Beyond The Technique Podcast
Welcome to the Beyond The Technique podcast with Kati Whitledge. We exist to support beauty & wellness pros and your growing team and business. We believe it's what you do beyond the technical aspects of your craft that will bring substantial success. We promise to bring you the most forward-thinking industry topics to help you consistently grow and develop yourself and your business.
info_outline
685: Boundaries: How to Protect Your Time, Energy, and Culture
04/30/2026
685: Boundaries: How to Protect Your Time, Energy, and Culture
Setting boundaries isn’t about being difficult, it’s about protecting your time, energy, and the culture you’ve worked so hard to build. In this episode, Kati breaks down what healthy boundaries actually look like in a salon or spa, from client policies to team expectations, and why inconsistent enforcement can quietly damage your business. She shares powerful examples and practical strategies to help you confidently communicate, uphold standards, and lead with emotional intelligence. If you’ve ever struggled with saying no, holding people accountable, or maintaining professionalism without guilt, this is a must-listen. WATCH ON YOUTUBE: GET MY BOOK! From First Date to Forever; How to Market Like A Matchmaker: POWERED BY: JOIN mya! LET’S CONNECT! BTT Instagram: MYA Instagram: FOLLOW KATI WHITLEDGE Instagram: Get my favorite bio-hacking products: SPONSORS Join the PBA:
/episode/index/show/katiwhitledge/id/41064930
info_outline
684: The Data You’ve Never Been Shown Before
04/27/2026
684: The Data You’ve Never Been Shown Before
In this data-driven episode, Kati sits down with industry expert, Alain Audet to unpack what’s really happening in today’s salon and spa industry. We talk about rising prices and declining client counts and the critical role of accurate data and benchmarking. Alain shares insights from the KIM report, revealing how top-performing salons are making smarter decisions around pricing, inventory, and growth strategy. You’ll learn why standardization, clean data entry, and intentional retail systems are essential for scaling profitability in today’s market. If you want to lead with clarity and stay ahead of industry shifts, listen to this conversation! GET MY BOOK! From First Date to Forever; How to Market Like A Matchmaker: POWERED BY: JOIN mya! FOLLOW SALON INTERACTIVE: Instagram: Website: KIM REPORT: LET’S CONNECT! BTT Instagram: MYA Instagram: FOLLOW KATI WHITLEDGE Instagram: Get my favorite bio-hacking products: SPONSORS Join the PBA:
/episode/index/show/katiwhitledge/id/40907780
info_outline
683: Winners vs. Losers: The Small Differences That Change Everything
04/23/2026
683: Winners vs. Losers: The Small Differences That Change Everything
What separates winners from losers isn’t talent, it is mindset, behavior, and daily discipline. In this episode, Kati breaks down the defining differences between winners and losers, from ownership thinking and long-term vision to consistency, preparation, and resilience. She challenges leaders to reflect on their own habits, highlighting how high standards, data-driven decisions, and leaning into discomfort create lasting success. If you’re ready to elevate your leadership and build a winning culture, this episode will show you exactly where to start. GET MY BOOK! From First Date to Forever; How to Market Like A Matchmaker: POWERED BY: JOIN mya! LET’S CONNECT! BTT Instagram: MYA Instagram: FOLLOW KATI WHITLEDGE Instagram: Get my favorite bio-hacking products: SPONSORS Join the PBA:
/episode/index/show/katiwhitledge/id/40891410
info_outline
682: Build Your Leadership Muscle
04/20/2026
682: Build Your Leadership Muscle
