Ellen Crupi of HabitAware joins us to share how stylists can recognize and compassionately support clients dealing with trichotillomania and other body-focused repetitive behaviors—offering tools, hope, and healing behind the chair.

Follow/subscribe to be the first to know when new episodes are released. Like what you hear? Leave us a review!

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

🔅Trichotillomania and other Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors (BFRBs)—like hair pulling, skin picking, and nail biting—are common yet often misunderstood conditions rooted in stress, not vanity or lack of discipline.

🔅Stylists are on the front lines and can play a powerful role in supporting clients with these disorders through empathy and awareness.

🔅HabitAware’s Keen bracelet helps individuals gain awareness of their repetitive behaviors by vibrating during triggering movements, allowing them to make conscious choices.

🔅The condition often begins in childhood, particularly around puberty, and impacts people regardless of gender, ethnicity, or background.

🔅There is no quick fix, but tools like Keen, therapy, and peer support can help people gain control and build healthier habits.

🔅Salon owners can position their business as safe, informed spaces by providing resources and training—potentially gaining new loyal clients in the process.

💡Email Ellen (ellen@habitaware.com) if you are interested in receiving brochures on Trichotillomania and other Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors (BFRBs)

👉Follow HabitAware on Instagram

👉Check out HabitAware's website - www.habitaware.com

💡Read Ellen's Modern Salon Article - How to Help Clients With a Hair-Pulling Disorder

👉Check out Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors Changemakers - www.bfrbchangemakers.org

The Hairdresser Strong Show is all about Salon Owners, Rising Stylists, and Seasoned Stylists sharing their experiences, successes, failures, and advice to inform, educate, and empower their Fellow Hairdresser. We won’t stop until we are all: Hairdresser Strong.

CONNECT WITH US

📬 Subscribe to our free newsletter

📸 Connect on Instagram

🎵 Connect on TikTok

📺 Watch on YouTube

📝 Check out our Blog

The views and opinions of our guests are theirs and important to hear. Each guest's views and opinions are their own and we aim to bring you diverse perspectives, career paths and thoughts about the craft and industry so you can become Hairdresser Strong! They do not necessarily reflect the positions of HairdresserStrong.com.

What does it take to go full-time in a suite?

Tiffany Anyanwu breaks it down—from balancing side gigs and budgeting wisely to setting boundaries and nurturing client relationships that go deeper than hair. Her journey is a real look at the hard work behind building something of your own in today’s beauty industry.

Follow/subscribe to be the first to know when new episodes are released. Like what you hear? Leave us a review!

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

🔅Tiffany’s Transition to Independence: After four years of building her experience in both commission and hourly-based salons, Tiffany took the leap into full-time suite ownership—marking a personal and professional milestone.

🔅Gradual Growth Strategy: She maintained financial stability by continuing to work at a dry bar while gradually building her own clientele, illustrating a smart and sustainable approach to going independent.

🔅Client Relationships Matter: Tiffany built deep, loyal connections with her clients, often seeing them grow with her over time—from proms and weddings to baby showers—highlighting the personal nature of her business.

🔅Boundaries & Systems: She stresses the importance of creating clear cancellation policies and establishing boundaries around time management and self-care as a solo stylist.

🔅Advice for Aspiring Stylists: Tiffany encourages new stylists to learn from different salon environments before going independent, emphasizing the importance of humility, budgeting, and learning from mistakes.

🔅Vision & Expansion: As she nears her one-year anniversary in her suite, Tiffany is already thinking about future growth—possibly expanding her brand to New Jersey while staying rooted in her values.

👉Follow Tiffany on IG here.

The Hairdresser Strong Show is all about Salon Owners, Rising Stylists, and Seasoned Stylists sharing their experiences, successes, failures, and advice to inform, educate, and empower their Fellow Hairdresser. We won’t stop until we are all: Hairdresser Strong.

CONNECT WITH US

📬 Subscribe to our free newsletter

📸 Connect on Instagram

🎵 Connect on TikTok

📺 Watch on YouTube

📝 Check out our Blog

The views and opinions of our guests are theirs and important to hear. Each guest's views and opinions are their own and we aim to bring you diverse perspectives, career paths and thoughts about the craft and industry so you can become Hairdresser Strong! They do not necessarily reflect the positions of HairdresserStrong.com.

Trump Tariffs = Uncertainty around Inflation + Slowing Interest Rate Cuts!

What do we do during uncertain times? How are our customers feeling? + A special fun story to change the subject from Fear, Uncertainty, and Doubt!

Check out this week's news updates, build Strong Business, and serve your customers better!

