Todays guest Louise Upson reflects on building a career that began with a late apprenticeship in Oxford and took her through London, Manchester, TV work, and back to Brighton, where she now runs Studio 7 from a home studio. She talks about the hard training that gave her confidence, and the change in plans during COVID that led her to step away from a salon lease and start her own space instead.

Plus: her break through The Activator mentor scheme with Angie Gowdy, entering new competitions and events, and the one-to-one client relationships that matter most to her. She also discusses the demands of running Studio 7 alone, staying authentic behind the chair, and her plans to grow the business while expanding her knowledge of hair health, trichology, and extensions for clients with hair loss.

Produced and published by How To Cut It Media

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Todays Guest

With two decades in the hair industry, Louise Upson's journey includes training with Mahogany in Oxford and London, and TV work in Manchester. For the past 14 years, Brighton & Hove has been her home, where she’s built her reputation. Five years ago, Louise launched Studio Seven Hair, her home-based studio, championing personal, creative, professional, and authentic hairdressing. Authenticity and a genuine passion for her craft drive her, delivering everything from precision cuts to stunning transformations and Optimum Hair Health journeys with unparalleled expertise.

@louise_upson_hairstylist

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From leaving school at 16 and starting as a plasterer to finding hairdressing by chance, Mustafa Hassan maps a career built through apprenticeship, London training, and a Vidal Sassoon diploma. He talks about the people and moments that raised his standards, including mentors at John Frieda and a turning point in Kent that showed him he could build his own brand.

Plus: opening his first salon in Royal Tunbridge Wells, the challenge of staying true to his principles, and the discipline he says matters most—consistent practice, using time well, and developing physical skills over wasting time online. He also reflects on community, creative growth, and making career decisions that match your values.

Produced and published by How To Cut It Media

Spotd is the soon to launch professional opportunity platform built for the hair industry. Only. ✂️ Join the waitlist at getspotdapp.com

Connect with Spotd on Instagram @getspotdapp

Follow Spotd on TikTok @getspotdapp

Todays Guest

Mustafa Hassan is a renowned hairdresser and co-owner of The Studio Hair Salon in Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent[. Established in 2010 with Natalie Hassan, The Studio celebrates creativity and is a cornerstone of the local community. Mustafa's journey into hair began unexpectedly, transitioning from an apprentice plasterer to a professional hairdresser. He has achieved recognition in the industry, including Wella Professionals Trend Vision, showcasing his commitment to excellence and continuous development in his craft. His career exemplifies passion, discipline, and a dedication to forging strong community connections.

The Studio @mustafa2184

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Cherise Davies—an award-winning salon owner in North Wales—shares her journey from YTS apprentice and cruise-liner stylist to educator, salon owner, and now tech founder.

After leaving education when her standards were challenged, she opened her salon as a single parent with very little money, and today that business supports her next venture: ZigStock, an AI-powered, voice-controlled inventory app for the hair and beauty industry. She also underscores the importance of strong systems, stock control, consistency, and hiring the right people.

Produced and published by How To Cut It Media

Spotd is the soon to launch professional opportunity platform built for the hair industry. Only. ✂️ Join the waitlist at getspotdapp.com

Connect with Spotd on Instagram @getspotdapp

Follow Spotd on TikTok @getspotdapp

Todays Guest

Cherise Davies is an award-winning North Wales salon owner and founder of ZigStock—the simple, AI-powered, voice-controlled stock app built for hair and beauty pros who need every penny to count. Not a techie, just practical, she launched her salon as a single mum of two boys with 69 pence in the bank. After losing her dad young and watching her mum raise three kids alone, Cherise brings grit, grace, and a no-nonsense, people-first approach to building tools—and businesses—that work.

Zigstock.com

@zigstock_

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