PEOPLE PASSION PURPOSE podcast with host Nina L. Kovner
Nina L. Kovner
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Let’s be honest, building and growing a creative small business is not for the faint of heart. It takes passion, purpose, courage, and an insane commitment to make it through the highs and lows, the failures and successes. As a Chief Awesomeness Empowerer and Context Creator at Passion Squared, Nina L. Kovner experiences these stories every single day. Now it’s time for you to hear the good, the bad, and the ugly behind what it takes, how to persevere, the lessons learned, the wisdom gained, and how to discover more clarity, courage, and confidence in your own small business journey. To learn more about Nina and Passion Squared, visit passionsquared.net
Available episodes
Newest first
Oldest first
Sep 1, 2023
SPECIAL GUEST Roxan McDonald On Storytelling, TikTok, Not Being Nice and So Much More
In this special episode of the pod, Nina is joined by author, writer, storyteller, content creator, and small business owner Roxan McDonald. Roxan shares her story of how she became a writer and storyteller, her viral rise on TikTok, not being nice, where gratitude fits in her recovery and life, moving to a new country and we dive into Roxan’s latest creation, the Spiritual AF Activity Book and Journal. You can find Roxan on the socials here and her new book here. You can find Passion Squared on the socials here and on the web here. Thank you so much for listening!
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Jul 3, 2023
Navigating Difficult Conversations with Salon Clients
In this episode, Nina responds to a question from Evan Joseph about dealing with a salon client who is being unreasonable and combative. There are several things to consider when deciding how to handle upset or angry salon clients; your business Agreements, your brand, lifetime client value, and the outcome you seek. Having healthy boundaries is essential in business, and Nina shares a few different ways to respond to these situations in a healthy way along with an example from My AwesomeAF Healthy Boundary Handbook which has several conversation frameworks like this to help you navigate the most common issues that arise. You can find Nina on the socials here and here, and on the web here. You can get a copy of My AwesomeAF Healthy Boundary Handbook here. Thank you so much for listening. And thank you @evanjosephcurls for inspiring this episode.
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Jun 20, 2023
Dear Salon Industry, We Need To Talk About Home Care Solutions for Your Clients
In this episode, Nina talks about the true purpose of providing home care solutions for your clients and some of the false narratives being shared in the professional salon industry. The truth is, your client's happiness matters not just on the day of their salon visit, but also, all the days in between. The purpose of offering home care is not about money or profits, it is one of the results, however, not the most important result, which is client happiness and convenience. Nina also breaks down the simple math of professional home care, dispelling a narrative about it not having any profit. These narratives, which lack significant context, cause harm and create confusion. It doesn't have to be that way. Together, we can change the narrative, which allows you to make more aligned decisions for your business and brand. Thank you so much for listening. You can find Passion Squared on the web here and on the socials here and here.
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Jun 5, 2023
The $100K Email: Building Care, Trust, and Value with Your Existing Clients
In this episode, Nina shares some simple, high-impact ways to show clients you care, build trust, and create more value for them. These simple actions, which have nothing to do with social media or algorithms, can help you retain awesome clients, and help you generate more revenue in the process. Also in this episode, Nina shares the real reason behind their obsession with squirrels, birds, and trees which is a story of hope and healing. You can find Nina and Passion Squared on the web here and on the socials here and here. Thank you for listening!
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May 29, 2023
ENCORE: A Different Look at Team Handbooks and Client Agreements
One way to reduce team discourse, leadership overwhelm and angst is to have clear, simple, aligned, and compassionate communication. And while that sounds like, duh Nina, the truth is it's one of the most common reasons discourse is created in the first place, and why people quit. Unmet expectations, broken promises, or misaligned expectations come back to communication. In this episode, Nina shares the Awesome Team Handbook framework they created for clients of Passion Squared, along with some crucial details and context. Whether it's team, tenant, or client agreements, the more clear you are on your brand, the more clear your communications will be. Healthy communication, happy people. You can find the Team Handbook Template here, the Client Agreements Framework here, and find Nina on the socials @passionsquared and at passionsquared.net Thank you so much for listening!
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May 7, 2023
Healthy Boundaries: Conversation Framework for Pricing Discussions with Clients
In this episode, Nina shares the Healthy Boundary Conversation Framework from My AwesomeAF Healthy Boundary Handbook to help guide you through some of the more challenging discussions when salon clients are asking about the pricing of your services and when you have a price increase. Nina also walks you through the differences between healthy boundary communications on price increases and no boundary communications. You will immediately feel the difference. You can apply these frameworks to any difficult conversation, and the ones you tend to avoid. We also talk about Taylor Swift, because, of course, we do. You can find My AwesomeAF Healthy Boundary Handbook here and find Passion Squared on the socials here. Thank you so much for listening!
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Apr 24, 2023
Not Everyone Goes To A Salon: A Lesson In Marketing & Your Mindset
In this episode, Nina shares some much-needed context to help you understand the difference between salon-going and non-salon going consumers, which helps you better define your own target market, dream clients, or what we call at Passion Squared, brand people. When you have clarity around this, you can spend more time focusing on who you serve, and less time and frustration on the folks who simply don't see value in a salon experience or never will. Nina also shares a super important marketing fundamental to help you align your pricing with your brand, strategy, business model, objectives, and desired outcomes and simplify your decision-making. You can find us on the socials @passionsquared and on the web here. Thank you so much for listening!
