In this episode, Natasha welcomes industry expert Natasha Johnson, who brings over two decades of experience in the hair and beauty sector. They delve into Natasha's journey from a young salon manager in Holland Park to her current role as a business consultant, emphasising the importance of blending creative education with commercial growth. Natasha shares insights on the challenges faced by the industry post-pandemic, the impact of AI, and the necessity of maintaining a human touch in service. KEY TAKEAWAYS Importance of Education in the Industry: Continuous education is crucial in the hair and beauty industry, as trends and techniques are constantly evolving. Customer Experience Matters: Exceptional customer service and creating a personalised experience are vital for client retention. Clients are willing to travel for quality service, highlighting the importance of making them feel valued and cared for. Well-being Focus: There is a growing emphasis on well-being and self-care in society, with more individuals recognising the importance of grooming and personal care as part of their overall health and happiness. Challenges in the Industry: The hair and beauty industry faces challenges, particularly post-pandemic, including rising costs and the need for effective business management alongside creativity. Success requires balancing both aspects. Human Connection Over Technology: While technology, including AI, can assist with administrative tasks, the essence of the hair and beauty industry lies in human interaction and the personal touch that professionals provide to their clients. BEST MOMENTS "I often think in our industry, we're very creative and we forget the business side of stuff. And I don't think it should just be a labour of love. We're here to make money too." "I believe if you want to do something, if you put yourself to it, you 100% can do it. Everything is capable. But just don't join the industry if you imagine it's going to be a walk in the park." "I think that there are lots of spaces now that are just exclusively for nails and give people that experience. I'm enjoying this higher-end side of nails." "There's a lot of stress, there's a lot of stuff happening in life, sometimes we're overworked, sometimes you've just got a lot on, and it's that, okay, what about you? Your moment." "I think it's really important we don't lose that human touch. People come to us because they want to feel touched." OUR LINKS www.exquisitesalon.co https://www.instagram.com/exquisite1hbs/⁠ ⁠HOST BIO Natasha is a seasoned hairdresser with over 14 years of experience in the beauty industry, renowned for her passion, skill, and dedication to her craft. Specialising in creating personalised, stunning styles, she has worked with clients of all hair types, consistently earning a reputation for boosting confidence and empowering individuals through their hair transformations. Natasha’s approach combines creativity with precision, ensuring each client feels valued and understood. Natasha looks to share insights from the world of hairstyling, creativity, and inspiration, alongside real conversations and meaningful discussions This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/