Beauty Business Matters

It is easy to get completely wrapped up in the daily grind of running a business, but sometimes the greatest growth happens when you finally step back and give your team the space to breathe. This special compilation episode brings together the absolute best highlights and golden nuggets from previous conversations with industry powerhouses like Lara Morgan, Amanda Winwood, and Helen Portman-Brookes. From the chaotic world of film set prosthetics to navigating a complete business overhaul during lockdown, this episode dives deep into what it truly means to evolve. Discover why micro-management is a precarious trap, how to completely...

Imagine a massage where you never have to turn over, your makeup stays intact, and you drift away on a bed of perfectly heated water. This isn't a futuristic luxury—it's the reality of a face up Hydrotherm treatment. Long-term wear and tear on a therapist's hands and wrists can end a career prematurely, but switching to a fluid, water-supported method preserves your body while offering an exceptional client experience. From creating a completely inclusive treatment for pregnant or oncology clients to seamlessly blending facials and back massages into a single premium service, it’s time to rethink the trad...

Ever feel like you’re shouting into an empty void on social media, spending hours making reels that get plenty of likes but zero new clients? Chris Taylor has built an entire business on the philosophy that you don’t need millions of followers to make serious money. In this high-energy conversation, the founder of Social Salon shares how he accidentally fell into the industry by documenting his own professional journey—and how that blueprint can transform your salon's bottom line. We break down the absolute myth of the "ideal video length" and explore why tracking buyer behaviour across your d...

Ever been told "no" and felt it just wasn't the right answer? Amanda Winwood has built an entire wellness legacy on asking "why." From witnessing her mother’s holistic lifestyle in a tiny Cheshire village to leading a movement in oncology massage, Amanda is a true force of nature in the beauty and hospitality sectors. In this episode, we dive into the 26-year evolution of Made for Life Organics and the defining moment a receptionist’s diagnosis changed Amanda’s mission forever. We discuss the legalities of the Equality Act, the science of psychosensory touch, and the unique "festival vibe"...

Ever wondered what it takes to keep a salon thriving for over three decades—and keep staff for over twenty years? Alison Laws joins us to share her incredible journey from opening a tiny "broom cupboard" salon in the Metro Centre to running Jesmond Beauty, a multi-floor landmark in the North East. In this candid chat, we dive into the secret sauce of her team’s longevity, including her "Rising Star" apprenticeship programme and the unique "buddy system" that ensures no one feels isolated. Alison opens up about the pivotal moment she moved 100 miles away from her business and how...

Ever felt like the beauty industry treats multicultural skin and textured hair as an "afterthought"? Lola Maja is on a mission to change that narrative through Tones of Beauty. In this vibrant chat, Lola shares her journey from being a 14-year-old beauty enthusiast to becoming a world-renowned MUA and educator. We explore the massive expansion of the Tones of Beauty Expo at London ExCeL—a groundbreaking event that combines a high-level B2B trade show with CPD-certified education. From niche fragrances to "the ones to watch" in homegrown UK brands, Lola explains how this show provides a long-overdue platform fo...

Ever felt like a headless chicken running between multiple locations, only to realise you were basically earning a McDonald's wage for the stress of it? Rachel Cobley has been there, done that, and bought the four salons to prove it. In this candid chat, we dive into the "busy-ness" trap that many salon owners fall into and why bigger isn't always better.

From her early days as a competitive swimmer to opening a cabin in her garden and eventually managing a team of 20, Rachel shares the highs, the lows, and the pivotal moment she decided to condense...

Walking into a clinic and seeing a wall full of certificates used to be enough to feel safe, but the reality behind those frames is becoming a bit of a minefield. With the aesthetics industry still finding its feet in terms of regulation, it’s easier than ever for practitioners to get caught out by "fast-track" courses that aren't worth the paper they're printed on. Magda Jizerska joined me to talk about why she’s obsessed with closing the gap between having a certificate and actually being verifiable. We dive into the recruitment headaches that led to the birth of V...

