Successful Stylist Academy

In this episode of the Successful Stylist Academy Podcast, Ambrosia Carey shares key insights from a recent conversation with the Meta and the Instagram team about what is actually working on Instagram right now. This episode breaks down practical social media strategies specifically for hairstylists and salon owners who want to grow their audience, attract better clients, and create content that performs consistently without burnout. Ambrosia discusses the shift from hashtags to keywords, how consistency trains the algorithm, and why Reels and Stories serve very different purposes in your content strategy. She also explains how engagement velocity impacts reach, why trial reels are an underrated feature, and how using Instagram's native tools can improve performance. This episode is designed for hairstylists and salon owners who want clear, realistic guidance on building a sustainable Instagram presence while staying authentic to their voice and brand. If you've ever felt overwhelmed by social media or unsure what actually matters anymore, this conversation will help simplify your approach and give you a strategic path forward. Join the SSA LAB Membership now! https://small-kiwi-98108.myflodesk.com/gnfbcgfrjq Get 2 months of GlossGenius Gold or Platnium for FREE use code SUCCESSFUL Key Takeaways   1. Instagram is shifting toward prioritizing keywords over hashtags, which means hairstylists and salon owners should clearly describe their services and specialties in captions so the algorithm understands who to show their content to. 2. Consistency in posting helps train the Instagram algorithm to recognize your niche and audience, and a predictable posting rhythm often performs better than sporadic bursts of content.    3. Reels are essential for discoverability and attracting new clients, while Stories are better suited for nurturing relationships with the audience you already have. 4. Engagement velocity plays an important role in reach, and responding quickly to comments signals to the algorithm that your content is creating meaningful conversations.  5. Trial reels provide a valuable opportunity to test new content ideas and formats before sharing them with your full audience. 6. Using Instagram's native tools such as text overlays, captions, audio, and in-app editing features can improve both content quality and overall reach. 7. Carousel posts remain a powerful format because they retain viewer attention longer and allow stylists to communicate educational and high-value content more clearly. 8. Content performs best when it answers real questions and solves real problems for your audience rather than simply following trends. 9. Authenticity and clarity in messaging are more effective long-term strategies than chasing viral trends that do not align with your brand. 10. Regularly reviewing your content performance allows hairstylists and salon owners to refine their social media strategy and make better decisions about what to create next. Show Notes In this episode Ambrosia shares insights from a direct conversation with the Meta and Instagram team about how the platform is evolving and what hairstylists need to understand in order to stay relevant and visible.  Listeners will learn why Instagram is becoming more keyword-driven, how posting consistency influences reach, and how stylists can simplify their content strategy without feeling overwhelmed. This conversation also covers the difference between Reels and Stories, the role of engagement and response time, and how using Instagram's built-in tools can improve results. This episode is especially helpful for hairstylists and salon owners who want to build a stronger online presence, attract ideal clients, and grow their business through intentional content creation. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Successful Stylist Academy Podcast 00:22 Insights from Meta and Instagram Team 04:14 Understanding Instagram's Algorithm and Content Strategy 08:14 The Importance of Consistency in Posting 12:51 Stories vs. Reels: Understanding Their Roles 17:40 Utilizing Instagram's Tools and Features 22:14 The Shift in Reels Length and Content Engagement 26:29 The Power of Keywords Over Hashtags  30:54 Engagement Strategies and Community Building 31:50 Find more on Instagram  Enjoy 15% off our favorite skincare line, Pharmagelm using code SSA15: https://pharmagel.net/?ref=SSA15 If you prefer video, we are on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@successfulstylist      

In this episode of the Successful Stylist Academy podcast, Ambrosia Carey dives into the real challenges beauty professionals face with social media marketing and the pressure to constantly create content. She explores the psychological burden of social media, how marketing psychology affects decision-making, and why relying solely on Instagram or TikTok can create instability in your beauty business. Ambrosia shares practical marketing strategies for sustainable business growth, emphasizing client retention, referral systems, and Google reviews as foundational drivers of salon success. She challenges listeners to rethink their approach to marketing and consider whether their business could thrive without social media dominating their strategy. If you're a stylist or salon owner looking to build a more grounded and profitable beauty business, this conversation will shift your perspective. Get 2 months of GlossGenius Gold or Platnium for FREE with code SUCCESSFUL: http://glossgenius.com/successfulstylist Enjoy our Marketing Guide Freebie: https://small-kiwi-98108.myflodesk.com/ke6k90nlq2 Join the SSA LAB Membership Waitlist here: https://small-kiwi-98108.myflodesk.com/gnfbcgfrjq Key Takeaways: 1. If social media disappeared tomorrow, would your beauty business still grow? 2. Many beauty professionals feel overwhelmed by the constant pressure of social media marketing. 3. Client referrals account for 62% of new clients, making relationship building essential. 4. Google reviews significantly impact client bookings and salon visibility. 5. Focusing on client retention creates more sustainable business growth than chasing new followers. 6. Social media should complement your marketing strategy, not control it. 7. Authentic content builds stronger engagement than perfection-driven posting. 8. Collaborative efforts and community support expand your reach without algorithm pressure. 9. Tracking key business metrics helps beauty professionals make informed decisions. 10. Long-term salon success comes from systems, referrals, and meaningful client relationships. Take 15% off our favorite skincare line, Pharmagel with code SSA15: https://pharmagel.net/?ref=SSA15 Find us on Instagram for more buisness tips: https://www.instagram.com/successfulstylistacademy/ If you prefer video: https://youtube.com/@successfulstylist?si=-GLeHybcbHMmkq0t  

