What happens when the worst has already happened?

In this powerful follow-up, Ashe Hornsby returns to the Inner Sanctum to deliver the raw, unfiltered truth about what it really takes to survive the unthinkable—and come back stronger.

From losing her partner, her business, and almost herself, Ashe shares how she navigated grief, burnout, legal battles, and letting go of the fight. We talk rebuilding from a literal fire, running a business in a shed during Covid, opening (and closing) a café, and learning when it’s time to surrender instead of push.

💥 Big lessons?

• The difference between surviving and actually living
• Why boundaries matter more when everything is burning
• How slowing down became Ashe’s greatest power move

Whether you're in the thick of it or climbing your way back, Ashe’s story will remind you that resilience isn’t always loud—it’s choosing to keep going, even when no one sees it.

🎧 Listen now for a brutally honest, heartbreakingly funny, and deeply inspiring look behind the scenes of rebuilding.

💌 Don’t forget to subscribe if this podcast has ever made you laugh, cry, think—or feel a little less alone.

Timestamps

00:00 Episode Summary

02:44 Reintroducing Ashe and Reflecting on Part One

04:03 The Impact of Covid on Business Operations

05:35 Rebuilding Amidst Challenges

06:08 The Importance of Insurance and Financial Preparedness

09:17 Leadership and Team Management During Crises

12:33 The Struggles of Small Business Owners

18:58 The Value of Transparency and Communication

27:44 Appreciating Discounts and Fair Work Regulations

33:47 Struggles During COVID-19

34:41 Mom's Battle with Cancer

38:35 Opening a Restaurant Amidst Chaos

45:51 Lessons from a Failed Venture

57:14 Reflecting on Business and Life

💛 A HUGE Thank You to Our Podcast Sponsors

We’re so grateful to be supported by two icons from the industry: Timely and Kevin Murphy.

✨ Timely – Your dream booking system

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We’ve teamed up with KM to bring you the Code Intro Pack. An exclusive limited time offer designed to elevate your colour game and future proof your salon.

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17 x 100ml shades of CODE, including CLEAR

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Head to ozdare.com/salonrising to access this exclusive offer before it’s gone.

In this highlight, Samara and Jen chat with Sherri, who leads ANZ partnerships for Timely.

They talk about why many solo businesses shut down within 18 months…and how you can stop that from happening to you. They share easy tips to help your business stay strong and explain what it really costs to work for yourself…beyond just time and money.

They also talk about how hard it can be to do everything on your own. If you wait until you’re burnt out, it might be too late. But small changes in the way you plan and run your business can make a big difference over time.

You’ll also hear real talk about what success really looks like, and why it’s okay to build a business that works for you, not just what others expect.

If you own a salon, are working on your own or thinking about it, this episode will help you build a business that lasts. One step at a time.

00:00 Introduction and Background

00:42 The Importance of Software in Business

01:39 Understanding Business Metrics

02:23 Challenges of Solo Business Ownership

06:31 The Role of Business Coaching

09:00 Daily Routines and Personal Reflections

11:08 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Inspired? Listen to the full episode here:

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/the-business-lessons-youll-wish-you-learned-with/id1675792257?i=1000682799780

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/2kHschWM6C7UZbw4JcfMMg?si=0XmcJOPGSR2t584yMQhE4A

YouTube: https://youtu.be/tAMgHJCsQ_8?feature=shared

You don’t need to do it alone, Solo babes!

Solo Rise Online is where your confidence strengthens, and your business thrives. With 17 powerful modules, 93 lessons, and nearly 7 hours of expert guidance, you'll have everything you need to grow with confidence.

Start your FREE trial today - Solo Free Trial

On this episode we dive into the power of connection, community, and finding your people in the hair industry.

Aimee, owner of Bhava Salon and creator of Mane Union, shares her journey of moving interstate, the unexpected loneliness that followed, and how she turned that experience into something bigger. Mane Union was born from a desire to create a space where hairstylists and salon owners could truly connect, collaborate, and feel seen.

If you've ever felt like you're doing it all alone, this episode is a must-listen. Whether you're craving real conversations, industry support, or just a group of like-minded people who get it, this is your sign to find (or create) your own community.

00:00 Episode Summary

04:35.9 Introducing Amy from Mane Union

06:03.9 Amy's Journey: Moving and Starting Fresh

08:16.9 Challenges and Triumphs in Salon Management

08:39.9 The Impact of COVID-19 on Business

17:21.9 Transitioning Ownership and New Beginnings

25:33.9 The Emotional Toll of Staff Turnover

35:14.6 Navigating Personal Relationships in the Salon Industry

36:10.6 Handling Client Communication During Transitions

39:56.6 Challenges of Freelancers and Business Models

42:25.6 The Birth of Mane Union

43:06.6 Creating Safe Spaces for Connection

46:23.6 Balancing Personal and Professional Life

52:29.6 The Importance of Small, Intimate Gatherings

56:38.6 Vision and Future of Mane Union

58:44.6 The Role of Social Media in Building Connections

01:04:27.6 Final Thoughts and Closing Remarks

A huge thank you to Timely for making this episode possible. We’ve teamed up with them to bring you something special — new customers get 50% off their first three months.

