If you're a salon owner thinking about hiring your first assistant—or you're already in the thick of it—this episode is for you . I’m diving deep into the truth behind what it really takes to bring someone onto your team… and it’s probably not what you’ve been told. We’re talking about why most salon owners wait way too long to hire, the uncomfortable (but necessary) mindset shifts, and the emotional rollercoaster that comes with leadership. Spoiler alert: it’s never going to feel “perfect,” and...
Jun 30, 2025•16 min•Ep. 134
In this episode of Level Up with Lacey , I’m taking it back to the beginning — to the version of me who was scared to spend a dime on her business. The one who second-guessed every investment, worried about every dollar, and didn’t yet understand what true growth required. Whether you're just starting out or you're standing on the edge of your next big move, this one’s for YOU. I’m sharing the 6 things I wish someone had told me when I was scared to invest — the mindset shifts, lessons, and mone...
Jun 23, 2025•24 min•Ep. 133
What happens when you find yourself in back-to-back rooms with some of the most powerful women in business? This episode is a behind-the-scenes look at one of the most surreal weeks of my business journey — from a private mastermind in Nashville with my coach and mentor Amy Porterfield, to hopping on a plane and joining Britt Seva and the Thrivers Community at the X Retreat in San Antonio. Talk about a pinch-me moment (or two). But this wasn’t just a fun week — it was a game-changing one. These ...
Jun 16, 2025•22 min•Ep. 132
“I’m canceling my appointment. The price I paid? No way. Disappointing.” That was the message my student (and dear friend) received from a client — and she was crushed. The client didn’t understand why an assistant had worked on her, questioned the pricing, and accused her of being unethical. Oof. Those texts hit hard — especially when you’re working so hard to build something bigger than yourself. But here’s the truth: If you’ve ever received feedback like this… you are not failing. Your assist...
Jun 09, 2025•18 min•Ep. 131
Let’s talk about silence — not as weakness, but as power. In today’s episode, I’m pulling back the curtain on a tough chapter in my leadership journey. Earlier this year, I released a podcast episode that stirred up some real emotions — especially with a few former team members. I almost didn’t post it. I questioned everything, even texting Mel asking, “Should we really release this?” But I knew in my gut that I needed to share my truth. What happened next? I got pages of feedback from past empl...
Jun 02, 2025•23 min•Ep. 130
Ever feel like the days fly by and you’re left wondering where your time actually went? Yep — I’ve been there too. In this episode, I’m sharing the exact strategies that helped me go from constantly overwhelmed and “on call” 24/7… to feeling more focused, more protected, and more in control of my schedule. We all get the same 24 hours. But how you spend them? That’s what determines your peace, your productivity, and your progress. I’m breaking down the three time management tools I use every wee...
May 26, 2025•18 min•Ep. 129
Let’s talk about the unsexy hour that completely transformed my business. In this episode, I’m pulling back the curtain on the one hour each week that made the biggest difference in my salon’s financial health — and no, I’m not the one categorizing every transaction. From bi-weekly meetings with my CFO to reviewing monthly P&Ls and making data-backed decisions, I’m sharing exactly what this rhythm looks like inside both LG and Salon Lace. If you're avoiding your numbers, overwhelmed by Quick...
May 19, 2025•20 min•Ep. 128
Ever feel like you’re either winning big or completely failing ? That black-and-white thinking kept me stuck for years — and in this episode, I’m sharing how running a half marathon (and nearly falling apart during it) became the wake-up call I didn’t know I needed. I’ll break down how the all-or-nothing mindset shows up in your business, keeps you in perfection mode, and delays the growth you’re working so hard for. More importantly, you’ll learn how to shift into progress-focused thinking that...
May 12, 2025•23 min•Ep. 127
In this episode, I’m joined by Heather Yacenda Burnside , owner of Studio H Salon in Wichita, KS, and mom of two little ones in the thick of the baby years. Heather shares candidly about the exhausting, beautiful, and chaotic season of balancing babies and business—and what she’s learned about grace, and redefining success along the way. Inside this episode: What life looks like right now with two young kids and a growing salon Boundaries that help her stay (somewhat) sane Encouragement for moms...
May 09, 2025•31 min•Ep. 126
In this deeply moving episode, I talk with Hayle Hendrix , a mom of two and owner of Salon Envy and The Willow Salon in Owasso, OK. Hayle opens up about her traumatic experience during the birth of her second child. She shares how she’s overcome struggles to not only build two successful salons but also pour back into her community in meaningful ways. Inside this conversation: Hayle’s journey through trauma, healing, and rebuilding The challenges of balancing recovery, motherhood, and business o...
