Real Stories, Real Learners, Real Inspiration. Tune in to Learners’ Voice Podcast and hair apprentices in the hair and beauty industry share their unique journeys, challenges, and successes. Their voices, their stories—amplified!
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Beyond the Fade: What Really Makes a Great Barber?
Episode 21
Monday, September 7, 2026 • Duration 43:37
Featuring Ji — Director of Sonder Mens & Sonder Academy, Sydney
Hosted by Belinda Mindset
The Learners Voice — in collaboration with Belinda Mindset, Education and Concept Hair
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🎙️ Episode Overview
Barbering is huge right now.
Social media is full of fades, fashion, status, packed shops, awards and barbers building impressive personal brands.
But here’s the question we explore in this episode:
Is status and success really what makes a great barber?
In this special international episode of The Learners Voice, Belinda Mindset sits down with Ji, Director of Sonder Mens and Sonder Academy in Sydney, Australia, during Hair Festival Australia.
Ji’s story gives learners a very different perspective on success.
Because behind the growth of Sonder is something much bigger than barbering skill.
It’s education, consistency, integrity, discipline, teamwork, culture and a genuine desire to keep improving.
And there is a very personal connection to this conversation for Belinda.
Ji is part of the journey of Belinda’s son, Rhys Hillman, who travelled from the UK to Australia to pursue his own barbering dream and is now part of the Sonder team.
This makes the episode about much more than business.
It’s about what employers actually look for in young barbers — and what learners can develop long before they become technically brilliant.
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✂️ From Teen Barber to Building Sonder
Ji shares how his barbering journey began as a teenager, cutting hair while still at school.
His early experience taught him the intensity of a traditional barber shop — the pace, teamwork and atmosphere.
But he and his business partner eventually saw an opportunity to do things differently.
Sonder was built around a clear vision:
Appointment-based barbering
A premium client experience
Strong education
A recognisable brand
Consistency
Team culture
Continuous development
What began with two young barbers has grown into a much bigger vision incorporating barbering, education, leadership and opportunities for the people within the business.
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🧠 Do You Need to Be the Best Barber?
One of the biggest lessons Ji shares is how his approach to recruitment has changed.
Initially, he believed he needed to find the best barbers.
Now he sees it differently.
You don’t necessarily need the best barber. You need the best person.
Technical skills can be developed through training, practice and mentoring.
Character is much harder to teach.
Ji explains why honesty, integrity, work ethic, accountability and attitude can ultimately be more valuable than having the strongest technical skills on day one.
For learners, this is a powerful message:
Your skill matters. But who you are matters too.
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🌱 What Really Makes a Great Barber?
This episode explores the qualities that sit underneath technical ability.
Education
A great barber never thinks they’ve finished learning.
Ji talks about creating a culture where education is continuous — not something that ends when a qualification does.
Consistency
Doing something once doesn’t make you good at it.
Doing it repeatedly, reflecting, correcting and improving does.
Ji’s advice is simple:
Focus on the input, not the outcome.
Put the right work in consistently and improvement becomes inevitable.
Integrity
Who are you when nobody is watching?
Ji explains why integrity is fundamental to the Sonder culture.
Knowing your own values gives you a framework for making good decisions — especially when things become difficult.
Work Ethic
Success isn’t always glamorous.
There are early mornings, long days, setbacks, difficult conversations and periods when the results don’t appear quickly.
Ji shares the reality behind the growth of Sonder — not just the success people see online.
Emotional Intelligence
Belinda reflects on something she noticed when meeting the Sonder team in person:
The kindness, emotional intelligence and genuine happiness they showed when seeing each other succeed.
That matters.
A great barber doesn’t just know how to cut hair.
They know how to work with people.
Client Care
The haircut is only part of the experience.
Listening, consulting, understanding what the client wants and making them feel valued are all part of becoming a professional.
Presentation
Belinda and Ji discuss one of the Belinda Mindset cards:
First Impressions Count.
Your appearance, hygiene, hair, clothing and overall presentation communicate something before you even begin the consultation.
If you want clients to trust you as someone who understands style, your own presentation becomes part of that trust.
Product Knowledge
Retail isn’t simply about selling products.
It’s about knowing them well enough to make a genuine recommendation.
Understanding ingredients, benefits, application and suitability allows you to confidently explain why a product could make a difference to your client’s hair.
Education creates confidence.
Confidence creates better conversations.
And better conversations create better client experiences.
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❤️ Rhys Hillman — From Dreaming About Australia to Sonder
This episode brings Rhys Hillman’s story full circle.
Rhys was previously a guest on The Learners Voice — Episode 6, where he shared his own journey and ambitions in barbering.
Now, in this episode, Ji explains what stood out about Rhys when he was considering joining Sonder.
And the answer wasn’t simply his haircutting ability.
Ji recognised something deeper.
Character.
Rhys had demonstrated:
Persistence
Work ethic
Determination
A willingness to learn
Teamwork
Accountability
Integrity
A genuine desire to improve
Rhys contacted Sonder several times because he genuinely wanted the opportunity.
Ji explains that this persistence showed something about Rhys’s character.
And when the conversation eventually happened, the question wasn’t simply:
“Is he technically good enough?”
It was:
“Is he the kind of person we want in our team?”
That is a hugely important lesson for every learner listening.
Don’t just work on your portfolio.
Work on yourself.
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🎧 Listen to Rhys — Episode 6
Rhys’s original The Learners Voice episode gives listeners the other side of the story — hearing directly from him about his journey, ambitions and desire to build a career in barbering.
The Learners Voice — Episode 6: Rhys Hillman
Listen to Rhys’s Episode 6 on Podbean
Listening to Rhys’s episode alongside this conversation with Ji creates a brilliant mentor-and-learner story across two episodes.
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🔥 The Sonder Culture
One of the strongest themes throughout the conversation is culture.
Sonder isn’t simply about creating barber shops.
Ji describes a vision for an ecosystem where people can continue to grow without reaching a ceiling.
That means creating opportunities for people to progress — whether that’s becoming a better barber, educator, manager, business owner or eventually partner.
For learners, the message is:
Don’t just look for a job. Look for an environment where you can grow.
And when you become part of a team, remember that you also contribute to the culture.
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💭 What Does Success Actually Mean?
Ji challenges the traditional idea of success.
Is success:
More followers?
More shops?
More money?
More recognition?
More status?
Those things might be part of someone’s journey.
But they don’t necessarily define success.
Ji’s bigger ambition is to create an environment where the people around him can achieve their own version of success.
That’s a very different definition.
So ask yourself:
What is YOUR version of success?
And perhaps even more importantly:
What are you doing today to get closer to it?
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🚀 Ji’s Advice to Learners
If you’re starting out in barbering, this episode is packed with lessons.
Don’t obsess over the result.
Focus on your input.
Practice.
Ask questions.
Learn from people better than you.
Accept feedback.
Be consistent.
Look after your clients.
Build relationships.
Take responsibility.
Develop your character alongside your technical ability.
Don’t be afraid to start at the bottom.
And don’t confuse being visible with being successful.
Social media can show people your work.
Your character determines whether people want to work with you.
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🎯 The Learners Voice Challenge
Before your next day in college or the salon, ask yourself:
Am I trying to look successful — or am I actually becoming successful?
Then ask:
Am I learning every day?
Am I practising enough?
