Explore every episode of the podcast Level Up with Lacey
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| What Nobody Tells You About Closing Day and Letting Go | The Truth About Selling My Salon, Part 4 | 08 oct. 2026 | 00:25:44 | |
I thought I was prepared to sell my salon. I prepared the documents. I negotiated the agreement. I transferred the accounts. I made the lists. I handled ALL the things. But I never prepared my heart for what it would feel like when Salon Lace was officially no longer mine. In Part 4 and the FINAL episode of The Truth About Selling My Salon, Iām taking you into the part of this process that no contract, checklist, or Letter of Intent could have prepared me for. Iām sharing what closing day actually looked like, what happened when I sat alone in the bank parking lot holding the check from the sale of the business I spent 13 years building, and why I completely fell apart. Weāre also talking about transitioning the team, clients, accounts, and responsibilities, creating boundaries after the sale, and one of the biggest questions I had to face: Who am I if Iām no longer a salon owner? This episode is raw, emotional, and probably one of the most personal Iāve ever shared. Because you can KNOW you made the right decision and still grieve what youāre leaving behind. Grief does not automatically mean regret. Sometimes grief simply means it mattered. š¤ And as this chapter closes, Iām realizing something BIG: Salon Lace may no longer belong to me, but the mission it gave me is still very much alive. š§ CATCH UP ON THE TRUTH ABOUT SELLING MY SALON SERIES! Missed an episode? You're going to want to hear the WHOLE story! From making the decision to sell Salon Lace to finding the right buyer, I'm sharing the good, the hard, and everything nobody talks about when selling a salon. š¤ Part 1: The Truth About Selling My Salon š¤ Part 2: The Truth About Selling My Salon š¤ Part 3: Finding the Right Buyer Whether you're thinking about selling your salon someday or you're just here for the behind-the-scenes tea, trust me, you don't want to miss a single part! šš¼ Download my How to Sell Your Salon Guide for the checklists, templates, questions, and lessons I wish I had when I started this process. šš¼ Download the How To Sell Your Salon Guide Here!! Thank you for being here through all four parts of this story. Now itās time for the next chapter. ā¤ļø | |||
| How Facebook Sold My Salon and How I Chose the Right Buyer | The Truth About Selling My Salon, Part 3 | 05 oct. 2026 | 00:35:32 | |
Nine months. Thatās how long it took me to finally get brave enough to publicly say that Salon Lace was FOR SALE. And wouldnāt you freaking know itā¦ the Facebook post I was TERRIFIED to publish is ultimately what sold my salon. š¤Æ In Part 3 of The Truth About Selling My Salon, Iām taking you behind the scenes of actually finding the right buyer. Weāre talking about why I chose not to use a broker, the fear that kept me from publicly listing the salon, why I turned down THREE offers, how I screened potential buyers, and how freaking Facebook Marketplace connected me with the woman who ultimately bought Salon Lace. Iām also breaking down the Letter of Intent, earnest money, due diligence, addendums, and one of the BIGGEST lessons I learned through this entire process: PUT. IT. IN. WRITING. šš¼ This episode is about so much more than selling a salon. Itās about trusting your gut, letting go of what other people might think, and having enough courage to wait for the right YES. Sometimes the opportunity youāve been praying for is sitting on the other side of the thing youāre most afraid to do. ā¤ļø Havenāt listened to the first two parts of the series yet? Catch up here: š§ Part 1: The Truth About Selling My Salon š§ Part 2: The Truth About Selling My Salon Thinking about selling your salon someday? Download my FREE How to Sell Your Salon Guide below. It includes the SDE formula I used, financial + asset checklists, questions to ask potential buyers, my exact Salon Interest Form template, a Business Account Transition Guide, and MORE! šš¼ Download the How to Sell Your Salon Guide And make sure youāre subscribed because next week weāre wrapping up this series with Part 4: What Nobody Tells You About Closing Day and Letting Go. | |||
| How I Prepared, Valued, and Positioned My Salon to Sell | The Truth About Selling My Salon, Part 2 | 01 oct. 2026 | 00:41:09 | |
When you think about selling a salon, you probably think about the obvious thingsā¦ chairs, mirrors, shampoo bowls, equipment, and inventory. But after 13 years of building Salon Lace, I quickly realized the REAL value of my business went way beyond the things you could physically see. In Part 2 of The Truth About Selling My Salon, Iām taking you behind the scenes of exactly how I prepared, valued, and positioned Salon Lace to sell. Weāre talking about: āØ How I determined if my salon was actually ready to sell And let me tell youā¦ there were SO many things I didnāt know before going through this myself!!! If selling your salon is something youāre considering now, five years from now, or maybe NEVER... this episode will help you look at your business completely differently. š§ Havenāt listened to Part 1 yet? Start there first! Listen to Part 1: The Truth About Selling My Salon FREE HOW TO SELL YOUR SALON GUIDE!!! I created a FREE step-by-step guide to go along with this entire series... including the Is Your Salon Ready to Sell? scorecard, SDE formula, financial + asset checklists, questions to ask potential buyers, my exact Salon Interest Form template, Business Account Transition Guide, and some of the biggest lessons I learned along the way. Whether you ever sell or not, building a salon that can operate without you gives you OPTIONSā¦ and we LOVEEEEE options!!!! šš¼ Download the FREE How to Sell Your Salon Guide And make sure youāre following the podcast because Part 3: How Facebook Sold My Salon + How I Chose the Right Buyer is NEXTā¦ and you do NOT want to miss this one!!! š | |||
| Why I Sold My Salon After 13 Years | The Truth About Selling My Salon, Part 1 | 28 sept. 2026 | 00:29:26 | |
Four years before I sold my salon, I sat at my kitchen counter and said the words out loud for the very first timeā¦ āI think Iām ready to sell the salon.ā And hereās the part most people donāt know: Salon Lace wasnāt failing. It was THRIVING. Back in January, I released an episode called āIām Selling My Salonā when I first told you guys I was officially in the process of selling. At the time, I knew WHY I was ready... but I had no idea how the story would end. š§ Havenāt listened to that episode yet? Go back and listen here It will give you the full backstory and let you hear exactly where my head and heart were at before I knew who would buy the salon, what the sale would look like, or everything that was about to happen. And nowā¦ the papers are signed, the salon has a new owner and a new name, and I can FINALLY tell you the entire story!!! In Part 1 of The Truth About Selling My Salon, Iām taking you behind the scenes of WHY I made the decision to sell the business I spent 13 years building. Weāre talking about stepping away from behind the chair, realizing I had become a bottleneck in my own business, separating my identity from being a salon owner, navigating everyone elseās opinions, and the question that ultimately changed everything for me: āCould I rebuild Salon Lace?ā Absolutely. This decision wasnāt made overnight. It took FOUR YEARS. And if youāve ever wondered whether youāre ready for your next chapter... or felt guilty for wanting something different even when what you have is GOODāthis episode is for you. š§ Hit play for Part 1 of The Truth About Selling My Salon. FREE GUIDE: How to Sell Your Salon šš¼ Download it here: https://lg-education.kit.com/ec87eb1264 And make sure youāre following the podcast because Part 2: How I Prepared, Valued & Positioned My Salon to Sell is coming next!!! | |||
| I Took 146 Days Off Work - And It Changed Everything | 21 sept. 2026 | 00:25:50 | |
IāM BACK!!!! šļø And you guysā¦ I have SO much to tell you. This summer, I did something I never expected to do... I took 146 days off from my normal work schedule. What started with a childcare situation completely changing turned into one of the best decisions Iāve ever made. I spent the summer with my kids, stepped away from constantly creating something new, and learned A LOT about what it actually looks like to build a business that supports your lifeānot a life that revolves around your business. In this episode, Iām sharing how LG Education continued running while I stepped back, why repurposing content was a GAME CHANGER, what this summer taught me about motherhood and business, and why Iāve officially decided Iāll never work another summer the way I used to. And maybe the craziest part? Stepping away didnāt make me lose momentum. I came back more rested, creative, inspired, and excited about whatās next than I have felt in a LONG time. If youāre a salon owner, business owner, or working mom who feels like everything depends on YOU, this episode is for you. ā¤ļø āØ Join my weekly newsletter for a little behind-the-scenes peek into my real life every Friday: https://lg-education.kit.com/newsletter And if you know another salon owner or working mom who needs this reminder, send her this episode. Sometimes stepping back isnāt falling behindāitās making room for what matters most. | |||
| The Time Management Episode Every Salon Owner Needsā¦ Especially If Youāre Behind the Chair | 03 aoĆ»t 2026 | 00:38:39 | |
