Shows
The Modern Hairstylist ™ PodcastHow I Still Get Sh*t Done When I’m OverwhelmedIn this episode of The Modern Hairstylist Podcast, host Hunter Donia gets real about what it actually takes to stay productive as an independent hairstylist—especially when you're feeling completely overwhelmed. If your to-do list feels never-ending, you're juggling behind-the-chair hours with big business projects, and motivation is nowhere to be found, this episode is the tough-love pep talk (and strategy breakdown) you didn’t know you needed.Hunter shares how he navigates high-pressure seasons in his business, including how to prioritize, what to delegate, and how to keep moving forward even when he’s not fe...2025-05-1225 minThe Modern Hairstylist ™ PodcastWhy don’t clients trust hairstylists anymore & how do we change it?In this episode of The Modern Hairstylist Podcast, host Hunter Donia dives into the rising trust gap between hairstylists and their clients—and what independent stylists can do to repair it. From price confusion to boundary backlash, Hunter unpacks the real reasons clients are questioning the salon industry and how stylists can respond with strategy (not snark).Joined by marketing expert Jodie Brown, they break down survey data, industry trends, and real social media commentary to explore how the pandemic reshaped client expectations—and how you can meet them without sacrificing your own values or sanity.2025-05-0516 minThe Modern Hairstylist ™ PodcastThe Pre-Visit Experience Glow-Up: How to Attract High-Value Clients Before They Even BookRegister for the Client Experience Glow-Up Party here: https://hunterdonia.com/partyIn this episode of The Modern Hairstylist Podcast, host Hunter Donia unpacks how independent hairstylists can transform their pre-visit experience to match the modern client’s expectations in 2025. If you’re struggling with last-minute cancellations, slow bookings, or clients hesitant about your pricing, this episode will show you how the real magic happens before a guest even steps into your chair.Hunter is joined by Jodie Brown to explore why today’s clients crave fast responses, emotional connec...2025-04-2822 minThe Modern Hairstylist ™ PodcastCan You Grow a Clientele Without Social Media?Register for the Client Experience Glow-Up Party here: https://hunterdonia.com/partyIn this episode of The Modern Hairstylist Podcast, host Hunter Donia dives into the question so many independent hairstylists are asking in 2025: Do I really need social media to grow my clientele? If you’ve ever felt burnt out, overwhelmed, or just plain tired of posting to Instagram without seeing results, this episode is your reality check and your roadmap.With special guest Jodie Brown, Hunter breaks down what it actually takes to grow a th...2025-04-2131 minThe Modern Hairstylist ™ PodcastThe Underrated Passive Income Stream Most Hairstylists Are Sleeping OnIn this episode of The Modern Hairstylist Podcast, host Hunter Donia shares why retail sales and service add-ons aren’t just extra income—they’re critical tools for independent hairstylists looking to grow sustainably in 2025. If you’ve ever felt “salesy” recommending products or you’re unsure if retail is worth your time, this episode is a must-listen.Joined by marketing expert Jodie Brown, Hunter breaks down why retail and add-ons are part of your client experience—not separate from it. From increasing your new client retention to creating a client experience that...2025-04-1429 minThe Modern Hairstylist ™ PodcastAre Hairstylist’s Boundaries Leading To Poor Client Service?In this episode of The Modern Hairstylist Podcast, host Hunter Donia and guest Jodie Brown unpack a hot topic in the beauty industry: Are your salon policies actually hurting your client experience? If you’ve ever struggled with enforcing cancellation fees, setting boundaries around no-shows, or wondering whether your policies are driving clients away—this conversation is for you.Hunter dives into the delicate balance between protecting your time as a business owner and providing a client experience that builds trust and long-term loyalty. You’ll hear real talk about how bounda...2025-04-0723 minThe Modern Hairstylist ™ PodcastThe 4 Systems Every Hairstylist Needs To Scale in 2025In this episode of The Modern Hairstylist Podcast, host Hunter Donia and special guest Jodie Brown break down the four essential systems that every independent hairstylist needs in place to scale sustainably in 2025. If you're feeling overwhelmed by all the hats you wear as a beauty business owner—marketing, client care, admin, and more—this episode will help you get clarity on where to focus your energy so your business can grow without burning you out.Hunter shares the exact four “departments” that every stylist needs to build out in their...2025-03-3123 minThe Modern Hairstylist ™ PodcastHow To Raise Your Prices The Right Way, Without FearIn this episode of The Modern Hairstylist Podcast, Hunter Donia and Jodie Brown dives into one of the most emotionally charged topics for independent hairstylists: raising your prices. If you’ve ever felt guilty, nervous, or totally unsure about how to raise your rates—especially in uncertain times—this episode gives you the clarity and confidence to increase your pricing the right way.Hunter breaks down how to navigate the emotional side of price increases, how to communicate with clients (without confrontation), and how to align your pricing with the value you already provide—without apologizing for it.2025-03-2422 minThe Modern Hairstylist ™ PodcastHow I Built A Fully Booked Business in 3 MonthsIn this episode of The Modern Hairstylist Podcast, host Hunter Donia