Shows
Hair LifeHair Life Rewind: Ditch the ScrollAre you constantly scrolling or wondering why your kids can’t put their phones down at dinner? In this Rewind episode of Hair Life, we dive into social media’s grip on our lives - its effects on focus, self-esteem, and even our salons. Callie and I share honest stories about its influence on our work and families.We unpack the psychological toll, like content overload and pressure to match filtered ideals, and provide actionable tips for a refreshing detox. You’ll discover how to balance social media to boost creativity and connections without sacrificing peace, with practi...2025-07-2810 minHair LifeUnregulated Cuts: Addressing Hairdressing and RegulationWould you let an untrained doctor operate on you? So why risk your hair with an unqualified stylist? In this episode of Hair Life, we sit down with Rae Palmer, a hairdressing legend with 40 years of experience and the founder of WELOVE. She shares her journey from sweeping floors in a barber shop to owning buzzing salons, driven by her passion for teaching and frustration with the UK’s wild-west hair industry - where anyone can grab scissors or chemicals without training.Rae shares shocking salon mishaps and her fierce fight with the Hair and Barber Council to...2025-07-2136 minHair LifeHair Life Rewind: PR SecretsWelcome to the first Hair Life Rewind, where we revisit highlights from past episodes. Today, we’re diving back into our chat with PR expert Sally Learmouth.In this episode you’ll learn how leveraging your salon’s USP can elevate your brand. Sally shares how she transformed freelancer Jack Howard into the “King of Balayage” with savvy PR strategies. This throwback uncovers how bold, decisive action can spark growth for your salon.Hair Life is produced by Urban Podcasts.2025-06-1604 minHair LifeLiving to 100: Can You Afford Your Future?Inspired by my 95-year-old client Leslie, who faces the physical and financial challenges of aging, Callie and I dive into whether we can afford our own futures. We question if retiring at 65 is outdated, especially for hairdressers and small business owners like us with limited pension options.With raw honesty, we unpack the emotional toll of boredom and the search for purpose in later life.In this episode, you’ll learn:Why living to 100 is more likely than ever.How small pension pots could mean working into your 80s.Why inflation and mortgages might fo...2025-06-0221 minHair LifeTrophy or Trap? The Truth About Hair AwardsAre hair industry awards the golden ticket for your salon or just a shiny distraction? In this episode of Hair Life, myself and Callie cut through the noise and get real about the value of chasing awards.In this episode, you’ll learn: How regional wins can amplify your local rep and turn free press into marketing wins.Why awards season can light a fire under your team, boost morale, and spark industry connections.The hidden costs—entry fees, gala tickets, and time—that can drain your focus if you’re not strategic.Packed with hone...2025-05-2624 minHair LifeOverprotecting and UnderprotectingReflecting on our own childhood experiences, we reminisce about the joyous freedom we had back in the '90s, where our outdoor adventures were filled with simplicity and creativity—improvising games, exploring nature, and engaging in hands-on play without the distractions of screens.In this episode, we grapple with the question of whether today's children are, in fact, over-protected from real-life experiences, yet simultaneously under-prepared to handle the digital interactions. I share personal insights, including my son’s first dating experience and my plan to introduce a month-long family experiment to disconnect from screens.2025-05-1231 minHair LifeParenting in the Digital AgeCurious how a Netflix show can reshape your take on parenting teens today? In this episode, we dive into Adolescence—a series sparking buzz among parents and teens alike.We ask: who’s guiding kids through this digital maze—parents, schools, or tech giants?In this episode, you’ll learn:Why Adolescence hits home for parents and teens.The big questions on who shapes kids today.Real ways to spark trust and talks with teens.Raw and relatable, this episode’s for anyone navigating parenting in a digital world.Hair Life is pr...2025-04-2140 minHair LifeConfidence: The Silent StruggleFeel like self-doubt’s holding you back? In this episode of Hair Life, Cally and I dive into confidence, unpacking why so many of us—especially women—struggle to feel "enough." From childhood stings to social media’s comparison trap, we get real about what fuels insecurity.We go beyond the why, sharing actionable ways to grow confidence—like Cally’s self-love day or my lessons in coaching my son to stand tall. Expect honest talk on failure as growth, the pressure to do it all, and creating spaces that spark courage over comparison.In this episode...2025-04-1427 minHair LifeJust Do ItEver let a great idea fester in our heads too long? We’ve been there—overthinking while time slips by. In this episode we’re unpacking why doing beats hesitating, no fluff—just real talk.In this episode, you’ll learn: Why action always outshines hesitation. Why fear of judgement is a trap worth dodging. Why perfect timing is a myth that’s holding us back. Loaded with real talk and actionable steps, this episode is for anyone ready to ditch the delays and make moves.Hair Life is produced by Urban Podcasts.2025-03-3132 minHair LifeMoney Talks: The Highs, Lows, and Life LessonsMoney does more than pay the bills—it shapes your life. In this episode of Hair Life, we share our real, raw stories about cash, from losing it all to building successful salons.In this episode, you’ll learn:How we turn financial struggles into wins.Why money feels like a blessing and a burden.How it affects choices, relationships, and happiness.Callie’s 11-year plan to gain freedom.Nathan’s dream of sharing salon ownership with his