Do I accept feedback?
Do I care about my clients?
Can people trust me?
Do I contribute positively to my team?
Do I take responsibility when things go wrong?
Would an employer want to invest in me?
Am I becoming the kind of professional I would want to work with?
Because being a great barber isn’t just about the haircut.
It’s about the person holding the clippers.
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🌏 About Ji
Ji is a Director of Sonder Mens and Sonder Academy in Sydney, Australia.
His barbering journey began as a teenager and has developed into a career combining barbering, education, leadership, business and personal development.
Through Sonder, Ji is passionate about creating a strong learning culture and helping people within the business continue to develop and achieve their own version of success.
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🤝 Thank You to Pivot Point UK
A huge thank you to Pivot Point UK, supporting education and professional development across the hair and beauty industry.
Pivot Point’s commitment to education, innovation and high-quality learning resources aligns perfectly with the message of this episode:
Great professionals never stop learning.
Visit Pivot Point UK
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🧪 Colour Me Safe
This episode is also supported by Colour Me Safe.
Smarter. Safer. Simpler. Patch testing for professionals.
Colour Me Safe is helping professionals rethink the way allergy testing is approached, with a method designed around testing with the actual product being applied.
Client safety isn’t an optional extra.
It’s part of being a professional.
Visit Colour Me Safe
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💛 About The Learners Voice
The Learners Voice is hosted by Belinda Mindset and created to amplify the voices of learners, mentors, educators and industry professionals.
Through honest conversations, the podcast explores the reality behind careers in hair and beauty — including the challenges, confidence, opportunities, mindset and people that shape professional journeys.
The Learners Voice is a collaboration with Belinda Mindset, Education and Concept Hair.
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🌟 A Final Message for Learners
Don’t just chase the next opportunity.
Become the person who is ready for it.
Don’t just learn the haircut.
Learn the profession.
Don’t just build your social media.
Build your character.
Don’t just chase status.
Build something you are proud to be part of.
And remember:
Your voice matters.
Your journey matters.
You matter.
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📚 Free Resources for Learners & Educators
If you’re a learner, mentor, lecturer or salon owner, Belinda Mindset has free resources available to support learners and teams.
Visit the Belinda Mindset store and scroll to the bottom of the page.
Hair Fest Australia :Learner stories, Safer patch testing & Global Opportunities
Episode 20
Monday, August 3, 2026 • Duration 29:34
The Learners Voice Podcast
Australia Special: Learner Stories, Global Opportunities & Safer patch testing for hair colour
In this special international episode of The Learners Voice, recorded live at Hair Festival Australia, Belinda Mindset meets inspiring apprentices, industry leaders and innovative brands that are shaping the future of hairdressing.
From honest conversations about apprenticeship life to discovering how hairdressing can transform communities around the world, this episode is packed with practical advice, motivation and opportunities for learners, educators and salon professionals.
In this episode…
✂️ Meet Frankie from Geelong, Victoria
Frankie shares her apprenticeship journey, explaining why taking your time is one of the biggest lessons she’s learned. She talks openly about wanting to learn everything quickly, how supportive mentors have helped her grow and why learning from different stylists has made her a stronger hairdresser.
Key takeaway:
“Don’t rush your apprenticeship. Every expert has stood where you are today.”
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✂️ Overcoming Challenges as an Apprentice
Belinda Mindset speaks with another apprentice who opens up about almost leaving the industry after developing dermatitis. Hear how determination, support and resilience helped them continue their career, along with their advice for other learners facing challenges.
Welcome to The Learners Voice Podcast, a collaboration with Belinda Mindset, Education and Concept Hair, where we amplify the voices of learners across the hair and beauty industry. Through honest conversations, we celebrate creativity, resilience, and the journeys that shape the next generation of professionals.
In this special episode, host Belinda speaks with two inspiring Concept Hair 2026 winners:
* Freya Cullen-Jones – Winner of the Avant Garde category.
* Freya Field – Overall Concept Hair 2026 Winner and Art Deco Level 3 Champion.
Both guests share their unique journeys into hairdressing, the challenges they’ve overcome, and how competitions have transformed their confidence, creativity, and career aspirations.
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Episode Highlights
Freya Cullen-Jones
* Finding a creative career after feeling uncertain about her future.
* Why hairdressing offered a different path from traditional education.
* Discovering a passion for Avant Garde styling.
* Creating a Wonderland-inspired competition look using unexpected materials, including pipe insulation and wire.
* Overcoming self-doubt and embracing creativity.
AHT National Blackpool Finals
Episode 18
Monday, June 1, 2026 • Duration 01:06:30
The Learners Voice Podcast – Episode 18
Live from the National Hair & Beauty Competitions
In collaboration with Belinda Mindset
In this inspiring live episode of The Learners Voice Podcast, we head to the National Hair & Beauty Competitions to hear directly from learners, educators and creatives across the industry. From overcoming bullying and self-doubt to building confidence through competitions, this episode is packed with honest conversations, emotional moments and incredible ambition.
Sponsored by Pivot Point and featuring conversations around the impact of Belinda Mindset learning and motivational resources, this episode highlights the power of education, creativity and community within the hair and beauty industry.
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In This Episode
Competition Confidence & Creative Expression
Learners from colleges across the UK share their experiences competing in bridal hair, vivid blow dries, body painting, special effects makeup and avant-garde styling. We hear how competitions help learners:
Build confidence
Find their identity
Push creative boundaries
Gain industry exposure
Develop resilience under pressure
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Featured Conversations
Concept Hair Learner Of The Year Finals 2026
Episode 17
Monday, May 4, 2026 • Duration 01:36:49
🎙️ The Learners Voice Podcast
Live from The Concept Hair Learner of the Year Finals
In collaboration with Belinda Mindset
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🎧 Episode Overview
In this special live episode of The Learners Voice Podcast, we head behind the scenes at The Concept Hair Learner of the Year Finals—a celebration of emerging talent in the hair and beauty industry.
You’ll hear directly from learners, finalists, and past winners as they share their real stories—navigating education, overcoming personal challenges, building confidence, and stepping into their future careers.
This episode is packed with honest conversations, inspiration, and powerful reminders that every journey is unique—and every voice matters.
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🙌 Sponsored by Pivot Point
A huge thank you to Pivot Point—a global leader in digital learning and education development for the hair and beauty industry. Their commitment to innovation, ethics, and high-quality educational tools continues to shape the future of beauty education worldwide.
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✨ What You’ll Hear in This Episode
💬 Real learner journeys
My Mentor & Me Special guest Andrew Barton and Caitlin Joyce
Episode 16
Monday, April 6, 2026 • Duration 29:14
🎙️ Belinda Mindset: The Learners Voice
Episode Title: My Mentor and Me – Featuring Andrew Barton & Caitlin Joyce
✨ Episode Overview
Welcome to The Learners Voice, a podcast by Belinda Mindset Education in collaboration with Concept Hair, where real learners share real stories from the hair and beauty industry.
In this first episode of the “My Mentor and Me” series, host Belinda is joined by industry legend Andrew Barton and rising talent Caitlin Joyce from The Manchester College.
Together, they explore the power of mentorship, building confidence, and what it really takes to succeed in the hairdressing industry.
