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Beyond The Technique Podcast

Beyond The Technique Podcast
Author: Kati Whitledge
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© 2024 Kati Whitledge
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Welcome to the Beyond The Technique podcast with Kati Whitledge. We exist to support beauty & wellness pros and your growing team and business. We believe it's what you do beyond the technical aspects of your craft that will bring substantial success. We promise to bring you the most forward-thinking industry topics to help you consistently grow and develop yourself and your business.
383 Episodes
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Distractions don’t just steal your time, they drain your energy, creativity, and focus. In this episode, Kati shares her personal journey with ADHD, biohacking, and the power of reducing decision fatigue to stay in flow. You’ll discover practical strategies to automate routines, set boundaries, and manage technology so you can protect your energy and productivity. Whether you’re a salon owner or creative professional, this conversation will help you eliminate overwhelm and master focus for lasting success. WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtu.be/SlGz55I_PPI 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 KATI WHITLEDGE Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katiwhitledge/ Get my favorite bio-hacking products: CLICK HERE LET’S CONNECT! BTT Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beyondthetechnique MYA Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/join_mya/ SPONSORS Join the PBA: https://www.probeauty.org/
In this episode, Kati welcomes industry coach and mentor, Misty Jane to share her bold perspective on money in the beauty industry. Misty reveals how she paid off $48,000 of debt in just two years, opening the door to a debt-free salon career and her current passion for coaching stylists. Together, they explore the deeper psychological roots of financial struggles, why income alone won’t save you, and how giving money a purpose leads to true freedom. Listen today for fresh insights, real strategies, and encouragement to pursue financial wellness as a form of self-care. WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtu.be/n5D5qBzjOZU 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 MISTY JANE! Website: https://mistyjayne.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_mistyjayne_/ 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 shares how working with Brad Sugars and his ActionCoach franchise helped her achieve an 878% profit increase and a million-dollar revenue in a very small salon space. She dives into practical strategies to fix financial challenges, from boosting revenue through pre-selling gift cards, packages, and memberships to cutting unnecessary expenses without hurting the guest experience. You’ll also learn how tools like mya’s matchmaking software and dashboard can improve client retention and scheduling efficiency. Tune in for simple, actionable steps to protect your salon’s financial health and grow profits with confidence. WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtu.be/lYoY8umy4SQ 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 KATI WHITLEDGE Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katiwhitledge/ Get my favorite bio-hacking products: CLICK HERE LET’S CONNECT! BTT Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beyondthetechnique MYA Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/join_mya/ SPONSORS Join the PBA: https://www.probeauty.org/
What does it take to build a beauty brand that truly empowers stylists? In this episode, Kati sits down with Tiffany Loe, founder of Christian Michael Hair Extensions, to talk about her journey from starving actress to single mom, to now thriving salon owner leading a multi-method hair extension company. Tiffany shares how she bridged the gap between luxury extensions and full-circle education, helping thousands of stylists gain confidence and new opportunities. Together, they explore salon growth, ethical hair sourcing, and Tiffany’s mission to build hub salons that empower stylists nationwide. WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtu.be/Ygg2ba6bcEQ 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 TIFFANY LOE! Website: https://www.christianmichaelhairextensions.com/ Tiffany’s IG: https://www.instagram.com/tiffanyloe/ Christian Michael Hair Extensions: https://www.instagram.com/christianmichaelhairextensions/ 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 uncovers the warning signs that a stylist may be leaving your salon and why addressing issues head-on is essential for a healthy team. She shares insights on managing growth as salons expand, including how shifting mindsets can affect culture. Kati also opens up about balancing directness with kindness in difficult conversations, offering practical ways to lead with courage and compassion. Listeners will walk away with strategies to strengthen team dynamics, honor professional boundaries, and focus on the stylists who are truly committed. WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtu.be/xvrJeUh_Mkw 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 KATI WHITLEDGE Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katiwhitledge/ Get my favorite bio-hacking products: CLICK HERE LET’S CONNECT! BTT Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beyondthetechnique MYA Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/join_mya/ SPONSORS Join the PBA: https://www.probeauty.org/
