Kelsey Morris & Abby Warther

The Messy Hairstylist

Business EN ↓ 119 episodes

Whether you are a mess literally OR figuratively we are here to help you take imperfect action to find your success as a hairstylist. Each week we deep dive in to tough topics to address the struggles we face in our industry. We push the boundaries, break the stereotypes and go hard against the "norms" that make us feel inferior.

Author

Kelsey Morris & Abby Warther

Category

Business

Podcast website

www.themessyhairstylist.com

Latest episode

Nov 20, 2025

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Episodes

Managing Overstimulation in the Salon 31.10.2024

Send a a Text- leave your name & email so we can respond! Feeling overwhelmed by the constant noise and energy of a bustling salon? You're not alone. After years of navigating the chaos, Kelsey finally found solace in a serene workspace, and she's excited to share how you can achieve the same peace of mind. This episode is packed with insights from Kelsey's personal journey, exp...

Navigating Chaos in Salon Expansion 24.10.2024

Send a a Text- leave your name & email so we can respond! In this episode, Kelsey Morris shares the behind-the-scenes of opening her new salon, Sydney Co 2.0. From her proudest achievements to the tough lessons learned along the way, Kelsey offers a candid look at the highs and lows of expanding her business. Tune in to hear how she navigated challenges, built a strong team, and created a spac...

Unplugged: Mastering Salon Boundaries 17.10.2024

Send a a Text- leave your name & email so we can respond! Ever feel like your phone is a ball and chain, keeping you tethered to work even when you're supposed to be off the clock? You're not alone. Many hairstylists face the challenge of setting boundaries with clients, fearing the risk of losing business or appearing unprofessional. In this episode, we share personal stories of how...

Part 2: Unpacking the WSJ Article—Your Reactions Revealed! 26.09.2024

Send a a Text- leave your name & email so we can respond! Back with a follow-up to the WSJ's take on salon pricing! This episode, Abby and Kelsey dive into your reactions from our recent reel discussing the article. We're addressing your comments and shedding more light on why hairstylists are justified in adjusting their prices in line with inflation. Join us as we continue the conv...

Inflation Everywhere, But Salons Dare? Setting the Record Straight! WSJ Part 1 19.09.2024

Send a a Text- leave your name & email so we can respond! Why the shock over salon price hikes? This episode, Abby and Kesley take on the Wall Street Journal's portrayal of rising salon prices in an article that subtly questions why hairstylists should adjust their rates amidst widespread inflation. We dive deep into the real costs and necessary adjustments hairstylists face to sustain th...

Keeping Your Salon Busy: Navigating Back-to-School Slumps 05.09.2024

Send a a Text- leave your name & email so we can respond! Struggling with the slow back-to-school season? Catch the latest episode of the Messy Hairstylist Podcast where we tackle seasonal slowdowns. Learn why business dips and how to navigate these challenges with effective strategies and creative promotions like "Mommy and Me" days. Plus, get details on the upcoming Blonde Catalyst...

Filling Chairs: Mastering Team Growth in Rental Salons 29.08.2024

Send a a Text- leave your name & email so we can respond! Ready to expand your team in a rental salon? Join Kelsey and Abby as they discuss strategies for attracting top stylists to your space. Learn how to highlight your salon's unique qualities, leverage glowing testimonials, and offer educational opportunities to create an attractive and supportive environment. This episode offers prac...

Top Tools and Tech Tips for Hair Stylists 22.08.2024

Send a a Text- leave your name & email so we can respond! Looking for tools that make salon life a breeze? Tune into our latest podcast episode where we dive into our current favorite gadgets and gear. We discuss how these essentials not only simplify our workflows but also enhance the overall salon experience. From cutting-edge styling tools to must-have salon tech, get the inside scoop on wh...

Creating Depth with Hair Color: Balayage, Foils, and Fall Trends 15.08.2024

Send a a Text- leave your name & email so we can respond! Ever wondered how to take your hair color from bland to breathtaking? Abby and I have got you covered! In this episode, we reveal the secrets behind adding depth to hair color using techniques like balayage, foils, shadow roots, and melts. We'll help you decode what clients really mean when they say they want to "go dark"...

The Fears of Hiring an Assistant 08.08.2024

Send a a Text- leave your name & email so we can respond! Hesitant about hiring an assistant? Dive into this episode of the Messy Hairstylist Podcast, where Abby shares how taking the leap transformed her business and increased client satisfaction. We discuss the fears many salon owners face—from disappointing clients to making strategic hires—and how Abby overcame these to find the perfect as...

Mastering Blonding and Boosting Your Business: Inside the Blonde Catalyst Tour 01.08.2024

Send a a Text- leave your name & email so we can respond! Ready to elevate your career? Unlock the secrets to mastering balayage and  foil techniques and gain invaluable business insights with our Blonde Catalyst Tour! Join us for an in-depth conversation about this transformative hands-on class and workshop, set to take place in Columbus, Ohio, on October 21st. Discover how this event is more...

The Secret Tricks and Little White Lies of Hairstyling 25.07.2024

Send a a Text- leave your name & email so we can respond! What if the secret to perfect hair lies in the quirkiest places? Join us on the Messy Hairstylist Podcast as we unveil surprising and hilarious methods hairstylists use to tackle stubborn hair issues.  Explore controversial posts, little white lies, and old-school tricks like Sweet and Low to keep clients happy. We discuss the practical...

