The Elevate Podcast

The Elevate Podcast

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The Elevate Podcast episodes

  • 185. The Phone System That Changed Everything for My Salon

    Try my favorite phone system, Quo, and receive a $20 Visa gift card! https://quo.com/referral/gk8I-pH 

    Opulent Beauty Pro is in a temporary pause, but new episodes of The Elevate Podcast continue every other Monday. Connect with me on Instagram @patricia_nowakowski_obs, get access to my free courses on YouTube, and join my email list to be the first to know about when I'm back!

    Free Salon Amenity Guide: https://opulentbeautypro.mykajabi.com/amenityguide

    Free Lead Like An Owner E-Book Preview: https://opulentbeautypro.mykajabi.com/ebook

    Private 1:1 coaching remains available with limited availability.

    1 Session: https://opulentbeautypro.mykajabi.com/offers/pLzGMNnR/checkout

    2 Sessions: https://opulentbeautypro.mykajabi.com/offers/sbzzEr9X/checkout

    4 Sessions: https://opulentbeautypro.mykajabi.com/offers/gn5p6TP2/checkout

     

    Your phone system is not just a tool, it’s your first impression, your sales system, and a major driver of client experience.

    In this episode of The Elevate Podcast, I’m breaking down the phone system that completely changed how our salon operates. From missed calls and front-desk overwhelm to seamless communication and increased bookings, this system has had a measurable impact on our revenue, our team, and our client experience.

    Inside the episode, I share:

    • Why salons lose more money from missed calls than they realize

    • How our phone system allows us to run front-of-house from anywhere

    • How recorded calls transformed training and quality control

    • Why texting is no longer optional for modern salons

    • How auto-replies and AI support protect revenue

    • What changed when our communication finally matched our brand

      If your front desk feels chaotic, your team is overwhelmed, or you suspect missed calls are costing you money, this episode will shift how you think about salon communication systems.

      Try my favorite phone system, Quo, and receive a $20 Visa gift card! https://quo.com/referral/gk8I-pH 

      14 min
    • 184. How to Have Constructive Conversations With Your Team (Without Creating Conflict)

      Opulent Beauty Pro is in a temporary pause, but new episodes of The Elevate Podcast continue every other Monday. Connect with me on Instagram @patricia_nowakowski_obs, get access to my free courses on YouTube, and join my email list to be the first to know about when I'm back!

      Free Salon Amenity Guide: https://opulentbeautypro.mykajabi.com/amenityguide

      Free Lead Like An Owner E-Book Preview: https://opulentbeautypro.mykajabi.com/ebook

      Private 1:1 coaching remains available with limited availability.

      1 Session: https://opulentbeautypro.mykajabi.com/offers/pLzGMNnR/checkout

      2 Sessions: https://opulentbeautypro.mykajabi.com/offers/sbzzEr9X/checkout

      4 Sessions: https://opulentbeautypro.mykajabi.com/offers/gn5p6TP2/checkout

      Constructive conversations are one of the most important leadership skills a salon owner can develop... yet it's one of the most avoided skills to work on.

      In this episode of The Elevate Podcast, we break down how to have conversations with your team that are clarifying instead of confrontational. Conversations that protect your culture, reinforce standards, and move behavior forward without emotional escalation or avoidance.

      You’ll learn:

      • Why constructive conversations should focus on clarity, not feelings

      • How to regulate yourself before a hard conversation

      • Why naming emotions without judgment matters

      • How ego gets in the way of effective leadership

      • The true purpose of a constructive conversation

      • A simple framework to align behavior with standards

      • How to close conversations with commitment and clarity

        If you’ve ever delayed a conversation because you didn’t want conflict, or walked away feeling misunderstood, this episode will change how you approach leadership conversations moving forward.

        24 min
      • 183. Stop Avoiding This One Thing With Your Team In 2026

        Opulent Beauty Pro is in a temporary pause, but new episodes of The Elevate Podcast continue every other Monday. Connect with me on Instagram @patricia_nowakowski_obs, get access to my free courses on YouTube, and join my email list to be the first to know about when I'm back!