If you’ve been thinking about levelling up your booking system, now’s the perfect time. Timely is built for salons like yours.

Use the code SALONRISING at checkout to claim the offer 👉 Timely

Mentioned in this episode:

Timely

Trigger warning: This episode discusses pregnancy loss.

This week, Samara was flying solo in the Inner Sanctum (thanks to Jen getting stuck with a client—#SalonLife) for a deeply personal and powerful chat with Ash Bailey, also known as @socialcoachash.

Together, they dive into the raw reality of navigating pregnancy, running a business, and processing loss. Ash opens up about her journey through a second pregnancy, the emotional weight of miscarriage, and the challenges of balancing it all while showing up online. They also get real about setting boundaries, protecting your mental health, and using social media in a way that feels right for you.

This episode is a must-listen for business owners who’ve ever had to keep going when life throws its hardest moments at them—and for anyone who values honesty, resilience, and the power of community.

If you or someone you know needs support, resources are available through Miscarriage Australia and Pink Elephants.

00:00 Trigger Warning

01:25 Special Guest Introduction: Ash from Social Coach Ash

02:33 Ash's Pregnancy Announcement

02:55 Navigating Pregnancy and Business

03:33 Experiencing Pregnancy Loss

05:20 Coping Mechanisms and Support Systems

08:30 Balancing Business and Personal Life

32:19 Future Plans and Advice for Business Owners

44:05 Navigating Parenthood: The Ups and Downs

45:36 Balancing Business and Motherhood

49:05 The Challenges of Travel and Work

53:52 The Importance of Boundaries

55:33 Effective Social Media Strategies

01:08:40 The Emotional Journey of Pregnancy After Loss

01:14:31 Final Thoughts and Support

You don’t need to do it alone, Salon Owner Babes!

Rising Finances Online helps you understand your finances and grow your salon business. It has 9 detailed modules and over 60 in-depth lessons. You also get hours of expert advice. Take control of your finances and plan for success with confidence.

Visit salonrising.com and start today.

https://www.salonrising.com/

Find out more and watch out for updates on socials @ -

https://www.instagram.com/salonrising_/

Hit subscribe for more real, inspiring convos!

In this episode, we chat with the incredible Ashe Hornsby. She has faced unimaginable loss and emerged stronger. After losing her husband, the face of their successful stonemasonry business, Ashe had to deal with her own grief and support her young family. At the same time, she managed the challenges of a male-dominated industry.

Ash talks about resilience and why having the right safeguards, like insurance, matters. She explains how seeking inspiration outside your field can change the game. She shares valuable lessons on patience, strategic thinking, and pushing through tough times.

This is a candid conversation about overcoming obstacles, making bold business choices, and trusting yourself in life’s hardest moments. If you need a reminder that you can rise above anything, this episode is for you.

00:00 Introduction to Ashe's Story

02:04 Podcast Milestone and Today's Theme

03:19 Introducing Ashe Hornsby

05:40 Ashe's Journey

12:25 Financial Management Tips

18:44 Silicosis Crisis in the Industry

22:25 Personal Tragedy and Resilience

25:59 The Importance of Having a Will

29:46 Rebuilding and Moving Forward

33:33 Personal Life and New Beginnings

34:50 The Telly Rats and Childhood Memories

35:31 Coping with Loss and Grief

41:08 Navigating Business Challenges

42:59 The Factory Fire Incident

46:58 Insurance Woes and Lessons Learned

1:00:53 Reflections and Moving Forward

You don’t need to do it alone, Salon Owner Babes!

Rising Finances Online helps you understand your finances and grow your salon business. It has 9 detailed modules and over 60 in-depth lessons. You also get hours of expert advice. Take control of your finances and plan for success with confidence.

Visit salonrising.com and start today.

https://www.salonrising.com/

Find out more and watch out for updates on socials @ -

https://www.instagram.com/salonrising_/

Hit subscribe for more real, inspiring convos!

In this episode in the inner sanctum, we’re keeping it real about the New Year—no fluffy resolutions, just practical ways to set goals and actually follow through.

We dive into navigating multiple roles, business shifts, and making lifestyle changes that feel good (hello, dopamine hacks!). Plus, we’re shaking up traditional goal-setting by swapping vision boards for something way more fun—Bingo cards.

From managing energy post-holiday chaos to setting goals that actually stick, this conversation is all about making the new year work for you. Expect laughs, honesty, and a refreshing take on growth without the pressure.