Running a salon while still taking clients? Whewā¦ it's A LOT. Between answering DMs, managing your team, placing color orders, handling client schedules, folding towels, and somehow remembering to eat lunchā¦ it's no wonder your brain feels like it has 462 tabs open. In this episode, I'm sharing the exact time management systems, habits, and boundaries that completely changed the way I run my businessā¦ and honestly, my life. These are the strategies that helped me stop feeling reactive, protect my time, and create more freedom without stepping away from the chair. In this episode, we'll cover: āØ Why your time management is directly connected to your salon's success āØ The mindset shift that changed everything for me (and my family) āØ The 3 non-negotiables I live by every single day āØ How to build your Ideal Week without chasing perfection āØ Why the Daily Big 3 will help you stop feeling overwhelmed āØ My Workday Startup & Shutdown Rituals for more focus and less stress āØ Simple productivity hacks that save hours every single week Resources Mentioned: š Full Focus Planner š Atomic Habits š± ClickUp ā²ļø Digital Timer Remember... how you use your hours determines the success of your business. The salon owners who learn to manage their time aren't just building profitable businessesā¦ they're building lives they actually get to enjoy. It's time to stop surviving your schedule and start creating one that works for YOU. š | |||
| CULTURE - How to create a culture by design, not by default | 13 juil. 2026 | 00:20:39 | |
Let me tell you something... your salon culture is EVERYTHING when it comes to growing a strong, loyal, and high-performing team. It's what keeps your stylists engaged, motivated, and OBSESSED with being a part of your business. And guess what? YOU get to decide what your culture looks and feels like! In this episode, I'm pulling back the curtain on:Ā ā What culture REALLY means and why it's the backbone of your businessĀ ā How my own culture was a MESS in 2018/2019 and the hard lessons I learned ā Proven strategies to make work FUN, engaging, and a place your team LOVES to beĀ ā The biggest mistakes salon owners make with culture (and how to fix them!) Culture doesn't happen by accidentāit happens by DESIGN! Listen in now, and let's design a culture that fuels your success! Suggest podcast topics ā¤µļø https://forms.gle/AzRucZytSzStYy1aA | |||
| My biggest fear: Hiring an Assistant and they don't work out | 06 juil. 2026 | 00:18:36 | |
What's your biggest fear about hiring an assistant? For most salon owners, it isn't finding someone... it's investing time, money, and energy into training them only to have them leave. In this episode, I'm sharing the mindset shift that completely changed the way I look at hiring and growing a team. We talk about why fear keeps so many salon owners stuck, why courage comes before confidence, and how to stop letting the "what ifs" hold you back from building the business you actually want. If hiring has been on your mind, this episode is one you don't want to miss. āØ The biggest hiring fear salon owners face āØ Why fear is keeping you stuck āØ How to stop taking turnover personally āØ Why growing a team creates more freedom and opportunity āØ The mindset shift that changed everything for me If this episode encouraged you, be sure to share it with another salon owner who needs to hear it!! | |||
| Should you pay for your Assistants Education/Certifications? Yay or Nah? | 29 juin 2026 | 00:21:59 | |
Grab your FREE LG Education Tracker here ā¤µļø https://lg-education.kit.com/79e22eb54f One of the questions I get asked all the time isā¦ "Should I pay for my assistant's education and certifications?" In this episode, we're diving into one of the biggest debates in the salon industry. Should salon owners cover the cost of extension certifications, education, and training? Or should assistants be responsible for investing in their own careers? I'm sharing exactly how we've approached this in our salon, why I believe ownership matters, and how you can support your assistants without taking on the entire financial responsibility. āØ Should You Pay for Extension Certifications? Why my answer is usually noāand why learning to invest in themselves is one of the greatest lessons you can teach an assistant. āØ The 90-Day Reimbursement Strategy A simple system that rewards commitment while protecting your business and encouraging long-term growth. āØ Your Apprenticeship Is Already an Education Your assistants are learning behind the chair every single day. Hands-on experience, mentorship, and monthly education are already a huge investment in their future. āØ Using Retail Commission to Fund Education Offering retail commission toward classes can be a great incentiveābut make sure you have clear expectations if someone leaves your team. āØ People Value What They Invest In When assistants contribute to their own education, they're more committed, more engaged, and more likely to take their growth seriously. āØ Skills Matter More Than Certificates A certification doesn't automatically make someone a great stylist. Consistent practice, coaching, and experience are what truly build confidence and mastery. āØ Lead with GenerosityāBut Be Wise Supporting your team doesn't always mean paying for everything. Learn how to create a culture of generosity while also setting healthy business boundaries. If you've ever struggled with deciding what you should (or shouldn't) pay for when it comes to assistant education, this episode is for you. Have a podcast topic you'd love us to cover? ā¤µļø https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfAiPd5bzNmF8f2WyxCWX9s_AGUMvbVrYLs-2ArE1XxsY7lKA/viewform?usp=headerā | |||
| The Power of Daily Rituals with Jess at Whitefox Styling | 22 juin 2026 | 00:59:19 | |
If you've ever told yourself, "I'll start Monday," "I just need more motivation," or "I can't seem to stay consistent," this episode is for you. This week on The Level Up with Lacey Podcast, I'm joined by the very first repeat guest in podcast history, Jess from White Fox Styling! š We're diving into the daily rituals, habits, and routines that have completely transformed not only our businesses, but our lives. From morning routines and Sunday prep to nutrition, sleep, discipline, and personal development, we're talking about the small things that create BIG results over time. In this episode, we discuss: āØ Why daily rituals can change your life āØ The truth about motivation vs. discipline āØ Morning and evening routines that set you up for success āØ Why protein, sleep, and movement matter more than you think āØ How leaders can coach by example āØ The power of personal development for salon owners and teams āØ Getting back on track when life happens āØ Breaking free from the all-or-nothing mindset āØ Creating accountability without micromanaging āØ Why investing in yourself is always worth it If you've been feeling stuck, overwhelmed, inconsistent, or simply ready for your next level of growth, this conversation will give you practical takeaways you can start implementing immediately. Remember: Success isn't built in one giant moment. It's built in the small habits you repeat every single day. | |||
| My Employees are getting casual and sloppy on dress codeā¦ HELP!!!!! | 08 juin 2026 | 00:25:31 | |
If your salon team has been showing up a little too casual lately, youāre not imagining itā¦ and youāre definitely not alone! In this episode, we're getting real about that moment every salon owner dreads: when your once-polished, on-brand team starts looking more āSunday Target runā than ā$100/hour luxury service.ā But donāt worryā¦ weāre not here to shame anyone or stir up drama. Weāre here to fix it with love, leadership, and zero nagging. If you've ever looked around your salon and thought, "How do I address this without hurting feelings?" this episode is for you. Ā In this episode, you'll learn: āØ How to have dress code conversations without making them uncomfortable āØ Why seasonal reminders matter more than one-time policies āØ How visual examples can eliminate confusion āØ A simple self-assessment exercise your team can use āØ Ways to create a culture where presentation and professionalism matter āØ The importance of hygiene, effort, and showing up as the professional you are Because at the end of the day... People buy beauty from people who look like they believe in beauty. Grab our Salon lace. Dress code here ā¤µļø Click the link below to give me any podcast recommendations that YOU want to hear!! Grab your notebook and let's dive in! šļøāØ | |||
| The Truth About Risk, Criticism, and Success | 01 juin 2026 | 00:19:59 | |
Let's have a real conversation today... If you've ever felt stuck, second-guessed yourself, worried about what other people might think, or hesitated to make a big move in your business because it felt scary AF... this episode is for you. I'm sharing some personal stories, lessons I've learned through building my business, and the reality of what it takes to grow. Because the truth is, success isn't reserved for the lucky few. It's available to the people willing to take calculated risks, bet on themselves, and keep moving forward even when fear shows up. In this episode, we'll chat about: - Why building a strong team can completely change your business and your life - The relationship between risk and reward - How to handle criticism without letting it derail you - Why staying busy and focused matters when self-doubt creeps in - The importance of having a strong support system around you - How to stop letting fear make decisions for your future At the end of the day, everything you've been wanting the growth, the freedom, the success, the impactā¦ lives on the other side of fear. So if you've been waiting for a sign to go all in on yourself... this is it. | |||