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Apr 3, 2023
It's Time To Dismantle The Salon Retail Narrative
In this episode, Nina invites you to dismantle a decades-old narrative about salon "retailing". The truth is, your clients come to you because of your professional experience and expertise which includes how to maintain their hair, skin, etc. at home. The purpose and objective of educating your clients and recommending home care products and tools are to ensure your clients are happy. The outcome of happy clients is a happy business, which includes additional revenue. Money is not the objective, however, it can be one of the outcomes. If you choose not to educate your clients, you cannot get mad when they seek that education elsewhere, be it the drugstore aisle, Amazon, YouTube, or TikTok. You can find the most recent post we discussed in this episode here. You can find us on the web at passionsquared.net and on the socials @passionsquared Thank you so much for listening!
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Mar 20, 2023
Here Comes The Sun: Lessons About Trauma, Determination, Healing & Hope
In this episode, I share my process and experience of saying yes to a trip to Los Angeles for a special event and all the feelings I had, and the lessons I picked up along the way. This is a story of identifying new traumas, not feeling ready, the healing that comes with feeling your feelings, determination, finding hope again, and celebrating every step, literally and figuratively. A big shout-out of gratitude to David and Alexis Thurston of Danger Jones and every human I was honored to connect with at the event for your trust, compassion, grace, and love. Thank you for being part of my healing. You can find Nina on the socials @passionsquared and on the web at passionsquared.net Thank you so much for listening. Here comes the sun!
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Mar 6, 2023
My Take On Independence and Interdependence from 2013
In this episode, Nina share's chapter from their book Follow Your Heart, written in 2013. The chapter is called PEOPLE, and it walks you through why the concept of independence is a myth, and why interdependence is really where it's at still to this day. You can apply this concept to both your business and your life because the truth is, you need people, we need people, and none of us would be where we are today without the people who held us, guided us, and lifted us up along the way. You can find Nina on the socials here and the Follow Your Heart digital and audiobook here. Thank you so much for listening! Have a beautiful day.
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Feb 21, 2023
Commission Percentages vs. Compensation Programs
In this episode, Nina invites you to look at the words and language you use as a salon owner and how they align with your brand and the outcomes you seek. Traditionally, there's been a focus on commission in the salon industry, which becomes problematic and creates unrealistic expectations, confusion, and disappointment. Whether you are an employment-based salon owner or a lease-based salon owner, this is an episode that may be the spark you need to dive deeper into your brand work, and in turn, create a more clear, aligned, consistent and valuable story around the compensation or lease program you offer which can help you find the folks who see value in what you offer and are the best fit for your brand. You can find Passion Squared on the socials @passionsquared and on the web at passionsquared.net Thank you so much for listening!
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Feb 21, 2023
A Different Look At Team Handbooks and Agreements
One way to reduce team discourse, leadership overwhelm and angst are to have clear, simple, aligned, and compassionate communication. And while that sounds like, duh Nina, the truth is it's one of the most common reasons discourse is created in the first place, and why people quit. Unmet expectations, broken promises, or misaligned expectations come back to communication. In this episode Nina shares the Team Handbook framework they created for clients of Passion Squared, along with some crucial details and context. Whether it's team, tenant, or client agreements, the more clear you are on your brand, the more clear your communications will be. Healthy communication, happy people. You can find the Team Handbook Template here and find Nina on the socials @passionsquared and at passionsquared.net Thank you so much for listening!
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Feb 13, 2023
A Different Look At Team Handbooks and Agreements
One way to reduce team discourse, leadership overwhelm and angst is to have clear, simple, aligned, and compassionate communication. And while that sounds like, duh Nina, the truth is it's one of the most common reasons discourse is created in the first place, and why people quit. Unmet expectations, broken promises, or misaligned expectations come back to communication. In this episode Nina shares the Team Handbook framework they created for clients of Passion Squared, along with some crucial details and context. Whether it's team, tenant, or client agreements, the more clear you are on your brand, the more clear your communications will be. Healthy communication, happy people. You can find the Team Handbook Template here and find Nina on the socials @passionsquared and at passionsquared.net Thank you so much for listening!
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Feb 6, 2023
Justifying Your Value, Worth and Price
In this episode, Nina dives deeper into an Instagram post shared last week on being mindful about creating content drenched in justification around the value, worth, and pricing of your brand services and products. Whether you are a stylist, a salon, a fitness trainer, a massage therapist, a lash artist, or a content creator, always remember your content is your marketing. When you find yourself sharing content that speaks to your value, worth, and pricing, ask yourself who is this targeting and whether is it adding value and solving a problem for those you serve. Your current clients already know the value of the experience you deliver at the price you set. Your future clients will make a decision that they value the experience you deliver at the price you set. Those who don't see value in the experience you deliver at the price you set aren't your people. You can find Nina and Passion Squared on the socials @passionsquared and on the web at passionsquared.net Thank you for listening.
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Jan 31, 2023
BONUS Episode Nina Kovner on Branding
Bestie of Passion Squared and the beauty industry Gordon Miller recently launched a new podcast, Social Beauty Makers, and invited Nina on his pod.
From Social Beauty Makers
A renowned coach, marketer, and thought leader in social and digital media, Nina Kovner, Passion Squared CEO, gives us a 15-minute master class on the fundamentals related to 'brand' and 'branding' -two words too often used interchangeably... in error. Today perhaps more than ever before, the essence of who we are and we show up (as businesses, professionals, or as humans) matters to those we connect with day-to-day. And just as education matters in your craft, so does it matter in raising the bar on your marketing game. Listen in for more.
You can find Gordon on the socials @gordnm and Nina @passionsquared
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Jan 23, 2023
The Difference Between Brand Values and Brand Value
In this episode Nina shares insights into why it's essential to understand your brand values, what those you serve value, and the difference between brand values and brand value. With the recent decision Amazon made to end their Smile program they chose to abandon a part of their brand that was of value for some, and in doing so, moves folks to question Amazon's actual brand values. Your brand story is the foundation of all that you do as a small business owner, and it begins by having clarity of your brand purpose, promise, and people. You can find Nina on the socials @passionsquared and on the web at passionsquared.net Thank you so much for listening!