Takeaways:

📉 Stock Market & Economy

U.S. markets saw major drops in Q1 2025 due to tariff concerns.

S&P 500 down 4.6%, Nasdaq down 10.5%—worst quarter since 2022.

Tech stocks were hit hard (e.g., Tesla down 36%).

🧾 New Tariff Announcements

President Trump plans to implement new tariffs on “Liberation Day.”

Aimed at reducing reliance on foreign goods, but details unclear.

Analysts warn of higher prices and lower household income.

💸 Consumer Spending & Inflation

Consumer spending up 0.4% in February—but inflation still sticky.

Core PCE inflation rose 2.8% year-over-year, raising stagflation fears.

Spending is up, but prices are still outpacing wage growth for many.

😟 Consumer Sentiment

Confidence dropped nearly 18% in March.

Economic outlook among consumers is becoming increasingly negative.

Could impact how much people spend in the months ahead.

🚀 Astronaut Curveball Story

NASA astronauts Butch Wilmore & Suni Williams spent 9+ months in space due to Boeing Starliner issues.

The mission was meant to be short-term—extended for safety.

Despite delays, astronauts voiced full confidence in Starliner’s future.

We are all impacted by the economy and tech advancements. Your clients are, too!

+

Being informed is an integral part of the success of any community or business.

+

You now have extra things to talk to your customers about!

Sources:

https://www.reuters.com/markets/us/futures-tumble-tariffs-fuel-recession-worries-2025-03-31/?utm_source=chatgpt.com

+

https://www.msnbc.com/morning-joe/watch/-couldn-t-care-less-trump-embraces-price-hikes-ahead-of-tariff-rollout-235838021947

+

https://www.reuters.com/markets/us/us-consumer-spending-rises-february-core-inflation-firmer-2025-03-28/?utm_source=chatgpt.com

+

https://www.thetimes.com/us/news-today/article/nasa-astronauts-press-conference-stuck-space-iss-wzv7fzw2s?utm_source=chatgpt.com®ion=global

Coming up in the hair industry I never understood why hairdressing is not as respectable as getting a college degree required job... Now, I think the college degree idea is changing, but still not quite there with hairdressing. Join us in changing that!

One of our missions is to raise the esteem and perceived importance & value of hairdressers across the USA. HdS NEWS is part of that effort. We believe to achieve this goal, we must raise the bar of professionalism, service, and sophistication of hairdressers. We hope you enjoy the news and look forward to your comments!

Is this useful?

Is this interesting?

Are there any other topics you pay attention to that you believe help you run your business or serve your customers?

DISCLAIMER: Robert holds a B.A. in Business Administration with a Minor in Finance. Robert curates the news, explaining his understanding. We suggest you use this information to talk with your financial advisor, business advisor, and/or CPA. Legal counsel may be required for some of your decisions as well. If you want business advice from Hairdresser Strong, you can hire us as a consultant/advisor, but we are not financial advisors, lawyers, or accountants.

THIS IS NOT...

April is Stress Awareness Month, making it the perfect time to rethink how we handle pressure behind the chair.

Tune in to hear Dr. Rebecca Heiss, a stress physiologist and author, break down the science of stress, revealing how hairstylists can reframe pressure and turn stress into a tool for success in a fast-paced, client-focused industry.

🔔Follow/subscribe to be the first to know when new episodes are released. Like what you hear? Leave us a review!



KEY TAKEAWAYS:

🔅Stress is a Tool, Not an Enemy – Dr. Heiss explains that stress itself isn’t bad; our perception of it determines its impact.

🔅Reframing Stress Can Change Your Life – When we view stress as a source of energy, we can channel it into motivation and resilience.

🔅Your Brain’s Survival Mode Can Work Against You – Our stress responses are wired for survival, but by understanding them, we can redirect stress to work for us.

🔅Mindset is Everything – Research shows that believing stress is harmful makes it more damaging. Shifting this belief can improve health and performance.

🔅Breathe Like a Pro – Slowing down your exhale signals safety to your nervous system, helping you stay calm and focused behind the chair.

🔅Reframe Client Stress – Instead of seeing a difficult client as a threat, shift your perspective—this is an opportunity to improve your communication skills and build resilience.

🔅Move Your Body to Reset – A short walk between appointments or shaking out your hands can help discharge built-up stress and prevent burnout.

🔅Community is Key – Connection with others can help reduce stress and improve well-being. Talking to fellow stylists can make challenges feel more manageable.

