The Hair Hustle Podcast

FREEBIE: Money Date Cheat SheetWant to be a guest on The Hair Hustle Podcast? Contact Heather at helloheatherpod@gmail.comSummaryIn this episode of the Hairhousel Podcast, Heather Podlesny discusses the concept of 'money dates'—a structured approach to managing personal and business finances. She emphasizes the importance of regular check-ins with finances to reduce anxiety and improve financial awareness. Heather outlines the steps to implement money dates, including setting a consistent schedule, focusing on key financial metrics, and asking constructive questions. The episode concludes with an invitation to access a cheat sheet to simplify the process of starting money dates.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Money Dates01:04 Understanding Money Dates04:43 Implementing Money Dates08:13 The Structure of a Money Date12:44 Closing the Money Date13:17 The Impact of Money DatesKeywordsmoney dates, financial planning, salon business, budgeting, personal finance, stylist strategies, salon owner tips, financial awareness, money management, emotional connection to money

Contact Heather: helloheatherpod@gmail.comSummaryIn this episode of the Hair Hustle Podcast, host Heather Podlesney discusses the challenges stylists face in the beauty industry, particularly focusing on what they can and cannot control. She emphasizes the importance of mental health and the need to let go of things outside of one's control, such as cancellations and client spending habits. Heather encourages stylists to focus on clear communication, service structuring, and budgeting as areas they can influence. The episode concludes with a practical exercise for listeners to identify what they can control and what they need to let go of, promoting a healthier mindset in their professional lives.Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Hair Hustle Podcast00:35 Understanding the Beauty Industry's Challenges00:41 What Stylists Can and Cannot Control03:01 The Importance of Letting Go07:21 Focusing on What You Can Control09:14 Shifting from Reaction to Intention10:43 Practical Exercise for Stylists12:41 Conclusion and Next StepsKeywordsbeauty industry, salon management, stylist tips, mental health, control, communication, client relationships, business strategies, self-care, professional growth

Contact Heather: helloheatherpod@gmail.comSummaryIn this episode of the Hair Hustle Podcast, Heather Podlesney discusses the evolving landscape of consumer behavior in the beauty industry. She emphasizes the importance of understanding shifts in guest spending habits, the need for clear pricing, and the necessity for stylists to adapt their strategies to meet changing consumer expectations. Heather encourages stylists to analyze their business metrics, embrace a mindset shift, and focus on providing value to clients to thrive in 2026 and beyond.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Hair Hustle Podcast00:52 Understanding Consumer Behavior02:55 Shifts in Guest Spending Habits04:45 The Importance of Clear Pricing08:19 Mindset Shift in the Beauty Industry09:53 Adapting to New Consumer ExpectationsKeywordshair salon, consumer behavior, stylist tips, salon business, guest spending, financial awareness, mindset shift, beauty industry, retail strategies, salon success

Contact Heather: helloheatherpod@gmail.comSummaryIn this episode of the Hair Hustle Podcast, host Heather Podlesney addresses the current financial climate affecting stylists and salon owners. She emphasizes the importance of developing a budgeting habit rather than just focusing on the numbers. Drawing from her own experiences and conversations with industry peers, Heather shares insights on how to navigate the emotional weight of money management, especially during uncertain times. She encourages listeners to view budgeting not as a punishment but as a form of permission to make informed financial decisions that support their lives and businesses.Heather also discusses the cyclical nature of income in the beauty industry, particularly the seasonal dips that stylists often face. She reassures listeners that feeling stressed about money is common and does not equate to being bad at business. Instead, she advocates for a proactive approach to budgeting, suggesting that stylists take control of their finances by regularly reviewing their income and expenses. By fostering a positive mindset around budgeting, Heather aims to empower her audience to create a sustainable financial future in the beauty industry.Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Hair Hustle Podcast00:21 Reflecting on Financial Challenges00:43 The Importance of Budgeting Habits05:17 Understanding Income Fluctuations10:29 Changing Your Money Mindset14:12 Practical Steps for Budgeting19:23 Closing Thoughts and EncouragementKeywordsbudgeting, financial advice, beauty industry, salon owners, money management, hairstylists, financial habits, income stability, salon business coach, Hair Hustle Podcast

Contact Heather: helloheatherpod@gmail.comShow Notes Not working today! I had some technical errors, but here is the FREE new guest template I talked about!NEW GUEST TEMPLATE that actually gets guests!See you next week!