| Your Stylists Arenāt Postingā¦ Hereās the REAL Problem | 25 mai 2026 | 00:25:39 | |
We are doing something a little new and exciting this summer!! This episode is part of our Summer Replay Series. āļø Where weāre bringing back some of the most downloaded, most shared, and most impactful episodes in The Level Up with Lacey Podcast history. These are the conversations that sparked huge breakthroughs, major mindset shifts, and BIG lightbulb moments for salon owners everywhereā¦ and this one is absolutely worth revisiting. Your stylists want full booksā¦ but theyāre refusing to market themselvesā¦Ā If youāre constantly reminding your commission team to post on social media, share openings, take photos, make reels, or simply show up onlineā¦ this episode is for YOU. Because hereās the truth: In 2026, social media is no longer optional for hairstylists. Itās part of the job. In this episode, weāre talking about: āØ What to do when stylists say they āhate social mediaā āØ How to stop feeling like you have to babysit grown adults āØ The difference between being overwhelmed vs. unwilling āØ Why unclear expectations create frustrated salon owners āØ How to create a culture where marketing is NORMAL āØ The hard conversation: are they actually the right fit for your team? Weāre also unpacking the constant excuses: āI donāt know what to post.ā āI donāt like being on camera.ā āI donāt want to feel salesy.ā Are those valid struggles? Sometimes. But are they also keeping stylists broke and dependent Absolutely. This episode is a little ranty, a little tough love, and VERY necessary for salon owners trying to build a team of stylists who actually take ownership of their growth. Because building your clientele is part of being a professional stylist now. Period. š„ Grab Laceyās Social Strategies, Social Commitment + Social Batch Training: https://lg-education.kit.com/c1d5ad7811 š§ Listen to Slow Growing Assistants: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/slow-growing-assistants/id1680369235?i=1000619121116 š¤ Join Coach Aniās Content Coven: https://clients.contentcovenedu.com/courses/offers/8865d193-657e-42c6-bb7a-7f678c378401 | |||
| How to Market a Brand-New Stylist Without Losing Clients Trust | 11 mai 2026 | 00:19:37 | |
Letās talk about one of the BIGGEST fears salon owners have when growing a teamā¦ Because the truth isā¦ most salon owners are terrified that the second a guest hears the word ānewā, theyāll immediately assume inexperienced, low quality, or risky. But hereās the reality: In this episode, Iām breaking down exactly how to confidently launch a new talent stylist, how your front desk should position them, how to market them online, and how to fill their books FASTā¦ without making them sound ācheapā or inexperienced. Weāre talking about: And one of the biggest reminders in this episode:New talent does NOT mean low value. If your salon has structure, training, and consistency behind the scenesā¦ your guests will feel that. This episode is packed with practical scripts, positioning strategies, and mindset shifts that will help you stop apologizing for your new stylists and start confidently building future demand inside your salon. š§ Listen now if: Ultimate Assistant Guide: Podcast Recommendations: | |||
| Is Your Assistant Slow AF? Letās Talk Timing, Reps, and Reality | 20 avr. 2026 | 00:11:46 | |
This one might hit a nerveā¦ but weāre saying it anyway. Assistants are SLOW in the beginning. Thatās normal. Thatās expected. Thatās part of the process. But hereās where things start to go sidewaysā¦They stay slowāand you start getting frustratedāwithout ever giving them a clear target to work toward. In this episode, Iām breaking down the difference between normal beginner slowness and a full-blown training gapā¦ and what you need to fix ASAP if you want your assistants to actually improve. Weāre talking about:
Because hereās the truthā¦ If you donāt have timing standards, structure, or urgency built into your trainingā¦ you donāt have a āslow assistantā problemā And weāre fixing that today. Grab the tools I mentioned:Timing Goals Sheet: https://canva.link/32anwhjqghy3u3vUltimate Assistant Guide: https://lg-education.mykajabi.com/ultimateassistantguide Got something you want me to cover on the podcast? Send it my way... Iām all ears. | |||
| The 3 Things Iād Focus on If I Had to Rebuild My Salon Today | 13 avr. 2026 | 00:14:55 | |
If I had to rebuild my salon from the ground upā¦ I wouldnāt do ten things differently. Iād do THREE. Thatās it. Because when I look back, most of the struggles I went through werenāt randomā¦ they were the result of what I wasnāt doing yet. In this episode, Iām breaking down the three things that would have changed everything for me soonerāand will for you too. Weāre talking about:
This episode is simple, but powerful. Because these three things build on each other: The right people. The right structure. The right direction. If youāre feeling overworked, doing everything yourself, and stuck wondering where to even startā¦ this is for you. Pick ONE thing from this episode and start there. Thatās how everything begins to change. And if that one thing is systemsā¦ My Ultimate Assistant Guide is exactly what I wish I had when I was building this from scratch. It walks you through your training, onboarding, expectations... everything. Right now itās $200 off (just $99 with code 2026) ā Click Here! If this episode hit for you, send it to another salon owner who needs to hear it. And if you have a topic you want me to cover next, thereās a link below to submit it... I read every single one! Have Something You Want to Hear on the Podcast Nothing changes if nothing changes. So pick oneā¦ and just start. | |||
| Are You Afraid of What People Think? Because Same. | 30 mars 2026 | 00:23:57 | |
Letās be real for a secondā¦ How many decisions are you NOT making right now because of what someone might think? Raising your prices. Changing your schedule. Having that hard conversation. Starting something new. Insteadā¦ you overthink it. Sit on it. Push it off. Iām calling this out because Iāve caught myself doing the SAME thing lately. And I know Iām not the only one. So today, weāre talking about the fear of what people think and how it might be quietly running your business behind the scenes. Not to tell you to stop caringā¦ because thatās not realistic. But to make sure itās not the reason you stay stuck or keep playing small. Because hereās the truth: You can either build a business that makes sense to everyone elseā¦ or one that actually moves you forward. Most of the time, you donāt get both. This fear tends to show up in three big areas... your clients, your team, and people in the industry. With clientsā¦ youāre undercharging, overworking, and second-guessing everything.Youāre scared to raise prices, set boundaries, or change your schedule because of one thought: āWhat will they think?ā But the goal isnāt to keep everyone. The goal is to build something strong enough that the right people stay. And they will. With your teamā¦ you avoid being a leader because you donāt want to be the bad guy. You hold back on hard conversations, policy changes, or stepping into your next level because youāre worried about how it looks. But leadership isnāt about being liked. The cost of being liked by everyone is usually being true to no one... especially yourself. And then thereās industry and peer fearā¦The one that makes you feel like youāre constantly being watched. Posting. Sharing. Growing. Pivoting. Expanding. āWhat if people judge me?ā āWhat if this doesnāt work and everyone sees?ā Let me save you the spiral: People WILL have opinions. People WILL misunderstand you. People WILL talk. And none of that means anything. Seriously. So hereās what I need you to doā Make the decision. Stop over-explaining. And let people think whatever they want without making it mean something about you. Because it doesnāt. If youāve been sitting on somethingā¦ thinking about somethingā¦ feeling that pull to make a moveā The time is now. So make the move. Because if youāre waiting for everyone to understand your decisionsā¦ or approve of themā¦ Youāre going to stay exactly where you are. And I know thatās not what you want. Weāve got BIG dreams to chase. Their opinion doesnāt pay your billsā¦ but your decisions do. And the louder their opinions getā¦ The more important it is that you trust your own. Press Play! š§ Podcast Ideas for Lacey: Click Here! | |||
| Money Monday #4: The Only 3 Numbers You Need to Track | 23 mars 2026 | 00:18:14 | |
The one-hour weekly habit that changed everything in my business. Alrightā¦ we made it to the FINAL Money Monday š And Iām not letting you leave this series without something you can actually implement immediately. Iām giving you my exact monthly profit margin spreadsheet ā the same one I use in my businessā¦ every single month. And hereās the best partā¦ I only track THREE numbers. Simplicity Wins. Always. I know so many salon owners think they need complicated systemsā¦P&Ls, dashboards, all the reportsā¦ But the truth? You donāt need more complexityā¦ you need simplicity + consistency. The Only 3 Numbers That Matter Every month, I track:
Thatās it. Thatās the system. Because hereās the realityā¦ I donāt care how big your revenue is if youāre barely keeping anything. You can do $500Kā¦ $700Kā¦ even $1Mā¦ But if youāre only keeping a tiny percentage? We have a problem. Letās Talk Profit (for real) Thereās no magic number. But what DOES matter?
