0W5bk?feature=shared

To find out more about Salon Rising:

https://www.salonrising.com/

https://www.instagram.com/salonrising_/

Mentioned in this episode:

💛 A HUGE Thank You to Our Podcast Sponsors - Timely

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

➡ 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 to claim the offer. Click the link below to join 👇

Timely

Take Control of Your Salon Finances with Rising Finances Online

Running a salon with a team is exciting, but the money side can feel overwhelming. Tax, wages, cash flow, and pricing often leave owners stressed and second guessing.

That’s why we created Rising Finances Online, the step by step program that takes the guesswork out of salon finances.

Inside RFO, you’ll discover how to find your bottom dollar, price with confidence, stay on top of tax, and build lasting profit into your business. Practical, simple, and made for the real world of salon ownership.

Click below to Join Today 👇

Rising Finances Online

We're back in the Inner Sanctum with Casey, the owner of Maverick Hair and Art on the Gold Coast. Casey shares her journey of taking over the business she had worked in and changing from stylist to owner. 

In 2021, the COVID-19 pandemic brought challenges for the new business owner. Maverick is located on the Queensland and New South Wales border which meant many of Casey's staff and clients were stuck on either side. We discussed her collaboration with a salon across the border to sustain their businesses. 

Casey talks about delegation's importance, team dynamics, and flexible management style. The episode also delves into the logistics and challenges of hiring, training staff, and running a unique salon that incorporates art. 

Additionally, Casey shares her personal journey undergoing IVF treatments while maintaining open communication with her team. We wrap things up with insights into managing stress, embracing change, and the importance of community over competition.

Timestamps:

00:00 Episode Summary

02:45 Introducing Casey

04:08 COVID-19 and Border Shutdowns

07:36 Collaborating with Other Salons

09:30 Transitioning from Stylist to Owner

11:45 Staff Dynamics and Business Model

19:53 Balancing Work and Personal Life

27:55 Returning from Holiday: Addressing Team Issues

28:28 The Importance of a Manager in a Salon

29:01 Handling Customer Complaints and Reviews

30:16 Delegating Tasks to the Team

34:16 Financial Structures and Employment Models

36:27 Advice for New Salon Owners

38:59 The Rollercoaster of Business Ownership

45:59 Starting a Podcast: Real Talk with Paige and Casey

49:22 The Journey of IVF and Business Balance

56:13 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Mentioned in this episode:

Take Control of Your Salon Finances with Rising Finances Online

Running a salon with a team is exciting, but the money side can feel overwhelming. Tax, wages, cash flow, and pricing often leave owners stressed and second guessing.

That’s why we created Rising Finances Online, the step by step program that takes the guesswork out of salon finances.

Inside RFO, you’ll discover how to find your bottom dollar, price with confidence, stay on top of tax, and build lasting profit into your business. Practical, simple, and made for the real world of salon ownership.

Click below to Join Today 👇

Rising Finances Online

💛 A HUGE Thank You to Our Podcast Sponsors - Timely

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

➡ 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 to claim the offer. Click the link below to join 👇

Timely

In this episode of the Inner Sanctum, we talked about the T word! That's right, lovers. It was Tax and Relationships with your accountant and chat with Paris from Group One Accounting. You will often hear the team singing the praises of Paris. Not only is she an exceptional human, she's also an incredible Accountant! This chat covered Paris's journey into accounting. Some background into Samara and Paris' journey together. Then, we went deep into tax and all its variations. If you don't know your GST from your BAS or PAYG, this is the episode for you. We talk about sole traders transitioning to company status and the importance of financial discipline. And, of course, why is having a great relationship with your accountant so important? 