team.With honest tales of resilience and lessons learned, this episode is perfect for salon owners or anyon...2025-03-1053 minHair LifeSalon Secrets: How Retention Beats AcquisitionThis week, we reveal the secrets to keeping clients loyal and coming back for more.In this episode, you’ll learn:Why retaining clients costs less than acquiring new ones.Why loyalty programmes increase retention.Why understanding client habits leads to loyalty.With actionable tips to maximise your revenue and build lasting client connections, this episode is a must-listen for salon owners ready to kick-start a successful year.Hair Life is produced by Urban Podcasts.2025-01-2028 minHair LifeStarting 2025 with PurposeWhat’s ahead for your business in 2025, and how can you use the first few months to set a strong foundation? In this episode, we discuss our plans for the year and share practical tips on setting goals and preparing for challenges, including:The value of having a coachThe power of goal-settingHow small steps lead to big winsTips for maintaining a healthier work-life balanceBy using the early months of 2025 to focus on goal-setting, taking small steps, and prioritising balance, you can build a solid foundation for success.Got a question or a suggestion? Conn...2025-01-1334 minHair LifeSalon Survival: New Budget, New StrategyHow will the recent budget changes impact your salon’s finances, and what steps can you take to navigate the challenges ahead?In this episode of Hair Life, accountant Melanie Beach joins us and breaks down the financial changes hitting small salons, including the rise in national insurance and its effect on SMEs with five or more employees. Melanie offers actionable advice on cash flow management, transparency with staff, and how to create a strategic financial plan to stay ahead. We also explore the importance of consistent reporting, managing costs, and the value of investing in apprentices.2024-11-2942 min
Definition Radio2024/10/26 - What you voted for, new ones worth playing again, brand new songs, and a flashback to 1994.What you voted for, new ones worth playing again, brand new songs, and a flashback to 1994.
Playlist:
"Like Me" by indie tribe.
"On Fire (ft. Zaytoven)" by 1K Phew
"No L's (ft. Miles Minnick, Fatman Scoop)" by Bizzle
"Remnant Forever (ft. Phillip Anthony & DJ Sean P)" by iNTELLECT
"Olympian" by Propaganda
"Let It Go (ft. Jered Sanders, Datin, Mickey Factz)" by Ayo Shamir
"Wish I Could (ft. Mike Webber)" by Nathan Plumridge
"Rise From Ashes" by Man Of War
"Wonderous Deliverance (ft. Nfors)" by Vytal One
"Psalm 88 (ft. Sondae)" by Jackie Hill Perry
"Not Me...2024-11-0600 minHair LifeEmbracing the Taboo: Why Talking About Death MattersAre we truly living in a way that honours the time we have left?In this episode of Hair Life, we explore the often-taboo subject of death. Inspired by recent, raw conversations with salon clients and our own experiences, we share the challenging realities of loss. I open up about losing my father nine years ago and the way his passing forever changed my perspective on life and mortality. Cally adds her own reflections on how grief can isolate, with friends and family often unsure how to stay supportive after the initial loss.We share...2024-10-2829 minHair LifeRedefining Wealth & Well-beingAfter facing a significant health scare, Cally discovered the transformative power of setting boundaries and valuing time with family over material wealth. This personal revelation echoed a broader societal shift we've noticed, especially in a post-COVID world, where people are now more inclined to seek a balanced lifestyle despite financial pressures. In this episode, we share heartwarming stories and discuss how older generations are adapting. We'll also shine a light on the immense pressures that today's youth face regarding their financial futures. As parents make significant investments in private education and young adults navigate the rising costs of univ...2024-10-1432 minHair LifeKeeping Love AliveWhat’s the secret to keeping the spark alive in a long-term relationship? In this episode of Hair Life, we share the tips and tricks we’ve picked up through personal experiences and conversations in our salons.We discuss the importance of prioritising time together, exploring shared hobbies, and keeping playfulness at the heart of their relationship. 2024-10-0751 minHair LifeCrushing ProcrastinationAre you putting off tasks you know you should tackle?In this episode of Hair Life, we dig into the all-too-common struggle of procrastination and why so many of us in the beauty industry (and beyond) fall into its trap. From delaying admin work to avoiding the final steps of a creative project, we explore the psychological triggers behind procrastination—and how to overcome them.Cally and I share our own procrastination confessions, from Cally distracting herself with her dog instead of finishing paperwork, to my tendency to stall when projects move from exciting ideas to te...2024-09-3043 minHair LifeParenthood Unplugged: Surviving the ChaosIn this episode, we dive into the messy, hilarious, and oh-so-real world of parenting. From chaotic kid moments to navigating the teenage years (when all those parenting books seem to go silent), we share stories that will have you laughing and nodding in agreement.We also get into the financial reality of kids' ever-changing fashion choices, the struggle to keep up with "perfect parent" standards in the digital age, and the quirky dynamics of family group texts.Don't forget to follow us on socials, @HairLifePodcast.2024-09-2338 minHair LifeIs Your Salon Keeping You Up at Night?Have you ever felt like your salon is running you, instead of the other way around?In this episode of Hair Life, we tackle the hot topic of burnout and the economic challenges facing salon owners today. Inspired by the eye-opening Creative Head article, "Is Your Business Keeping You Awake at Night?", we dive into the delicate dance