This episode is a must-listen for Salon Owners who want to take control of their financial future. Guest expert Kristin Stutz, a former Stylist and Salon Owner turned certified financial planner, shares how she helps owners connect the dots between business and personal finances. You’ll discover strategies for overcoming financial fears, building wealth with intention, and planning for both growth and eventual exit. Packed with real stories and actionable tips, this conversation will empower you to make confident, informed financial decisions for your life and salon. WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtu.be/D8uk8yYiZgE 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 KRISTIN STUTZ Website: https://www.illumefs.com/ Meet with Kristin: https://calendly.com/kstutz/discovery-session?month=2025-09 LinkedIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristin-stutz-cfp%C2%AE-052a226b/ LET’S CONNECT! BTT Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beyondthetechnique MYA Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/join_mya/ SPONSORS Join the PBA: https://www.probeauty.org/
The meeting after the meeting is the most important piece of the puzzle. In this episode, Kati pulls back the curtain on how her companies plan meetings and the meeting after the meeting. She shares her salon’s meeting structure—from daily GM check-ins to monthly gatherings that mix in professional development and celebration. You’ll hear smart strategies for debriefs, team collaboration, and even how to handle sensitive topics with ease. Plus, she shares fun anniversary promotions and simple tools that keep the whole team inspired, organized, and thriving. WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtu.be/cb8DlD-GRmU 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 KATI WHITLEDGE Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katiwhitledge/ LET’S CONNECT! BTT Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beyondthetechnique MYA Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/join_mya/ SPONSORS Join the PBA: https://www.probeauty.org/
This week on Beyond The Technique, Kati sits down with industry legend and Paul Mitchell Artistic Director, Stephen Moody, to explore what Gen Z stylists truly need to thrive. From shifting trends in hairdressing to the timeless power of consultation and communication, Stephen shares insights gained from a career shaped by Sassoon and fueled by a passion for education. You’ll hear why Gen Z clients crave authenticity, how stylists can balance creativity with financial success, and why the human connection in beauty can never be replaced by technology. Get ready for an inspiring conversation that bridges generations and reimagines the future of hairdressing. WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtu.be/f4ouJItyyWQ 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 STEPHEN MOODY Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hairmoody/ LET’S CONNECT! BTT Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beyondthetechnique MYA Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/join_mya/ SPONSORS Join the PBA: https://www.probeauty.org/
In this episode, we explore the powerful truth that nothing is ever as good—or as bad—as it seems, especially when we’re viewing someone else’s life or success from the outside. We dive into how to shift your mindset, stop living in emotional extremes, and break free from the trap of comparison. You’ll learn how to self-evaluate with wisdom, stay grounded in truth, and focus on thoughts that fuel your growth. If you're ready to stop chasing perfection and start building a life that’s authentically yours, this episode is for you. WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtu.be/bNQcrh3K8dg 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 KATI WHITLEDGE Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katiwhitledge/ LET’S CONNECT! BTT Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beyondthetechnique MYA Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/join_mya/ SPONSORS Join the PBA: https://www.probeauty.org/
From aspiring actor to Founder of Masters of Balayage, Ryan Weeden’s journey proves that passion and persistence can transform your career. In this episode, Ryan and Kati dive into the evolution of the hair industry—from fast-tracking behind the chair to building an education empire that now fills retreats and workshops nationwide. You’ll hear how Ryan carved out his niche, why mastering your craft matters more than titles, and what today’s salon owners must know to thrive beyond the influencer era. If you’re ready to be inspired by a story of reinvention, artistry, and entrepreneurship, this is one conversation you won’t want to miss. WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtu.be/eG_aGNtRZEw 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 MASTERS OF BALAYAGE Website: https://www.mastersofbalayage.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mastersofbalayage/ HERO RETREAT: https://www.mastersofbalayage.com/hero2025 LET’S CONNECT! BTT Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beyondthetechnique MYA Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/join_mya/ SPONSORS Join the PBA: https://www.probeauty.org/