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Jan 16, 2023
Aligning Your Words with Your Brand
In this episode, Nina shares insights and examples of why it's important to align your words, language, communications, and content with your brand purpose, promise, people, voice, values, and vibe. Your words have energy, meaning, and impact. You want the words you choose to help you move toward the outcome you're seeking while ensuring they are in the language of your client, customer, or consumer. You can find Nina and Passion Squared on the socials @passionsquared and at passionsquared.net Thank you so much for listening!
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Jan 9, 2023
Care, Trust and Value in 2023
In this episode Nina shares some insights into how you can double down on caring, building trust, and delivering value for your clients, teams, and tenants this year. Whether you believe a recession is here or on the way, getting back to the fundamentals of building relationships, referrals, retention, and revenue is very much in style. What's out of style is client shaming, blaming, and being inflexible. Care, trust, and value are very much in. Focus on solutions, along with clarity of your brand purpose, promise, and people. You got this! You can find Nina and Passion Squared on the web here and on the socials @passionsquared Thank you so much for listening.
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Jan 2, 2023
What We Can Learn from New Year’s Day
Welcome back to the podcast, lol! It's been a minute. In this episode Nina shares some wisdom and thoughts around the feelings and hopes of new days and how that can translate into any day of the year. Whether you spend your New Year’s Day in silence and reflection, or out playing in nature, or binge watching your favorite show, prioritizing your self-care is essential to feeling more grounded, present and intentional as a leader, small business owner and human. If feeling more grounded and intentional and self-care is on your 2023 list, this episode is for you. You can find Nina and Passion Squared at passionsquared.net and @passionsquared on all the socials. Thank you so much for listening, and Happy New Year!
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Jul 12, 2022
Making Decisions and Creating Awesome Client Agreements
In this episode, Nina shares their frameworks for both decision making and creating awesome client agreements, two critically important tools for you to simplify your life as a leader and creative small business owner. The truth is you likely spend way too much time, energy, and stress not making decisions, avoiding problems, and feeling resentful when clients show up late, cancel at the last minute, or not show up at all. Clear, detailed agreements, along with a framework for making decisions and solving problems are your bestie. You can find the Decision Making Framework here and the Creating Awesome Client Agreement Framework here. You can find us on the web here and on the gram here. Thank you so much for listening.
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Jul 5, 2022
Where You Stand As A Brand and How You Decide
In this episode, Nina share's some insights into why some brands stand up publicly and fight injustices in our world and why some choose not to. This episode is not about politics, it's about clarity of brand story, vision, and values. It's about the choices you make as a brand in relation to what your people value, whether it be clients, team members, or tenants if you are leading a lease-based business. It's about aligning your actions with your brand promises. Thank you so much for listening with an open heart and brain. If you would like to keep the conversation going, you can find us on the gram and on the web.
NOTE: This is our first episode after 6 months, and there were some glitches, lol. We decided to keep the glitches in the episode to honor being perfectly imperfect. Perfection is a myth. Repeat as often as needed.
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Jan 15, 2022
The Not So Great Cancellation, Focusing On What You Can Control + Being Where Your Feet Are
The awesome news is your clients are respecting your Safe In Our Salon Agreements + Protocols and canceling their reservations if they feel ill or have been exposed, the not so awesome news is you may be having a trauma response to your 2020 experience. If this feels relatable, you are not alone.
In this episode, Nina shares some thoughts on how to navigate the current cancellation surge you may be seeing in your salon, some resources, and tools to care for your mental health and wellness, taking a look at your lapsed client list, and reaching out to the people who’ve been too busy and forgot to make a reservation who are healthy and would love to hear from you. Thank you to @hairbrained_offical and to @flamingoloungehair for inspiring this episode. You can find us online at passionsquared.net and on the gram and Facebook @passionsquared Thank you for listening. And remember, do your very best to be where your feet are.
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Jan 4, 2022
Getting Back To What Matters On Social Media
In this all-new episode of the pod, Nina shares their experience with the recent 33-day social break they took. At Passion Squared, we've been sharing with our clients and community for years about the importance of taking breaks, however, during this break, Nina saw the need for even more time off, and when you are on, remembering your purpose for being there, focusing on who you serve and the solutions you have for those you serve. It's time to get back into a healthy relationship with the socials, stay aligned with your brand purpose, promise, and people and prioritize your mental health and wellness. Thank you so much for listening. You can find Nina and Passion Squared online at passionsquared.net @passionsquared If you are a salon owner, you can learn more about A School here.
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Nov 18, 2021
ENCORE: Nina L. Kovner On Holidays + Boundaries + Britney Spears
(This episode originally aired on December 24, 2019)
In this episode, Nina shares her experience around navigating the holidays when you struggle to find joy in them, a little but super important rant on Britney memes and mental health, along with reading a few pages from her NEW My AwesomeAF Boundary Book that touches on clients demanding to be squeezed in and talking politics with family. You can get your copy of My AwesomeAF Boundary Book in the Passion Squared Shop here and find Nina on the gram @passionsquared
Thank you so much for listening!
