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.
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703: Lessons I've Learned Having Over 140 Employees
07/02/2026
703: Lessons I've Learned Having Over 140 Employees
Today, your host, Kati Whitledge shares the five biggest leadership lessons she learned after leading more than 140 employees over 16 years as a salon owner. From hiring the right people and protecting your culture to navigating team transitions with resilience and grace. If you've ever struggled with letting people go, taken employee departures personally, or questioned your strength as a leader, this conversation will give you practical perspective and renewed confidence to keep moving forward. Tune in to discover why your team can become your greatest teachers and how every leadership challenge can shape you into the owner your business needs. 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:
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702: Never Lose Sight of Your Vision
06/29/2026
702: Never Lose Sight of Your Vision
What happens when a salon owner stays true to their vision—even when it requires making difficult decisions and navigating unexpected challenges? In this episode, Chris shares her journey through salon ownership, leadership, expansion, setbacks, and ultimately creating a business that aligns with her values, purpose, and passion for wellness. Salon and spa owners will gain powerful insights on protecting their vision, avoiding burnout, making courageous leadership decisions, and building a business that supports both professional success and personal fulfillment. WATCH ON YOUTUBE: GET MY BOOK! From First Date to Forever; How to Market Like A Matchmaker: POWERED BY: JOIN mya! FOLLOW CHRIS GALEO Instagram: LET’S CONNECT! BTT Instagram: MYA Instagram: FOLLOW KATI WHITLEDGE Instagram: Get my favorite bio-hacking products: SPONSORS GlossGenius | Manage your business with ease. Use code BEYOND to save 50% on your first 2 months of Gold and Platinum plans: Join the PBA:
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701: The Gap Between Good and Great Stylists, with Kati Whitledge
06/25/2026
701: The Gap Between Good and Great Stylists, with Kati Whitledge
Today, your host, Kati Whitledge breaks down the five key differences between good stylists and truly great stylists, revealing why talent alone is never enough to build a standout career. Kati shares how the industry’s top performers invest beyond the bare minimum through advanced education, leadership, discipline, long-term client planning, and a willingness to grow even when no one is watching. Salon and spa owners, leaders, and beauty professionals will walk away with practical insights on developing a stronger culture, creating deeper client loyalty, and challenging themselves to stop settling for “good” when greatness is possible. 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:
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700: Hire Better, Stronger, Faster!
06/22/2026
700: Hire Better, Stronger, Faster!
In this milestone 700th episode of Beyond the Technique, Kati Whitledge interviews beauty industry innovator and Tippy co-founder Terry McKim about the future of hiring for salons and spas. Terry shares the inspiration behind his new company, IntroVu, a one-way video interview platform designed to help owners reduce no-shows, assess personality and communication skills earlier, and build a stronger pipeline of candidates before the in-person interview ever begins. Salon and spa leaders will gain insights into creating a more modern, efficient, and culture-focused hiring process that saves time while improving the quality of their team. WATCH ON YOUTUBE: GET MY BOOK! From First Date to Forever; How to Market Like A Matchmaker: POWERED BY: JOIN mya! FOLLOW INTROVU Website: LET’S CONNECT! BTT Instagram: MYA Instagram: FOLLOW KATI WHITLEDGE Instagram: Get my favorite bio-hacking products: SPONSORS In-Person Masterclass for Salon Owners: Register now to take advantage of the early bird savings! Go to Join the PBA:
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699: What are You Known For, with Kati Whitledge
06/18/2026
699: What are You Known For, with Kati Whitledge