Are you settling for less than you’re capable of in your health, relationships, or business? In this episode, Kati shares a powerful and personal journey of waking up to the areas of life where she had been settling—and how faith sparked the shift toward lasting transformation. From surrounding yourself with better influences to taking 100% ownership of your life, this conversation will challenge and encourage you to step into the life you truly desire. If you’re ready to stop playing small, this episode is your wake-up call. 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 KATI WHITLEDGE Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katiwhitledge/ LET’S CONNECT! BTT Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beyondthetechnique MYA Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/join_mya/ SPONSORS Join the PBA: https://www.probeauty.org/
What if your salon’s biggest competition isn’t another salon—but luxury experiences like concerts, festivals, and designer brands? In this episode Beauty Industry Expert, Tim Fisk joins us to unpack why salon owners must compete digitally for clients' attention and dollars. Tim dives into how important building trust with younger guests and mastering email and lead nurturing strategies is, so you can get and keep the next generation of consumers who spend the most on luxury hair services. He also shares his leadership journey within this industry and how he’s grown to be the best leader he can be for the new generation of hairstylists! WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtu.be/1L3uAAC43qc 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 TIM FISK + SUMMIT SALON BUSINESS CENTER Website: https://summitsalon.com/ Summit Online Courses: https://myportal.summitsalon.com/ Tim’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/timfiskis/ Summit’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/summitsalon/ LET’S CONNECT! BTT Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beyondthetechnique MYA Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/join_mya/ SPONSORS Join the PBA: https://www.probeauty.org/
Kati Whitledge opens up about the leadership lessons she learned as a fiercely loyal teen—and how those early experiences shaped the way she empowers women today. From standing up for her friends to navigating the complexities of female friendships, Kati shares how sisterhood, not competition, is the foundation of strong salon teams. She reflects on how sports, style, and spiritual growth have all influenced her approach to leading with love, grace, and conviction. If you believe in building a supportive culture where women cheer each other on, this episode is your reminder that being a "girl’s girl" is a leadership superpower. WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtu.be/xQeej-3leSQ 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 KATI WHITLEDGE Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katiwhitledge/ LET’S CONNECT! BTT Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beyondthetechnique MYA Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/join_mya/ SPONSORS Join the PBA: https://www.probeauty.org/
Today we sit down with celebrity stylist and industry mentor, Danielle Keasling to explore the Rise of the Fiercely Committed—a journey marked by bold pivots, personal growth, and unapologetic authenticity. Danielle shares how she transitioned from marine biology to mastering the art of hairstyling, building a career that spans high fashion, education, and now coaching. You’ll hear how she broke through gatekeeping in the beauty world, developed her own artistic voice, and now helps others do the same—without needing to sacrifice their values or relocate. From session styling to biohacking, this episode is a must-listen for any stylist or salon owner ready to rise, lead, and create on their own terms. WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtu.be/eB5vc1IKSA0 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 DANIELLE KEASLING Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/danielle.keasling/ Website: https://daniellekeasling.com/ LET’S CONNECT! BTT Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beyondthetechnique MYA Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/join_mya/ SPONSORS Join the PBA: https://www.probeauty.org/
In this episode, Kati shares a powerful 10-step framework inspired by Tony Robbins for making life-changing decisions that truly stick. You’ll learn how to get into a peak state first—because the quality of your decisions depends on your mindset and emotions when you make them. She’ll guide you through aligning decisions with your core values, your future identity, and every key area of your life, while using tools like the 10-10-10 method and the pain-pleasure principle to overcome short-term emotions. If you’re ready to burn the boats, back your choices with action, and become the person your next-level life requires—you don’t want to miss this! WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtu.be/2cOm8c_OiBQ 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 KATI WHITLEDGE Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katiwhitledge/ LET’S CONNECT! BTT Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beyondthetechnique MYA Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/join_mya/ SPONSORS Join the PBA: https://www.probeauty.org/