        Free Salon Amenity Guide: https://opulentbeautypro.mykajabi.com/amenityguide

        Free Lead Like An Owner E-Book Preview: https://opulentbeautypro.mykajabi.com/ebook

        Private 1:1 coaching remains available with limited availability.

        1 Session: https://opulentbeautypro.mykajabi.com/offers/pLzGMNnR/checkout

        2 Sessions: https://opulentbeautypro.mykajabi.com/offers/sbzzEr9X/checkout

        4 Sessions: https://opulentbeautypro.mykajabi.com/offers/gn5p6TP2/checkout

        Many salon owners believe that being understanding, flexible, and “nice” is what makes them a good leader. But what if that belief is actually holding your team back?

        In this episode of The Elevate Podcast, we’re talking about the one thing most salon owners avoidand why that avoidance quietly damages accountability, confidence, culture, income, and the client experience.

        You’ll learn:

        • Why letting things slide is not kindness, but avoidance

        • What actually happens to your team when expectations aren’t enforced

        • How lack of accountability impacts high performers, low performers, and overall morale

        • The hidden cost of avoiding hard conversations

        • Why clarity, consistency, and follow-through are the real forms of leadership

          If you want 2026 to feel lighter, more aligned, and more profitable, this episode will challenge how you think about leadership and show you what needs to change.

          21 min
        • 182. How I'm Getting Off The Hamster Wheel In 2026

          Opulent Beauty Pro is in a temporary pause, but new episodes of The Elevate Podcast continue every other Monday. Connect with me on Instagram @patricia_nowakowski_obs, get access to my free courses on YouTube, and join my email list to be the first to know about when I'm back!

          Free Salon Amenity Guide: https://opulentbeautypro.mykajabi.com/amenityguide

          Free Lead Like An Owner E-Book Preview: https://opulentbeautypro.mykajabi.com/ebook

          Private 1:1 coaching remains available with limited availability.

          1 Session: https://opulentbeautypro.mykajabi.com/offers/pLzGMNnR/checkout

          2 Sessions: https://opulentbeautypro.mykajabi.com/offers/sbzzEr9X/checkout

          4 Sessions: https://opulentbeautypro.mykajabi.com/offers/gn5p6TP2/checkout

          Purchase my Secret Shopper Toolkit here: https://opulentbeautypro.mykajabi.com/offers/JdSbjXr8/checkout

          Opulent Beauty Pro is in a temporary pause, but new episodes of The Elevate Podcast continue every other Monday. Connect with me on Instagram @patricia_nowakowski_obs, get access to my free courses on YouTube, and join my email list to be the first to know about when I'm back.

          Private 1:1 coaching remains available with limited availability.I’m taking you behind the scenes of my 2026 planning process and sharing what I’m doing differently to break the cycle of constant busyness and move into a more strategic, intentional year ahead.

          This year, I brought in secret shoppers to evaluate the Opulent Beauty guest experience and their feedback showed me gaps I didn’t know existed. From consultation flow to front desk systems to service consistency, this experience reshaped how I’m approaching growth and leadership next year.

          Inside the episode we walk through:

          • Why I’m investing in one-on-one coaching again

          • What the secret shopper results revealed about my salon

          • The importance of looking at your business through an unbiased lens

          • How I’m prioritizing development, systems, and accountability for 2026

            This episode is perfect for any salon owner who feels like they’re running on fumes or growing without clarity and wants a more strategic way forward.