In this episode, Kati sits down with award-winning salon owner and business strategist Lindsey Young-Bullock to explore what it truly means to build your leadership muscle in today’s evolving salon industry. Lindsey shares her journey from independent stylist to thriving salon owner, revealing the hard lessons, systems, and mindset shifts required to lead a high-performing team. Together, they unpack why so many stylists are returning to commission-based salons—and how owners must rise as stronger leaders, coaches, and decision-makers to support them. If you’re ready to grow your profits, develop your team, and lead with confidence, this episode is your blueprint. WATCH ON YOUTUBE: GET MY BOOK! From First Date to Forever; How to Market Like A Matchmaker: POWERED BY: JOIN mya! FOLLOW LINDSEY YOUNG-BULLOCK Luna Salon Instagram: Lindsey’s Coaching Instagram: LET’S CONNECT! BTT Instagram: MYA Instagram: FOLLOW KATI WHITLEDGE Instagram: Get my favorite bio-hacking products: SPONSORS Join the PBA:
/episode/index/show/katiwhitledge/id/40877150
info_outline
681: Accomplish Big Things: How to Actually Follow Through
04/16/2026
681: Accomplish Big Things: How to Actually Follow Through
Today, your host, Kati Whitledge breaks down how salon and spa owners can finally achieve big goals without becoming overwhelmed or quitting too soon. She challenges the belief that failure comes from lack of ability, revealing instead how “the gap” between where you are and where you want to be can create paralysis—and how daily action is the antidote. Kati walks you through the power of true commitment, identity shifts, and working backwards from your biggest vision into clear, repeatable daily habits. If you’re ready to stop overthinking, build confidence through consistency, and “win the day,” this episode will show you exactly how to move forward. WATCH ON YOUTUBE: GET MY BOOK! From First Date to Forever; How to Market Like A Matchmaker: POWERED BY: JOIN mya! LET’S CONNECT! BTT Instagram: MYA Instagram: FOLLOW KATI WHITLEDGE Instagram: Get my favorite bio-hacking products: SPONSORS Join the PBA:
/episode/index/show/katiwhitledge/id/40823600
info_outline
680: The Soft Skills That Separate the Top 1%
04/13/2026
680: The Soft Skills That Separate the Top 1%
In this episode, Kati sits down with Kellie Johnson to explore the soft skills that truly separate top-performing salon professionals and leaders. From confidence and happiness as learned skills to building trust, integrity, and emotional intelligence within teams, Kellie shares actionable strategies to elevate culture and client experience. They also dive into real-world lessons on hiring, training, and leading through change in today’s evolving salon landscape. If you want to strengthen your leadership and create deeper client connections, this is a must-listen conversation. WATCH ON YOUTUBE: GET MY BOOK! From First Date to Forever; How to Market Like A Matchmaker: POWERED BY: JOIN mya! FOLLOW ELAN HAIR STUDIO Instagram: Kellie’s Podcasts with us! LET’S CONNECT! BTT Instagram: MYA Instagram: FOLLOW KATI WHITLEDGE Instagram: Get my favorite bio-hacking products: SPONSORS Join the PBA:
/episode/index/show/katiwhitledge/id/40809975
info_outline
679: The Pursuit of Happiness Has Failed You
04/09/2026
679: The Pursuit of Happiness Has Failed You
In this episode, Kati challenges the idea that happiness is something to chase, revealing how the “pursuit” mindset can actually keep salon and spa owners feeling stuck, dissatisfied, and always behind. Drawing on the concept of “the gap,” she explains how constantly measuring yourself against an ever-moving ideal can create anxiety, burnout, and a lack of fulfillment—even when you’re making real progress. Instead, Kati shares a powerful shift: practicing happiness in the present by recognizing growth, celebrating small wins, and appreciating the simple moments that already exist in your life and business. You’ll walk away with practical strategies to build a culture of recognition, strengthen client and team relationships, and create a workplace where joy and progress can coexist every single day. WATCH ON YOUTUBE: GET MY BOOK! From First Date to Forever; How to Market Like A Matchmaker: POWERED BY: JOIN mya! LET’S CONNECT! BTT Instagram: MYA Instagram: FOLLOW KATI WHITLEDGE Instagram: Get my favorite bio-hacking products: SPONSORS Join the PBA:
/episode/index/show/katiwhitledge/id/40770525
info_outline
678: What’s Your Exit Policy?
04/06/2026
678: What’s Your Exit Policy?
