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The Noble Barber episodes
- 115: The Dapper Fox Deep Dive: Elsa Larkins on Building a 3-Shop Empire from £50
In this Noble Barber Deep Dive, Anthony Laban travels to the stunning Grade II listed Wandsworth site of The Dapper Fox to sit down with its founder, Elsa Larkins. This isn't just a story about opening a barber shop; it’s a masterclass in resilience, vision, and the brutal reality of being a "custodian" of a heritage building while scaling an international brand.
Elsa reveals the raw truth behind her start - opening her first shop with just £50 to her name after unexpectedly losing her job. We discuss the challenges of being a female business owner in a male-dominated industry, from facing skeptics who "laughed at her" to dealing with interviewees who didn't believe a woman could be in charge.
We also cover the essential "un-glamorous" side of business that every shop owner needs to hear: the £1,000 licensing traps for giving away "free" alcohol, the obsession required to manage a Grade II listed fit-out and the complexities of opening a third location internationally.
Whether you are an aspiring shop owner or a seasoned pro, Elsa’s journey from a one-chair setup to a multi-site lifestyle brand is the ultimate reality check for 2026.
Follow The Dapper Fox!
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thedapperfoxbarbersSUBSCRIBE TO THE NOBLE BARBERS CAREERS & ADVICE APP! 👇
Website: https://www.thenoblebarber.co.uk
FOLLOW US 🐂 ✂️
Linktree: https://linktr.ee/thenoblebarberpodcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenoblebarberpodcast
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thenoblebarberCredits:
Filmed & Edited by HAMLIN STUDIOS: https://www.instagram.com/hamlinstudios/?hl=en-gbTHE NOBLE BARBER PODCAST
Hosted by industry professional and award-winning barber Anthony Laban. Joined weekly by industry professionals to talk about barbering, becoming and maintaining a barber shop, hiring, employment, money and cutting through the crap of the industry.
58 min - 114: The Best of The Noble Barber: Mastering Work Ethic, Hustle & Growth in 2026
In this first "Best of" Compilation, The Noble Barber Podcast brings together a powerhouse of insights from top industry leaders on Work Ethic, Hustle, and Growth for 2026. This episode cuts through the noise of social media to deliver a raw, honest exploration of the mindset, financial discipline and strategic restraint required to transition from a busy stylist to a successful brand owner….
Our goal with this curated special is to provide you with a masterclass in professional survival and scaling. We move past technical tutorials to focus on the high-level business mechanics that separate industry leaders from the rest. We explore the foundational work ethic needed to sustain a high-end clientele - where 5 AM starts and relentless consistency are the norm - and dive into the heavy financial realities of building premium spaces.
This compilation features heavy-hitting wisdom from legendary figures including:
Mark Maciver (Slider Cuts) on the relentless 5 AM grind and managing elite expectations.
Tom Hoffman (Diligence) on the reality of a £100k shop fit and how to scale
Kevin Luchmun on managing expansion like a "second baby" and avoiding the expansion-for-ego trap.
Josh Lamonaca on the courage required to lead a global team of over 100 employees.
Paul Stafford on why we fear professional pricing and the importance of valuing our skill.
Jord Roberts (Barbers No. 1) on identifying management potential and the path from shop floor to brand director.
Ian Harrold on recognizing the difference between a business move and an "ego play".What you will take away from this episode:
The Blueprint for Growth: Learn why scaling a brand requires moving from a "lone wolf" mentality to building collaborative systems that live beyond the original owner.Risk vs. Ego: Discover how to manage expansion by mastering your first location and "sweating the assets" before doubling the stakes.
The Profit Pivot: Insights into why we often value our time less than other professions and how to articulate your professional worth to a demanding clientele.Leadership and Delegation: Practical advice on identifying management potential early and delegating operational "headaches" to stay focused on your creative strengths.
Whether you are looking to open your first chair or your tenth shop, this "Best of" special provides the strategic insight needed to grow your brand and your profits in today’s competitive climate.
SUBSCRIBE TO THE NOBLE BARBERS CAREERS & ADVICE APP! 👇
Website: https://www.thenoblebarber.co.uk
FOLLOW US 🐂 ✂️
Linktree: https://linktr.ee/thenoblebarberpodcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenoblebarberpodcast
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thenoblebarberCredits:
Filmed & Edited by HAMLIN STUDIOS: https://www.instagram.com/hamlinstudios/?hl=en-gbTHE NOBLE BARBER PODCAST
Hosted by industry professional and award-winning barber Anthony Laban. Joined weekly by industry professionals to talk about barbering, becoming and maintaining a barber shop, hiring, employment, money and cutting through the crap of the industry.