00:00 Episode Summary

02:56 Introducing Our Special Guest: Paris from Group 1 Accounting

03:22 The Journey with Paris: Transforming Business Finances

04:13 Navigating Financial Challenges and Trusting the Process

05:48 The Importance of a Good Relationship with Your Accountant

08:53 Personal Stories and Emotional Support

15:29 Protecting Your Business and Personal Finances

20:14 Simplifying Tax Concepts for Business Owners

29:56 Understanding Superannuation

30:34 Breaking Down BAS Payments

32:49 Navigating PAYG Instalments

34:49 The Importance of Accurate Financial Planning

40:13 Director's Loans Explained

43:34 Transitioning from Sole Trader to Company

48:45 Effective Budgeting and Cash Flow Management

58:11 Final Thoughts and Advice

Mentioned in this episode:

💛 A HUGE Thank You to Our Podcast Sponsors - Timely

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

➡ 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 to claim the offer. Click the link below to join 👇

Timely

Take Control of Your Salon Finances with Rising Finances Online

Running a salon with a team is exciting, but the money side can feel overwhelming. Tax, wages, cash flow, and pricing often leave owners stressed and second guessing.

That’s why we created Rising Finances Online, the step by step program that takes the guesswork out of salon finances.

Inside RFO, you’ll discover how to find your bottom dollar, price with confidence, stay on top of tax, and build lasting profit into your business. Practical, simple, and made for the real world of salon ownership.

Click below to Join Today 👇

Rising Finances Online

In this episode of Inner Sanctum we're joined by the beautiful Jess, the creator of Honey and Muse in Sydney. Jess, took us through her journey in the industry and her decision to go from Salon to Solo. From taking over an established salon at age 21 to rebranding it into Honey and Muse.

Jess has been bold and strategic with the changes she's made and her passion and love for her craft is clear. She's faced significant obstacles head on. Including a major price adjustment, overcoming retail aversion, the impacts of COVID-19. As well as recovering from neck surgery!

She's taken it all in her stride and is thriving. We highlight the importance of appropriate pricing, retail strategies, mentorship. As well as the role of social media in client attraction. You're going to love this episode.

00:00 Episode Summary

02:19 Introducing Jess from Honey and Muse

04:45 Jess's Journey: From Salon Purchase to Rebranding

11:21 Navigating COVID-19 Challenges and Downsizing

17:20 The Impact of Rebranding and Relocation

30:29 Adjusting Pricing and Services Post-COVID

39:24 Navigating Pricing and Client Expectations

40:34 Understanding Financial Goals and Pricing Strategies

42:52 The Importance of Retail in Salon Business

45:00 Building Client Trust and Loyalty

54:01 Social Media Strategies for Salon Owners

58:00 Overcoming Business Challenges and Personal Growth

01:09:22 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Mentioned in this episode:

Take Control of Your Salon Finances with Rising Finances Online

Running a salon with a team is exciting, but the money side can feel overwhelming. Tax, wages, cash flow, and pricing often leave owners stressed and second guessing.

That’s why we created Rising Finances Online, the step by step program that takes the guesswork out of salon finances.

Inside RFO, you’ll discover how to find your bottom dollar, price with confidence, stay on top of tax, and build lasting profit into your business. Practical, simple, and made for the real world of salon ownership.

Click below to Join Today 👇

Rising Finances Online

💛 A HUGE Thank You to Our Podcast Sponsors - Timely

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

➡ 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 to claim the offer. Click the link below to join 👇

Timely

In this highlight, Samara and Jen talk about how managing salon staff has changed over time. They explore how old, toxic work environments, where staff felt bad for taking sick days, are being replaced with more supportive and understanding workplaces. The hosts share their own stories about how they create a salon culture where employees feel safe taking time off when needed and comfortable sharing personal struggles. They explain why it’s so important to show care and understanding for your team.

Samara and Jen talk about how a positive workplace can boost morale, making staff feel valued and more loyal. This support helps employees perform better and stay longer at their jobs. They also stress the importance of moving away from old-school management practices that were often harsh and uncaring. Instead, they suggest building a team-oriented culture, where everyone feels like they matter, from apprentices to senior staff.

Samara and Jen also dive into how to manage apprentices by encouraging support rather than competition. They explain why treating all staff with respect and care creates a healthier, more productive salon environment. 

Whether you’re a salon owner or manager, these tips will help you create a workplace where your staff can thrive, feel appreciated, and stay loyal.