Join us today as we sit down with Award-Winning Salon Owner Jennifer Alvarez to tackle one of the most overlooked yet critical systems in business: your employee exit policy. Jennifer shares how a painful team departure led her to build a clear, structured protocol that protects culture, client relationships, and revenue—while still honoring team members’ next steps. Together, they unpack the importance of proactive communication, legal protections like non-compete and non-solicitation agreements, and creating a win-win experience when employees leave. If you’ve ever felt blindsided by a team member’s exit or want to future-proof your salon, this conversation will challenge you to lead with clarity, confidence, and long-term vision. WATCH ON YOUTUBE: GET MY BOOK! From First Date to Forever; How to Market Like A Matchmaker: POWERED BY: JOIN mya! FOLLOW JENNIFER ALVAREZ Instagram: GET THE GUIDE: LET’S CONNECT! BTT Instagram: MYA Instagram: FOLLOW KATI WHITLEDGE Instagram: Get my favorite bio-hacking products: SPONSORS Join the PBA:
/episode/index/show/katiwhitledge/id/40730935
info_outline
677: How to Avoid Conflict, with Kati Whitledge
04/02/2026
677: How to Avoid Conflict, with Kati Whitledge
What if the very thing you’re trying to avoid is actually the key to your next level of growth? In this episode, Kati Whitledge challenges salon and spa owners to rethink conflict—not as drama to escape, but as a powerful driver of innovation, clarity, and leadership strength. She shares how avoiding conflict can quietly stall your culture, while healthy, values-driven confrontation builds respect, solutions, and momentum. You’ll walk away with practical strategies to lead through tension with confidence, ask better questions, and turn conflict into one of your greatest business advantages. WATCH ON YOUTUBE: GET MY BOOK! From First Date to Forever; How to Market Like A Matchmaker: POWERED BY: JOIN mya! LET’S CONNECT! BTT Instagram: MYA Instagram: FOLLOW KATI WHITLEDGE Instagram: Get my favorite bio-hacking products: SPONSORS Join the PBA:
/episode/index/show/katiwhitledge/id/40640790
info_outline
676: Be Great at Anything!
03/30/2026
676: Be Great at Anything!
In this episode of Beyond the Technique, Kati Whitledge sits down with award-winning salon owner Tonya Raybon to unpack her 15-year journey from bookkeeper to thriving salon CEO. Tonya shares why she transitioned from a booth rental model to a commission-based team, and how that decision transformed her culture, financial stability, and leadership impact. You’ll hear real, honest insights into letting go of hurt feelings when team members exit, learning through failure, and stepping fully into your role as a leader. If you’re ready to build a stronger, more unified salon business in 2026, this conversation will challenge and inspire you to lead with clarity, courage, and vision. WATCH ON YOUTUBE: GET MY BOOK! From First Date to Forever; How to Market Like A Matchmaker: POWERED BY: JOIN mya! FOLLOW SALON RAYBON Website: Instagram: LET’S CONNECT! BTT Instagram: MYA Instagram: FOLLOW KATI WHITLEDGE Instagram: Get my favorite bio-hacking products: SPONSORS Join the PBA:
/episode/index/show/katiwhitledge/id/40628580
info_outline
675: Complaining Culture Breakdown
03/26/2026
675: Complaining Culture Breakdown
Today your host, Kati Whitledge challenges salon owners and leaders to confront one of the most destructive habits in the workplace—complaining. She explains how a culture of constant negativity erodes social capital, repels high-value clients, and ultimately limits the growth potential of both teams and businesses. Kati shares practical strategies, including the “5-second rule” and healthier ways to vent, helping leaders redirect conversations toward solutions instead of problems. If you want to protect your salon culture and build a team focused on growth, ownership, and opportunity, this episode will give you the mindset shift you need. WATCH ON YOUTUBE: GET MY BOOK! From First Date to Forever; How to Market Like A Matchmaker: POWERED BY: JOIN mya! LET’S CONNECT! BTT Instagram: MYA Instagram: FOLLOW KATI WHITLEDGE Instagram: Get my favorite bio-hacking products: SPONSORS Join the PBA:
/episode/index/show/katiwhitledge/id/40583985
info_outline
674: Five Succession Planning Myths That Could Ruin Your Exit
03/23/2026
674: Five Succession Planning Myths That Could Ruin Your Exit
Succession planning isn’t something you wait for, it’s something you build, and in this episode, we have Mary Beth Berns here to break down the most disastrous myths that can derail your salon or spa exit. From the misconception that growth automatically increases value to the belief that finding a buyer means you’re almost done, they reveal what truly impacts a successful sale. You’ll learn realistic timelines, why financial clarity and proper maintenance matter, and how emotional decisions can cost you at the finish line. If you want to maximize your business value, protect your legacy, and exit on your terms, this conversation will show you where to start and how to do it right. WATCH ON YOUTUBE: GET MY BOOK! From First Date to Forever; How to Market Like A Matchmaker: POWERED BY: JOIN mya! FOLLOW MARY BETH BERNS Instagram: Salon Spa Connection: Qnity Succession Planning EDU: LET’S CONNECT! BTT Instagram: MYA Instagram: FOLLOW KATI WHITLEDGE Instagram: Get my favorite bio-hacking products: SPONSORS Join the PBA:
/episode/index/show/katiwhitledge/id/40568890
info_outline
673: Is the Glass Half Full? Get Thirsty, with Kati Whitledge!
