Level Up with Lacey

Salon owners, I have a question for you… are you building a team of A players, or are you settling for GOOD ENOUGH?! Because here's the thing, my friends… YOU GET WHAT YOU TOLERATE! And sometimes the biggest thing holding our salons back isn't our goals, our revenue, or even our team… it's the standards we're allowing! After 13 years of owning Salon Lace and leading over 100 team members, I learned this lesson the HARD way! In today's episode, we're talking about why "good" is NOT good enough, how to stop avoiding those uncomfortable conversations, and how to intentionally build a team of A players who WANT to grow with you! I'm even sharing the exact words you can use to give feedback while still leading with LOVE! Because we are no longer accepting mediocre, my friends… we are striving for EXTRAORDINARY! 🎧 Tune in, and let's RAISE THE BAR together!! READY TO BUILD YOUR TEAM OF A PLAYERS?! Join me for my FREE LIVE Co-Stylist Confidence Workshop! We're talking about how to find, hire, and train incredible…

Have you ever looked at another salon owner and thought, “What in the HELL is she doing differently than me?!” 🤯 She's growing her team, making more money, taking vacations, and somehow running a salon that doesn't require her to be there 24/7. Meanwhile, you're over here wondering how you're going to make payroll next week. WHAT DOES SHE KNOW THAT YOU DON'T?! After 13 years of salon ownership, leading over 100 team members, and coaching salon owners across the country, I've noticed FIVE things successful salon owners consistently do differently. And in today's episode, I'm breaking them ALL down. 👏🏼 We're talking about hiring, making decisions without needing everyone's approval, investing in yourself, getting into your numbers, and why FAILURE might actually be one of your greatest advantages. But here's the catch… I'm not just giving you five things to think about. I'm challenging you to RATE YOURSELF and identify exactly what's holding your salon back. Because listening to another podcast isn't going to…

I thought I was prepared to sell my salon. I prepared the documents. I negotiated the agreement. I transferred the accounts. I made the lists. I handled ALL the things. But I never prepared my heart for what it would feel like when Salon Lace was officially no longer mine. In Part 4 and the FINAL episode of The Truth About Selling My Salon, I’m taking you into the part of this process that no contract, checklist, or Letter of Intent could have prepared me for. I’m sharing what closing day actually looked like, what happened when I sat alone in the bank parking lot holding the check from the sale of the business I spent 13 years building, and why I completely fell apart. We’re also talking about transitioning the team, clients, accounts, and responsibilities, creating boundaries after the sale, and one of the biggest questions I had to face: Who am I if I’m no longer a salon owner? This episode is raw, emotional, and probably one of the most personal I’ve ever shared. Because you can KNOW you made the right…

Nine months. That’s how long it took me to finally get brave enough to publicly say that Salon Lace was FOR SALE. And wouldn’t you freaking know it… the Facebook post I was TERRIFIED to publish is ultimately what sold my salon. 🤯 In Part 3 of The Truth About Selling My Salon, I’m taking you behind the scenes of actually finding the right buyer. We’re talking about why I chose not to use a broker, the fear that kept me from publicly listing the salon, why I turned down THREE offers, how I screened potential buyers, and how freaking Facebook Marketplace connected me with the woman who ultimately bought Salon Lace. I’m also breaking down the Letter of Intent, earnest money, due diligence, addendums, and one of the BIGGEST lessons I learned through this entire process: PUT. IT. IN. WRITING. 👏🏼 This episode is about so much more than selling a salon. It’s about trusting your gut, letting go of what other people might think, and having enough courage to wait for the right YES. Sometimes the opportunity you’ve been…

When you think about selling a salon, you probably think about the obvious things… chairs, mirrors, shampoo bowls, equipment, and inventory. But after 13 years of building Salon Lace, I quickly realized the REAL value of my business went way beyond the things you could physically see. In Part 2 of The Truth About Selling My Salon, I’m taking you behind the scenes of exactly how I prepared, valued, and positioned Salon Lace to sell. We’re talking about: ✨ How I determined if my salon was actually ready to sell ✨ The difference between a business being valuable vs. transferable ✨ The SDE formula I used to determine my asking price ✨ Why my sale was structured as an asset sale ✨ What was—and WASN’T—included in the sale ✨ The digital assets you probably aren’t thinking about ✨ Why EVERYTHING needs to be put in writing ✨ The professionals I leaned on throughout the process And let me tell you… there were SO many things I didn’t know before going through this myself!!! If selling your salon is something you’re…

Four years before I sold my salon, I sat at my kitchen counter and said the words out loud for the very first time… “I think I’m ready to sell the salon.” And here’s the part most people don’t know: Salon Lace wasn’t failing. It was THRIVING. Back in January, I released an episode called “I’m Selling My Salon” when I first told you guys I was officially in the process of selling. At the time, I knew WHY I was ready... but I had no idea how the story would end. 🎧 Haven’t listened to that episode yet? Go back and listen here It will give you the full backstory and let you hear exactly where my head and heart were at before I knew who would buy the salon, what the sale would look like, or everything that was about to happen. And now… the papers are signed, the salon has a new owner and a new name, and I can FINALLY tell you the entire story!!! In Part 1 of The Truth About Selling My Salon, I’m taking you behind the scenes of WHY I made the decision to sell the business I spent 13 years building. We’re talking…

