Description

In this very special episode, we recorded live from our annual Ahead Retreat – a two-day immersive mindset experience where we take our team out of the salon and into a dedicated space for growth, connection, and transformation.

Every year, we press pause on the day-to-day and create space for our team to connect, reflect, and elevate. This retreat is not a reward – it’s a crucial part of our culture and the foundation of a conscious, connected, and high-performing team.

In this episode, we sat around the table at the retreat and spoke openly with our team about their breakthroughs, their reflections, and what this experience really meant to them. From emotional release in breathwork sessions to the profound impact of being seen and celebrated by their peers, this episode is a raw, heartfelt reminder of why investing in your people changes everything.

What We Covered in This Episode:

• Why we host an immersive team retreat every year – and why it's essential, not optional
• Behind-the-scenes insights from our team members on what really happens during the retreat
• Deep emotional breakthroughs through breathwork, emotional release, and love letter exercises
• What it means to truly be seen, supported, and safe in your workplace
• The transformational impact of vulnerability, both as a team member and a leader
• Reflections from new and seasoned team members alike – including what surprised them most
• The real reason your team needs more than a paycheque to thrive
• Why trust, open communication, and personal growth matter more than ever
• Our gratitude for doing this work – and why it’s worth prioritising, even when it feels hard to make time

Real Stories From Our Team:
Hear directly from our incredible team members – from 18-year-old Ava attending her first-ever retreat to senior team leader Taya reflecting on leadership and vulnerability. Every story is unique, and every breakthrough offers inspiration for those wanting to lead from a place of heart, intention, and impact.

Key Takeaway:
You don't need to wait until a crisis to start building connection with your team. Start now. Prioritise their growth, invest in spaces for them to show up as themselves, and the reward – for them, your business, and your leadership – will be immeasurable.

Resources Mentioned:

• Breathwork practices
• The Opal app for digital wellbeing
• Personal anchoring tools used in The Conscious Salon framework
• Financial goal setting and systems for personal empowerment

Next Step for Leaders:
If you’re a salon owner, team leader, or small business founder – this is your reminder that transformation doesn’t come from KPIs and policies alone. People need connection. They need clarity. They need to feel safe, supported, and seen. And retreats like these are how we make that real.

To follow our journey:
Instagram @aheadhair_
@the_conscious_salon