            17 min
          • 181. This Episode Will Make You Think Differently About This TikTok Scandal

            Want the full episode + supporting PDFs? Join my podcast coaching program, The Elevate Insider: https://www.opulentbeautypro.com/offers/mfWaCmoz/checkout  

            Or purchase the supporting guide alone here: https://www.opulentbeautypro.com/offers/oxncZYys/checkout 

             

            The Salon Owner Blueprint & My Salon Owner Community: https://www.opulentbeautypro.com/blueprint

            12 Week Training Program: https://www.opulentbeautypro.com/training 

            1 On 1 Coaching: https://www.opulentbeautypro.com/coaching

            Hands-On & Virtual Extension Education: https://www.opulentbeautypro.com/extensions

            Social Media Support: https://www.opulentbeautypro.com/socialmedia

            Free Education: https://www.opulentbeautypro.com/free


            Socials:

            Business Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/opulentbeautypro/
            Personal Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/patricia_nowakowski_obs/#
            YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@opulentbeautypro/featured

             

            A recent TikTok video went viral showing a client explaining how she paid $4,000 for extensions at a popular salon and the internet had plenty to say about it. (Watch the video here: https://www.tiktok.com/@notfamous808/video/7571646678005058830?_r=1&_t=ZT-91YsTFZnAGd)

            But the real conversation isn’t about the price. It’s about value.

            If you’re ready to think differently about pricing, value, and marketing and start positioning your salon for the level of client you want to attract, this episode will challenge and inspire you to step into a higher standard.

            38 min
          • 180. A Salon Owner and Stylist’s Guide to Maximizing Your Earning Potential

            Want the full episode + supporting PDFs? Join my podcast coaching program, The Elevate Insider. Get your first month free by clicking here: https://www.opulentbeautypro.com/offers/mfWaCmoz?coupon_code=INSIDER

            Or purchase the supporting guide alone here: https://www.opulentbeautypro.com/offers/BHoqD86D/checkout 

             

            The Salon Owner Blueprint & My Salon Owner Community: https://www.opulentbeautypro.com/blueprint

            12 Week Training Program: https://www.opulentbeautypro.com/training 

            1 On 1 Coaching: https://www.opulentbeautypro.com/coaching

            Hands-On & Virtual Extension Education: https://www.opulentbeautypro.com/extensions

            Social Media Support: https://www.opulentbeautypro.com/socialmedia

            Free Education: https://www.opulentbeautypro.com/free


            Socials:

            Business Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/opulentbeautypro/
            Personal Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/patricia_nowakowski_obs/#
            YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@opulentbeautypro/featured

             

            Are you a salon owner or stylist looking to grow your income and make the most of your time behind the chair? In this episode, we break down practical strategies to maximize your earning potential. Whether it’s boosting service revenue, increasing retail sales, or optimizing your schedule.

            I share actionable tips based on real salon experience, common mistakes to avoid, and the mindset shifts that can help you earn more without burning out. If you’re ready to take control of your income and make every appointment count, this episode is for you.

            24 min
          • 179. How I Structure My Training Program (And Why It Works & Saves Me Money)

            To get a preview of my 12 Week Training Program, purchase it here https://www.opulentbeautypro.com/offers/qLbT6zSt/checkout or join The Elevate Insider to receive it for free https://www.opulentbeautypro.com/insider 

            To purchase the entire 12 Week Training Program for only $199, visit https://www.opulentbeautypro.com/offers/GoqUSPim/checkout 

            Hiring is a constant struggle for salon owners. We need stylists to work for us, but when new stylists just out of school that need a lot of training and support apply to work for us the overwhelm sets in.

            Training is a lot of time, energy, effort, and money. But when you implement a training program in your salon, it doesn't have to be so stressful and expensive.

            I offer new hires access to my 12 Week Training Program, which allows them to work on my 4 pillars of success: technical skills, client experience, mindset, and marketing/social media.

            When stylists work on these 4 pillars, they become confident stylists that are ready to take clients.

            28 min
          • 178. Luxury Isn't A Vibe, It's A Standard

            To get your supporting PDF, visit https://www.opulentbeautypro.com/offers/g2KCiLSt/checkout 

            Many salon owners believe that luxury is about a beautiful space, high-end products, or fancy beverages. The truth? Luxury is a standard, not a vibe.