shares the full process of how he built a fully booked salon suite in just three months, even after relocating to a completely new area with no existing clientele. If you’re an independent hairstylist looking to fill your books fast—without burnout—this episode is packed with actionable strategies to help you do just that.From niching down the right way to creating a client experience that fuels referrals, Hunter breaks down exactly what worked, what didn’t, and how you can replicate his success in 2025...2025-03-1723 minThe Modern Hairstylist ™ PodcastHow Hairstylists Can Stand Out And Charge High Prices in 2025In this episode of The Modern Hairstylist Podcast, host Hunter Donia is joined by marketing expert Jodie Brown to break down exactly how independent hairstylists can position themselves to stand out in a saturated market — and confidently charge premium prices in 2025.With client expectations evolving and competition fiercer than ever, offering great hair isn’t enough. Hunter shares the strategies that elevate your client experience, increase your perceived value, and create a luxury feel that keeps clients loyal — even when your prices are higher than the salon down the street.If you want to know how to...2025-03-1019 minThe Modern Hairstylist ™ PodcastShould Independent Hairstylists Go Back To Commission?In this episode of The Modern Hairstylist Podcast, host Hunter Donia and marketing expert Jodie Brown tackle a hot topic in the hairstylist community—should independent hairstylists consider returning to commission salons? With rising burnout, increasing client expectations, and the ever-growing responsibilities of running a business, some stylists are wondering if the structure and support of a commission salon might be the better path.If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the pressure of being both the stylist and the CEO of your business, or if you’ve questioned whether the freedom of independence is worth the hustle...2025-03-0325 minThe Modern Hairstylist ™ PodcastClient Communication, Tech & BoundariesIn this episode of The Modern Hairstylist Podcast, host Hunter Donia and marketing expert Jodie Brown to dive into the must-have skills for hairstylists to thrive in 2025. From streamlining client communication to embracing technology and setting healthy boundaries, they cover everything you need to stay relevant and protect your energy while delivering an outstanding client experience.If you’re feeling overwhelmed by rising client expectations, constant DMs, and juggling it all behind the chair, this episode is your roadmap to working smarter, not harder.Key Takeaways:🔹 Streamlined Client Communication: Disco...2025-02-2418 minThe Modern Hairstylist ™ PodcastWhy Specialization is Essential for Hairstylists in 2025In this episode of The Modern Hairstylist Podcast, host Hunter Donia and marketing expert Jodie Brown break down why specializing as a hairstylist isn’t just a trend—it’s a necessity for success in 2025. The days of trying to appeal to everyone are over. If you want to attract high-quality clients, build long-term loyalty, and grow your income year over year, niching down is the key.Hunter and Jodie dive into what it really means to specialize (hint: it’s not just about technique), how to position yourself as an expert, and the biggest mistakes stylists make whe...2025-02-1715 minThe Modern Hairstylist ™ PodcastStanding Out in a Saturated Market: Social Media Tips for HairstylistsIn this episode of The Modern Hairstylist Podcast, host Hunter Donia sits down with hairstylist marketing expert and co-host Jodie Brown to break down what it really takes to stand out as a hairstylist in 2025. With social media becoming more saturated than ever, simply posting pretty hair pictures isn’t enough to attract and book your dream clients.Hunter shares the most effective strategies for cutting through the noise, building trust with potential clients, and using social media as a powerful tool for business growth. Whether you feel like your content is getting lost in the algorithm or...2025-02-1024 minThe Modern Hairstylist ™ PodcastBranding Photoshoots w/ Marisa BurgettIn this episode of The Modern Hairstylist Podcast, host Hunter Donia sits down with branding expert and creative director Marisa Burgett to talk all things branding photoshoots—why they matter, how to make them truly represent your brand, and how to make the process fun instead of overwhelming.If you've been putting off getting professional branding photos because you're unsure about the investment, nervous about being in front of the camera, or just don’t know where to start—this episode is for you! Hunter and Marisa break down exactly how hairstylists can create...2025-02-0328 minThe Modern Hairstylist ™ PodcastRethinking Retention and Thriving with Low-Return ClientsRetention isn’t a one-size-fits-all concept, especially for hairstylists running unique business models. In this episode of The Modern Hairstylist Podcast, we’re challenging the traditional ideas of success and diving into why a low-retention clientele doesn’t have to mean low revenue—or failure. If you’ve ever wondered how to make the most out of clients who only see you once or twice, this episode is for you.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:The Real Deal on Retention: Why retention rates vary across different business models and why that’s okay...2025-01-2718 minThe Modern Hairstylist ™ PodcastHow To Be Fast Behind The Chair When Working With Texture w/ Keya NealAre you ready to elevate your approach to working with texture and redefine what efficiency looks like behind the chair? In this episode, Hunter sits down with the legendary Keya Neal to discuss the nuances of textured hair, common time-wasters, and actionable ways to enhance client experiences while preserving your energy and time. This lively, no-holds-barred conversation is packed with insights about leveling up your mindset, services, and business strategy—while staying true to your mission of providing exceptional value to your clients.