03/19/2026
673: Is the Glass Half Full? Get Thirsty, with Kati Whitledge!
In this episode, Kati Whitledge explores the classic “glass half full or half empty” mindset and what it means for salon owners navigating real business challenges. She shares how leaders can shift their perspective from focusing on what’s missing to recognizing the opportunities, relationships, and resources already in front of them. Drawing from her own experience with team turnover and business changes, Kati encourages owners to take action with what they have while staying committed to growth and innovation. This conversation is a powerful reminder that optimism, resourcefulness, and faith-filled leadership can turn even difficult seasons into opportunities to build a stronger salon. WATCH ON YOUTUBE: GET MY BOOK! From First Date to Forever; How to Market Like A Matchmaker: POWERED BY: JOIN mya! LET’S CONNECT! BTT Instagram: MYA Instagram: FOLLOW KATI WHITLEDGE Instagram: Get my favorite bio-hacking products: SPONSORS Join the PBA:
/episode/index/show/katiwhitledge/id/40488165
info_outline
672: An Unlikely Entrepreneur, with Anson Whitledge
03/16/2026
672: An Unlikely Entrepreneur, with Anson Whitledge
In this special episode of Beyond The Technique, Kati Whitledge sits down with a very familiar guest—her husband, Anson Whitledge, VP of Operations at Inspired Enterprises—to share the unexpected journey that led him from electrical engineering and tech startups into the beauty industry. Anson opens up about growing up in rural Wisconsin, building early businesses in video production, and developing a deep passion for technology, systems, and now AI. Together, they share the behind-the-scenes story of how a chance salon visit (and an accidental bald spot!) sparked both a relationship and a business partnership. The conversation also dives into Anson’s bold decision to leave a stable corporate career to help Kati grow their salon and technology ventures—just months before the pandemic reshaped everything. Salon and spa owners will walk away with insights on resilience, partnership in business, and the power of combining technology, systems, and leadership to build something meaningful. WATCH ON YOUTUBE: GET MY BOOK! From First Date to Forever; How to Market Like A Matchmaker: POWERED BY: JOIN mya! LET’S CONNECT! BTT Instagram: MYA Instagram: FOLLOW KATI WHITLEDGE Instagram: Get my favorite bio-hacking products: SPONSORS Join the PBA:
/episode/index/show/katiwhitledge/id/40487400
info_outline
671: Best Questions for Employee Reviews, with Kati Whitledge
03/12/2026
671: Best Questions for Employee Reviews, with Kati Whitledge
In this episode, Kati Whitledge walks salon and spa owners through a modern, self-guided performance review process that empowers team members to assess their growth, goals, and impact. She shares how combining honest feedback, culture ratings, and clear review questions creates stronger alignment, better communication, and more meaningful development conversations. Kati also explains how understanding love languages at work and personalizing education plans helps leaders support their teams without burning them out. You’ll hear how mentorship recognition, engagement surveys, and thoughtful follow-ups can dramatically boost morale and retention. This episode is a practical blueprint for building a healthier, more growth-focused salon culture through intentional leadership and better reviews. WATCH ON YOUTUBE: GET MY BOOK! From First Date to Forever; How to Market Like A Matchmaker: POWERED BY: JOIN mya! LET’S CONNECT! BTT Instagram: MYA Instagram: FOLLOW KATI WHITLEDGE Instagram: Get my favorite bio-hacking products: SPONSORS Join the PBA:
/episode/index/show/katiwhitledge/id/40393945
info_outline
670: Bridge The Gap Between Salon Owners and Stylists
03/09/2026
670: Bridge The Gap Between Salon Owners and Stylists
In this powerful conversation, Kati sits down with third-generation cosmetologist and multi-location salon owner Rachel Thomas to unpack the real gap between salon owners and stylists—and why so many businesses struggle to become truly profitable. Rachel shares her raw journey through personal loss, financial hardship, and a near-death experience that forced her to rebuild her salon and her life with intention. Rachel challenges common industry beliefs about commission, rental, and hybrid models while exploring what it takes to create a high-ticket, high-margin salon built for longevity. Rachel reveals how mindset, KPIs, and luxury service positioning transformed her business and led her into coaching other owners through BYOB. This episode is a wake-up call for leaders ready to stop surviving and start building a salon that creates real wealth, opportunity, and freedom. WATCH ON YOUTUBE: GET MY BOOK! From First Date to Forever; How to Market Like A Matchmaker: POWERED BY: JOIN mya! FOLLOW RACHEL PAIGE! Instagram: LET’S CONNECT! BTT Instagram: MYA Instagram: FOLLOW KATI WHITLEDGE Instagram: Get my favorite bio-hacking products: SPONSORS Join the PBA:
/episode/index/show/katiwhitledge/id/40355735
info_outline
669: The Danger in Making Assumptions, with Kati Whitledge
03/05/2026
669: The Danger in Making Assumptions, with Kati Whitledge
There’s hidden cost to making assumptions. Today, you’ll hear how making assumptions will literally cost you financially, it will cost you time and resources, and it will cost you trust and relationships. Your host, Kati Whitledge, shares real examples of how assumptions fail us and what key principles we can apply to our leadership, communication and business practices to ensure we have great outcomes and the team feels everyone is on the same page. Please share today’s episode with industry leaders you work with and enjoy! WATCH ON YOUTUBE: GET MY BOOK! From First Date to Forever; How to Market Like A Matchmaker: POWERED BY: JOIN mya! LET’S CONNECT! BTT Instagram: MYA Instagram: FOLLOW KATI WHITLEDGE Instagram: Get my favorite bio-hacking products: SPONSORS Join the PBA:
/episode/index/show/katiwhitledge/id/40324050
info_outline
668: Don’t Be Afraid to Stand For What You Want
03/02/2026
668: Don’t Be Afraid to Stand For What You Want
In this episode, salon owner Jenny Jacome shares her honest journey of building a business that reflects her values, even when it meant making difficult decisions and standing firm in her vision. From navigating partnerships and hybrid salon models to launching a culture built on education and collaboration, Jenny reveals what she learned about leadership, boundaries, and trusting her instincts. She explains why clear agreements, structured onboarding, and unapologetic standards are essential for building a strong, aligned team. This conversation challenges owners to stop bending to every demand and instead design the salon they truly want to lead. If you’ve ever questioned whether you’re allowed to stand your ground as a business owner, this episode will give you the confidence to do exactly that. WATCH ON YOUTUBE: GET MY BOOK! From First Date to Forever; How to Market Like A Matchmaker: POWERED BY: JOIN mya! FOLLOW JENNY JACOME Instagram: LET’S CONNECT! BTT Instagram: MYA Instagram: FOLLOW KATI WHITLEDGE Instagram: Get my favorite bio-hacking products: SPONSORS Join the PBA:
/episode/index/show/katiwhitledge/id/40277865
info_outline
667: Is It Really About Who You Know?
02/26/2026
667: Is It Really About Who You Know?