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Nov 11, 2021
ENCORE: Danielle Green On The Hair Love Book + Animated Short Film + The CROWN Act
(This episode originally aired on February 13, 2020)
In this episode we sit down with Danielle Green of Radically Curly to talk about the Hair Love book, the recent Oscar win for the Hair Love animated short film, and the CROWN Act. It is currently LEGAL in all but three states (now 14 as of this encore episode) in the US to discriminate against Black people who wear natural, protective and braided hairstyles both in schools and in the workplace. This is racism. Period. Danielle shares her experience as a hairstylist, educator and leader in the movement of not only embracing natural hair texture but falling in love with the hair you were born with. After you listen to this episode, we invite you to join us in signing the petition to get the CROWN Act in all 50 states. Visit bit.ly/CROWNAct to be part of the solution and end this form of discrimination. You can find Danielle on the web @radicallycurly and radicallycurlysalon.com Thank you Danielle for sharing your heart, wisdom and pas…
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Oct 9, 2021
Fifty Five Lessons + Wisdoms from 55 Years of Living
In this episode of the pod, Nina shares fifty five life and business wisdoms and lessons on their 55th birthday with special guest and bestie Gordon Miller of Hairbrained. Grab your favorite beverage and snack, get cozy, take a listen and if you feel inspired, share some of your wisdoms and lessons with us on the socials. You can find Nina + Passion Squared on the gram @passionsquared @ninakovner and Gordon @gordnm @hairbrained_official
Thank you so much for listening and for you trust, support and LOVE. We’re gratefulAF for you.
Some Causes Close To Nina’s Heart
Black Trans Travel Fund
Marsha P Johnson Institute
Trevor Project
Dress Code Project
Best Friends Animal Society
Salt River Wild Horse Management Group
Some Causes Close To Gordon’s Heart
PAWS Chicago
Your Local Food Bank
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Jul 9, 2021
Nina L. Kovner On Business Integrity & Agreements + No Shows + Lifetime Client Value + Venmo Drama
In this What's On My Mind episode we are back with Nina sharing what's been on their mind the last couple weeks. Nina share's their thoughts on business integrity and ethics, business agreements and how they align with your own brand vision and values along with your brand purpose, promise and people. This applies to all aspects of your business and the daily decisions you make as a leader and small business owner. We talk lifetime client value and could not help but talk about the the recent Venmo drama and some things to consider before you make a decision for your own business. You can find us on the gram @passionsquared and on the web at passionsquared.net
To listen to the recent episode with Dr. Nancy on Mental Health, click here.
To get your copy of My AwesomeAF Boundary Book, click here.
To learn more about A School, click here.
Thank you for listening and for your trust, support and love.
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Jun 8, 2021
Kristin Rankin on Pride + Creating Inclusive Salons + Pronouns + The Dress Code Project
In this episode we talk (again!) with Kristin Rankin, hairdresser, owner of Fox & Jane Salon in Toronto + Founder of Dress Code Project. As we celebrate LGBTQIA+ Pride this month, our discussion with Kristin is super relevant as you reflect on how you can be a more inclusive, affirming salon for both your clients + team members.
We talk about all the things; salon closures, mental health, pronouns, pricing, the simplicity of removing gender from your services, creating safe spaces for the LGBTQIA+ communities, a graceful way to correct misgendering someone, Pride + more!
Thank you Kristin for coming back to the podcast, sharing your passion and for all you do for our communities. We are so grateful for you and your work.
You can find The Dress Code Project online at dresscodeproject.com, on the gram @thedresscodeproject and to see gender free pricing and services in action visit Fox & Jane Salon Toronto.
To download the Passion Squared 2021 Pride Guide, click here.
With love…
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May 23, 2021
Dr. Nancy Sobel on Mental Health + Wellness As We Enter Our Post Pandemic World
Content Warning: Depression, Suicidal Ideation & Traumatic Experience
In this comeback episode Nina brings back her therapist, Dr. Nancy Sobel, to talk about all the things mental health. Dr. Nancy Sobel is a psychologist in private practice in West LA specializing in the treatment of trauma and compulsive disorders and has been Nina's personal therapist for the past 14 years. Dr. Sobel has worked in the addiction field for over thirty years and has consulted in the development of treatment programs in the United States and abroad. Dr. Sobel is widely known for her work in the entertainment industry and has developed a unique style of therapy for musicians and artists who spend large amounts of time on the road. She helped develop the MusiCares Addiction Recovery Program, a charity for impaired musicians funded in association with the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences.
Dr. Nancy shares her insight into what we may be feeling, how to navigate those feelings in ourselves…
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Mar 27, 2020
Dr. Nancy R. Sobel On Mental Health + Hope + Resilience with COVID-19
In this episode Nina chats with Dr. Nancy Sobel, a psychologist in private practice in Los Angeles California specializing in the treatment of trauma and compulsive disorders and Nina’s personal therapist for the past 13 years. Dr. Nancy shares her expertise, experience and some tools to help you understand and navigate all the stages and feels of this global pandemic. We talk anxiety, fear, guilt, resentment, codependency, routine, ritual, reality, gratitude, hope and more. You can find Dr. Nancy on the gram through her non-profit @gapcreate and on the web at gapcreate.org You can find Nina on the gram @passionsquared Thank you Dr. Nancy for sharing your experience and guidance with us, we love you and are forever grateful for you.
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Mar 14, 2020
Nina L. Kovner On Communication + Community + Compassion In Crisis
In this episode Nina shares her thoughts around navigating the anxiety, fear and uncertainty around COIVD-19 for salons + small business owners. If you are seeking guidance and support with your client + team communications, click to read Clear Communication Is Kind.
Please use TRUSTED news sources for information in your country, state, county and city and be very careful of what you are sharing online. We need more facts, calm, mindfulness and more sharing of resources that are helpful.
Your feelings are valid. We are in this together. And we will get through this together. You can find Nina and Passion Squared on the gram @passionsquared We love you and are here for you today and always.
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Mar 3, 2020
Rebecca Taylor On Paying Artists + Salon Ownership + Mental Wellness
In this episode we sat down with Rebecca Taylor, salon owner, colorist, educator, influencer and mental health advocate. We talked about all the things; her recent departure from a brand she helped create, paying artists, opening her second salon, navigating mental health and so much more. You can find Rebecca on the gram @rebeccataylorhair Thank you Rebecca for sharing your passion, truth and journey. We love you!