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:The #1 time-waster stylists face when...2025-01-2029 minThe Modern Hairstylist ™ PodcastHow To Set Goals That Are Aligned With YOUR Vision, And No One Else'sGoal setting as a hairstylist isn’t about chasing arbitrary benchmarks or comparing yourself to others—it’s about creating a vision for your life and building a business that supports it. In this episode of The Modern Hairstylist Podcast, Hunter breaks down a simple yet powerful framework for setting meaningful goals that align with what you truly want, without getting bogged down by anyone else’s “shoulds.”What You’ll Learn in This Episode:The Foundation of Goal Setting: Why your goals should start with your personal vision, not someone else’s standards.H...2025-01-1306 minThe Modern Hairstylist ™ PodcastIs Instagram Still the Key to Growing Your Hairstylist Business? w/ Jamie DanaIn this high-energy episode of The Modern Hairstylist Podcast, Hunter Donia welcomes the queen of Instagram herself, Jamie Dana! Together, they unravel the real tea about using Instagram as a hairstylist in 2025. With social media trends evolving faster than ever, this conversation is packed with insights into what’s working right now and how to keep your strategy simple and impactful.💡 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Is Instagram still relevant for hairstylists to grow their clientele? (Spoiler: YES, and here’s why!)The importance of creating a seamless “follower experience” to convert Instagram vie...2025-01-0231 minThe Modern Hairstylist ™ PodcastHow AI is Revolutionizing New Client Search for HairstylistsWelcome to another episode of The Modern Hairstylist Podcast! Today, Hunter explores a revolutionary shift in the hairstyling industry that could redefine how clients find their dream stylists—and how you can position yourself to thrive.You’ll hear a story that will make you rethink the way clients are discovering hairstylists today. Plus, Hunter dives into a trend that’s no longer “on the horizon” but is happening right now, shaking up the way business is done in the beauty world.What to Expect in This EpisodeA groundbreaking moment from a hairstyl...2024-12-1611 minThe Modern Hairstylist ™ PodcastMarketing Mistakes That Make a Big Difference In Getting New ClientsIn this episode of The Modern Hairstylist Podcast, host Hunter Donia dives into the marketing missteps that might be holding independent hairstylists back from attracting new clients. If you’ve ever felt like your marketing efforts aren’t delivering results—whether it’s through social media, your website, or local outreach—this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you optimize your strategies and uncover hidden opportunities for growth.Key Takeaways:The Funnel Fix: Learn how to get more eyeballs on your website, social media, and booking platforms by leveraging local outreach and SEO best p...2024-12-0928 minThe Modern Hairstylist ™ PodcastStepping Back from Your Business Without Sacrificing GrowthIn 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:How to Recover Without Losing Ground: Learn how to take time...2024-11-2515 minThe Modern Hairstylist ™ PodcastHow a Trump Presidency May Affect the Beauty IndustryIn 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:Tariffs and Supply Costs: How proposed tariffs on imports could...2024-11-1825 min
The Messy HairstylistStreamlining Salon Success with Hunter DoniaSend a a Text- leave your name & email so we can respond!Join us on The Messy Hairstylist Podcast with Hunter Donia as we explore how hairstylists can streamline growth and prevent burnout by embracing technology. Hunter, a business educator and independent stylist, shares his journey from brand educator to salon suite owner, revealing how automated systems can simplify operations and enhance client experiences. We dive into strategies for managing boundaries, maintaining balance, and making empowered business decisions. If you’re ready to embrace innovation and grow your business sustainably, this episode is packed with practical insights to...2024-11-1433 minThe Modern Hairstylist ™ PodcastUnlock An Extra $10k In Revenue In 5 MinutesIn 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:Why Stylists Avoid Retail and Add-Ons: Hunter notes that whenever he brings up retail and add-ons, the episode typically gets fewer downloads. Why? Stylists are...2024-10-0722 minThe Modern Hairstylist ™ PodcastThe Two Phases Of Struggle In A Hairstylist's Journey To SuccessLEARN MORE ABOUT PRE-VISIT PATHWAYIn 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 HairstylistsHunter discusses the two major phases every hairstylist must navigate...2024-09-3012 minThe Modern Hairstylist ™ PodcastSpoiler: The Top 3 Favorite Strategies of PVP (LIMITED TIME EPISODE)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...2024-09-2323 min
PhorestFM: Stories From the Salon FloorHunter Donia on Building the Clientele of Your Dreams, Insights Gained From Adversity (Rerun)[293] What if failure was the key to your success? Whether you're a seasoned beauty pro or just starting out, Hunter Donia's (@hairbyhunty) experience of rebuilding a clientele after relocating to a new area underscores the importance of adaptability and continuous learning.
