Episodes

Oct 28, 2024
Oct 28, 2024
1hr 15 sec
[300] For many, hair loss due to chemotherapy is one of the most feared and traumatic side effects. Shockingly, according to HairToStay, 8% of women will decline potentially life-saving chemotherapy because of their fear of losing their hair.
HairToStay is dedicated to changing that. As the first and only national (US) nonprofit organization dedicated to helping low-income cancer patients afford scalp cooling as well as subsidizing the treatment, HairToStay helps raise awareness, offer information and support patients considering the use of scalp cooling to prevent chemo-induced hair loss. And now, they’re turning up the volume on awareness with a series of exciting events for their scalp cooling subsidy program. From salons and haircare brands to everyday supporters, they’re counting on the entire community to rally behind this life-changing cause.
Guests: Sydney Berry, Stacey Soble, Gayle Fulbright, Bethany Hornthal, Noah Warren, Sheri Rearick
Links:
Learn more about HairToStay: https://hairtostay.org/
Learn more about Gayle Fulbright and Headlines the Salon: https://www.headlinesthesalon.com/
Salon Today, Business Ideas for Salon Owners & Managers: https://www.salontoday.com/
Click here to subscribe to the PhorestFM email newsletter: https://bit.ly/3WvQiI7
This episode was edited and mixed by Audio Z: Montreal's cutting-edge post-production studio for creative minds looking to have their vision professionally produced and mixed. Great music makes great moments.
Leave a Rating & Review: http://bit.ly/phorestfm
Read the transcript, or click here to learn more about Phorest Salon Software.

Sep 29, 2024
Sep 29, 2024
39 min
[297] Drawing from themes already being discussed at the Salon Owners Summit nearly eight years ago, this part-catch-up-part-rerun episode explores the rise of micromanagement and what we can do about it.
Reconnecting with Valerie Delforge (International Business Strategy Consultant & Author) on the podcast for the first time since 2017, we spend this first part of the conversation defining micromanagement, exploring the psychological aspects of controlling behaviors and reflecting on the pandemic's impacts on salon management, all the while sprinkling in personal stories and anecdotes.
Parts of this conversation were originally released in December 2016 and October 2017 as part of Season 1.
Links:
Learn more about The Delforge Group
Purchase Valerie Delforge's Book, "I'd Rather Do It Myself: From Micromanagement to Leadership"
Click here to subscribe to the PhorestFM email newsletter: https://bit.ly/3WvQiI7
This episode was edited and mixed by Audio Z: Montreal's cutting-edge post-production studio for creative minds looking to have their vision professionally produced and mixed. Great music makes great moments.
Leave a Rating & Review: http://bit.ly/phorestfm
Read the transcript, or click here to learn more about Phorest Salon Software.

Aug 8, 2024
Aug 8, 2024
32 min
[294] Have you ever felt the life-changing impact of a mentor's guidance, wondered how to go from mastering individual skills to becoming a mentor yourself, or what it would take for you to be able to work with an industry leader you've looked up to for years?
In this episode, hear real-life professional stories highlighting the importance of empathy, cooperation, and building a community centred on mutual success. Then, discover how a viral video and a handwritten letter turned into a life-changing relationship for salon owner and educator Georgia Bell (@georgiabellhair).
This conversation with Georgia Bell was originally released in October 2020 as part of Season 4.
Links:
Learn more about Society by Georgia Bell: https://www.societygeorgiabell.co.uk/
Listen to "Why I’m Not Afraid of Change!" featuring Georgia Bell on the How to Cut It podcast: https://howtocut.it/georgia-bell-hairdresser/
Click here to subscribe to the PhorestFM email newsletter: https://bit.ly/3WvQiI7
This episode was edited and mixed by Audio Z: Montreal's cutting-edge post-production studio for creative minds looking to have their vision professionally produced and mixed. Great music makes great moments.
Leave a Rating & Review: http://bit.ly/phorestfm
Read the transcript, or click here to learn more about Phorest Salon Software.

Aug 2, 2024
Aug 2, 2024
1hr 1 min
[292] What happens when a successful corporate executive chances everything on a failing beauty salon? What happens when you reach the point of no return, when you know things have to change? Stefania Rossi (@stefaniarossirecruitment) and Kelly Shaw's (@kellyshawme) journeys are tales of bold decisions and transformative leadership.
In this episode, learn more about their motivations, the critical moments that defined their careers, and the strategies they implemented to turn their ships (salons) around.
This shortened version of the conversation with Stefania Rossi was originally released in May 2022 as part of Season 6, and Kelly Shaw's was originally released in August 2021 as part of Season 5.
Links:
Learn more about Stefania Rossi Recruitment: https://www.stefaniarossi.co.uk/
Learn more about Kelly Shaw's coaching: https://www.kellyshaw.me/
Get your copy of 'Beauty and The Best' by Susan Routledge
Get your copy of 'How To Make Your Salon Work; So You Don't Have To' by Kelly Shaw
Click here to subscribe to the PhorestFM email newsletter: https://bit.ly/3WvQiI7
This episode was edited and mixed by Audio Z: Montreal's cutting-edge post-production studio for creative minds looking to have their vision professionally produced and mixed. Great music makes great moments.
Leave a Rating & Review: http://bit.ly/phorestfm
Read the transcript, or click here to learn more about Phorest Salon Software.