🎧 What You’ll Learn in This Episode
The mission and impact of the ABLE Programme in supporting hairdressing students
Andrew Barton’s journey from leaving school with no qualifications to becoming a global hairdressing expert
How mentorship bridges the gap between college training and real salon experience
Caitlin’s personal journey—overcoming fear, building confidence, and finding her passion
Why making mistakes is essential for growth
The importance of mindset, positivity, and speaking up for opportunities
Career pathways in hairdressing, including salons, cruise ships, and trichology
🌟 Guest Highlights
Andrew Barton
International hairdresser and educator
Founder of the ABLE Programme
Extensive experience across fashion, celebrity styling, and salon ownership
1-2-1 mentoring session From overwhelm to on purpose
Episode 15
Monday, March 2, 2026 • Duration 35:43
Speaker 1: Before we dive into today's episode of The Learner's Voice, I want to take a moment to thank our sponsor PivotPoint. PivotPoint is the driving force worldwide behind digital learning, PivotPoint Lab and education development for the hair and beauty industry. PivotPoint proudly exhibits its responsibility as a company through ethica manufacturing and social accountability standards for producing its premium mannequins and educational tools. We are proud to partner with a company that's shaping the future of beauty education with innovation, integrity and a global vision for learning. Now let's get into the show.
In today's episode I want to welcome Erin Ward. Thank you Erin for joining us today. You won a one-to-one mentoring session through concept hair competition and I'm just really excited to share your journey first year on the shop floor as a level three hairdresser and let's get into it.
Are you struggling with anything at the minute? Like how's your journey going?
Speaker 2: I just started in a new salon in December. I can't lie, I was so stressed. It was so bad. I actually got shingles because I was so stressed about stuff. I'm still in college now. I'm in level three but I've been doing hairdressing for four years.
My first I say proper hairdressing job. Beforehand I was self-employed so I didn't have back-to-back clients, if that makes sense. I wasn't on a strict timing regime. The place I've gone to, it's like you have to be on this time. That's it.
You can't go over. So it's quite stressful and I did think, I was like, oh my god, is this really what hairdressing is about? I think as well, I'm quite an anxious person as it is.
I'm not very confident. If I know someone, I can talk for days to them, but if I don't know someone, I have to take people with me. I'm like, come over with me.
I can't go by myself. So I am quite an anxious person but I think that's, I think it's through COVID. I used to be such a talkative person and then in COVID, just stops really.
Speaker 1: You don't really get to talk to anyone. You've noticed the difference.
YOU HAVE TO WANT IT A JOURNEY to world skills silver medal
Episode 14
Monday, February 2, 2026 • Duration 21:10
🎙️ The Learner’s Voice Podcast
Episode Title: Purpose & Perseverance with Shakaia Powell
In this inspiring episode of The Learner’s Voice Podcast, Belinda is joined by Shakaia Powell, a Level 3 Beauty learner from Coleg Gwent – Crosskeys Campus, who is already making waves in the industry.
With a Welsh Skills Bronze Medal and a WorldSkills Silver Medal to her name, Shakaia shares her journey from leaving sixth form to finding her confidence, passion, and purpose in beauty education. This conversation explores mindset, resilience, high standards, and what it really takes to succeed as a learner — both inside and outside the classroom.
We also proudly acknowledge Pivot Point, a global leader in digital learning and education development for the hair and beauty industry, whose ethical values, innovation, and global vision continue to shape the future of beauty education.
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🌍 About Our Partner: Pivot Point
Pivot Point is the driving force worldwide behind digital learning, education development, and premium educational tools for the hair and beauty industry. With a strong commitment to ethical manufacturing and social accountability, Pivot Point leads with integrity, innovation, and a learner-first mindset.
Yorkshire Hair & Barbering Compitition
Episode 13
Monday, January 5, 2026 • Duration 01:12:00
🎙️ The Learner’s Voice Podcast
Live from Leeds City College – The First Yorkshire Hair & Barbering Competition
In this special on-location episode of The Learner’s Voice, we are recording live at Leeds City College, the venue for the first-ever Yorkshire Hair and Barbering Competition, bringing seven colleges together in a powerful celebration of education, talent, and learner voice.
This landmark event creates a platform for learners to step outside the classroom, showcase their skills, and build confidence through competition, collaboration, and community.
🌍 Episode Sponsor
Pivot Point
Pivot Point is a global leader in digital learning, education development, and premium mannequins for the hair and beauty industry. Through ethical manufacturing and strong social accountability standards, Pivot Point continues to shape the future of beauty education worldwide.
We’re proud to partner with a company driven by innovation, integrity, and a global vision for learning.
✂️ What You’ll Hear in This Episode
🎓 Learners from seven colleges across Yorkshire sharing their real journeys
🏆 First-time competitors experiencing a live competition environment
💭 Honest conversations about confidence, nerves, comparison, patience, and pressure
🧠 How mindset education supports learner growth alongside technical skill
🙌 Shout-outs to tutors, mentors, and colleges championing learner success
Learners Live at Salon International: Inspiration from Across the UK
Episode 12
Monday, December 1, 2025 • Duration 28:26
I had the absolute pleasure of diving into the world of hair and beauty learners at Salon International 2025, and I left feeling inspired by the passion, determination, and creativity of these amazing students. In this episode, I share my conversations with learners from across the UK, including Kali, Molly, Ruby, Sophie, Mia, Soda, Isabella, and Jess, as they candidly reflect on their journeys in hairdressing and beauty therapy.
Key Takeaways from This Episode:
I learned that embracing challenges with a positive mindset can transform struggles into growth. I discovered that patience, persistence, and self-belief are essential in learning new skills, whether it’s perfecting foils, mastering pedicures, or finding your own signature style in treatments. I was reminded that building confidence, making meaningful connections, and celebrating small wins are just as important as technical skills. Most importantly, I saw that every learner’s journey is unique, and showing up authentically and staying passionate makes all the difference.
Throughout our conversations, learners shared their highest highs—from the thrill of mastering a new technique, excelling in competitions, and finally feeling confident in their craft—to their lowest lows, which often included initial anxiety, challenging techniques, or self-doubt. Each learner had valuable advice for newcomers: take it slow, enjoy the process, embrace your individuality, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. Mentorship came up repeatedly as a cornerstone of success, with shout-outs to teachers and industry professionals who encouraged, guided, and inspired them along the way.
From discussions about building confidence, pursuing further education, exploring creative treatments, and even dreaming about opening their own salons, this episode highlights that learning is a journey, not a destination. The energy, enthusiasm, and dedication these learners bring to their craft is infectious and a reminder that the hair and beauty industry thrives on curiosity, innovation, and resilience.
Tune in to hear these inspiring stories, learn actionable tips, and celebrate the voices shaping the future of hair and beauty. Your journey matters, your voice matters, and this episode proves that the next generation of hair and beauty professionals is ready to shine.
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Key takeaway:
“Work hard, keep going and you’ll get there.”
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🌍 Hair Aid – Changing Lives Through Hairdressing
Discover the incredible work of Hair Aid, a charity using hairdressing education to create sustainable livelihoods around the world.
Learn how volunteer hairdressers teach cutting skills in disadvantaged communities, helping people build micro-businesses to support themselves and their families. You’ll also hear how colleges, educators and learners can become involved both locally and internationally.
Belinda Mindset and the Hair Aid team discuss how teaching others not only changes lives but also strengthens your own skills and confidence.