Imagine walking away from a legal career to bet everything on a "cream box with batteries" in the middle of a 90s recession. That’s exactly what Dean Nathanson did, and 34 years later, CACI International is a global powerhouse found in over 100 countries. Dean joins the show to share the incredible "big top" origins of the brand, the moment Princess Diana’s endorsement sent demand through the roof, and why face-to-face relationships still trump digital clicks in the beauty world. We dive deep into the transition from treating muscle palsy to becoming the world’s most famous non-surgical facelift, and ho...

Ever wondered why that viral skincare product left your skin irritated or patchy? It’s because for decades, the industry simply wasn't formulated with melanin in mind. Today’s guest is changing that narrative from the lab up. Dr. Vanita Rattan, a medical doctor and master cosmetic formulator, joins us to share her incredible journey from treating 40,000 hyperpigmentation cases in her London clinics to building a global brand that truly sees skin of colour.

We dive deep into the unique physiology of darker skin—from why our melanocytes are easier to trigger to why common ingredients like glycol...

Ever wondered if that one-day "Masterclass" certificate is actually worth the paper it’s printed on? In this episode, Susan Routledge sits down with industry powerhouse Joan Scott, CEO of Habia (Hair and Beauty Industry Authority). They peel back the curtain on the confusing world of hair and beauty qualifications, revealing why the term "accredited" has become a dirty word in professional circles.

Joan breaks down the vital difference between a government-regulated qualification and a "bedroom-run" accreditation, explaining how Habia sets the National Occupational Standards (NOS) that keep both practitioners and clients safe. From th...

Are you accidentally running your business like a charity? In part two of this deep dive, top business coach Shari Teigman joins Susan Routledge to expose the common pitfalls that trap service-based entrepreneurs. From the "friends and family" pricing trap to the burnout that comes from having 50 different "bosses" (aka your clients), Shari reveals why most business problems are actually leadership problems in disguise.

We explore the "Year of the Maverick" and why the post-COVID landscape has made human connection—and expert boundaries—the most valuable currency in the beauty industry. If you've ever felt...

Ever wondered what it takes to build a beauty empire while navigating the most turbulent waves of personal loss and professional scrutiny? In this episode of Beauty Business Matters, host Susan Routledge sits down with the irrepressible Lisa Comber, a serial entrepreneur who has spent over 20 years turning grit into glamour. From her early days as a mobile technician in Gran Canaria to the helm of multiple high-performing salons and a regulated training academy, Lisa’s story is a masterclass in resilience.

We dive deep into the "messy middle" of business ownership—the sudden salo...

If you feel like you’re doing everything “right” in your business but still feel completely disconnected from your results, you aren’t failing—you’re likely just wearing a mask that’s suffocating your success.

In this high-energy debut episode of Beauty Business Matters, host Susan Routledge sits down with the inimitable Shari Teigman, an international performance coach and creative strategist who splits her time between New York and the UK. Shari reveals the raw story behind the "Maverick" brand, moving from a high-stakes divorce and a "Stepford Wife" business model to becoming a powerhouse coach for elite entr...

In this deeply human follow-up conversation, Susan welcomes back Alex Belisle-Springer from Phorest, fresh from the 2026 Phorest Summit, to go further into what really matters as technology accelerates: care, connection, community, and belonging.

Alex reflects on the ripple effect of his unforgettable 2024 Phorest Summit keynote (no longer publicly available), sharing how personal storytelling can transform the way we lead teams, serve clients, and design experiences. Together, Susan and Alex explore how salons, spas, and clinics can be intentionally built around belonging, through everything from consultations and language to seating layouts, client notes, and the smallest “you remembered me...

At just 23 years old, armed with a marketing degree and personal experience of sun damage, Tracey made a bold decision: bring a little-known South African brand called Environ to the UK.

What started as a spark of belief in Vitamin A, and products made in a plastic surgeon’s kitchen, became a global, science-led movement in skin health.

In this episode, Tracey shares:

How Environ was born from a mission to prevent skin cancer

The early days of fax machines, Yellow Pages cold calls, and trade show hustle

Why sc...