between personal well-being and professional demands. Cally shares her story of taking on extra work to keep her salon's reputation intact during staff changes, and the toll it’s taking on her mental health. With one stylist tra...2024-09-1627 minHair LifeScroll Less, Live More: The Social Media DetoxIs social media running your life, or are you in control?In this episode, we take a hard look at the grip that social media has on us—and how we can break free. From endless scrolling to social comparisons, we explore how social media seeps into our daily routines, impacts our attention spans, and shapes our relationships—especially with our kids.We ask the question, what’s the cost of constant connectivity? We get real about the anxietysocial media creates and the boundaries we need to set, both for ourselves and for the next generatio2024-09-0937 minHair LifeSmall Steps, Big Impact: The Power of ConsistencyWhat role does consistency play in shaping our lives?In this episode of Hair Life, we explore the power of sticking to routines and habits, even when things get tough. We reflect on how showing up consistently—whether it’s in the salon, in personal fitness, or within relationships—can create lasting benefits.We also explore how the challenges of maintaining health goals resonate with the feedback we receive from clients. Together, we discuss how small, consistent actions can lead to big rewards, both mentally and physically.If you’ve been struggling with sticking to...2024-09-0230 minHair LifeUnlocking Salon Success: How PR & Branding Can Transform Your Business with Sally LearmouthIn this episode of Hair Life, Nathan and Callie sit down with PR powerhouse Sally Learmouth from Gloss Communications to uncover the secrets of successful marketing, branding, and public relations in the salon industry.Together, we explore the ever-evolving role of social media in PR and Sally, and Callie discuss how platforms like Instagram have become essential tools for connecting with clients and building a loyal community.Sally also shares what PR means—going beyond press releases to create impactful communication strategies that resonate with clients and build strong internal teams and the critical balance bet...2024-08-2632 minDefinition Radio2024/7/13 - Keeping it Aussie, with a some new and old songs and an artist branching out.This edition we're keeping it Aussie. With the occasional overseas guest artist. New music by Eskatology and Nathan Plumbridge.
Playlist:
"Ain't Love Proud (ft. TheyCallMe.Solo, Brett Adrien & King O.P.P.)" by Fonke Knomaads
"Free Thought (ft. Kris-Bo)" by Shelly.H
"Refuse (ft. Jonnie 3:16, Izzy n The Profit)" by Oakbridge
"You Won't Be the One (ft. Whisky Winter)" by Marksman Lloyd
"Emcee Li" by DJ Flagrant
"Urban Warfare" by Fortune
"I'm Sorry" by Eskatology
"Battlefield" by JPoint
"War" by Young Faith
"For Such a Time (ft. CDH Live!, Monks, D4C, DJ Lord Fader...2024-07-1900 minHair LifeHonest: The Habits for Dealing with StressWe can expect to take a few punches in life and business, but the ability to get back up truly defines us. In this episode of Hair Life, I explore the often-unspoken challenges of mental health and stress that come with navigating difficult times.I share my experiences with personal growth and how it positively impacts our teams and communities, emphasising the importance of leading by example.This episode also marks a new chapter for HairLife as I introduce a new co-host who brings a wealth of creativity and entrepreneurial prowess to our upcoming episodes.2024-02-0521 min
Eat Sleep Run RepeatEP 91 - The QLD 5000m champs feat Taz Savage and Sam HyamMassive show this week with Sam & Taz live in the studio, we all chat about our experiences at the State 5k champs this weekend gone, Nathan gives us the run down on his road to London Tuesday arvo track sessions (all locals invited) Steve Sparling runs his 300th Parkrun at Northlakes this passing Saturday.If you want a great running coach hit Sam up from 'Tidyaz run coaching' you can find him here > https://www.instagram.com/tidyaz_runcoaching/The Brighton Early run squad that is headed by Taz can be found here > https://www...2023-11-121h 27
Theatrical ShenanigansEpisode 7 - "One Foot in Front of The Other" & Christopher PlumridgeThis week on Theatrical Shenanigans we present the audio play "One Foot in Front of The Other" by UK based playwright and theatrical reviewer Paul Smith (https://theatreplays.uk/) and I have a chat about the piece with East Anglian based playwright & writer of "Coming In" from Episode 3, Christopher Plumridge.Cast:Elsie - Fiona LeishmannNathan - Robert KnowlesPlay Synopsis:Nathan is taking a coach to London where he is running the London Marathon; Elise is taking the coach to London to support her granddaughter who is also...2023-03-2627 min
Hair LifeExpressing Your Vulnerability And Finding Your SuperpowerIn this episode Nathan Plumridge talks about being vulnerable, something that he’s had a lot of discussions about in the last few months, mainly due to an experience he had in early December which he shares with you. This is about learning from things both in business and from a health point of view.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
I’ve started thinking about health not just from a physical point of view, but from a mental side as well. Opening up, being vulnerable and sharing has helped me mentally and has enabled me to have some incredible conv...2023-02-2717 min
Hair LifeFreelance Stylist to Home Salon Owner – Cally BorgIn this episode Nathan Plumridge talks to entrepreneur, award winning stylist, and salon owner Cally Borg to talk about her background and journey through her career.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
I wasn’t very academic at school, I couldn’t sit still in a classroom, that’s just not my thing at all. However, when I got into hairdressing I was so focussed from day one because I just knew it was for me.
