What happens when you press play on your very first podcast episode two years later?

In this special episode, Samara and Jen go back to where it all began. Episode 1 of Salon Rising: The Podcast. What started as two best friends sharing insights about business, life, and salon ownership has since grown into a platform of connection, community, and real conversations.

Listening back, some things made us cringe, but what stood out most was how much has changed, in business, in life, and in who we are today.

We revisit the lessons, the laughs, and the raw truths of that first conversation, and share how our purpose has evolved, what’s stayed the same, and why this podcast still lights us up.

💡 In this episode, you’ll hear:

• The biggest shifts in our lives and businesses since Episode 1
• How our philosophies on business and life have evolved
• The power of speaking from scars, not wounds
• Why community, connection, and storytelling are still at the heart of Salon Rising
• What we’ve learned about impact, growth, and building a life (not just a business)

This isn’t just a reintroduction, it’s proof that growth is constant, change is inevitable, and your story will always keep unfolding.

Mentioned in this episode:

Timely

Rising Finances Online

Choosing a colour brand isn’t just about tubes of tint, it’s one of the biggest financial and cultural decisions you’ll make as a salon owner. In this mini moment, Jen sits down with the incredible Monique McMahon, salon owner and Wella Colour Ambassador, to unpack how to make the right choice for your business and your team.

Monique shares why opportunities should be at the top of your list, how to negotiate with brands, and what she looks for to ensure her team thrives in and out of the salon.

💡 In this episode, you’ll learn:

• Why your colour brand choice is about more than cost
• The opportunities top brands can offer your team (education, Fashion Week, editorial, social media)
• The two non negotiable questions to ask when choosing a brand
• How to align your salon values with the right partner
• Why “don’t ask, don’t get” is the motto for negotiating with colour companies

If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the sea of colour brands, this chat will give you clarity, confidence, and the courage to ask for what you and your team really need.

Timestamps

00:00 Introducing Monique McMahon

00:33 Choosing the Right Colour Brand

01:45 Opportunities with Colour Brands

03:09 The Importance of Asking for Opportunities

07:45 Monique's Role and Experience

09:40 Tips for Salon Owners

Mentioned in this episode:

💛 A HUGE Thank You to Our Podcast Sponsors - Timely

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

➡ Enjoy a 14 day free trial to see how Timely can transform your salon.

➡ 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.

Use the code SALONRISING at checkout or click the link below to to claim the offer. 👇

Timely

Take Control of Your Salon Finances with Rising Finances Online

Running a salon with a team is exciting, but the money side can feel overwhelming. Tax, wages, cash flow, and pricing often leave owners stressed and second guessing.

That’s why we created Rising Finances Online, the step by step program that takes the guesswork out of salon finances.

Inside RFO, you’ll discover how to find your bottom dollar, price with confidence, stay on top of tax, and build lasting profit into your business. Practical, simple, and made for the real world of salon ownership.

Click below to Join Today 👇

Rising Finances Online

What does true success in the beauty industry look like? And how do you stay authentic while building it?

In this inspiring episode, Jen sits down with Jeanette, General Manager of Beauty Wholesaler, Salon First, who has spent 27 years growing, adapting, and thriving alongside the ever changing beauty industry.

From the days of “Back Scratches” in 1989 to leading one of Australia’s most trusted distributors today, Jeanette shares the lessons that only time, resilience, and authenticity can teach.

💡 In this episode, you’ll learn:

• Why authenticity is the foundation of long-term success
• How the beauty industry has evolved over nearly three decades
• Lessons in leadership, team culture, and staying adaptable
• The real numbers every salon owner needs to know (and why numbers don’t lie)
• Why niching down and knowing your value will always win

This conversation is packed with wisdom, perspective, and practical advice for salon owners who want to grow not just a business, but a career built on authenticity.

Timestamps

00:00 Episode Summary

01:03 Welcome to the Inner Sanctum

05:17 Trends in the Beauty Industry

06:01 The Rise of Lash and Brow Services

06:28 Skin Care Innovations

14:52 Navigating Business Challenges

24:05 Digital Transformation in Beauty

26:59 Industry Experience and Consistency

27:42 Digital Growth and Social Proof

29:05 Partnerships and Collaborations

32:11 Niche Markets and Community Building

35:11 Balancing Work and Personal Life

37:36 The Importance of Numbers

41:02 Choosing the Right Partnerships

45:44 Trade Shows and Industry Events

52:43 Final Thoughts and Takeaways

Mentioned in this episode:

Rising Finances Online

Timely

💛 A HUGE Thank You to Our Podcast Sponsors - Timely

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

➡ Enjoy a 14 day free trial to see how Timely can transform your salon.

➡ 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.

Use the code SALONRISING at checkout or click the link below to to claim the offer. 👇

Timely

Take Control of Your Salon Finances with Rising Finances Online

Running a salon with a team is exciting, but the money side can feel overwhelming. Tax, wages, cash flow, and pricing often leave owners stressed and second guessing.

That’s why we created Rising Finances Online, the step by step program that takes the guesswork out of salon finances.

Inside RFO, you’ll discover how to find your bottom dollar, price with confidence, stay on top of tax, and build lasting profit into your business. Practical, simple, and made for the real world of salon ownership.

Click below to Join Today 👇

Rising Finances Online