00:00 Introduction to Staff Dynamics
00:52 The Culture of Sick Days
03:49 Changing Perspectives on Employee Well-being
06:19 Supporting Staff Through Personal Challenges
08:21 The Evolution of Apprenticeships
10:33 Fostering a Positive Team Culture

Inspired? Listen to the full episode here:

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/how-the-industry-has-changed/id1675792257?i=1000607029059

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/75kVPXCaGaaMXbAubP2P7o?si=aa45cKdsS3qFTglkKudHtA

YouTube: https://youtu.be/R1Qc7Rkr008?feature=shared

To find out more about Salon Rising:

https://www.salonrising.com/

https://www.instagram.com/salonrising_/

Mentioned in this episode:

Take Control of Your Salon Finances with Rising Finances Online

Running a salon with a team is exciting, but the money side can feel overwhelming. Tax, wages, cash flow, and pricing often leave owners stressed and second guessing.

That’s why we created Rising Finances Online, the step by step program that takes the guesswork out of salon finances.

Inside RFO, you’ll discover how to find your bottom dollar, price with confidence, stay on top of tax, and build lasting profit into your business. Practical, simple, and made for the real world of salon ownership.

Click below to Join Today 👇

Rising Finances Online

💛 A HUGE Thank You to Our Podcast Sponsors - Timely

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

➡ 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 to claim the offer. Click the link below to join 👇

Timely

For this episode in the inner sanctum we're joined by Sarah, the owner of The Luxe Beauty Co. Sarah was raw and real on the challenges and growth that come with owning a beauty salon. She shared her personal journey, including managing two salon locations. And spoke into balancing family life, and navigating leadership as a woman. We delve into topics like resilience, the importance of vulnerability. As well as investing in yourself, and being authentic in leadership. And the importance of personal development and building a supportive team. 

This is truly an episode for EVERYONE. We know you'll love Sarah as much as we do. Enjoy!  

00:00 Introduction and Struggles of Salon Ownership

00:24 The Importance of Vulnerability and Leadership

01:27 Podcast Promotion and Sponsor Acknowledgment

02:16 Meet Sarah: Owner of Luxe Beauty Co.

03:36 Balancing Business and Personal Life

07:36 Empowering Women Through Image Consultancy

11:22 Navigating Leadership and Personal Development

26:43 The Masculine and Feminine Dynamics in Leadership

32:59 Balancing Expectations and Self-Work

33:14 Facing Humbling Experiences

34:14 The Importance of Reassurance

34:30 Growth and Leadership Challenges

35:36 Navigating Team Dynamics

39:25 Dealing with Imposter Syndrome

39:55 Reflecting on Leadership and Loyalty

42:09 The Joy of Continued Connections

43:36 Inspiring the Next Generation

50:54 The Journey of Business Expansion

55:28 Legacy and Family Business

59:29 Investing in Yourself

01:01:12 Closing Thoughts and Gratitude

Mentioned in this episode:

Take Control of Your Salon Finances with Rising Finances Online

Running a salon with a team is exciting, but the money side can feel overwhelming. Tax, wages, cash flow, and pricing often leave owners stressed and second guessing.

That’s why we created Rising Finances Online, the step by step program that takes the guesswork out of salon finances.

Inside RFO, you’ll discover how to find your bottom dollar, price with confidence, stay on top of tax, and build lasting profit into your business. Practical, simple, and made for the real world of salon ownership.

Click below to Join Today 👇

Rising Finances Online

💛 A HUGE Thank You to Our Podcast Sponsors - Timely

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

➡ 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 to claim the offer. Click the link below to join 👇

Timely

In this highlight, Samara and Jen talk with guest Ashleigh Bailey. They discuss how salon owners can use social media in better ways. Posting only client photos or random content isn’t effective anymore. They suggest sharing posts with behind-the-scenes moments, product features, and the salon space. 

They share personal stories. Give tips on staying motivated and avoiding social media burnout. Emphasising it’s important to keep posting regularly but with purpose. They also talk about dealing with emotions like jealousy and comparison. Creating a positive space online is key for personal growth. 

Listen in to learn how to connect better with your followers. And to make your social media more engaging and authentic.

