Special Guest: Jess Maundrell

In this episode, I had the absolute pleasure of sitting down with the incredibly talented Jess Maundrell—Concept Hair’s Overall Winner and Avant-Garde champion for 2025. At just 19 years old, Jess has already graced posters, magazine covers, and international competitions. Her journey is a true testament to what’s possible when passion, resilience, and creativity collide.

From the very beginning, Jess knew hairdressing was her path. What struck me most in our conversation was her honesty about the struggles—questioning whether to pursue an apprenticeship or a full-time course, battling through self-doubt, and learning to push through the “bad days.” Her decision to follow her gut and stay at West Suffolk College became one of the best choices she’s ever made, and it shows in her results.

We explored her love for avant-garde styling, her standout whale-tail design inspired by environmental themes, and the unique opportunities she’s embraced—from Concept Hair competitions to representing the UK at WorldSkills, even traveling to Japan to exchange skills with international students. Listening to Jess talk about stepping outside her comfort zone reminded me of the power of saying “yes” to opportunities, even when they feel scary.

My Key Takeaways:

• Success in this industry isn’t just about skill—it’s about mindset. Jess reminded me that bad days don’t mean you’re on the wrong path; they’re part of the process.
• Trusting your gut can change everything. Choosing a full course at college when everyone else told her to do an apprenticeship was a defining moment in her career.
• Competitions aren’t only about winning—they’re about confidence, exposure, and building lifelong connections.
• Support systems matter. From mentors like Jo and her lecturers to friends and family, Jess thrived because she leaned on her network.
• Resilience and determination are what set extraordinary learners apart. Jess didn’t give up when things got tough—she kept practicing until she achieved her vision.

I left our chat so inspired, not only by Jess’s talent but also by her humility and drive. She’s proof that age doesn’t define your impact—you do.

Special Guest: Morgan Brown

Welcome to Learner’s Voice! I’m your host, Belinda Hillman, and today’s episode is one that’s incredibly close to my heart. I sit down with my own apprentice, Morgan Brown, for an honest, inspiring, and emotional conversation. From sweeping floors as a Saturday girl to making the bold decision to move to Australia, Morgan’s journey is proof that with passion, grit, and mindset—anything is possible.

Morgan opens up about the influence of her mum and grandma in sparking her love for hairdressing, how school-based training gave her a powerful head start, and why an apprenticeship—not a classroom—was the key to her success. She shares the highs and the hard truths of the apprentice life: the ego, the burnout, the breakthroughs… and learning how to accept feedback without losing herself.

We talk about her mindset transformation, her surprising decision to skip Level 3 (for now!), and what drove her and her partner Reese to book a one-way ticket to Australia. She didn’t just dream about it—she mapped it out with pen and paper, planned each step, and made it happen. From contacting salons on Instagram to fast-tracking her EPA before flying out, Morgan has truly shown what it means to take action.

Key Takeaways:

• The first 6 months of an apprenticeship can make or break you—lean into support, ask for help, and keep pushing.

• Don’t let your ego get in the way of your growth—feedback is fuel.

• Use social media as a professional tool—it can open doors you never imagined.

• Planning with pen and paper can help declutter your mind and turn dreams into plans.

• Courage doesn’t always come with confidence—sometimes you leap anyway.

Tune in to hear a real, raw, and motivating story that will inspire you to chase your goals—no matter how far away they seem.

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In today’s episode, I sit down with the incredibly inspiring Heather Jane Wayne—an adult learner from Coleg Menai in North Wales—whose journey into hairdressing began not in a salon, but through sheer grit, self-teaching, and an unshakable desire to create something of her own.

Heather didn’t take the traditional route. Originally studying to become a teacher, she started doing hair-up styles as a side hustle while working long hours as a care worker. That “side hustle” soon blossomed into a thriving bridal hair business—and opened the door to a complete career transformation.

What struck me most was how Heather refused to let her circumstances define her. As a single mum to two children, one of whom has additional needs, she has consistently shown determination, heart, and a love of learning that radiates in everything she does.

We talk about how she battled imposter syndrome, what gave her the courage to go back to college, and how competitions like UK Skills, Welsh Skills, and Concept Hair helped shape her confidence. She’s even been nominated for Student of the Year and is a finalist for multiple Purple Hearts Awards.

Her honesty, energy, and growth mindset are infectious—and I know her story will ignite something in anyone who’s ever doubted themselves or wondered if it’s too late to start over.

🔑 Key Takeaways:

• You’re never “too old” or “too busy” to start again.
• A growth mindset and the willingness to say yes can open doors you never imagined.
• Self-belief doesn’t come first—it grows as you show up.
• Competitions, mentors, and community can fast-track both confidence and career.
• You can balance motherhood and ambition—with the right support and self-compassion.

Tune in and get ready to be inspired by Heather’s journey from side hustle to a professional hairdresser with big dreams ahead.

💡 Let’s Connect: Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who needs a reminder that it’s never too late.