Mar 18, 2024
Mar 18, 2024
45 min
[286] In this episode rerun, salon owner & educator Erin Raber (@theculturecurl) walks us through the evolution of her salon's brand identity, how she redefined her marketing strategy to attract her ideal clientele and the clarity that comes with a focused marketing vision.
Pin-Up Curls' transformative journey from slow to flywheel growth is a powerful reminder of the importance of embracing innovation and striving for continuous improvement in business. By adopting the principles of flywheel growth, any company—big or small—can unleash its full potential and achieve sustainable success in the long run.
This conversation with Erin Raber was originally released in October 2022 as part of Season 6.
Links:
Learn more about Pin-Up Curls: https://www.pin-upcurls.com
Click here to subscribe to the PhorestFM email newsletter: https://bit.ly/3WvQiI7
This episode was edited and mixed by Audio Z: Montreal's cutting-edge post-production studio for creative minds looking to have their vision professionally produced and mixed. Great music makes great moments.
Leave a Rating & Review: http://bit.ly/phorestfm
Read the transcript, or click here to learn more about Phorest Salon Software.

Feb 19, 2024
Feb 19, 2024
20 min
[279] We all have stories to share. Some shape or empower us, and others change our lives — but if there's one thing Alex Belisle-Springer (@a.belspring) has learned from nearly a decade of sharing stories from the salon floor, it's familiarity more than knowledge that colours people's perspectives and allows them to embrace discomfort. Only when we take the time to listen and connect with one another do we open the door to vulnerability, acceptance and long-lasting positive change.
In a bonus to their conversation with Ronan Perceval, CEO of Phorest Salon Software, this episode features Alex Bélisle-Springer answering a quickfire round of questions from Shauna O'Halloran, Head of Education, Training & Support at Phorest.
Links:
Get your tickets for the next Salon Owners Summit: https://www.salonownersummit.com/tickets
Click here to subscribe to the PhorestFM email newsletter: https://bit.ly/3WvQiI7
This episode was edited and mixed by Audio Z: Montreal's cutting-edge post-production studio for creative minds looking to have their vision professionally produced and mixed. Great music makes great moments.
Leave a Rating & Review: http://bit.ly/phorestfm
Read the transcript, or click here to learn more about Phorest Salon Software.

Feb 19, 2024
Feb 19, 2024
1hr 5 min
[278] Few introverts can claim to have made a name for themselves by facilitating over 250 podcast conversations, but Alex Bélisle-Springer (@a.belspring) is not your typical introvert. As the Global Content Education Lead at Phorest and resident host of the PhorestFM podcast, Alex has made inspiring contributions to the salon community over the past seven years, resulting in various speaking opportunities and content collaborations featured in renowned print and digital industry media.
Blending advocacy, mentorship and personal experiences, Alex offers intersectional approaches and practical guidance to business owners and their staff on fostering safer spaces and more inclusive cultures in which understanding, kindness, curiosity and compassion prevail.
In conversation with Ronan Perceval, CEO of Phorest Salon Software, this episode has them reflect on their keynote at The Salon Owners Summit 2024, their life and experiences of alienation and belonging.
Links:
Get your tickets for the next Salon Owners Summit: https://www.salonownersummit.com/tickets
Click here to subscribe to the PhorestFM email newsletter: https://bit.ly/3WvQiI7
This episode was edited and mixed by Audio Z: Montreal's cutting-edge post-production studio for creative minds looking to have their vision professionally produced and mixed. Great music makes great moments.
Leave a Rating & Review: http://bit.ly/phorestfm
Read the transcript, or click here to learn more about Phorest Salon Software.

Jan 29, 2024
Jan 29, 2024
2 min
... we're back!
And with lots to celebrate together — including Phorest's 20th birthday, PhorestFM's 300th episode milestone, more of the Live From… episodes and, of course, plenty more stories from the salon floor to enjoy on your commutes, dog walks, mornings or evenings, with or without your team!
To make sure you don't miss a beat this year, subscribe to the Phorest FM email newsletter and follow both Phorest Salon Software (@phorestsalonsoftware) & Alex Bélisle-Springer (@a.belspring) on Instagram!
Watch the video teaser: https://youtu.be/62p6DhevG70
This trailer was edited and mixed by Audio Z: Great music makes great moments. Montreal's cutting-edge post-production studio for creative minds looking to have their vision professionally produced and mixed.