In this episode of the Successful Stylist Academy, Ambrosia Carey explores the changing landscape of salon business models and what they mean for today's independent stylists and salon owners. From commission salons to rental suites, she breaks down how mentorship, operational confidence, and niche mastery shape long-term success in the beauty industry. The conversation highlights the power of supportive salon culture, intentional marketing strategies, and clear client growth systems that help stylists move beyond survival mode and into sustainable careers. Ambrosia shares practical insight on how to build confidence behind the chair while also understanding profit, pricing, and financial planning. This episode encourages beauty professionals to think critically about their business choices, personal goals, and the kind of life they want to design. If you missed the previous episdoe: What Goes into A Million Dollar Salon. This is the High Yeild Savings Account Ambrosia uses: https://www.marcus.com/share/AMB-9K4-NTGI Join the SSA LAB Waitlist here: https://small-kiwi-98108.myflodesk.com/gnfbcgfrjq Key Takeaways: 1. Independent suites and rental models are rapidly rising and reshaping salon business models. 2. The most successful stylists blend independence with strong mentorship and support systems. 3. Niche mastery builds confidence, clear branding, and more consistent clientele.   4. Marketing strategies should be intentional, simple, and focused on real client connection. 5. Operational confidence helps stylists understand profit instead of guessing at income. 6. A supportive salon culture increases career longevity and job satisfaction. 7. Life goals should guide which business model a stylist chooses. 8. Financial advice and investing are essential parts of long-term stylist success. 9. Transparency with clients strengthens loyalty and trust. 10. Sustainable growth comes from clarity, systems, and aligned decision making. Try out 2 month of GlossGenius Gold or Platinum free HERE: http://glossgenius.com/successfulstylist Take 15% off our favorite skincare line, Pharmagel with code SSA15: https://pharmagel.net/?ref=SSA15 Find us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/successfulstylistacademy/

Running a seven-figure salon sounds like the ultimate dream, but the business reality behind those numbers is rarely talked about. In this episode, Ambrosia Carey breaks down what seven-figure salon success actually looks like: from profit margins and salon costs to payroll, commissions, and the emotional well-being of the owner. She shares honest insight into salon management, financial planning, and entrepreneurship, revealing why higher revenue does not always equal more freedom. This conversation challenges the fantasy of rapid business growth and invites stylists and owners to redefine salon success in a way that protects both profit and personal peace. Our Business Membership, SSA LAB is about to open! Enter the Waitlist now: https://small-kiwi-98108.myflodesk.com/gnfbcgfrjq Get 2 months of GlossGenius Gold or Platinum on us linked here: http://glossgenius.com/successfulstylist Key Takeaways: 1. Building a seven-figure salon is impressive but comes with heavy responsibilities. 2. The fantasy of 7 figures often overlooks the reality of salon costs and overhead. 3. Profit margins for salons over a million dollars are typically single digits. 4. Success should not be tied solely to revenue; emotional well-being matters just as much. 5. Unexpected expenses can significantly impact true profitability. 6. It's important to plan for profit and account for every layer of financial planning. 7. More revenue often means more obligations, leadership demands, and stress. 8. Redefining success can lead to a healthier work-life balance and better entrepreneurship choices. 9. Don't romanticize million-dollar months without understanding the real margins. 10. Building a supportive team can help manage the complexities of seven-figure salon management. Get 15% off our favorite skincare line, Pharmagel using code SSA15: https://pharmagel.net/?ref=SSA15

In this episode of the Successful Stylist Academy podcast, Ambrosia Carey breaks down how client booking expectations are evolving in 2026. Learn how automation, transparency, personalization, and seamless systems can improve client trust, reduce no-shows, and create a modern booking experience that supports long-term salon growth. Get 50% off GlossGenius Gold or Platinum for 2 months with code SUCCESSFUL We are choosing 5 Reviewers for a Marketing Strategy call with Ambrosia. Leave your Review HERE. Key Take-aways: 1. Client expectations around booking have shifted dramatically, and stylists who haven't adapted are quietly losing bookings. 2. Today's clients expect access. A 24/7 online booking system isn't a luxury anymore, it's the baseline. If clients can't book when it's convenient for them, they'll move on quickly.  3. Automation plays a critical role in reducing no-shows and cancellations. Automated reminders and confirmations help protect your time while supporting clients with clear communication.  4. Every extra step in the booking process creates friction. Complicated forms, unclear instructions, or delayed responses can quietly erode trust, loyalty, and revenue.  5. Personalized follow-ups matter more than ever. Clients want to feel remembered and valued, and thoughtful touchpoints after booking can dramatically improve retention.  6. Transparency in pricing builds confidence. When clients clearly understand what they're booking and what it costs, it reduces hesitation and strengthens trust before they ever sit in your chair.  7. Clients are researching stylists before they book. Your website, booking flow, and online presence are part of the client experience long before the appointment happens.  8. Technology should support the human experience, not replace it. The most successful systems enhance connection, clarity, and ease rather than creating distance.  9. Offering clients options in how they communicate: whether through text, email, or booking platforms, creates a more inclusive and satisfying experience.  10. A seamless booking process doesn't just make life easier, it builds loyalty. When clients feel respected, informed, and supported, they're more likely to return and refer.  11. Understanding and adapting to modern client expectations is one of the most important skills for stylists who want to thrive in the evolving salon industry.  Get 15% off our favorite skincare line, Pharmagel with code SSA15: https://pharmagel.net/?ref=SSA15