For salon and spa owners and leaders, branding is far more than a logo or color palette—it’s the consistent experience, reputation, and message people associate with your business. In this episode, your host, Kati Whitledge shares how strong brands attract aligned clients and team members, build loyalty, and create clarity through consistent operations, marketing, hospitality, and culture. You’ll learn how to identify what your salon or spa should be known for, create unforgettable guest experiences, and ensure every touchpoint—from your website and social media to your team behavior and in-salon environment—reinforces your brand identity. 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:
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698: Profit is Personal, with Nina Tulio
06/15/2026
698: Profit is Personal, with Nina Tulio
Beauty industry speaker, consultant, and author Nina Tulio joins us today for an honest conversation about leadership, profitability, and the personal growth required to build a sustainable salon business. Inspired by Nina’s new book, Profit is Personal, this episode challenges salon and spa owners to stop chasing trends and start focusing on the systems, values, and self-awareness that truly drive long-term success. Nina also shares insights on pricing strategies, hiring with intention, and why leading from confidence instead of fear creates healthier teams, stronger cultures, and more profitable businesses. WATCH ON YOUTUBE: GET MY BOOK! From First Date to Forever; How to Market Like A Matchmaker: POWERED BY: JOIN mya! FOLLOW NINA! Instagram: Get her book: Listen to our podcasts: LET’S CONNECT! BTT Instagram: MYA Instagram: FOLLOW KATI WHITLEDGE Instagram: Get my favorite bio-hacking products: SPONSORS GlossGenius | Manage your business with ease. Use code BEYOND to save 50% on your first 2 months of Gold and Platinum plans: Join the PBA:
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697: Never Burn a Bridge, with Kati Whitledge
06/11/2026
697: Never Burn a Bridge, with Kati Whitledge
Kati’s here to share the importance of protecting your reputation, maintaining integrity, and never burning bridges in business or life. Kati shares personal experiences, real-world examples from the salon industry, and practical advice on handling difficult exits, gossip, conflict, and emotional decision-making with professionalism and grace. She also outlines actionable steps for repairing damaged relationships, rebuilding trust, and leading with humility, wisdom, and character in every season of leadership. 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:
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696: Revamp Your Hiring Process, with Jessi Ivey
06/08/2026
696: Revamp Your Hiring Process, with Jessi Ivey
In this episode of Beyond the Technique, Kati Whitledge sits down with salon owner, Jessi Ivey to break down the hiring strategies that helped grow a salon from two team members to over 25 and generate more than $2.5 million in revenue. Jessi shares how refining her hiring process with multiple interviews, shadow days, and clear expectations transformed her culture, improved retention, and supported rapid growth—even after launching during the pandemic. Salon and spa owners will learn how to build a strong team through structured hiring, ongoing education, and boundaries that create both accountability and long-term success. WATCH ON YOUTUBE: GET MY BOOK! From First Date to Forever; How to Market Like A Matchmaker: POWERED BY: JOIN mya! FOLLOW JESSI IVEY Website: Instagram: LET’S CONNECT! BTT Instagram: MYA Instagram: FOLLOW KATI WHITLEDGE Instagram: Get my favorite bio-hacking products: SPONSORS Join the PBA:
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695: How to Win Even When You’re Losing
06/04/2026
695: How to Win Even When You’re Losing
Today, your host, Kati Whitledge shares how true winning isn’t tied to perfect outcomes, but to the courage, discipline, and standards you maintain during seasons of loss. She challenges salon and spa owners and leaders to protect their mindset, stay committed to healthy routines, and continue creating momentum even when life feels difficult or uncertain. Kati also dives into the importance of faith, resilience, community, and personal growth, reminding listeners that some of the greatest lessons and breakthroughs are developed in the hardest seasons. 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:
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694: The Heart of Hospitality, A Salon Owner’s Story of Success
06/01/2026
694: The Heart of Hospitality, A Salon Owner’s Story of Success
In this episode, Kati sits down with top salon owner Sherri Belanger to explore “The Heart of Hospitality” and what it truly takes to create an elevated client experience that stands out. Sherri shares her journey from stylist to owner of a thriving 22-chair team-based salon, along with real insights on expansion costs, building with intention, and hiring for character over skill. Salon and spa owners will walk away with actionable ideas on designing unforgettable guest experiences, scaling sustainably, and reconnecting with their deeper “why” to lead and grow with purpose. WATCH ON YOUTUBE: GET MY BOOK! From First Date to Forever; How to Market Like A Matchmaker: POWERED BY: JOIN mya! FOLLOW BELLE SIRENE SALON Website: Instagram: LET’S CONNECT! BTT Instagram: MYA Instagram: FOLLOW KATI WHITLEDGE Instagram: Get my favorite bio-hacking products: SPONSORS Join the PBA:
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693: DISC Personality Profiles Explained, with Kati Whitledge
05/28/2026
693: DISC Personality Profiles Explained, with Kati Whitledge
Today, your host Kati Whitledge breaks down the DISC personality profiles and explains how salon and spa owners can use them to better understand communication styles, leadership approaches, and team dynamics. She walks through each type—D, I, S, and C—highlighting their strengths, challenges, and ideal roles within a salon environment, along with practical tips for leading each personality effectively. You’ll learn how to adapt your leadership style, improve hiring decisions, and unlock your team’s full potential by meeting people where they are. 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:
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692: Transform The World One Makeup Application At a Time
05/25/2026
692: Transform The World One Makeup Application At a Time
In this episode of Beyond the Technique, Kati Whitledge sits down with pioneering makeup artist Dina Ousley to explore her groundbreaking journey in the airbrush makeup industry. From working behind the chair to serving celebrity clients like Meryl Streep, Dina shares how innovation, resilience, and education helped her build DINAIR, a category-defining brand. She breaks down the science behind airbrush makeup, why it performs differently under HD cameras, and how challenging industry norms ultimately fueled her success. Salon and spa leaders will walk away inspired to embrace innovation, invest in education, and stay committed to their vision—even when others don’t see it yet. WATCH ON YOUTUBE: GET MY BOOK! From First Date to Forever; How to Market Like A Matchmaker: POWERED BY: JOIN mya! FOLLOW DINAIR Website: Instagram: LET’S CONNECT! BTT Instagram: MYA Instagram: FOLLOW KATI WHITLEDGE Instagram: Get my favorite bio-hacking products: SPONSORS Join the PBA:
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691: How to Work with People Who Annoy You, with Kati Whitledge
05/21/2026
691: How to Work with People Who Annoy You, with Kati Whitledge
In this episode of Beyond the Technique, Kati Whitledge challenges salon and spa owners to stop labeling people as “annoying” and start addressing the specific behaviors that disrupt team culture. She shares practical strategies for identifying common workplace triggers—like negativity, lateness, and poor accountability—and teaches leaders how to communicate directly, set clear boundaries, and elevate standards without criticism. This conversation will help you lead with emotional intelligence, turn tension into growth opportunities, and make confident decisions when behaviors don’t align with your culture. 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:
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690: Better Training, Bigger Profits!
05/18/2026
690: Better Training, Bigger Profits!
