Beyond The Technique Podcast

Today we are going to look at key questions every leader needs answer to in order to grow and develop themselves as a leader. These lessons are inspired by The Making of a Manager by Julie Zhuo, emphasizing the importance of leaning into strengths rather than obsessing over weaknesses. Kati opens up about breaking limiting self-beliefs, sharing her own journey of overcoming childhood narratives and developing a growth mindset. She will walk you through practical reflection tools for identifying strengths, navigating imposter syndrome, and managing emotional triggers as leaders. Tune in to discover how self-awareness, honest feedback, and understanding your unique value can transform your leadership journey.   GET MY BOOK! From First Date to Forever; How to Market Like A Matchmaker: https://joinmya.com/from-first-date-to-forever-book    POWERED BY:  JOIN mya! joinmya.com   LET'S CONNECT! BTT Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beyondthetechnique MYA Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/j

Today, Kati welcomes Zac Miner and Dan Schmidt from Best 365 Labs to uncover how optimizing your mitochondrial health can transform energy, skin vitality, and longevity from the inside out. Designed for salon, spa, and med spa professionals, this introductory conversation simplifies the science behind biohacking and reveals why mitochondria—the body's "powerhouse cells"—are the key to improved wellness, recovery, and performance. Learn about groundbreaking supplements like methylene blue, NAD, and PQQ, and discover how enhancing mitochondrial function can elevate both your personal health and your clients' results. Tune in to hear Kati's personal experience, gain actionable insights for your business, and access exclusive offers and links for professionals and consumers in the show notes. TRY THE PRODUCTS| USE CODE KW10  GET A WHOLESALE ACCOUNT WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtu.be/otbv55KOrT8   GET MY BOOK! From First Date to Forever; How to Market Like A Matchmaker: https://joinmya.com/from-first-

What makes a leader truly empowering instead of overbearing? In this episode, Kati reveals ten traits of leaders who build trust, delegate with confidence, and inspire with vision and empathy. You'll learn practical strategies for active listening, respecting boundaries, and supporting your team's autonomy while still holding them accountable. Tune in to discover how empowering leadership can unlock growth, loyalty, and a thriving culture inside your salon or spa. WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtu.be/HhhTizw56hc   GET MY BOOK! From First Date to Forever; How to Market Like A Matchmaker: https://joinmya.com/from-first-date-to-forever-book    POWERED BY:  JOIN mya! joinmya.com   LET'S CONNECT! BTT Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beyondthetechnique MYA Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/join_mya/    FOLLOW KATI WHITLEDGE Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katiwhitledge/ Get my favorite bio-hacking products: CLICK HERE   SPONSORS Join the PBA: https://www.probeauty.org/

Get ready for an inspiring conversation with hairstylist, salon owner, and Masters of Balayage, stage educator, Emily Jones! She is here to share her industry journey that went from styling Barbie dolls to becoming a balayage, blonding, and hair extension expert. In this episode, Bringing Back the Why, Emily opens up about her passion for teaching, her transition from medical school to hair school, and how she discovered her true community in the industry. You'll hear how she stays grounded in her purpose while growing in her career and growing her family. Salon owners and leaders will walk away re-energized to reconnect with their own "why" and inspire their teams to do the same. WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtu.be/ekYc0pO5Hs4   GET MY BOOK! From First Date to Forever; How to Market Like A Matchmaker: https://joinmya.com/from-first-date-to-forever-book    POWERED BY:  JOIN mya! joinmya.com   FOLLOW EMILY JONES! Instagram:    LET'S CONNECT! BTT Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beyond

In this episode, Kati breaks down the ten traits of overbearing leaders, from micromanaging and excessive control to guilt-tripping and lack of empathy. She shares personal stories of struggling with one of the overbearing traits and highlights how these behaviors can stifle creativity, trust, and growth in a salon setting. Kati emphasizes the importance of balancing constructive feedback with encouragement, respecting boundaries, and letting go of the need to always be right. Listen and share today's episode with the leaders at your salon and spa! WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtu.be/recTxE_nmqI   GET MY BOOK! From First Date to Forever; How to Market Like A Matchmaker: https://joinmya.com/from-first-date-to-forever-book    POWERED BY:  JOIN mya! joinmya.com   LET'S CONNECT! BTT Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beyondthetechnique MYA Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/join_mya/    FOLLOW KATI WHITLEDGE Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katiwhitledge/ Get my favorite bio-h