In the fast-paced world of hairstyling, it's easy to feel stuck in "artist mode"...busy, talented, and booked, yet still overwhelmed and unsure how to scale. In this Successful Stylist Academy podcast breakdown, Ambrosia Carey shares how adopting a Salon CEO mindset can transform your income, schedule, and long-term business success without abandoning the artistry that made you fall in love with the industry. You'll learn why mindset is a direct driver of revenue, boundaries, and growth strategy, how the comfort-zone trap can keep even high-performing stylists stuck, and why creativity deserves structure. This episode is a powerful reminder that the next level of success doesn't come from doing more, it comes from thinking differently, building systems, and shifting your identity from service provider to strategic business leader.  Free Full Proof Profit Maker Webinar Here: https://small-kiwi-98108.myflodesk.com/ao7u0l0qzq Tap if you missed the 5% Client Retention Rule 1. Transitioning into a Salon CEO mindset is essential for long-term growth because your identity influences how you price, market, set boundaries, and lead your business strategy.   2. Staying in "artist mode" can feel safe and productive, but it often creates stagnation by keeping you busy with familiar tasks instead of pushing you toward the changes that unlock higher income and stability. 3. The comfort-zone trap is real: growth requires embracing discomfort, making calculated decisions, and stepping into leadership even when it feels unfamiliar. 4. Structure strengthens creativity, when you pair your artistry with strategy, systems, and a long-term vision, your talent becomes more profitable, consistent, and sustainable. 5. Working on your business (not just in it) is the difference between short-term survival and long-term success, because strategy time creates clarity, improves retention, and reduces chaos. 6. Creating space for thinking and decision-making helps prevent burnout, because new outcomes can't be created from constant stress, overextension, and reactive scheduling. 7. You don't have to abandon your artistry to be a CEO, you're learning to protect it with leadership, boundaries, and a business model that supports your life, not just your calendar. Get 15% off our favorite skincare line, Pharamgel with code SSA15: https://pharmagel.net/?ref=SSA15 personal growth, overcoming challenges, self-awareness, stress reduction, clarity, roadmap to success  

Are you exhausted from constantly chasing new clients on Instagram, TikTok, and referral apps, but not seeing your income reflect how hard you work behind the chair? In this episode, Ambrosia Carey breaks down the data-backed 5% client retention rule and shows you how a tiny improvement in retention can boost your salon revenue by 25–95% without adding more days, longer hours, or triple-booking chaos. If you're a hairstylist, colorist, booth renter, or salon owner who wants to build a sustainable, freedom-based beauty business, this conversation walks you through the difference between client acquisition and client retention, why social media can't be your only growth strategy, and how top-performing salons retain more first-time guests and turn them into loyal, high-value clients. You'll learn simple, repeatable systems you can plug into your existing booking software to stabilize your income, pre-book smarter, and create a client experience that feels elevated, personal, and totally on-brand. If you've been craving a clear roadmap to become the go-to stylist in your market, increase your rebook rate, and build a waitlist-worthy beauty business, this episode is for you. Watch our FREE Profit Maker Webinar Replay HERE: https://small-kiwi-98108.myflodesk.com/ao7u0l0qzq   Enjoy our Marketing Guide Freebie HERE: https://small-kiwi-98108.myflodesk.com/ke6k90nlq2 Share your experience and leave us a review HERE: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/successful-stylist-academy/id1584273127 Key Takeaways 1. A small 5% increase in client retention can raise your profitability by 25–95%, making retention one of the most powerful levers for growing your salon income without adding more hours behind the chair. 2. Top-performing salons rely on new clients for only about 10% of their total revenue; the rest comes from returning guests who pre-book, buy retail, say yes to add-ons, and refer friends, because the experience is consistent and predictable. 3. Client acquisition (CAC) is expensive in both money and energy: think content creation, DMs, inquiries, and ad spend, while a retained client costs virtually zero to reacquire and is far easier to serve at a higher level. 4. Retention is not about perfection; it's about a repeatable client journey: clear consultation, simple at-home routines, a strong checkout process, and an agreed-upon maintenance schedule that protects your client's hair and your time. 5. A simple three-touch system: post-visit check-in, midpoint reminder, and pre-book or follow-up nudge, can dramatically reduce ghosting, extend the lifetime value of each guest, and make your income more stable month after month. 6. Low pre-booking rates and stretched-out maintenance cycles are not marketing problems, they're communication problems; tightening how you talk about timing, pricing, and future appointments can quickly improve your retention numbers. 7. You don't need "more clients" to grow; you need to deepen the relationship with 80–120 ideal clients who feel seen, cared for, and excited to come back. Freeing up your calendar and nervous system so you can pursue education, brand partnerships, or salon ownership without burning out. 8. By focusing on one improvement (like pre-booking, consultation, or checkout) and tracking one number for 90 days, you can increase your retention by 15% and build a more profitable, sustainable, and freedom-based beauty business. For more tips, find us on Instagram Subscribe on YouTube for updates Take 15% off our favorite skincare line, Pharmagel with code SSA15: https://pharmagel.net/?ref=SSA15      