Today, we have the founder of Invisible Bead Extensions®, McKenzie Turley here to share how an education-first approach to hair extensions can transform both stylist performance and salon profitability. From losing her voice as an opera singer to pioneering Invisible Bead Extensions, McKenzie reveals how a commitment to research, technique, and mentorship filled a critical gap in the industry. You’ll learn why better training is the key to delivering superior results, increasing client trust, and multiplying revenue. Salon owners and leaders will walk away with a clear understanding of how to support their teams’ growth, implement higher standards, and unlock bigger profits through intentional education. WATCH ON YOUTUBE: GET MY BOOK! From First Date to Forever; How to Market Like A Matchmaker: POWERED BY: JOIN mya! FOLLOW MCKENZIE TURLEY AND IBE® Website: IBE® Instagram: McKenzie’s Instagram: LET’S CONNECT! BTT Instagram: MYA Instagram: FOLLOW KATI WHITLEDGE Instagram: Get my favorite bio-hacking products: SPONSORS GlossGenius | Manage your business with ease. Use code BEYOND to save 50% on your first 2 months of Gold and Platinum plans: Join the PBA:
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689: Nuances in Going from One to Two Salon Locations, with Kati Whitledge
05/14/2026
689: Nuances in Going from One to Two Salon Locations, with Kati Whitledge
Expanding from one salon to two is more than a business decision—it’s an emotional and strategic leap that requires clarity, capital, and courage. In this episode, Kati shares real-world insights on recognizing the right opportunity, why turnkey locations can be a gamechanger, and how to protect the culture of your original salon while building a second. She breaks down the importance of treating each location as its own entity while maintaining brand consistency, along with key financial and leadership considerations. If you’re thinking about scaling, this episode will help you move forward with intention—not just excitement. 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: FOLLOW JOHNNA BATES'S CURLY HOOD DRYERS! Instagram: SPONSORS Join the PBA:
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688: Keep Inspiring Your Team, with Sarah Carroll
05/11/2026
688: Keep Inspiring Your Team, with Sarah Carroll
In this inspiring episode, Kati sits down with rising salon owner and educator Sarah Carroll to unpack what it really takes to build and lead a thriving, motivated team. From starting in the industry at just 15 to opening and renovating a 3,000-square-foot salon at 23, Sarah shares the grit, risk-taking, and relentless drive behind her rapid success. She opens up about lessons learned in hiring, team structure, and creating a collaborative culture where stylists feel supported and inspired. This conversation will challenge you to lead boldly, invest in your team, and stop letting fear hold you back from building the salon you truly want. WATCH ON YOUTUBE: GET MY BOOK! From First Date to Forever; How to Market Like A Matchmaker: POWERED BY: JOIN mya! FOLLOW SARAH CARROLL Instagram: Salon: LET’S CONNECT! BTT Instagram: MYA Instagram: FOLLOW KATI WHITLEDGE Instagram: Get my favorite bio-hacking products: SPONSORS Join the PBA:
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687: How to Stay Positive No Matter What
05/07/2026
687: How to Stay Positive No Matter What
Today your host, Kati shares how salon and spa owners can stay positive without ignoring the real challenges of running a business. She breaks down how mindset, ownership, and emotional leadership directly impact your team culture and long-term success. You’ll learn simple but powerful strategies to reframe obstacles, manage tough emotions, and take action when things don’t go as planned. If you’re ready to protect your energy, lead with intention, and create a more positive environment for your team listen and share today’s episode! 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:
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686: The Power of Identity, with Kourtnee Jinright
05/04/2026
686: The Power of Identity, with Kourtnee Jinright
In this inspiring episode of Beyond The Technique, Kourtnee Jinright shares her journey from starting with zero experience to becoming a respected hairstylist, educator, and co-creator of Haus of Artisan. She opens up about overcoming isolation in the industry, embracing her identity, and building a collaborative community where artists can truly thrive. Kourtnee also dives into her unique ability to connect with clients through adaptive communication and her passion for education with Danger Jones. Salon owners and leaders will walk away inspired to lead with purpose, prioritize mental health, and cultivate a culture rooted in connection, growth, and authenticity. WATCH ON YOUTUBE: GET MY BOOK! From First Date to Forever; How to Market Like A Matchmaker: POWERED BY: JOIN mya! FOLLOW KOURTNEE JINRIGHT Instagram: Podcast: Danger Jones: LET’S CONNECT! BTT Instagram: MYA Instagram: FOLLOW KATI WHITLEDGE Instagram: Get my favorite bio-hacking products: SPONSORS GlossGenius | Manage your business with ease. Use code BEYOND to save 50% on your first 2 months of Gold and Platinum plans: Join the PBA:
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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:
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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:
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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:
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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:
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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:
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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:
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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:
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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:
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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:
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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:
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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:
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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:
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