The fast pace of innovations in Artificial intelligence is like nothing we've ever seen - including the release last week of the exponentially powerful Deep Research functions that Open AI, Perpleixity, and Google's Gemini have all just launched. This week I give my take on the power of this innovation to go deep into 'the weeds' of our industry to provide meaningful insights into the true inner workings of the pro beauty industry.

Although there is much uncertainty around the plan to put tariffs on Mexico, Canada, China and the E.U., the ongoing threat makes this a topic perhaps worthy of some conversation. Big picture, tariff's almost always add inflationary pressures (for starters). Given our industry's struggles with pricing and price increases-and the large amount of products, tools and furnishings being imported, some context may be helpful to some. Listen in for my take on the possible impact of tariffs - and how to think of about them should they end up happening.

My quick tour around the various digital and social platform categories and tools with my added take on how to consider each in building your career and/or business. My most important 'aha' relative to this topic: social media is not only 'old' but it is also very much overhyped in terms of results across the industry. As a long-time 'evangelist' for these platforms relative, I'm here to say that we should all take a big step back to consider our effort vs ROI around all things social media and our careers.

My first recording of the new year is about looking forward - and sharing my thoughts on where technology could be taking our industry. I also check in with Chat GPT to get an AI 'perspective' on where robotics (and related technologies) could take salons and professionals over the next 20 years. Importantly, our larger world of consumers does not have a great history of considering the needs of the workforce that serves it (across industries) as a reason NOT to change the role of said workforce. Think about it...

This episode is re-shared for a 5-part Anthology of 2024's most-listened to episodes -all focused on "Bad Coaching" and the misinformation and real damage it can cause. Schedule of Anthology releases: 12/25: #76 12/30: #78, 1/1: #87, 1/6: #98, and 1/8: #80.

Today's episode description: Apologies for remaining in the bad coaching lane but they are at it again - this time recommending salons spend $2500 on building a custome app that will, according to the duo, be more valuable than your business when you decide to one day sell.  Add to that a new website that seems suspiciously connected to all of the 'destruction' and I'm back down the proverbial rabbit hole of concern. The last time i hope to talk about these folks for a while.

This episode is re-shared for a 5-part Anthology of 2024's most-listened to episodes -all focused on "Bad Coaching" and the misinformation and real damage it can cause. Schedule of Anthology releases: 12/25: #76 12/30: #78, 1/1: #87, 1/6: #98, and 1/8: #80. 

Today's episode description: My quick update on the continuing challenge of bad coaching (fueled by misinformation and clickbait). Sadly, careers and salons continue to be DESTROYED by an effort to somehow "salon differently" under the 'guidance' of those selling programs and services to do what these coaches have never done - owned or managed commissioned salons.

This episode is re-shared for a 5-part Anthology of 2024's most-listened to episodes -all focused on "Bad Coaching" and the misinformation and real damage it can cause. Schedule of Anthology releases: 12/25: #76 12/30: #78, 1/1: #87, 1/6: #98, and 1/8: #80.

Today's episode description: Following another DTH podcast sharing MORE bad advice(on how to leave a salon as an employee), I'm inspired to react to it - and a lot more. I've dug deep into DTH to try and figure out why they think the way they do - and I may have found the answer! If you are following my talks on the dangers of bad coaches, don't miss this one.

This episode is re-shared for a 5-part Anthology of 2024's most-listened to episodes -all focused on "Bad Coaching" and the misinformation and real damage it can cause. Schedule of Anthology releases: 12/25: #76 12/30: #78, 1/1: #87, 1/6: #98, and 1/8: #80. 

Today's episode description: Apologies in advance for going down this rabbit hole but hearing the anti-retail coaches suddenly promote in-salon retail stopped me in my tracks - for about a minute. On closer listen, it became clear that this change of heart was not what it seemed. Listen in for my take on the reality of traditional vs 'private label/white label' retail models - and more.

This episode is re-shared for a 5-part Anthology of 2024's most-listened to episodes -all focused on "Bad Coaching" and the misinformation and real damage it can cause. Schedule of Anthology releases: 12/25: #76 12/30: #78, 1/1: #87, 1/6: #98, and 1/8: #80.

Today's episode description: "Change" is more often than not a good thing - and is essential for any business to thrive in the long term. Having said this, with change comes risk - perhaps today more than ever given the amount of industry-related misinformation being spread far and wide by too many. In this episode, I dig into the 'methodology' of one coaching group (per a recent IG post), offer my take on the thinking behind some of these ideas, and more. Buckle up and listen in!

I am wrapping up 2024 with a quick rant on the continuing flow of misinformation hijacking too many businesses and careers - for all the wrong reasons. I end with some thoughts about the coming year. Wishing all a wonderful holiday season and a great start to the new year just around the corner!