Key takeaway:
“Hairdressing is more than a career – it has the power to change lives.”
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🎨 Colour Me Safe – Modernising Patch Testing
Belinda Mindset sits down with Lisa from Colour Me Safe, an innovative brand dedicated to making patch testing safer, simpler and more accessible for both salons and clients.
They discuss:
* Why patch testing should be about caring for clients, not simply meeting regulations.
* Why skin sensitivities are becoming more common.
* How medications, lifestyle changes and allergies can affect colour services.
* Why modern technology is improving the patch testing journey.
* The importance of following manufacturers’ guidance and involving clients in their own safety.
This fascinating conversation highlights why professional consultation and client care remain at the heart of great hairdressing.
Key takeaway:
“A patch test isn’t just about compliance – it’s about protecting your client.”
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Episode Highlights
* Why apprentices shouldn’t compare themselves to others.
* Learning from every stylist you work with.
* Overcoming setbacks and building confidence.
* Hairdressing as a tool to create opportunity around the world.
* How education can transform communities.
* Why modern patch testing matters.
* The future of client safety in colour services.
* Supporting learners through education, kindness and mentorship.
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Featured Guests
* Frankie – Apprentice, Rock Paper Scissors Hair Studio, Geelong, Victoria
* Apprentice Guest – Sharing their journey of overcoming dermatitis
* Hair Aid
* Lisa – Founder of Colour Me Safe
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Sponsored by
This episode is proudly supported by Colour Me Safe, helping salons modernise the patch testing process while putting client safety at the heart of every colour service.
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Connect with Belinda Mindset
If you’re a learner, educator or salon owner looking for practical education, motivation and industry support, connect with Belinda Mindset.
Follow, subscribe and share The Learners Voice podcast to help celebrate and support the next generation of hair professionals.
Because every learner has a voice—and every journey deserves to be heard.
Mindset Mental health first aid Behaviour management and support strategies
* The confidence gained from competing on stage.
* Advice for learners: “Just do it. If you don’t try, you’ll never know.”
* Future ambitions to own her own salon while continuing creative and session work.
Freya Field
* Growing up inspired by a family friend working in the industry.
* Using college as a fresh start after experiencing bullying at school.
* Why she waited until Level 3 before entering competitions.
* Winning both the Art Deco category and the Overall Concept Hair 2026 title.
* How experimentation, practice and creativity led to her award-winning look.
* Managing self-doubt after major success and finding new motivation.
* Building a professional profile and networking within the industry.
* Advice for learners: Keep pushing yourself, listen to those who believe in you, and don’t let fear of failure stop you.
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Key Takeaways
* Creativity grows through experimentation and persistence.
* Competitions build confidence as much as technical skill.
* Self-belief develops by taking opportunities—even when they feel daunting.
* Great educators and mentors can change the course of a learner’s career.
* Success isn’t about being fearless—it’s about moving forward despite uncertainty.
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Thank You to Our Sponsors
Pivot Point
A global leader in digital learning and education for the hair and beauty industry. Pivot Point continues to shape the future of beauty education through innovation, premium educational resources, and a commitment to ethical manufacturing and social responsibility.
Color Me Safe
Changing the future of allergy testing with a smarter, safer and simpler patch-testing system that uses the actual colour product being applied. Fully UK compliant, insured, and designed to improve client safety while saving valuable salon time.
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Special Thanks
A special thank you to:
* Concept Hair for creating opportunities that showcase emerging talent.
* The lecturers and mentors who continue to inspire the next generation, including Suzanne Muggleton, Joanne DeWitt, and Karen Baldwin.
* All the learners who continue to share their stories and inspire others.
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The Learners Voice Podcast is proudly produced in collaboration with Belinda Mindset, Education and Concept Hair.
Your voice matters. Your journey matters. Keep learning, keep creating, and keep believing in what’s possible.
One learner opens up about struggling in school due to bullying and how discovering salon life helped rebuild confidence and communication skills. The discussion also highlights the importance of speaking out and finding supportive environments within education and industry.
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International Learner Journey
A Ukrainian learner shares her inspiring story of moving to the UK to study prosthetics, makeup and special effects. Despite language barriers, she explains how creativity, determination and support from tutors helped her thrive in competitions and develop her artistic identity.
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Thinking Outside the Box in Competitions
From dramatic special effects makeup to unconventional “Day at the Races” looks, learners discuss the importance of originality, mood boards, research and developing personal style rather than copying trends.
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The Reality of Salon Ownership
Conversations explore the dream of owning a salon and the realities behind it, including:
Leadership
Business knowledge
Team culture
Client communication
Time management
Financial awareness
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Representation & Inclusivity in Beauty
One standout discussion focuses on creativity and inclusivity in makeup artistry, including challenging traditional bridal expectations and encouraging learners to express individuality without fear of judgement.
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Belinda Mindset Spotlight
Throughout the episode, learners and educators discuss the impact of Belinda Mindset motivational learning cards and mindset resources within education settings.
Topics include:
Supporting learner confidence
Encouraging communication
Independent reflection
Emotional wellbeing
Mindset development
Supporting learners with additional challenges
Inclusivity through bilingual Welsh/English learning resources
Educators share real stories about how Belinda Mindset resources helped learners feel seen, supported and empowered within the classroom.
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Key Themes From This Episode
Confidence through creativity
The power of supportive educators
Mental health awareness in education
Competition as personal growth
Finding your tribe in the hair & beauty industry
Creativity without limits
Industry networking and opportunity
Mindset and motivation for learners
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Sponsor Mentions
Pivot Point
Global leaders in digital learning, mannequins and education development for the hair and beauty industry.
“If you’re not making mistakes, you’re not making progress.”
“Don’t copy inspiration — make it your own.”
“Competitions build confidence far beyond the competition floor.”
“The industry can change lives when learners feel supported.”
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Follow & Connect
To learn more about Belinda Mindset, educational mindset resources and learner support tools for the hair & beauty industry, follow the ongoing conversations from The Learners Voice Podcast.
Overcoming struggles with school, mental health, and confidence
Finding purpose and passion through hair and beauty
The impact of supportive lecturers and mentors
🎨 Creativity & self-expression
Why the industry allows learners to truly be themselves
Embracing individuality and attracting your “tribe”
The freedom of a creative career
🏆 Competition experiences
What it feels like to compete at a national level
Nerves, mindset, and preparation tips
Why just reaching the finals is already a huge achievement
🧠 Mindset & personal growth
Learning to manage nerves and self-doubt
The importance of self-belief and resilience
Tools and techniques to stay calm under pressure
🌍 Career dreams & opportunities
From salon floors to cruise ships and global travel
Starting businesses, building brands, and teaching
The endless possibilities within the industry
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🔑 Key Takeaways
Don’t give up—even when things feel tough, keep showing up
Be yourself—your uniqueness is your strength
Practice builds confidence—growth comes with consistency
Find your people—supportive environments change everything
Mindset matters—how you think shapes how you perform
You belong here—if you made it this far, you’ve earned it
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💬 Memorable Moments
Learners opening up about mental health and finding confidence through hairdressing
A female barber breaking stereotypes and pursuing purpose-driven work
A returning winner sharing how competitions opened doors to major opportunities
Adult learners proving it’s never too late to follow your passion
Emotional reflections on family support, self-belief, and growth
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🌟 About This Series
The Learners Voice Podcast is all about amplifying real voices in the hair and beauty industry—sharing authentic stories from learners at every stage of their journey.
