Hair Boss Not Hair Loss

Today, I’m joined by Celia Samater, whose cancer diagnosis in 2017 completely changed the course of her life. At the time, Celia was living her dream life in Saudi Arabia with her family when she was suddenly faced with a breast cancer diagnosis that made her stop and re-evaluate everything. She thought she knew about success, purpose and identity. In this inspiring conversation, Celia shares how her experience led her to retrain as a life coach and cancer counsellor, helping others find strength, hope and clarity during life’s toughest moments. Now back in the UK, she combines her coaching work with her role at the University of Sunderland, supporting students to build confidence, resilience and direction. Celia opens up about the moment everything changed, the challenges of her treatment journey, and how the unwavering love of her family and friends helped her rebuild and redefine her purpose. *(Please note: this episode was recorded in 2023) Connect with Celia: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/celiasamater/ Sisterhood for Success: https://www.linkedin.com/company/sisterhood-for-success/ Connect with Nicola: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicola-wood-hair-loss-specialist/ The Wonderful Wig Company: https://wonderfulwigs.co.uk/

Booking a hair loss consultation can feel overwhelming, especially given the personal challenges that often lead to it.Today, I'm joined by Karen Young, Style Director at The Wonderful Wig Company, who brings over 30 years of experience in the hair and wig industry and has been part of the company since its earliest days. Karen shares how she works to make every client’s experience as comfortable, supportive, and reassuring as possible.We explore the emotional journey many clients face when dealing with hair loss, what to expect during a consultation, and why creating a compassionate, judgement-free environment is essential. Karen also shares stories from her three decades in the industry, the highs, the challenges, and the deep personal connections that make her work so meaningful.This episode offers insight, empathy, and practical guidance for anyone experiencing hair loss or supporting someone who is.Connect with Karen:Website: https://wonderfulwigs.co.uk/Connect with Nicola:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicola-wood-hair-loss-specialist/The Wonderful Wig Company: https://wonderfulwigs.co.uk/

Today, I'm joined by Cancer Rehabilitation Practitioner Caroline Tweedie, who shares her expert insights into supporting individuals on their cancer journey. Caroline is not only a dedicated cancer rehab specialist but also a qualified personal trainer with a deep interest in how fitness can play a powerful role in both treatment and recovery. In this episode, she talks about research on exercise and cancer and explains why staying active is so vital before, during and after treatment. With over 17 years of experience as a breast cancer specialist nurse, Caroline has supported countless patients through the emotional and physical challenges that come with a cancer diagnosis. She offers practical advice on navigating this life-changing diagnosis, from building resilience to embracing your identity. (Please note: this episode was recorded in 2023) Connect with Nicola: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicola-wood-hair-loss-specialist/ The Wonderful Wig Company: https://wonderfulwigs.co.uk/ References: Liz O’Riordan: https://liz.oriordan.co.uk/ Patient Cancer Series Podcast: https://www.gatesheadhealth.nhs.uk/news/launch-of-cancer-podcast-series/ Balance North East: https://www.fresh-balance.co.uk/balance/

Today, I’m chatting to Arjuna Ishaya about being present and finding the calm in everyday life through meditation. Arjuna is an Ishaya monk, author and teacher of tools to help people master their minds to live well. Arjuna has practised the Ishayas’ Ascension every day since 2003. It’s a different kind of living based on wisdom, joy and possibility, with zero fear, struggle and stress. Having been affected by cancer in his personal life, Arjuna shares how being present helped him through the trauma, and how it can help others. This episode also features a short meditation, so sit back, relax and enjoy Arjuna’s inspiring wisdom. Connect: Arjuna: Instagram: @arjunaishaya Website: https://www.arjunaishaya.com/ Nicola LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicola-wood-hair-loss-specialist/ The Wonderful Wig Company: https://wonderfulwigs.co.uk/

Today, I’m chatting to Ashton Telford about her Hair Boss story. Five years ago, Ashton was diagnosed with alopecia universalis. Coming as a complete shock, Ashton felt as though she had completely lost her identity. In this episode, Ashton shares her journey: from the shock of her diagnosis to the challenges she has overcome over the past five years, and how she’s used social media as a powerful platform to help spread awareness and build a positive and supportive community around hair loss. Ashton says it how it is, with honesty, courage, and a refreshing realness that will give you the confidence you need to feel empowered, so let's go! (Please note: this episode was recorded in 2023) Connect with Ashton: Instagram: @ashtonmaysjourney_ TikTok: @AshtonTelford56 Connect with Nicola: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicola-wood-hair-loss-specialist/ The Wonderful Wig Company: https://wonderfulwigs.co.uk/

