Salon Rising – Details, episodes & analysis

This week in the Inner Sanctum, we welcome back the incredible Monique McMahon, owner of Que Colour and global ambassador for Christophe Robin.

In this heartfelt and honest episode, Monique shares how small shifts in efficiency have transformed her business. Why profitability doesn’t always mean having more staff. And the personal changes that are fuelling her success.

From cutting out coffee and alcohol to scaling her team with intention, Monique reveals the behind the scenes strategies that are keeping her salon thriving. All while preparing for a major US tour.

Expect candid conversations about rebooking rates, cutting costs without cutting corners, the role of presence in leadership, and why Google Reviews are more powerful than you think.

💡 What you’ll learn:

• How fewer staff can sometimes mean higher profits
• Smart ways to boost salon efficiency without sacrificing client care
• Why presence matters as much as skill in building client loyalty
• The truth about social media (and why you don’t have to do it)
• How small personal changes can ripple into massive business success

Timestamps

00:00 Episode Summary

02:31 Team Dynamics and Business Challenges

04:33 Efficiency and Business Operations

22:07 Client Experience and Rebooking Strategies

23:01 The Importance of Presence and Confidence

34:02 Training Framework and Social Media

35:28 Balancing Social Media and Business

40:10 Google Reviews and Client Engagement

43:40 Team Meetings and Delegation

49:50 Lifestyle Changes and Business Efficiency

51:38 Innovative Hair Products

59:18 Future Plans and Ambitions

1:04:25 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

✨ Whether you’re a salon owner, solo operator, or stylist ready to level up, this conversation with Monique will leave you inspired and ready to take action.

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💡 Get 20% off your Q Wrap order with code SR20 today - Q Wrap

💛 A HUGE Thank You to Our Podcast Sponsors - Timely

We’ve partnered with Timely to bring you something special:

New customers get 50% off their first 3 months.

If you've been thinking about levelling up your salon systems, this is your moment. Timely is designed specifically for salons—helping you manage bookings, clients, staff, and more with ease.

🛍️ Head to Timely and use the code SALONRISING at checkout to claim the offer.

Mentioned in this episode:

💛 Ready to Join Samara LIVE and Transform Your Business?

This August, join Samara LIVE inside Solo Rise Online and Rising Finances Online.

If you’ve been craving more connection, more accountability, and real time coaching with Samara, this is your chance. You’ll tackle the challenges holding you back so you can step into clarity, confidence, and a business that truly supports your life.

➡ Starts August 27th.
➡ Limited spaces.
➡ Weekly and monthly payment plans

Thinking about hiring your first team member...but feeling the fear? You’re not alone.

In this honest and practical Mini Moment, Samara and Jen break down the real emotions and strategy behind that first hire.

From burnout and back to back days on the floor, to making space for growth, they share the personal and financial checkpoints every salon owner should consider. The girls discuss their own hiring journey. From deciding whether they could afford it, to crafting the right SEEK ad, navigating friend networks, and trusting their gut in interviews.

If you’re exhausted, overbooked, or dreaming of building something bigger, this mini moment gives you the insight (and encouragement) to take your next brave step.

🎧 Listen now to learn:

• How to know when you’re really ready to hire
• What your first staff member should bring to the table
• Smart ways to test fit without committing fast
• How to write job ads that attract the right people
• Why the vibe matters more than the resume

Timestamps

00:00 Introduction

00:11 The Journey to Hiring

01:24 Financial Considerations Before Hiring

01:58 First Hire Experience

03:26 Handling Quiet Weeks

08:13 The Hiring Process

10:12 Navigating Confidentiality

13:54 Trial Periods

16:06 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

💛 A HUGE Thank You to Our Mini Moment Sponsors - Timely

We’ve partnered with Timely to bring you something special:

New customers get 50% off their first 3 months.

If you've been thinking about levelling up your salon systems, this is your moment. Timely is designed specifically for salons—helping you manage bookings, clients, staff, and more with ease.

🛍️ Head to Timely and use the code SALONRISING at checkout to claim the offer.

Mentioned in this episode:

💛 Ready to Join Samara LIVE and Transform Your Business?

This August, join Samara LIVE inside Solo Rise Online and Rising Finances Online.