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Feb 19, 2020
Keya Neal On Independent Education + Representation + Blackish
In this LIVE from ISSE with Hairbrained episode we have Keya Neal of Texture vs. Race back with us for round two! We talk about ALL THE THINGS, from the reality of independent education, Keya’s journey in becoming an awesome public speaker, and the recent problematic Blackish episode on black hair and salons. For even more context and education, please listen to Keya’s first episode on the podcast where we discussed cultural appropriation, braided styles and inclusion. A big shout out of gratitude to Keya for coming back and sharing her heart and brain, and to PBA and Hairbrained for creating this space for us to chat and to all the awesome humans who joined us LIVE. You can find Keya on the gram @keya_artistically_neal and on Facebook at Texture vs. Race.
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Feb 13, 2020
Danielle Green On Hair Love The Book + Animated Short Film + The CROWN Act
In this episode we sit down with Danielle Green of Radically Curly to talk about the Hair Love book, the recent Oscar win for the Hair Love animated short film, and the CROWN Act. It is currently LEGAL in all but three states in the US to discriminate against black people who wear natural, protective and braided hairstyles both in schools and in the workplace. This is racism. Period. Danielle shares her experience as a hairstylist, educator and leader in the movement of not only embracing natural hair texture but falling in love with the hair you were born with. After you listen to this episode, we invite you to join us in signing the petition to get the CROWN Act in all 50 states. Visit bit.ly/CROWNAct to be part of the solution and end this form of discrimination. You can find Danielle on the web @radicallycurly and radicallycurlysalon.com Thank you Danielle for sharing your heart, wisdom and passion with us. We LOVE you.
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Jan 21, 2020
Kristen Peckich on The Power of Social + Digital Marketing for The Holidays
In this episode I sit down with Kristen Peckich, stylist, leader, bridal specialist and owner of Lapomponnee Salons + MEC Modern Barbering. Kristen has been a salon owner for 28 years and happens to be the same generation as my, Gen X, when the Internet did not even exist to help empower small businesses. Kristen shares her experience around discovering the power of social media, and how, after 28 years, through the use of Instagram, Facebook and Email Marketing, had record breaking Holiday sales. This is a must listen episode for all, but particularly if you are still confused as to how social + digital media can empower your small business. You can find Kristen and her salons on the gram @lapomponnee + @mecmodernbarbering
If you are ready to empower your creative small business with social + digital marketing, join our social school program by visiting passionsquared.net/shop
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Jan 16, 2020
Nina L. Kovner On Exposure Doesn’t Pay The Bills
In this episode I share my experience, wisdom and context around getting paid as a speaker, educator, platform artist and influencer. After 30 years of being an educator, education director and VP of Marketing, Education and Events, I have negotiated hundreds of contracts and today help our clients at Passion Squared understand their value and worth. This is not a black and white one size fits all discussion, but it is one that needs to be clearly understood so you are empowered to advocate and negotiate for yourself. A big shout out of gratitude to all the brands who have invested in and see value in what educators, speakers, platform artists and influencers bring to the table. We see you and appreciate you. And all the gratitude and love to bestie of Passion Squared Rebecca Taylor for inspiring this episode.
You can find me on the gram @passionsquared and find my new book along with all the services we offer at passionsquared.net/shop Thank you so much for listening!
PS: If you l…
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Dec 30, 2019
Gordon Miller + Nina L. Kovner Decade In Review + Ramblings + Predictions
In this extended episode Nina sits down with her bestie Gordon Miller, CEO of Hairbrained.me to talk about the decade in social, digital, the beauty industry, highlights, proud moments along with some predictions of where they see the future of social, digital and more. Buckle up loves, this is a long yet loaded with so much wisdom episode. You can find Gordon on the gram @gordnm @hairbrained_official and Nina @passionsquared Thank you Gordon for being our special guest and to all of our listeners who have been with us the last two years. We are so grateful for you. Happy New Year!
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Dec 24, 2019
Nina L. Kovner On Holidays + Boundaries + Britney Spears
In this episode Nina shares her experience around navigating the holidays when you struggle to find joy in them, a little but super important rant on Britney memes and mental health, along with reading a few pages from her NEW My AwesomeAF Boundary Book that touches on clients demanding to be squeezed in and talking politics with family. You can get your copy of My AwesomeAF Boundary Book in the Passion Squared Shop here and find Nina on the gram @passionsquared
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Nov 14, 2019
Andi Scarbrough on Energy + Serving Beyond The Service
In this we chat with Andi Scarbrough, a salon owner, educator, reiki master and founder of Crown Works. We talk the meaning and power of 11:11 (we recorded this episode on 11/11 OMG!), how energy impacts how you show up for yourself, your clients, your team, and so much more deep and profound wisdom. You just gotta listen. Thank you Andi for sharing your spirit and wisdom with us. You can find Andi on the gram @crown_works and at crownworks.net
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Nov 9, 2019
Nina L Kovner On Instagram Hiding Likes + The Purpose of Social Media
In this episode Nina shares some thoughts around the ongoing test of Instagram hiding likes and the test coming to the US. In addition, Nina helps provide some perspective around the purpose of social media and getting back to what really matters, relationships, solving problems, adding value, listening and more. You can find Nina on the gram @passionsquared and at passionsquared.net. Thank you so much for listening.
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Oct 9, 2019
Nina L Kovner On My Year of Daring Greatly
In this episode I share my very personal journey of joy, courage, fear, depression and all the things this past year that brought me to this moment of immense gratitude, the day of my 53rd birthday. This is a very vulnerable and potentially triggering episode for those who deal with depression, eating disorders and suicidal thoughts. Because of that, please be mindful of when and where you listen and also of the resources available to you in the US such as the Suicide Prevention Hotline 1-800-273-8255 The Trevor Project 1-866-488-7386 Trans Lifeline 877-565-8860.