In collaboration with Belinda Mindset, this podcast supports personal growth, confidence, and success through mindset, education, and community.
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💻 Resources & Support
If you’re a mentor, educator, or salon owner looking to support your learners:
👉 Visit Belindamindset.com
Scroll to the bottom of the store page to access free resources designed to help your team grow, thrive, and succeed.
Passionate about developing the next generation of hair professionals
Caitlin Joyce
Level 3 student at The Manchester College
Aspiring hair professional with a passion for learning and growth
Known for her positivity, confidence, and strong client connection
💬 Key Takeaways
“Never accept ‘OK’ as a standard.” – Andrew Barton
Confidence grows through action—not perfection
Mistakes are part of mastering your craft
A positive mindset can transform your learning experience
Being proactive and asking for opportunities is key to success
🚀 Caitlin’s Career Goals
Gain salon experience after qualification
Explore working on cruise ships
Long-term ambition: specialise in trichology
🙌 Shoutouts
Special thanks to Caitlin’s tutors:
Lisa Breakey
Lindsay Carroll
Emma Gavin
🤝 Sponsors
Pivot Point
A global leader in hair and beauty education, providing innovative digital learning tools, premium mannequins, and industry-leading resources—all built with ethical and sustainable practices.
Colour Me Safe
Smarter, safer, and simpler patch testing for hair professionals.
Colour Me Safe is transforming allergy testing with an innovative method that allows you to test using the actual colour product being applied—delivering more accurate results and real peace of mind.
Fully UK compliant
Insured and salon-friendly
Designed to save time without compromising safety
Join the movement setting a new standard in client care: ColourMeSafe.com
Visit BelindaMindset.com and explore free tools and resources available for mentors, educators, and salon owners.
💬 Final Thoughts
This episode is a powerful reminder that success in the hair industry isn’t just about skill—it’s about mindset, mentorship, and the courage to keep improving.
Your voice matters. Your journey matters.
Speaker 2: Yeah, and other people have said to me, they've noticed it as well. When I went back, everyone's like, you seem so different. It was like, oh, I don't realise it, but when someone points out to you, you finally realise, like, gosh, I have changed. But yeah.
Speaker 1: Yeah. So what can be really helpful is if we do a bit of a brain dump of all every little thing that triggers that kind of stress and then we can look at what we can control and what we can't control. So I can kind of help you because sometimes just talking it through and having a few tools of how you would manage it can really help. So how are you coping right now on the shop floor? Do you still feel overwhelmed?
Speaker 2: Yeah, I think it's just like the pressure of being on a strict regime because I've been at college for four years now. It's quite chilled. Like my college is very chilled.
They'll be like, yeah, do this. But some days it can be like boom, boom, boom. It's like it's so different. Like when people say like you don't experience hedges until you go to salon, I get it now. I really do. So how long do you get for some lunch? 45 minutes.
Speaker 1: OK. And then like what, an hour 15, hour 30 for followed foils? Yeah, hour 15. Hour 15. Do you get a lunch break? Yeah. Yeah. Is it an hour, half an hour? Half an hour. Is that it for the whole day? Yeah. And then do you sometimes use that half hour to catch up?
Speaker 2: Oh, yeah, normally I have to catch up. But like on my lunch break, I am normally doing like social media because that's the thing we have to do. I think the big thing nowadays, social media is like how you get clients. So yeah, sometimes I'm doing that.
Speaker 1: My lunch break. Taking a break. I don't. No.
Speaker 2: And then I go home and I go to bed. I literally go home, go to bed and then I'm up again and then I go straight to work. Like I don't have like. Just relax. I just come home. I'm so tired.
I was just fed. It's not like I have. I do have a social life, but it's not as big as it was before I started working.
And I know that's the thing that happens when you get older and all that. The one person I do speak to is the apprentice. And that's because I think we're on the same kind of wavelength because she's just started college and I'm helping her with it because I've been doing so long now at college. I kind of know the structure of what they've got to do. So she's always like, what's this?
What's this? So I've bonded in that way, but with the older ones, like I'm the youngest person by one of the youngest in the salon now. It's hard to like connect to the older stylists.
Is it's like what do you act like? I don't know what to say. Same with clients like I keep getting this. They keep saying to me like my work. They're like, you're just not talking to them as much as you could.
The thing is I struggle to know what to talk about. So I say the same thing like Christmas time. It was fine. All I could say was what you do for Christmas. But now I've just gotten to clue what to say.
And some of them just they don't like give you like they got you. It was good. And that's it. Like they don't give you like to expand on if that makes sense. OK.
Speaker 1: So I can help you a little bit with that. So I think you need to take the pressure off yourself a little bit. You are lovely. I think a lot of the time we try we worry about what people think of us. Right. You have to know I know I'm lovely and they've got to bring their half as much as you've got to bring your half. OK. Yeah. So your job within that time when you've got them is not to have small talk.
It's to do a professional service and to advise and give as much information on the hair as possible. Now you say you enjoyed college. Yeah. So could you tell me about what shampoos do they use?
Speaker 2: They use Joico shampoos. Do you know the products? I know them kind of. I don't know them as detailed because at my college we're all L'Oreal. So that's this thing as well. I'm still trying to get to grip with colours and that kind of thing. So I think there's an attitude thing on to like.
Speaker 1: I want you to take one product a day and I want you to look at it and you need to know what it is, how it works or is it a pump, is it a spray? But what are the benefits of that?
So people want to hear the lovely words shiny, protected, like you want to say those words as much as possible. Yeah. Yeah. And maybe one ingredient. If you could pick up a product every day and really kind of get to know your products inside out. Have you read my card that says, don't assume what's in somebody's purse?
I have read the one. You're really going to get a lot out of my cards. All right. There's so many tips like that in there.
They're literally made for the stage that you are at right now. OK. And, you know, it actually gives you a list of what you should talk about in a service. OK, so we figured out so far, you bring your half of the relationship, they bring theirs. And that's the same with your team as well.
All right, family, friends, team. You've got to really have that trust in yourself. I know I'm a good person. If somebody asks me a question, I'll answer them.
Do you know what I mean? I'll engage in a great conversation. Don't worry too much. OK.
I think what's going to really help you with your clients is I want you to care more than anybody else about that client. Yeah. OK.
It's not our decision to decide if a client can or can't afford something. All right. Now, you spend your money on different things to what I would. Yeah. So in the past, I wanted the designer handbag, the designer watch.
Now I'm selling everything. I'd rather a holiday. Yeah. But let me tell you, if I love like mini products, you know, like I don't want it is about a mini product. But if I love it.
Yeah. The joy I get going into like Sephora or I love skincare right now, I'll spend a hundred pounds on like all the minis from that brand Skin Rocks. Like that was a treat for myself at Christmas. Christmas. The packaging, the excitement when it's coming or the bag where the product goes in. I mean, Joy is a stunning brand.
And it's not about. You can recommend, you know, selling, you're saying, this is what I'm using. This is what it does. That's not emotional. That's a fact, isn't it? This is a bottle. This is what it does. That's how you apply it. Put it in front of them. Maybe put a bit on their hands.
That's a really good tip. Let them smell it. And OK. And again, they might hold the product.