My freelance career was really busy, I was in and out of London and Surrey taking any job that came to me. One minute I’d be...2023-02-2055 min
Hair LifeLiving A Better Second Half With Tom Johnson Ex-England Rugby PlayerIn this episode Nathan Plumridge talks to Tom Johnson, Ex-England Rugby Player about his career and the transition to the second half of life as a coach now he no longer plays.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
My happiest times were when we were playing rugby for the craic, giving it a go. The reason we did it was to find out our boundaries and what we could do, then we started to bring it into focus on areas of risk and reward, where we can dominate games and where we can give ourselves the best chance of winning...2023-01-3053 min
Hair LifePassions Health Challenges And Outcomes with Colin McAndrew of Medusa HairIn this episode Nathan Plumridge talks to Colin McAndrew, MD of Medusa Hair – one of the fastest growing salons in Scotland, about his inspirations, his challenges and his passions.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Growing up I had three central female figures in my life, my two older sisters and my Mum – Dad disappeared. I went to salons with my sisters when they were baby-sitting me, Mum worked two jobs. I loved the atmosphere in that space. After I left school I got an apprenticeship in a beautiful salon on Prince’s Street in Edinburgh where I learned how to mak...2023-01-231h 09
Hair LifePhorest Software with Luke Doohan, Paddy Monahan and Candice – Hair Life with Nathan Plumridge (Part 2)In this episode, Nathan is joined for the second of two episodes by Luke Doolan and Paddy Monahan, manager and head of product at Phorest Software respectively, as well as Nathan’s head of operations, Candice, to talk about Phorest Software (that Gavin has worked with for a long time) and what they do.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
In order for you to say your average ticket is £120 or whatever, to look at that and say “why is that?”, at a business or a staff member level, within the new Phorest Reports you just click the number and it dril...2022-12-1240 min
Hair LifePhorest Software With Luke Doohan, Paddy Monahan And Candice – Hair Life With Nathan Plumridge (Part 1)In this episode, Nathan is joined for the first of two episodes by Luke Doolan and Paddy Monahan, manager and head of product at Phorest Software respectively, as well as Nathan’s head of operations, Candice, to talk about Phorest Software (that Gavin has worked with for a long time) and what they do.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
We’re not just an appointment system or diary, we take it in a slightly different way than most do. We're not a software company, we're a salon company, we’re aimed at the industry. Our whole existence is to unders...2022-12-0543 min
Hair LifeMenopause Resilience with Adelle MartinIn this episode, Nathan is joined by Adelle Martin, founder and creator of the Menopause Resilience Club – a private group where women can come together to build strong business and strong bodies through their hormonal change.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
I’ve always been sporty, but when I got to 15 my Dad told me I had to get a proper job – things like Britain’s Got Talent didn’t exist at the time, so I couldn’t make money out of dancing and gymnastics. A proper job at the time meant a job for life in a bank, which I abso...2022-11-281h 10
Hair LifeDavroe With Mary CentofantiIn this episode, Nathan is joined by Mary Centofanti, one of the owners and creators of the vegan brand, Davroe, which is maybe the best kept hairdressing secret.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
In 2006 we needed to make changes to the company that we purchased. I went to the formulating chemist and said: “I want this range to be sulphate-free and vegan”. To his credit he agreed and it took us two years to get the formulations and fragrances right because they’re key to the product as well as performance. We launched in 2008 and a lot of people were a...2022-11-2137 min
Hair LifeBusiness Coaching For Salon Owners with Jessica Crane – Hair Life with Nathan PlumridgeIn this episode, Nathan is joined by Jessica Crane, author, entrepreneur, business coach, mother of two. And much more, to talk about her career and how salon owners can create generational wealth from their businesses.
