Beyond The Technique Podcast

In this powerful conversation, Kati sits down with third-generation cosmetologist and multi-location salon owner Rachel Thomas to unpack the real gap between salon owners and stylists—and why so many businesses struggle to become truly profitable. Rachel shares her raw journey through personal loss, financial hardship, and a near-death experience that forced her to rebuild her salon and her life with intention. Rachel challenges common industry beliefs about commission, rental, and hybrid models while exploring what it takes to create a high-ticket, high-margin salon built for longevity. Rachel reveals how mindset, KPIs, and luxury service positioning transformed her business and led her into coaching other owners through BYOB. This episode is a wake-up call for leaders ready to stop surviving and start building a salon that creates real wealth, opportunity, and freedom. WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtu.be/MToHXLR4sIw   GET MY BOOK! From First Date to Forever; How to Market Like A Matchmaker: https://joinmya.com/from-first-date-to-forever-book    POWERED BY:  JOIN mya! joinmya.com   FOLLOW RACHEL PAIGE! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rachelpaigexo/    LET'S CONNECT! BTT Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beyondthetechnique MYA Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/join_mya/    FOLLOW KATI WHITLEDGE Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katiwhitledge/ Get my favorite bio-hacking products: CLICK HERE   SPONSORS Join the PBA: https://www.probeauty.org/

There's hidden cost to making assumptions. Today, you'll hear how making assumptions will literally cost you financially, it will cost you time and resources, and it will cost you trust and relationships. Your host, Kati Whitledge, shares real examples of how assumptions fail us and what key principles we can apply to our leadership, communication and business practices to ensure we have great outcomes and the team feels everyone is on the same page. Please share today's episode with industry leaders you work with and enjoy! WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtu.be/mnd5BaCSL5U   GET MY BOOK! From First Date to Forever; How to Market Like A Matchmaker: https://joinmya.com/from-first-date-to-forever-book    POWERED BY:  JOIN mya! joinmya.com   LET'S CONNECT! BTT Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beyondthetechnique MYA Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/join_mya/    FOLLOW KATI WHITLEDGE Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katiwhitledge/ Get my favorite bio-hacking products: CLICK HERE   SPONSORS Join the PBA: https://www.probeauty.org/

In this episode, salon owner Jenny Jacome shares her honest journey of building a business that reflects her values, even when it meant making difficult decisions and standing firm in her vision. From navigating partnerships and hybrid salon models to launching a culture built on education and collaboration, Jenny reveals what she learned about leadership, boundaries, and trusting her instincts. She explains why clear agreements, structured onboarding, and unapologetic standards are essential for building a strong, aligned team. This conversation challenges owners to stop bending to every demand and instead design the salon they truly want to lead. If you've ever questioned whether you're allowed to stand your ground as a business owner, this episode will give you the confidence to do exactly that.   WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtu.be/106t0rUFiXQ   GET MY BOOK! From First Date to Forever; How to Market Like A Matchmaker: https://joinmya.com/from-first-date-to-forever-book    POWERED BY:  JOIN mya! joinmya.com   FOLLOW JENNY JACOME Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jenny_theartistcollectivesalon/    LET'S CONNECT! BTT Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beyondthetechnique MYA Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/join_mya/    FOLLOW KATI WHITLEDGE Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katiwhitledge/ Get my favorite bio-hacking products: CLICK HERE   SPONSORS Join the PBA: https://www.probeauty.org/

In this episode, Kati challenges leaders to start building environments and relationships that raise their standards. She explains why goals may get you started, but standards are what actually shape your daily decisions and long-term results. You'll learn how surrounding yourself with high performers can accelerate your growth, sharpen your thinking, and create a healthy pressure to execute at a higher level. Kati shares powerful stories about mentorship, proximity, and why one right relationship can collapse time and multiply opportunity. If you're serious about growing faster, building smarter teams, and becoming the kind of leader high performers want to follow, this episode will raise the bar for how you think, choose, and lead. WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtu.be/ocHrdaOkEjI   GET MY BOOK! From First Date to Forever; How to Market Like A Matchmaker: https://joinmya.com/from-first-date-to-forever-book    POWERED BY:  JOIN mya! joinmya.com   LET'S CONNECT! BTT Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beyondthetechnique MYA Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/join_mya/    FOLLOW KATI WHITLEDGE Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katiwhitledge/ Get my favorite bio-hacking products: CLICK HERE   SPONSORS Join the PBA: https://www.probeauty.org/