24 min - 113: The Truth About Global Barbering: Michael Kontos & JJ Savani on LSB’s India Expansion
PROUDLY SPONSORED BY THE LONDON SCHOOL OF BARBERING! Use Our Exclusive Code ‘noblebarber26’ for £250 off their 9 & 12 Week NVQ Level Courses 👇
Website: https://www.londonschoolofbarbering.com/
In Part 2 of our conversation at the London School of Barbering, Anthony Laban sits down with Michael Kontos and JJ Savani to discuss the untapped potential of the global barbering market.
JJ Savani shares his remarkable journey of falling back in love with the craft after losing his sight and how he transitioned from a career in NHS management psychology into becoming a headline educator. We dive deep into the "status game" of the international market—where image and prestige drive pricing—and why LSB is now pioneering UK-based qualifications for a market of 1.4 billion people in India.
Michael and JJ also break down the "Endgame" of social media, explaining why a high follower count is a vanity metric if you don't have the positioning to create conversion. Plus, Michael reveals why he would hire a technical scissor cutter over a "flawless fade" specialist every single time.
Follow LSB! https://www.instagram.com/londonschoolofbarbering
Follow JJ: https://www.instagram.com/jjsavaniSUBSCRIBE TO THE NOBLE BARBERS CAREERS & ADVICE APP! 👇
Website: https://www.thenoblebarber.co.uk
FOLLOW US 🐂 ✂️
Linktree: https://linktr.ee/thenoblebarberpodcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenoblebarberpodcast
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thenoblebarberCredits:
Filmed & Edited by HAMLIN STUDIOS: https://www.instagram.com/hamlinstudios/?hl=en-gbTHE NOBLE BARBER PODCAST
Hosted by industry professional and award-winning barber Anthony Laban. Joined weekly by industry professionals to talk about barbering, becoming and maintaining a barber shop, hiring, employment, money and cutting through the crap of the industry.
54 min - 112: Barber College vs. Shop Reality: What They Don't Teach w/ Kevin Luchmun & Roxanne Batt
PROUDLY SPONSORED BY THE LONDON SCHOOL OF BARBERING! Use Our Exclusive Code ‘noblebarber26’ for £250 off their 9 & 12 Week NVQ Level Courses 👇
Website: https://www.londonschoolofbarbering.com/
In Part 2 of our conversation with Kevin Luchmun & Roxanne Batt, we dive deep into the reality of scaling a brand while maintaining a "soul" Kevin reveals his "Avengers" philosophy to hiring - where every barber has a unique superpower - and explains why he actively encourages his staff to one day open their own shop…
We get a unfiltered look at the "madness" of Kevin's global schedule, from 10-hour flights to 5 AM clients and why he believes the current college system is failing the next generation by focusing on scripts instead of life skills. Roxanne shares the "fire in the belly" required to step onto a stage like the Barber Bash and why she views the Hartford shop as her "baby" Whether you're a junior barber or a shop owner eyeing a second location, this episode is a masterclass in managing risk, avoiding ego-driven decisions and the power of networking!
Follow Kevin! https://www.instagram.com/kevinluchman
Follow Roxanne! https://www.instagram.com/batt_hairFOLLOW US 🐂 ✂️
Linktree: https://linktr.ee/thenoblebarberpodcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenoblebarberpodcast
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thenoblebarberCredits:
Filmed & Edited by HAMLIN STUDIOS: https://www.instagram.com/hamlinstudios/?hl=en-gbTHE NOBLE BARBER PODCAST
Hosted by industry professional and award-winning barber Anthony Laban. Joined weekly by industry professionals to talk about barbering, becoming and maintaining a barber shop, hiring, employment, money and cutting through the crap of the industry.
40 min - 111: Fast Track vs Apprenticeships: The Future of Barber Education with Michael Kontos of LSB
PROUDLY SPONSORED BY THE LONDON SCHOOL OF BARBERING! Use Our Exclusive Code ‘noblebarber26’ for £250 off their 9 & 12 Week NVQ Level Courses 👇
Website: https://www.londonschoolofbarbering.com/
Welcome back to The Noble Barber Podcast, Anthony Laban sits down with Michael Kontos, owner and founder of the London School of Barbering (LSB). With 15 years in the game, Michael has seen the industry evolve from the "short back and sides" era to a global fashion powerhouse. He addresses the initial "flak" he caught for his "Novice to Master" philosophy and explains why the traditional apprenticeship is "panting in the corner" as 30-year-olds look for a faster route into the craft.