Here is your affiliate link to the 2 Day Salon Summit 6th and 7th November – anyone who purchases a ticket through this link you will receive 50% of the ticket sales - all the details are on the page: https://siss.jessicacrane.co.uk/salon-summit?affiliate_id=3991444
KEY TAKEAWAYS
I realised from a young age – starting work at age 12 – that I was go...2022-10-3145 min
Hair Life25 Years Of Sharing Her Passion For Hair With Jayne Lewis-OrrIn this episode, Nathan is joined by Jayne Lewis-Orr who is, quite simply, a hair industry icon. Her passion for the industry over the last 25 years as the executive director of the Hairdresser’s Journal is why Jayne is so well respected by every hairdresser.There’s a slight audio issue on this one that we just couldn’t work around, but I’m sure after a few minutes you’ll tune your ears to it.KEY TAKEAWAYS
I was set on becoming a journalist in the hair and beauty industry and I was really fortunate to land a...2022-10-1729 min
Hair LifeRolls Royce Customer Service With Angeline HaydenIn this episode, Nathan is joined by Angeline Hayden, a teacher, salon industry educator, award winning business coach, podcaster and outdoor challenge seeker, to talk about how to provide better service in the hair and beauty industry. KEY TAKEAWAYS
I was a salon owner for 12-13 years who ran the business. I always looked at things from the point of view of the client as well as the stylists, the team and running the business. I got to a point where I got as far as I could go for myself and I wasn’t interested in tr...2022-10-1046 min
Hair LifeThe Next Generation of Inspirational Salon Owners with Joe Hemmings from Bloggs Salons – Hair Life with Nathan PlumridgeIn this episode, Nathan is joined by Joe Hemmings, a multi-salon owner, multi-award winner, and part of the new generation of salon owners that are challenging the norms by giving his team and his guests truly something different.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
I started on the 13th July 2010 and it naturally evolved from doing A-Levels at school to apprenticeships. I was talked out of becoming a hairdresser at school because it wasn’t seen as a great career, and ever since then I’ve had a bit of a bugbear to prove people wrong, it can be a grea...2022-09-2651 min
Hair LifeThe Service We Should Deliver – Hair Life With Nathan PlumridgeIn this episode, recorded after he got back from holiday and a day after the Queen passed away, Nathan talks about service, what it is and how you can deliver service that defines your business in its market.KEY TAKEAWAYS
We are now in a time where your business doesn’t really have many things that can truly separate it from your competition. Pretty much everything can be copied, from your salon interior, software system, branding, marketing, apps, the croissants and coffee you give away for breakfast, these are all things that can be replicated. What will de...2022-09-1919 min
Hair LifeThe Inspirational Errol Douglas InterviewIn this episode Nathan talks to British hairdressing icon, Errol Douglas, to talk about his career as a hairdresser and salon owner.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
My ex-wife, Jo, was frustrated with me always coming home unhappy from my job as an ambassador for other salons and companies. She said: “Why don’t you open a shop or start your own business?” I was fortunate enough to live in London and so I was always enthralled by fashion and I was earning a lot of money, my accountant – Kim – became my business partner who had a background in property l...2022-08-1549 min
Hair LifeA Salon Owner’s Guide To Self-Motivation And Crushing Negative ThoughtsIn this episode Nathan talks about how he’s noticed a lot of mixed up feelings around him lately from salon owners and guests that come into the salon about how they’re currently dealing with everything that’s going on in the world. Nathan has been working with his mentor recently on things that he hopes, once he’s shared them with you on this podcast, will help you achieve a more positive general outlook.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
I’ve started to really work on my morning routine – having a good morning routine is proven to have a lastin...2022-08-0110 min
Hair LifeIs Your Salon Overwhelming You?In this episode Nathan talks about how you – as a salon owner – are probably having to deal with quite a lot right now and how you can deal with feelings of overwhelm as a business owner.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
When I say “overwhelm”, I mean that feeling that everything is coming on top of you, like being buried alive, and you don’t have the answer to everything. I feel like this sometimes in the business, that there are moments where everything is attacking you and you do know what to do.
I’ve talked to a lot of salon...2022-07-1810 min
Hair LifeFuture-Proofing Your BusinessIn this episode Nathan explains why he’s been away for the last few weeks, it was a time of reflection where he took some time to really think about his business and this show. What have been some of the challenges and what are the opportunities to future-proof the business?