I’M BACK!!!! 🎙️ And you guys… I have SO much to tell you. This summer, I did something I never expected to do... I took 146 days off from my normal work schedule. What started with a childcare situation completely changing turned into one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. I spent the summer with my kids, stepped away from constantly creating something new, and learned A LOT about what it actually looks like to build a business that supports your life—not a life that revolves around your business. In this episode, I’m sharing how LG Education continued running while I stepped back, why repurposing content was a GAME CHANGER, what this summer taught me about motherhood and business, and why I’ve officially decided I’ll never work another summer the way I used to. And maybe the craziest part? Stepping away didn’t make me lose momentum. I came back more rested, creative, inspired, and excited about what’s next than I have felt in a LONG time. If you’re a salon owner, business owner, or working mom who feels…

Running a salon while still taking clients? Whew… it's A LOT. Between answering DMs, managing your team, placing color orders, handling client schedules, folding towels, and somehow remembering to eat lunch… it's no wonder your brain feels like it has 462 tabs open. In this episode, I'm sharing the exact time management systems, habits, and boundaries that completely changed the way I run my business… and honestly, my life. These are the strategies that helped me stop feeling reactive, protect my time, and create more freedom without stepping away from the chair. In this episode, we'll cover: ✨ Why your time management is directly connected to your salon's success ✨ The mindset shift that changed everything for me (and my family) ✨ The 3 non-negotiables I live by every single day ✨ How to build your Ideal Week without chasing perfection ✨ Why the Daily Big 3 will help you stop feeling overwhelmed ✨ My Workday Startup & Shutdown Rituals for more focus and less stress ✨ Simple productivity hacks that save…

Let me tell you something... your salon culture is EVERYTHING when it comes to growing a strong, loyal, and high-performing team. It's what keeps your stylists engaged, motivated, and OBSESSED with being a part of your business. And guess what? YOU get to decide what your culture looks and feels like! In this episode, I'm pulling back the curtain on: ✅ What culture REALLY means and why it's the backbone of your business ✅ How my own culture was a MESS in 2018/2019 and the hard lessons I learned ✅ Proven strategies to make work FUN, engaging, and a place your team LOVES to be ✅ The biggest mistakes salon owners make with culture (and how to fix them!) Culture doesn't happen by accident—it happens by DESIGN! Listen in now, and let's design a culture that fuels your success! Suggest podcast topics ⤵️ https://forms.gle/AzRucZytSzStYy1aA

What's your biggest fear about hiring an assistant? For most salon owners, it isn't finding someone... it's investing time, money, and energy into training them only to have them leave. In this episode, I'm sharing the mindset shift that completely changed the way I look at hiring and growing a team. We talk about why fear keeps so many salon owners stuck, why courage comes before confidence, and how to stop letting the "what ifs" hold you back from building the business you actually want. If hiring has been on your mind, this episode is one you don't want to miss. ✨ The biggest hiring fear salon owners face ✨ Why fear is keeping you stuck ✨ How to stop taking turnover personally ✨ Why growing a team creates more freedom and opportunity ✨ The mindset shift that changed everything for me If this episode encouraged you, be sure to share it with another salon owner who needs to hear it!!

Grab your FREE LG Education Tracker here ⤵️ https://lg-education.kit.com/79e22eb54f One of the questions I get asked all the time is… "Should I pay for my assistant's education and certifications?" In this episode, we're diving into one of the biggest debates in the salon industry. Should salon owners cover the cost of extension certifications, education, and training? Or should assistants be responsible for investing in their own careers? I'm sharing exactly how we've approached this in our salon, why I believe ownership matters, and how you can support your assistants without taking on the entire financial responsibility. ✨ Should You Pay for Extension Certifications? Why my answer is usually no—and why learning to invest in themselves is one of the greatest lessons you can teach an assistant. ✨ The 90-Day Reimbursement Strategy A simple system that rewards commitment while protecting your business and encouraging long-term growth. ✨ Your Apprenticeship Is Already an Education Your assistants are learning…

If you've ever told yourself, "I'll start Monday," "I just need more motivation," or "I can't seem to stay consistent," this episode is for you. This week on The Level Up with Lacey Podcast, I'm joined by the very first repeat guest in podcast history, Jess from White Fox Styling! 🎉 We're diving into the daily rituals, habits, and routines that have completely transformed not only our businesses, but our lives. From morning routines and Sunday prep to nutrition, sleep, discipline, and personal development, we're talking about the small things that create BIG results over time. In this episode, we discuss: ✨ Why daily rituals can change your life ✨ The truth about motivation vs. discipline ✨ Morning and evening routines that set you up for success ✨ Why protein, sleep, and movement matter more than you think ✨ How leaders can coach by example ✨ The power of personal development for salon owners and teams ✨ Getting back on track when life happens ✨ Breaking free from the all-or-nothing mindset ✨ Creating…

If your salon team has been showing up a little too casual lately, you’re not imagining it… and you’re definitely not alone! In this episode, we're getting real about that moment every salon owner dreads: when your once-polished, on-brand team starts looking more “Sunday Target run” than “$100/hour luxury service.” But don’t worry… we’re not here to shame anyone or stir up drama. We’re here to fix it with love, leadership, and zero nagging. If you've ever looked around your salon and thought, "How do I address this without hurting feelings?" this episode is for you. In this episode, you'll learn: ✨ How to have dress code conversations without making them uncomfortable ✨ Why seasonal reminders matter more than one-time policies ✨ How visual examples can eliminate confusion ✨ A simple self-assessment exercise your team can use ✨ Ways to create a culture where presentation and professionalism matter ✨ The importance of hygiene, effort, and showing up as the professional you are Because at the end of the day...…