In this episode of the Successful Stylist Academy Podcast, Ambrosia pulls back the curtain on one of the most confusing parts of running a profitable business as an independent stylist or salon owner: where your money actually goes. Instead of just looking at your bank balance and hoping for the best, she walks you through a simple "waterfall" visual so you can see how every dollar flows through your business, into costs, marketing, overhead, education, and finally: profit. You'll learn realistic percentage benchmarks for each category, the most common money leaks that silently eat into your income, and how to fix them without adding more hours behind the chair. If you've ever felt busy but not truly profitable, this conversation will help you reclaim your confidence, your cash flow, and your long-term freedom. Get FREE access to our Creative Service Profit Maker Webinar now!  The booking software that makes my job easier is GlossGenius with AI support to make tasks as simple as clicking a button! Try it out for 2 weeks FREE: https://glossgenius.biz/AmbrosiaCarey Want more episodes like this? Drop a review here & tell us what you want to hear more of: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/successful-stylist-academy/id1584273127 Key Take-Aways: 1. Think of your business like a waterfall, not just a bank balance. 2. Money flows from the faucet into a series of "glass cups" : direct costs, client acquisition, overhead, growth, and finally profit. 3. When you see each glass clearly, you stop assuming all the money in your bank account is truly yours and start treating it as money with a job.   4. Get clear on your direct costs (COGS) so every bowl of color is profitable.  5. Direct costs include anything you touch, mix, or use on your client: color, lightener, developer, foils, gloves, towels, shampoo, conditioner, cleaning supplies, and even credit card fees.  6. Aim to keep these costs around 10–12% of your total revenue, and know that once you creep toward 15–20%, it is a danger zone and a clear sign you need a price increase.  7. Stop overordering and start pricing services with product usage in mind. 8. Common leaks include buying too much inventory, letting products expire, turning unsold retail into backbar, and never updating prices when suppliers raise theirs. 9. Fix this by using systems or software to track inventory, calculating your cost per scoop or per gram, and doing a quick monthly inventory check so your shelves are lean and intentional, not a graveyard of old product.   10. Track your Customer Acquisition Cost (CAC) so your marketing actually pays you back. 11. Your CAC includes ads, promos, new client discounts, referral rewards, branding shoots, social media time, website, and booking software that help you get clients in the door. 12. A healthy benchmark is 5–10% of your revenue, and a simple formula is: if you spend $200 on ads and get 5 new clients, your CAC is $40 per client and each client should bring in at least four times that in lifetime value.   13. Prioritize retention over constant hustle for new clients. 14. Common mistakes are chasing visibility without conversion, not tracking where new clients come from, and focusing more on strangers online than on the guests already in your chair. 15. Track first-time versus repeat clients monthly, create a simple referral system with a clear reward, and double down on the platforms and efforts that are actually sending you clients, not just likes.  16. Audit your overhead before it quietly drains your profit. 17. Overhead includes rent or booth rent, utilities, Wi-Fi, insurance, software, accounting, subscriptions, cleaning, payroll taxes, and benefits. 18. Ideally, this lands between 35–45% of your total revenue, and when it creeps toward 50% or higher, you either need to cut costs, raise prices, or both to keep your business from tipping upside down.   19. Be ruthless with subscriptions and intentional with tax planning. 20.Typical leaks are paying for apps and tools you no longer use, overspending on décor or space that does not match your income level, and failing to save ahead for taxes. 21. Quarterly, comb through subscriptions, automate your bookkeeping and reports, and move around 30% of your profit into a separate tax or high-yield savings account so you are not surprised at year-end.  22. Treat education, events, and travel as growth costs; not automatic write-offs. 23. Hair shows, classes, coaching, membership programs, flights, hotels, and meals are powerful when they are strategic, but expensive when they are random. 24. Try to keep these growth costs under about 8–10% of your annual revenue, give every class a clear action plan for how you will turn it into income, and look for ways to turn trips into content, offers, or digital assets you can reuse.   25. Decide how your profit will be divided before it hits your account. 26. Profit is what remains after all buckets are filled, and it is not the same as your paycheck.  27. A sample breakdown is: 30% for taxes, 10% for emergency reserves, 10–15% to reinvest in education, marketing, or tools, and 45–55% to pay yourself, so every dollar has a purpose instead of disappearing.  28. Do a simple money audit and fix just one leak this month. 29. Look at last month's income and write down what you spent on supplies, client acquisition, overhead, and education, then see what was truly left as profit.   Get 15% off Pharmagel, our favorite skincare line with code SSA15: http://www.pharmagel.net/discount/ssa15?redirect=%2F%3Fafmc%3Dssa15  

Offering extensions can transform your average ticket, attract premium clients, and position you as an expert. In this episode I break down how to use "scholarship" (free-labor) installs to sprint your social proof, fill your portfolio, and raise prices with confidence, without giving away the store. You'll get scripts, a 7-day action plan, and the math to make it smart. Get FREE access to our profit making webinar: https://small-kiwi-98108.myflodesk.com/ao7u0l0qzq Get 20% off your first order & subscribe to Rooted Hair for ongoing deals & education: https://rootedhair.ca/ Key Take-aways: 1. Free or low-cost installs are not "giving away time" — they're a strategic investment that builds your portfolio, confidence, and social proof. 2. Choose models intentionally; their hair, vibe, and reliability should match your dream client. 3. Always do an in-person consultation to assess density, texture, lifestyle, and realistic expectations. 4. Use model installs to capture strong content: videos, transformations, reactions, and movement shots. 5. Set clear expectations — free installs do not include free maintenance. 6. Outline deliverables for your model such as tags, testimonials, or specific content requirements. 7. Recommend the extension method that fits the client's hair and lifestyle, not just what you want to showcase. 8. Present your offer as a structured model call, not a giveaway. 9. Use the model period for testing, check-ins, and refining your technique and systems. 10. Limit freebies to maintain value and avoid attracting bargain-hunters. 11. Avoid models needing heavy color correction — it adds unpaid hours and unpredictable results. 12. Use team members as in-salon models to build credibility and visibility. 13. Start with a small beta group to gather feedback, testimonials, and repeat business. 14. Track long-term earnings — even a handful of models can generate thousands in yearly maintenance revenue. 15. Practice before launching publicly; confidence grows through private reps and real clients. 16. Streamline your technique — clients value efficient installs just as much as luxury experiences. 17. Avoid selecting models strictly through DMs; refusals to consult in person are red flags. 18. Remember: free installs are an intentional investment that fuel your launch, proof, and profitability. Take 15% off our favorite skincare line, Pharmagel with code SSA15: https://pharmagel.net/?ref=AMBROSIAMANN  

