In this episode we sit down with Mercedes “Merci,” owner of The Wax Scene in San Antonio, for a no-nonsense conversation about waxing without the sexualized content, building a real, loyal clientele, pricing and boundaries (including how she handles male services by referral only), money discipline, parenting, travel, and the uncomfortable conversations that make friendships—and businesses—stronger.If you’re an esthetician, waxer, or beauty pro who wants a sustainable business (not just trending clips), you’ll love this one.*WHAT YOU'LL LEARN*Waxing ≠ clickbait. Why oversexualized content attracts the wrong audience—and what to post instead (education, hygiene, prep tips).Male services, done right. Why Merci offers Brazilians by referral only, red flags to watch for, and safe referral practices.Niche smart, not wide. Focus on what’s fast, profitable, and aligned with your strengths (like waxing + brow lamination).Referrals still win. Word-of-mouth builds loyalty better than filters—especially with clients off social media.Money mindset reset. Ditch the “broke mentality,” tie expenses to goals, and build financial discipline in business and life.Friendship in business. How hard conversations and different work styles can build stronger partnerships.Work to live. Take real time off, be present for your kids, and remember why you started your beauty business.*SECTIONS*00:00 Welcome back + who is Merci (The Wax Scene)02:05 Waxing without the hype: why sexualized content hurts your brand05:20 Boundaries & consent: how Merci handles male services (referral-only)08:40 Niche over everything: choosing services that fit your speed and margins12:30 Classes, shows & continuing ed: when to say yes (and when to stop buying)16:05 Soft vs. hard wax, technique talk, and learning from younger esties20:10 Word-of-mouth over filters: building a client base that actually returns24:15 Money discipline: from shopping habits to business goals that stick29:00 Credit cards, fees, and the courage to charge cancellation/no-show policies33:30 “Broke mentality” vs. sustainable growth (and how it spills into personal life)38:45 Parenting, presence, and taking a real vacation without panic44:15 Friendship, conflict, and coming back stronger after a rough patch51:20 Smooth Connections: lessons learned from producing a live show56:40 What’s next for The Wax Scene: 1:1 education & mentoring plans1:02:30 Where to find Merci + Cristal’s final thoughts*KEY TAKEAWAYS*1) Educate, don’t sexualize. Avoid POV shots or uncovered angles that invite the wrong audience and risk your platform. Focus on prep, aftercare, and real results.2) Protect your peace. Keep sensitive services referral-only if needed, and prepare a referral list or clear policy script.3) Specialize to scale. Profit grows when you stick to what you love and can do efficiently.4) Make classes pay off. Only invest in courses or tools that support clear revenue goals.5) Word-of-mouth wins. Ask for referrals, stay professional, and connect directly with clients who aren’t online.6) Enforce your policies. Charge no-shows and cancellations—your time is your income.7) Do the inner work. Drop the broke mindset. Budget, track, and build smart credit habits.8) Relationships matter. Honest, in-person conversations build stronger friendships and business partnerships.🖥 *Follow Us for More:**Connect with us on Social Media*https://www.instagram.com/beautyboundtx/https://www.facebook.com/BeautyBoundTXhttps://www.tiktok.com/@beauty.bound*Cristal Rubio* (Beauty Pro Bookkeeping): https://www.instagram.com/beautyprobookkeeping | https://www.beautyprobookkeeping.com*Filmed & Produced by:* Peachtree Rose Marketing: https://peachtreerosemarketing.com | https://www.instagram.com/podcaststudiosatx | https://www.instagram.com/peachtreerosemarketing | Matt Nelson: https://www.instagram.com/officialmattnelsonChapters