Guest: Rhys Hillman

In this episode, I sit down for one of the most personal and proudest interviews I’ve ever done—chatting with my son, Rhys Hillman, about his incredible journey into the barbering industry. At just 19, Rhys is already carving out a name for himself in the high-end world of men’s grooming, but his story starts long before his first fade.

We talk about the early days—those Saturday shifts in our family salon when he was just nine, and the detour he took into graphic design during the pandemic. What stands out most is the moment barbering clicked for him: not as an add-on to hairdressing, but as a unique, expressive craft he could call his own.

Rhys opens up about his bold decision to move away from home for hands-on training at Crate Cheshire and how he hustled for models any way he could—knocking on doors, even trying Grindr! We explore how working on a Christmas tree farm gave him the grit and work ethic he now brings into every haircut.

This isn’t just a story of talent—it’s about persistence, growth, and creating something that feels personal and powerful for every client who sits in his chair. From his first editorial photo shoot to making it to the finals of the Modern Barber Awards, Rhys has stayed humble, hungry, and always willing to learn.

Key Takeaways (from me, as a mum and a host):

• The beginning is hard, but the hustle builds character.
• Relationships matter—real connection turns clients into loyal regulars.
• Don’t compare, be inspired—growth takes time.
• Confidence isn’t perfection; it’s progress.
• Define who you want to be early on, then chase it unapologetically.
• Keep learning—education and discomfort are both fuel for greatness.

This episode is more than just a career story. It’s a reflection on resilience, family, and the power of backing your passion with everything you’ve got. Rhys reminds us that chasing the cut isn’t just about technique—it’s about creating a life you love, one haircut at a time.

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Special Guests: Milly Ockmore, Rosie Davies, and Katie Sime

In this powerful and heartwarming episode, I sit down with three incredible young women—Milly Ockmore, Rosie Davies, and Katie Sime—each a medalist from the prestigious WorldSkills competition. What starts as a conversation about styling and skills turns into a beautiful exploration of confidence, growth, and how saying “yes” to an opportunity can change your life.

Milly, shares how finishing school during COVID left her feeling uncertain—until she discovered hairdressing and found her spark. I encouraged her to enter WorldSkills, and to her surprise, she kept progressing… all the way to a medal. Her journey reminds me—and all of us—that even when we’re unsure, showing up and finishing what we start can unlock potential we didn’t know we had.

Rosie brings such depth and thoughtfulness to our chat. She opens up about her experiences in both AHT and WorldSkills competitions, sharing how breaking styles down into simple sections helped her succeed. Her go-to product? Wella Shine Spray! And she’s gearing up for her End Point Assessment, which I was thrilled to support with a guided visualisation tool—because yes, mental rehearsal isn’t just for athletes.

Then comes Katie, the gold medalist from Red Hair Company, whose quiet determination and resilience stole my heart. She credits her success to the incredible mentors around her—including Rosie—and the courage to step outside her comfort zone, even when the pressure was high.

Together, these women are proof that talent flourishes in the right environment—with belief, guidance, and community. Whether you’re a learner, a mentor, or someone searching for your “thing,” this episode is a celebration of grit, growth, and girl power. Tune in—you’ll leave inspired to take your own leap.

Here are the key takeaways from the episode:

1. Confidence grows when we say “yes” before we feel ready. Saying yes, even when unsure, opens doors to growth and opportunity.
2. Mentorship—and a little healthy pressure—can be life-changing. Support from mentors can help push us out of our comfort zones and guide us to success.
3. Hands-on learning builds real-world skills—and real-world belief. Practical experience in the field teaches not only technical skills but also boosts self-confidence.
4. Simplify, practice, and trust the process. Break tasks down into manageable steps, keep practicing, and trust that progress will come.
5. The right support system makes all the difference. Being surrounded by a supportive community can inspire motivation and success, especially when challenges arise.

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Special Guest: Lilia Grace Jones

In this episode of Learner’s Voice in collaboration with Concept Hair, I sit down with Lilia Grace Jones from Coleg Cambria, who is currently completing her Level 3 Beauty Therapy. Lilia’s passion for beauty started at a young age, and she has been inspired by professionals, clients, and her work environment.

Lilia shares her incredible experience participating in World Skills Beauty Therapy, a competition that tested her technical skills and resilience. She opens up about the intense training process, the support she received from mentors and peers, and how the competition pushed her beyond self-doubt, ultimately strengthening her confidence and abilities. Her advice? Take the leap—competitions are a great way to grow personally and professionally.

We also explore the challenges of working in the beauty industry, particularly overcoming confidence issues and seeking mentorship. Lilia’s mantra, “Don’t let the fear of standing out keep you from playing the game,” is a powerful reminder to push past self-doubt, embrace learning opportunities, and stay focused on personal goals.

Despite not being in a managerial role, Lilia has built a strong client base while working in a salon, reinforcing the importance of gaining hands-on experience and building relationships. She also highlights the supportive learning environment at Glow, where collaboration and continuous improvement are encouraged.