00:00 Finding Your Niche in Content Creation

00:05 The Pitfalls of Relying on Clients for Content

00:20 The Importance of Authenticity Over Aesthetics

01:13 Balancing Content Types for Engagement

03:09 Staying Motivated and Inspired in Social Media

03:24 The Role of Social Media in Business Success

04:10 Creating Content Efficiently

05:16 Overcoming the Fear of Showing Up Online

06:34 Managing Social Media Triggers and Comparisons

08:45 Dealing with Staff Changes and Social Media

09:57 Navigating Social Media Connections

Inspired? Listen to the full episode here:

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/social-rising-with-ashleigh-bailey/id1675792257?i=1000634594362

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/17AwXDm4c0rkLZn6ZBN79H?si=uhrPlPn8QMSUJX2_FPXCbg

To find out more about Salon Rising:

https://www.salonrising.com/

https://www.instagram.com/salonrising_/

Mentioned in this episode:

Take Control of Your Salon Finances with Rising Finances Online

Running a salon with a team is exciting, but the money side can feel overwhelming. Tax, wages, cash flow, and pricing often leave owners stressed and second guessing.

That’s why we created Rising Finances Online, the step by step program that takes the guesswork out of salon finances.

Inside RFO, you’ll discover how to find your bottom dollar, price with confidence, stay on top of tax, and build lasting profit into your business. Practical, simple, and made for the real world of salon ownership.

Click below to Join Today 👇

Rising Finances Online

💛 A HUGE Thank You to Our Podcast Sponsors - Timely

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

➡ 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 to claim the offer. Click the link below to join 👇

Timely

This was a travelling episode of the inner sanctum, recorded on a trip to Sydney. We got to catch up with industry legend, Monique McMahon! Monique is the owner of Que Colour and MCM Beauty, and in this episode we got deep! 

Monique shared her journey from working in a high-end salon to founding her own salon. All while balancing motherhood. She openly spoke into the challenges and successes of running and expanding a salon. As well as her passion for education and her innovative colour techniques.

We also explored the story behind MCM Beauty, Monique's wholesale import distribution company. Which started with the luxury brand Christophe Robin and has expanded with aligned brands. MCM showcases her commitment to combining clean beauty with luxury. 

There's talk about integrating passion and business. Family involvement, and work-life balance. As well as salon culture and cultivating a brand.

Tune in to learn more about Monique’s drive to set new trends, maintain high standards, and her future aspirations for the industry.

00:00 Episode Summary

02:51 Introducing Monique McMahon

04:36 Balancing Motherhood and Career

06:55 The Birth of Q: The Story Behind the Name

08:12 The Christophe Robin Connection

09:27 Growing Pains: From Small Space to Larger Salon

18:38 The Dual Business Model Experiment

19:46 The Importance of Branding and Consistency

20:56 The Cost of Running a Luxury Salon

25:38 The Evolution of Q: Policies and Procedures

34:57 Embracing Social Media and Education

40:11 Creating an Education Module for Apprentices

42:31 The Importance of Culture in a Salon

44:11 Challenges of Moving Off the Floor

47:26 Dealing with Client and Team Dynamics

50:57 The Role of Passion in Business

53:34 Expanding Through Education Events

01:00:44 The Birth and Growth of MCM Beauty

01:11:17 Balancing Work and Family Life

01:16:08 Final Thoughts and Future Plans

And a huge thank you to our podcast sponsors:

https://ozdare.com/

https://kevinmurphy.com.au/au/en/km/

Mentioned in this episode:

💛 A HUGE Thank You to Our Podcast Sponsors - Timely

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

➡ 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 to claim the offer. Click the link below to join 👇

Timely

Take Control of Your Salon Finances with Rising Finances Online

Running a salon with a team is exciting, but the money side can feel overwhelming. Tax, wages, cash flow, and pricing often leave owners stressed and second guessing.

That’s why we created Rising Finances Online, the step by step program that takes the guesswork out of salon finances.

Inside RFO, you’ll discover how to find your bottom dollar, price with confidence, stay on top of tax, and build lasting profit into your business. Practical, simple, and made for the real world of salon ownership.

Click below to Join Today 👇

Rising Finances Online

In this highlight, Samara & Jen are joined by Barefaced and Naked's, Shay & Helina! They discuss the surprising advantages of downsizing a salon business. They explore the emotional and practical aspects of transitioning from a large salon space to renting a room. Highlighting how this change has led to greater financial freedom. Reduced stress, and a renewed passion for their work. 

