The REFINE Network

Salon owners, this episode is for you! We’re pulling back the curtain on the creation of the Artist Academy—a game-changing program designed to transform how you train, develop, and empower your stylists.

Join Evan and Christopher as they share the journey from concept to launch, revealing how this training system went from a simple idea to a powerful tool that’s already making waves in the salon industry. Hear from special guests and learn how the Artist Academy is helping salon owners save time, avoid burnout, and fast-track stylist success—all while creating a more consistent and profitable salon experience.

If you’re ready to take your salon to the next level, don’t miss this inside look at what could be the key to unlocking your team’s potential!

In this episode, Christopher and Evan host Gordon Miller, discussing industry insights, the importance of vision, and the evolution of business models.

They introduced topics such as navigating industry challenges with expertise, setting realistic goals, and the significance of financial literacy. Gordon shares personal anecdotes, emphasizes the need for informed decisions, and elaborates on the financial missteps within the industry.

They cover contentious topics like tipping, retail product sales, and service quality. Closing thoughts stress the value of mentoring, simplicity in business, and fostering artistically inclined professionals in understanding their financial potential.

Welcome to the Refine Network podcast! We’re excited you’ve joined us today. In this throwback episode from 2021, we feature a captivating conversation with Jesse Cole, the innovative owner of the Savannah Bananas, a minor league baseball team in Savannah, Georgia. Jesse Cole shares how he transformed a struggling baseball team into a fan-first entertainment phenomenon. Inspired by his mentors, Walt Disney and PT Barnum, Jesse conducted a poll revealing that traditional baseball was seen as too long and boring. He reimagined the game to make it fun and engaging, eliminating common friction points like high concession costs and slow gameplay. Jesse’s company, Fans First Entertainment, focuses on creating an unforgettable experience for fans. From all-inclusive tickets to unique game elements like dancing players and creative promotions, the Savannah Bananas have become a sensation, selling out every game with a waitlist of over 12,000 fans. In this episode, Jesse discusses the development of “Banana Ball,” a faster and more exciting version of baseball, and how his team continuously innovates to keep fans entertained. He also shares insights into his journey, the importance of thinking outside the box, and how he constantly seeks to improve the fan experience. Tune in for an inspiring conversation that highlights the impact of creativity, perseverance, and putting fans first. Jesse’s story is a testament to the power of thinking differently and the importance of creating memorable experiences. Don’t miss this fascinating episode!

In this episode of theREFINEnetwork Podcast, hosts Christopher and Evan discuss their strategies for effectively setting up and managing a team. They share personal experiences from their own companies, emphasizing the importance of morning meetings, referred to as "Muggs meetings."

These meetings are designed to set the right mindset, unify the team, set goals, and determine how team members can serve each other. Evan and Christopher provide an example structure for these meetings, including checking in on team members' current states and challenges, highlighting successes from the previous day, and setting goals for the current day.

They stress the importance of being proactive rather than reactive and fostering a supportive team environment. They also discuss the concept of being "closed-handed" or "open-handed" with certain company policies and practices, adapting as necessary for team success and growth.

The hosts conclude by offering to help others implement similar strategies in their own organizations, emphasizing the need for careful planning and customization to fit each unique team.

In this podcast episode, hosts Christopher and Evan discuss their leadership journeys, emphasizing the importance of building relationships and equity within their teams.

They highlight key principles such as viewing team members as volunteers to better understand their needs, the significance of earning respect and trust over time, and the value of supporting and empowering team members for mutual success.

Throughout, they share personal experiences and insights on effective leadership and organizational growth.

In this episode of the Refine Network podcast, hosts Evan and Chris discuss a day filled with technical challenges during a live webinar.

Despite thorough preparations, they faced unexpected video and audio failures that disrupted their session. The duo emphasizes servant leadership, effective problem-solving, and the importance of strong partnerships in overcoming obstacles.

They also touch on the practice of owning up to mistakes and making things right to maintain trust with their audience. The episode concludes with reflections on resilience and support in leadership roles.

Retail Rundown: Profit Booster or Resource Drain?

This episode of the Refine Network podcast tackles the controversial topic of how retail can significantly support and grow salon businesses. Despite the sarcasm about the relevance of selling products directly in salons, especially with readily available alternatives like Sephora or Ulta, the conversation dives deep into the reasons and benefits of incorporating retail into salon offerings.

Evan and Christopher discuss real examples, emphasizing the importance of knowing your business numbers and how a structured retail strategy can contribute to a salon's profit margins and client satisfaction. They highlight the necessity of product support from brands, how to ensure customer uptake through recommendations rather than forceful sales, and the psychological approach to selling that has proven successful in boosting retail sales.

Additionally, they touch on the importance of relationship building with suppliers and the transformative impact of targeted advertising on retail sales. By the end of the episode, the hosts underscore the value of retail in salons and invite listeners to reach out for further discussion and support.

00:00 Welcome and Controversial Topic Teaser
00:36 The Surprising Benefits of Retail in Salons
01:17 Deep Dive into Retail Strategies and Support
10:11 The Importance of Product Recommendations and Client Education
20:45 Innovative Retail Boosting Strategies and Personal Growth
26:55 Concluding Thoughts and Contact Information

Discussing the importance of luxury customer service in the salon industry, emphasizing the impact of personalized care, culture, and awareness on the overall experience. It highlights the role of the right people and culture over material amenities in creating a luxury customer service experience.

In this episode of "The Refined Network Podcast," Evan and Christopher reflect on their recent experiences at the L’ANZA big event, where they launched the Refined Network. They discuss the unique approach of their coaching company, emphasizing their ability to tailor their services to the specific needs of salon owners without imposing a one-size-fits-all solution.

They also announce the launch of their Salon Leader Retreats and the Refined Artist Academy training program. Throughout the episode, they express gratitude for the support they've received and their commitment to helping salon owners succeed. www.therefinednetwork.com

Get ready for a great conversation as Evan and Erin dive into the exhilarating world of working with your spouse in a salon business. 

Join us as we spill the tea on starting the conversation with salon owners, share our heartfelt story of love and business, and reveal the secrets to maintaining a harmonious balance between personal and professional lives. 

Buckle up and get ready to laugh, learn, and be inspired!