In this episode, Kati Whitledge welcomes Danielle Anderson, a seasoned salon leader and hiring expert, to share her journey and insights from managing teams in the beauty industry. Danielle opens up about her rapid career growth, the challenges she faced post-COVID, and the leadership strategies that helped her build thriving salon cultures. She highlights the importance of hiring for values and cultural fit, using innovative approaches to foster strong teams and successful new salon launches. Listeners will gain practical tips on creating a code of honor, leading with emotional intelligence, and building confidence through challenges. WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtu.be/ol1D9qkazrI   GET MY BOOK! From First Date to Forever; How to Market Like A Matchmaker: https://joinmya.com/from-first-date-to-forever-book    POWERED BY:  JOIN mya! joinmya.com   LET'S CONNECT! MYA FOR PROS: https://www.instagram.com/mya_pros/  BTT Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beyondthetechnique MYA Instagram:

This episode explores the psychology of suggestion in marketing and its impact on consumer behavior. Kati shares how strategies like priming, social proof, and sensory cues influence clients to book, buy, and return. She highlights the importance of building trust through reviews, visuals, and in-person recommendations, while creating memorable luxury experiences through ambiance. Listeners will also learn why a single, consistent marketing message repeated across platforms increases impact—and how applying these principles can boost results, especially during high-demand seasons. WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtu.be/kAbRcpJUQCw   GET MY BOOK! From First Date to Forever; How to Market Like A Matchmaker: https://joinmya.com/from-first-date-to-forever-book    POWERED BY: JOIN mya! joinmya.com   FOLLOW KATI WHITLEDGE Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katiwhitledge/ Get my favorite bio-hacking products: CLICK HERE   LET’S CONNECT! BTT Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beyondthetec

In today’s episode, Kati welcomes Morgan Thomas, who you may know as Jade Beauty Co., to share her journey through the hairdressing and fashion industries. Together, they unpack the myth of work-life balance, highlighting Morgan’s shift toward integration and how she built a thriving career without experiencing burnout. Morgan also offers insights on the evolving landscape of hair education, the value of servant leadership, and why community and mentorship matter more than ever. Share this with your stylists and you will al be inspired by Morgan’s career lessons, humor, and practical advice. WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtu.be/3dnsmiPUvK0   GET MY BOOK! From First Date to Forever; How to Market Like A Matchmaker: https://joinmya.com/from-first-date-to-forever-book    POWERED BY:  JOIN mya! joinmya.com   FOLLOW MORGAN THOMAS! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jadebeautyco/  Website: https://jadebeautyco.com/    LET’S CONNECT! BTT Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beyondthetechn

In this episode, Kati explores the inevitability of offense in the creative industry and why learning to manage it is essential for personal and professional growth. She unpacks the value of constructive feedback, active listening, and assuming positive intent when receiving correction. With real examples and leadership insights, Kati highlights how humility, empathy, and trust create a culture where feedback becomes a tool for development rather than a source of conflict. Tune in to discover how reframing correction as direction can transform your team’s growth and your own leadership journey. WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtu.be/Kqe5xjlKMRo   GET MY BOOK! From First Date to Forever; How to Market Like A Matchmaker: https://joinmya.com/from-first-date-to-forever-book    POWERED BY: JOIN mya! joinmya.com   FOLLOW KATI WHITLEDGE Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katiwhitledge/ Get my favorite bio-hacking products: CLICK HERE   LET’S CONNECT! BTT Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/

The salon industry is shifting fast, with more stylists choosing self-employment and traditional salons struggling to compete. In this episode, Kati welcomes back business coach Nikki Le to share how owners can elevate the employee experience to retain top talent and thrive in this new market. From customized training to career ladders, Nikki breaks down practical strategies to create a workplace where stylists feel valued, supported, and inspired to stay. If you want to future-proof your salon and win against the booth rental trend, this episode is a must-listen. WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtu.be/m4g-MRC2GAo   GET MY BOOK! From First Date to Forever; How to Market Like A Matchmaker: https://joinmya.com/from-first-date-to-forever-book    POWERED BY: JOIN mya! joinmya.com   FOLLOW NIKKI LE Website: https://www.nikkileconsultancy.com/  Eleve Retreat: https://statements-strong.teachable.com/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nikkileconsultancy/ Listen to our first podcast together: 