Michael pulls no punches on the current state of the industry, from the rise of "ego-boy" YouTubers to the "loyalty crisis" facing shop owners today. We discuss the expansion of LSB into India and Malaysia, the reality of sole ownership, and why a barber’s social skills are just as important as their fade. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a "home-taught" barber looking for structure, this conversation is an honest look at what it takes to survive and thrive in 2026.
Follow LSB! https://www.instagram.com/londonschoolofbarbering
FOLLOW US 🐂 ✂️
Linktree: https://linktr.ee/thenoblebarberpodcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenoblebarberpodcast
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thenoblebarberCredits:
Filmed & Edited by HAMLIN STUDIOS: https://www.instagram.com/hamlinstudios/?hl=en-gbTHE NOBLE BARBER PODCAST
Hosted by industry professional and award-winning barber Anthony Laban. Joined weekly by industry professionals to talk about barbering, becoming and maintaining a barber shop, hiring, employment, money and cutting through the crap of the industry.
39 min - 110: The Multi-Shop Mindset: Expansion, Trust and the Pricing Hump w/ Kevin Luchmun & Roxanne Batt
PROUDLY SPONSORED BY THE LONDON SCHOOL OF BARBERING! Use Our Exclusive Code ‘noblebarber26’ for £250 off their 9 & 12 Week NVQ Level Courses! 👇
Claim here: https://www.londonschoolofbarbering.com/
Welcome back to The Noble Barber Podcast,, Anthony Laban travels to Hertfordshire to sit down with international educator and shop owner Kevin Luchmun alongside Roxanne Batt. After decades of being a "one-man band" in London, Kevin reveals the raw, daunting reality of opening his second location and the "therapy" required to finally let go and trust a team…
Kevin and Roxanne also tackle one of the industry's biggest frustrations: The Pricing Hump. Why are barbers still charging £35 when a salon down the road gets £95 for the same service? Kevin breaks down his business model, the strategy of "free haircuts" to build a chair from scratch and why he self-invested everything to create a five-star experience built on perfect lighting and flawless customer service.
Follow Kevin! https://www.instagram.com/kevinluchman
Follow Roxanne! https://www.instagram.com/batt_hairFOLLOW US 🐂 ✂️
Linktree: https://linktr.ee/thenoblebarberpodcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenoblebarberpodcast
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thenoblebarberCredits:
Filmed & Edited by HAMLIN STUDIOS: https://www.instagram.com/hamlinstudios/?hl=en-gbTHE NOBLE BARBER PODCAST
Hosted by industry professional and award-winning barber Anthony Laban. Joined weekly by industry professionals to talk about barbering, becoming and maintaining a barber shop, hiring, employment, money and cutting through the crap of the industry.
45 min - 109: The Studio vs. Shop Floor Debate & Financial Reality Checks with Pete & Romeo (Part 2)
Happy New Year to all! We’re back in Liverpool for the conclusion of our conversation with Romeo the Barber and Pete Cranfield. In this episode, we move past the origins and dive straight into the heart of the modern industry: the debate between the traditional shop floor and the rise of the private studio. Pete and Romeo discuss why young barbers might be rushing into solo spaces too soon, missing out on the "brotherhood," the banter and the vital "degree-less therapy" that only happens in a busy shop…
The guys also get incredibly honest about the "celebrity barber" lifestyle. Romeo shares the hidden side of cutting world-class footballers - from the literal shakes of cutting a star for the first time to the frustration of waiting hours in a hotel room for a 20-minute trim while your shop's "bread and butter" clients are waiting back home. Finally, we end with a masterclass in "Haircut Math" Romeo and Pete drop some hard truths about financial discipline, why you shouldn't finance a Premier League lifestyle on a barber's wage and how to view every luxury purchase through the lens of how many heads you have to cut to afford it…
Follow Romeo! https://www.instagram.com/romeothebarber
Follow Pete! https://www.instagram.com/petejcranfield
SUBSCRIBE TO THE NOBLE BARBERS CAREERS & ADVICE APP! 👇
Website: https://www.thenoblebarber.co.uk
FOLLOW US 🐂 ✂️
Linktree: https://linktr.ee/thenoblebarberpodcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenoblebarberpodcast
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thenoblebarber
Credits:
Filmed & Edited by HAMLIN STUDIOS: https://www.instagram.com/hamlinstudios/?hl=en-gb
THE NOBLE BARBER PODCAST
Hosted by industry professional and award-winning barber Anthony Laban. Joined weekly by industry professionals to talk about barbering, becoming and maintaining a barber shop, hiring, employment, money and cutting through the crap of the industry.38 min - 108: Barber Deep Dive: Joe MillsWelcome back to a special Boxing Day edition of our Deep Dive limited series, where we sit down with the industry figures who have truly defined the craft. Today, we are in King's Cross with the man who needs no introduction: Joe Mills. From his beginnings in Margate to the heights of Soho’s cool Britannia era, Joe’s career has been a 40-year masterclass in innovation, resilience and survival…
Joe takes us through the electric energy of the 90s Soho scene, where his brands The Lounge and Joe and Co led fashion trends and drew global attention from the likes of Vogue and GQ. He reflects on the immense pressure of scaling - detailing the highs of the ‘Primark x Mills’ rollout and the brutal reality of managing a massive team while navigating a divorce.
