The Modern Hairstylist ™ Podcast

In this episode of The Modern Hairstylist Podcast, host Hunter Donia shares strategies for hairstylists who are feeling burned out or overwhelmed by the demands of running a business. If you're struggling to balance behind-the-chair work with the constant hustle of business growth, this episode is for you. Hunter discusses how to take a break from your business without letting it stagnate or lose momentum, and how building the right systems can help you recharge without sacrificing your success.

Key Takeaways:

In this episode of The Modern Hairstylist Podcast, Hunter Donia dives into the potential effects of a Trump presidency on the beauty industry. This candid and analytical discussion explores how policies on tariffs, tax cuts, healthcare, immigration, and deregulation could shape the cost of doing business, consumer behavior, and the overall landscape of the beauty profession. Hunter shares both the challenges and opportunities that may arise, offering thoughtful insights for beauty professionals navigating these uncertain times.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

In this week's episode of The Modern Hairstylist, I'm diving into five key lessons I learned while scaling a multi-six-figure beauty business. Whether you're running a busy chair or eyeing new avenues for growth, these insights will be game-changers. We'll talk about evolving from simply building a stable client base to making strategic decisions that push your business to the next level.

Expect a breakdown of the “boring but crucial” tasks that fuel growth, why investing in the right team and resources is non-negotiable, and how buying back your time strategically can elevate both your business and pers...

Welcome back to The Modern Hairstylist Podcast! In this episode, we’re diving into essential time management strategies to help you stay focused, organized, and productive as an independent hairstylist. We know that balancing client appointments with managing your business can feel overwhelming, but with the right approach, you can stay on top of it all without the stress.

Starting with a powerful exercise to illustrate the impact of multitasking, we’ll explore how setting clear, specific goals can make a huge difference in your daily focus. I’ll guide you on how to break down your goals...

Welcome back to The Modern Hairstylist Podcast! As the holiday rush hits, it’s essential to protect your well-being while managing the unique demands this season brings. In this episode, we dive into boundary-setting strategies that every independent hairstylist should have in their toolkit to prevent burnout and keep the focus on what matters most. We’ll talk about the importance of taking time for yourself, effective ways to navigate client and family requests without stretching yourself too thin, and tips for creating a holiday schedule that honors both your business goals and personal needs.

This episode is p...

The holiday season is officially upon us, and for many beauty professionals, it's the busiest time of year. But does busy have to mean burnout? In this special re-air, we dive into how to maximize your profit during the holidays—without working more hours or sacrificing your well-being.

In this episode, we’ll unpack why this time of year brings such a rush of clients and why it’s not just about working harder to make more money. We’ll discuss key strategies that focus on using what you already have in place—your current clients, retail products...

As we approach 2025, client expectations are shifting, and independent hairstylists need to be prepared. In this episode, I dive into the latest trends shaping our industry, including the importance of price transparency and how to adapt your pricing strategy to build trust. We’ll also explore how creating content that connects directly with your clients’ pain points can set you apart, and why showcasing your salon experience might not be as effective as you think.

On top of that, we touch on the role of sustainability in salons. Is it essential to go eco-friendly, or does it depe...

In this episode of The Modern Hairstylist Podcast, Hunter Donia dives deep into a game-changing topic that many hairstylists overlook: the massive potential of selling retail products and add-ons. Hunter starts by asking a thought-provoking question: What would an extra $10,000 in revenue do for you? He emphasizes that this isn't a distant dream, but an achievable reality by spending just a few extra minutes with each client.

Key Takeaways:

LEARN MORE ABOUT PRE-VISIT PATHWAY

In this episode of The Modern Hairstylist Podcast, host Hunter Donia breaks down the key challenges hairstylists face in their journey to success and how adopting systems and automations can revolutionize their careers. Whether you're just starting out or navigating the next level of your business, understanding these two critical phases will help you achieve true work-life balance and sustainable wealth.