Let's have a real conversation today... If you've ever felt stuck, second-guessed yourself, worried about what other people might think, or hesitated to make a big move in your business because it felt scary AF... this episode is for you. I'm sharing some personal stories, lessons I've learned through building my business, and the reality of what it takes to grow. Because the truth is, success isn't reserved for the lucky few. It's available to the people willing to take calculated risks, bet on themselves, and keep moving forward even when fear shows up. In this episode, we'll chat about: - Why building a strong team can completely change your business and your life - The relationship between risk and reward - How to handle criticism without letting it derail you - Why staying busy and focused matters when self-doubt creeps in - The importance of having a strong support system around you - How to stop letting fear make decisions for your future At the end of the day, everything you've been wanting the…

We are doing something a little new and exciting this summer!! This episode is part of our Summer Replay Series. ☀️ Where we’re bringing back some of the most downloaded, most shared, and most impactful episodes in The Level Up with Lacey Podcast history. These are the conversations that sparked huge breakthroughs, major mindset shifts, and BIG lightbulb moments for salon owners everywhere… and this one is absolutely worth revisiting. Your stylists want full books… but they’re refusing to market themselves… If you’re constantly reminding your commission team to post on social media, share openings, take photos, make reels, or simply show up online… this episode is for YOU. Because here’s the truth: In 2026, social media is no longer optional for hairstylists. It’s part of the job. In this episode, we’re talking about: ✨ What to do when stylists say they “hate social media” ✨ How to stop feeling like you have to babysit grown adults ✨ The difference between being overwhelmed vs. unwilling ✨ Why unclear…

Let’s talk about one of the BIGGEST fears salon owners have when growing a team… “How do I put a brand-new stylist on the floor without clients freaking out?” Because the truth is… most salon owners are terrified that the second a guest hears the word “new”, they’ll immediately assume inexperienced, low quality, or risky. But here’s the reality: Your fully booked senior stylist was once the stylist nobody knew about yet too. In this episode, I’m breaking down exactly how to confidently launch a new talent stylist, how your front desk should position them, how to market them online, and how to fill their books FAST… without making them sound “cheap” or inexperienced. We’re talking about: ✨ The luxury language your front desk SHOULD be using ✨ What NOT to say when booking new talent ✨ How confidence from your team directly impacts guest trust ✨ The exact mindset shift salon owners need to make ✨ Social media and website ideas to market emerging stylists ✨ How to use availability and intro pricing strategically…

This one might hit a nerve… but we’re saying it anyway. Assistants are SLOW in the beginning. That’s normal. That’s expected. That’s part of the process. But here’s where things start to go sideways…They stay slow—and you start getting frustrated—without ever giving them a clear target to work toward. In this episode, I’m breaking down the difference between normal beginner slowness and a full-blown training gap… and what you need to fix ASAP if you want your assistants to actually improve. We’re talking about: Why “pick up the pace” is NOT real direction (and what to say instead) The exact moment you should start focusing on speed in your training program How reps + timing + pressure = confidence (and faster assistants) The biggest mistake salon owners make when it comes to assistant growth My simple system to build speed without sacrificing skill Because here’s the truth… Speed is a skill. And skills are built with reps and clear expectations. If you don’t have timing standards, structure, or urgency built…

If I had to rebuild my salon from the ground up… I wouldn’t do ten things differently. I’d do THREE. That’s it. Because when I look back, most of the struggles I went through weren’t random… they were the result of what I wasn’t doing yet. In this episode, I’m breaking down the three things that would have changed everything for me sooner—and will for you too. We’re talking about: Why hiring from desperation will always cost you more (and what to do instead) The systems I wish I started YEARS earlier... and how they remove you as the bottleneck The real reason your team might feel “off”… and how to fix it with one shift This episode is simple, but powerful. Because these three things build on each other: The right people. The right structure. The right direction. If you’re feeling overworked, doing everything yourself, and stuck wondering where to even start… this is for you. Pick ONE thing from this episode and start there. That’s how everything begins to change. And if that one thing is systems… My…

Let’s be real for a second… How many decisions are you NOT making right now because of what someone might think? Raising your prices. Changing your schedule. Having that hard conversation. Starting something new. Instead… you overthink it. Sit on it. Push it off. I’m calling this out because I’ve caught myself doing the SAME thing lately. And I know I’m not the only one. So today, we’re talking about the fear of what people think and how it might be quietly running your business behind the scenes. Not to tell you to stop caring… because that’s not realistic. But to make sure it’s not the reason you stay stuck or keep playing small. Because here’s the truth: You can either build a business that makes sense to everyone else… or one that actually moves you forward. Most of the time, you don’t get both. This fear tends to show up in three big areas... your clients, your team, and people in the industry. With clients… you’re undercharging, overworking, and second-guessing everything.You’re scared to raise prices,…

