Nailtopia, inside with the insiders

In this episode, I’m joined by the amazing Danny, who I first met at the Scratch Stars Awards where he took home the title of Home Salon of the Year. Danny had been on my podcast wish list for quite some time, and our chat absolutely didn’t disappoint.We dive into a really important conversation about sustainability in the salon, what it means to run a more eco-friendly business, and Danny’s hopes for the future of a more sustainable beauty industry. He shares practical tips, honest reflections, and his passion for creating positive change within our industry.If you enjoy this episode, or any of the others, and would like to support the podcast, you can buy me a cuppa here: www.buymeacoffee.com/nailtopia. Every bit of support helps me keep bringing these important conversations to you.

In this episode, I’m joined by the brilliant Natasha, an incredible mentor and strategist who is helping nail techs achieve real, lasting success in their businesses.Natasha shares her insights into what her role as a business strategist actually involves, how she supports beauty professionals in building sustainable, profitable businesses, and most importantly, how to create a business that works for you, rather than feeling like you’re working for your business.It’s a practical, inspiring conversation full of useful takeaways for anyone looking to take more control over their business and build something that truly supports their goals and lifestyle.If you enjoy these chats and want to help me keep bringing them to you, you can show your support by buying me a cuppa at: www.buymeacoffee.com/nailtopia. It’s always appreciated!

In this episode, I have a really important and eye-opening conversation with Joanne Whitworth, all about wrist pain and the broader need to take care of our bodies while working in the nail industry.Joanne has been gathering valuable insights through a survey designed to understand just how widespread wrist conditions are among nail techs—and how much these issues can limit our working lives. We dive into her findings, talk about the real impact of these injuries, and Joanne shares some really useful advice and tips on how we can protect ourselves and reduce the strain on our bodies while doing the work we love.This is one of those episodes that every nail tech should hear—because looking after yourself is just as important as looking after your clients.If you’ve enjoyed this chat, or any of the other episodes, you can show your support and help me keep these important conversations going by buying me a cuppa at: www.buymeacoffee.com/nailtopia

In this episode, I had the absolute privilege of experiencing something truly unique—thanks to Alex Fox and the Nail Safari team, I was invited down to Shepreth Wildlife Park to spend the day observing the incredible 2023 Nail Safari.This week-long event is unlike anything else, not just here in the UK, but anywhere in the world. It brings together some of the best in the industry for a completely immersive, one-of-a-kind educational experience, all set within the amazing surroundings of a wildlife park.Join me as I chat with the organisers, team leaders, educators, and the “rangers” themselves, and get a real feel for the energy, passion, and creativity that makes Nail Safari so special.If you enjoy this episode and love hearing these kinds of behind-the-scenes stories, you can show your support by buying me a cuppa at: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/nailtopia It helps me keep bringing these conversations to life.

In this episode, we’re coming to you live from the 2023 Scratch Stars Awards party, held at the fabulous UnderGlobe on London’s iconic South Bank.I had the chance to chat with some of the night’s amazing winners, party-goers, and industry legends, plus a quick catch-up with the evening’s brilliant host, Jamie Laing, and the incredible musical guest, Louisa Johnson.It was a night packed with celebration, energy, and so much love for the nail community, one you won’t want to miss.If you enjoy these behind-the-scenes chats and want to support the podcast, you can buy me a cuppa here: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/nailtopia. Every little bit helps to keep these conversations coming!

We are back—live from the Scratch Stars Party 2022!In this special episode, I take you behind the scenes of one of the biggest nights in the nail industry. You’ll hear from the wonderful Helena Biggs, our host for the evening, the brilliant Scott Mills, along with some of the night’s incredible winners and industry icons.It’s an evening full of celebration, excitement, and well-deserved recognition for the amazing talent we have in this industry.If you enjoy these chats and love being part of the buzz, you can show your support by buying me a cuppa here: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/nailtopia It really does help keep these conversations going!

In this episode, I had the absolute joy of catching up with some of the evening’s incredible winners, including Metta Francis, Kylea Wherry, and Ewa Krzos. I also chatted with Scratch’s very own Helena Biggs, the brilliant Sam Biddle and Melanie Lewendon as they reflected on what it means to pass on the ‘Be Inspired’ baton to the next generation of nail professionals. And of course, I spoke with the amazing Liza Smith, who was honoured with the highly prestigious Services to the Industry award—an award that couldn’t have gone to a more deserving person.It was a fun-filled, slightly tipsy evening, surrounded by laughter, celebration, and so much love for our industry.If you’ve enjoyed Nailtopia, Inside with the Insiders, and these little behind-the-scenes moments, you can show your support by buying me a cuppa here: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/nailtopia

In this episode, I have the absolute pleasure of chatting with one of my real-life friends. We recorded this on a beautiful, sunny day, sitting together in the park, and even after knowing her for years, I found myself learning new things about her journey.She opens up about the challenges she faced early in life, sharing her story of resilience, determination, and a deep belief in fate—fate that not only led her to the nail industry but also, thankfully, brought her right to the door of my salon.It’s a raw, honest, and truly inspiring conversation about overcoming adversity, finding your purpose, and building a life you love. This is one of those episodes that reminds you of the strength people carry and how incredible things can happen when you follow your passion.If you enjoy this chat and want to show your support, you can always buy me a cuppa here: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/nailtopia.