In this episode, learn more about how and why, despite initial confidence and extensive efforts, putting the finger on what would work for him in this new city was slower and more discouraging than expected.
This conversation with Hunter Donia was originally released in February 2022 as part of Season 6.
Links:
...2024-08-0526 min
Stylist Soul Tribe Conversations040 - Prioritizing New Ideas, Projects, and Pushing Through Burnout with Hunter DoniaHave a topic request or someone you think we should have on the pod?! Send us a text and let us know!In this episode of Stylist Soul Tribe Conversations, host Lisa Huff sits down with Hunter Donia to discuss the challenges of balancing new ideas, maintaining focus on existing projects, and overcoming burnout in the beauty industry. Hunter shares his insights on staying disciplined, managing workload, and leveraging what's already working in your business to achieve sustainable success.Key Takeaways:Balancing New Ideas and Focus:Avoid distraction by too many new ideas and...2024-07-3129 minStylist Soul Tribe Conversations038 - A Different Take on Woo - An Open Minded Conversation with Hunter DoniaHave a topic request or someone you think we should have on the pod?! Send us a text and let us know!Welcome to Stylist Soul Tribe Conversations! I'm your host, Lisa Huff, and in this episode, I am joined by Hunter Donia for an engaging and thought-provoking discussion on the concept of "woo." We dive deep into what "woo" means to us, exploring its various aspects such as energy, consciousness, and spiritual practices like meditation, manifestation, and intuition.Hunter shares his analytical and skeptical perspective on woo, while I bring in my experiences and the...2024-07-1753 minThe Modern Hairstylist ™ PodcastHow To Conquer Imposter Syndrome with Mattea HunterWelcome 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...2024-05-1326 min
The BeautyPro Podcast: Keeping It Real & Raw for Hairstylists, Estheticians, Salon Owners46. Hunter Donia: ADHD Human, Boundaries Master, Eagles' FanJoin me as I chat with BeautyLaunchpad's Youngest Up and Coming Colorist of 2020, Modern Salon's Top 100 Stylist of 2021, Face of Sola Salons 2021--Hunter Donia! We chat about the real & raw on ego, life systems, challenges OUTSIDE of the salon. All while laughing about the commonalities of life for both of us! Don't miss this episode!
WANT MORE HUNTY?
Follow Hunter on Instagram HERE
Check out his website & freebies HERE!
Love this episode?
SUBSCRIBE to never miss an episode on Spotify or Apple!
DON'T FORGET!
Tell us your favorite parts of this episode and...2024-04-2251 min
Volume Up by The TeaseLet's Talk About ADHD in Beauty With Hunter DoniaSponsored by the Professional Beauty Associationhttps://www.probeauty.org/Interview with Hunter DoniaHunter Donia is a digital educator teaching beauty professionals how to streamline, automate and elevate their processes in their businesses without being overwhelmed through ADHD-friendly business education. In 2020, he was recognized as the youngest up-and-coming hair colorist and presented at industry conferences across the nation. Hunter enjoys hanging out with his cat, Jenna, traveling, and attending music festivals and concerts in his free time.Links: https://www.instagram.com/hairbyhunty/ https://www.hunterdonia.com/podcast https://www.hu...2024-03-0457 minStylist Soul Tribe Conversations004 - Automate to Elevate: Achieving a Balanced Life with Hunter DoniaHave a topic request or someone you think we should have on the pod?! Send us a text and let us know!In today's episode, we're diving deep into the world of salon systems, automation, and work-life balance with Hunter Donia👉 WHAT YOU'LL LEARN:Hunter's incredible journey and how he's revolutionizing the hairstyling industry.The importance of implementing systems and automation to streamline your beauty business.Setting boundaries and creating policies that help build strong relationships with clients.The significance of work-life balance and self-care in achieving professional success. SPEC...2023-11-2256 min