Embracing Imperfection: Abby and Kelsey on Messy Growth 18.07.2024

Send a a Text- leave your name & email so we can respond! Ever wondered what it means to be a messy hairstylist? Tune in as we reflect on our journey from a cringeworthy first episode to a podcast gaining traction. We share the value of embracing imperfection, showing up messy, and growing through challenges. Join us for a candid discussion on authenticity, resilience, and why we started this...

Balancing Chaos: Kelsey and Abby's Return to Self-Care and Salon Life 11.07.2024

Send a a Text- leave your name & email so we can respond! Feeling overwhelmed and burnt out from the demands as a hairstylist? Take a breather with us on the Messy Hairstylist Podcast! We're back after a much-needed break to share our stories of juggling the chaotic end of the school year, family trips, and our bustling salons. Kelsey and Abby discuss the importance of self-care to avoid...

Who are you Learning from as a Hair Stylist? 09.05.2024

Send a a Text- leave your name & email so we can respond! Abby and Kelsey discuss the importance of vetting your mentors in an industry where "experts" and "leaders" abound. Thanks to social media and marketing, it's easy to assume someone's the best educator for you. But are they really? We discuss the backgrounds of different educators, questioning their experie...

PTO for Hair Appointments? Abby and Kelsey Weigh In. 02.05.2024

Send a a Text- leave your name & email so we can respond! In this episode, hosts Abby and Kelsey tackle a heated debate from social media about salon hours and client convenience. The spark? A viral TikTok rant about the lack of hairstylists working nights or weekends, forcing some to take PTO for hair appointments. We dive into the tough balance between meeting client needs and protecting our...

Crafting Stellar Salon Experiences: Kelsey and Abby's VIP Secrets. 25.04.2024

Send a a Text- leave your name & email so we can respond! In this episode, hosts Kelsey Morris and Abby Warther dive into the art of creating exclusive VIP experiences in the salon world. They share a treasure trove of strategies to make every client feel like a VIP, from invitation-only services that ooze exclusivity to personalized thank-you notes that acknowledge client loyalty and inspire...

Cutting Through the Myths: Mastering the Art of Salon Success 18.04.2024

Send a a Text- leave your name & email so we can respond! Join Kelsey Morris and Abby Warther as they debunk myths about what it really takes for hairstylists to be successful. In each episode, they tackle common misconceptions about pricing, client relationships, and the true art of hairstyling. From Abby’s  financial revelations to Kelsey’s insights on salon dynamics, they cover essential to...

Client Shaming in Hairstyling: Are You Guilty? 11.04.2024

Send a a Text- leave your name & email so we can respond! Dive into an honest chat with Kelsey Morris and Abby Warther on the subtle art of client conversations. We're tackling the touchy subject of client shaming, exploring the stigmas around box color and DIY hair jobs. This episode cuts through the old-school industry vibes to question if we're educating or just trying to keep cli...

Embrace Your Inner CEO: Leadership at Every Level in Salon Business. 04.04.2024

Send a a Text- leave your name & email so we can respond! Embrace Your Inner CEO: Leadership at Every Level in Salon Business. Join Abby Warther and Kelsey Morris, as we dive into why adopting a CEO mindset is key for success, whether you’re a solo act, a commission stylist, or an independent operator. We’ll discuss leading with confidence, setting clear boundaries, and making smart, strategic...

Crafting Connections in the Hair Industry with Lisa Huff 21.03.2024

Send a a Text- leave your name & email so we can respond! Do you feel like something is missing in your career as a hairstylist? Join us as we chat with Lisa Huff about building meaningful connections with like-minded hairstylists through her Stylist Soul Tribe community. Lisa’s journey shows how overcoming isolation can lead to a supportive network where sharing triumphs and challenges fuels...

Assistant U-Turn: Abby Reconsiders with Kelsey's Guidance 14.03.2024

Send a a Text- leave your name & email so we can respond! Abby's famous for saying she'd never work with an assistant again, but here we are! Looks like she's changing her tune and tapping into Kelsey's wisdom on the matter. In this episode, Kelsey gives Abby the lowdown in a coaching session on whether getting an assistant is the move. Tune in to hear how it all goes down...

Brand vs. Skill: What Truly Retains Clients as a Hairstylist? 07.03.2024

Send a a Text- leave your name & email so we can respond! What's the real secret to keeping clients coming back? It's not all about the flashy Instagram or the coolest salon on the block. We're diving deep into what really makes a stylist stand out: is it their personal brand or their knack for crafting the perfect cut and color? Join us as we explore the balance between showcas...

Exploring Paths: Navigating Success as a Newly Graduated Stylist 22.02.2024

Send a a Text- leave your name & email so we can respond! Ever found yourself at a career fork in the road, choosing between going solo or sticking with the traditional job route? This episode dives into that very choice for hairstylists, featuring a chat with Kelsey's assistant, Aubrey, about her jump into independent styling. We break down the big decisions new stylists face, from navig...

Side Hustle or Full Shears: Is a Second Job Necessary for Hairstylists? 15.02.2024

Send a a Text- leave your name & email so we can respond! Ever thought about juggling a side gig while building your  career as a hairstylist? In this episode, we're getting real about the hustle. We're talking financial ups and downs and the tricks to growing a loyal client base.  Abby's choice to stick solely to hair and to Kelsey's own journey from waitressing and the sa...

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