In this episode, I’m joined by Rebecca, the owner of Finicki Nails and a respected educator with Nail Artists UK. Throughout her career, Rebecca has earned multiple industry awards and built a reputation for both her exceptional nail artistry and her commitment to high standards in education.We dive into Rebecca’s journey—how she found her place in the nail industry, the experiences that shaped her career, and the lessons she’s learned along the way. She also shares valuable advice for those who are just starting out or considering a career in nails, offering practical insights and encouragement from someone who has worked her way to the top.This conversation is a must-listen for anyone passionate about the nail industry or looking for inspiration from someone who has successfully turned their passion into a thriving business and teaching career.If you enjoy the episode, you can show your support by buying me a cuppa at: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/nailtopia.

In this episode, I’m joined by someone very special to me, Liz Firth of EMF training in Barnsley. Not only is she a good friend, but I’ve worked with her in her academy, and I’ve seen first-hand her incredible knowledge, professionalism, and genuine care for others. Liz isn’t just someone I admire in the industry, she’s someone I personally trusted to teach and mentor my own daughter when she decided to follow in my footsteps. That’s how much faith I have in her skills as both a beauty professional and an educator.In our chat, Liz opens up about her journey, how she transitioned from working in salons to becoming a full-time educator, running a thriving training academy, and developing a real passion for teaching and uplifting others in the industry. We talk about the shifts she’s seen in the beauty world, where she thinks things are heading, and even reflect on what she’d be doing if she ever chose a completely different path.This conversation really highlights the heart of what makes Liz so inspiring—her love for growth, her commitment to high standards, and her belief in always giving back to the industry.If you enjoy this episode, it would mean the world if you supported the podcast by buying me a cuppa here: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/nailtopia.

In this episode, I’m joined by the incredible Denise Wright, director of the Denise Wright Nail Academy, owner of Perfect 10 salon in Hartley, product developer with NSI, and competition director for multiple major nail competitions. Denise has truly done it all, and I was so excited to sit down and hear her story.We chat about her long, successful, and inspiring career in the nail industry, from working behind the chair to educating future nail professionals, developing products, and leading the way in nail competitions. Denise also shares some brilliant advice, words of wisdom, and insights that any nail professional—whether just starting out or years in—will definitely want to hear.If you’ve enjoyed this episode and would like to support the podcast, you can buy me a cuppa at https://www.buymeacoffee.com/nailtopia. Your support really helps me keep sharing these amazing conversations with industry legends like Denise, thank you for listening!

In this episode, I’m joined by the lovely Nataliya, who shares the story of her incredible journey into the nail industry and how she recently landed her absolute dream job with the company she credits for shaping her career and sparking her love for the profession.We talk about her early life growing up in Ukraine, the experiences that led her to move to the UK, and the heartwarming, romantic reason she decided to stay and make it her home. It’s such a feel-good conversation, full of inspiration, resilience, and a real love for the industry that shines through everything Nataliya does.If you’ve enjoyed listening to this episode and want to show a little support, you can buy me a cuppa at https://www.buymeacoffee.com/nailtopia. Every bit of support helps me keep sharing these stories and building this amazing community—thank you so much for listening!

In this episode, I’m chatting with the brilliant Denise, the UK’s only salon-only lease negotiator and specialist surveyor. Denise gives us a fascinating insight into what her unique role involves, why every salon owner should have someone like her in their corner, and how she helps beauty professionals navigate everything from opening a salon, to renegotiating leases, to handling rent reviews.We also dive into the heart-warming reason why Denise decided to focus solely on the beauty industry, and how her personal experiences shaped her mission to support salon owners. I absolutely loved how open and unapologetically herself Denise is throughout this chat—it’s refreshing, insightful, and full of useful takeaways for anyone in the industry.If you’ve enjoyed this episode and the other conversations I’ve shared, you can support the podcast by buying me a cuppa at https://www.buymeacoffee.com/nailtopia. Your support helps me keep these chats going and bring you more useful, real-life stories from incredible people like Denise—thank you for listening!