And then, you know, it's kind of like you've got let them get close to it, have things in front of them. Also offer more than one choice. So have maybe three, you know, like your heat protection, a styling product and a finishing product.
Yeah. Then they've got a choice of one of three or they might take all three. You can have a client, the same client for a whole year that never buys anything, but there's one day she'll come in, her husband's been a right. Right.
She's being paid and she's like, sod it. Right. People buy not just logically because I need that. Right.
Some people want all the information and they reason. Yeah. Right. And then other people just shoving in their bag, like, give me everything. I want everything because they want that quick fix to feel good.
So yeah, for two different reasons. I just want you to do your job. This is what it is.
This is what it does. I feel so lucky that you have those products on your shelf. Like, you work in such a beautiful space.
And nothing worse than being in a salon where there's no products to sell. No, yeah. All right.
So I need you to think like, and, you know, I do get you. I lived in a bed set on my own when I was 16, went into a salon, went on to cruise ships and it was five star. I shake people's hand, introduced my by my full name. You know what I mean? And it was a whole world. But the training was good and the products were beautiful. But what I did was I got this book called The One Minute Sales Person and I taught myself how to sell.
Now, when the penny drops, it's not sell a little. So head to toe you right now. There'll be something about yourself that bugs you or let's talk about hair. There'll be something about your hair that really bugs you. It's our job as a professional, I find that out. So I'll ask you questions, right? What are you using right now on your hair?
Speaker 2: L'Oreal, Vitamino. Is it shampoo, conditioner? It's both. OK, any other anything else?
Speaker 2: I use it in a lot. So, yeah, I've got like, I've got all that I have the mini stuff because I just find it's handy just to like have wherever you go. So is it a leave in?
Speaker 1: Yeah, it's a leave in one. A leave in conditioner or a styling product? A leave in conditioner. Do they sell that in your salon? No. OK, quick tip. Try and use products that are in your salon. OK, because you've got to believe in what you're selling. All right. I know I don't know how much discount you get and I know it's not the cheapest. But is there like a hero popular product in the salon?
Speaker 2: Yeah, I recommend it to all my clients and I've had like two buyer. It's called like this humidity blocker. And I know a lot about it because it's like the first product anyone said to me like, what is this for? And straight away, like someone said, oh, this is like the best product. Like all clients love it. And it just tells like if you it's like a finishing product and all you've got to do is spray on your hair and it goes with like of all the frizz that's there.
Yeah. And I think my first ever client there on my first day bought it. And I was quite shocked because all I said was I was really good for frizz. And she literally bought it straight away. I was like, OK, yeah, that's fine.
Speaker 1: So there's always going to be products that are easy. But you believe in it. Yeah, you've had proof of somebody else. And that's what you want to say to your clients. Honestly, this is on my first day, my first client, like everybody just honestly, everybody wants this. This is it every this is so popular. People. Yeah, it runs out every day. People want to hear that social proof. All right. Yeah. So how much are the products?
Speaker 2: I think that's around 17 pounds.
Speaker 1: That's not bad at all, actually. I sell 11 Australia. And that was kind of a budget brand. And they've gone up to nearly twenty two pounds now per product. Oh, honestly, 17 pounds is not.
It's really on the cheaper side. That's like, obviously, it's not your supermarket. But I want you to start going into shops, not Superdrag anymore. All right. I want you to just get your hands on as many professionals, not buy them, smell them, feel them, look at the packaging, the matching bag. I want you to fall in love with retail. All right.
And I want you. So what do you think you could? Is there sachets that you could take home from work? Is that what else could you ask to borrow something to try it?
Speaker 2: So we sometimes have like sessions where we can like play with the products and like do you like each other's blow dryers? Does that make sense? So like we put the product on our hair and then someone else will blow dry and that kind of thing because we also do treatments as well. And they were like, we want you to all experience it so you can actually sell it more. So I think if you don't know, like if you don't know how it feels yourself, then you can't really sell something.
Speaker 1: Yeah. So how are you telling treatments? Is that easy because you've tried it?
Speaker 2: I haven't tried them, but it's quite easy when someone goes, you think I need a treatment and I'll go, I think so. And I say, we do have time as well. And there's three different ones like one takes, actually like seven seconds and one takes 10 minutes and then one takes half an hour. So it's not like it's not long, long, if that makes sense. So it's like, I can just go, well, we've got something that's actually quite quick. And it still gives you the same effect, if that makes sense. I don't say that to them, but it does sort of give you the same shine that they want.
Yeah. Normally, if someone has a restyle, I normally say, or I might need to put a treatment on just because you knew how you really need to look after it. Because a lot of people are coming, they have quite like matted hair. That's why they're having to have the restyle done. So you're OK with treatments?
Speaker 1: Yeah, yeah. That's not a problem.
Speaker 2: No, I do think I have a lot of people say that's like, they're like, you can do it. It's just like, I don't know. It's like, I can say it, but like it's quite.
I don't know. I feel wrong for saying something like saying, oh, what about this product or this product? But I know I shouldn't because it's part of my job, but I still do. It's not that.
Speaker 1: It's not that it's part of your job. I want you to really, generally care. And you look at that hair and go, if that was my hair, that's what I'd use.
Yeah. If I didn't put heat protection on the straightener hair, it would burn it. I don't care about your hair that much. I want you to be that hairdresser that if they want a big bleach job and the hair is not strong enough, that you don't want to just be the nice person that says I could push it. I want you to go.
You need to take your treatments home. Yeah. In six months time, we'll do a few cuts. Then be ready. People want to feel from you. And I think you want to be this person as well, because you know how you were saying you don't want to feel just salesy. Yeah. You need to be true to yourself, right? OK.
It really helps me a lot. I always think, what would I do to my own hair? I wouldn't do it at anybody else's, OK? That can go a bit awry with a hairdresser sometimes because we might push our own hair more than others, but as a rule, right? Yeah.
I want you to generally care and be so truthful and honest, even if it's because it's okay to say no. Yeah. Yeah. I want you to get that level of trust and respect off your client, that when you pick up a product and you tell them this will really benefit you, you've paid it, you know what it does and you mean it. And now let's take a moment for our sponsor. Welcome to Colour Me Safe, smarter, safer, simpler patch testing for hair professionals. Colour Me Safe is changing the way allergy testing is done with the first of its kind method that lets you test using the actual product you will apply, giving accurate results and real peace of mind. Fully UK compliant, insured and designed to save time without compromising safety. Join the movement, setting a new standard in client care.
Visit ColourMeSafe.com. I've had a salon for 20 years and we weren't in the city centre or on the outside and honestly it's a stunning salon. When I, because I'd worked on cruise ships, I wanted it to have that, I wanted people that feel special in an environment and I didn't listen to anybody else just because I was in the city centre.
Why couldn't I have that? Yeah. It's always about like the experience. So how can you care more than anybody else by learning what you've got and it's okay if you don't like a product, don't sell it. All right. I mean, there are times where people say because you don't like it doesn't mean somebody else won't like it. But when you get to know your products, you know when you get something good.
All right. People really respect that. Honestly. I mean, don't get me wrong.
Your salon manager might say slightly different. All right. Yeah. But as a rule, it's okay to say this is better. This would suit you better.