The one-hour weekly habit that changed everything in my business. Alright… we made it to the FINAL Money Monday 😭 And I’m not letting you leave this series without something you can actually implement immediately. I’m giving you my exact monthly profit margin spreadsheet — the same one I use in my business… every single month. And here’s the best part… I only track THREE numbers. Simplicity Wins. Always. I know so many salon owners think they need complicated systems…P&Ls, dashboards, all the reports… But the truth? You don’t need more complexity… you need simplicity + consistency. The Only 3 Numbers That Matter Every month, I track: Revenue (what came in) Expenses (what went out) Profit (what’s actually yours to keep) Profit Margin % (how much you’re actually keeping) That’s it. That’s the system. Because here’s the reality… I don’t care how big your revenue is if you’re barely keeping anything. You can do $500K… $700K… even $1M… But if you’re only keeping a tiny percentage? We have a problem. Let’s Talk…

Credit cards are either one of the most powerful tools in your business… or the fastest way to completely wreck your finances. And the truth is… most salon owners fall into one of two categories. They either avoid credit cards completely… or they use them with absolutely no system at all. Inside today’s Money Monday, I’m pulling back the curtain on exactly how I use credit cards inside my businesses, why they’ve become such a powerful financial tool for me, and the simple rules that keep them from ever turning into a financial disaster. Because here’s the truth… Credit cards don’t create financial chaos — a lack of discipline does. When used intentionally, credit cards can actually work for your business, not against it. From points to travel perks, I’m sharing how I run my normal business expenses through my cards and how that strategy has earned me free flights and even a Southwest companion pass. But there’s a catch… and it’s a BIG one. I also share the five non-negotiable rules I follow with credit cards…

Welcome back to Money Monday — the series where we talk about the numbers, habits, and financial systems that most salon owners avoid… but desperately need to understand. In this episode, I’m walking you through exactly what I do with every single dollar that hits my business bank account — the weekly system that completely changed the way I run my salon. Quick disclaimer before we dive in: I’m not a Profit First coach and I’m definitely not a financial advisor. I’m simply a salon owner who implemented the Profit First system by Mike Michalowicz, and it has completely transformed the way I manage money inside my business. Inside this episode I break down: 💰 The Profit First philosophy and why most entrepreneurs operate with a “leftover mentality” 💰 Why the system uses multiple bank accounts (and why this simple trick works with your brain) 💰 The 5 core bank accounts every business should have 💰 How separating your money creates instant clarity and discipline 💰 The difference between CAPS (Current Allocation…

Being fully booked does NOT mean you’re profitable — and some of the busiest salon owners I know are the most financially stressed. In our very first Money Monday, we’re talking about the numbers and habits salon owners avoid but absolutely need if they want real financial freedom. This episode is all about the one-hour weekly habit that completely changed how I run my business and how I feel about my money. What We Are Talking About: Revenue vs. Profit — why big revenue can still leave you feeling broke. Why being fully booked means nothing if your pricing, productivity, and payroll aren’t aligned. My exact Monday Money Ritual that keeps me calm, clear, and in control. The simple 3 numbers I track monthly to make confident business decisions. Why avoiding your numbers is the fastest way to stay stuck. The Truth Bomb: Busy is not a strategy. Profit margin is. When you start looking at your numbers weekly instead of emotionally reacting to your bank account, everything shifts — your confidence, your clarity,…

Because let’s be honest… Every salon owner has one. Had one. Or is currently avoiding one. 👀 If you’ve ever had a team member who: – Doesn’t listen – Pushes back on feedback – Skips meetings – Gossips – Drains your energy – Is wildly talented but slightly (or very) toxic This episode is for you. When you first open a salon, you think leadership is: - Hiring cool people - Training your team - Celebrating wins - Posting team photos And then reality hits. Leadership is actually: – Hard conversations – Clear boundaries – Documentation – Emotional regulation – Being okay with not being liked – And holding it together when you low-key want to scream. In this episode, I break down the 3 REAL reasons someone feels “challenging”: Lack of Clarity – No standards. No systems. No follow-through. Skill Deficiency – They were never trained properly. Character Issue – Gossip. Negativity. Entitlement. Misalignment. And then I walk you through my 5-Step Framework for handling difficult team members with confidence (and…

You say… “Not having enough time to train well.” “The time it takes to train.” “Not enough time in the day.” “My time is valuable and it takes time to train.” “No time to train.” Sound familiar? 👀 In this episode, I’m lovingly calling you out. Because I get it. I lived it. I built my salon in the “I’ll train when things slow down” era… and guess what? Things never slowed down. We’re diving into the truth behind the “no time” excuse and what’s really going on underneath it: Why busy feels safe (even when it’s burning you out) The fear that keeps you doing everything yourself How short-term comfort is costing you long-term freedom The systems mistake that’s keeping everything running through you Why “time isn’t found… it’s chosen” If you keep saying you don’t have the time to train… What you’re really saying is that staying busy feels safer than slowing down. And that’s the lie. You don’t need more hours. You need to operate with intention and SLOW DOWN… TO SPEED UP. No one is coming to hand you more time. No…

Ever caught yourself thinking (or saying 😬): “My assistant is lazy.” “They don’t take initiative.” “I’ve told them a hundred times and nothing changes.” Can we please have an honest conversation. In this episode, I’m breaking down one of the biggest misconceptions in the salon industry and it might be the ONE THING that is keeping you exhausted, frustrated, and stuck doing everything yourself. 👉🏼 Most assistants are NOT lazy… they’re lost. When there’s no clear structure, expectations, or path for growth, assistants are left guessing. And guessing looks like hesitation. It looks like waiting. It looks like what we label as “lazy.” In this episode, we talk about: Why clarity creates confidence The real reason assistants “don’t care” and why it’s usually not personal How “winging it” in training is costing you time, energy, and money What assistants actually need to succeed, stay, and grow Why doing everything yourself feels easier… but keeps you burnt out If you’re already stretched thin, your body is tired,…