What is HairAid and how can a hairstylist actually change a life in one week? Ambrosia talks with Alannah Zilkowsky (HairAid project lead) and Corey/Hairdustry about HairAid's volunteer-led projects in Cambodia, the Philippines, Indonesia, Thailand, and Guatemala. Learn how teams teach core foundational haircuts in less than a week, why graduates can earn income immediately, who can volunteer (you don't need to be an educator), costs and logistics, real success stories, and why many stylists return feeling re-energized and burnout-free. If you've wondered how to use your salon skills for global impact, this is your playbook. Catch the Profit Marker Replay HERE: https://small-kiwi-98108.myflodesk.com/ao7u0l0qzq To learn more about HairAid: https://hairaid.org.au/ 1. HairAid is a volunteer-led charity that teaches core foundational haircuts in less than a week, so people in extreme poverty can earn income immediately. 2. You don't need to be an "educator" to serve basic skills. Willingness to follow HairAid's method, and a servant mindset are enough.   3. Projects operate in countries like Cambodia, the Philippines, Indonesia, Thailand, and Guatemala, partnering with local NGOs for lasting impact.   4. Students often experience their first formal education on day one, and by day's end they complete a live one-length cut with guidance.   5. The curriculum covers greeting, tools, sectioning, one-length, V-shape, long layers, round layers, graduated bob, and short cuts (adapted per location).   6. Impact is immediate: graduates open micro-salons, support families, and even return as translators/trainers, creating ripple effects.   7. Volunteers report personal transformation, learning presence, surrender, and gratitude, often returning re-energized and cured of burnout.   8. HairAid's logistics remove guesswork: pre-trip packets, packing lists, cultural notes, training videos, and on-ground induction day. 9. Typical projects host 12–18 volunteers; costs include a volunteer fee plus flights, many stylists fundraise via clients and salon events. 10.  Common fears (cost, travel, "am I good enough?") are normal; pairing with experienced leads and teammates makes it manageable. 11. Service extends beyond the classroom: HairAid supports local social enterprises (hotels, eateries) to uplift the wider community. 12. Post-COVID rebuilding means fewer trips now, with more locations returning; connections on the ground help open future countries.  13. You can contribute even if you're not ready to travel: share the mission, sponsor a volunteer, or connect HairAid to credible local partners.  14. Bringing a spouse or friend is welcome, non-stylists can help with admin, cross-checks, or allied community projects.  1 5. Big picture: teaching a skill changes a life, restores dignity, and builds community, while reminding us why this industry matters. Get 15% off Pharmagel, our favorite skincare line by entering code SSA15: http://www.pharmagel.net/discount/ssa15?redirect=%2F%3Fafmc%3Dssa15

Your time is your most valuable and limited business asset. In this episode, Ambrosia Carey reveals how to calculate your true hourly rate, spot hidden time drains, and protect your schedule so your business actually works for you. Perfect for hairstylists, salon owners, and creative entrepreneurs ready to scale without burning out. Get your free time tracker here: https://small-kiwi-98108.myflodesk.com/cm08owklix Watch our FREE profit maker webinar here: https://small-kiwi-98108.myflodesk.com/ao7u0l0qzq Key Take-Aways: 1. No one talks about the one asset you can't raise… your time. 2.If you've ever spent hours prepping for a client just to break even, delivered amazing work that took more out of you than it gave back, it might be worthwhile to track you time. 3. Time is your most limited, non-renewable resource. Money can be replaced. 4. Time is the invisible labor in your business, from admin to prep, content creation, client communication, setup, cleanup, and everything in between. 5. Calculate how much time went into prep, during, and post. Then subtract taxes, fees, and costs which will bring your real return. 6. Hidden time costs are everywhere. From travel time you don't bill for, to client follow-ups on your days off, to team management and inventory issues, it all adds up. 7. Here's how to protect and optimize your time: Create repeatable processes, batch content and communication, schedule work during your best energy hours, use time-based pricing, and track your time for one week to see where your hours actually go. 8. Scaling isn't just adding clients, it's reclaiming time so you can build with intention. 9. If you're ready to protect your time, grab my free Time Audit Worksheet: a simple guide to help you track your real time costs, calculate your hourly return, and identify where your time is being underpaid or unaccounted for. 10. Let's protect your time, and build something sustainable together. Join our Membership Waitlist Take 15% off our favorite skincare line, Pharmagel with code SSA15:  http://www.pharmagel.net/discount/ssa15?redirect=%2F%3Fafmc%3Dssa15 Email & text marketing is the quickest way to increase your income and GlossGenius has AI support to make this as simple as clicking a button! Try it out for 2 weeks FREE: https://glossgenius.biz/AmbrosiaCarey

As a hairstylist, increasing your income isn't always about adding more, it's about deepening the way you communicate, consult, and recommend. In this episode, we explore the mindset shifts and soft skills that make all the difference. You'll learn how to remove the ick from sales by shifting your focus from pushing to partnering. From understanding the stories you tell yourself about selling, to crafting recommendations that actually help your clients feel seen and supported, this conversation goes deep into what it truly means to build trust behind the chair. We'll talk about how retail becomes a tool for transformation, how to simplify your systems, and how the care you give can create a lasting foundation, not just for your client relationships, but for your career. If you've ever struggled with selling retail, felt weird bringing up products, or want to serve better and earn more, this episode is for you.   Download our FREE full proof profit maker HERE: https://small-kiwi-98108.myflodesk.com/nlle1d1php We would love to hear from you, drop a review & we will add you into our next giveaway: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/successful-stylist-academy/id1584273127 Key Take-aways: 1. Ways of creating opportunities can happen simply by focusing on a specific problem. 2. What are the stories you tell yourself when it comes to providing a service and sales? 3. Delivery is everything. If we learn to deliver differently, we remove the ick from sales. 4. The repulsive sales feeling comes from someone thinking they're trying to take something from us. 5. Care vs. Commission. 6. Start with the recommendation through the consultation. 7. It's more of a partnership with your client, and you want to work together. 8. Care can be both about the care of the hair with the result in mind, but it can also be about helping the client feel less overwhelmed & learning how to repeat what we do behind the chair.  9. If you don't know or like the product, it's hard to talk about it. 10. Impact happens with passing knowledge onto our clients, because they spend more time with their hair than we as service providers do. 11. Retail builds trust, which builds a different foundation, and career. 12. Soft skills should happen in beauty school & with mentorship. 13. The art of being seen & heard is repeating back what you hear. 14. Ask what might be missing before starting the service.  15. Every time a client comes to see you, they left some other place, and they're coming to you for a reason.   16. Technology has made it possible that we communicate less, but with our industry, we need to communicate more. 17.Communication skills are vital to a successful foundation. Learn more about people and how you can provide exceptional care.  18. Life is a mirror not a window. 19. We have processes & procedures for everything else in our service, do the same for retail. 20. 4 parts: Captivate, fascinate, educate, close. 21. Find out what's most important to your clients. Then find out the What, why, how, when. 22. For a low-performing stylist, find out why your clients aren't purchasing from you.   23. Coach to the habits, not the numbers. 24. Every day, pick up 2-3 products and get to know the product. You can find Kristie on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/kristie.theorie?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw== Email & text marketing is the quickest way to increase your income and GlossGenius has AI support to make this as simple as clicking a button! Try it out for 2 weeks FREE: https://glossgenius.biz/AmbrosiaCarey Get 15% off Pharmagel, our favorite skincare line with code SSA15: http://www.pharmagel.net/discount/ssa15?redirect=%2F%3Fafmc%3Dssa15    

