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In this episode of the Hello Hair Pro Podcast, Todd and Jen tackle one of the most hot-button topics in the hair industry: booth and suite rental vs. commission salons.
They break down the hidden costs of going out on your own, the predatory marketing tactics some rental salon owners use, and why many stylists actually make less money renting than they would in a well-run commission salon.
You’ll also hear about Jen’s unique apprenticeship program, how demand and merit (not time) should drive pricing, and why the future may be swinging back toward commission salons that innovate, lead with vision, and provide real support to stylists.
If you’ve ever wondered whether renting really means “keeping all your money,” or if you’re considering making the jump, this episode will give you the clarity you need.
Key Takeaways:
- The myth of “keeping all your money” — why rental comes with major hidden costs like software, insurance, licensing, cleaning, and taxes.
- Predatory practices in rental salons — from targeting new grads to dangling “amenities” that erode profitability.
- The rental vs. commission mindset — it’s less about freedom and more about whether you want to be left alone or guided.
- Apprenticeship success stories — why Jen’s program produces stylists who can raise their prices even before they’re licensed.
- Future industry trends — why rental is plateauing, and why well-run commission salons are primed for a comeback.
Episode Timestamps:
- [00:00] Welcome & opening banter
- [00:01] Todd’s “seed planting” approach to partnership and decision making
- [00:05] Jen celebrates Madison, her apprentice, hitting 1,500 hours
- [00:07] Pricing apprentices fairly: demand vs. time in the industry
- [00:11] Rental vs. commission: not good vs. bad, just different needs
- [00:13] Why “you keep all your money” is predatory marketing
- [00:14] The danger of targeting new grads for rental
- [00:16] Loneliness and stagnation in suites — why many return to community
- [00:18] Business basics renters MUST know: mission, vision, P&L, insurance
- [00:20] The importance of marketing and curating like-minded renters
- [00:23] Why commission salons lost ground — and how they can bounce back
- [00:26] The constant need to evolve in business
- [00:27] Hidden costs checklist: rent, licenses, equipment, insurance, software, accounting, taxes, education, and more
- [00:35] Commission salon advantage: stylists get to focus on creativity
- [00:36] Todd’s renter’s checklist — what to have in place before you jump
- [00:38] Why industry infighting (rental vs. commission) is hurting everyone
- [00:39] Wrapping up & newsletter invite
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