…and this episode might be the most honest one I’ve ever recorded. This was not an overnight decision. This has been four years in the making, and inside this episode I’m sharing the real story behind it. In this episode, I walk you through: The one decision I made at 23 years old that created every ounce of freedom I have today Why stepping away from behind the chair was the hardest and best move I ever made How Salon Lace grew 118% after I removed myself as the bottleneck The huge identity shift that no one talks about when you outgrow a season And how hiring my very first assistant changed the trajectory of my entire life and career I’m also sharing the emotional moment, sitting at my kitchen counter as a brand new mom, when I said out loud for the first time, “I think I want to sell the salon.” In a moment that the salon was doing so damn well… so why did I feel the need and want to sell it? It didn’t make sense. If you’ve ever: Felt stuck behind the chair Known you need help but don’t know where to…

Before we dive in, I want to personally invite you to my upcoming free live training — The Co-Stylist Confidence Workshop!! It is BACK and better than ever!! If your goals this year include hiring stylists, working less behind the chair, making more money, and building real systems in your salon, this training is for you! Inside the workshop, I’m teaching: A simple way to pay a Co-Stylist or assistant My 39-week assistant training outline How to create work-life balance as a salon owner When you show up live, you’ll also get a copy-and-paste Google Sheet with my actual systems from Salon Lace — plus my social media batching training in the first few minutes. 👉🏼Save your seat here: https://lg-education.mykajabi.com/costylistconfidenceworkshop1?utm_source=Podcast&utm_medium=Episode+163 Now let’s get into today’s episode. I hear this fear from stylists and salon owners constantly: “What if I train them and they leave?” “What if I invest the time, money, color, foils, and education… and it doesn’t work out?”…

If you’re booked out, exhausted, drowning behind-the-chair and trying to keep the salon afloat… yet you keep telling yourself “I need help”… This episode is for you. Most salon owners aren’t avoiding hiring because they don’t want the support. They’re avoiding it because they’re scared as hell and unsure of the unknown. In this episode, I’m getting real and personal about: One of my first assistants I ever hired… and how she literally never came back from her lunch break 😳 The false stories that experience planted in my head (and how they kept me stuck) The TOP 5 fears I hear from salon owners all the time when it comes to hiring help and why those fears feel so real We’re breaking down fears like: “I’m scared I won’t be able to afford an assistant.” “What if I train them and they leave?” “What if my clients hate it?” “I don’t have time to train someone.” “What if I hire the wrong person?” And I’m not just calling you out — I’m walking you through: What’s actually underneath these fear Why staying…

Color is one of the largest expenses in your salon… and yet most owners are still guessing. 😬 In this episode, I’m breaking down exactly how we track, upcharge, budget, and invoice color for booth renters at Salon Lace. If you’re eyeballing color, “doing your best,” or avoiding the numbers altogether… this one’s for you. Here’s what I’m walking you through: Why tracking every single drop of color is a non-negotiable in 2026 The real reason we provide color for our booth renters (and why most salons don’t) How an all-inclusive color bar elevates creativity, consistency, and the guest experience The big mistake I made early on by not upcharging — and how I fixed it Exactly how we upcharge renters for color (and what that fee actually covers) How we invoice renters monthly — clean and simple Our weekly color budgeting method (this is GOLD) The step-by-step system we use to order, stock, and track inventory How to get your team fully on board with tracking color The hard truth about what happens when someone…

✨ Final episode of The Level Up with Lacey Podcast for 2025 ✨ I’ll be honest, I’m really bad at celebrating how far I’ve come. I move the goalpost fast, judge myself even faster, and usually skip right past the “wow” moment straight into “what’s next?” In this final episode of 2025, I’m sharing the mindset shift that completely changed my peace, confidence, and anxiety this year- learning how to live in the gain instead of the gap. We’re talking about: Why high-achievers and salon owners constantly feel behind (even when they’re winning) The difference between measuring yourself against the future vs. honoring your growth How living in the gain doesn’t kill ambition — it actually makes it healthier The exact moment I realized I was standing in a life I once prayed for Powerful reflection questions to help you close out 2025 feeling proud instead of pressured Plus… I’m sharing a heartfelt thank you and celebrating what WE built together this year — and the growth of this podcast honestly blew my mind 🤍 If…

If assistants feel frustrating, inconsistent, or exhausting… this episode is for you. Because here’s the truth: that’s usually a leadership and systems issue, not a people issue… Mic drop. 🎤 In this episode, I’m breaking down the 6 standards I would absolutely be holding my assistants to in 2026 — not to be controlling, but to create clarity, structure, and confidence for everyone involved. We’re talking about: Why your assistant must know and track their numbers (and yours) What “hands-on with every guest” should actually look like Owning the guest experience- every single time Daily + weekly debriefs and why silence kills culture Treating this career like a business, not a hobby Why assistants need to actively invest in themselves and their future These aren’t random rules. They’re standards that protect your time, your energy, and your business. If something in this episode hits a nerve… good. That’s usually where the growth is. ✨ Free 3-Day Training Invite At the end of December, I’m hosting a…