Yeah. So even if you could take a few little, you don't get the little jars and you can fill the products. Why don't you have a word to your manager and say I really think it'll help if I get a bit more hands on with the products. Can I just take a few? If you've got any samples or can I take? Yeah. Really hard on learning these products because I think it's going to help on your conversation. Howard Press do things should be.
Speaker 2: Yeah. She would because we have like staff meetings about that. She was like, you need to like see more like confident. See, it's not like, it's not a bad time not because I can talk. It's just like someone from my clients just sit there. They don't really want to talk.
And that's fine. But then it's like, oh, but I've been told I have to say something. And then I have some people, it's really easy to talk to like some clients come in, they can talk to me for the whole time. It's like two hours. Absolutely fine. But I have some that just sit there and they don't want to talk.
Speaker 1: But as you, you're reading their body language and that's absolutely fine. Okay. What you can do is tell them what you put on and why. You're not asking them to give you anything. Yeah, that's you bringing your half. Yeah. And so you're not annoying them and even like educating them about the color that you're putting on. There's a reason for everything that you do. Sometimes they like to know. Do you know what I mean? Yeah.
I'm applying this color here because do you know what I mean? Yeah. Don't get me wrong. Sometimes clients can, sometimes you bring their attention to something and they're like, all of a sudden they're really looking like, do you know what I mean? Yeah. Give me an example. It's a minefield work of a customer's, right?
Yeah. You will gain experience every single day. Don't be too hard on yourself. Okay. But when you feel like you don't know what to talk about, bring it back to being professional. Yeah.
So when you leave the staff room, just think professional. Yeah. I'm going to do it their time and I'm going to care the most and I'm going to learn all this stuff and I'm going to tell them what would be good for them. The rest of it is their choice.
Yeah. If you did want to get a bit more confident with sales, you can put the things out. You know, remind them, this is what I used on you to do. You normally get an inkling if they like something. Say you've done your bit and then you've had a chat and then you want to come back round because once they're out of the chair, you sometimes lost it. I want you to try this.
It might feel a bit uncomfortable, but saying, would you like to take one of those today? Yeah. That's called closing a sale and you might want to work up to that. So maybe start with get to know the products so you want to learn what the benefits are, which was all the nice words. Yeah. And maybe one ingredient because that'll make you sound fancy.
Yeah. And how to apply it. Let them touch it, smell it. And yeah, and just have fun with it. Like, do you know what I mean? Because I want you to fall in love with products. Yeah.
Start to see the difference on your own hair and try and treat yourself and like start to use because you want to become the shopper that you want your. Yeah. What your clients to be. Is that being helpful? Yes, thank you. It's all right. Now, is there a salon closer to where you live?
Speaker 2: I've been like a few because I didn't want to first started out. I didn't know what kind of salon I really wanted to be in. My dream is to work on a cruise ship.
Like I've always wanted to do it since I was a child. I said, I want to work on a cruise ship. I also would love to work on the West End. Like that is my it's my kind of thing. I don't want to be like a normal hairdresser.
Speaker 1: That makes sense. I want to do something different.
Speaker 2: Like I do I do a lot of competition still. And it's like, I don't know if I want to do something. I don't know what I had to say it really. But I have seen like a few like kind of I have been to a few kind of salons where it's kind of very laid back. And that's it's not that's not for me.
Speaker 1: I don't think that's to be honest with you. As soon as you said I want to go on cruise ships, the sound you're in right now is where you should be. Really? Yeah. OK. All right. And you need to have a bit of an identity shift, whereas like.
You you are worthy of being in that space. OK. And they're not better than you. They're human. Yeah. They're more professional.
Are they more knowledgeable? If you feel uncomfortable in that way. You need to be in a room where you're not the cleverest in the room.
Because you want to be a different level of you. Yeah. Does that make sense? Now, whenever you take that jump on the shop floor, no matter what salon you're in, right? Yeah. It's it's off a cliff.
It's so it's fast paced. You don't know all the clients. You don't know what colour every single consultation feels like hard. Yeah. If you, as you say, you haven't settled in yet. OK. But yeah, you get your regulars. Yeah. Yeah. Obviously, you want to change it up and recommend things. But it is nice to go.
She's an 80. I'm just going to mix it. You know what I mean, all right? Yeah. Like. But that's fine. It will get easier. How long have you been there?
Speaker 2: Since sorry. Since December, like the start of December. OK.
Speaker 1: Yeah. This time, like December. Twenty twenty six. You were going to be a short hairdresser. You were going to feel like I'm getting a grip. So this. Yeah. All right. Because as you said, you've done training and you know what you're doing. But it that year on the shop floor, it's the hardest year of your life as a hairdresser. OK. And if you want to be on ships, I'm the standard of hairdressing where you are. Just from what you've told me and I know, Michelle. And is there training opportunities there?
Speaker 2: Yeah, I'm going next next Monday to Redin to do a blow dry course with Lacy's.
Speaker 1: OK. Amazing. You are exactly where you're meant to be. OK. All right. And I think sometimes we need to hear that. Yeah. Now, it's so weird that we've had this conversation.
So the recruiter of cruise ships is a friend of mine. She lived in the time in the northeast. She only lives 45 minutes. From me, she does all her interviews online now. OK. You can I can send you on Instagram her page.
Her name's Janine. OK. OK. You can apply six months before you actually want to go. OK. You can do the interview process, get the job.
Now, this year on the shop floor is really important for you because that's where you're going to gain your speed, your confidence. Yeah. Knowledge blow drying, like, because that's what you do.
Seventy five percent of the time ship. Yeah. Hair up blow drying. You have your you don't have an apprentice. You have to do all the shampooing yourself. Yeah. But retail, you are one step ahead if you can get a grip for that. OK. All right.
Because that is high pressure and expected. There's no if, buts or maybes. You've got to get it. You've got to hit them. It is an emotional roller coaster. But like I said, if you get a good relationship with it, once it clicks, they've got to need what I'm putting on. Yeah. You'll be fine. So I'll send you the details for her so you know exactly what you want to do. And have you got any more questions for me?
Speaker 2: I definitely think so, no. But yeah, it's been really nice to talk because my best friends obviously have spoken to you and my other friends spoken to you. So it's like kind of like being able to speak to you as well. So it's like, I kind of know what they're saying now to me when they're like, I was a little bit like, OK, and then they've been on your podcast as well. So it's really nice to like see kind of what they're saying. Like it's really helpful to like get to grips of what like because I was like the other day I just like I was really down with myself on whether hairdressing was for me.
And I thought, I don't know what else I'd do, though. Like that's the thing because you spend so many years at college. Like when I first left college, I'd no clue. I was like, I don't know what I want to do, but my sister was a hairdresser. So I was like, oh, maybe I'll do that then. And then I just I went into makeup because I was like it's hairdressing and makeup. So I guess if I find something there, yeah, that could help. So then I went into the hair part.
Speaker 1: Full time work is hard. And you need to be a bit kind to yourself. You don't have to make any harsh decisions. But I do think putting your head down and investing all of your energy into training this year, see how you feel after Christmas. Yeah, yeah, you're right. There are different salons and different. But you've already answered your question. Yeah. And it's you should be proud to say that. I've got standards. Yeah. Yeah.
And and ships is the biggest standard you'll ever go on. Yeah, you don't complain about a client. You don't complain tired. There's no no time for that.