💡Connect/Follow Dr. Heiss on LinkedIn

📷 Follow Dr. Heiss on Instagram

👉Send Dr. Heiss an email - rebecca@rebeccaheiss.com

💡Learn more about Dr. Heiss and her work

👉Get a copy of "Springboard: Transform Stress to Work for You" by Dr. Heiss

The Hairdresser Strong Show is all about Salon Owners, Rising Stylists, Seasoned Stylists, and Industry Professionals sharing their experiences, successes, failures, and advice to inform, educate, and empower their Fellow Hairdresser. We won’t stop until we are all: Hairdresser Strong.⁠

CONNECT WITH US

📬 Subscribe to our free newsletter

📸 Connect on Instagram

🎵 Connect on TikTok

📺 Watch on YouTube

📝 Check out our Blog

The views and opinions of our guests are theirs and important to hear. Each guest's views and opinions are their own

💬 This isn’t just another podcast…we’re releasing our 3/12 Community Conversation from Instagram Live with Ashleigh Taylor of Taylor and York Salon in Washington, DC.

The DMV is changing fast—layoffs, inflation, and uncertainty are on everyone’s mind, including our clients. As hairstylists, we’re not just service providers; we’re trusted confidants, problem solvers, and business owners navigating these challenges alongside our customers.

• So how do we keep them coming back when they’re cutting back❓
• Should we raise prices or cut expenses❓
• And how do we protect our energy while supporting others❓

💡We’re sharing real talk, smart strategies, and actionable steps to protect your business, your well-being, and your future—without burnout.

🔊 Listen in and let us know💭: How are YOU adapting?

Follow/subscribe to be the first to know when new episodes are released. Like what you hear? Leave us a review!

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Protecting Your Business

• Evaluate your pricing: Is now the right time to raise prices?
• Identify areas to cut costs without sacrificing quality.
• Focus on retention—how to keep clients coming back even when they’re budgeting.
• Stay proactive: Marketing and engagement strategies for slow periods.

Protecting Your Energy

• Set boundaries with clients—being supportive doesn’t mean absorbing their stress.
• Self-care is non-negotiable: How to recharge without guilt.
• Avoid burnout by balancing service excellence with personal well-being.

Elevating Your Service

• Small tweaks that create big impact—enhancing value without increasing workload.
• Communicating your worth: How to confidently navigate pricing conversations.
• Creative add-ons that make clients feel cared for (without extra cost to you).

👉If you have any questions 💭 or comments, Send us a DM

👉Connect with Ashleigh on Instagram

👉Connect with Robert on Instagram

The Hairdresser Strong Show is all about Salon Owners, Rising Stylists, and Seasoned Stylists sharing their experiences, successes, failures, and advice to inform, educate, and empower their Fellow Hairdresser. We won’t stop until we are all: Hairdresser Strong.

CONNECT WITH US

📬 Subscribe to our free newsletter

📸

In this episode, Dr. Adrin Seven Washington—celebrity stylist, educator, and business strategist—shares how he built a career working with top names like Patti LaBelle and Naomi Campbell while earning a doctorate in cosmetology.

We discuss the importance of education, networking, finding your niche, and creating multiple income streams to achieve long-term success in the beauty industry.

🔔Follow/subscribe to be the first to know when new episodes are released. Like what you hear? Leave us a review!



KEY TAKEAWAYS:

🔅Education Opens Doors: Dr. Adrin Seven earned his doctorate in cosmetology from the National Institute of Cosmetology, an institution founded by Madam C.J. Walker to provide advanced education for beauty professionals.

🔅Celebrity Styling & Industry Influence: His career has led him to work with high-profile clients like Patti LaBelle, Naomi Campbell, and major TV networks, showcasing the power of skill, reputation, and networking.

🔅The Power of Specialization: Dr. Seven emphasizes the importance of finding your niche in the beauty industry—whether it's hair extensions, color, or another specialty—to stand out and command higher rates.

🔅Multiple Streams of Income: To create long-term success, beauty professionals should explore various income streams, from salon work and education to consulting and product development.

🔅Networking is Key: Success in beauty often comes from strong relationships, mentorship, and being in the right rooms—aligning yourself with industry leaders can open doors.

🔅The Business Side of Beauty Matters: Beyond technical skills, beauty professionals must learn about business, financial literacy, and customer service to build sustainable careers.