Susan interviews Alex Belisle Springer, the global content creator for Phorest Salon Software and co-host of the Phorest FM podcast. Alex shares his unique journey from a sound recording background to becoming a key figure in the beauty industry, highlighting his experiences at the recent Phorest Summit, which saw record attendance. The conversation delves into the evolution of the podcast, the importance of human connection, and the impact of storytelling in the industry. Alex reflects on his personal growth over the past decade with Phorest, the challenges faced during the pandemic, and the exciting future of the podcast as...

Susan welcomes Lara Waldman, the renowned wealth activator and author, to discuss her transformative journey from struggling actress to successful healer and wealth coach. Lara shares her personal experiences of overcoming depression, trauma, and financial challenges, emphasising the importance of listening to one's body and intuition. The conversation delves into the concept of manifestation mastery, exploring how to identify and clear blocks to wealth and abundance. Listeners will gain insights into the significance of feeling safe in their healing journey and the interconnectedness of various aspects of wealth, including financial, emotional, and spiritual well-being.

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You wouldn’t ignore a client standing at your reception desk, yet so many businesses unknowingly ignore potential clients online. We are all glued to our phones, but are you actually reaching your customers where they spend their time?

Paul Green, a former commercial airline pilot turned marketing funnel expert, joins the show to dismantle the myth that automation makes you robotic. In fact, it might just be the most human thing you can do for your business.

We dive deep into why email open rates are plummeting while WhatsApp is seeing a massive 98% engagement ra...

Susan welcomes back entrepreneur Lara Morgan for a deep dive into the intersection of wellness, mental health, and entrepreneurship. Lara shares her journey from founding Pacific Direct to her current venture, Scented, which focuses on using fragrance to enhance well-being. The conversation explores the importance of mindfulness, the power of scent, and the role of personal experiences in shaping business ideas. Lara emphasises the significance of creating products that not only serve a purpose but also foster emotional connections, drawing on her own life lessons and the influence of her family. With insights on entrepreneurship, self-care, and the value...

In this episode of Beauty Business Matters, Susan sits down with celebrity, multi-award-winning facialist William Foley to explore his inspiring journey through the beauty, aesthetics, and wellness industry.

From starting out in fitness and holistic therapy to working with global luxury brands like ESPA and Rodial, and now running his own highly successful clinic and skincare brand, William shares the real story behind building a standout career in a competitive industry.

They discuss the realities of spa life, working on counter in Harvey Nichols and Selfridges, navigating sales targets, entering and winning major industry awards...

Susan engages in an inspiring conversation with entrepreneur Lara Morgan, who shares her remarkable journey from founding Pacific Direct, a company that grew to a £20 million global enterprise, to her current role as an investor in various brands. Lara reflects on her unique upbringing, the influence of her entrepreneurial parents, and the lessons learned from her early experiences in business. She discusses the importance of resilience, personal connections in sales, and the value of having a focused business strategy. The episode also touches on Lara's commitment to making a positive impact in the world through her investments, particularly in w...

Susan shares her exciting plans for 2026, including her move to Mallorca and the launch of a new mastermind program designed for salon and clinic owners looking to elevate their businesses. Susan discusses the importance of having a clear vision and strategy, emphasising the unique elements of her mastermind that combine one-on-one coaching with group collaboration. She explains her trademarked stable business formula, which focuses on creating a scalable and saleable business, and highlights the transformative results her clients have achieved. Listeners will gain insights into the significance of clarity in business, the benefits of community support, and how to...

https://hairandbeautycharity.org/

Susan is joined by Sarah Hashim and Natalie Merola from the Hair and Beauty Charity. They discuss the vital work the charity does to support individuals in the hair and beauty industry who are facing financial crises due to circumstances such as illness, domestic abuse, or homelessness. The conversation highlights the charity's commitment to not only assist the affected individuals but also to provide support for their children, ensuring they have a sense of normalcy during tough times. Sarah and Natalie share insights into the application process for assistance, the various...