Contact Heather: helloheatherpod@gmail.comSummaryIn this episode of the Hair Hustle Podcast, host Heather Podlesney shares essential insights for stylists as they enter 2026. She emphasizes the importance of understanding profitability versus mere busyness, the necessity of charging appropriately for services, and the significance of setting healthy boundaries. Heather also encourages stylists to embrace their roles as CEOs of their businesses and to practice kindness in their interactions, recognizing that everyone faces challenges. This episode serves as a motivational guide for stylists to start the new year with clarity and purpose.Chapters00:00 Welcome to the Hair Hustle Podcast02:32 Setting the Stage for 202602:56 Understanding Profitability vs. Busyness05:48 The Importance of Charging What You Deserve07:51 Establishing Healthy Boundaries10:43 Embracing Your Role as CEO12:56 The Power of Kindness in the IndustryKeywordshair, salon, stylists, business coaching, profitability, boundaries, self-care, kindness, 2026 goals, beauty industry

This was the number 2 most downloaded episode of 2025! Number 1 was episode 51: When the Dream Team Ends. It is the end of my corporate journey, but I wanted the last episode to be something for you to take away and use now to make your year better! If you would like to give a listen to the end of my corporate journey, go for it! This is one is meant for you!Contact Heather at helloheatherpod@gmail.comSummaryIn this episode of the Hair Hustle Podcast, Heather Podlesney shares valuable insights on simplifying social media strategies for hairstylists. She emphasizes the importance of consistency, intentional posting, and creating a content plan that includes connection, education, and proof. Heather provides practical examples and tips to help stylists build trust, showcase their expertise, and engage with their audience effectively.Chapters00:00:00 Introduction to Social Media Strategy00:03:00 Creating a Content Plan00:06:00 Building Trust and Engagement00:09:00 Showcasing Expertise and Proof00:12:00 Conclusion and Final TipsKeywordsHair Hustle Podcast, social media strategy, hairstylists, consistency, content plan, connection, education, proof, Heather Podlesney, salon marketing

Contact Heather: helloheatherpod@gmail.comFollow @thehairhustle.podcast on IG and FBFREE 20 Minute RESET Checklist HERESummaryIn this episode of the Hair Hustle Podcast, host Heather Podlesney reflects on the past year and introduces a simple 20-minute reset process for stylists and salon owners to prepare for the upcoming year. She emphasizes the importance of reviewing key business metrics, setting non-negotiables, and choosing a theme for the year to foster growth and productivity. Heather encourages listeners to take actionable steps to improve their business and personal development as they transition into the new year.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Year-End Reflections02:36 The 20-Minute Year-End Reset Process05:23 Identifying Key Business Metrics07:49 Setting Non-Negotiables and Themes for the YearKeywordshair, beauty, salon, business coaching, year-end reset, personal development, stylist strategies, salon owner tips, productivity, growth

Contact Heather: helloheatherpod@gmail.comSummaryIn this episode of the Hair Hustle Podcast, host Heather Podlesney discusses the critical distinction between price and cost, emphasizing that the cheapest option may not always be the best choice for stylists and salon owners. She explores how purchasing decisions impact not only finances but also time and client experience. Heather encourages listeners to consider the long-term value of their purchases and to prioritize quality over price in order to enhance their business and client satisfaction.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Hair Hustle Podcast00:53 Understanding Price vs. Cost02:29 The Impact of Cheap Options07:56 Evaluating Value Over Price11:46 Key Questions for Smart PurchasesKeywordshair salon, price vs cost, business strategies, salon management, client experience, value over price, beauty industry, stylist tips, financial advice, salon coaching

Contact Heather: helloheatherpod@gmail.comSummaryIn this episode of the Hair Hustle Podcast, host Heather Podlesny discusses the emotional challenges faced by stylists in the beauty industry, particularly the feelings of shame and vulnerability that can arise during slower business periods. She emphasizes the importance of tracking numbers to combat these feelings and encourages stylists to reframe their mindset regarding market changes. The conversation also touches on the impact of social media on perceptions of success and the necessity of adapting to a more sustainable business model.Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Hair Hustle Podcast01:23 The Shame Game: Acknowledging Vulnerability04:52 Understanding Industry Trends and Emotional Impact09:59 Tracking Numbers: The Key to Overcoming Shame12:08 Adjusting to Market Changes: Reframing Expectations19:39 Strategies for Success: Embracing Change and GrowthKeywordsHair Hustle Podcast, beauty industry, shame, emotional impact, tracking numbers, market changes, sustainable business, salon strategies, stylist coaching, industry trends