In this episode, Kati challenges leaders to start building environments and relationships that raise their standards. She explains why goals may get you started, but standards are what actually shape your daily decisions and long-term results. You’ll learn how surrounding yourself with high performers can accelerate your growth, sharpen your thinking, and create a healthy pressure to execute at a higher level. Kati shares powerful stories about mentorship, proximity, and why one right relationship can collapse time and multiply opportunity. If you’re serious about growing faster, building smarter teams, and becoming the kind of leader high performers want to follow, this episode will raise the bar for how you think, choose, and lead. WATCH ON YOUTUBE: GET MY BOOK! From First Date to Forever; How to Market Like A Matchmaker: POWERED BY: JOIN mya! LET’S CONNECT! BTT Instagram: MYA Instagram: FOLLOW KATI WHITLEDGE Instagram: Get my favorite bio-hacking products: SPONSORS Join the PBA:
/episode/index/show/katiwhitledge/id/40232480
info_outline
665: The 2026 Hybrid Salon, with Michelle Senour
02/23/2026
665: The 2026 Hybrid Salon, with Michelle Senour
Salon and spa leaders, this episode explores what the 2026 Hybrid Salon really looks like and why so many owners are rethinking traditional commission-only models. Michelle shares her real journey of evolving from a large employee-based salon to a thriving hybrid space that blends commission stylists with renters — while protecting culture, standards, and education. You’ll hear practical strategies for hiring, onboarding, pricing rent, and managing shared logistics so hybrid models feel collaborative instead of chaotic. The conversation breaks down how transparency, mentorship, and structured systems create opportunity for stylists without sacrificing leadership or brand identity. If you’re wondering how to future-proof your salon, attract high performers, and design a model that gives both owners and providers more freedom, this episode gives you a clear blueprint. WATCH ON YOUTUBE: GET MY BOOK! From First Date to Forever; How to Market Like A Matchmaker: POWERED BY: JOIN mya! FOLLOW MICHELLE SENOUR Instagram: LET’S CONNECT! BTT Instagram: MYA Instagram: FOLLOW KATI WHITLEDGE Instagram: Get my favorite bio-hacking products: SPONSORS Join the PBA:
/episode/index/show/katiwhitledge/id/40196790
info_outline
664: Why You Don’t Have What You Want and How to Change That, with Kati Whitledge
02/19/2026
664: Why You Don’t Have What You Want and How to Change That, with Kati Whitledge
In this powerful episode, Kati challenges leaders to get radically clear about what they actually want, and why clarity is the first step to creating the life they’ve always imagined. She explains how your brain’s reticular activating system works, why your environment and media consumption matter, and how visualization and identity shifts accelerate real change. Kati shares her personal story of transformation, revealing why lasting results don’t come from quick fixes, but from deciding who you are and showing up as that person daily. If you’re ready to stop starting over, set better boundaries, and finally follow through long enough to see real results, this episode will reset how you think about goals, growth, and perseverance. WATCH ON YOUTUBE: GET MY BOOK! From First Date to Forever; How to Market Like A Matchmaker: POWERED BY: JOIN mya! LET’S CONNECT! BTT Instagram: MYA Instagram: FOLLOW KATI WHITLEDGE Instagram: Get my favorite bio-hacking products: SPONSORS Join the PBA:
/episode/index/show/katiwhitledge/id/40153890
info_outline
663: Meet The Unorthodox Stylist!
02/16/2026
663: Meet The Unorthodox Stylist!
Today we sit down with Allison Moncheck—award-winning hairstylist, educator, and owner of Unorthodox Salon—to unpack what it really means to build a career by doing things differently. Allison shares her unconventional journey from teenage cosmetologist to school counselor and back into the salon world, ultimately building a thriving business that prioritizes people over polish. You’ll hear how she grew from a two-chair “baby salon” into a multi-chair concept, launched a suite rental model, and created a viral Head Spa experience—all while staying true to her values. As a self-described introvert, Allison opens up about stepping outside her comfort zone, building a strong team culture, and defining success without comparing herself to others on social media. This episode is a must-listen for salon owners and stylists who want permission—and practical inspiration—to build a business that’s truly their own. WATCH ON YOUTUBE: GET MY BOOK! From First Date to Forever; How to Market Like A Matchmaker: POWERED BY: JOIN mya! FOLLOW ALLISON MONCHECK Instagram: LET’S CONNECT! BTT Instagram: MYA Instagram: FOLLOW KATI WHITLEDGE Instagram: Get my favorite bio-hacking products: SPONSORS Join the PBA:
/episode/index/show/katiwhitledge/id/40055720
info_outline
662: Retention is King--but where does it start, with Kati Whitledge
02/12/2026
662: Retention is King--but where does it start, with Kati Whitledge
In this episode, your host Kati Whitledge breaks down why client retention is the real growth engine for salon owners—and how increasing retention by just 5% can boost profitability by up to 95%. She explains why repeat guests spend more, stay longer, and why the second visit is the true tipping point for loyalty. Kati shares practical strategies to improve rebooking, follow-up, and client engagement using smarter systems and more personal communication. She also reveals how better client-provider matching (instead of “swipe-style” booking) dramatically improves long-term results, including real-world success stories. If you want fuller books, stronger relationships, and more predictable revenue, this episode gives you a clear, simple game plan. WATCH ON YOUTUBE: GET MY BOOK! From First Date to Forever; How to Market Like A Matchmaker: POWERED BY: JOIN mya! LET’S CONNECT! BTT Instagram: MYA Instagram: FOLLOW KATI WHITLEDGE Instagram: Get my favorite bio-hacking products: SPONSORS Join the PBA:
/episode/index/show/katiwhitledge/id/40017580
info_outline
661: Breaking Bad & Changing A Broken Model
02/09/2026
661: Breaking Bad & Changing A Broken Model
Celebrity Hairstylist and Salon Owner, Traci Barrett joins Beyond the Technique to share her powerful journey from answering phones in a corporate salon to becoming a renowned hair artist in LA—and ultimately building a purpose-driven salon in Phoenix. In this episode, Traci and Kati dive into rethinking the traditional salon model, from commission structures and team-based environments to eliminating fear-based leadership and non-compete culture. Traci reveals how her personal life challenges reshaped her vision and led her to build a salon rooted in mentorship, education, sustainability, and service. You’ll learn how she’s creating a new standard through a structured education pathway, inclusive hair design, and a hospitality-inspired client experience, including her innovative focus on scalp care and Head Spa services. If you’re a salon owner or leader who wants to build a modern, values-driven, and team-centered business that actually works, this episode will expand how you think about the future of our industry. WATCH ON YOUTUBE: GET MY BOOK! From First Date to Forever; How to Market Like A Matchmaker: POWERED BY: JOIN mya! FOLLOW TRACI BARRETT Instagram: LET’S CONNECT! BTT Instagram: MYA Instagram: FOLLOW KATI WHITLEDGE Instagram: Get my favorite bio-hacking products: SPONSORS Join the PBA:
/episode/index/show/katiwhitledge/id/40017550
info_outline
660: How to Make Smart Decisions, with Kati Whitledge
02/05/2026
660: How to Make Smart Decisions, with Kati Whitledge
In this episode, your host Kati Whitledge challenges salon and spa owners to rethink how they make decisions in a world full of distractions, pressure, and decision fatigue. She breaks down what “smart decisions” really mean—choices that align with your purpose, passion, and business objectives, and why every decision may not deserve your energy. You’ll learn how to slow down impulsive reactions, focus on what truly moves the business forward, and empower your leaders to own decisions in their areas of responsibility. Kati shares a simple but powerful four-question framework you can use for everything from hiring to new services and product offerings. If you want clearer thinking, better leadership, and more confident decisions that actually drive results, this episode is for you. WATCH ON YOUTUBE: GET MY BOOK! From First Date to Forever; How to Market Like A Matchmaker: POWERED BY: JOIN mya! LET’S CONNECT! BTT Instagram: MYA Instagram: FOLLOW KATI WHITLEDGE Instagram: Get my favorite bio-hacking products: SPONSORS Join the PBA:
/episode/index/show/katiwhitledge/id/39985155
info_outline
659: How to Walk Away Successfully, with Terra Harvell
02/02/2026
659: How to Walk Away Successfully, with Terra Harvell
In this episode, Kati sits down with Terra Harvell to talk about what it really means to build a salon you can actually walk away from—and why most salons are never truly sellable. Terra shares her journey from behind-the-chair to building scalable systems, including the hard lessons that led her to rethink commission models, leadership, and profitability. They unpack the concept of salon “roll-ups,” exit strategies, and how to increase enterprise value instead of creating another job for yourself. You’ll learn why only 2 out of 10 salons ever sell, and what needs to change if you want your business to be one of them. If you’re a salon owner who wants freedom, options, and a business that works without you, this conversation will challenge and inspire you to think bigger. WATCH ON YOUTUBE: GET MY BOOK! From First Date to Forever; How to Market Like A Matchmaker: POWERED BY: JOIN mya! FOLLOW TERRA HARVELL Website: Instagram: LET’S CONNECT! BTT Instagram: MYA Instagram: FOLLOW KATI WHITLEDGE Instagram: Get my favorite bio-hacking products: SPONSORS Join the PBA:
/episode/index/show/katiwhitledge/id/39959625
info_outline
658: Self-Confidence vs. Pride
01/29/2026
658: Self-Confidence vs. Pride
In this episode, your host Kati Whitledge explores the powerful and often misunderstood difference between self-confidence and pride—and why both can quietly shape the way you lead, grow, and relate to others. She explains how real confidence is built on competence, truth, and humility, while pride is usually rooted in insecurity, image, and the need to protect ego. You’ll learn the subtle behaviors that reveal when pride is creeping in, especially for high performers and fast-growing leaders, and how defensiveness can be an early warning sign. Kati shares practical, honest strategies for staying grounded, receiving feedback, and approaching others with both truth and respect. This conversation will challenge you to build “humble confidence” so your results, character, and relationships can all grow together. WATCH ON YOUTUBE: GET MY BOOK! From First Date to Forever; How to Market Like A Matchmaker: POWERED BY: JOIN mya! LET’S CONNECT! BTT Instagram: MYA Instagram: FOLLOW KATI WHITLEDGE Instagram: Get my favorite bio-hacking products: SPONSORS Join the PBA:
/episode/index/show/katiwhitledge/id/39915565
info_outline
657: The New Way to Motivate Your Stylists
01/26/2026
657: The New Way to Motivate Your Stylists
In today’s episode, Kati sits down with Blake Reed Evans to explore what modern leadership really looks like in today’s salon environment. Blake shares his journey from associate stylist to shareholder and salon owner, and how mentorship, education, and a clear growth path shaped his success. Blake breaks down a new model of salon ownership, team development, and why flexible schedules and evolving benefits are essential to attract and retain top talent. You’ll hear how Blake’s salon balances high standards with a supportive culture, adapts to generational shifts, and creates long-term stability for both owners and team members. This conversation is a must-listen for salon owners and leaders who want to build a sustainable business, grow future leaders, and elevate the team experience. WATCH ON YOUTUBE: GET MY BOOK! From First Date to Forever; How to Market Like A Matchmaker: POWERED BY: JOIN mya! FOLLOW BLAKE REED EVANS Instagram: TikTok: LET’S CONNECT! BTT Instagram: MYA Instagram: FOLLOW KATI WHITLEDGE Instagram: Get my favorite bio-hacking products: SPONSORS Join the PBA:
/episode/index/show/katiwhitledge/id/39876430
info_outline
656: Be Resilient, with Kati Whitledge
01/22/2026
656: Be Resilient, with Kati Whitledge
Resilience isn’t about avoiding stress, it’s about learning how to adapt, endure, and grow stronger through every season of business. In this episode, Kati breaks down the four inevitable seasons salon and spa owners face—growth, steadiness, decline, and drought—and explains why waiting for a “stress-free” season is a trap. You’ll learn how resilient leaders stay disciplined, protect their identity, and make clear decisions without letting fear or emotion drive permanent choices. This conversation will challenge you to see pressure as preparation and lead yourself and your team forward with clarity, ownership, and hope—no matter the season you’re in. GET MY BOOK! From First Date to Forever; How to Market Like A Matchmaker: POWERED BY: JOIN mya! LET’S CONNECT! BTT Instagram: MYA Instagram: FOLLOW KATI WHITLEDGE Instagram: Get my favorite bio-hacking products: SPONSORS Join the PBA:
/episode/index/show/katiwhitledge/id/39772525
info_outline
655: Fast Leadership with Jay Williams!
01/19/2026
655: Fast Leadership with Jay Williams!
In today’s episode behavior strategist, Jay Williams introduces his powerful “fast leadership” framework, breaking leadership down into three deceptively simple pillars: agreements, accountability, and alignment. He reveals why most leaders fail at holding people accountable, the critical difference between expectations and agreements, and how emotional intelligence elevates every conversation. Tune in to learn how to simplify your leadership approach, strengthen your team, and access the tools Jay recommends to accelerate your growth. WATCH ON YOUTUBE: GET MY BOOK! From First Date to Forever; How to Market Like A Matchmaker: POWERED BY: JOIN mya! FOLLOW JAY WILLIAMS Website: Previous Podcasts We’ve Done: LET’S CONNECT! BTT Instagram: MYA Instagram: FOLLOW KATI WHITLEDGE Instagram: Get my favorite bio-hacking products: SPONSORS Join the PBA:
/episode/index/show/katiwhitledge/id/39772460