KEY TAKEAWAYS
As a salon owner, like me, you are definitely starting to notice the difference in every part of your business. We have just ended our best year ever, but when you look at the bottom line you realise there isn’t a lot of c...2022-06-2719 min
Hair LifeMaking The World A Better PlaceIn this episode Nathan is joined by the founders of Wellity Global, Simon Scott-Nelson and Sadie Restorick. These two amazing entrepreneurs are changing the way businesses are looking after their teams by creating phenomenal health and wellbeing programmes that are designed to help break the confines of work expectations and pressures whilst allowing you to feel empowered to manage your own wellbeing.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
We’ve made some progress in breaking down stigmas and taboos around mental health in the workplace, but there’s still a long way to go. What managers can do to en...2022-05-3058 min
Hair LifeTop Ten Tips Reasons Salons Or Businesses FailThis episode of Hair Life is a companion piece to the last episode in which Nathan talked about the ten biggest business learnings he’s had over the years. In this episode he points out the top ten reasons salons and businesses fail and how you can avoid them.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Growing too fast: While growing your salon is a desirable thing to do, over-expansion can be a serious error. Taking on additional overheads can spur you to overextend your business financially. Set yourself realistic goals and expand only if your needs dictate it.
Fai...2022-05-1616 min
Hair LifeTen Tips For A Better Business – Hair Life with Nathan PlumridgeIn this episode Nathan talks about the ten biggest business learnings he’s had over the last 24 years, but more specifically from the last ten years.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Competitors can be your best source of revenue. I was terrified of the competition when I first started as a hairdresser and meant I worked 6 days a week doing 12 hours shifts. After I started meeting my competition, they all seemed to be doing the same as me. But after a while I realised there are plenty of guests to go around and some guests don’t suit on salo...2022-05-0936 min
Hair LifeNo D***heads AllowedIn this episode Nathan talks about developing an inspired and driven team by getting rid of the d***heads in your team.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Life’s been throwing me a few curve balls recently and it’s made me look at things within our salon and business in general. It’s also made me look at who is in our salon, my team and the team as individuals, how they work and how they act as a team.
In order to grown your business and your team you need a truly clear vision, but also a...2022-04-1109 min
Hair LifeWhat’s Going On ?In this episode Nathan expresses his thoughts and feelings on the current state of the world and how keeping happy is a lot harder than you think.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
In 30 years of being a salon owner I’ve never ever experienced so many lows and messed up people with crazy, screwed up situations. It is not the world I want to be in.
Have you just had enough of it? Are you not fed up of hearing shit from your clients and friends, doesn’t it make you think why the hell am I not on...2022-03-2803 min
Hair LifeDo People Really Care What You Look Like? Body ConfidenceIn this episode Nathan talks about bodies: Do we like them? How do we feel about them? And, if we don’t feel great about them, what can we do to make ourselves feel better?
KEY TAKEAWAYS
The issue of our bodies and body image has come up a lot in the last couple of weeks on the podcast as well as in my team. As a job, I talk daily to our guests in the salon and the team. I see and hear a lot about the issues and it’s especially a big s...2022-03-2111 min
Hair LifeFairness and Parity in the Hair IndustryIn this episode Nathan talks to three of the founding members of the Salon Employers Association (SEA) – Toby Dicker of the Chapel Group, Edward Hemmings of Alan D Education and Stephen Nurse of Daniel Galvin – to discuss how the hair industry needs changes to make it a fair playing field for salons who employ their teams.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
We initially set up a WhatApp group to try to make sense of the Government’s guidelines to Covid, because they were so confused and the language they used wasn’t very hairdressing friendly. We used it to make...2022-03-1440 min
Hair LifeInterview With Béatrice DautzenbergIn this episode Nathan talks to Béatrice Dautzenberg, Managing Director of L’Oréal Professional Products Division for the UK and Ireland, to celebrate International Women’s Day and share some tips and guidance on how to succeed both at work and at home.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
There is never a perfect balance between family life and work, I get asked this a lot by younger women. When I was a young mother and leader, I tried to do everything perfectly but that created tension. When I realised I could only do the best I could...2022-03-0740 min
PODCulture!Wrestletalk w/ Nathan PlumridgeThis week we have a special guest on the show, he's a good friend of the podcast and an old friend of ours. We have a long talk about the state of professional wrestling and his favourite flavour of Fanta. 2022-03-041h 20
Hair LifeA Healthier You and Your TeamIn this episode Nathan talks about what else the Hair Life podcast is about: Living your best life. One of the biggest topics of discussion he’s noticed recently is keeping healthy as you age, so here he suggests some things you need to be aware of and some solutions for you to keep fit and feel good.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Every salon worker and owner has probably worked a day in the salon where they feel beaten up by standing all day and moving in awkward positions. This is something I think about when I l...2022-02-2111 min
Hair LifeOne Year No Beer – Hair Life with Nathan PlumridgeIn this episode Nathan is joined by Ruari Fairbairns, co-founder of the One Year No Beer programme and author of the 28 Day Challenge to talk about the company he’s set up, the advantages of choosing not to drink and much more.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
I was a party boy when I became an oil broker, I was always the first to call for shots, the last man standing at the end of the night and usually naked. It was my way of dealing what was going on in my head; work like an addict during the we...2022-02-1439 min
Hair LifeMarginal Gains Within The SalonIn this episode Nathan Plumridge follows on from last week’s podcast about costs and how they’re killing the salon industry. This week he focuses on marginal gains: What are they? These are something that top sports teams and individuals use every day in order to make them grow and make them the best that they can be. Just making a small tweak and increasing your potential by 1% can make a huge impact over time. There’s a great opportunity to use this in the hair industry and Nathan explains how.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
If you...2022-02-0715 min
Hair LifeAre Costs Killing You And What Can I Do About It?In this episode Nathan Plumridge talks about the self-care industry, is it being killed by the costs that we’re now getting and, if so, what strategies and things can we put in place to survive 2022 and kill it in 2023?
