Can reinvention be the secret to longevity in a creative industry?

In this episode we sit down with the legendary Jo Mills - founder of The Lounge Soho, Jo & Co, and Woolf Kings X to unpack how a career built on instinct, innovation, and adaptability has kept him at the forefront of British hairdressing for over three decades.

From his early days cutting hair in Margate to redefining what a modern salon can look like, Jo shares the mindset behind constantly evolving his craft and business. He opens up about the burnout that nearly made him walk away from it all, and how that moment led to a bold new hybrid salon concept combining the freedom of self-employment with the stability of traditional models.

We explore how Jo’s model is transforming what it means to run a creative business today - one that is built on flexibility, mentorship, and community over convention.

What You’ll Learn

- The Hybrid Model: How Jo’s new salon structure blends employment and independence, creating flexibility without chaos.

- Creative Longevity: Why reinvention is essential for staying inspired, relevant, and resilient in a changing industry.

- Leading with Purpose: How empathy, mentoring, and adaptability have shaped Jo’s leadership style and why it works.

Jo proves that success in hairdressing isn’t just about cutting hair - it’s about cutting through old systems and shaping new ones. His story is a masterclass in creative reinvention, business bravery, and building something that lasts.

Hair Life is produced by Urban Podcasts.

What if building a career in hairdressing was less about salons and more about sheer grit?

In this episode of Hair Life, we are joined by the incredible Ky Wilson, a hairdresser and educator whose journey spans from small-town beginnings in the Lake District to the global stage. From sleeping rough in airports to hustling through competitions, to opening unconventional salon spaces in warehouses and even cutting hair on park benches, Ky's story is one of determination, creativity, and resilience.

We dive into how competitions shaped his early career, what it was like to work under industry icons, and how he pioneered flexible freelance salon spaces before they became the norm. Ky also opens up about the health challenges and sobriety journey that have reshaped his life and perspective, showing how hairdressing has always been both his craft and his form of meditation.

What You’ll Learn

- Breaking In: How competitions, mentoring, and hustle create opportunities in the hair industry.

- Innovation & Resilience: Why thinking differently about spaces and services can redefine success.

- Sobriety & Growth: How stepping away from alcohol reshaped Ky's health, mindset, and creative energy.

Ky's story is proof that passion, persistence, and a willingness to carve your own path can turn obstacles into opportunities-and inspire others to do the same.

Hair Life is produced by Urban Podcasts.

What if money could be your greatest teacher in life and business?

In this Rewind episode of Hair Life, we get real about our journeys with money-from scraping by as single parents to building comfortable lifestyles. We chat about the highs and lows, how financial struggles sparked our drive, and why true joy comes from time with loved ones, not just the bank balance.

What You'll Learn

- Embracing Struggles: Turn financial hardships into motivation to push harder and grow personally.

- Smart Spending: Align your money with values by saving, investing wisely, and avoiding impulsive buys.

- Setting Targets: Use goals like funding dream holidays to fuel your business hustle and create lasting memories.

We share our tips like appreciating simple joys (dog walks or family time), educating yourself before big decisions, and remembering that freedom and time matter more than material things.

This episode is your reminder that money's true value lies in the freedom and experiences it unlocks, not the stuff it buys.

Hair Life is produced by Urban Podcasts.