Thank you so much for listening and for all your love, grace, patience and support this past year. It gets better. I promise.
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Oct 4, 2019
Melanie Guzzo on Brand Values + Leadership + Community
In this episode we sit down with Melanie Guzzo of Virtue Vegan Salon and Stay Sharp Education. Melanie is a salon owner, leader, educator, vegan, and all around courageous bad ass. Melanie shares her journey as an artist, how she found clarity around the Virtue Vegan Salon brand values, healthy boundary setting, moving from behind the chair to full time leader, and so much more. You can find Melanie on the gram @melanieguzzo @virtuevegansalon @staysharpnation Thank you Melanie for sharing your story with us. We love you!
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Sep 6, 2019
Tracy Ftacek on Building A Brand + Culture + Communication
In this episode we sit down with Tracy Ftacek, salon owner, educator, leader and creator of the on demand beauty brand Pretty Convenient. Tracy shares her journey into salon ownership, why culture + communication has become her foundation for success, advice for new owners and so much more. You can find Tracy on the gram @prettyconvenientapp @tracyftacek Thank you Tracy for sharing your story with us. We love you!
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Aug 27, 2019
Celeste Gonzalez on Advanced Education + Persistence + Finding Her Rhythm
In this episode Nina talks with Celeste Gonzalez, hair + make up artist, salon owner, educator and mama! Celeste’s story is a must listen as she shares her wisdom around being a newer stylist in the pro beauty biz and how her passion for advanced education has propelled her success in just two short years along with how she navigates finding her rhythm and staying out of the comparison game on social media. Thank you Celeste for sharing your story with us. We love you! You can find Celeste on the gram @celestethestylist
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Aug 15, 2019
Nina L Kovner On Client Shaming On The Socials
In this episode Nina shares her thoughts on putting clients on blast on social media and the not so awesome impact it can have on your business and brand, along with sharing a blog she wrote back in 2015 on the topic. A big shout out of gratitude to @erin.mills on the gram for inspiring this episode. You can find Nina and Passion Squared on the gram @passionsquared Thank you so much for listening.
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Aug 9, 2019
Katie Tellor on Salon Ownership + Growing Assistants + Social Media
In this episode Nina talks with Katie Tellor, salon owner, leader, educator and owner of Abstrakt Studio in Frisco Texas. Katie shares her story about finding the beauty biz, making the leap into ownership and leadership, how she grows her assistants, how social media has helped empower her biz and so much more! You can find Katie on the gram @katietellorhair @abstraktstudio
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Aug 2, 2019
Nina L Kovner On Reading Online Reviews + Gratitude
In this episode Nina takes it all the way back to the beginning of the podcast and reads the reviews our awesome listeners have shared along with the wisdom, power and intel that comes when you take the time to dig deep into the experiences your clients are sharing online. This is a must listen episode for all creative small biz folks, in particular, if you are one that fears review sites. You can find Nina on the gram sharing on behalf of her company @passionsquared Thank you so much for listening!
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Jun 27, 2019
Brenda Amaral on Leadership + Self-Awareness + Inclusivity
In this episode Nina chats with Brenda Amaral, leader, salon owner, educator, board member of ABCH and all around awesome human being. Brenda shares her story about how she discovered her love for the pro beauty biz, why she opened a salon, how she handles team members that leave, the importance of inclusivity and integration in the salon biz, and SO much more. You can find Brenda on the gram @brendolah @gwenmirellesalon and here at Texture vs. Race on Facebook. Thank you Brenda for sharing your story with us. We love you!
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Jun 20, 2019
Gina Bianca on Salon Ownership + Social Media + Purpose
In this episode Nina chats with Gina Bianca, salon owner, educator, coach and beauty influencer. Gina shares her story about becoming a hairdresser and salon owner along with what inspired her to open and most recently close her first salon. Gina also shares her thoughts on social media, purpose, burnout and more. You can find Gina on the gram at @iamginabianca + @thenetworksalon Thank you Gina for sharing your story with us. We love you!
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May 10, 2019
Lisa Walker On Self Awareness + Priorities + Social Media
In this episode Nina chats with Lisa Walker, colorist, educator, mama and founder of Balayage Boot Camp + Hairbangers Academy. Lisa shares her inspiring story of how she went from being an excuse maker to taking responsibility for her career, and in doing so, discovered her gift for empowering hair colorists through her honest, tough love style of education and how she finds her rhythm as a working colorist, educator, biz owner, wife and mama. You can find Lisa on the gram @lisalovesbalayage and online at balayagebc.com
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Apr 22, 2019
Stacey Rackham On Growth + Inclusivity + Leadership
In this episode Nina chats with Stacey Rackham, owner of Mint Hair Crafting salon. Stacey shares her journey on becoming a salon owner, leader, why inclusivity became a brand promise at Mint, and how growth can sometimes be super uncomfortable, and we even hear the sweet story of how Stacey found her fur baby Walter! You can find Stacey (and Walter) on the socials @minhaircrafting @staceyrackhair
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Apr 11, 2019
Riawna Capri + Nikki Lee on Leadership + Communication + Respect
In this episode Nina sits down with the leaders and co-owners of Nine Zero One Salon, Academy, Beauty Coach TV, In Common Beauty and BeYOUtiful Foundation. Riawna + Nikki share their story of the early days of being salon owners, the lessons they learned, how they have remained awesome business partners and friends, along with why communication and respect have become the foundation for the brands they have created. This is a must listen for anyone thinking about becoming a small business owner and leader. You can learn more about these humans, their brands and causes on the socials at @riawna @nikkilee901 @ninezeroone @beautycoach_com @incommon @beyoutiful_foundation
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Mar 29, 2019
Alicia The Alchemist on Leadership + Judgement + Finding Her Rhythm
In this episode Nina sits down with @alicia.the.alchemist owner of two salons, educator, new mama and super awesome human! Alicia shares her story of finding the beauty biz, lessons on leadership, delegation, releasing judgement and how she finds her rhythm. You can find Alicia on the gram @alicia.the.alchemist Thank you Alicia for sharing your inspirational story with us!
