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The Messy Hairstylist
Whether you are a mess literally OR figuratively we are here to help you take imperfect action to find your success as a hairstylist. Each week we deep dive in to tough topics to address the struggles we face in our industry. We push the boundaries, break the stereotypes and go hard against the "norms" that make us feel inferior.
Episodes
119 episodes
Do You Tone to Fix or to Finish?
Bright hair doesn’t happen by accident; it happens when you choose your toner with purpose. We unpack a simple system that turns toning from confusing to clear: identify the true lift after the rinse, read the remaining pigment, then decide whe...
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23:22
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The Hidden Cost of Success
We’re pulling back the curtain on what it really costs to “make it” in the salon industry. From decision fatigue and imposter syndrome to mom guilt, comparison traps, and the physical toll of staying booked and busy—we’re talking about...
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27:40
What Your Color Bowl Says About You
This week, we’re calling out color bowl personalities—because @domyhairdrew nailed it and we had to weigh in. If you've ever felt seen (or personally attacked) by your styling tools, this one’s for you. 🎨💀 Watch the Reel we're talk...
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14:46
Back-to-School, Blonding & a Summer Reset
Kelsey and Abby are back from summer break with fresh energy and big updates. From their new partnership with Sunlights to the back-to-school rush that’s busier than the holidays, they share real talk on balancing life, salon chaos, and smarter...
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19:38
The Education Evolution: Finding Classes in a Changing Industry
Ever feel like quality hairstyling education has become impossible to find? You're not alone. After a brief podcast hiatus (our sincere apologies!), we're tackling the dramatically changed landscape of professional education while sharing our e...
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20:44
Your Hairstylist Season: Which One Are You In?
Every stylist goes through seasons—times of rapid growth, total burnout, quiet rebuilding, or big, bold change. In this episode, we’re breaking down the four phases of a stylist’s career (spring, summer, fall, and winter) and what each one can ...
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35:15
Dear Messy, Help! I'm Opening a Salon and No One's Applying.
In this “Dear Messy” episode, Abby and Kelsey team up to answer a message from a nail tech who’s opening a full salon — but struggling to find the right team.Together, they unpack practical, creative, and realistic ways to appro...
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24:24
How One Simple Strategy Helped Me (and My Protégé) Book 11 New Clients
I booked 6 new clients in 2 weeks. My Protégé Stylist booked 5. And the best part? We didn’t spend a dime on ads.In this solo episode, I’m breaking down the super simple email + social media strategy I’ve been using since Decemb...
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27:33
How to Actually Find a Mentor (Even If You Don’t Have One Yet)
It’s just Abby on the mic today while Kelsey is enjoying spring break with her kids—and we’re diving into a super real question from a listener: “How do I find a mentor?”Abby’s sharing how she went over 10 years in her career be...
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23:28
The 30-Day Waitlist: How to Go from Overlooked to Overbooked with Instagram Ads
Are you tired of relying on word-of-mouth and hoping new clients magically find you? In this episode, We are sitting down with Stephanie Mitchell, marketing expert and Instagram & Facebook ads strategist for beauty pros. She’s sharin...
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42:09
Are You Forgetting About Your Bread & Butter Clients?
No one’s asking, “How do I market to my bread & butter clients?” anymore. It’s all about the big blonding transformations—but is that really the best long-term strategy? So many stylists are ditching gray coverage and routine color...
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20:04
Did Hair School Prepare You for Reality? Here’s What They Don’t Teach
Kelsey and Abby unpack the reality of transitioning from beauty school to salon life, tackling essential topics that aren't covered in classrooms. They dive into emotional intelligence, finding the right job, managing finances, and building cli...
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29:44
Thriving in Hairdressing After Time Away
This episode of Messy Hairstylist Podcast explores actionable strategies for stylist success, particularly for those returning after a career break. We discuss essential tools like mindset, visibility, the right salon environment, competitive p...
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41:38
What Starbucks Just Did & Why Hairstylists Should Take Notes!
Starbucks just made some bold changes—trimming their menu, reimagining the customer experience, and bringing back small but impactful touches. But what does this have to do with hairstylists? A LOT. In this episode, We are breaking down how the...
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25:52
Embarrassing Salon Moments We’ve All Had!
This episode dives into the hilarious and embarrassing moments that happen in salons, highlighting the messy side of hairstyling that stylists often never talk about. Kelsey and Abbey share personal stories while encouraging listeners to find h...
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22:41
Is a Guilt-Free Maternity Leave a thing?
This episode explores the balancing act of being a hairstylist and a mother, addressing the guilt and challenges that come with managing both roles. We delve into strategies for coping with maternity leave expectations, emotional struggles, and...
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23:47
Would You Rather? Hairstylist Edition
We explore the everyday challenges hairstylists face from silent clients to nitpickers. By engaging in fun “Would You Rather” scenarios, we unpack the lessons learned from client interactions and offer practical tips for connecting with those w...
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28:56
What Are Your Ins & Outs for 2025?
Embracing the spirit of a new year, this episode discusses what's "in" and "out" for hairstylists in 2025, centering on intentional rest, financial awareness, and nurturing client relationships. As stylists, we explore the significance of authe...
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31:57
Unlocking Success: Morgan's Journey from Beauty School to Salon Owner
Morgan, a 25-year-old salon owner, shares her journey from a young stylist to a business owner, emphasizing that financial success does not guarantee happiness. The discussion touches on the importance of finding purpose beyond profit, achievin...
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31:42
THIS Needs to Be Your 2025 Strategy for Success
What if the key to skyrocketing your salon’s success in 2025 was right in front of you? In this episode, we dive into why nurturing your current clients is the smartest strategy for sustainable growth. From exclusive VIP perks to creative loyal...
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22:58
Transforming Your Salon with The Four Agreements
Discover how The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz can transform your salon's culture and dynamics. In this episode, we share personal stories of transitioning to a more structured, values-driven approach that fosters growth and harmo...
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23:23
Weathering Financial Storms: Creative Solutions for Stylists During the Holidays
How can hairstylists maintain financial stability during the hectic holiday season or unexpected challenges? This episode of The Messy Hairstylist Podcast dives into personal stories of navigating illness, financial stress, and client ...
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22:50
Building Trust with Your Clients with Hunter Donia
How does a seemingly small $5 price increase have the power to impact client relationships in today's hairstyling industry? Join us as Hunter returns to share insights on navigating the challenges of price transparency amidst economic uncertain...
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20:03