Before we dive in, don’t forget, I’m hosting a 3-day mini training on my Instagram Close Friends list called Your 2026 Habit Reset: Because You Can’t Do 2026 with 2025’s Bullshit. It’s happening Dec 28, 29, 30 and everything will live in that little green circle. To join: DM me the word “Close” on Instagram → @lacey_gebo → https://www.instagram.com/lacey_gebo/ Now let’s get into the purchases that kept me alive, sane, and functioning this year. Every item mentioned is linked below! Productivity + Home + Life Management Skylight Calendar → https://myskylight.com/products/skylight-calendar/ Code: FRIEND-XV2MSH8 Full Focus Planner → https://amzn.to/44X7Lhr Aro Box → https://goaro.com/products/aro-box Standing Desk (Flexispot) → https://www.flexispot.com/l-shaped-standing-desk-e1l Acrylic Cord Organizers → https://amzn.to/4rUSp6X TG90 Power Bank → https://amzn.to/4rTDTwn Health + Wellness + Fitness MyFitnessPal → https://www.myfitnesspal.com/ Nutrition Coach (Turner Hall)📱 Text: 918-232-8766IG →…

If you want support setting YOUR 2026 SMARTER goals, come join my Close Friends List on Instagram! December 28–30, I’m teaching a free 3-day mini series: Your 2026 Habit Reset- Because You Can’t Do 2026 with 2025’s Bullshit. DM CLOSE on IG (@lacey_gebo) to join. Why SMARTER Goals Matter A goal without a plan is just a wish. Last year I hit 7 of my goals, missed 2, and learned that clarity + simplicity always win. The goals with a clear path? I nailed. The vague ones? I outgrew or ignored. Achievement Goals = one result. Habit Goals = ongoing behavior. You need both, but not too many. 2026 rule of thumb:• Max 8 annual goals• Max 4 habit goals (one per quarter)• Max 4 professional goals You become what you repeatedly do. Start With the LifeScore Assessment If you don’t know where to begin, take the LifeScore Assessment (linked below). It scores nine areas of your life so you know exactly where to focus heading into the new year. 🔗 https://assessments.fullfocus.co/lifescore/ SMARTER Goal Refresher Specific •…

Salon owners… we’re going there today. Because every December, we all have the SAME question running through our minds: “What the heck do I even get my assistants for the holidays?” How much is normal? What’s too much? What if money is tight? How do you show appreciation without blowing your entire December revenue on gifts? This episode breaks it ALL down- honestly, clearly, and with zero fluff. Inside the episode, we dive into: 🔥 Why holiday gifts should never become a financial burden 🔥 What gifting looks like for small teams vs. bigger teams 🔥 Why intentions matter more than the price tag 🔥 What not to do (YES, there is a list) 🔥 What SMART gifting actually looks like and why it’s a total game-changer 🔥 The exact savings strategy we use inside Salon Lace so the holidays don’t feel heavy anymore And because I love you… here’s a little sneak peek at one of my favorite SMART gift ideas: ✨ The Full Focus Planner — my go-to planner that helps stylists stay organized, intentional, and focused heading into a…

As we head into Thanksgiving week, I wanted to slow things down… just a little. This season has a way of making us breathe deeper, notice more, and really reflect on what truly matters. Inside Salon Lace, we call it Gratitude Friday and today, I’m bringing that same energy straight into this episode. In this heartfelt conversation, I’m sharing the things, and people who carried me, challenged me, strengthened me, and shaped me this year. From the moments that brought joy to the moments that nearly broke me… this episode is all about honoring the blessings that matter most. We talk about the relationships that kept me grounded, the support systems that held me up, the growth that surprised me, and the hard seasons that refined me in ways I never expected. This one is honest, vulnerable, and straight from the heart. This episode is a reminder to slow down… to notice what’s right in front of you… and to remember that gratitude isn’t just something we feel it’s something we express. If you listen to anything…

If you’re juggling a full salon, a booked client schedule, DMs, team drama, color orders, laundry, walk-ins, phone calls, and somehow trying to remember to pee and eat lunch… this episode is going to feel like a deep exhale. I know that feeling of having 462 tabs open in your brain while wondering, “Why am I so forgetful? Am I getting old? What is happening?” You’re not alone. Every salon owner I know is asked to hold a thousand things at once and without the right systems, it’s impossible to keep up. This episode is the one I wish I had years ago. I’m sharing the exact time management strategies, boundaries, and habits that truly SAVED my sanity and my business while I was still behind the chair. These are the tools that helped me stop drowning in overwhelm and start leading with clarity, intention, and confidence. Why This Episode Matters Time management isn’t just “being organized.” It’s the foundation of: Hitting your goals Leading your team Protecting your energy Keeping your business profitable…

Do you ever feel like your team meetings last about two days before everyone slips right back into old habits? 🙋🏼‍♀️ Been there. For years, I poured my heart (and hours) into monthly team meetings- snacks, agendas, motivation, the works, only to leave frustrated and drained. Everyone nodded, smiled, and then… nothing changed. Until I made one tiny shift that completely transformed how my team communicated, followed through, and took ownership. I stopped holding team meetings altogether and started doing monthly one-on-ones. And let me tell you… accountability skyrocketed. In this episode, I’m walking you through: ✨ What wasn’t working (and why traditional team meetings fail) ✨ How monthly one-on-ones created real accountability and trust ✨ The exact format I use for every single meeting (including the questions I ask) ✨ And why clarity and consistency always outperform motivation. If you’ve been craving a team that takes action without constant reminders , this episode is your roadmap. 🎁 Bonus: I’m sharing…