00:00 Episode Summary

01:58 Podcast Introduction and Swearing Resolutions

02:48 Holiday Experiences and Restfulness

04:21 Decluttering and Switching Off

05:01 Managing Responsibilities and Control

07:59 Accountability and ADHD in Business

12:53 Vision Bingo and New Year Goals

17:05 75-Day Habit Challenge

19:39 Financial Tracking and Budgeting

28:47 Spending Restrictions and Regrets

29:56 Grocery Shopping Challenges

32:11 Team Goals and Learning Aspirations

35:16 Social Media Detox

36:56 Personal and Business Goals

42:29 Health and Wellness Commitments

50:34 Reflecting on the Year Ahead

54:01 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

You don’t need to do it alone, Salon Owner Babes!

Rising Finances Online helps you understand your finances and grow your salon business. It has 9 detailed modules and over 60 in-depth lessons. You also get hours of expert advice. Take control of your finances and plan for success with confidence.

Visit salonrising.com and start your FREE trial today!

https://www.salonrising.com/

Find out more and watch out for updates on socials @ -

https://www.instagram.com/salonrising_/

Hit subscribe for more real, inspiring convos!

In this episode of Salon Rising The Podcast, we chat with the incredible Sarah Lancaster—salon owner (Cole & Co Hair), mum of three, and the brains behind The Relief Hairdresser. Sarah’s built something pretty special, growing her business from a home setup to a full salon while creating a much-needed service that helps salons find reliable, temporary stylists when they need them most.

We talk about the juggle (because it’s real), the importance of solid policies, and how she’s handled everything from growing a team to navigating unexpected challenges (floods included!). Sarah’s approach is thoughtful, considered, and quietly determined—proof that you don’t have to be the loudest in the room to make a big impact.

And The Relief Hairdresser has a special offer for Salon Rising Podcast listeners! Receive 10% off any relief booking by using the booking code "Salon Rising" x

00:00 Episode Summary

01:56 Introducing Our First Guest of the Year

02:33 Sarah Lancaster's Journey

03:40 Building a Team from Home

05:25 Managing the Relief Hairdresser

08:37 Education and Skill Development

11:53 Handling Client and Staff Dynamics

14:34 Operational Insights and Feedback

21:24 Balancing Teamwork and Independence

21:35 Returning to Roots and Business Adaptation

22:36 Flood Crisis and Community Support

23:38 Relocating and Repurposing Spaces

25:20 Juggling Family and Business Responsibilities

27:38 Coping Mechanisms for Busy Minds

32:48 Training and Team Development

37:51 Learning from Mistakes and Implementing Policies

44:41 Future Goals and Aspirations

45:33 Conclusion and Gratitude

You don’t need to do it alone, Salon Owner Babes!

Rising Finances Online helps you understand your finances and grow your salon business. It has 9 detailed modules and 65 in-depth lessons. You also get hours of expert advice. Take control of your finances and plan for success with confidence.

Let’s rise together – sign up today!

https://www.salonrising.com/rising-finances-online


https://www.salonrising.com/

Find out more and watch out for updates on socials @ -

https://www.instagram.com/salonrising_/

Hit subscribe for more real, inspiring convos!

In this episode in the inner sanctum, we chat with Bridget, owner of The Tortoise and the Hare, about the unfiltered reality of running a salon—through the highs, the struggles, and everything in between. From navigating staff changes to expanding her salon while battling severe illness during her pregnancies, Bridget shares her raw and personal journey.

This honest, heart-to-heart conversation dives into how she balanced family life, business growth, and health while staying true to her values. If you’ve ever wondered what it really takes to build a business you’re proud of, this episode is for you.


00:00 Episode Summary

01:36 Podcast Introduction and Special Guest Announcement

02:31 Bridget's Journey: From Admin Job to Salon Owner

03:30 Building a Community and Managing Relationships

09:13 The Evolution of Salon Services and Client Demands

10:40 Balancing Personal Life and Business Growth

12:35 Expanding the Business: New Salon Ventures

14:33 Staffing Challenges and Finding Stability

21:57 Reflecting on the Journey and Future Plans

29:24 Balancing Salon Management and Personal Life

30:25 Returning to the Salon: Challenges and Adjustments

31:14 Reflecting on 10 Years in Business

33:26 The Emotional Rollercoaster of Client Reactions

35:29 Navigating Staff and Client Relationships

50:40 Financial Wisdom and Business Growth

53:17 The Importance of Community and Support

55:56 Concluding Thoughts and Future Plans


You don’t need to do it alone, Salon Owner Babes!

Rising Finances Online helps you understand your finances and grow your salon business. It has 9 detailed modules and 65 in-depth lessons. You also get hours of expert advice. Take control of your finances and plan for success with confidence.

Let’s rise together – sign up today!

https://www.salonrising.com/rising-finances-online


https://www.salonrising.com/

Find out more and watch out for updates on socials @ -

https://www.instagram.com/salonrising_/