So if you think where you are now is hard. Yeah. And I'm not putting you off. I'm just that it's excellence. You know, whereas where you are now, you probably can is probably more relaxed than you think compared to that.
Speaker 2: Yeah, I have. I do know. I know some people have been on cruise ships, but not doing hairdressing, doing other things. And they're like, is very boom, boom. You like there's no like way for error. You have to be kind of the best of the best to do it. And I was like, it's good to know, because like I've never met anyone like that does hairdressing. So it's nice to have a conversation with someone that's done that kind of thing. Because like my mum says to me like, how do you know you're going to like it? And I was like, I don't. But I don't know anyone else that's done hairdressing on a cruise ship. But I've always said I want to be a bit different. I don't I want to be a bit different in life. Like that's kind of my goal to do. Well, one tip I would
Speaker 1: give you is would you write to somebody or like go in their DMs and Instagram and say, look, if you ever need anyone to assist, I would love to join you.
Speaker 2: Yeah, I was. So the thing is I was going to I've done a did a fashion show for my friend. And then she was like, why don't you try London Fashion Week?
And I know Janine, she comes to our college all the time and she was looking for someone. But it's just because I would do it. I definitely would. But I always work the days they need someone to do it. And I can't just be like, oh, no, I can't come into work today. So that's that's the barrier there. So if I wasn't. So when is London Fashion Week? I know it's in February sometime. Because it's the other day in. So the thing is.
Speaker 1: And you were you were allowed to take days off or doesn't have to be full weeks?
Speaker 2: It can be days off. And it's just like I don't know. It's kind of you have to put it in like a couple of months in advance. And no one told me to like a couple of weeks ago that it was on. So I would definitely do it because the hustle and bustle is I think I do work a lot better under the pressure. Like everyone at my college says Erin works so much better under pressure. If someone puts a time limit on me, I'm trying to get there as soon as possible. Because I feel like if you don't have any anything, I'm just like chilling. Well, I'll just take my time. But if someone goes, no, you need to in this time, I'll do it.
That's the thing like competition wise. You've got 45 minutes of cake or do it. And then I've done it in less than that. It's just like I don't know what it is. I think it's because like people stare at you as well. They're like, Sarah, I know what you're doing.
Oh, my God, can't make any mistakes quick. And I have other clients complain that they're sat there for too long. And it's just like, I don't I don't really know what to say when someone goes, I've been sat here for so long because that's the. You say I'm worth it. Is this just like you go?
Speaker 1: I'll try to be quick next time, but I'm worth it. And one client said to me the other day, she went, I was just about to say your cheeky you.
And then she went, I realized you are. You've got to have like. It's you've got to be professional, but lighten up a little bit as well. Like you've just got to be how would your mom feel? Do you mean like what would you do?
Mom or your grandma? You'd be like, and do you want another cup? But little things I do with my clients, like, you know, if a magazine comes through the post, I open it. I look who's having their color done and go, do you want the new magazine?
I get excited for them to sit there with the new magazine. That's what I mean. Like if you care about your clients on that level, they won't. They won't win. OK, yeah. Yeah, care the most and you can't lose. And. Let's see what time is it.
How long have I kept you talking? Yeah, crap. And. You're going to be fine. I think don't be hard on yourself. Look at this year as it's OK to make mistakes. OK. Care the most, learn your products and just put your head down, work hard.
And honestly, this time next year, everything will feel way easier, I promise. OK. You can message me anytime. You can't ask me like ask me as many questions as you like. I don't mind. I love to help.
So you're never going to annoy me. If you're having a day where it just feels really hard, just message. OK. OK, thank you. You're welcome. Right, good luck. Thank you for your time. Bye. Thank you for listening to today's episode of The Learner's Voice, our collaboration with Blindermindset Education and Concept Hair.
Your voice matters and you matter. And we really want you to thrive on your journey. If you are a mentor or Salad owner and you want to support your learners, go to Blindermindset.com. Scroll right down to the bottom of the store page and you can access loads of free resources that you can use with your teams and learners today.
Training your model as part of your success strategy
Dealing with grief, loss, and emotional resilience as a learner
Finding motivation through purpose and perseverance
Why it’s okay not to have everything figured out
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🏆 Competition & Excellence Takeaways
Shakaia shares practical, real-world advice for learners aiming to raise their standards:
Prepare exactly how you plan to perform on the day
Pre-roll, prep, and organise everything in advance
Practice under timed conditions
Learn to improvise when things go wrong
Treat competitions like a performance — intentional, focused, and confident
Client care and model training are non-negotiable
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❤️ A Powerful Conversation on Resilience
Shakaia opens up about personal loss and grief, sharing how she channels pain into motivation rather than stopping. Her honesty offers reassurance to learners navigating emotional challenges alongside their education — a reminder that strength looks different for everyone.
⸻
🌱 What’s Next for Shakaia?
Completing Level 3 Beauty this summer
Progressing to Level 4
Aspiring to work in a spa environment
Continuing to grow as a professional with high personal standards
⸻
📣 Shoutouts
Kirsty Jones, lecturer and mentor, for believing, pushing, and inspiring
A loyal competition model who played a key role in success
All learners who are showing up, trying again, and trusting their journey
⸻
🎧 Final Thoughts
This episode is a reminder that:
You don’t need to have everything figured out
Mistakes don’t define you — standards do
The journey shapes who you become
Your voice matters, and you matter
⸻
🔗 Support for Learners
If you’re navigating grief or emotional challenges, Belinda has created a free reflective booklet available at Belindamindset.com — designed to help you find the words that match how you’re feeling.
⸻
💛 Thank You for Listening
Thank you for listening to The Learner’s Voice Podcast, in collaboration with Belinda Mindset Education and Concept Hair.
If you’re a mentor, educator, or salon owner and want to better support learners, visit blendomindset.com and explore the resources available in the store.
✨ Your voice matters. Your journey matters. And you deserve to thrive
🌱 Stories of finding passion, changing direction, and trusting the process
🚀 Big goals including apprenticeships, self-employment, salons, and brand careers
🧠 Mindset Meets Industry
This episode highlights why mindset, self-awareness, and resilience are just as important as scissors and clippers.
Learners openly reflect on how patience, belief, and the right support systems help them move forward — especially in high-pressure environments like competitions.
🤝 Supported By
Belinda Mindset Education – Supporting learners and educators through mindset-focused education and industry-ready resources
Concept Hair – Proudly supporting education and future talent within the hair and barbering industry
🧪 Additional Sponsor Feature
Colour Me Safe
Colour Me Safe is redefining patch testing for hair professionals with safer, smarter methods that use the actual product applied to the client. Fully UK compliant, insured, and designed to save time without compromising safety.
Visit ColourMeSafe.com to learn more.
🎧 Who This Episode Is For
Hair and barbering learners
Tutors, lecturers, and educators
Salon owners and employers
Anyone considering a career in hair or barbering
Those who believe confidence and growth start with mindset
💡 Final Message
Your voice matters.
Your journey matters.
And wherever you’re starting from — you belong here.
If you’re a mentor, educator, or salon owner and want to support learners, visit
👉 BelindaMindset.com and scroll to the bottom of the store page to access free mindset resources you can use with your teams today.
🎙️ Thank you for listening to The Learner’s Voice Podcast.
Celebrating learners. Building confidence. Creating opportunity