If you’ve been craving more connection, more accountability, and real time coaching with Samara, this is your chance. You’ll tackle the challenges holding you back so you can step into clarity, confidence, and a business that truly supports your life.

➡ Starts August 27th.
➡ Limited spaces.
➡ Weekly and monthly payment plans available.

Click below to Join Now 👇

LIVE Programs

What does it really mean to command a room, without being the loudest in it?

In this magnetic episode, we sit down with Tiana Baxter, a powerhouse in business and personal transformation, to explore the kind of leadership that begins behind the scenes.

From corporate boardrooms to building multiple million dollar businesses, Tiana opens up about reinventing herself, integrating faith, and learning how to lead from deep integrity, even when the spotlight fades.

We talk body language, energy, influence, and the truth about what makes someone truly magnetic. And we go into marriage shifts, motherhood, losing and finding your voice again, and why silence can sometimes be your most powerful strategy.

💥 Big lessons?

• Influence starts with how you lead yourself

• Why your identity must match your next level

• How to spot when you’re burnt out, or just overwhelmed

• What quiet power really looks like in relationships and business

Whether you're in hustle mode or quietly rebuilding, Tiana’s story will shift how you think about leadership, self worth, and what it takes to rise with purpose.

🎧 Listen now for a grounding, insight packed, and fiercely honest episode that will change how you show up.

💌 Don’t forget to subscribe if this podcast has ever made you laugh, cry, think, or helped you feel more powerful in your own skin.

00:00 Episode Summary

01:41 Introduction to the Podcast

02:52 Meet Tiana Baxter

04:23 Tiana's Journey and Insights

05:35 The Evolution of Leadership

08:05 Navigating Business Growth and Challenges

13:31 The Role of Integrity in Leadership

14:42 Balancing Personal and Professional Growth

29:32 Expanding Capacity and Self Care

32:19 The Hustle and Overwhelm

33:16 Balancing Passion and Burnout

36:41 Rebranding and Finding Purpose

40:39 Navigating Personal and Professional Growth

47:18 Leadership and Self-Responsibility

53:04 Faith and Personal Evolution

1:02:03 Foundations of Personal Development

1:02:22 Principles of Marriage

1:02:57 The Role of Women in Relationships

1:07:15 Influence and Support Networks

1:09:45 Leadership and Integrity

1:14:49 Letting Go and Finding Peace

1:22:41 Identity and Vision

1:25:17 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

💛 A HUGE Thank You to Our Podcast Sponsors - Timely

✨ Timely – Your dream booking system

We’ve partnered with Timely to bring you something special:

New customers get 50% off their first 3 months.

If you've been thinking about levelling up your salon systems, this is your moment. Timely is designed specifically for salons—helping you manage bookings, clients, staff, and more with ease.

🛍️ Head to Timely and use the code SALONRISING at checkout to claim the offer.

Mentioned in this episode:

💛 Ready to Join Samara LIVE and Transform Your Business?

This August, join Samara LIVE inside Solo Rise Online and Rising Finances Online.

If you’ve been craving more connection, more accountability, and real time coaching with Samara, this is your chance. You’ll tackle the challenges holding you back so you can step into clarity, confidence, and a business that truly supports your life.

➡ Starts August 27th.
➡ Limited spaces.
➡ Weekly and monthly payment plans available.

Click below to Join Now 👇

LIVE Programs

Timely

What happens when the worst has already happened?

In this powerful follow-up, Ashe Hornsby returns to the Inner Sanctum to deliver the raw, unfiltered truth about what it really takes to survive the unthinkable—and come back stronger.

From losing her partner, her business, and almost herself, Ashe shares how she navigated grief, burnout, legal battles, and letting go of the fight. We talk rebuilding from a literal fire, running a business in a shed during Covid, opening (and closing) a café, and learning when it’s time to surrender instead of push.

💥 Big lessons?

• The difference between surviving and actually living
• Why boundaries matter more when everything is burning
• How slowing down became Ashe’s greatest power move

Whether you're in the thick of it or climbing your way back, Ashe’s story will remind you that resilience isn’t always loud—it’s choosing to keep going, even when no one sees it.

🎧 Listen now for a brutally honest, heartbreakingly funny, and deeply inspiring look behind the scenes of rebuilding.