One of the goals of this podcast is to answer the questions people commonly have about hair loss. These bonus FAQ episodes are designed to address the concerns I hear most often from those facing hair loss. Today’s question is: “What should I expect at an appointment for a wig fitting?” Most people never imagine they’ll find themselves booking a wig styling appointment and it can feel like a really daunting step to take. In this episode, I’m here to walk you through the process of booking your first appointment and help take some of the fear out of it. I’ll explain what to expect during that initial phone call, who you might want to bring along for support, and how to make the experience as comfortable as possible. I’ll also talk you through what happens when you first walk through our salon doors, and how our amazing team makes everyone feel supported throughout their journey. These episodes are here to support anyone going through hair loss themselves, as well as those supporting a loved one through it. Connect with me: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicola-wood-hair-loss-specialist/ The Wonderful Wig Company: https://wonderfulwigs.co.uk/

One of the goals of this podcast is to answer the questions people commonly have about hair loss. These bonus FAQ episodes are designed to address the concerns I hear most often from those facing hair loss. Today’s question is: “How and when will my hair loss happen?” In this episode, I’m sharing why it’s so important to follow any hair loss advice you receive right from the beginning. Based on my experience working with over 10,000 women, I’ll talk about the average timeline of hair loss and what you can realistically expect. We’ll look at what the process of losing your hair typically involves but more importantly, I’ll offer guidance on how to regain a sense of control and confidence, so you can navigate this journey feeling more informed and empowered. These episodes are here to support anyone going through hair loss themselves, as well as those supporting a loved one through it. Connect with me: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicola-wood-hair-loss-specialist/ The Wonderful Wig Company: https://wonderfulwigs.co.uk/

One of the goals of this podcast is to answer the questions people commonly have about hair loss. These bonus FAQ episodes are designed to address the concerns I hear most often from those facing hair loss. Today’s question is: “How can I build confidence wearing and styling a wig?” In this episode, I take it right back to basics, breaking down the old stigmas around wearing wigs and why those stigmas no longer apply. I’ll talk about how natural wigs can look these days, and how you're probably watching people in media wearing wigs without even realising. I’ll also tackle another question I hear all the time: “Will my wig fall off in the wind?” Tune in to hear real-life examples that bust this myth once and for all! You’ll also get practical advice on how to start building your confidence in wearing a wig, right from the moment you walk into the salon for your very first appointment. These episodes are here to support anyone going through hair loss themselves, as well as those supporting a loved one through it. Connect with me: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicola-wood-hair-loss-specialist/ The Wonderful Wig Company: https://wonderfulwigs.co.uk/

One of the goals of this podcast is to answer the questions people commonly have about hair loss. These bonus FAQ episodes are designed to address the concerns I hear most often from those facing hair loss. Today’s question is: “Will my hair fall out? And is there anything I can do to stop it?” I’ll be sharing the same advice I give to clients who come into the salon with this worry. I’ll also talk about how to prepare yourself for the possibility of hair loss, and how to approach what can be a very emotional experience with a bit more calm and confidence. These episodes are here to support anyone going through hair loss themselves, as well as those supporting a loved one through it. Connect with me: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicola-wood-hair-loss-specialist/ The Wonderful Wig Company: https://wonderfulwigs.co.uk/

A little bit about me... I’m Nicola Wood, host of the Hair Boss Not Hair Loss podcast. In this episode, I’m going to tell you my story. It’s open, honest, and raw, which is exactly what I want this podcast to be. I’ll uncover what I’ve been through, and what led me to becoming a hair boss. I’ll also be chatting about what we’re going to be hearing on the upcoming episodes, and how we’re going to change to a Hair Boss Not Hair Loss mentality. So, let's get stuck in. Connect: Nicola: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicola-wood-hair-loss-specialist/

Welcome to the Hair Boss Not Hair Loss podcast. I'm Nicola Wood.This podcast is a safe space to be open and honest about those difficult decisions around hair-loss. Joining me on this journey are awe-inspiring guests—individuals who have experienced hair loss, faced cancer, and provide unwavering support in these areas.Hair Boss Not Hair Loss isn't just about surviving, it's about thriving. We'll share practical steps to overcome challenges and empower yourself to be the boss of your own life.Together, let’s move towards the Hair Boss Not Hair Loss mentality.