💡Follow Dr. Seven on Instagram

📷 Follow Seven & Company on Instagram

The Hairdresser Strong Show is all about Salon Owners, Rising Stylists, Seasoned Stylists, and Industry Professionals sharing their experiences, successes, failures, and advice to inform, educate, and empower their Fellow Hairdresser. We won’t stop until we are all: Hairdresser Strong.⁠

CONNECT WITH US

📬 Subscribe to our free newsletter

📸 Connect on Instagram

🎵 Connect on TikTok

📺 Watch on YouTube

📝 Check out our Blog

The views and opinions of our guests are theirs and important to hear. Each guest's views and opinions are their own and we aim to bring you diverse perspectives, career paths and thoughts about the craft and industry so you can...

What does it really take to help new stylists succeed?

In this episode, Wayne White—hairstylist, educator, and former Marine—shares his insights on mentorship, patience, and the challenges facing new professionals in the beauty industry. We discuss how to bridge the gap between school and real-world success, why so many stylists struggle with anxiety, and how salon owners can better support rising talent.

🔔Follow/subscribe to be the first to know when new episodes are released. Like what you hear? Leave us a review!

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

🔅Patience is Key: Both salon owners and seasoned stylists need to be patient with new talent, guiding them as they transition from school to the real world.

🔅The Reality of Anxiety in New Stylists: Many young professionals enter the industry with high anxiety and unrealistic expectations about career progression.

🔅Education & Mentorship Matter: Bridging the gap between theory and hands-on experience is crucial for student success, and seasoned professionals should be more open to mentorship.

🔅Building a Career Takes Time: Many stylists leave the industry too soon because they don’t see immediate success. Wayne stresses that hard work, consistency, and persistence are essential.

🔅The Importance of Professionalism: Cleanliness, organization, and punctuality are non-negotiables in a successful career. Being late or unprepared sends the wrong message to both clients and colleagues.

🔅There Are No Secrets in Hairdressing: Sharing knowledge and supporting others benefits the entire industry—competition should be about self-improvement, not keeping others down.

The Hairdresser Strong Show is all about Salon Owners, Rising Stylists, Seasoned Stylists, and Industry Professionals sharing their experiences, successes, failures, and advice to inform, educate, and empower their Fellow Hairdresser. We won’t stop until we are all: Hairdresser Strong.⁠

CONNECT WITH US

📬 Subscribe to our free newsletter

📸 Connect on Instagram

🎵 Connect on TikTok

📺 Watch on YouTube

📝 Check out our Blog

The views and opinions of our guests are theirs and important to hear. Each guest's views and opinions are their own and we aim to bring you diverse perspectives, career paths and thoughts about the craft and industry so you can become Hairdresser Strong! They do not necessarily reflect the positions of HairdresserStrong.com.

From apprentice to President of John Paul Mitchell Systems, Jason Yates' journey is proof that hard work, humility, and seizing the right opportunities can lead to incredible success. In this episode, Jason shares his insights on leadership, career growth, and why the beauty industry is as resilient as ever.

🔔Follow/subscribe to be the first to know when new episodes are released. Like what you hear? Leave us a review!

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

🔅From Stylist to President: Jason Yates started as a 15-year-old apprentice in the UK and worked his way up to become the President of John Paul Mitchell Systems, proving that dedication and adaptability can open incredible doors.

🔅Hard Work & Humility Are Key: Yates credits his success to working harder than those around him, staying humble, and constantly learning—even from those with less experience.

🔅Opportunities Come from Taking Risks: He emphasizes the importance of overcoming fear and taking chances, noting that many talented stylists don’t advance because they hesitate to step outside their comfort zones.

🔅The Beauty Industry is Resilient: While salons and stylists face challenges, Yates remains optimistic, stating that successful professionals will always find ways to innovate and thrive.

🔅Loyalty and Long-Term Growth Matter: He believes that sticking with the right opportunities and gaining real experience over time leads to greater success than chasing quick promotions or job-hopping.

🔅The Industry Thrives on Relationships: Whether behind the chair, in education, or corporate leadership, building strong relationships and partnerships has been a crucial part of his journey.

💡Connect/Follow Jason on LinkedIn

📷 Check out Paul Mitchell on Instagram

The Hairdresser Strong Show is all about Salon Owners, Rising Stylists, Seasoned Stylists, and Industry Professionals sharing their experiences, successes, failures, and advice to inform, educate, and empower their Fellow Hairdresser. We won’t stop until we are all: Hairdresser Strong.⁠

CONNECT WITH US

📬 Subscribe to our free newsletter

📸 Connect on Instagram

🎵 Connect on TikTok

📺 Watch on YouTube

📝 Check out our Blog

The views and opinions of our guests are theirs and important to hear. Each guest's views and opinions are their own and we aim to bring you diverse perspectives, career paths and thoughts about the craft and industry so you can become Hairdresser Strong! They do not...