Susan welcomes Artur Szelwach, affectionately dubbed the "king of sterilisation." The discussion delves into the critical yet often overlooked topic of sterilisation in the beauty industry. Arta shares his journey into the world of sterilisation, highlighting the importance of hygiene and safety standards in salons. They explore the differences between sterilisation and disinfection, the effectiveness of various sterilisation methods, and the innovative design of the ProClaves, which not only ensures safety but also serves as an aesthetically pleasing feature in salons. The episode emphasises the need for beauty businesses to adopt higher standards of sterilisation to stand out in...

Susan Routledge welcomes Helen Portman Brooks, known as the Beauty Brand Connector. Helen shares her unique journey from beauty therapist to freelance business development manager and trainer, highlighting her passion for connecting smaller brands with industry professionals who need their products. The conversation delves into Helen's early career, her transition into sales, and the importance of community and collaboration within the beauty industry. She emphasises the significance of trusting one's instincts and the value of surrounding oneself with supportive peers. Listeners will gain insights into the evolving landscape of beauty entrepreneurship and the importance of personalised approaches in business...

Susan sits down with Sarah, a resilient entrepreneur and cancer survivor, to discuss her remarkable journey through the beauty industry and her battle with ovarian cancer. Sarah shares her experiences of starting a mobile beauty business at just 19, the challenges she faced during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the life-altering diagnosis that forced her to re-evaluate her priorities. As they delve into the importance of mindset, self-care, and the power of slowing down, Sarah emphasises the significance of listening to one's body and the transformative impact of meditation and visualisation. With a focus on helping others navigate their own health...

Susan welcomes Vicky Hendry, the chair of the British Institute and Association of Electrolysis (BIAE) and owner of the clinic Face Up. They delve into Vicki's extensive career in the beauty industry, exploring her journey from her early days in beauty therapy to her current role in promoting electrolysis, a treatment that has been around for 150 years. Vicki shares her insights on the importance of continuous professional development, the challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the rewarding nature of electrolysis in transforming clients' lives. The conversation highlights the significance of professional bodies in maintaining high standards within the...

Susan welcomes Susanne Webb from the Skin Blemish Removal Clinic, who shares her remarkable journey in the beauty industry. With over 30 years of experience, Susanne discusses her unique approach to business, thriving without social media and relying solely on local magazine advertisements and word-of-mouth referrals. She delves into her passion for advanced cosmetic procedures, emphasising the life-changing impact her work has on clients struggling with skin blemishes. The conversation also touches on the importance of seeking advice, believing in oneself, and the joy of giving back to the community through school visits. Listeners will be inspired by Susanne's dedication...

Susan brings together insightful clips from various guests, highlighting their unique journeys and experiences in the beauty industry. The episode features David Alpert from IIAA, who shares the inspiring story of how he and Tracy built their skincare brand, Environ, from humble beginnings in South Africa to becoming a significant player in the UK market. Vicky Ross discusses the importance of mindset and the impact of stress on our lives, while Jaxon Feeley offers a powerful perspective on navigating transitions and vulnerability, particularly in challenging environments. Nergish Wadia Austin emphasises the significance of high standards in the beauty industry...

In this special anniversary episode of Beauty Business Matters, Susan reflects on a year filled with inspiring stories and valuable insights from industry experts. The episode features highlights from interviews with notable guests such as Arif Isikgun, who shares his transformative journey in the beauty industry, and Josh Yardley, whose first client was Princess Diana. Listeners will also hear from Pauls Clipsham about the resilience of salon owners during the pandemic, and Mark Maloney discusses the evolution of Professional Beauty. The episode culminates with a look back at the very first guest, Ronan Percival from Phorest Software, who emphasises...

Susan welcomes AI strategist Marnie Wills, an expert in the field of artificial intelligence and its applications in business. Marnie shares her inspiring journey from being an international athlete to becoming a successful entrepreneur and AI strategist. The conversation delves into the transformative power of AI, discussing practical ways to leverage AI tools like ChatGPT and Jasper for business growth and efficiency. Marnie emphasises the importance of using AI as a collaborative partner rather than a mere tool, encouraging listeners to create personalised AI systems that enhance their productivity. With actionable tips and insights, this episode is a must-listen...