Nov 9, 2023
Nov 9, 2023
1hr 2 min
[272] Adversity comes in all shapes and forms — and it doesn't discriminate. In a slightly different delivery than your weekly PhorestFM episode, business coach Steve Gomez (@saloncoachsjg) will take us on his journey of overcoming pancreatic cancer, underscoring the role of psychological resilience, social support and adaptive coping strategies amid adversity. This episode dives into the essence of shifting mindsets, acknowledging our feelings, and the power of resilience in overcoming not only business obstacles but personal battles, too.
Trigger Warning: This podcast contains discussions about sensitive topics that may be distressing to some listeners. These topics include cancer, surgery complications and recounting of a near-death experience. We understand and respect that this subject may be emotionally challenging for some individuals, so please prioritize your well-being and feel free to pause or skip this episode if you feel it may affect you negatively. Listener discretion is advised.
If you or someone you know needs support or resources for any of the discussed topics, please get in touch with a mental health professional or GP. Your well-being is important to us.
Find services in your area:
Australia: https://shorturl.at/ghP37
Canada: https://shorturl.at/cgzPV
USA: https://shorturl.at/ho359
UK: https://shorturl.at/tuCWZ
Ireland: https://shorturl.at/prvAO
Links:
Learn more about Steve Gomez's business coach offerings: https://stephengomez.net/
Read the transcript and subscribe to the PhorestFM email newsletter: http://bit.ly/2T2gUj1
Leave a rating & review: http://bit.ly/phorestfm
This episode was edited and mixed by Audio Z: Montreal's cutting-edge post-production studio for creative minds looking to have their vision professionally produced and mixed. Great music makes great moments.

Nov 7, 2023
Nov 7, 2023
49 min
[270] For people within the industry wanting to blend their career and giving back initiatives with a global and almost immediate impact, empowering individuals living in conditions of poverty by equipping them with the necessary resources to not only survive but thrive with a career in the salon industry helps them connect to a larger purpose through the universal language of hair.
Mandy Pulse (@mandy_saloninspire), the owner of Salon Inspire in Kansas City, Missouri, is one of those people, and that's how the organization for which she's the proud Founder and CEO — Global Stylist Scholarship — came to life.
In this episode, we delve into Mandy's journey within the hair and beauty industry, explore her non-profit's transformative work and discuss the impact, challenges and rewards of connecting passion and purpose with global impact.
Links:
Listen back to PhorestFM Episode 269: https://link.chtbl.com/PFM-S07E269-HetherFlorman
Learn more about the Global Stylist Scholarship: https://www.globalstylistscholarship.com/
Studies & research: BMC Public Health, Corporation for National and Community Service, Journal of Happiness Studies, Volunteering and Civic Life in America
"The Healing Power of Doing Good" by Allan Luks: https://www.amazon.com/Healing-Power-Doing-Good/dp/0595175910
Read the transcript and subscribe to the PhorestFM email newsletter: http://bit.ly/2T2gUj1
Leave a rating & review: http://bit.ly/phorestfm
This episode was edited and mixed by Audio Z: Montreal's cutting-edge post-production studio for creative minds looking to have their vision professionally produced and mixed. Great music makes great moments.

Aug 14, 2023
Aug 14, 2023
33 min
[269] Hether Florman, the owner of Salon Hether's (@salonhethers) located in Arvada, Colorado, stands out as one of the many professionals in the industry who consistently strive to make a meaningful impact. Not only has she dedicated her entire career to doing hair and making people feel beautiful, but her unwavering dedication to personal growth and learning has also served as an inspirational force, leaving a profound mark on the lives of those fortunate enough to meet her.
In this episode, listen to Hether candidly share and reflect on her early career aspirations, her journey within the salon industry, the transformative experience of her volunteering work in Guatemala through her involvement with the Global Stylist Scholarship non-profit organization, and her ongoing commitments to leadership and impact.
Links:
Learn more about Salon Hether's: https://www.hethers.com/
Learn more about the Global Stylist Scholarship: https://www.globalstylistscholarship.com/
Read the transcript and subscribe to the PhorestFM email newsletter: http://bit.ly/2T2gUj1
Leave a rating & review: http://bit.ly/phorestfm
This episode was edited and mixed by Audio Z: Montreal's cutting-edge post-production studio for creative minds looking to have their vision professionally produced and mixed. Great music makes great moments.