Mindset training was another key topic—we discussed how initial skepticism turned into appreciation for its impact on personal and professional growth. From Welsh language flashcards to competition preparation, Lilia reflects on how these tools enhanced her learning experience.

One of the standout moments of our conversation was Lilia’s recognition as Dermalogica Student of the Year 2024. She shares her love for skincare, the brand’s excellent training, and the importance of product knowledge in delivering high-quality beauty treatments.

✨ Push past self-doubt—competitions can boost confidence and skill development. ✨ Seek mentorship and build a supportive learning environment. ✨ Hands-on experience and client relationships are key to success. ✨ Mindset training plays a crucial role in professional growth. ✨ Embrace unexpected opportunities—you may discover new passions along the way.

This episode is a must-listen for beauty therapy students and professionals looking for inspiration, confidence-building tips, and industry insights!

Special Guest: Herb Bishop

Welcome to the Belinda Mindset podcast, The Learner's Voice! Today's episode features Herb Bishop, a 17-year-old barber from Cornwall, sharing his inspiring journey in the world of barbering. Herb's story is a testament to following passion and seizing opportunities.

Herb left his A Levels to pursue barbering, driven by his love for the craft. He shares how a chance encounter with a barber in Bristol and later Plymouth sparked his interest, leading him to apprentice at a local shop and eventually start his own business from his garden. Despite initial challenges and skepticism, Herb's determination and family support propelled him forward.

Reflecting on his journey, Herb discusses the importance of confidence and seizing opportunities, even when they seem unconventional. His journey from reluctant A Level student to thriving barber showcases the power of following one's passion and taking calculated risks.

Throughout the episode, Herb emphasizes the role of mentorship and continuous learning in his growth. He discusses the evolution of his skills, from initial struggles to gaining confidence through client feedback and social media exposure. Herb's approach to self-promotion on platforms like Instagram underscores his commitment to growth and transparency in his craft.

As Herb continues to expand his skills through hairdressing courses and self-study, he remains optimistic about his future in the industry. His entrepreneurial spirit and willingness to embrace challenges serve as an inspiration to aspiring barbers and entrepreneurs alike.

✅ Follow What You Love – Herb made the courageous decision to leave traditional education behind because he knew his passion lay elsewhere. He reminds us that doing what you love is key to long-term fulfillment.

✅ Say Yes to Opportunities – The only student to raise his hand to be on this podcast, Herb believes in taking chances. He shares how stepping forward, even when uncertain, can open unexpected doors.

✅ The Power of Role Models – A single haircut with an inspiring barber in Bristol changed Herb’s perspective on what a career in barbering could be. Mentors and role models can shape our ambitions in ways we don’t anticipate.

✅ Learn by Doing – Herb's journey into barbering started with hands-on experience. He took the initiative to shadow a barber and practice, reinforcing that real-world learning is invaluable.

✅ Embrace Criticism and Growth – From taking countless photos of his work to seeking feedback, Herb has learned that constructive criticism fuels improvement. He shares how his confidence has grown over time.

✅ Build Your Own Path – Running his own barbering business from his garden, Herb values independence and flexibility. His entrepreneurial mindset proves that success doesn’t have to follow a traditional path.

Join us as Herb shares his insights and experiences, offering valuable lessons on resilience, passion, and the pursuit of personal fulfillment in one's career. Herb's journey is a reminder that success often stems from embracing one's unique path and staying true to one's passions.

Special Guest: Linda Bennett

In this episode of The Learner’s Voice, I sit down with Linda Bennett, a 57-year-old former mental health nurse who took a bold leap into a brand-new career in hairdressing. After retiring at 55 from a fulfilling 33-year nursing career, Linda found herself searching for her next purpose—until a simple salon visit sparked an unexpected realization.

She shares how the core skills of nursing—empathy, connection, and a desire to make people feel better—perfectly align with hairdressing. But stepping into a completely new industry wasn’t without its challenges. From self-doubt about age and skill to shifting from a leadership role to being a learner again, Linda opens up about the mindset shifts and personal growth that have shaped her journey.

We also explore the incredible support available for learners in the hairdressing industry, including financial aid, uniforms, meals, and game-changing mindset training. Linda highlights the transformative impact of educators like Emma and the "Belinda Mindset" approach, which fosters confidence, resilience, and a deep belief in one’s potential.

Key Takeaways: 🔹 It’s never too late to reinvent yourself and pursue a new passion. 🔹 The transition from expert to beginner is humbling but filled with growth. 🔹 Mindset training and a strong support system can make all the difference. 🔹 Career shifts challenge societal norms, but personal fulfillment matters more than status. 🔹 Passion, not age, determines success in any field.

Linda’s story is a powerful reminder that learning is a lifelong journey. If you’ve ever considered making a change but felt held back by fear or doubt, this episode will inspire you to take the leap.

🎧 Listen now and embrace the possibility of reinvention at any stage of life!