Susan welcomes Natalie Jackson, the 2025 Professional Beauty Electrologist of the Year at NJ Skin Clinic. Natalie shares her inspiring journey into the world of electrolysis, detailing her initial reluctance towards the discipline during her training in beauty therapy, which began in 1989. As she recounts her experiences, Natalie highlights the transformative power of advanced cosmetic procedures and the profound impact they can have on clients' self-esteem. The conversation delves into the evolution of her career, from working in a salon to establishing her own business, and the challenges she faced along the way, including balancing motherhood with her professional aspirations...

DESCRIPTION Susan welcomes the incredibly special guest James Knight, the founder of IMA, a universal colour-based language designed to help people connect and understand one another better. Celebrating 50 years since its founding, James shares the fascinating origin story of iMA, which grew from his time at the Dale Carnegie organization and his desire to effectively "look at things from the other person's point of view". He breaks down the four IMA High Colours (Blue, Green, Red, and Yellow) and how identifying a person's core colour is the key to their systematic comfort zone, influencing their thinking, decisions, emotions, and...

Susan welcomes Maria Rylett-Byrd, a renowned corneotherapy consultant, to discuss the fascinating world of corneotherapy and its significance in skin health. Maria explains that corneotherapy focuses on preserving the epidermis and its function, emphasizing the importance of protecting the skin barrier. She shares her journey from traditional beauty therapy to specializing in skin health, highlighting the evolution of the industry and the need for a holistic approach to skincare. The conversation delves into the origins of corneotherapy, its scientific foundations, and the role of education in empowering therapists to make informed decisions for their clients. Maria also discusses her...

Susan sits down with Stephanie Podmore, the owner of Escape Beauty and Skin, to explore her unique journey into entrepreneurship. Stephanie shares her transition from aspiring sports professional to successful salon owner, detailing the challenges she faced, including navigating motherhood and the impact of COVID-19 on her business. The conversation delves into the importance of understanding financials, nurturing client relationships, and fostering a supportive team environment. Stephanie emphasises the significance of involving her staff in decision-making and how this approach has led to a thriving business culture. With insights on personal growth and resilience, this episode is a testament...

Susan welcomes Nikki Madani, the founder of Hypo21, a revolutionary skincare product that has garnered acclaim across the beauty industry. Nikki shares her unique journey from a successful career in dentistry to creating a product that addresses the need for effective aftercare in aesthetic treatments. With a background in dental nursing and a passion for entrepreneurship, Nikki discusses the science behind Hypo21, which utilizes hypochlorous acid, a natural compound produced by our own bodies, to promote healing and protect the skin. The conversation delves into the extensive research and development process that led to the creation of Hypo21, its...

Susan interviews Rebecca Elsden, the first author featured since the release of the bestselling book "Beauty and the Best 3." Rebecca shares her inspiring journey in the beauty industry, starting from her childhood passion for beauty to overcoming challenges in her career, including the impact of the pandemic on her business. She discusses her transition from working in salons to establishing her own successful clinic, ReSkin, and emphasises the importance of being proud of one's achievements. The conversation highlights the significance of social media in building a brand, the value of continuous learning, and the drive to push beyond comfort...

Susan welcomes brand and vision expert Jojo Smith from CreativSAS. The conversation dives deep into the critical distinction between "brand" and "branding," emphasising that true branding goes beyond visuals to encompass values, personality, and emotional connection. Jojo shares her inspiring backstory, detailing her journey from the corporate world to becoming a successful entrepreneur, and highlights the importance of self-awareness and authenticity in building a lasting brand. The episode also explores how businesses can create a sense of belonging for their teams and clients, ultimately leading to a more sustainable and impactful brand legacy. With a mix of personal anecdotes...

Susan welcomes her dear friend Jo Simpson, a financial expert and founder of the Financial Growth Academy. Jo shares her unexpected journey into the world of finance, emphasising the importance of understanding money as a tool for personal wealth generation. The conversation delves into Jo's experiences in the beauty and fashion industries, her approach to bookkeeping, and the significance of building a supportive team. They discuss the challenges faced by beauty business owners, including pricing strategies and the importance of selling products effectively. Jo also highlights her commitment to creating a safe space for clients to ask questions without...