KEY TAKEAWAYS
It’s been a very hard few years. In 2019, the hairdressing, fitness and beauty industry was growing at its fastest rate for years, we were all crushing it with cash in the bank and making refurbishments and taking on staff. Then the pandemic happened. Two years later we’re all still feeling the eff...2022-01-3126 min
Hair LifeInterview With Hayley JepsonIn this episode Nathan Plumridge is joined by Hayley Jepson, a mental health coach for hairdressers, who works with individual hairdressers and salon owners. Previously she was a hairdresser who suffered from depression and, after her own therapy, became a therapist herself, which puts her in the perfect space to talk hairdressers through their mental health problems. In this episode the tow talk about noticing the signs of burnout and how you can combat it.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
As a coach, you’re best to coach around what you know well, however, the difference between busi...2022-01-2438 min
Hair Life18 Ways To Have A Better 2022In this episode Nathan Plumridge present his 18 ways he thinks we can potentially make 2022 an even better year than the last couple.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Do all the things that you said you were going to do in 2021: travel, exercise more, drink less and get better at my finances.
Look at your circle of influence. If they’re negative, or battery drainers, and they don’t align with your core values then cut them out of your life and be around the people that charge you.
Check your self-talk. The conversation you have with yourself today has the...2022-01-1720 min
Hair LifeInterview With Rob MooreIn this episode Nathan Plumridge speaks to Rob Moore, author, double world record holder, multi-millionaire, the UK’s biggest business podcaster, an educator, creator, mentor to millionaires all over the world. The pair talk about entrepreneurship and running successful businesses and where Rob’s boundless energy comes from.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
If you want to be an entrepreneur and be productive for 10 hours a day and you want to change the world and you need the energy for that, drinking more than one alcoholic drink a night will kill your productivity the next day.
Entrepreneurship isn’t someth...2022-01-1030 min
Hair LifeInterview with Ian BishopIn this episode Nathan Plumridge speaks to Ian Bishop, co-owner of the very ethical hair colour brand Organic Colour Systems. They discuss the brand in great detail and the shift in the hair industry for a cleaner and more environmentally friendly way of doing what it’s done for years.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
The colour took two full years of development. The branding and the products we use as part of our system is really a well-being thing. It’s not just the non-ammonia colour with the certified organic ingredients and the natural base, we look afte...2022-01-0345 min
Hair LifeInterview with Edward HemmingsIn this episode Nathan Plumridge talks to Edward Hemmings, owner and salon director of the Alan d Education Group. With over 30 years of hair and education experience, Edward and his team provide outstanding hair and barbering education from their two sites in London and Ipswich. The pair talk about education in the hair industry and a number of other key subjects.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Young hairdressers need to get clients in their 60s and 70s, they’re brilliant clients. They come in every four weeks needing a colour and a perm done, it’s fantastic!