Episode Highlights:

1. The Two Phases of Struggle for Hairstylists

Hunter discusses the two major phases every hairstylist must navigate...

Have a question for Hunter? A topic you'd like him to talk about? Feedback? Text us here!

 In this special episode, Hunter Donia takes us behind the scenes of his signature program, PreVisit Pathway (PVP), which has helped over a thousand hairstylists streamline and automate their beauty businesses. With doors to the program reopening, Hunter shares exclusive audio from the three most popular modules that students rave about. Whether you're a seasoned pro or new to the concept of automation in your beauty business, this episode is packed with actionable insights that will elevate your client experience a...

Welcome back to The Modern Hairstylist podcast! Today, we’re diving into a topic that can make or break your client relationships—response time. In a world where instant communication is expected, being slow to respond to new or existing clients can cost you business. But here's the thing: you don't need to be available 24/7 to provide great customer service. Instead, it's all about leveraging the right tools to respond quickly while keeping your boundaries intact.

In this episode, I’ll walk you through smart strategies to speed up your response times without sacrificing your work-life balance. From u...

Are you spending too much time perfecting your client experience but still struggling to get new clients? In this episode of The Modern Hairstylist Podcast, we talk through the biggest distraction in our industry that’s holding you back from growing your clientele.

While an incredible client experience is essential, it's not the key to attracting new clients—especially if you’re focusing on the wrong details. Today, we’re diving into why so many hairstylists are stuck trying to prove their value through luxurious add-ons and missing the mark on what truly matters: showing your clients that you...

If you're finding yourself in the challenging position of being so booked that you can't fit in new clients, this episode of The Modern Hairstylist Podcast is a must-listen for you. While it may seem like a great problem to have, being unable to accommodate new clients can actually be a significant hurdle to your growth and future stability.

In this episode, we dive into practical strategies that will help you manage your fully booked schedule without needing to hire additional help. From leveraging the principles of supply and demand to restructuring your services, I’ll share ac...

Welcome back to The Modern Hairstylist Podcast! If you’ve ever wondered how to keep your clients coming back, this episode is for you. We’re diving into high-level strategies that can immediately boost your client retention and keep your business thriving.

In this episode, we’ll focus on three key areas of the client journey: the pre-visit experience, the in-chair experience, and the post-visit experience. Each of these moments offers a unique opportunity to make a lasting impact on your clients, ensuring they return to your chair time and time again. Whether it’s making the booking...

In this week's episode of The Modern Hairstylist Podcast, we dive deep into one of the most crucial aspects of running a successful salon business: client retention. This episode offers an inside look of how to unpack why clients may be leaving and what you can do to keep them coming back.

We start by discussing the industry standards for new client retention and why you should aim higher than the average. I share my insights on why it’s essential to track your retention rates accurately, especially for new clients, and how to set realistic benchmarks th...

Welcome back to The Modern Hairstylist Podcast! In this episode, we dive into a private one-on-one coaching session where we tackle two pressing challenges hairstylists face today: dealing with burnout and overcoming the fear and guilt associated with raising prices.

Join me as I guide Stefanie, a member of Modern Stylist Movement, through the process of redefining her business strategies and finding balance. If you've ever felt anxious about increasing your prices or struggled with feeling overwhelmed in your salon business, this episode offers valuable insights and practical advice.

Stefanie shares her journey of managing...

In this episode of The Modern Hairstylist Podcast, I'm joined again by Rob from the Hairdresser Strong Show and Katie Schoenrock, owner of Boss Lady Salon, to tackle a tough but important topic: dealing with colleagues or work-environments that can be unideal. If you've ever faced challenges with coworkers or felt stuck in a negative work situation, this conversation is for you.

We explore practical strategies for managing these situations, from having open and honest conversations to aligning with your salon's core values. Katie, Rob and I share our experiences and insights, offering valuable advice on maintaining...