In this episode, we sit down with Carrie Scott, Financial Advisor with Cetera Investors, to talk about building real, sustainable wealth as a creative business owner. Whether you're a hairstylist, solopreneur, or growing your side hustle, this conversation is packed with approachable tips on setting up financial systems, the biggest mistakes creatives make with money, how to plan for slow seasons and long-term wealth, shifting from hustle mode to intentional money moves. Carrie breaks down complex topics with warmth, clarity, and zero judgment. This is the episode every creative didn't know they needed.   Find Carrie Scott here: website: https://scottwealthmgmt.ceterainvestors.com/ or feel free to contact by email. Carrie recommends you read this book Our 6 figure stylist guide here: https://view.flodesk.com/pages/622541789b7136a9e313da40  Key Take-aways: 1. You can open a RothIRA for your working child to help them get started with their long term wealth building. 2. As a small business owner, look over your spending and income month to month & start with an emergency fund. 3. Set yourself up for success by putting yourself first and start investing for your future plan. 4. Would you rather pay yourself or the IRS? 5. The average age that someone starts to invest in their future is 40. Imagine what it would look like to start earlier. 6. Start with the end in mind. Have the final number you want to retire with and get clarity on what you should be putting away. 7. Monthly installments can help over the one lump sum to accrue interest over 8. Get the mindset of how you'll start your investment; short, medium, or long term for the best success.  9. Debt accrual is a financial killer and can hold you back from moving forward. Do you want to sacrifice now or later? 10. Index means the money is split between all companies. 11. Investing into a mutual fund or ETF is a safe way to invest. 12. A Simple IRA maxes at $16,500 for the year 2025 if you're under 50 & have at least 1 employee. There is no cost to set it up, and the employer has to match up to 2%. 13. SEP IRA is for a solo $70k per year or 25%. 14. Both Simple & SEP IRA's have matching as well as separate requirements.  15. If you put $300 away in an investment account, you're not actually putting away $300 because $80-100 would have been counted toward taxes, so your check looks like it drops closer to $200 instead. 16. Financial advisors not only help you with choosing how to invest in the right type of account to fit your needs a goals, they also help you come up with a plan to pay off debt, save, and get to your goals faster. 17.Short term typically don't have fees & don't pay much, intermediate (5+ year goal) mutual funds which compounds over time, but you don't have to be 59 ½ before you can touch the money. Long-term don't touch until you're 59 ½  18. IRS charges a 10% fee if you take money out prior to 59 ½  19. Annuities you don't have an age limit when you want to take money out of an account. You only pay taxes for the income, and it's a nice way to build a legacy and pass over the generations. 20. You have to take income at the age of 73 on your IRA. 21. CDs and HYSA (high-yield savings account) interest payments and terms change all the time. Email & text marketing is the quickest way to increase your income and GlossGenius has AI support to make this as simple as clicking a button! Try it out for 2 weeks FREE: https://glossgenius.biz/AmbrosiaCarey Get 15% off Pharmagel, our favorite skincare line with code SSA15: http://www.pharmagel.net/discount/ssa15?redirect=%2F%3Fafmc%3Dssa15  

Struggling to market your creative business or attract high-quality clients? In this episode, we join Jodie Brown who walks through the exact steps to define your ideal client, clarify your brand message, and choose the right marketing channels to grow your business. Learn why niching down helps you stand out, how to stop overthinking your content, and how to use repetition to build reputation. Whether you're a hairstylist, salon owner, or creative entrepreneur, this episode will help you simplify your strategy and create marketing that actually works. Get FREE access to our profit making webinar: https://small-kiwi-98108.myflodesk.com/ao7u0l0qzq Our 6 figure stylist guide here: https://view.flodesk.com/pages/622541789b7136a9e313da40  Key Take-aways: 1. When you find there is a need to solve, that's what shapes your marketing message. 2. Some people get confused with the type of clients they want to have vs the type of clients they're already attracting. 3. You attract what you project.  4. Identifying your ideal client is a fundamental must do. 5. Who are you talking to and what problem do you solve or what desire do you want to facilitate? 6. Why you? What is the unique way you'll solve your clients problems? 7. When you get those answers defined then you can choose your marketing channels. 8. Most businesses get hung up because they don't get specific enough. Niching down will always help you stand out.  9. A common mistake businesses make is thinking the can't post the same thing twice. 10. Marketing isn't about saying 100 different things, it's about saying 1 thing 100 different ways. 11. Repetition equals reputation. 12. Marketing yourself as a generalist can be harder, focus on the experience. 13. Three areas of focus to be successful in marketing your business are: website, Instagram, and email list. 14. The first step before coming up with a strategy is gaining clarity on your brand story. 15. Add a CTA (call to action) in your bio with an easy & structured way to guide visitors into clients. 16. Pinning a post with all of your important information is helpful as well. 17. Once you have clarity in your brand, have a structured way of funneling visitors into clients, then create your content plan. 18. Content is about bringing the foundations to life. You can find Align Creative Co on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/aligncreativeco?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw== Email & text marketing is the quickest way to increase your income and GlossGenius has AI support to make this as simple as clicking a button! Try it out for 2 weeks FREE: https://glossgenius.biz/AmbrosiaCarey Get 15% off Pharmagel, our favorite skincare line with code SSA15: http://www.pharmagel.net/discount/ssa15?redirect=%2F%3Fafmc%3Dssa15    