Distractions don’t just steal your time, they drain your energy, creativity, and focus. In this episode, Kati shares her personal journey with ADHD, biohacking, and the power of reducing decision fatigue to stay in flow. You’ll discover practical strategies to automate routines, set boundaries, and manage technology so you can protect your energy and productivity. Whether you’re a salon owner or creative professional, this conversation will help you eliminate overwhelm and master focus for lasting success. WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtu.be/SlGz55I_PPI   GET MY BOOK! From First Date to Forever; How to Market Like A Matchmaker: https://joinmya.com/from-first-date-to-forever-book    POWERED BY:  JOIN mya! joinmya.com   FOLLOW KATI WHITLEDGE Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katiwhitledge/ Get my favorite bio-hacking products: CLICK HERE   LET’S CONNECT! BTT Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beyondthetechnique MYA Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/join_mya/    SPONSORS

In this episode, Kati welcomes industry coach and mentor, Misty Jane to share her bold perspective on money in the beauty industry. Misty reveals how she paid off $48,000 of debt in just two years, opening the door to a debt-free salon career and her current passion for coaching stylists. Together, they explore the deeper psychological roots of financial struggles, why income alone won’t save you, and how giving money a purpose leads to true freedom. Listen today for fresh insights, real strategies, and encouragement to pursue financial wellness as a form of self-care. WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtu.be/n5D5qBzjOZU   GET MY BOOK! From First Date to Forever; How to Market Like A Matchmaker: https://joinmya.com/from-first-date-to-forever-book    POWERED BY: JOIN mya! joinmya.com   FOLLOW MISTY JANE! Website: https://mistyjayne.com/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_mistyjayne_/    LET’S CONNECT! BTT Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beyondthetechnique MYA Instagram: https://www

In this episode, Kati shares how working with Brad Sugars and his ActionCoach franchise helped her achieve an 878% profit increase and a million-dollar revenue in a very small salon space. She dives into practical strategies to fix financial challenges, from boosting revenue through pre-selling gift cards, packages, and memberships to cutting unnecessary expenses without hurting the guest experience. You’ll also learn how tools like mya’s matchmaking software and dashboard can improve client retention and scheduling efficiency. Tune in for simple, actionable steps to protect your salon’s financial health and grow profits with confidence. WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtu.be/lYoY8umy4SQ   GET MY BOOK! From First Date to Forever; How to Market Like A Matchmaker: https://joinmya.com/from-first-date-to-forever-book    POWERED BY:  JOIN mya! joinmya.com   FOLLOW KATI WHITLEDGE Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katiwhitledge/ Get my favorite bio-hacking products: CLICK HERE   LET’S CONNECT

What does it take to build a beauty brand that truly empowers stylists? In this episode, Kati sits down with Tiffany Loe, founder of Christian Michael Hair Extensions, to talk about her journey from starving actress to single mom, to now thriving salon owner leading a multi-method hair extension company. Tiffany shares how she bridged the gap between luxury extensions and full-circle education, helping thousands of stylists gain confidence and new opportunities. Together, they explore salon growth, ethical hair sourcing, and Tiffany’s mission to build hub salons that empower stylists nationwide. WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtu.be/Ygg2ba6bcEQ   GET MY BOOK! From First Date to Forever; How to Market Like A Matchmaker: https://joinmya.com/from-first-date-to-forever-book    POWERED BY:  JOIN mya! joinmya.com   FOLLOW TIFFANY LOE! Website: https://www.christianmichaelhairextensions.com/  Tiffany’s IG: https://www.instagram.com/tiffanyloe/  Christian Michael Hair Extensions: https://www.in

In this episode, Kati uncovers the warning signs that a stylist may be leaving your salon and why addressing issues head-on is essential for a healthy team. She shares insights on managing growth as salons expand, including how shifting mindsets can affect culture. Kati also opens up about balancing directness with kindness in difficult conversations, offering practical ways to lead with courage and compassion. Listeners will walk away with strategies to strengthen team dynamics, honor professional boundaries, and focus on the stylists who are truly committed. WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtu.be/xvrJeUh_Mkw   GET MY BOOK! From First Date to Forever; How to Market Like A Matchmaker: https://joinmya.com/from-first-date-to-forever-book    POWERED BY:  JOIN mya! joinmya.com   FOLLOW KATI WHITLEDGE Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katiwhitledge/ Get my favorite bio-hacking products: CLICK HERE   LET’S CONNECT! BTT Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beyondthetechnique MYA Instagra