Salon and spa leaders, this episode explores what the 2026 Hybrid Salon really looks like and why so many owners are rethinking traditional commission-only models. Michelle shares her real journey of evolving from a large employee-based salon to a thriving hybrid space that blends commission stylists with renters — while protecting culture, standards, and education. You'll hear practical strategies for hiring, onboarding, pricing rent, and managing shared logistics so hybrid models feel collaborative instead of chaotic. The conversation breaks down how transparency, mentorship, and structured systems create opportunity for stylists without sacrificing leadership or brand identity. If you're wondering how to future-proof your salon, attract high performers, and design a model that gives both owners and providers more freedom, this episode gives you a clear blueprint. WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtu.be/2lnJwJXLNJs   GET MY BOOK! From First Date to Forever; How to Market Like A Matchmaker: https://joinmya.com/from-first-date-to-forever-book    POWERED BY:  JOIN mya! joinmya.com   FOLLOW MICHELLE SENOUR Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beautyby_michellesenour/    LET'S CONNECT! BTT Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beyondthetechnique MYA Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/join_mya/    FOLLOW KATI WHITLEDGE Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katiwhitledge/ Get my favorite bio-hacking products: CLICK HERE   SPONSORS Join the PBA: https://www.probeauty.org/

In this powerful episode, Kati challenges leaders to get radically clear about what they actually want, and why clarity is the first step to creating the life they've always imagined. She explains how your brain's reticular activating system works, why your environment and media consumption matter, and how visualization and identity shifts accelerate real change. Kati shares her personal story of transformation, revealing why lasting results don't come from quick fixes, but from deciding who you are and showing up as that person daily. If you're ready to stop starting over, set better boundaries, and finally follow through long enough to see real results, this episode will reset how you think about goals, growth, and perseverance. WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtu.be/rDJf0xIummQ   GET MY BOOK! From First Date to Forever; How to Market Like A Matchmaker: https://joinmya.com/from-first-date-to-forever-book    POWERED BY:  JOIN mya! joinmya.com   LET'S CONNECT! BTT Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beyondthetechnique MYA Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/join_mya/    FOLLOW KATI WHITLEDGE Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katiwhitledge/ Get my favorite bio-hacking products: CLICK HERE   SPONSORS Join the PBA: https://www.probeauty.org/

Today we sit down with Allison Moncheck—award-winning hairstylist, educator, and owner of Unorthodox Salon—to unpack what it really means to build a career by doing things differently. Allison shares her unconventional journey from teenage cosmetologist to school counselor and back into the salon world, ultimately building a thriving business that prioritizes people over polish. You'll hear how she grew from a two-chair "baby salon" into a multi-chair concept, launched a suite rental model, and created a viral Head Spa experience—all while staying true to her values. As a self-described introvert, Allison opens up about stepping outside her comfort zone, building a strong team culture, and defining success without comparing herself to others on social media. This episode is a must-listen for salon owners and stylists who want permission—and practical inspiration—to build a business that's truly their own. WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtu.be/SYbj8Xww4DI   GET MY BOOK! From First Date to Forever; How to Market Like A Matchmaker: https://joinmya.com/from-first-date-to-forever-book    POWERED BY:  JOIN mya! joinmya.com   FOLLOW ALLISON MONCHECK Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theunorthodoxstylist/    LET'S CONNECT! BTT Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beyondthetechnique MYA Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/join_mya/    FOLLOW KATI WHITLEDGE Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katiwhitledge/ Get my favorite bio-hacking products: CLICK HERE   SPONSORS Join the PBA: https://www.probeauty.org/

In this episode, your host Kati Whitledge breaks down why client retention is the real growth engine for salon owners—and how increasing retention by just 5% can boost profitability by up to 95%. She explains why repeat guests spend more, stay longer, and why the second visit is the true tipping point for loyalty. Kati shares practical strategies to improve rebooking, follow-up, and client engagement using smarter systems and more personal communication. She also reveals how better client-provider matching (instead of "swipe-style" booking) dramatically improves long-term results, including real-world success stories. If you want fuller books, stronger relationships, and more predictable revenue, this episode gives you a clear, simple game plan. WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtu.be/oRNOcyJ2xC4   GET MY BOOK! From First Date to Forever; How to Market Like A Matchmaker: https://joinmya.com/from-first-date-to-forever-book    POWERED BY:  JOIN mya! joinmya.com   LET'S CONNECT! BTT Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beyondthetechnique MYA Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/join_mya/    FOLLOW KATI WHITLEDGE Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katiwhitledge/ Get my favorite bio-hacking products: CLICK HERE   SPONSORS Join the PBA: https://www.probeauty.org/

Celebrity Hairstylist and Salon Owner, Traci Barrett joins Beyond the Technique to share her powerful journey from answering phones in a corporate salon to becoming a renowned hair artist in LA—and ultimately building a purpose-driven salon in Phoenix. In this episode, Traci and Kati dive into rethinking the traditional salon model, from commission structures and team-based environments to eliminating fear-based leadership and non-compete culture. Traci reveals how her personal life challenges reshaped her vision and led her to build a salon rooted in mentorship, education, sustainability, and service. You'll learn how she's creating a new standard through a structured education pathway, inclusive hair design, and a hospitality-inspired client experience, including her innovative focus on scalp care and Head Spa services. If you're a salon owner or leader who wants to build a modern, values-driven, and team-centered business that actually works, this episode will expand how you think about the future of our industry. WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtu.be/xRVcir54p_0   GET MY BOOK! From First Date to Forever; How to Market Like A Matchmaker: https://joinmya.com/from-first-date-to-forever-book    POWERED BY:  JOIN mya! joinmya.com   FOLLOW TRACI BARRETT Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tracibarrett/    LET'S CONNECT! BTT Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beyondthetechnique MYA Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/join_mya/    FOLLOW KATI WHITLEDGE Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katiwhitledge/ Get my favorite bio-hacking products: CLICK HERE   SPONSORS Join the PBA: https://www.probeauty.org/

In this episode, your host Kati Whitledge challenges salon and spa owners to rethink how they make decisions in a world full of distractions, pressure, and decision fatigue. She breaks down what "smart decisions" really mean—choices that align with your purpose, passion, and business objectives, and why every decision may not deserve your energy. You'll learn how to slow down impulsive reactions, focus on what truly moves the business forward, and empower your leaders to own decisions in their areas of responsibility. Kati shares a simple but powerful four-question framework you can use for everything from hiring to new services and product offerings. If you want clearer thinking, better leadership, and more confident decisions that actually drive results, this episode is for you. WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtu.be/bi20OMbLgaU   GET MY BOOK! From First Date to Forever; How to Market Like A Matchmaker: https://joinmya.com/from-first-date-to-forever-book    POWERED BY:  JOIN mya! joinmya.com   LET'S CONNECT! BTT Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beyondthetechnique MYA Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/join_mya/    FOLLOW KATI WHITLEDGE Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katiwhitledge/ Get my favorite bio-hacking products: CLICK HERE   SPONSORS Join the PBA: https://www.probeauty.org/

In this episode, Kati sits down with Terra Harvell to talk about what it really means to build a salon you can actually walk away from—and why most salons are never truly sellable. Terra shares her journey from behind-the-chair to building scalable systems, including the hard lessons that led her to rethink commission models, leadership, and profitability. They unpack the concept of salon "roll-ups," exit strategies, and how to increase enterprise value instead of creating another job for yourself. You'll learn why only 2 out of 10 salons ever sell, and what needs to change if you want your business to be one of them. If you're a salon owner who wants freedom, options, and a business that works without you, this conversation will challenge and inspire you to think bigger. WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtu.be/We3y_jtcAI0   GET MY BOOK! From First Date to Forever; How to Market Like A Matchmaker: https://joinmya.com/from-first-date-to-forever-book    POWERED BY:  JOIN mya! joinmya.com   FOLLOW TERRA HARVELL Website: All the Things Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theterraharvell/    LET'S CONNECT! BTT Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beyondthetechnique MYA Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/join_mya/    FOLLOW KATI WHITLEDGE Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katiwhitledge/ Get my favorite bio-hacking products: CLICK HERE   SPONSORS Join the PBA: https://www.probeauty.org/

In this episode, your host Kati Whitledge explores the powerful and often misunderstood difference between self-confidence and pride—and why both can quietly shape the way you lead, grow, and relate to others. She explains how real confidence is built on competence, truth, and humility, while pride is usually rooted in insecurity, image, and the need to protect ego. You'll learn the subtle behaviors that reveal when pride is creeping in, especially for high performers and fast-growing leaders, and how defensiveness can be an early warning sign. Kati shares practical, honest strategies for staying grounded, receiving feedback, and approaching others with both truth and respect. This conversation will challenge you to build "humble confidence" so your results, character, and relationships can all grow together. WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtu.be/p6owNN6Rzzk   GET MY BOOK! From First Date to Forever; How to Market Like A Matchmaker: https://joinmya.com/from-first-date-to-forever-book    POWERED BY:  JOIN mya! joinmya.com LET'S CONNECT! BTT Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beyondthetechnique MYA Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/join_mya/    FOLLOW KATI WHITLEDGE Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katiwhitledge/ Get my favorite bio-hacking products: CLICK HERE   SPONSORS Join the PBA: https://www.probeauty.org/

In today's episode, Kati sits down with Blake Reed Evans to explore what modern leadership really looks like in today's salon environment. Blake shares his journey from associate stylist to shareholder and salon owner, and how mentorship, education, and a clear growth path shaped his success. Blake breaks down a new model of salon ownership, team development, and why flexible schedules and evolving benefits are essential to attract and retain top talent. You'll hear how Blake's salon balances high standards with a supportive culture, adapts to generational shifts, and creates long-term stability for both owners and team members. This conversation is a must-listen for salon owners and leaders who want to build a sustainable business, grow future leaders, and elevate the team experience. WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtu.be/6BOqa2ncsQY   GET MY BOOK! From First Date to Forever; How to Market Like A Matchmaker: https://joinmya.com/from-first-date-to-forever-book    POWERED BY:  JOIN mya! joinmya.com   FOLLOW BLAKE REED EVANS Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blakereedevans/  TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@blakereedevans    LET'S CONNECT! BTT Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beyondthetechnique MYA Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/join_mya/    FOLLOW KATI WHITLEDGE Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katiwhitledge/ Get my favorite bio-hacking products: CLICK HERE   SPONSORS Join the PBA: https://www.probeauty.org/

Resilience isn't about avoiding stress, it's about learning how to adapt, endure, and grow stronger through every season of business. In this episode, Kati breaks down the four inevitable seasons salon and spa owners face—growth, steadiness, decline, and drought—and explains why waiting for a "stress-free" season is a trap. You'll learn how resilient leaders stay disciplined, protect their identity, and make clear decisions without letting fear or emotion drive permanent choices. This conversation will challenge you to see pressure as preparation and lead yourself and your team forward with clarity, ownership, and hope—no matter the season you're in.   GET MY BOOK! From First Date to Forever; How to Market Like A Matchmaker: https://joinmya.com/from-first-date-to-forever-book    POWERED BY:  JOIN mya! joinmya.com   LET'S CONNECT! BTT Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beyondthetechnique MYA Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/join_mya/    FOLLOW KATI WHITLEDGE Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katiwhitledge/ Get my favorite bio-hacking products: CLICK HERE   SPONSORS Join the PBA: https://www.probeauty.org/

In today's episode behavior strategist, Jay Williams introduces his powerful "fast leadership" framework, breaking leadership down into three deceptively simple pillars: agreements, accountability, and alignment. He reveals why most leaders fail at holding people accountable, the critical difference between expectations and agreements, and how emotional intelligence elevates every conversation. Tune in to learn how to simplify your leadership approach, strengthen your team, and access the tools Jay recommends to accelerate your growth. WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtu.be/sk5RtRgvWoA   GET MY BOOK! From First Date to Forever; How to Market Like A Matchmaker: https://joinmya.com/from-first-date-to-forever-book    POWERED BY:  JOIN mya! joinmya.com   FOLLOW JAY WILLIAMS Website: https://thejwco.com/  Previous Podcasts We've Done: https://joinmya.com/hs-search-results?searchType=podcasts&groupId=88608771168&term=jay+williams    LET'S CONNECT! BTT Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beyondthetechnique MYA Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/join_mya/    FOLLOW KATI WHITLEDGE Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katiwhitledge/ Get my favorite bio-hacking products: CLICK HERE   SPONSORS Join the PBA: https://www.probeauty.org/

Building a thriving salon or spa starts with one powerful foundation: community. In this episode, Kati Whitledge unpacks why human connection is not just a "nice to have," but a biological, psychological, and business necessity for growth, retention, and long-term success. You'll learn why team members leave when they don't feel ownership or belonging—and how simple, intentional actions can dramatically strengthen loyalty, culture, and performance. If you want a salon where people stay, grow, and thrive together, this conversation will challenge you to lead community on purpose. WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtu.be/ZGeI5TF4m3o   GET MY BOOK! From First Date to Forever; How to Market Like A Matchmaker: https://joinmya.com/from-first-date-to-forever-book    POWERED BY:  JOIN mya! joinmya.com   LET'S CONNECT! BTT Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beyondthetechnique MYA Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/join_mya/    FOLLOW KATI WHITLEDGE Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katiwhitledge/ Get my favorite bio-hacking products: CLICK HERE   SPONSORS Join the PBA: https://www.probeauty.org/

Discover the marketing trends you cannot afford to ignore as Kati sits down with industry marketing expert Kayla Morgan, who shares the digital strategies driving real revenue for salons and spas right now. In this episode, you'll learn why Meta ads must stay on, how geo-targeting and best-practice offers boost bookings, and which visuals consistently outperform in today's crowded feed. Kayla also reveals the rising role of AI—from virtual reception to SEO support—and why blogs are still essential for local search dominance in 2026 and beyond. Together, they unpack how to budget for marketing, track ROI, and refresh your online presence to stay competitive. If you're ready to elevate your brand visibility, attract new guests, and future-proof your marketing strategy, this is the episode you won't want to miss. WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtu.be/bep3a54Hm1g   GET MY BOOK! From First Date to Forever; How to Market Like A Matchmaker: https://joinmya.com/from-first-date-to-forever-book    POWERED BY:  JOIN mya! joinmya.com   FOLLOW IMAGINAL MARKETING Website: https://imaginalmarketing.com/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/immarketing/  Email: hello@immarketinggroup.com    LET'S CONNECT! BTT Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beyondthetechnique MYA Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/join_mya/    FOLLOW KATI WHITLEDGE Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katiwhitledge/ Get my favorite bio-hacking products: CLICK HERE   SPONSORS Join the PBA: https://www.probeauty.org/

Today, Kati reveals how our deepest pains personally, professionally, and emotionally, can become the very fuel that ignites our greatest leadership breakthroughs. She shares her own journey from childhood hardship and unhealthy patterns to strength, identity transformation, and purpose, proving that pain isn't punishment, it's preparation. Salon and spa owners will learn how to reframe setbacks as signals for innovation, stronger systems, healthier cultures, and more impactful client care. You'll finish this episode inspired to turn your hardest experiences into leadership mastery and to help your team do the same. WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtu.be/zgeuEOysqpo   GET MY BOOK! From First Date to Forever; How to Market Like A Matchmaker: https://joinmya.com/from-first-date-to-forever-book    POWERED BY:  JOIN mya! joinmya.com   LET'S CONNECT! BTT Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beyondthetechnique MYA Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/join_mya/    FOLLOW KATI WHITLEDGE Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katiwhitledge/ Get my favorite bio-hacking products: CLICK HERE   SPONSORS Join the PBA: https://www.probeauty.org/

Today we sat down with financial expert, Mel Abraham, to help salon owners redefine what it means to be truly free. Mel shares his deeply personal journey from leaving corporate life without a plan, to rebuilding the life of his dreams after cancer, to creating his signature "money machine" that generates income outside your business. Together, they talk about how to embrace present joy while building a secure future. Mel teaches that discipline doesn't mean deprivation. You'll learn why financial freedom isn't about hitting a number, but rather it's about creating choices, aligning money with your values, and living the life you love while you build it.  WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtu.be/_ebqH9DtP-E   GET MY BOOK! From First Date to Forever; How to Market Like A Matchmaker: https://joinmya.com/from-first-date-to-forever-book    POWERED BY:  JOIN mya! joinmya.com   FOLLOW MEL ABRAHAM Website: https://melabraham.com/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melabraham9/  GET HIS BOOK: https://www.melabrahamtraining.com/your-money-machine-book-eg    LET'S CONNECT! BTT Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beyondthetechnique MYA Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/join_mya/    FOLLOW KATI WHITLEDGE Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katiwhitledge/ Get my favorite bio-hacking products: CLICK HERE   SPONSORS Join the PBA: https://www.probeauty.org/

Start the year with a mission that moves you. In this powerful conversation, Kati uncovers how the military defines "mission" and shows salon and spa owners how adopting that level of clarity, purpose, and direction can transform their business in 2026. You'll learn why revisiting and rewriting your mission each year fuels innovation, deeper team alignment, stronger culture, and measurable growth. Walk away inspired to update your mission with bold intentions so every decision, action, and outcome this year supports your biggest impact yet. WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtu.be/JFBwGCgA354   GET MY BOOK! From First Date to Forever; How to Market Like A Matchmaker: https://joinmya.com/from-first-date-to-forever-book    POWERED BY:  JOIN mya! joinmya.com LET'S CONNECT! BTT Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beyondthetechnique MYA Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/join_mya/    FOLLOW KATI WHITLEDGE Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katiwhitledge/ Get my favorite bio-hacking products: CLICK HERE   SPONSORS Join the PBA: https://www.probeauty.org/