Hey there, friends! In this episode of The Modern Hairstylist Podcast, I'm joined by Rob from the Hairdresser Strong Show and Katie Schoenrock, owner of Boss Lady Salon.

We're tackling the important issue of how to set boundaries in your hairstyling business based on your structure as a hairstylist. We talk about why it's crucial to have clear policies and boundaries to enhance professionalism and customer service.

We also share our personal experiences and practical advice on how to balance accommodating clients while maintaining your business standards. The three of us can agree that there...

Welcome back to The Modern Hairstylist Podcast! This week, we're focusing on a crucial topic for independent hairstylists: managing new ideas, juggling projects, and handling burnout. I'm joined once again by the insightful Lisa Huff, and we're here to share practical advice that can help you thrive in your business without feeling overwhelmed.

After our enlightening discussion last week about "woo-woo" in the beauty industry, Lisa and I are shifting our attention to the everyday challenges that hairstylists face. We talk about how to prioritize new ideas, ensuring that you're focusing on what will truly...

In this episode of The Modern Hairstylist Podcast, I had an eye-opening chat with the incredible Lisa Huff. We dove into a topic that's been buzzing around our industry: the concept of "woo-woo." Now, if you're wondering what that even means, you're not alone. We broke down the different interpretations, from meditation and energy healing to crystals and manifestation, and shared our honest perspectives on how these practices fit into our personal and professional lives.

Lisa and I explored the fine line between staying grounded in reality and embracing the more mystical aspects of our...

Welcome back to The Modern Hairstylist Podcast. If you're a hairstylist or salon owner tired of the constant hustle of marketing yourself to attract new clients, this episode is perfect for you. Today, we're diving into Search Engine Optimization (SEO) and how you can use it to get found online without relying heavily on social media.

Are you frustrated with social media marketing, or do you have clients who find you through Google searches rather than Instagram? We'll explore the fundamentals of SEO, providing you with actionable tips to improve your online visibility and rank higher in...

Welcome back to The Modern Hairstylist Podcast. In today’s episode, we’re diving deep into a topic many independent hairstylists face: people-pleasing. We’re breaking down the three types of people-pleasing hairstylists and sharing practical boundary-setting tips for each type to help you regain control and balance in your salon business.

Are you always saying "yes" to every client request, even when it means compromising your own time and well-being? Or maybe you find it tough to enforce your policies because you’re afraid of upsetting your clients? If any of this sounds familiar, this episode is tailo...

Welcome back to The Modern Hairstylist podcast! In this episode, we dive deep into the world of curly hair with the incredible Martina Nicholas, a texture expert and educator who is revolutionizing the industry. Martina shares her personal journey of embracing her natural curls after years of straightening treatments and how it transformed her career. Her passion for educating others on proper curly hair care is evident as she debunks common myths and misconceptions about texture and curly hair, offering invaluable insights that every hairstylist should know.

One major highlight of our conversation was Martina’s...

In this episode of The Modern Hairstylist Podcast, I delve into the current trends in social media marketing for hairstylists, urging you to shift your focus from mere engagement to strategies that drive real financial results. I passionately address the common misconceptions and misleading advice prevalent in the industry, providing a clear, analytical perspective on how to effectively utilize social media to attract and retain clients.

I emphasize the importance of not getting caught up in the latest algorithm changes or trends that promise high engagement but fail to translate into bookings and revenue. Instead...

Welcome back to The Modern Hairstylist podcast! In this episode, we'll explore how to determine if you're ready to hire a virtual assistant, social media manager, or any other support for your business. Last week, we focused on hiring personal salon assistants, but today we're diving into the behind-the-scenes roles that can alleviate your administrative burden. As someone who has managed and trained up to seven employees, I've learned through experience and education what it takes to lead effectively. If you're feeling overwhelmed with tasks beyond your hairstyling, this episode is for you.

Firstly, it's...