If youāre at 3% right nowā¦ amazing. Start there. Letās move to 5% ā 8% ā 10%ā¦ and keep going. Thatās how you win. And for context ā a healthy salon typically sits around 8ā15% profit margin. Most are nowhere near thatā¦ and thatās exactly why this matters. Your New Habit This is your move:
No perfection required. Just consistency. Put it in your calendar right now: The 5th of every month = Track Your Profit. Final Thoughts You donāt need more clients. You donāt need more time. You donāt need more information. You need to start paying attention to your money. Keep it simple. Stay consistent. And make it happen. Revenue is vanity. Profit is sanity. And if you donāt know your profitā¦ you donāt know your business. š¬ I Want to Hear From You If you loved this Money Monday series, I would LOVE to hear what you want next. Send me your ideas for future episodes:
Your support means everythingā¦ and it helps me keep creating content that actually moves your business forward š¤ Podcast Ideas: Click Here! Profit Margin Spreadsheet: Click Here! | |||
| Money Monday #3: Letās Talk About Credit Cards | 16 mars 2026 | 00:14:38 | |
Credit cards are either one of the most powerful tools in your businessā¦ or the fastest way to completely wreck your finances. And the truth isā¦ most salon owners fall into one of two categories. They either avoid credit cards completelyā¦ or they use them with absolutely no system at all. Inside todayās Money Monday, Iām pulling back the curtain on exactly how I use credit cards inside my businesses, why theyāve become such a powerful financial tool for me, and the simple rules that keep them from ever turning into a financial disaster. Because hereās the truthā¦ Credit cards donāt create financial chaos ā a lack of discipline does. When used intentionally, credit cards can actually work for your business, not against it. From points to travel perks, Iām sharing how I run my normal business expenses through my cards and how that strategy has earned me free flights and even a Southwest companion pass. But thereās a catchā¦ and itās a BIG one. I also share the five non-negotiable rules I follow with credit cards and the weekly Money Monday habit that keeps everything under control. In this episode weāre talking about: ā¢ Why I choose to use credit cards in my businesses ā¢ How I structure my cards across multiple businesses ā¢ The 5 rules I follow with credit cards (no exceptions) ā¢ The biggest credit card mistakes salon owners make ā¢ Why using cards to cover payroll or cash flow is a major red flag If youāre ready to stop feeling anxious every time you check your bank account and start running your business with more clarity and control, this episode is for you. And next week inside Money Monday, weāre going even deeper into the 3-number spreadsheet I use to track revenue, expenses, and profit. Trust meā¦ youāre going to want to stick around for that one! š° | |||
| Money Monday #2: What I Do With Every Dollar That Hits My Bank Account | 09 mars 2026 | 00:27:44 | |
Welcome back to Money Monday ā the series where we talk about the numbers, habits, and financial systems that most salon owners avoidā¦ but desperately need to understand. In this episode, Iām walking you through exactly what I do with every single dollar that hits my business bank account ā the weekly system that completely changed the way I run my salon. Quick disclaimer before we dive in: Iām not a Profit First coach and Iām definitely not a financial advisor. Iām simply a salon owner who implemented the Profit First system by Mike Michalowicz, and it has completely transformed the way I manage money inside my business. Inside this episode I break down: š° The Profit First philosophy and why most entrepreneurs operate with a āleftover mentalityā š° Why the system uses multiple bank accounts (and why this simple trick works with your brain) š° The 5 core bank accounts every business should have š° How separating your money creates instant clarity and discipline š° The difference between CAPS (Current Allocation Percentages) and TAPS (Target Allocation Percentages) š° My Money Monday weekly habit where I allocate every dollar that comes into my business Instead of the traditional accounting formula: Revenue ā Expenses = Profit Profit First flips it to: Revenue ā Profit = Expenses In other wordsā¦ profit is not whatās left over. Profit comes first. This system didnāt magically make my business profitable. What it did do was force me to look at my numbers every single week and make smarter, data-based decisions. And when you remove your profit first, something interesting happensā¦Youāre forced to run a smarter, leaner, and more efficient business. Profit First doesnāt make your business profitable. It reveals whether your business actually is profitable. If youāre loving the Money Monday series, weāre just getting started. Over the next few weeks weāre diving deeper into the financial habits and systems that will help you stop feeling stressed when you check your bank account and start running a truly profitable salon. Hit play š§ and learn what to do with every dollar that hits your business! Click here to access the Podcast Recommendations Form and let me know things you would like to learn! | |||
| Money Monday #1: Youāre Busyā¦ But Are You Profitable? | 02 mars 2026 | 00:20:09 | |
Being fully booked does NOT mean youāre profitable ā and some of the busiest salon owners I know are the most financially stressed. In our very first Money Monday, weāre talking about the numbers and habits salon owners avoid but absolutely need if they want real financial freedom. This episode is all about the one-hour weekly habit that completely changed how I run my business and how I feel about my money. What We Are Talking About: Revenue vs. Profit ā why big revenue can still leave you feeling broke. Why being fully booked means nothing if your pricing, productivity, and payroll arenāt aligned. My exact Monday Money Ritual that keeps me calm, clear, and in control. The simple 3 numbers I track monthly to make confident business decisions. Why avoiding your numbers is the fastest way to stay stuck. The Truth Bomb: Busy is not a strategy. Profit margin is. When you start looking at your numbers weekly instead of emotionally reacting to your bank account, everything shifts ā your confidence, your clarity, and your leadership. Schedule a weekly money date with yourself. That one habit alone can stop financial leaks, reduce anxiety, and help you actually keep the money youāre working so hard to make. This is just Week One of the Money Monday Series, and weāre only getting started. If youāre ready to stop feeling stressed every time you open up your banking app and start feeling powerful instead ā youāre in the right place. Hit play! šļø Resource Mentioned: | |||
| How to Deal with Challenging Employees | 23 fƩvr. 2026 | 00:20:24 | |
Because letās be honestā¦ Every salon owner has one. Had one. Or is currently avoiding one. š If youāve ever had a team member who: ā Doesnāt listen ā Pushes back on feedback ā Skips meetings ā Gossips ā Drains your energy ā Is wildly talented but slightly (or very) toxic This episode is for you. When you first open a salon, you think leadership is: - Hiring cool people - Training your team - Celebrating wins - Posting team photos And then reality hits. Leadership is actually: ā Hard conversations ā Clear boundaries ā Documentation ā Emotional regulation ā Being okay with not being liked ā And holding it together when you low-key want to scream. In this episode, I break down the 3 REAL reasons someone feels āchallengingā:
And then I walk you through my 5-Step Framework for handling difficult team members with confidence (and without blowing up your culture):
Sometimes leadership means coaching. Sometimes leadership means ābless and release.ā You are not a bad leader because someone challenges you. You become a misaligned leader when you avoid the hard conversation and let it erode your culture. This one is bold. Itās honest. And it might be exactly what you need to hear. Hit play! šļø | |||
| No Time to Train? The Lie You Keep Telling Yourself. | 16 fƩvr. 2026 | 00:15:48 | |
You sayā¦