            In this episode of Insider, we dive into what it truly takes to create a luxury salon experience. You’ll learn how to:

            • Anticipate client needs and deliver before it’s expected (like cleaning hairlines, informing about external disruptions, or offering thoughtful conveniences).

            • Provide an impeccable client experience every single time.

            • Deliver exceptional customer service with integrity and attention to detail.

            • Train your team to consistently deliver a high-end experience, ensuring every client leaves feeling valued.

              We also break down lessons from the Ritz-Carlton and Disney on going above and beyond for clients, and how you can apply these standards in your salon immediately.

              If you’re ready to elevate your salon beyond aesthetics and products, and make luxury a repeatable standard, this episode is for you.

              21 min
            • 177. Listen To This Before You Switch Booking Systems

              To purchase the supporting guide for this episode, visithttps://www.opulentbeautypro.com/offers/LR2MKcXp/checkout

              Want the full episode + supporting PDFs? Join my podcast coaching program, The Elevate Insider. Get your first month free by clicking here: https://www.opulentbeautypro.com/offers/mfWaCmoz?coupon_code=INSIDER

              To get the full episode + supporting guides, join The Elevate Insider! https://www.opulentbeautypro.com/insider 

              The Salon Owner Blueprint & My Salon Owner Community: https://www.opulentbeautypro.com/blueprint

              12 Week Training Program: https://www.opulentbeautypro.com/training 

              1 On 1 Coaching: https://www.opulentbeautypro.com/coaching

              Hands-On & Virtual Extension Education: https://www.opulentbeautypro.com/extensions

              Social Media Support: https://www.opulentbeautypro.com/socialmedia

              Free Education: https://www.opulentbeautypro.com/free


              Socials:

              Business Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/opulentbeautypro/
              Personal Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/patricia_nowakowski_obs/#
              YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@opulentbeautypro/featured

               

              At the beginning of the year, I sent out a survey that completely opened my eyes. I received hundreds of responses, and most found our online booking confusing or difficult.

              I immediately went into problem solving mode and spent hours researching which company to switch to. This year alone, I've used 3 booking systems and have tried 4 in total in my 14 years of business.

              Throughout this process, I've had many realizations. The biggest one? No booking system is perfect.

              Tune in to hear the pros and cons of the 4 systems I tried, and what you need to be mindful of if you're ready to make a switch!

              44 min
            • 176. I Don't Believe In Motivating My Team, Here's What I Do Instead

              To purchase the supporting guide for this episode, visit https://www.opulentbeautypro.com/offers/ZEALFXUz

              Want the full episode + supporting PDFs? Join my podcast coaching program, The Elevate Insider. Get your first month free by clicking here: https://www.opulentbeautypro.com/offers/mfWaCmoz?coupon_code=INSIDER

              To get the full episode + supporting guides, join The Elevate Insider! https://www.opulentbeautypro.com/insider 

              The Salon Owner Blueprint & My Salon Owner Community: https://www.opulentbeautypro.com/blueprint

              12 Week Training Program: https://www.opulentbeautypro.com/training 

              1 On 1 Coaching: https://www.opulentbeautypro.com/coaching

              Hands-On & Virtual Extension Education: https://www.opulentbeautypro.com/extensions

              Social Media Support: https://www.opulentbeautypro.com/socialmedia

              Free Education: https://www.opulentbeautypro.com/free


              Socials:

              Business Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/opulentbeautypro/
              Personal Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/patricia_nowakowski_obs/#
              YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@opulentbeautypro/featured

               

              Would you believe me if I told you that I don't motivate my team? No pep talks, no bonuses, no seminars.

              Instead, I move forward with a clear strategy that begins during the hiring process. I'm discovering my team's "why," learning what they value, and helping them build confidence.

              Motivation is fleeting, leading your team based on their personal values is what sticks.

              24 min

            About The Elevate Podcast

            From the publisher's feed

            Join Patricia Nowakowski every other Monday to elevate your mindset & business! Patricia is a coach for salon owners as well as a commission salon owner, studio rental owner and founder of Opulent…

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