💌 Don’t forget to subscribe if this podcast has ever made you laugh, cry, think—or feel a little less alone.

Timestamps

00:00 Episode Summary

02:44 Reintroducing Ashe and Reflecting on Part One

04:03 The Impact of Covid on Business Operations

05:35 Rebuilding Amidst Challenges

06:08 The Importance of Insurance and Financial Preparedness

09:17 Leadership and Team Management During Crises

12:33 The Struggles of Small Business Owners

18:58 The Value of Transparency and Communication

27:44 Appreciating Discounts and Fair Work Regulations

33:47 Struggles During COVID-19

34:41 Mom's Battle with Cancer

38:35 Opening a Restaurant Amidst Chaos

45:51 Lessons from a Failed Venture

57:14 Reflecting on Business and Life

💛 A HUGE Thank You to Our Podcast Sponsors - Timely

✨ Timely – Your dream booking system

We’ve partnered with Timely to bring you something special:

New customers get 50% off their first 3 months.

If you've been thinking about levelling up your salon systems, this is your moment. Timely is designed specifically for salons—helping you manage bookings, clients, staff, and more with ease.

🛍️ Head to Timely and use the code SALONRISING at checkout to claim the offer.

Mentioned in this episode:

Timely

💛 Ready to Join Samara LIVE and Transform Your Business?

This August, join Samara LIVE inside Solo Rise Online and Rising Finances Online.

If you’ve been craving more connection, more accountability, and real time coaching with Samara, this is your chance. You’ll tackle the challenges holding you back so you can step into clarity, confidence, and a business that truly supports your life.

➡ Starts August 27th.
➡ Limited spaces.
➡ Weekly and monthly payment plans available.

Click below to Join Now 👇

LIVE Programs

In this highlight, Samara and Jen chat with Sherri, who leads ANZ partnerships for Timely.

They talk about why many solo businesses shut down within 18 months…and how you can stop that from happening to you. They share easy tips to help your business stay strong and explain what it really costs to work for yourself…beyond just time and money.

They also talk about how hard it can be to do everything on your own. If you wait until you’re burnt out, it might be too late. But small changes in the way you plan and run your business can make a big difference over time.

You’ll also hear real talk about what success really looks like, and why it’s okay to build a business that works for you, not just what others expect.

If you own a salon, are working on your own or thinking about it, this episode will help you build a business that lasts. One step at a time.

00:00 Introduction and Background

00:42 The Importance of Software in Business

01:39 Understanding Business Metrics

02:23 Challenges of Solo Business Ownership

06:31 The Role of Business Coaching

09:00 Daily Routines and Personal Reflections

11:08 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Inspired? Listen to the full episode here:

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/the-business-lessons-youll-wish-you-learned-with/id1675792257?i=1000682799780

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/2kHschWM6C7UZbw4JcfMMg?si=0XmcJOPGSR2t584yMQhE4A

YouTube: https://youtu.be/tAMgHJCsQ_8?feature=shared

Mentioned in this episode:

💛 Ready to Join Samara LIVE and Transform Your Business?

This August, join Samara LIVE inside Solo Rise Online and Rising Finances Online.

If you’ve been craving more connection, more accountability, and real time coaching with Samara, this is your chance. You’ll tackle the challenges holding you back so you can step into clarity, confidence, and a business that truly supports your life.

➡ Starts August 27th.
➡ Limited spaces.
➡ Weekly and monthly payment plans available.

Click below to Join Now 👇

LIVE Programs

On this episode we dive into the power of connection, community, and finding your people in the hair industry.

Aimee, owner of Bhava Salon and creator of Mane Union, shares her journey of moving interstate, the unexpected loneliness that followed, and how she turned that experience into something bigger. Mane Union was born from a desire to create a space where hairstylists and salon owners could truly connect, collaborate, and feel seen.

If you've ever felt like you're doing it all alone, this episode is a must-listen. Whether you're craving real conversations, industry support, or just a group of like-minded people who get it, this is your sign to find (or create) your own community.