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Mar 21, 2019
Caron On Finding her Passion + Lessons from the Military + Mental Health Advocacy
In this episode Nina sits down with Caron, an Army and Navy veteran, hairdresser, makeup artist, small biz owner and mental health advocate. Caron shares her story about discovery the beauty biz as a child, entrepreneurial lessons learned in her military training, and the importance of erasing the stigma of mental health and wellness. You can find Caron on the gram @caronsim and @yesdaaahling and on the web at caronism.com Thank you Caron for sharing your story with us and thank you for your service!
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Mar 12, 2019
Tina DeSeta on Purpose + Community + Mental Health
In this episode Nina sits down with Tina DeSeta, salon owner, colorist, community builder and mental health warrior. Tina shares about why she became a hairstylist and how her purpose fuels her passion for people to feel seen. You can find Tina on the gram @tinadesetahair and on Facebook at Deseta Hair Design. Thank you Tina for being awesome and sharing your story with us! We love you.
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Mar 1, 2019
Nina L Kovner on 3 Ways To Show You Care + Grow Consistently
In this episode Nina shares three simple ways you can show your clients you care and grow your business long term. These basic fundamentals are not fancy, new or revolutionary, but if you are not doing them consistently, you will find yourself on the struggle bus more often than not. You can find Nina on the gram @passionsquared and on the web at passionsquared.net
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Feb 21, 2019
Nina L Kovner on Courage + Being Brave + Walking The Talk
In this episode Nina shares a recent experience she had getting stuck on a highway, alone, at night, in the mountains, in a snowstorm, and all the lessons she learned about being brave, our capacity for strength in scary situations, and the incredible kindness of strangers. Warning: this story may cause some fear and anxiety, but the lessons shared may be worth the temporary discomfort you may feel. You can find Nina on the web @passionsquared and at passionsquared.net
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Jan 7, 2019
J Ladner on Living Out Loud + Purpose + Influencers
In this episode we sit down with J Ladner, salon owner, educator, artist, influencer, husband and father. We talk purpose, leadership, LGBTQ rights, influencer marketing and OMG all the feels and more. You can find J on the gram @itsmrjladner and at salonjladner.com
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Dec 27, 2018
2018 Thoughts and 2019 Insights with Nina L. Kovner
In this episode I share some thoughts about 2018 and what I see coming for creative small businesses, online and off, in 2019. On a personal level, I share some raw and oh so honest thoughts about mental health, courage and faith. Thank you so much for listening and for all the love and support in this first year of our podcast. We love you!
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Dec 4, 2018
Keya Artistically Neal on Texture + Race + Diversity + Inclusion
In this episode, I sit down with the beautiful and passionate Keya Neal, artist, educator, master colorist, and founder of Kolour Kulture and Texture Vs. Race. Keya shares her story of how she became a hairdresser and why she has created a movement designed to break barriers and open up important conversations to empower artists and help them see that hair is a texture and not a race. You can find Keya on the gram @keya_artistically @texturevsrace @thekolourkulture on Facebook in the Texture Vs Race Facebook group and online at kolourkulture.com and texturevsracce.com
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Nov 21, 2018
Benjamin Jay on Online Marketing + Recruitment + Passion
In this episode I sit down with my long time friend Benjamin Jay, Salon Owner, Marketer + Leader at the Hair Loft LTD in Chicago. Ben shares his wisdom about marketing, social & digital media, recruitment, retail, passion and more. You can find Ben on the gram @bnjmnjy and his salons @thehairloftltd
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Oct 2, 2018
Dre Demry-Sanders on Vulnerability + Discrimination + Women of Color
In this episode, I have the honor of sitting down with Dre Demry-Sanders, session stylist, hairdresser + passionate activist. We talk about inspiring Dre’s story, women of color, hair, discrimination, inclusion, mental health and so much more! You can find Dre on the gram at @dre_on_hair and on her website at dreonhair.com
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Aug 29, 2018
Kellyn Anderson on Brand Vision + Purpose + Leadership
In this episode we sit down with Kellyn Anderson, Leader + Educator at Bow and Arrow Collective in Boston. We talk about Kellyn’s journey as a salon owner, developing and staying true to her purpose and brand, what leadership looks like, and the emotional journey of being a small business owner. You can find Kellyn on the gram at @kellyn.bowandarrow and @bowandarrow.collective
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Aug 15, 2018
Danielle Green on Finding Her Voice + Purpose + Empowering Women
In this episode we sit down with Danielle Green, activist and creator of the Radically Curly brand, whose purpose is to empower women to embrace and celebrate the hair texture they were born with. We talk purpose, brand, society’s twisted notion about how women of color should wear their hair, where the name Radically Curly came from, and more. You can find Danielle on the gram @radicallycurly and on the web at radicallycurly.com
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Aug 8, 2018
Gordon Miller On Disruption + Amazon + Retail
In this episode Gordon Miller, CEO (Chief Engagement Officer of Hairbrained shares some thoughts on digital disruption, the rise of Amazon in beauty, it’s effects on salon retail, retail in general and what we can do about it. You can find Gordon on the gram @gordnm and Hairbrained at @hairbrained_official + hairbrained.me + hblive.me
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Jul 15, 2018
Nina Kovner On Perseverance + Comparison + Social Media
In this What’s On My Mind episode Nina shares the truth behind her current state of mind, why it’s so important to acknowledge the lows as well as the highs and how to pull through it all. She also shares a little riff on comparison, knowing your brand, finding time for social and content creation. You can find Nina on the gram @passionsquared
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Jun 19, 2018
Kristin Rankin on Gender Free Haircuts + Safe Spaces + The Dress Code Project
In this incredibly emotional and inspiring episode we talk with Kristin Rankin, owner of Fuss Hair Studio in Toronto + Founder of The Dress Code Project and Gender Free Haircut Club. This is a must listen to any small business that offers services traditionally defined by gender, specifically, salon owners + hairstylists. As Kristin so powerfully shares… “fluidity of our gender is the future of our society”. You can find The Dress Code Project online at dresscodeproject.com, @thedresscodeproject and learn more about Kristin’s approach to gender free services at fusshairstudio.com
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May 17, 2018
Gordon Miller On Online Learning + Digital + Inspiration
In this episode we bring back our bestie Gordon Miller and talk online learning, education, context (yes, again!), voice, digital, social, inspiration and more. You can find Gordon at hairbrained.me, @hairbrained_official + on his personal Insta @gordnm
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Apr 29, 2018
Nina L. Kovner on Insta Experts + Context + Why
In this What’s On My Mind episode I share my thoughts context, Insta experts, Insta education and importance of understanding and using The Celery Test as shared by the awesome Simon Sinek in the book Start With Why when both giving and getting advice. You can find me on the gram @passionsquared Thank you so much for listening.