In this episode, I’m joined by the wonderful Emma Kilani—award-winning nail artist, educator, and the original founder of Emoki, the brand behind the much-loved cuticle oils and the popular nail art planner.Emma shares her inspiring story of how she found her way into the nail industry, her journey moving to the UK and settling in Scotland, and the passion that led her to create Emoki. We have a really honest, down-to-earth chat about life in the nail world, the creative process, and the ups and downs along the way.Since recording this episode, Emma has decided to step away from the nail industry to pursue new adventures. I’m incredibly proud (and a little emotional!) to share that Steven and I have now taken over Emoki. It’s such an honour to continue the legacy Emma started, and we’re really excited to keep growing the brand while staying true to the heart and passion she poured into it.If you enjoy these kinds of conversations and would like to support the podcast, you can buy me a cuppa at https://www.buymeacoffee.com/nailtopia. Your support means the world and helps me keep bringing these stories to life—thank you so much for listening!

In this episode, I’m joined by the brilliant Katie Clarke who shares her fascinating journey into the nail industry. We chat about how she first got started in nails, and how her competitive drive and need for specialised tools led her to create her own line of professional nail tools—designed by a nail tech, for nail techs.Katie also talks about how the now well-loved KB Glow was born during lockdown, filling a gap in the market when we all had to adapt in new ways. She gives us a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to compete at a high level, explaining what judges really look for and offering tips on scoring in competitions. Plus, we have a fun chat about the dream jobs she had as a child, and how life brought her to where she is today.If you enjoy these kinds of chats and want to support the podcast, you can buy me a cuppa at https://www.buymeacoffee.com/nailtopia. Your support means so much and helps me continue sharing stories like Katie’s, thank you for listening!

In this episode, I’m joined by the incredible Sam Biddle, the creative force behind Be Inspired with Sam Biddle. Sam shares her journey into the nail world, how her love of art was the driving force that led her into the industry, and how she’s built a career blending creativity with education.We talk about the evolution of Be Inspired, her vision for the future of the brand, and the importance of accessible, high-quality education for nail professionals everywhere. Sam also shares insights into her Be Inspired online nail art courses, and how she’s helping nail artists tap into their creativity from anywhere in the world.And if you’ve been enjoying these conversations, you can support the podcast by buying me a cuppa at https://www.buymeacoffee.com/nailtopia. Every bit of support helps me continue bringing inspiring stories like this to you—thank you for listening!

In this episode, I have the pleasure of chatting with Victoria, who shares her amazing journey from her home country of Cyprus to building a life and career here in England. Victoria opens up about the different roles and jobs she had before discovering her true calling in the nail industry, and how each step along the way helped shape her path.We talk about how she found her passion for teaching and the many different hats she’s worn within the industry—bringing knowledge, guidance, and inspiration to others in the nail community. It’s a great conversation for anyone curious about the different directions a career in nails can take you, and how diverse and rewarding this industry can really be.If you’ve been enjoying these episodes and would like to support the podcast, you can buy me a cuppa over at https://www.buymeacoffee.com/nailtopia. Your support really helps me keep bringing these stories to life—thank you so much for listening

In this episode, I’m joined by the wonderful Carol, who shares her inspiring story of finding her way into the nail industry later in life. Carol talks openly about how, even though it wasn’t her first career path, she’s discovered that this is truly the job she was meant to do—and how it’s allowed her creativity and passion for art to really come alive.We dive into what it’s been like for her transitioning into the industry, including her big move to South Africa and how life has changed since settling there. Carol also opens up about her hopes for the future and the goals she’s working towards. Plus, we touch on some of those classic, evergreen topics for anyone who might be thinking about a career in nails or looking for a fresh start.If you’re enjoying these conversations and would like to support the podcast, you can buy me a cuppa over at https://www.buymeacoffee.com/nailtopia. Every bit of support helps me continue bringing you these amazing stories—thank you for listening

In this episode, I’m beyond excited to sit down with one of my biggest inspirations in the nail industry—Holly Schippers, also known to many as the Fingernail Fixer. Holly has been a respected figure in the nail world for years, and in our conversation, she opens up about how she first got started in the industry, what initially drew her to nails, and the path her career has taken since.We dive into how she’s continuously evolved, the importance of ongoing education, and how she’s found ways to tailor her learning journey to match her own personal style. Holly also shares valuable insights for nail professionals at every stage of their career—whether you’re just starting out or looking to refresh your passion for the craft.Plus, you’ll hear a special exclusive about a product she was just about to launch. If you enjoy these kinds of conversations and want to support me in creating more episodes like this, you can treat me to a cuppa over at https://www.buymeacoffee.com/nailtopia. Every little bit helps keep this podcast going—thank you for listening and being part of this community

In this episode, Helen bravely pushes past her inner critic and those all-too-familiar cringe feelings to share her personal story—raw, honest, and unfiltered. She takes us through the early days of launching her business from scratch, balancing entrepreneurship with motherhood, and all the messy, beautiful moments in between.It’s a candid and uplifting conversation about overcoming self-doubt, navigating insecurities, and finding the courage to pursue your dreams. Whether you’re a fellow business owner, a parent, or just someone trying to figure it all out, Helen’s journey will leave you feeling seen and inspired.If you find value in this episode, I’d love your support—consider buying me a cuppa at: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/nailtopia