00:00 Episode Summary

04:35.9 Introducing Amy from Mane Union

06:03.9 Amy's Journey: Moving and Starting Fresh

08:16.9 Challenges and Triumphs in Salon Management

08:39.9 The Impact of COVID-19 on Business

17:21.9 Transitioning Ownership and New Beginnings

25:33.9 The Emotional Toll of Staff Turnover

35:14.6 Navigating Personal Relationships in the Salon Industry

36:10.6 Handling Client Communication During Transitions

39:56.6 Challenges of Freelancers and Business Models

42:25.6 The Birth of Mane Union

43:06.6 Creating Safe Spaces for Connection

46:23.6 Balancing Personal and Professional Life

52:29.6 The Importance of Small, Intimate Gatherings

56:38.6 Vision and Future of Mane Union

58:44.6 The Role of Social Media in Building Connections

01:04:27.6 Final Thoughts and Closing Remarks

A huge thank you to Timely for making this episode possible. We’ve teamed up with them to bring you something special — new customers get 50% off their first three months.

If you’ve been thinking about levelling up your booking system, now’s the perfect time. Timely is built for salons like yours.

Use the code SALONRISING at checkout to claim the offer 👉 Timely

Mentioned in this episode:

Timely

Trigger warning: This episode discusses pregnancy loss.

This week, Samara was flying solo in the Inner Sanctum (thanks to Jen getting stuck with a client—#SalonLife) for a deeply personal and powerful chat with Ash Bailey, also known as @socialcoachash.

Together, they dive into the raw reality of navigating pregnancy, running a business, and processing loss. Ash opens up about her journey through a second pregnancy, the emotional weight of miscarriage, and the challenges of balancing it all while showing up online. They also get real about setting boundaries, protecting your mental health, and using social media in a way that feels right for you.

This episode is a must-listen for business owners who’ve ever had to keep going when life throws its hardest moments at them—and for anyone who values honesty, resilience, and the power of community. 

If you or someone you know needs support, resources are available through Miscarriage Australia and Pink Elephants.

00:00 Trigger Warning

01:25 Special Guest Introduction: Ash from Social Coach Ash

02:33 Ash's Pregnancy Announcement

02:55 Navigating Pregnancy and Business

03:33 Experiencing Pregnancy Loss

05:20 Coping Mechanisms and Support Systems

08:30 Balancing Business and Personal Life

32:19 Future Plans and Advice for Business Owners

44:05 Navigating Parenthood: The Ups and Downs

45:36 Balancing Business and Motherhood

49:05 The Challenges of Travel and Work

53:52 The Importance of Boundaries

55:33 Effective Social Media Strategies

01:08:40 The Emotional Journey of Pregnancy After Loss

01:14:31 Final Thoughts and Support

Mentioned in this episode:

💛 A HUGE Thank You to Our Podcast Sponsors - Timely

We’ve partnered with Timely to bring you something special:

New customers get 50% off their first 3 months.

If you've been thinking about levelling up your salon systems, this is your moment. Timely is designed specifically for salons, helping you manage bookings, clients, staff, and more with ease.

Click the link below and use the code SALONRISING at checkout to claim the offer 👇

Timely

In this episode, we chat with the incredible Ashe Hornsby. She has faced unimaginable loss and emerged stronger. After losing her husband, the face of their successful stonemasonry business, Ashe had to deal with her own grief and support her young family. At the same time, she managed the challenges of a male-dominated industry.

Ash talks about resilience and why having the right safeguards, like insurance, matters. She explains how seeking inspiration outside your field can change the game. She shares valuable lessons on patience, strategic thinking, and pushing through tough times.

This is a candid conversation about overcoming obstacles, making bold business choices, and trusting yourself in life’s hardest moments. If you need a reminder that you can rise above anything, this episode is for you.

00:00 Introduction to Ashe's Story

02:04 Podcast Milestone and Today's Theme

03:19 Introducing Ashe Hornsby

05:40 Ashe's Journey

12:25 Financial Management Tips

18:44 Silicosis Crisis in the Industry

22:25 Personal Tragedy and Resilience

25:59 The Importance of Having a Will

29:46 Rebuilding and Moving Forward

33:33 Personal Life and New Beginnings

34:50 The Telly Rats and Childhood Memories

35:31 Coping with Loss and Grief

41:08 Navigating Business Challenges

42:59 The Factory Fire Incident

46:58 Insurance Woes and Lessons Learned

1:00:53 Reflections and Moving Forward 

You don’t need to do it alone, Salon Owner Babes!