The episode delves into the challenges of overcoming ego and societal expectations. Emphasising that success isn’t defined by the size of your salon but by the quality of your life and work. 

Tune in for insights on making empowered decisions. Ones that align with your personal and professional goals.

00:00 Reflecting on Past Conversations

00:40 The Decision to Sell the Salon

01:25 Understanding the Value of a Salon Setup

03:51 Embracing Downsizing and Room Renting

05:19 Redefining Success in the Salon Industry

07:36 Personal Growth and Future Plans


Inspired? Listen to the full episode here:

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/evolving-in-business-with-shay-helina-from-the/id1675792257?i=1000629856199

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/6IRBuNkOdGuePeFtYvolnW?si=5C2PBTQxRZaTqIcQRWR_6A

YouTube: https://youtu.be/A-v1p2eje2g?feature=shared


To find out more about Salon Rising:

https://www.salonrising.com/

https://www.instagram.com/salonrising_/

Mentioned in this episode:

Take Control of Your Salon Finances with Rising Finances Online

Running a salon with a team is exciting, but the money side can feel overwhelming. Tax, wages, cash flow, and pricing often leave owners stressed and second guessing.

That’s why we created Rising Finances Online, the step by step program that takes the guesswork out of salon finances.

Inside RFO, you’ll discover how to find your bottom dollar, price with confidence, stay on top of tax, and build lasting profit into your business. Practical, simple, and made for the real world of salon ownership.

Click below to Join Today 👇

Rising Finances Online

💛 A HUGE Thank You to Our Podcast Sponsors - Timely

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

➡ 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 to claim the offer. Click the link below to join 👇

Timely

In this episode of Salon Rising The Podcast we did a deep dive into Tech!! Well we went into what utilising software can do for your business.

We were lucky to have Alyssa, General Manager of Kitomba Software join us in the inner sanctum. She shared her journey from marketing to management, and the role of data in business growth. This wasn't all just talking about how important software is for your business. Which it is, mind you! But we also looked at overcoming fears of numbers and efficient delegation. And utilising ways to market to potential customers outside of the creative fields.

It's so easy to say that our clients aren't sitting in front of computers, but some of them are! We explored the features of Kitomba. Like targeted marketing and reporting. And spoke into adapting and using technological advancements. Software is so much more than a Point of Sale these days. Streamline operations and allow more freedom and flow in your business.

EXCLUSIVE OFFER

Exclusive to Salon Rising podcast listeners, receive 100 complimentary texts per month for the duration of your term plus free migration from your software system to Kitomba when you sign up for the Kitomba Platinum or Diamond package before 30 September 2024.

Mention the Salon Rising podcast to claim this offer. Visit www.kitomba.com or call 1800 161 101 to book a free demo.

00:00 Episode Summary

02:26 Introducing Alyssa from Kitomba

04:35 Alyssa's Journey with Kitomba

05:46 The Impact of COVID on Marketing

07:01 Kitomba's Role in Business Growth

08:02 Maximizing Software Features for Success

13:42 The Importance of Reports and Team Motivation

19:44 The Future of AI and Technology in the Industry

27:57 Strategies for Business Growth and Time Management

31:53 Time Management and Strategy Planning

33:03 Finding Passion in Business Tasks

34:55 The Importance of Support Systems

37:26 Effective Marketing Strategies

39:46 Understanding and Utilizing Reports

50:51 Delegation and Team Empowerment

54:04 The Value of Software Systems

58:25 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Mentioned in this episode:

💛 A HUGE Thank You to Our Podcast Sponsors - Timely

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

➡ 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 to claim the offer. Click the link below to join 👇

Timely

Take Control of Your Salon Finances with Rising Finances Online

Running a salon with a team is exciting, but the money side can feel overwhelming. Tax, wages, cash flow, and pricing often leave owners stressed and second guessing.

That’s why we created Rising Finances Online, the step by step program that takes the guesswork out of salon finances.

Inside RFO, you’ll discover how to find your bottom dollar, price with confidence, stay on top of tax, and build lasting profit into your business. Practical, simple, and made for the real world of salon ownership.

Click below to Join Today 👇

Rising Finances Online