Kati welcomes Daniel Johnson, founder of the Green Beauty Community Foundation and The Salon Chair Guys, to share his powerful journey of community-building and sustainability in the beauty industry. From growing up in his father’s barbershop to developing eco-friendly solutions for salons, Daniel’s story is one of passion, purpose, and resilience. Together, they explore how beauty professionals can align with like-minded individuals, take the Green Pledge, and make a meaningful impact—one sustainable choice at a time. Get ready to be encouraged, empowered, and reminded that when the community leads, change follows. WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtu.be/DLZwMHyn6Fw 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 GREEN BEAUTY COMMUNITY Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/greenbeautycommunityfoundation/ Website: https://greenbeautycommunity.com/ LET’S CONNECT! BTT Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beyondthetechnique MYA Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/join_mya/ SPONSORS Join the PBA: https://www.probeauty.org/ Join the ‘Smarter Room’ Mastermind with Jay Williams! Click Here to Learn More: https://thejwco.com/a-smarter-room/
In this episode, Kati explores the irreplaceable human elements that make salon experiences truly magical. From authentic conversation and intuitive energy reading to mentorship and meaningful touch, she shares ten ways that AI will never replicate what happens between real people. You’ll be reminded why community, creativity, and emotional intelligence are the soul of the salon industry. If you’ve ever feared tech could take over—this episode proves the heart of your business is safe. WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtu.be/ZxCViFbSYSw 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 KATI WHITLEDGE Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katiwhitledge/ LET’S CONNECT! BTT Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beyondthetechnique MYA Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/join_mya/ SPONSORS Join the PBA: https://www.probeauty.org/ Join the ‘Smarter Room’ Mastermind with Jay Williams! Click Here to Learn More: https://thejwco.com/a-smarter-room/
What’s the difference between being internet-famous and being truly educated? In this episode, Kati sits down with globally renowned colorist, educator, and content creator Ashlee Norman to dive deep into the world of hair education—and the impact (both good and bad) that social media has had on the craft. Ashlee shares her incredible journey from Bumble and Bumble network educator to international platform artist, tool designer, and one of the most sought-after voices in dimensional color and modern cutting. Together, they explore why mastering fundamentals, critical thinking, and hands-on learning will always outperform viral trends—and how salon pros can spot the difference between real education and surface-level content. WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtu.be/q2IuFxZNAqI 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 ASHLEE NORMAN Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ashleenormanhair Website: https://www.ashleenormanhair.com/ LET’S CONNECT! BTT Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beyondthetechnique MYA Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/join_mya/ SPONSORS Join the PBA: https://www.probeauty.org/ Join the ‘Smarter Room’ Mastermind with Jay Williams! Click Here to Learn More: https://thejwco.com/a-smarter-room/
Today, Kati gets real about being judged at every stage of her transformation—from weighing over 250 pounds to becoming ultra fit and confident. She shares how judgment doesn’t disappear with success—it simply takes a different shape—and explores the double standards women often face in both business and beauty. Drawing from personal experience and biblical truth, Kati unpacks the difference between pride and humility, encouraging listeners to own their confidence without apology. If you’ve ever felt caught between criticism no matter what you do, this episode will remind you that you’re not alone—and that you were made for this moment in time. WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtu.be/kOA0adxJY74 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 KATI WHITLEDGE Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katiwhitledge/ LET’S CONNECT! BTT Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beyondthetechnique MYA Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/join_mya/ SPONSORS Join the PBA: https://www.probeauty.org/ Join the ‘Smarter Room’ Mastermind with Jay Williams! Click Here to Learn More: https://thejwco.com/a-smarter-room/
In today’s episode, Kati welcomes salon owner and stylist mentor Lexi Dawn, who shares her journey from Costa Rica to building a luxury booth-rental salon in Carmel, Indiana. Lexi reveals how she empowers stylists to serve without sacrificing, by setting boundaries, pricing with purpose, and staying confident in their value. She unpacks practical strategies for avoiding burnout, hiring support, and building a business model that prioritizes balance and beauty. Whether you're behind the chair or leading a team, this is a must-listen for salon pros ready to grow with clarity and confidence. WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtu.be/rmH9KEeHZlY 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 LEXI DAWN! Instagram: LET’S CONNECT! BTT Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beyondthetechnique MYA Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/join_mya/ SPONSORS Join the PBA: https://www.probeauty.org/ Join the ‘Smarter Room’ Mastermind with Jay Williams! Click Here to Learn More: https://thejwco.com/a-smarter-room/