Aug 7, 2023
Aug 7, 2023
48 min
[268] People don't leave companies; they leave leadership. If you agree, you already have one point in common with Zazou Salon and Academy's leadership team. Established by Bruce Peters in 1992, the salon's dedication to providing outstanding customer service, fostering a positive and fun work environment and giving back to the community has yet to fail its team and, therefore, the business's success. That's not to say that they didn't face various challenges throughout their journey, but from the opening of the salon in 1992 to the expansion of their flagship salon in 2008, they've never been afraid to try new things, never shied away from learning and have always strived to innovate and provide exceptional experiences for their clients.
In this episode, hear Janine Cannon @beauty.industry.expert, Brand and Business Development Lead at Zazou Salon and Academy, discuss the milestones and challenges the business has faced over the past 30 years as well as her insights on leadership, recruitment, retention, and personal growth within the company.
Links:
Learn more about Zazou Salon & Academy: www.zazou.ca
Follow the team on Instagram @zazousalonandacademy, Facebook Zazou Salon and Academy & TikTok @zazousalon
Reach out to Zazou's team: careers@zazou.ca or to Janine Cannon directly: janine@zazou.ca
Read the transcript and subscribe to the PhorestFM email newsletter: http://bit.ly/2T2gUj1
Leave a rating & review: http://bit.ly/phorestfm
This episode was edited and mixed by Audio Z: Montreal's cutting-edge post-production studio for creative minds looking to have their vision professionally produced and mixed. Great music makes great moments.

May 1, 2023
May 1, 2023
57 min
[266] Every salon owner has a different story. Different perspectives, values and influences that all shape the type of business they run. In this episode, we sit down with a long-time PhorestFM listener and owner based out of South London. Meet Peter Borg, Salon Founder & Managing Director of Queen B Luxury Nail & Beauty Lounge.
Peter shares his entrepreneurial journey from managing a car wash operation when he was just 8 or 9 years old to having an international DJing career to then running a salon, with the stories and challenges that came with it. For the astute businessman, the key to success boils down to first-class customer experiences, hard work, resiliency, and community care.
Links:
Learn more about Queen B Luxury Nail and Beauty Lounge: https://queenb.london/
Read the transcript and subscribe to the PhorestFM email newsletter: http://bit.ly/2T2gUj1
Leave a rating & review: http://bit.ly/phorestfm
This episode was edited and mixed by Audio Z: Montreal's cutting-edge post-production studio for creative minds looking to have their vision professionally produced and mixed. Great music makes great moments.

Apr 24, 2023
Apr 24, 2023
58 min
[265] Hair3Rs exists under the parent organisation FVREE, which supports Victim Survivors and works on breaking the cycle of family violence. Launched in 2018 as a pilot program for Melbourne salon professionals, the training was so successful that HaiR-3Rs is now available to salon professionals across Australia. On this week's episode, Program Manager Brianna Myors joins PhorestFM to discuss the program and how they support salon professionals to be champions of change.
Trigger Warning: This podcast contains discussions about sensitive topics that may be distressing to some listeners. These topics include but are not limited to family violence and abuse in their various forms.
We understand and respect that this subject may be difficult for some individuals and bring up all sorts of feelings, so please prioritize your well-being and feel free to pause or skip this episode if you believe it may affect you negatively. Listener discretion is advised.
If you or someone you know needs support or resources for any of the discussed topics, please reach out to local support services or crisis helplines. Remember, you are not alone, and asking for help is always okay.
Find family violence resources and services in your area:
Australia: https://www.fvree.org.au/contact/
Canada: https://shorturl.at/bdotJ
USA: https://shorturl.at/aoPY1
UK: https://shorturl.at/tvFJS
Ireland: https://shorturl.at/altx6
UAE: https://shorturl.at/atxY6
Links:
Visit HaiR-3Rs' website: https://www.hair3rs.org.au/
Follow HaiR-3Rs on Instagram (@hair3rs) & on Facebook
Watch SBS The Feed's 8-min documentary on HaiR-3Rs' services: https://tinyurl.com/2jrrhffk
Read the transcript and subscribe to the PhorestFM email newsletter: http://bit.ly/2T2gUj1
Leave a rating & review: http://bit.ly/phorestfm
This episode was edited and mixed by Audio Z: Montreal's cutting-edge post-production studio for creative minds looking to have their vision professionally produced and mixed. Great music makes great moments.

Apr 17, 2023
Apr 17, 2023
55 min
[264]
Links:
Follow Greg on Instagram: @greg_clarke_gc
Learn more about Amica Eco Hairdressing: https://amicaecohairdressing.ie/
Read the transcript and subscribe to the PhorestFM email newsletter: http://bit.ly/2T2gUj1
Leave a rating & review: http://bit.ly/phorestfm
This episode was edited and mixed by Audio Z: Montreal's cutting-edge post-production studio for creative minds looking to have their vision professionally produced and mixed. Great music makes great moments.