In this episode of the Successful Stylist Academy Podcast, we sit down with one of our Business Collective attendees, Vanessa Gross, to share her real, raw journey from working behind the chair to opening the doors of her very first salon. We dive into what inspired her leap, the mindset shifts she had to make, and the systems that helped her scale. If you've been thinking about salon ownership or looking for motivation to grow, this is the conversation you need to hear. Get FREE access to our profit making webinar: https://small-kiwi-98108.myflodesk.com/ao7u0l0qzq Our 6 figure stylist guide here: https://view.flodesk.com/pages/622541789b7136a9e313da40  Key Take-aways: 1. Apply your years of growth as a form of service toward others. 2. The beauty of being in a salon environment is passing along your knowledge and paying forward as a mentor. 3. Growth doesn't go without it's challenges, lean on others who want to help you, which is why Successful Stylist Academy exists.  4. Take your learning lessons as your strength.  5. Learning new tools and adding technology can introduce another branchs of creativity, revenue, and growth. 6. Focusing on your client growth and retention also supports your communication skills, confidence, and leadership. 7. Recognize when you've graduated to the next level and align with those who are at the same frequency. You can find Vanessa on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/vanessagrossstyle?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw== Email & text marketing is the quickest way to increase your income and GlossGenius has AI support to make this as simple as clicking a button! Try it out for 2 weeks FREE: https://glossgenius.biz/AmbrosiaCarey Get 15% off Pharmagel, our favorite skincare line with code SSA15: http://www.pharmagel.net/discount/ssa15?redirect=%2F%3Fafmc%3Dssa15    

What separates a good stylist from a great one? In this episode, we sit down with industry educator Katie Alm to talk about the unspoken habits and mindset shifts that set top stylists apart in today's competitive beauty industry. We cover everything from discipline, professional growth, and being of service — to why collaboration will always outlast comparison. Whether you're a salon assistant, an independent stylist, or a beauty educator, this episode dives deep into the leadership skills, daily discipline, and client-first mindset that fuel long-term success behind the chair. If you're looking to grow your beauty business, avoid burnout, and build a sustainable career in the salon industry — this one's for you. If you missed part 1: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/successful-stylist-academy/id1584273127?i=1000702210150 Get FREE access to our profit making webinar: https://small-kiwi-98108.myflodesk.com/ao7u0l0qzq Our 6 figure stylist guide here: https://view.flodesk.com/pages/622541789b7136a9e313da40  Key Take-aways: 1. If you want more opportunities, be willing to be available and be of service. Let no task be below you.  2. As an educator or leader, the person who is helping you is the most important person while under your care. 3. If someone challenges you when learning, let them. For every stylist that challenges you, there are 2-3 that won't.  4. How someone approaches learning is often how they'll approach their career.  5. If you want to grow in this career, all it requires is discipline. 6. You don't have to be a salon owner to be the final boss. You have to have the passion to feed your fellow community. 7. If you are giving 30% of your time to something, how can you expect 100% return? 8. The biggest thing that can kill your career is boredom. 9. Instead of hating on someone, collaborate with them. You can find Katie on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/katieealm?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw== Email & text marketing is the quickest way to increase your income and GlossGenius has AI support to make this as simple as clicking a button! Try it out for 2 weeks FREE: https://glossgenius.biz/AmbrosiaCarey Get 15% off Pharmagel, our favorite skincare line with code SSA15: http://www.pharmagel.net/discount/ssa15?redirect=%2F%3Fafmc%3Dssa15  

In this episode, we join Katie Alm, getting real about what actually moves the needle in your beauty career, and it's not chasing the latest trends. From posting with intention to fully understanding the brands you align with, we'll cover mindset and strategy shifts that can change everything. Get FREE access to our profit making webinar: https://small-kiwi-98108.myflodesk.com/ao7u0l0qzq Our 6 figure stylist guide here: https://view.flodesk.com/pages/622541789b7136a9e313da40  Key Take-aways: 1. Posting with intention, sharing your knowledge, and aligning with a brand you love can change the trajectory of your career.  2. Experimenting with the full line of a brand you love and getting really knowledgeable about the full line, makes all the difference. 3. Forget the trending, use the tried and true: posting consistently, come from a place of gaining more experience, and get to know the culture behind the brand. 4. It's all about perspective baby! Do you look at what you're losing or what you're gaining? 5. Where can you volunteer help in an area that might be needed? 6.If you're juggling more than one career path at the same time, communicate and accommodate your clients. By setting the tone in the beginning and letting clients know how you operate, there won't be surprises when it does happen. Email & text marketing is the quickest way to increase your income and GlossGenius has AI support to make this as simple as clicking a button! Try it out for 2 weeks FREE: https://glossgenius.biz/AmbrosiaCarey Take 15% off our favorite skincare line, Pharmagel with code SSA15: http://www.pharmagel.net/discount/ssa15?redirect=%2F%3Fafmc%3Dssa15  