Sound familiar? š In this episode, Iām lovingly calling you out. Because I get it. I lived it. I built my salon in the āIāll train when things slow downā eraā¦ and guess what? Things never slowed down. Weāre diving into the truth behind the āno timeā excuse and whatās really going on underneath it:
If you keep saying you donāt have the time to trainā¦ What youāre really saying is that staying busy feels safer than slowing down. And thatās the lie. You donāt need more hours. You need to operate with intention and SLOW DOWNā¦ TO SPEED UP. No one is coming to hand you more time. No one is going to clear your schedule. No one is going to build your systems. No one is going to protect your future if you wonāt. At some point, you have to decide that your future matters more than todayās urgency and to-dos. And that decision? Will change your entire life. Hit play! š§ | |||
| Is Your Assistant Lazyā¦ or Are Expectations the Real Issue Here? | 02 fĆ©vr. 2026 | 00:09:41 | |
Ever caught yourself thinking (or saying š¬): āMy assistant is lazy.ā āThey donāt take initiative.ā āIāve told them a hundred times and nothing changes.ā Can we please have an honest conversation. In this episode, Iām breaking down one of the biggest misconceptions in the salon industry and it might be the ONE THING that is keeping you exhausted, frustrated, and stuck doing everything yourself. šš¼ Most assistants are NOT lazyā¦ theyāre lost. When thereās no clear structure, expectations, or path for growth, assistants are left guessing. And guessing looks like hesitation. It looks like waiting. It looks like what we label as ālazy.ā In this episode, we talk about:
If youāre already stretched thin, your body is tired, and you are juggling all your clients and the businessā¦ This episode is for you! Iāll also walk you through exactly why The Assistant University exists, who itās for, and how it helps salon owners just like you:
āØ Enrollment for The Assistant University is officially OPEN ā but not for long. Doors close Friday, February 6th at midnight. If youāre ready to work smarter (not harder), build real structure, and take your time back ! šš¼ Tap the link right here to join us: https://lg-education.mykajabi.com/au I cannot WAIT to see you inside!! | |||
| Iām Selling My Salon | 26 janv. 2026 | 00:19:41 | |
ā¦and this episode might be the most honest one Iāve ever recorded. This was not an overnight decision. This has been four years in the making, and inside this episode Iām sharing the real story behind it. In this episode, I walk you through:
Iām also sharing the emotional moment, sitting at my kitchen counter as a brand new mom, when I said out loud for the first time, āI think I want to sell the salon.ā In a moment that the salon was doing so damn wellā¦ so why did I feel the need and want to sell it? It didnāt make sense. If youāve ever:
This episode is for you!! šš¼ Save your seat right here: Click Here If youāre ready to build a team, work smarter (not harder), and create a salon that doesnāt rely solely on youā¦ this is your next step. šš¼ Tap the link right here to join us inside The Assistant University! This episode is proof of what is possible when you stop waiting, stop playing it safe, and start building something bigger than yourself. I didnāt get here by accident. You can do this too!!! | |||
| What If I Train Them and They Leave? | 19 janv. 2026 | 00:09:51 | |
Before we dive in, I want to personally invite you to my upcoming free live training ā The Co-Stylist Confidence Workshop!! It is BACK and better than ever!! If your goals this year include hiring stylists, working less behind the chair, making more money, and building real systems in your salon, this training is for you! Inside the workshop, Iām teaching:
When you show up live, youāll also get a copy-and-paste Google Sheet with my actual systems from Salon Lace ā plus my social media batching training in the first few minutes. šš¼Save your seat here: Now letās get into todayās episode. I hear this fear from stylists and salon owners constantly: Hereās the truth: Fear kills more dreams than failure ever will. Ask yourself:
There comes a point where you have to use your brain š§ more than your hands. šš¼ And if they leave? Let them. Let your dreams be bigger than your fears. And if this episode is hitting you, Iāll see you inside The Co-Stylist Confidence Workshop. Sign up here: https://lg-education.mykajabi.com/costylistconfidenceworkshop1?utm_source=Podcast&utm_medium=Episode+163 | |||
| This Is Why Youāre Scared to Hire an Assistant (Even Though You Need Help) | 12 janv. 2026 | 00:31:34 | |
If youāre booked out, exhausted, drowning behind-the-chair and trying to keep the salon afloatā¦ yet you keep telling yourself āI need helpāā¦ This episode is for you. Most salon owners arenāt avoiding hiring because they donāt want the support. In this episode, Iām getting real and personal about:
Weāre breaking down fears like:
And Iām not just calling you out ā Iām walking you through:
This episode is part mindset shift, part tough love, and part practical strategy! āØ You can stay comfortable, or you can keep growing. You donāt get both. If youāve been feeling called out just reading thisā¦ Hit play right now! | |||
| How I Track, Upcharge, and Invoice Color for Booth Renters | 06 janv. 2026 | 00:30:36 | |
Color is one of the largest expenses in your salonā¦ and yet most owners are still guessing. š¬ In this episode, Iām breaking down exactly how we track, upcharge, budget, and invoice color for booth renters at Salon Lace. If youāre eyeballing color, ādoing your best,ā or avoiding the numbers altogetherā¦ this oneās for you. Hereās what Iām walking you through:
Iām also sharing real standards, real policies, and real lessons that I learned the hard wayā¦ so you donāt have to! If you donāt track it, you canāt charge for it, and if you canāt charge for it, youāll resent it. š§ Press play if youāre ready to protect your profit, clean up your systems, and finally stop bleeding money through your color bar. Click here if you would like to see an example of one of our Rental Invoices šš¼ Sample Rental Invoices | |||
| How to Live in the Gain Instead of the Gap | 29 dƩc. 2025 | 00:15:32 | |
āØ Final episode of The Level Up with Lacey Podcast for 2025 āØ Iāll be honest, Iām really bad at celebrating how far Iāve come. I move the goalpost fast, judge myself even faster, and usually skip right past the āwowā moment straight into āwhatās next?ā In this final episode of 2025, Iām sharing the mindset shift that completely changed my peace, confidence, and anxiety this year- learning how to live in the gain instead of the gap. Weāre talking about:
Plusā¦ Iām sharing a heartfelt thank you and celebrating what WE built together this year ā and the growth of this podcast honestly blew my mind š¤ If youāve been grinding, growing, building, and still feeling like itās not enough ā this episode is for you. Letās pause. Letās reflect. Letās finish 2025 in the gain. I love you guys. | |||
| The 6 Non-Negotiable Iād Require of My Assistants Going Into 2026 | 22 dĆ©c. 2025 | 00:33:53 | |
If assistants feel frustrating, inconsistent, or exhaustingā¦ this episode is for you. In this episode, Iām breaking down the 6 standards I would absolutely be holding my assistants to in 2026 ā not to be controlling, but to create clarity, structure, and confidence for everyone involved. Weāre talking about:
These arenāt random rules. If something in this episode hits a nerveā¦ good. Thatās usually where the growth is. āØ Free 3-Day Training Invite š
December 28ā30 Want the systems to support these standards? Hit play, take notes, and letās raise the standard going into 2026. | |||
| My Most-Loved Purchases of 2025 | 15 dƩc. 2025 | 00:38:45 | |
Before we dive in, donāt forget, Iām hosting a 3-day mini training on my Instagram Close Friends list called Your 2026 Habit Reset: Because You Canāt Do 2026 with 2025ās Bullshit. Itās happening Dec 28, 29, 30 and everything will live in that little green circle. Now letās get into the purchases that kept me alive, sane, and functioning this year. Every item mentioned is linked below! Productivity + Home + Life Management
Health + Wellness + Fitness
Mom Life + Family