Four years ago, I made one of the scariest decisions of my life, I walked away from behind the chair. My books were full, the money was great, and from the outside, everything looked perfect… but I was exhausted. I knew deep down that if I wanted to hit big numbers and do big things, I couldn’t keep operating the same way. Sometimes, you have to quit really cool, money-making things to get to where you actually want to be. This week’s episode is a raw, behind-the-scenes look at the five things I quit that helped me hit my first million-dollar year. These shifts didn’t happen overnight, but they changed everything about how I lead, grow, and think as a CEO. Here’s a peek inside: ☑ The moment I quit doing hair (and how that single decision tripled our salon’s revenue) ☑ Why doing it all yourself keeps you small and how hiring the right help changed the game ☑ The uncomfortable truth about avoiding your numbers (and how data became my superpower) ☑ What happened when I stopped holding onto money so tightly and…

This one’s hands-on! Grab your planner, Google Calendar, or wall calendar because we’re mapping out every single major date, goal, and event for 2026. From one-on-ones and education days to retreats, content days, and (yes!) your own vacations, this episode will help you build the kind of rhythm and structure your team needs to thrive. If it’s not on the calendar… it’s not happening! Let’s plan smarter, lead intentionally, and set your year up for success. In This Episode, You’ll Learn: 1. Why Planning Now Matters Stop leading in reactive mode, leadership is intentional. Learn how early planning shapes your energy, confidence, and clarity all year long. 2. How to Organize & Communicate Your Calendar From Google Calendar to Slack or Facebook Groups, get a simple system to keep your team aligned and accountable. 3. What to Schedule for 2026 One-on-Ones & Assistant Classes Team Retreats & Photoshoots Education Days & PK Classes Leadership “Train-the-Trainer” Events Promotions, Recruitment, and Gratitude Fridays…

Everyone loves the idea of having a team… until they actually have one. When I hired my first assistant at 23, I thought it would make my life easier… instead, it made me a better leader. It gave my body a break, but not my mind. “New level, new devil. New opportunities come with new challenges.” Fantasy vs. Reality We all think once we hire, everything will get easier. But in reality, chaos comes first. You go from working in the business to growing people. Assistants: The Most Misunderstood Role Assistants aren’t “help.” They’re our right hand, our Co-Stylists, our future leaders. When you hire out of desperation, you create misalignment not culture. “You can’t lead people until you’ve learned how to train them.” The Hard Truths You’ll be the bad guy sometimes. You’ll lose sleep. You’ll care more than they do. But every tough moment shapes you into the kind of leader your team deserves. “If you avoid confrontation to keep the peace, you’ll start a war inside yourself.” Why We Do It Because it’s worth it,…

Tired of holiday promos that flop or feel forced? In this episode, Lacey shares the story behind Salon Lace’s most successful holiday promotion ever - Luck of the Draw. It boosted retail sales, built team momentum, and turned the salon into a place of pure excitement all month long. 1. The Concept: Every guest drew a card when they walked in- and their discount depended on it: 2–10 = 15% off, Face cards = 20%, Ace = 25%, Joker = BOGO. Once guests held that discount in their hand, they couldn’t resist stocking up. 2. The Team Incentive: Stylists kept the cards from guests who purchased retail and built poker hands throughout the week. Best 5-card hand won prizes - everything from gift cards to a Redken Symposium ticket. 3. The Vibe: Poker decorations, upbeat music, and cards taped to mirrors the whole salon came alive. “Don’t just decorate your salon - activate it. The energy should hit your guests the second they walk in.” 4. Why It Worked: Created momentum and competition Boosted sales instantly…

“Am I too intense? Do I expect too much? Am I the problem?” If you’ve ever asked yourself those questions, you’re not alone. In today’s episode, I’m pulling back the curtain on a conversation that so many salon owners are having behind closed doors. Maybe you’ve had a stylist say, “This job is too mentally taxing.” Maybe a team member made you feel like your standards are “too much.” And maybe, just maybe, you’ve found yourself softening your expectations out of guilt. I get it. I’ve been there. I even had one of my own leaders tell me that everything we were doing inside Salon Lace, one-on-ones, assistant classes, extension training, photoshoots, retreats, train-the-trainers was “TOO MUCH.” And I’ll be honest, for a moment, it made me want to shrink back and do nothing at all. But here’s the truth: high expectations are not a weakness. They’re a leadership strength when they’re clearly communicated. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: ✨ Why guilt creeps in when your team pushes back, and how to stop doubting…

If you avoid conflict to keep the peace, you start a war inside yourself... Sit with that for a second. In this episode, I’m diving into one of the toughest, but most necessary parts of salon life: conflict. We’re talking about why so many stylists bounce at the first sign of tension, why it’s destroying salon culture, and how you can start repairing instead of replacing. I’ll share personal stories from my own leadership journey (yep, the messy conversations I wish I didn’t have to have), plus practical tools you can use to face conflict without blowing up relationships. By the end, you’ll walk away with a simple framework that works in any salon conversation owner to stylist, stylist to stylist, or anywhere in between. Here’s what you’ll learn in this episode: Why “cancelled culture” is killing growth in salons and shortening careers. The mindset shift from replace to repair and why it multiplies trust. The REPAIR framework: six steps to navigate tough conversations. Team agreements that keep culture…