He recounts the harrowing experience of his business flooding during the height of the pandemic, battling insurance companies while suffering from panic attacks and depression and the "final straw" moment that led him to close his legendary Soho shops for good. Now "accelerating" at 56, Joe shares why he chose to open Woolf King's Cross and launch his own agency, proving that even after the darkest chapters, there is an opportunity to rewrite your story and find true happiness in the craft.
Follow Joe!
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joemillshair
FOLLOW US 🐂 ✂️
Linktree: https://linktr.ee/thenoblebarberpodcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenoblebarberpodcast
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thenoblebarber
Credits:
Filmed & Edited by HAMLIN STUDIOS: https://www.instagram.com/hamlinstudios/?hl=en-gb
THE NOBLE BARBER PODCAST
Hosted by industry professional and award-winning barber Anthony Laban. Joined weekly by industry professionals to talk about barbering, becoming and maintaining a barber shop, hiring, employment, money and cutting through the crap of the industry.1 hr 33 min - 107: Barber Deep Dive: Barbers No.1 Jord Roberts
Welcome back to our Deep Dive limited series exploring the true stories behind the industry's biggest names. In this episode, we sit down with Jord Roberts, the Brand Director of BarbersNo1. From starting as an unsure apprentice 14 years ago to overseeing a brand with 16 locations and three training academies, Jord’s journey is the ultimate blueprint for career growth within a large company.
Jord opens up about his "best failure" - being denied a job after his first apprenticeship - and how that setback fueled his drive to find a company with a bigger vision. He discusses the early days of BarbersNo1, when they were just a five-man team pioneering the "neon light and DJ" shop vibe in Liverpool, long before it became an industry standard. Jord reveals the mindset required to scale, explaining why he stayed loyal to the brand instead of opening his own studio: "I’d much rather be a part of something bigger... the growth opportunities are endless"
We also go behind the scenes of Jord’s high-profile clientele. He shares the legendary story of how a trainee running out to a car at a red light led to an 8-year relationship with Liverpool's elite players, eventually taking Jord to Brazil national team camps to cut Neymar and the world's biggest stars. Whether you’re an apprentice or a shop owner, this episode is a masterclass in professional management, building local culture and the power of traditional employment in a modern world.53 min - 106: Barber Deep Dive: Romeo The BarberWelcome back to our Christmas limited series, Barber Deep Dive, where we explore the full, inspiring stories of a key industry figures. We continue with the extraordinary journey of Romeo The Barber, whose path to success was forged in conflict and hustle…
Romeo opens up about his childhood on the outskirts of Kenya, growing up in a large family amid civil war and poverty, where clothes were passed down and money was earned selling bracelets to tourists. He details the immense cultural pressure to pursue education, revealing why he studied nutrition and health - as barbering was seen as a sign that "you failed in life". His early success was built on pure charisma: he gave confidence and motivation to clients, admitting his first few haircuts were "the most crappiest".
Now a successful owner, Romeo reveals his philosophy of living by gratitude, flow and his commitment to breaking industry barriers - from proving the 20-minute cut is possible to confronting other barbers to encourage collaboration over competition. He shares why his success is ultimately dedicated to the memory of his mother and making his family proud.
Follow Romeo!
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/romeothebarber
FOLLOW US 🐂 ✂️
Linktree: https://linktr.ee/thenoblebarberpodcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenoblebarberpodcast
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thenoblebarber
Credits:
Filmed & Edited by HAMLIN STUDIOS: https://www.instagram.com/hamlinstudios/?hl=en-gb
THE NOBLE BARBER PODCAST
Hosted by industry professional and award-winning barber Anthony Laban. Joined weekly by industry professionals to talk about barbering, becoming and maintaining a barber shop, hiring, employment, money and cutting through the crap of the industry.1 hr 2 min
About The Noble Barber
From the publisher's feed
Top Barber Podcast hosted by indursry proffesional Anthony Laban. The only podcast that is "cutting through the crap". Weekly guests featured talking through any and everything barber related.