Hey there, friend! Welcome back to The Modern Hairstylist Podcast. Today, we're diving into a crucial question: "How do I know when I’m ready to hire a personal salon assistant?" Drawing from my own experiences and lessons learned, I'm here to help you navigate this significant decision.

In this episode, we explore why hiring a personal assistant can be a game-changer for your salon business, freeing up your time and boosting your income. But it's not all smooth sailing; we also delve into the realities and responsibilities that come with being a leader. Are yo...

Welcome back to The Modern Hairstylist Podcast! In this episode, we are speaking about strategies for those tricky clients and setting clear expectations. As hairstylists, we pride ourselves on our communication skills, but sometimes the data tells a different story. Did you know that while 87% of hairstylists claim they always conduct a consultation, only 7% of clients feel they've had one? This episode is all about bridging that gap and ensuring your consultations are foolproof, even with the most challenging clients.

Miscommunication can lead to unhappy clients, negative reviews, and unwanted extra work like redoes or...

Welcome back to The Modern Hairstylist Podcast. If marketing your beauty business feels like an overwhelming, time-consuming beast, this episode is your lifesaver. Today, I’m sharing my no-BS strategies to make your marketing efforts simpler and more effective so you can reclaim your time, energy, and sanity.

Does it feel like you’re spinning your wheels trying to be everywhere at once on social media? I’ve been there. The first problem we tackle is focusing your marketing efforts. You’ll learn how to identify where your ideal clients hang out and put your energy i...

Welcome back to The Modern Hairstylist Podcast! Today I am so excited to chat with Mattea Hunter about a topic that touches many of us in the beauty industry—imposter syndrome. Mattea is a seasoned beauty pro with nearly 20 years under her belt, spanning roles from makeup artist to hairstylist, and now a transformative coach. Get ready to uncover the secrets to overcoming those nagging doubts that you’re not good enough and learn to step into your power with confidence!

Mattea breaks down the nitty-gritty of imposter syndrome—what it is, how it manifests, and most i...

If you've been struggling with setting the perfect prices for your beauty business, this episode of The Modern Hairstylist Podcast is perfect for you. I share some tips on pricing strategies to ensure you're not just making ends meet, but thriving in your business. Since pricing is often a major sticking point for many beauty professionals, I address common issues and provide actionable advice to make pricing work for you.

I dive into the topic by challenging the one-size-fits-all pricing approach, emphasizing the importance of understanding your unique business needs. I highlight how premature price...

Welcome to a very special episode of the Modern Hairstylist Podcast. Today, I'm excited to share a conversation originally hosted by Jodie Brown on "The Hairstylist Rising Podcast," where we dove deep into a topic that touches every salon owner and stylist: managing last-minute cancellations and no-shows. Given its relevance and the insightful discussion we had, I knew it was crucial to bring this episode to you, my listeners.

In our chat, Jodie and I explored the emotional and professional challenges of last-minute cancellations. We've all been there—feeling frustrated when a client di...

Welcome back to another invigorating episode of The Modern Hairstylist Podcast. Today, I want to dive deep into a problem plaguing many in our community—the overwhelming sensation of burnout. It's become a silent pandemic, touching lives across our industry. As a passionate hairstylist and business educator, I see firsthand how hard it is to stay motivated and push through when every fiber of your being screams for a break. If you've been struggling to find that spark, to rise each morning ready to meet the challenges head-on, this episode is crafted just for you. It's time to reignite th...

Welcome back to the Modern Hairstylist Podcast, my friend! In this eye-opening episode, we delve deep into the essence of creating a scalable business model that not only enhances your profitability but also ensures a memorable customer experience. Whether you're struggling to increase your client base or seeking ways to elevate your salon operations, this episode is your golden ticket. Join me as we uncover the pivotal elements that transform good salons into great businesses, focusing on not just attracting clients but creating a lasting impact that fuels both growth and satisfaction.

Navigating through the...