Contact Host Heather: helloheatherpod@gmail.comContact Heather Spencer: heather@spencergellisesalon.comHeather Spencer's Leadership Workbook & Freebie: HERESummaryIn this episode of the Hair Hustle Podcast, host Heather Podlesney welcomes Heather Spencer, a seasoned beauty industry professional with over 27 years of experience. They discuss the importance of leadership in the salon environment, emphasizing the need for self-leadership as a foundation for leading others. Heather shares her journey from stylist to salon owner and educator, highlighting the challenges and lessons learned along the way. The conversation also touches on daily habits to avoid burnout, the significance of mindset, and the balance between family and career. Heather offers insights on establishing non-negotiables in life and the importance of setting boundaries to protect one's energy. The episode concludes with Heather introducing her leadership workbook, designed to help others define their leadership style and goals.Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Hair Hustle Podcast01:13 Heather Spencer's Journey in the Beauty Industry03:50 The Importance of Leadership in the Salon05:07 Leading Yourself First: The Foundation of Leadership09:27 Daily Habits for Stylists to Avoid Burnout12:02 Mindset and Energy in Client Interactions19:05 Problem Solving as a Key Leadership Skill21:51 Balancing Family and Leadership in the Beauty Industry25:44 The Trade-Offs of Flexibility28:00 Navigating Corporate Challenges29:54 The Journey of an Educator36:29 Establishing Non-Negotiables42:25 Setting Boundaries and Managing Energy46:45 Leadership Workbook InsightsKeywordsleadership, salon, beauty industry, self-care, burnout, family balance, daily habits, problem solving, non-negotiables, hairstylist

Contact Heather: helloheatherpod@gmail.comSummaryIn this episode of the Hair Hustle Podcast, Heather Podlesney discusses the importance of energy management for stylists, particularly during the busy holiday season. She introduces the concept of the $1,000 hour, emphasizing that stylists should value their time and energy as they would their earnings. Heather encourages listeners to identify energy leaks, set boundaries, and implement strategies to recharge and prevent burnout. The episode serves as a reminder for stylists to prioritize their well-being while navigating the demands of their profession.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Energy Management00:22 Understanding the $1,000 Hour Mindset01:54 Protecting Your Energy03:59 Identifying Energy Leaks05:38 Strategies to Recharge and RefocusKeywordsenergy management, $1000 hour, salon business, boundaries, burnout prevention, time management, self-care, productivity, salon strategies, holiday season

Contact Heather: helloheatherpod@gmail.comSummaryIn this episode of the Hair Hustle Podcast, host Heather Podlesny discusses the importance of planning and organization for stylists, especially during the chaotic holiday season. She emphasizes the need to transition from merely surviving to thriving by implementing effective scheduling and administrative practices. Heather introduces the 80-20 rule, encouraging stylists to focus on the most impactful tasks to enhance their productivity and well-being. The episode concludes with a motivational call to action for listeners to take control of their schedules and start winning instead of winging it.Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Hair Hustle Podcast00:28 Navigating the Holiday Chaos01:13 From Surviving to Thriving02:37 The Importance of Planning04:29 Implementing the 80-20 Rule06:10 Conclusion and Call to ActionKeywordshair hustle, salon business, planning, productivity, holiday season, stylist tips, time management, thriving, admin work, 80-20 rule

Contact Heather: helloheatherpod@gmail.comLink to full focus planner: HERESummaryIn this episode of the Hair Hustle Podcast, host Heather Podlesney discusses the importance of organization and time management for salon owners and busy professionals. She introduces the 'Big Three' method, a strategy designed to help individuals prioritize their tasks and reduce feelings of overwhelm. Heather emphasizes the significance of brain dumping to clear mental clutter and shares practical tips for implementing the Big Three in daily life. The episode concludes with encouragement to share the method with others who may benefit from improved organization.Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Hair Hustle Podcast00:25 Feeling Overwhelmed: The Need for Organization01:43 The Big Three: A Time Management Strategy03:53 The Importance of Prioritizing Tasks05:36 Brain Dump: Clearing Mental Clutter08:05 Creating Your Running List10:00 Conclusion and Call to ActionKeywordsorganization, time management, salon owners, productivity, big three method, mental clarity, overwhelm, planning, business strategies, self-care

Contact Heather: helloheatherpod@gmail.comFREE Take Control of your Money Worksheet HERESummaryIn this episode of the Hair Hustle Podcast, Heather Podlesney discusses the concept of 'chair money'—the income stylists retain after expenses. She emphasizes the importance of tracking finances, understanding income allocation, and managing expenses effectively. Heather provides practical advice on how to categorize income and expenses into three buckets, ensuring stylists can maintain financial health and achieve their goals. The episode concludes with tips on establishing a routine for financial tracking to reduce stress and enhance business management.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Chair Money01:27 Understanding Chair Money03:48 Tracking Your Income and Expenses08:03 The Three Buckets of Financial Management11:09 Using Data to Make Informed Decisions15:45 Establishing a Routine for Financial TrackingKeywordschair money, financial tracking, salon business, independent stylist, budgeting, salon expenses, income management, stylist coaching, salon profitability, salon growth

