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In this follow-up to "Why Suite and Booth Renters Struggle" [EP:214], Todd and Jen shift the focus to the other side of the industry—commission salons and their employees.

They break down the common mistakes made by both owners and stylists, from leadership gaps and undefined standards to entitlement, lack of systems, and poor communication.

This episode isn’t about choosing sides—it’s about building better businesses and careers. Whether you’re a salon owner or an employee, this conversation will help you understand what drives success, what kills culture, and how to fix it.

Episode Timestamps

• [00:00] – Opening banter + setting up Part 2
• [02:00] – Every model can work (rent, suite, commission) — if structured right
• [03:00] – Opening takes: staying inspired & checking your circle
• [08:00] – Taking care of yourself: how energy impacts creativity and leadership
• [09:00] – The #1 thing owners get wrong: thinking it’s “about the hair”
• [11:00] – Why technical skill doesn’t equal business success
• [13:00] – Business = problem solving, not perfection
• [15:00] – Systems, metrics, and the trap of “winging it”
• [17:00] – Defining standards vs. assuming “common sense”
• [19:00] – Acting like a boss vs. leading like a leader
• [22:00] – How standards and accountability shape culture
• [25:00] – Freedom with responsibility — how Hello Hair Co. structures autonomy
• [27:00] – Communication mistakes: avoiding hard conversations
• [29:00] – How small unresolved issues destroy culture
• [30:00] – Gossip vs. problem solving
• [31:00] – Owners don’t have to know everything — they need a team
• [32:00] – Transparency and compensation clarity
• [33:00] – Creating real compensation packages vs. “percentages”
• [35:00] – Why “100% commission” isn’t realistic
• [36:00] – Hiring for fit over skill
• [38:00] – The danger of keeping a high earner who’s a poor culture fit
• [40:00] – Why stylists stay in the wrong salon
• [41:00] – Owner vs. employee marketing: who’s responsible for what
• [42:00] – The myth of social media growth and vanity metrics
• [43:00] – Defining growth opportunities and transparency
• [44:00] – Closing recap + Part 3 tease

Key Takeaways

• Every model — booth rent, suite, or commission — can work if structured and led correctly.
• Being great at hair doesn’t mean you’re ready to run a business.
• Owners need to lead, not boss — define standards, document systems, and communicate often.
• Freedom only works when it comes with responsibility.
• Employees must take ownership of their professionalism, communication, and problem-solving.
• Culture is built through leadership consistency — not slogans.
• Clarity around pay, growth, and performance metrics is non-negotiable.
• Transparency and accountability are what create long-term success.

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