Welcome to a super special edition of The Modern Hairstylist Podcast. Today, we're going all-in with a behind-the-scenes look at our beloved Pre-Visit Pathway program. I’m giving you a module-by-module breakdown that's perfect for anyone in the beauty biz looking to step up their game, whether you're a salon owner or a hairstylist eager to enhance your business and client relations.

We kick things off with Module 0, our orientation, where we lay the groundwork for your journey to success in the beauty industry. This initial phase is designed to get you acclimated and motivated to...

Welcome back to The Modern Hairstylist Podcast.  Today, I'm spilling the tea on transforming your salon's client experience into something legendary. Imagine a world where your clients are so in love with your service that they become your loudest cheerleaders, sticking with you through thick and thin, and driving a constant stream of ideal clients right to your salon chair. That's the game-changing strategy I'm eager to dive into today, as we navigate through the top client experience trends of 2024.

In this episode, I'll guide you through understanding the crucial role technology plays in shaping c...

Welcome back to The Modern Hairstylist podcast! In this bombshell of an episode titled "Why Automations & Systems Are A Non-Negotiable In 2024," we're diving headfirst into the chaotic beauty of our ever-changing industry.  In this episode we're not just dabbling in hair anymore; we're navigating a whirlwind of CEO-level challenges, client whims, and relentless innovations. And guess what? I'm here to spill the real tea on why automations and systems are the secret sauce to not just surviving but thriving in this madness.


The game has changed, my friends. The digital era has morphed client expectations, bombarded us w...

I'm buzzing with excitement to bring you an episode that's all about making your salon business dreams a reality without running yourself ragged. Fresh from the vibrant and enlightening "Texture Versus Race" event in Baltimore, I've got a treasure trove of insights and strategies that are going to change the game for you.


Imagine being able to grow your clientele and your business without feeling like you're constantly juggling scissors in one hand and a marketing manual in the other. Sounds like a distant dream? Well, not anymore. In this episode, I dive deep into how we...

Welcome to The Modern Hairstylist podcast episode on Pros & Cons of Session / Hybrid / Package Pricing.  If you're a salon owner, hairstylist, or beauty professional looking to innovate your pricing strategy, this episode is tailored for you. I delve deep into the realm of session pricing, also known as package or hybrid pricing, and share firsthand insights and experiences. By tuning in, you'll gain a comprehensive understanding of how this pricing model can enhance client satisfaction, streamline your services, and potentially boost your revenue. I'll also guide you through implementing session pricing in your own business, drawing on successful case studies a...

If you've felt like your marketing efforts are just blending into the background, you're not alone. We're swimming in the "attention economy," where grabbing and keeping attention is more valuable than ever. Big companies are masters at this, especially in our digital-first world. But here's the kicker: as beauty professionals, we're a bit behind the curve. That's why I'm on a mission to help you not just catch up, but lead the pack. 

In today's episode, "5 Simple, Game Changing Email Marketing Tips," I'm sharing insider secrets on using email marketing to not only capture your clients' attention but k...

Welcome back to the Modern Hairstylist Podcast! 

Today, we're tackling a challenge that, I bet, keeps many of you up at night – your website. Now, hear me out, I know the mere mention of website updates or overhauls can send shivers down your spine. It's that love-hate aspect of our digital presence that can either elevate our salon to new heights or leave us wondering why the phone isn't ringing off the hook. The truth? Your website is more than just a digital business card; it's a make-or-break gateway for attracting your ideal clients and setting your pricing sta...

In today's episode of The Modern Hairstylist Podcast, I dove deep into the world of processing fees, a topic that might not seem alluring at first glance but has become a hotly debated issue in our industry. Everywhere you look, from Facebook groups to community forums, stylists are grappling with whether to pass these fees onto clients or seek ways around them. As I looked at my own profit and loss statement, the impact of these fees became glaringly apparent, nudging me to explore the pros and cons of common strategies stylists employ to manage them. But, I promise, this...