May 09, 2025•41 min•Ep. 125
In this episode, I’m chatting with Meisha Manas , a mom to one sweet boy and owner of a truly legendary business trifecta: Legendary Salon, Juice Bar & Boutique in Red Bluff, CA. We talk about what it really takes to grow multiple businesses while raising a little one—and how Meisha stays grounded through it all. Inside this episode: What a day in Meisha’s world looks like (hint: it’s a lot!) Her biggest struggles balancing motherhood and running multiple businesses The moments she felt like...
May 07, 2025•38 min•Ep. 123
In this episode, I sit down with Sybil Manahan , proud mom of two teenage girls and owner of Haute Glam Studio in Johnson City, TN. Sybil shares what it’s like navigating the teen years while running a thriving salon—and how motherhood has shaped her leadership and vision. We cover: What life looks like with teens at home and a business to lead The hardest seasons she’s faced balancing family and work How she’s learned to let go of guilt and stay present The boundaries that keep her business (an...
May 07, 2025•48 min•Ep. 124
In our 2nd episode of our mothers day series, I’m joined by Shannon Atkinson , a proud mom of three girls and owner of the vibrant Hyde Salon in Kansas City. We get real about what it means to lead with heart while balancing the never-ending demands of motherhood and salon ownership. Shannon opens up about: What a real-life day looks like for her (and her girls!) The toughest moments she’s faced juggling motherhood and business Times she felt like she was failing—and how she worked through it Th...
May 05, 2025•31 min•Ep. 122
In this episode, I sit down with Bailey Hughes , a powerhouse mom of three and owner of not one but two thriving salon and spa locations: After FX Spa & Salon and After FX Hair Studio in Broken Arrow, OK. We dive deep into the real behind-the-scenes of what it takes to build a business while raising little ones—from impossible days to unexpected wins. Bailey gets vulnerable about: What her typical day really looks like (spoiler: it’s nonstop) The hardest part of balancing mom life and salon ...
May 05, 2025•34 min•Ep. 121
“I love this question!” 🙌🏻 If you’ve ever thought, “I don’t want to double book—so is an assistant even worth it?” this episode is a must-listen. We’re breaking the mold and busting the myth that assistants are only for stylists who double book. Truth is, working with an assistant isn’t about cramming your day — it’s about enhancing the guest experience and working smarter. Inside this episode, you’ll learn how to: ⚡ Create a luxury “Beyoncé-level” experience with two sets of hands ⚡ Increase ...
Apr 28, 2025•14 min•Ep. 120
Are you feeling defeated, burned out, or overly emotional about the hard stuff happening in your business right now? In this episode, I’m getting real about the tough decisions salon owners face — and how to stop letting emotions run the show. I’m currently in a season of making some seriously HARD business decisions, and let me tell you: it’s all business right now. No room for guilt, overthinking, or hurt feelings. We’re talking about what it means to take a pause, check your emotions at the d...
Apr 21, 2025•19 min•Ep. 119
In this special episode, we’re celebrating a BIG milestone— Mel’s 2-Year Anniversary with LG! 🥳 I’m sitting down with the one and only Mel (aka our operations wizard, support queen, and all-around rockstar) to talk about why her role has been absolutely critical to the growth of LG and the success of our students. We’re taking you behind the scenes to share: How we first met The story of how Mel applied for the position And most importantly… why Mel is the perfect fit for this career and commun...
Apr 14, 2025•48 min•Ep. 118
Are you constantly reminding your commission stylists to post their availability on social media? Feeling like a broken record while they keep saying things like “I don’t like being on camera” or “I want to be private” ? In today’s episode, we’re diving into the frustration that comes when your service providers aren’t pulling their weight when it comes to marketing themselves. Because let’s be real: it’s 2025… and social media is not optional anymore. We’ll cover: What to do when a stylist "doe...
Apr 07, 2025•25 min
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 . Here’s what we cover: ⭐️ 1:1 conversations are your ...
Mar 31, 2025•25 min•Ep. 116
In this episode, Lacey dives deep into the power of simplifying your business to amplify your results. What if doing less could actually get you more ? More clarity, more impact, more income, and more joy. It’s time to trade overwhelm for intention and get laser-focused on what truly moves the needle in your salon and life. What We Cover: Why more isn’t always better The power of focus and choosing quality over quantity How reducing your load can actually increase your results Real talk on downs...