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Apr 15, 2018
Erica Santos On Commitment + Growth + Career Paths
In this episode Erica Santos of House of Cabelo Salon talks about how she handles the tough stuff of salon ownership, lesson of working with a business partner, career paths, growth, opening a second salon location + more. You can find Erica on the gram @hairbyericasantos Thank you so much for listening.
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Apr 8, 2018
Nina L. Kovner on Control Issues + Perspective + Social Media Breaks
In this What’s On My Mind episode I share some insights on control issues, finding perspective when plans go sideways, and why and how consistent social media breaks are critical to being an awesome leader. You can find me on the gram @passionsquared Thank you so much for listening.
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Mar 4, 2018
Nina L. Kovner on The Meaning of Social + the Vero App
In this extended What’s On My Mind episode I share some social media 101, why it’s time to get back to the fundamentals of social and my thoughts on the Vero app. You can find me on the gram @passionsquared Thank you so much for listening.
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Feb 25, 2018
Shurie Saxelby on Content Creation + Millennials + Empathy
In this episode Shurie shares her journey from photographer to studio owner, her thoughts on understanding the millennial generation + what it takes to create awesome content to build awesome engagement on Instagram. You can find Shurie on the gram @shurie
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Feb 18, 2018
Noelle Weatherwax on Community + Overcoming Adversity + Leadership
In this episode, Noelle Weatherwax of Concrete Rose Salon in Santa Cruz, shares her journey from being homeless to becoming an unexpected salon owner, why she chose the name Concrete Rose for her business along with the little things that fueled her passion for growing people. You can find Noelle + Concrete Rose Salon on the gram @noelle.concrete.rose and @concreterosesalon
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Feb 11, 2018
Mahogany Plautz on Salon Studios + Equality + Purpose
In this episode Mahogany Plautz, owner of Carve Salon in Minneapolis, shares her journey into becoming a salon suite owner, how being an educator has empowered her as a leader, and stepping into her purpose of inspiring more equal representation of people of color in pro beauty. You can find Mahogany on the gram @mahoganyhairstylistmpls
Thank you!
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Feb 4, 2018
Gordon Miller On Entrepreneurship + Leadership + Self-Awareness
In this EXTENDED and oh so honest episode with special Guest Gordon Miller, CEO of Hairbrained, Gordon talks about some of the most common challenges he has experienced with small business ownership + leaderships. The pain that sometimes comes with owning a salon, what to consider before opening, and lots of other juicy wisdom and advice.
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Jan 28, 2018
Jason McDonald on Ownership + Recovery + Passion
In this episode Jason shares his unplanned journey from stylist to owner, one thing he wish he knew before becoming an owner, the wisdom found in his recovery and what passion + purpose means to him.
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Jan 21, 2018
Nina L. Kovner on Positivity
In this What’s On My Mind episode I talk the perception that I am always positive and the tools I use to keep my promise to you and live my purpose.
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Jan 21, 2018
Nina L. Kovner on Anxiety
In this What’s On My Mind episode, I share my thoughts on living and thriving with anxiety and panic disorder and my personal process for dealing with it all.
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Jan 21, 2018
Aura Mae on Burnout + Self Care + Purpose
In this episode Aura shares her journey of moving with grace through two major burnouts, on how self care has become her guiding light and how purpose her purpose to teach brings her joy.
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Jan 14, 2018
Nina L. Kovner on Finding Your Rhythm
In this What’s On My Mind episode, I share my thoughts on how balance is unattainable and why finding your rhythm is where I suggest you focus your energy.
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Jan 14, 2018
Ash Fortis on Early Career Lessons + Social Media + Creative Courage
Ash Fortis shares her journey from beauty school to ownership, how she navigates the sometimes not too pretty part of social media and how she has managed to stay true to her creativity as an artist. This episode has a little appearance by Courage Jude towards the end, lol!
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Jan 7, 2018
Nina L. Kovner on Algorithms
In this ͞What’s On My Mind͟ episode, I share my thoughts on the latest Instagram algorithm rumors and why you need to ignore it.
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Jan 7, 2018
Amber Ohara on Perseverance + Self Care + New Beginnings
In this episode Amber shares her experience from 17 years of being a creative small biz owner and how self-awareness is a big reason she has been able to move through the struggle with grace.
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