If...2021-12-2738 min
Hair LifeAll Things Colour - Interview with Hair Colour Expert and Educator Carolyn NewmanIn this episode Nathan Plumridge talks all things colour with Carolyn Newman who has had a career spanning over 35 years as a hair colour expert and educator. Carolyn has won numerous awards such as the Most Wanted Colourist 2012 and has been covered in major magazines such as Tatler, Vogue and Marie Claire, she has also appeared on TV shows like GMTV, This Morning, Working Lunch and many more.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Being a manager taught me how to manage people, which meant that when I moved into education it was easy for me. I’d learned how to...2021-12-2054 min
Hair LifeInterview with Award Winning Salon Owner and Hair Stylist Lorraine HumeIn this episode Nathan Plumridge is joined by Lorraine Hume, a salon owner and the reigning L'Oréal Colour Trophy champion – one of the biggest competitions in British hairdressing. The pair talk about her experiences, colour trends and what it’s like to run a busy hair salon.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
We streamed the L'Oréal Colour Trophy Awards live in a bar/restaurant with mine and my team’s family and friends. We didn’t expect to win anything, we just wanted to have a nice time and celebrate getting to the finals, especially because of all tha...2021-12-1340 min
Hair LifeInterview with VictoriaIn this episode Nathan Plumridge is joined by his first guest, hairpeneuer and multi-award winner salon owner Victoria Mavin. The pair discuss what it’s like to start a business and the challenges it brings.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
There are some people who love hair extensions and some who hate them. My focus – and what’s worked well for me – was on quality, systems, follow-ups, maintenance, aftercare, etc. When you’re putting things into people’s hair, there’s a whole heap of other things to consider and more things that can go wrong. It was that that was...2021-12-0637 min
Hair LifeSurviving The PandemicIn this episode Nathan Plumridge brings you up to date with where his business is at today, surviving the pandemic and the learning that came out of it.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
After my Dad died, I felt alone but I also felt more in control, everything about the business was now down to me and I found it easier to get on a grow in the way I wanted it to. It was almost as if the shackles had come off and gave me utter clarity about how I wanted Energy to look and feel. So, I...2021-11-2916 min
Hair LifeA Roller Coaster of EmotionsIn this episode Nathan Plumridge talks about his father and the emotional roller coaster of being a carer and finding out some pretty bad news. He wishes to share this information because it was pivotal in his life with his father but also to give an insight into the experiences they shared together.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Me and my Dad had a business and we were best mates. We argued about most things, but we always managed to sort it out and make up. It was an incredible part of my life. After a year and a ha...2021-11-2916 min
Hair LifeThe Biggest Challenges In Being a Salon OwnerIn this episode Nathan Plumridge talks about relocating to a new premises and the ups and downs that brought to the business as well as the incredible beginning of a new business and what that brought to everyone in it. The episode also includes the biggest change in his life and the beginning of something incredible.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
We got to a change where we had outgrown our current site and needed to start again somewhere bigger. It’s a huge decision and involved a number of factors including parking and access, gaining additional footfall and it...2021-11-2918 min
Hair LifeGrowing Up In The Culture & Creating A BrandIn this episode Nathan Plumridge explains where he started to grow his salon culture and how it’s developed into the culture and brand that it embodies today. Also, he talks about the services that have enabled him to expand and create a different offering for his clients and getting to the point of opening new sites.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
At 5-6 years in to owning the salon we’d expanded at least twice and expanded the team to 8-10. This was where creating a culture that had a really strong professional element to it was massive. Like...2021-11-2916 min
Hair LifeStarting & Scaling a Salon Business (with my Dad!)In this episode Nathan describes the highs and lows of starting up and growing a hair salon with his Dad and navigating the issues that come with starting up. The emphasis of this episode is his relationship with, and memories of his Dad as he has now been gone for six years.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
It was an incredible feeling; opening a business with my Dad. It was one of my greatest achievements and I got to spend so much quality time with him. Though, working with my him daily could be a challenge, his customer...2021-11-2921 min
Hair LifeAmbition to Salon- A Fireball of Hair Energy & A Brief History of Nathan (YOUR HOST)In the first episode of the Hair Life podcast, host Nathan Plumridge introduces himself and his business and sets out his intentions for the podcast including the good and the bad of the hairdressing, beauty, fitness, health and nutrition industries.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
All the things we’ve been through in the last 18 months made me loo at myself and think I just want to be in the best shape in every level – mentally and physically.
I wanted to be a vet but was put off it by the cousin of one of my best frien...2021-11-2918 min
Hair LifeIntroduction – Hair Life with Nathan PlumridgeHi and Welcome to the Hair Life Podcast with me Nathan Plumridge.
28 years ago I was a confused teenager who had no real idea of what I wanted to do as a career and no real passion for anything!
But then I found hairdressing! Jump forwards 28 years and I now have a large independent 7 figure hair salon with a team of 25 and still growing.
But being a Salon owner or a Hair Entrepreneur is not easy and I want to share my thoughts, experiences and passions with you and let you know warts and...2021-11-2401 min
Brave ConversationsSustainer: Dealing with the Pain of Grief and LossIn this episode, Danni chats with Christian music artist Nathan Plumridge, about his journey through the loss of his close friend and sister-in-law Elise, to breast cancer, and the song that God inspired to sustain them.braveenough.orgNathan Plumridge MusicSupport the show (http://braveenough.org/donate)2020-04-2827 min
Puttin' In Work with Jono PechNathan Plumridge (musician) - E123Nathan Plumridge talks about his journey in music, writing and recording his new EP in Nashville, and the challenge of self-promoting.
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Check out our podcasting host, Pinecast. Start your own podcast for free, no credit card required, forever. If you decide to upgrade, use coupon code r-f44d1d for 40% off for 4 months, and support Puttin' In Work with Jono Pech.2019-06-1234 min