Contact Heather: helloheatherpod@gmail.comInterested in the $59 offer mentioned today? - Contact Joe! Contact Joe via email: joesileo1@gmail.com Contact Joe via phone: 201-739-0548Do Good Consulting Website: https://dogoodconsulting.co/In this episode of the Hair Hustle Podcast, host Heather Podlesney welcomes Joe Sileo, a seasoned professional in the beauty industry, to discuss the importance of mindfulness, human connection, and personal development for stylists and salon owners. Joe shares insights from his extensive experience in training and development, emphasizing the need for stylists to connect with their clients and avoid burnout through mindful practices. He introduces his upcoming program, 'Finish Strong, Start Unstoppable,' designed to help participants set and achieve their goals for the upcoming year while maintaining a balanced approach to their personal and professional lives.Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Hair Hustle Podcast02:35 Meet Joe Sileo: A Journey in Beauty Industry Training04:58 The Importance of Human Potential in the Beauty Industry10:24 Mindfulness: A Tool for Personal and Professional Growth16:51 Avoiding Burnout: Mindfulness Strategies for Stylists23:39 Mindful Planning: Finishing Strong and Starting Unstoppable32:53 The Journey of Connection and Reflection34:29 Nuggets of Wisdom: Staying Focused and Present36:46 The Importance of Connection in the Industry39:31 Letting Go: The Art of Not Picking Up Others' Burdens40:33 Moving Forward: Strategies for Progress44:41 Creating a Culture of Support: The Eight-Minute Rule46:17 Mindful Program Launch: Preparing for Success49:20 The Value of Information: Simplifying Learning52:08 Creating Unique Experiences in the Salon Industry55:26 Surviving and Thriving: Building Momentum for 202657:56 Procrastination: A Path to Mindfulness and ClarityKeywordsHair Hustle, beauty industry, mindfulness, salon owners, stylist training, Joe Sileo, burnout, human connection, personal development, salon culture

Contact Heather: helloheatherpod@gmail.comDream Client ExerciseHoliday EVERYTHING GuideSummaryIn this episode of the Hair Hustle Podcast, Heather Podlesney addresses the prevalent issue of social media burnout among stylists. She shares her personal experiences and insights on the challenges of content creation, emphasizing that feeling burnt out is common and not a reflection of one's abilities. Heather discusses various triggers of burnout, such as posting without purpose and the dangers of comparison, and offers practical strategies to combat these feelings. She encourages listeners to create content with intention, focus on connection rather than perfection, and provides creative content ideas to inspire engagement and growth in their social media presence.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Social Media Burnout07:20 Identifying Burnout Triggers14:18 Strategies to Combat Burnout18:07 Creating with Purpose and Planning24:39 Inspiration and Series IdeasKeywordssocial media burnout, content creation, hairstylist tips, salon marketing, social media strategies, creative content, burnout triggers, salon business, social media tips, hairstylist community

Contact Heather: helloheatherpod@gmail.comIn this episode of the Hair Hustle Podcast, Heather Podlesney discusses the enduring principles in the beauty industry that have remained constant despite changes over the years. She emphasizes the importance of relationships and connections with clients, the power of word-of-mouth referrals, the necessity of mastering one's craft, the reality of hard work behind the chair, and the significance of key indicators in salon business. Heather provides insights and tough love for stylists looking to thrive in their careers while maintaining a focus on what truly matters in the industry.00:00 Introduction to Hair Hustle Podcast02:47 Tried and True Principles in the Beauty Industry04:12 The Importance of Relationships and Connections07:02 The Power of Word of Mouth Referrals08:30 Mastering Your Craft: Skills That Matter12:55 The Reality of Hard Work Behind the Chair16:16 Key Indicators in Salon Businesshair hustle, salon business, beauty industry, relationships, referrals, craft mastery, hard work, key indicators, coaching, stylist success

Chapters00:00 Introduction to Changes in the Beauty Industry03:50 The Impact of Social Media and Marketing06:27 Advancements in Technology and Online Booking07:47 Evolution of Education and Accessibility12:05 Shifting Client Expectations15:23 Changes in Product Technology and Processing TimesKeywordsbeauty industry, social media, marketing, technology, client expectations, education, product technology, salon business, hairstyling, coaching

Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Journey04:33 Leaving Corporate America09:05 The Dream Job in Sales15:38 The Impact of COVID-1927:52 Realizations and Reflections30:36 Navigating Corporate Challenges35:12 Personal Transformations and New Beginnings39:58 Facing Uncertainty and Change45:55 Decisions and Reflections52:32 Lessons Learned and Moving ForwardKeywordsbeauty industry, corporate life, personal growth, career change, salon business, emotional journey, COVID-19 impact, entrepreneurship, self-care, empowerment