Rising Finances Online helps you understand your finances and grow your salon business. It has 9 detailed modules and over 60 in-depth lessons. You also get hours of expert advice. Take control of your finances and plan for success with confidence.

Visit salonrising.com and start today.

https://www.salonrising.com/

Find out more and watch out for updates on socials @ -

https://www.instagram.com/salonrising_/

Hit subscribe for more real, inspiring convos!

In this episode in the inner sanctum, we’re keeping it real about the New Year—no fluffy resolutions, just practical ways to set goals and actually follow through. 

We dive into navigating multiple roles, business shifts, and making lifestyle changes that feel good (hello, dopamine hacks!). Plus, we’re shaking up traditional goal-setting by swapping vision boards for something way more fun—Bingo cards. 

From managing energy post-holiday chaos to setting goals that actually stick, this conversation is all about making the new year work for you. Expect laughs, honesty, and a refreshing take on growth without the pressure.

00:00 Episode Summary

01:58 Podcast Introduction and Swearing Resolutions

02:48 Holiday Experiences and Restfulness

04:21 Decluttering and Switching Off

05:01 Managing Responsibilities and Control

07:59 Accountability and ADHD in Business

12:53 Vision Bingo and New Year Goals

17:05 75-Day Habit Challenge

19:39 Financial Tracking and Budgeting

28:47 Spending Restrictions and Regrets

29:56 Grocery Shopping Challenges

32:11 Team Goals and Learning Aspirations

35:16 Social Media Detox

36:56 Personal and Business Goals

42:29 Health and Wellness Commitments

50:34 Reflecting on the Year Ahead

54:01 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

You don’t need to do it alone, Salon Owner Babes!

Rising Finances Online helps you understand your finances and grow your salon business. It has 9 detailed modules and over 60 in-depth lessons. You also get hours of expert advice. Take control of your finances and plan for success with confidence.

Visit salonrising.com and start your FREE trial today! 

https://www.salonrising.com/

Find out more and watch out for updates on socials @ -

https://www.instagram.com/salonrising_/

Hit subscribe for more real, inspiring convos!

In this episode of Salon Rising The Podcast, we chat with the incredible Sarah Lancaster—salon owner (Cole & Co Hair), mum of three, and the brains behind The Relief Hairdresser. Sarah’s built something pretty special, growing her business from a home setup to a full salon while creating a much-needed service that helps salons find reliable, temporary stylists when they need them most.

We talk about the juggle (because it’s real), the importance of solid policies, and how she’s handled everything from growing a team to navigating unexpected challenges (floods included!). Sarah’s approach is thoughtful, considered, and quietly determined—proof that you don’t have to be the loudest in the room to make a big impact.

And The Relief Hairdresser has a special offer for Salon Rising Podcast listeners! Receive 10% off any relief booking by using the booking code "Salon Rising" x

00:00 Episode Summary

01:56 Introducing Our First Guest of the Year

02:33 Sarah Lancaster's Journey

03:40 Building a Team from Home

05:25 Managing the Relief Hairdresser

08:37 Education and Skill Development

11:53 Handling Client and Staff Dynamics

14:34 Operational Insights and Feedback

21:24 Balancing Teamwork and Independence

21:35 Returning to Roots and Business Adaptation

22:36 Flood Crisis and Community Support

23:38 Relocating and Repurposing Spaces

25:20 Juggling Family and Business Responsibilities

27:38 Coping Mechanisms for Busy Minds

32:48 Training and Team Development

37:51 Learning from Mistakes and Implementing Policies

44:41 Future Goals and Aspirations

45:33 Conclusion and Gratitude

You don’t need to do it alone, Salon Owner Babes!

Rising Finances Online helps you understand your finances and grow your salon business. It has 9 detailed modules and 65 in-depth lessons. You also get hours of expert advice. Take control of your finances and plan for success with confidence.

Let’s rise together – sign up today!

https://www.salonrising.com/rising-finances-online

https://www.salonrising.com/

Find out more and watch out for updates on socials @ -

https://www.instagram.com/salonrising_/

Hit subscribe for more real, inspiring convos!