Self-Care + Cozy Girl Era
Business + Personal Growth
Join the 3-Day Close Friends Training Your 2026 Habit Reset: Because You Canāt Do 2026 with 2025ās Bullshit | |||
| Behind the Scenes of My 2026 SMARTER Goals | 10 dƩc. 2025 | 00:40:18 | |
If you want support setting YOUR 2026 SMARTER goals, come join my Close Friends List on Instagram! December 28ā30, Iām teaching a free 3-day mini series: Your 2026 Habit Reset- Because You Canāt Do 2026 with 2025ās Bullshit. Why SMARTER Goals Matter A goal without a plan is just a wish. Achievement Goals = one result. 2026 rule of thumb:ā¢ Max 8 annual goalsā¢ Max 4 habit goals (one per quarter)ā¢ Max 4 professional goals You become what you repeatedly do. Start With the LifeScore Assessment If you donāt know where to begin, take the LifeScore Assessment (linked below). It scores nine areas of your life so you know exactly where to focus heading into the new year. š https://assessments.fullfocus.co/lifescore/ SMARTER Goal Refresher Specific ā¢ Measurable ā¢ Actionable ā¢ Risky ā¢ Time-Bound ā¢ Exciting ā¢ Relevant What Iām Sharing in This Episode In this episode, Iām taking you behind the scenes of:
Want to hear my full 2026 SMARTER Goals? Discipline is choosing what you want most over what you want now.You donāt have to wait for January, you just have to decide. Want help setting your goals? DM CLOSE on Instagram (@lacey_gebo) to join my 3-Day Habit Reset on Close Friends. | |||
| Holiday Bonuses: What to Gift Your Assistants? Whatās Normal, Whatās Smart, and What to Avoid | 01 dĆ©c. 2025 | 00:17:24 | |
Salon ownersā¦ weāre going there today. āWhat the heck do I even get my assistants for the holidays?ā How much is normal? This episode breaks it ALL down- honestly, clearly, and with zero fluff. Inside the episode, we dive into: š„ Why holiday gifts should never become a financial burden And because I love youā¦ hereās a little sneak peek at one of my favorite SMART gift ideas: āØ The Full Focus Planner ā my go-to planner that helps stylists stay organized, intentional, and focused heading into a new year. But thatās just ONE of the ideasā¦ If you want gifting to feel thoughtful, smart, aligned, and stress-freeā¦ š§ Listen now to hear the full list and the mindset shifts that will completely change how you approach holiday bonuses this year. ā https://forms.gle/Vq9JMXrhPrUmesrR8ā Ā Ā | |||
| Gratitude, Growth, and the People Who Shaped Me This Year | 24 nov. 2025 | 00:09:44 | |
As we head into Thanksgiving week, I wanted to slow things downā¦ just a little. This season has a way of making us breathe deeper, notice more, and really reflect on what truly matters. Inside Salon Lace, we call itĀ Gratitude Friday and today, Iām bringing that same energy straight into this episode. In this heartfelt conversation, Iām sharing the things, and people who carried me, challenged me, strengthened me, and shaped me this year. From the moments that brought joy to the moments that nearly broke meā¦ this episode is all about honoring the blessings that matter most. We talk about the relationships that kept me grounded, the support systems that held me up, the growth that surprised me, and the hard seasons that refined me in ways I never expected. This one is honest, vulnerable, and straight from the heart. This episode is a reminder to slow downā¦ to notice whatās right in front of youā¦ and to remember that gratitude isnāt just something weĀ feelĀ itās something weĀ express. If you listen to anything this week, let it be this. Suggest Podcast topics here ā¬ ā https://forms.gle/vAjcHPWjnhEkbQog7ā Ā š§Ā ā ā assistantcourse@lgeducation.onlineā ā š± Text Line: 218-392-9054 š Instagram:Ā ā ā @lacey_geboā | |||
| The Time Management Episode Every Salon Owner Needsā¦ Especially If Youāre Behind the Chair | 17 nov. 2025 | 00:37:59 | |
If youāre juggling a full salon, a booked client schedule, DMs, team drama, color orders, laundry, walk-ins, phone calls, and somehow trying to remember to pee and eat lunchā¦ this episode is going to feel like a deep exhale. I know that feeling of having 462 tabs open in your brain while wondering, āWhy am I so forgetful? Am I getting old? What is happening?ā This episode is the one I wish I had years ago. Iām sharing the exact time management strategies, boundaries, and habits that truly SAVED my sanity and my business while I was still behind the chair. These are the tools that helped me stop drowning in overwhelm and start leading with clarity, intention, and confidence. Why This Episode Matters Time management isnāt just ābeing organized.ā Itās the foundation of:
Inside this episode, I share my personal turning point, the moment I realized my lack of boundaries was costing me more than time. It was costing me memories with my husband and kids. Iāll walk you through how I rebuilt my days, my routines, and my mindset so I could show up fully for my family and my business. What Youāll Learn This episode breaks down the three exact strategies that changed everything for me: 1. My Ideal Week Framework: 2. The Daily Big 3: 3. Work Day Startup & Shutdown Rituals: I also walk through my three non-negotiable boundaries (word-for-word), how we use ClickUp to stay organized, the power of saying āno,ā and the tiny habits that create massive momentum. If Youāre Feeling Scattered, Overwhelmed, or Behindā¦ This episode will help you reset, refocus, and rebuild your time with intention. Youāll walk away with clear action steps you can implement TODAY to feel more organized, more productive, and more in control of your business and life.
Links mentioned in this episode- 1.) Full Focus Planner- https://www.amazon.com/dp/1737211955?linkCode=ssc&tag=onamzlaceygeb-20&creativeASIN=1737211955&asc_item-id=amzn1.ideas.3HX9TWMWKLOJT&ref_=aip_sf_list_spv_ons_mixed_d_asin&th=1Ā 2.) ClickUp- Clickup.comĀ 3.) Aro Box- https://goaro.com/products/aro-boxĀ 4.) Hour Glass Timer- https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08KVR8LFT?linkCode=ssc&tag=onamzlaceygeb-20&creativeASIN=B08KVR8LFT&asc_item-id=amzn1.ideas.1U99BSBP8JEF5&ref_=aip_sf_list_spv_ons_mixed_d_asin&th=1Ā 6.) Atomic Habits-Ā https://www.amazon.com/dp/0735211299?linkCode=ssc&tag=onamzlaceygeb-20&creativeASIN=0735211299&asc_item-id=amzn1.ideas.3HX9TWMWKLOJT&ref_=aip_sf_list_spv_ons_mixed_d_asin Suggest Topics Here šš¼ https://forms.gle/tpgKV1CDexAjJN386 Follow on social- @lacey_gebo | |||
| This One Change Made My Stylists More Accountable Overnight | 10 nov. 2025 | 00:16:59 | |
Do you ever feel like your team meetings last aboutĀ two daysĀ before everyone slips right back into old habits? šš¼āāļø Been there. For years, I poured my heart (and hours) into monthly team meetings- snacks, agendas, motivation, the works, only to leave frustrated and drained. Everyone nodded, smiled, and thenā¦ nothing changed. Until I made one tiny shift that completely transformed how my team communicated, followed through, and took ownership. And let me tell youā¦ accountability skyrocketed. In this episode, Iām walking you through: If youāve been craving a team that takes action without constant reminders , this episode is your roadmap. š Bonus: Iām sharing my exactĀ One-on-One Framework- the same system we use inside my salon. Youāll get the prep form, action plan template, and how my team books their time slots. Grab it here- https://lg-education.kit.com/34c2734255 Suggest podcast topics here šš¼ https://forms.gle/Vq9JMXrhPrUmesrR8Ā | |||
| 5 Things I Quit to Hit My First Million | 03 nov. 2025 | 00:22:41 | |
Four years ago, I made one of the scariest decisions of my life, I walked away from behind the chair. My books were full, the money was great, and from the outside, everything looked perfectā¦ but I was exhausted. I knew deep down that if I wanted to hit big numbers and do big things, I couldnāt keep operating the same way. Sometimes, you have to quit really cool, money-making things to get to where you actually want to be. This weekās episode is a raw, behind-the-scenes look at the five things I quit that helped me hit my first million-dollar year. These shifts didnāt happen overnight, but they changed everything about how I lead, grow, and think as a CEO. Hereās a peek inside: This episode will challenge you to look at what you might be white-knuckling in your own business, the things that feel safe but are actually keeping you stuck. If youāre ready to make more by doing less, this oneās for you. āØ Your permission slip: Quit something on purpose. Because once you do, the coolest opportunities start to open up for you. š§ Listen now and start thinking like the million-dollar CEO youāre becoming. Grab the Ultimate Assistant Guide Here šš¼ https://lg-education.mykajabi.com/ultimateassistantguide Use code 2025 to get $200 off!Ā Suggest Podcast topics here ā¬ | |||