Back in 2020 when we switched to a rental/hybrid model, I made a big mistake: I brought in renters from other salons who weren’t aligned with our culture. They were talented, sure… but they didn’t know our systems, our standards, or the “Salon Lace way.” And honestly? That was on me. That’s when I realized: chair rental without structure = chaos. In this episode, I’m sharing how we turned things around and why, at Salon Lace, the cost of admission is simple, every renter goes through our Assistant Program. It protects our culture, sets clear expectations, creates consistency for guests, and builds a team that feels connected (even in a rental model). We’ll also talk about what to do with experienced stylists, how to market chair rental the right way, and why your culture is the real selling point. 🎧 Tune in to learn how to protect your culture, avoid the chaos, and build something lasting. 👉🏼 And if you need a step-by-step framework to onboard and train your Assistants, grab my Ultimate Assistant Guide,…

Minimum wage in Oklahoma has been $7.25 since 2009 and for years that’s exactly what I paid my assistants. Later, I raised it to $10 an hour… and nothing changed. So why do salon owners feel pressured to pay assistants “well above” minimum wage? In this episode, I’m sharing the pros, cons, and my perspective on paying assistants minimum wage, how to set pay based on your numbers (not guilt), and why your culture and education matter far more than the hourly rate. What You’ll Learn: The real pros and cons of minimum wage pay How to calculate what your salon can actually afford Why assistants don’t choose salons based on $1–$4/hour differences Simple ways assistants can earn more beyond base pay My POV: pay what’s sustainable and release the guilt Key Takeaway Assistants don’t join your team for a paycheck, they join for your leadership, culture, and training. Build a program so clear and valuable that growth opportunities, not just wages, make them feel invested. Suggest podcast topics here ⤵️…

In today’s episode, I’m sharing 12 of my favorite activities we’ve used to grow future leaders. These aren’t fluffy icebreakers… they’re the exact exercises that have shaped my team, strengthened our culture, and created lasting impact. They’re practical, interactive, and you can start using them with your team right away. I even created a free companion resource for you! 🎉 It’s called Leadership + Personal Development Activities for Your Future Leaders, and it has all 12 activities (plus more!) laid out step by step so you can easily implement them in your salon. 👉🏼Grab your free guide here: https://lg-education.kit.com/4ccedb98dc One of the activities I love most is our Full Focus Annual Goals Deep Dive. If you’ve been around for a while, you know I swear by the Full Focus Planner, and I use it with my team to help them dream big, set aligned goals, and take ownership of their growth. If you don’t already have one, you can grab it here →…

Life has seasons and sometimes morning routines just don’t fit. If you’re a new mom or in a messy season, give yourself grace. Your time will come. In this episode, I share my current playbook, my three morning non-negotiables, and the simple hacks that keep me grounded as a salon owner, mom, and business coach. It’s not about a “perfect routine” — it’s about consistency, rituals that fit your season, and giving yourself permission to keep it simple. What You’ll Learn ✨ Why consistency always beats intensity ✨ My 3 non-negotiables for a “win” every morning ✨ A peek at my weekday routine + productivity hacks ✨ How to build rituals around your season of life Links & Resources Daily Devotional- https://www.amazon.com/dp/1424552869?linkCode=ssc&tag=onamzlaceygeb-20&creativeASIN=1424552869&asc_item-id=amzn1.ideas.3HX9TWMWKLOJT&ref_=aip_sf_list_spv_ons_mixed_d_asin Day of the Week Closet Dividers-…

If you’re still scrubbing toilets, restocking color, or running your salon’s Instagram… this episode is your wake-up call. ✨ Most salon owners hold onto tasks way too long, thinking they’re saving money or staying in control. The truth? That mindset keeps you stuck, burnt out, and blocks your growth. In this episode, I’m sharing the five specific tasks I’ve learned to delegate, who should take them over, and why it’s non-negotiable if you want to build a succesful salon and a confident team. Here’s what you’ll learn: Why delegation is a growth strategy (and not a luxury). The 5 tasks you should never touch again as a salon owner—and who should handle them instead. How delegation creates freedom, structure, and empowered leaders inside your business. The ripple effect delegation has on your salon culture and your life outside the chair. 💡 Quote to remember: “When you delegate the small things, you free yourself to lead the big things.” 👉🏼 Quick announcement: Our Culture Community is officially open for…

Sometimes leadership comes with tough choices, and yes, that includes hitting “mute” or “unfollow” on social media when a team member leaves your salon. In this episode, I’m getting real about why protecting your energy isn’t pettiness- it’s self-care, boundaries, and emotional maturity. If you’ve ever felt that gut-punch when someone moves on from your team, this episode gives you permission to do what’s best for YOU while continuing to grow as a leader. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Why I mute or unfollow former team members: Protecting your energy isn’t about bitterness it’s about healing and growth. How to handle the emotions: It’s okay to hurt, but still do what’s best for your mental and emotional health. Boundaries as self-respect: Social media doesn’t need to control your peace. The truth about social media vs. real life: Seeing every move someone makes doesn’t mean it serves you. Permission to take intentional space: This isn’t permanent- do what’s right for you without explanations. This isn’t…