Welcome back to another episode of The Modern Hairstylist Podcast, and oh boy, do I have an episode that’s going to stir the pot.  Today we are talking Unpopular Industry Opinions and Pet Peeves of 2024, I'm laying it all out there, and I won't lie — I'm a bit nervous about how it's going to land. But here's the thing, we're all about keeping it real and having those conversations that might just trigger a thought or two.  So, if you're ready to see if you nod in agreement or if I've just earned a spot on your 'controversial' list, buckle...

Welcome back to another thrilling episode of the Modern Hairstylist Podcast, where we dive deep into the heart of the beauty industry with none other than the trailblazing Keya Neal, a visionary in the realms of color culture and the Texture Vs. Race movement. Today, we're tapping into a conversation that's not just about hair—it's about breaking barriers, challenging norms, and creating an inclusive space where every stylist, regardless of their background, can flourish and contribute to a more diverse and accepting industry.

Keya, a master colorist and the brain behind transformative educational initiatives, sh...

Welcome back to another episode of the Modern Hairstylist podcast. Today, we're embarking on a journey into uncharted territories of our industry—navigating the daunting yet inevitable world of extended leaves. Whether it's the joyous arrival of a new family member, a much-needed recuperative break, or the adventure of a lifetime, stepping away from your chair doesn't have to spell disaster for your business. And who better to guide us through these murky waters than the incredible Leisha Thompson, the pioneer behind The Traveling Hairstylists? Leisha's unique approach not only fills a significant gap in our industry but also of...

Welcome back to another episode of The Modern Hairstylist Podcast.  Today are are diving headfirst into the game-changing world of ChatGPT, and let me tell you, it's not just about jazzing up your social media game or firing off quicker emails. No, we're talking about 30 ingenious ways to wield this AI powerhouse that'll have you rethinking everything from handling those pesky negative reviews to organizing your life with the precision of a Swiss watch.
 

And the best part? You don’t have to scribble down notes like it's finals week; just swing by hunterdonia.com/chat, and...

Welcome back to the Modern Hairstylist Podcast. Today's episode is going to be raw and real. We're diving deep into the fundamentals of our business - the nitty-gritty details that, while they may not be the sexiest topics, are absolutely critical for our growth and success. I know you're here for the latest and greatest tips, but trust me, understanding and refining the basics can bring about the most significant transformations in your business.

So, let's jump into how you can self-diagnose issues in your business that might be hindering your progress. The truth is...

Welcome back to another episode of The Modern Hairstylist Podcast.  Today, I had the immense pleasure of chatting with Nina Tulio, a name that resonates with authenticity and inspiration in our industry. Nina, like a beacon of hope, shares her journey, reminding us that even through the toughest times, there's a light at the end of the tunnel. Her story is not just about resilience; it's a testament to the power of showing up for yourself and your business, even when the odds seem insurmountable.

Our conversation ventured into some deep and personal territories, exploring t...

Welcome back to the Modern Hairstylist podcast.  Today we are diving into a topic that's not only close to my heart but also essential in shaping our careers in the beauty industry. We're unraveling the intricacies and misconceptions around specializing or niching down. This episode is a treasure trove of insights, whether you're just starting, already a niche enthusiast, or someone exploring new avenues in your styling journey.

Let's talk about the genius of specialization. There's a common myth in our industry that specializing limits your clientele. But let me tell you, specializing is like f...

Welcome back to the Modern Hairstylist Podcast.  Today, I'm thrilled to bring you a conversation I had with the amazing Dawn Bradley. Dawn's story is both inspiring and relatable, especially for those of us navigating the beauty industry while managing ADHD.

Dawn's journey in the hairstyling world began at 18, driven by a belief that it was a simple career path. However, over 22 years, she's crafted an incredible career, proving that financial success in this industry is more than possible. She's worked with top stylists around the globe, traveled extensively, and established a lucrative career, all b...