This episode is a must-listen for Salon Owners who want to take control of their financial future. Guest expert Kristin Stutz, a former Stylist and Salon Owner turned certified financial planner, shares how she helps owners connect the dots between business and personal finances. You’ll discover strategies for overcoming financial fears, building wealth with intention, and planning for both growth and eventual exit. Packed with real stories and actionable tips, this conversation will empower you to make confident, informed financial decisions for your life and salon. WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtu.be/D8uk8yYiZgE   GET MY BOOK! From First Date to Forever; How to Market Like A Matchmaker: https://joinmya.com/from-first-date-to-forever-book    POWERED BY:  JOIN mya! joinmya.com   FOLLOW KRISTIN STUTZ Website: https://www.illumefs.com/  Meet with Kristin: https://calendly.com/kstutz/discovery-session?month=2025-09  LinkedIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristin-stutz-cfp%C2%AE-052a226b/ 

The meeting after the meeting is the most important piece of the puzzle. In this episode, Kati pulls back the curtain on how her companies plan meetings and the meeting after the meeting. She shares her salon’s meeting structure—from daily GM check-ins to monthly gatherings that mix in professional development and celebration. You’ll hear smart strategies for debriefs, team collaboration, and even how to handle sensitive topics with ease. Plus, she shares fun anniversary promotions and simple tools that keep the whole team inspired, organized, and thriving. WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtu.be/cb8DlD-GRmU   GET MY BOOK! From First Date to Forever; How to Market Like A Matchmaker: https://joinmya.com/from-first-date-to-forever-book    POWERED BY:  JOIN mya! joinmya.com   FOLLOW KATI WHITLEDGE Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katiwhitledge/   LET’S CONNECT! BTT Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beyondthetechnique MYA Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/join_mya/    SPONSORS

This week on Beyond The Technique, Kati sits down with industry legend and Paul Mitchell Artistic Director, Stephen Moody, to explore what Gen Z stylists truly need to thrive. From shifting trends in hairdressing to the timeless power of consultation and communication, Stephen shares insights gained from a career shaped by Sassoon and fueled by a passion for education. You’ll hear why Gen Z clients crave authenticity, how stylists can balance creativity with financial success, and why the human connection in beauty can never be replaced by technology. Get ready for an inspiring conversation that bridges generations and reimagines the future of hairdressing. WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtu.be/f4ouJItyyWQ   GET MY BOOK! From First Date to Forever; How to Market Like A Matchmaker: https://joinmya.com/from-first-date-to-forever-book    POWERED BY:  JOIN mya! joinmya.com   FOLLOW STEPHEN MOODY Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hairmoody/     LET’S CONNECT! BTT Instagram: https://www.inst

In this episode, we explore the powerful truth that nothing is ever as good—or as bad—as it seems, especially when we’re viewing someone else’s life or success from the outside. We dive into how to shift your mindset, stop living in emotional extremes, and break free from the trap of comparison. You’ll learn how to self-evaluate with wisdom, stay grounded in truth, and focus on thoughts that fuel your growth. If you're ready to stop chasing perfection and start building a life that’s authentically yours, this episode is for you. WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtu.be/bNQcrh3K8dg   GET MY BOOK! From First Date to Forever; How to Market Like A Matchmaker: https://joinmya.com/from-first-date-to-forever-book    POWERED BY:  JOIN mya! joinmya.com   FOLLOW KATI WHITLEDGE Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katiwhitledge/   LET’S CONNECT! BTT Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beyondthetechnique MYA Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/join_mya/    SPONSORS Join the PBA: https://www.pr

From aspiring actor to Founder of Masters of Balayage, Ryan Weeden’s journey proves that passion and persistence can transform your career. In this episode, Ryan and Kati dive into the evolution of the hair industry—from fast-tracking behind the chair to building an education empire that now fills retreats and workshops nationwide. You’ll hear how Ryan carved out his niche, why mastering your craft matters more than titles, and what today’s salon owners must know to thrive beyond the influencer era. If you’re ready to be inspired by a story of reinvention, artistry, and entrepreneurship, this is one conversation you won’t want to miss. WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtu.be/eG_aGNtRZEw   GET MY BOOK! From First Date to Forever; How to Market Like A Matchmaker: https://joinmya.com/from-first-date-to-forever-book    POWERED BY:  JOIN mya! joinmya.com   FOLLOW MASTERS OF BALAYAGE Website: https://www.mastersofbalayage.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mastersofbalayage/  HERO RETREAT: