word. with Gordon Miller

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!

As a follow-up to a recent episode featuring Debra Neill (Neill Education and Serious Business conference) and our talk about the big picture of where events may be headed, this week I dig deep into the power of conferences - and what makes great ones stand out. In my opinion, the conference space is where we have the biggest opportunity to create added value to our larger industry. Listen in for more.

I've been thinking a lot about this year and the pro beauty industry and what it all might means for the longer term - which led me to look instead at what's ahead in the next few years for salons and pros- across business models, best practices, and more. Thanks to all who make time to listen regularly, it means the world to me. Wishing all a great holiday season and a most amazing 2025!

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.

The evolution of events (of all kinds) is an important topic given their significant role in our industry. Debra Neill is CEO of Neill, an iconic, educationally focused family-owned organization. Not your traditional chief executive officer, Debra is known as Chief Energy Officer, a fitting title given her genuine passion and positive energy around our industry and its future. Check out Neill's iconic Serious Business conference (1/11-12, New Orleans) at seriousbusiness.net.

The pro salon industry talks a LOT about the "6 figure hairdresser" but rarely with clarity about what it takes to get there. In today's episode, I share my lessons learned from Antony Whitaker's Grow My Salon Business podcast (Episode 267). Antony interviews guest Maxwell Snow, a color specialist at Atlanta's Van Michael Salon who is among the top-earning hairdressers working behind the chair in the USA. I share my notes from this inspired conversation digging into the practices and beliefs that have led to Maxwell's tremendous success (one that does NOT include a social media following). Be sure to listen to Antony's conversation with Maxwell on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or YouTube (search for Grown My Salon Business podcast).

Words are so powerful! They can inform, inspire, and/or elevate- or they can confuse, crush and/or diminish. In this episode, I share context around the powerful 'labels' we attach to most individuals who work behind the chair, in classrooms, or on stages. Today we often refer to all who are licensed as Artists and Professionals; and all who are self-employed as Entrepreneurs. Listen in for my take on all of this and more.

My quick take on the "work less to make more" conversation I see going on across the industry - too often without the proper context from which individuals can make the best decision for their unique life and career circumstances. This may be a bit contrarian for some but it's just my honest take - shared hoping to offer more context for those looking for solutions.