Today’s guest is Cyd Charisse, the co-founder and co-owner of Destroy the Hairdresser, a coaching company that’s not just breaking the mold but smashing it to pieces.
Indeed, Cyd is a force to be reckoned with. Known for her straightforward, no-nonsense approach to coaching, focusing on big changes and accountability, she’s not just talking the talk—she’s walked the walk. Starting her career as a hairstylist in 2008, Cyd quickly climbed the ranks in various salons, often working hand-in-hand with owners to improve their businesses.
Frustrated by an industry more focused on selling products than the art of hairstyling, she and her business partner decided to do something radical. In 2015, they initially launched Destroy the Hairdresser as a blog that caught fire almost instantly. Despite a six-figure offer to buy and shut down the blog, they persevered, believing in their mission to revolutionize the industry.
Fast forward to today, and their company has crossed the million-dollar revenue mark. But as Cyd will tell you, revenue and profit are not the same thing, and the journey has been anything but smooth.
In this episode, you’ll hear about Cyd’s ambitious plans to open her own chain of salons and her mission to change the narrative in an industry where many hairstylists are struggling and leaving the profession. Cyd also takes us through the early days of Destroy the Hairdresser, how she and her business partner weathered the COVID-19 pandemic, and their unique “forever coaching” model that offers salon owners and stylists a personalized, “uncomfortably affordable” coaching experience.
Whether you’re a salon owner, stylist, or curious about the transformative power of coaching, this episode is full of wisdom, strategies, and real-world insights you won’t want to miss.
Episode Highlights
[06:11] Cyd Charisse’s journey from hairstylist to co-founding a million-dollar coaching business.
[14:55] Why Cyd’s coaching business focuses on fostering strong, non-toxic leadership within the salon industry.
[22:31] How Cyd Charisse uses boundary-setting and time-blocking to run her business.
[27:18] The rigorous vetting and training process Cyd uses to onboard coaches.
[33:35] The potential profitability and value of the salon industry, according to Cyd Charisse.
Links Relevant to this Episode
Cyd Charisse Official Website
Cyd’s Instagram
Looking for more tips on how to grow, scale, and ultimately sell your hair salon business? Check out our other Unchained From the Chair podcast episodes.