| Your 2026 Planning Session: How to Get Every Date, Goal, and Event on the Calendar Now | 27 oct. 2025 | 00:37:15 | |
This oneās hands-on! Grab your planner, Google Calendar, or wall calendar because weāre mapping outĀ every singleĀ major date, goal, and event for 2026. From one-on-ones and education days to retreats, content days, and (yes!) your own vacations, this episode will help you build the kind of rhythm and structure your team needs to thrive. If itās not on the calendarā¦ itās not happening! Letās plan smarter, lead intentionally, and set your year up for success. In This Episode, Youāll Learn: 1. Why Planning Now Matters 2. How to Organize & Communicate Your Calendar 3. What to Schedule for 2026
4. How to Lead Proactively Mentioned in This Episode:
Your 2026 Action Step : Pour a coffee (or glass of wine š), open your calendar, and block out your entire year. Your future self will thank you. š§Ā ā assistantcourse@lgeducation.onlineā š± Text Line: 218-392-9054 š Instagram:Ā ā @lacey_geboā | |||
| The Brutally Honest Truth About Employees, Assistants, and Everything in Between | 20 oct. 2025 | 00:18:52 | |
Everyone loves the idea of having a teamā¦ until they actually have one. When I hired my first assistant at 23, I thought it would make my life easierā¦ instead, it made me a better leader. It gave my body a break, but not my mind. āNew level, new devil. New opportunities come with new challenges.ā Fantasy vs. Reality We all think once we hire, everything will get easier. But in reality, chaos comes first. You go from working in the business to growing people. Assistants: The Most Misunderstood Role Assistants arenāt āhelp.ā Theyāre our right hand, our Co-Stylists, our future leaders. When you hire out of desperation, you create misalignment not culture. āYou canāt lead people until youāve learned how to train them.ā The Hard Truths Youāll be the bad guy sometimes. Youāll lose sleep. Youāll care more than they do. But every tough moment shapes you into the kind of leader your team deserves. āIf you avoid confrontation to keep the peace, youāll start a war inside yourself.ā Why We Do It Because itās worth it, the lightbulb moments, the growth, the legacy. Leadership stretches you. Itās hard as hell, but itās the most meaningful work youāll ever do.Ā Ready to start training your first assistant the right way? Ā Grab our Ultimate Assistant Guide for $99 šš¼ https://lg-education.mykajabi.com/ultimateassistantguide | |||
| The BEST Holiday Promo Weāve Ever Done ā And Why It Worked So Damn Well | 13 oct. 2025 | 00:12:26 | |
Tired of holiday promos that flop or feel forced? In this episode, Lacey shares the story behind Salon Laceās most successful holiday promotion ever - Luck of the Draw.Ā It boosted retail sales, built team momentum, and turned the salon into a place of pure excitement all month long. 1. The Concept: 2. The Team Incentive: 3. The Vibe: āDonāt just decorate your salon - activate it. The energy should hit your guests the second they walk in.ā 4. Why It Worked:
Donāt overcomplicate your holiday marketing. All you need is creativity, a competitive twist, and a team thatās excited to play the game. Weāve got you covered -grab a peek at ourĀ Luck of the Draw Inspiration Folder šš¼ https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1PLE9q1gYl_x661RrOzUC8JR806cEjjmJ?usp=sharingĀ Tag @laceygeboĀ if you run this promo- she wants to see your poker hands and holiday setups! | |||
| Are Your Expectations Too High as a Salon Owner? | 06 oct. 2025 | 00:21:21 | |
āAm I too intense? Do I expect too much? Am I the problem?ā If youāve ever asked yourself those questions, youāre not alone. In todayās episode, Iām pulling back the curtain on a conversation that so many salon owners are having behind closed doors. Maybe youāve had a stylist say,Ā āThis job is too mentally taxing.āĀ Maybe a team member made you feel like your standards are ātoo much.ā And maybe, just maybe, youāve found yourself softening your expectations out of guilt. I get it. Iāve been there. I even had one of my own leaders tell me that everything we were doing inside Salon Lace, one-on-ones, assistant classes, extension training, photoshoots, retreats, train-the-trainers was āTOO MUCH.ā And Iāll be honest, for a moment, it made me want to shrink back and do nothing at all. But hereās the truth: high expectations are not a weakness. Theyāre a leadership strength when theyāre clearly communicated. What Youāll Learn in This Episode: āØ Why guilt creeps in when your team pushes back, and how to stop doubting yourself. Hereās the reframe: itās not about lowering the bar. Itās about finding people who are willing and excited to rise to it. Because the right people? Theyāll call your standards home. This week, I want you to audit your expectations.
Need help creating those expectations? Grab ourĀ Dress CodeĀ ā https://lg-education.kit.com/2e4e9f724d Grab ourĀ Ultimate Assistant GuideĀ ā https://lg-education.mykajabi.com/ultimateassistantguideĀ Itāll give you the systems, visuals, and clarity you need to lead with confidence. Suggest podcast topics here ā¤µļøĀ https://forms.gle/ThasbxyzUSVv6i2w8 Follow us on social! Instagram: @lacey_gebo Facebook: The New Era of Assistant Training | |||
| Cancelled Culture: Why Stylists Quit Instead of Facing Conflict | 29 sept. 2025 | 00:24:11 | |
If you avoid conflict to keep the peace, you start a war inside yourself... Sit with that for a second. In this episode, Iām diving into one of the toughest, but most necessary parts of salon life: conflict. Weāre talking about why so many stylists bounce at the first sign of tension, why itās destroying salon culture, and how you can start repairing instead of replacing. Iāll share personal stories from my own leadership journey (yep, the messy conversations I wish I didnāt have to have), plus practical tools you can use to face conflict without blowing up relationships. By the end, youāll walk away with a simple framework that works in any salon conversation owner to stylist, stylist to stylist, or anywhere in between. Hereās what youāll learn in this episode:
Conflict avoided becomes conflict compounded. Conflict processed becomes trust deposited. If youāve been peace-keeping to avoid a scene, itās costing you more than you think. This is your challenge: water your own grass. Have the hard conversation. Growth is on the other side. šš¼ Tune in now to hear why cancel culture doesnāt belong in your salon and how to start building a culture of repair instead of replacement. Suggest podcast topics here ā¤µļøĀ https://forms.gle/ThasbxyzUSVv6i2w8 Follow us on social! Instagram: @lacey_gebo Facebook: The New Era of Assistant TrainingĀ | |||
| How to Hire for Chair Rental Without Wrecking Your Salon Culture | 22 sept. 2025 | 00:20:35 | |
Back in 2020 when we switched to a rental/hybrid model, I made a big mistake: I brought in renters from other salons who werenāt aligned with our culture. They were talented, sureā¦ but they didnāt know our systems, our standards, or the āSalon Lace way.ā And honestly? That was on me. Thatās when I realized: chair rental without structure = chaos. In this episode, Iām sharing how we turned things around and why, at Salon Lace, theĀ cost of admissionĀ is simple, every renter goes through our Assistant Program. It protects our culture, sets clear expectations, creates consistency for guests, and builds a team that feels connected (even in a rental model). Weāll also talk about what to do with experienced stylists, how to market chair rental the right way, and why your culture is theĀ realĀ selling point. š§ Tune in to learn how to protect your culture, avoid the chaos, and build something lasting. šš¼ And if you need a step-by-step framework to onboard and train your Assistants, grab myĀ Ultimate Assistant Guide, normally $299, but right now itās just $99 with codeĀ 2025. ā¤µļø https://lg-education.mykajabi.com/ultimateassistantguide āØĀ Mentioned in this episode:Ā Here are 3 post options you can use when hiring for a booth renter šš¼ https://docs.google.com/document/d/1FfEbRG48lsE5uxUjSAOA8-HfX0ik5swvzt8J9yCMXc0/edit?usp=sharing Suggest podcast topics here ā¤µļøĀ https://forms.gle/ThasbxyzUSVv6i2w8 Follow us on social! Instagram: @lacey_gebo Facebook: The New Era of Assistant TrainingĀ | |||