In Part 2 of our leadership deep dive, we're tackling proactive leadership strategies to create a thriving salon culture. Learn how to set clear expectations, communicate with confidence, and lead by example—not just in action, but through clear communication. We'll cover holding your team accountable without micromanaging, addressing issues with clarity and kindness, and creating systems that drive long-term success. If you're ready to shift from reacting to leading with confidence, tune in! Want the full script? Download it here: https://small-kiwi-98108.myflodesk.com/i4lkgeeq3r Get FREE access to our Creative Service Profit Maker Webinar now! https://small-kiwi-98108.myflodesk.com/ao7u0l0qzq   Key Take-aways: 1. Leading vs Reacting: reaction comes from a place of fear and defensiveness. 2. People may think they're leading, but we need to understand more about the individual to know what works for them. 3. Is the way you're perceiving love or acceptance healthy? 4. There are reactive and proactive listeners. Reactive leaders wait until a problem explodes to address it. 5. Never complain about a team member behind their back. 6. As a leader, pull anyone aside to hash out issues and listen. 7. You can't hold team members accountable for what you yourself are not practicing. 8. Proactive leaders set clear standards up front, have it in clear writing, and reinforce them. 9. Proactive leaders address small issues before they become big. 10. Leading by example isn't only about the task, it also needs to be communicated. 11. Explaining why creates purpose behind the task. 12. A script example is: "I'm restocking the backbar because I noticed we're running low, when we stay ahead of this we don't run out in the middle of a service." 13. "Hey (name) I've noticed a pattern where (address a specific issue), I want to check in with what's going on." Then pause. 14. Be short and sweet, and direct and kind. 15. Create a framework that surrounds the issue not the person. 16. When you create clear systems and you create consistency, it becomes a ripple effect. Enjoy 15% off our favorite skincare line, Pharmagel with code SSA15 at checkout: http://www.pharmagel.net/discount/ssa15?redirect=%2F%3Fafmc%3Dssa15 Email & text marketing is the quickest way to increase your income and GlossGenius has AI support to make this as simple as clicking a button! Try it out for 2 weeks FREE: https://glossgenius.biz/AmbrosiaCarey  

Running a salon team isn't just about great hair—it's about clear expectations, accountability, and strong leadership. In this episode, we break down why stylists ignore responsibilities, how to get them to care, and the key shifts that turn frustration into teamwork. Learn how to lead with confidence, and create a culture where everyone takes ownership. If you're tired of repeating yourself or struggling with follow-through, this episode is for you. Get FREE access to our Creative Service Profit Maker Webinar now! https://small-kiwi-98108.myflodesk.com/ao7u0l0qzq Key Take-aways: 1. One of the biggest reasons a task isn't done is they just don't see how it can benefit them. 2. Rather than should's or shouldn't's, focus on tying responsibilities to personal success. 3. Creating a culture of salon leadership brings up future leaders, making your business more sustainable. 4. Be firm but kind 5. Another reason someone doesn't take responsibility is because they assume someone else will take care of it. 6. When addressing, keep it short and simple, and pull them away privately. 7. When someone owns a task, they're more likely to do it. 8. Create a sanitation list and introduce it at a meeting. 9. Another reason something isn't done is because someone doesn't feel accountable. 10. Try a nomination box to bring team morale together, give a gift card to the most nominated employee. 11. Personally thank and publicly recognize when someone goes above and beyond. 12. Come up with solutions during team meetings. Ask your staff if they have ideas. 13. Focus on clarity over assumption 14. Have policies like this written in a team handbook or policy guide. 15. Address issues 1:1 and not in a group. Calling someone out publicly is a form of public shaming. 16. If you have high turnover, it's time to take a look at how you're leading your culture and environment. 17. Frame your approach as collaboration so that you can work together and bond as a team. 18. The bigger picture is to create a team that builds a sustainable business, and therefor creating opportunity and freedom to make choices or take risk. Email & text marketing is the quickest way to increase your income and GlossGenius has AI support to make this as simple as clicking a button! Try it out for 2 weeks FREE: https://glossgenius.biz/AmbrosiaCarey Take 15% off our favorite skincare line, Pharmagel with code SSA15: http://www.pharmagel.net/discount/ssa15?redirect=%2F%3Fafmc%3Dssa15  

Entrepreneurship is full of highs, lows, and lessons you don't see coming. In Life Lessons of an Entrepreneur, Ambrosia Carey shares unfiltered insights on business growth, boundaries, and the mindset shifts that make success sustainable. Whether you're a hairstylist, salon owner, or creative entrepreneur, this podcast delivers real talk on navigating challenges, scaling with purpose, and building a business that works for you—not the other way around. Tune in for honest conversations, actionable strategies, and the lessons Ambrosia learned the hard way so you don't have to. Subscribe now! Get FREE access to our Creative Service Profit Maker Webinar now: https://small-kiwi-98108.myflodesk.com/ao7u0l0qzq !   Are you in our Membership Waitlist? Join now! https://small-kiwi-98108.myflodesk.com/gnfbcgfrjq Get 2 week of GlossGenius for FREE: https://glossgenius.biz/AmbrosiaCarey Key Take-aways: 1. Slow down, you could actually get more done because it allows you to be efficient. 2. No one is coming to save you, rather than resenting the feeling of being held back, make different choices and take authority of your life's outcomes. 3. Perfection is just fear in a fancy outfit. Done is better than perfect. 4. Ask yourself, what can you launch messy today? 5. Boundaries are your freedom, not your punishment. 6. Boundaries don't push the right people away, they push the wrong people out. 7. If it's not a hell yes, it's a no. 8. People will show you who they are…believe them. 9. Money is a tool and not a trophy. 10. Your energy is your most valuable currency. Enjoy 15% off our favorite skincare line, Pharmagel with code SSA15 at checkout: http://www.pharmagel.net/discount/ssa15?redirect=%2F%3Fafmc%3Dssa15