Mar 24, 2025•22 min•Ep. 115
Have you been going back and forth about hiring a SECOND assistant?! Maybe you're working just a few days a week and thinking "WTF, how would I even schedule TWO people?!" I get it! And honestly, this might be the EXACT solution you've been looking for! In this episode I'm breaking down: The EXACT scheduling system I use to keep two assistants busy (without losing my mind in the process) How to make sure both assistants get equal opportunities to learn and grow (because we all know what happens ...
Mar 17, 2025•19 min•Ep. 114
The cat's out of the bag... The Culture Community is HERE! 🔥 For YEARS, I've been teaching salon owners how to recruit, hire, and train assistants. But I've never shared what happens next… until now! 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!...
Mar 10, 2025•31 min•Ep. 113
🎙️ Episode Summary: What do you do when a client says, “I don’t want anyone else working on me” ? It’s a challenge many stylist face, especially when transitioning to a new business model with assistants. But here’s the truth—you cannot let clients dictate how you run your business. In this episode, we’re breaking down exactly how to handle pushback from long-time clients while building a sustainable, scalable salon model. 💡 Here’s what we’re covering: ✅ Why you can’t let one guest make you be...
Mar 03, 2025•17 min•Ep. 112
🎙️ Episode Summary: As a salon owner, maintaining a positive, professional environment is key to creating an amazing experience for both your guests and your team. But what happens when inappropriate conversations start creeping onto the salon floor? In this episode, we’re diving into how to handle conversations around sensitive topics like politics, religion, partying, gossip, and more —both with customers and your team. 💬 What You’ll Learn: ✔️ How to address the issue directly while maintain...
Feb 24, 2025•19 min•Ep. 111
This week, we have an extra special episode featuring the incredible Jess Shelton ! She’s giving us an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at how she has grown both her team and herself to incredible success. Join Lacey and Jess as they dive deep into: ✨ Their daily rituals that set them up for success ✨ How to stay motivated , even on tough days ✨ The power of discipline in leadership and business growth ✨ Why showing up for yourself makes you a better leader for your team If you’re looking for in...
Feb 17, 2025•1 hr 7 min•Ep. 110
Grab our LG Education Tracker here⤵️ https://lg-education.kit.com/79e22eb54f In this episode, we tackle a hot topic in the salon industry: Should you cover the cost of your assistant’s education and certifications? Lacey breaks down the pros and cons, sharing her personal experience and a structured approach to education with your assistant. Key Takeaways: Should You Pay for an Extension Certification? – Short answer: No. Your assistants should learn to invest in themselves, just like you did. 9...
Feb 10, 2025•21 min•Ep. 109
Join The Assistant University here ⤵️ https://lg-education.mykajabi.com/AUpresale Your success is a direct reflection of the risks you’re willing to take. Staying comfortable won’t get you to the next level—it’s time to bet on yourself! In this episode, I share the biggest risks I’ve taken, including: ✅ Opening a salon & expanding ✅ Hiring & leading a team ✅ Ending a partnership & rebuilding my business ✅ Launching online education Did I always have the answers? No. But I trusted mys...
Feb 03, 2025•22 min•Ep. 108
Join The Assistant University here ⤵️ https://lg-education.mykajabi.com/AUpresale Growing a team is HARD AF, and in this episode, I’m spilling the tea on how I lost 9 stylists last year. Yep, you heard that right—9. The truth is, growing a team comes with its challenges, and no one ever said it was easy. People will come and go, and that’s a reality we have to face as salon owners. In this raw and honest conversation, I’ll share why these stylists left, the mistakes I made, and the lessons I lea...
Jan 27, 2025•36 min•Ep. 107
Hiring an assistant can feel overwhelming. In this episode, we tackle common fears like: Can I afford it? What if I invest time and they leave? Will it be worth it? We’ll cover mindset shifts to turn fear into action, how to see hiring as an investment in growth, and strategies to protect your business while growing your team. PLUS: An Exclusive Invitation If you’ve set goals like hiring new team members, working fewer hours while making more money, or building solid systems, join The Co-Stylist...
Jan 20, 2025•21 min•Ep. 106
Lacey dives into one of the biggest challenges stylists face when considering hiring an assistant: self-doubt . Common Questions : "Am I qualified to hire an assistant?" "Who am I to be someone’s boss?" Inspiration : Lacey helps you overcome the fear and doubt holding you back from taking this transformative step in your career. What You'll Learn : Benchmarks to confidently know you’re ready to bring on an assistant. 10 clear signs that it’s time to hire. Get ready to shift your mindset, embrace...
Jan 13, 2025•27 min•Ep. 105