| Is Minimum Wage Fair Pay for an Assistant? | 15 sept. 2025 | 00:25:32 | |
Minimum wage in Oklahoma has been $7.25 since 2009 and for years thatās exactly what I paid my assistants. Later, I raised it to $10 an hourā¦ and nothing changed. So why do salon owners feel pressured to pay assistants āwell aboveā minimum wage? In this episode, Iām sharing the pros, cons, and my perspective on paying assistants minimum wage, how to set pay based on your numbers (not guilt), and why your culture and education matter far more than the hourly rate. What Youāll Learn:
Key Takeaway Suggest podcast topics here ā¤µļøĀ https://forms.gle/ThasbxyzUSVv6i2w8 Follow us on social! Instagram: @lacey_gebo Facebook: The New Era of Assistant TrainingĀ | |||
| Leadership + Personal Development Activities for Your Future Leaders | 08 sept. 2025 | 00:34:28 | |
In todayās episode, Iām sharing 12 of my favorite activities weāve used to grow future leaders. These arenāt fluffy icebreakersā¦ theyāre the exact exercises that have shaped my team, strengthened our culture, and created lasting impact. Theyāre practical, interactive, and you can start using them with your team right away. I even created a free companion resource for you! š Itās called Leadership + Personal Development Activities for Your Future Leaders, and it has all 12 activities (plus more!) laid out step by step so you can easily implement them in your salon. šš¼Grab your free guide here: https://lg-education.kit.com/4ccedb98dc One of the activities I love most is our Full Focus Annual Goals Deep Dive. If youāve been around for a while, you know I swear by the Full Focus Planner, and I use it with my team to help them dream big, set aligned goals, and take ownership of their growth. If you donāt already have one, you can grab it here ā https://www.amazon.com/dp/1737211955?linkCode=ssc&tag=onamzlaceygeb-20&creativeASIN=1737211955&asc_item-id=amzn1.ideas.3HX9TWMWKLOJT&ref_=aip_sf_list_spv_ons_mixed_d_asin&th=1 These activities donāt just create stronger trainers, they create confident, heart-led leaders who know how to pour into others. When your culture is built on leaders like that? Everything changes. Suggest Podcast topics here šš¼ | |||
| My Morning Playbook: Routines, Rituals, and Productivity Hacks | 01 sept. 2025 | 00:23:18 | |
Life has seasons and sometimes morning routines just donāt fit. If youāre a new mom or in a messy season, give yourself grace. Your time will come. In this episode, I share my current playbook, my three morning non-negotiables, and the simple hacks that keep me grounded as a salon owner, mom, and business coach. Itās not about a āperfect routineā ā itās about consistency, rituals that fit your season, and giving yourself permission to keep it simple. What Youāll Learn āØ Why consistency always beats intensity Links & Resources
ā¢ Skylight Calendar - Get $20 off your Calendar by using the following discount code: FRIEND-XV2MSH8. You can use this discount when purchasing a new Calendar atĀ https://myskylight.com/products/skylight-calendar Final Thought Your routine doesnāt have to look like mine but it should feel like yours. Anchor your day, protect your peace, and give yourself grace when itās messy. | |||
| Delegation Detox: 5 Tasks Iāll Never Touch Again | 25 aoĆ»t 2025 | 00:28:35 | |
If youāre still scrubbing toilets, restocking color, or running your salonās Instagramā¦ this episode is your wake-up call. āØ Most salon owners hold onto tasks way too long, thinking theyāre saving money or staying in control. The truth? That mindset keeps you stuck, burnt out, and blocks your growth. In this episode, Iām sharing theĀ five specific tasks Iāve learned to delegate, who should take them over, and why itās non-negotiable if you want to build a succesful salon and a confident team. Hereās what youāll learn:
š” Quote to remember:Ā āWhen you delegate the small things, you free yourself to lead the big things.ā šš¼Ā Quick announcement:Ā OurĀ Culture Community is officially open for enrollmentābut not for long! Doors close Tuesday, September 2nd at 11:59pm. Culture is for past AU students and Online Assistant Course students come together to take the next step in building confident teams and strong salon cultures that last. Inside, youāll find:
Check your email for the link to join before doors close! š§ Press play to discover the 5 tasks you must let go of to finally step into your role as a true salon leader. And after you listen, DM me on InstagramĀ @lacey_geboĀ and share your delegation wināIād love to celebrate with you! Suggest podcast topics here ā¤µļø https://forms.gle/as32WJsRDWTRHbuWA Follow us on social! Instagram: @lacey_gebo Facebook: The New Era of Assistant TrainingĀ | |||
| Why I Mute and Unfollow Ex-Employees | 18 aoƻt 2025 | 00:13:29 | |
Sometimes leadership comes with tough choices, and yes, that includes hitting āmuteā or āunfollowā on social media when a team member leaves your salon. In this episode, Iām getting real about why protecting your energy isnāt pettiness- itās self-care, boundaries, and emotional maturity. If youāve ever felt that gut-punch when someone moves on from your team, this episode gives you permission to do whatās best for YOU while continuing to grow as a leader. What Youāll Learn in This Episode:
Follow us on social! Instagram: @lacey_gebo Facebook: The New Era of Assistant TrainingĀ | |||
| Sticky Boobs & Split Pants: The Wardrobe Malfunctions Weāll Never Forget | 11 aoĆ»t 2025 | 00:20:14 | |
Weāre switching gears this week, friendsā¦ because sometimes you just need a good laugh (and maybe a leadership reminder snuck in at the end). In this episode, Iām spilling the tea on the most outrageous,Ā did-that-really-just-happenĀ wardrobe disasters from behind the chair, mine, my teamās, and even my studentsā. Weāre talking:
You will laugh. You will cringe. You will never look at your backup outfit stash the same way again. But donāt worry this isnātĀ allĀ chaos. Iām also sharing: Because yes, you can laugh until you cryĀ andĀ still lead like a pro. š” Key Takeaway:Ā What you permit, you promote. Your teamās wardrobe matters for your culture and your brandāso keep it classy (or at least keep it covered). Follow us on social! Instagram: @lacey_gebo Facebook: The New Era of Assistant TrainingĀ | |||
| The Serial Signer Upper ā I'm Calling Your Ass Out!! (Yes, Iām talking to YOUā¦ with love š) | 04 aoĆ»t 2025 | 00:13:00 | |
Are you constantly signing up for courses, masterminds, or membershipsā¦ but nothing is actually changing in your business? In this episode, Iām calling out the Serial Signer-Uppers, the stylists and salon owners who are stuck in a never-ending season of āyes.ā You know the drill: you sign up for the thing, download the workbook, watch a few trainingsā¦ and then it collects digital dust. šµāš« Here is the truth: education without implementation is just a cute distraction. Youāre buying the planner but not planning. Hereās the truth no one wants to say out loud: In this episode, weāll dive into:
The questions you must ask yourself: If youāve ever said,Ā āIām such a serial signer-upperā this oneās for you. Weāre talking tough love, powerful mindset shifts, and a big olā permission slip to slow down and implement. Your next breakthrough isnāt in the next course. Take our quiz to see if you are ready to bring on an assistant here šš¼ https://form.typeform.com/to/XXRydVkd Join the AU Waitlist- https://lg-education.kit.com/b49e10d384 Follow us on social! Instagram: @lacey_gebo Facebook: The New Era of Assistant Training | |||