303 What 30+ Years in Salons Taught Me About People, Pay, and Purpose with Keri Davis-Duffy

In this episode, I sit down with long-time industry leader Keri Davis-Duffy, whose career as a salon owner and educator spans more than three decades. Keri shares the wisdom earned through real-life experience, leading employee-based salons in a state that turned compensation models on their head, navigating leadership challenges, building culture, and bouncing back from the inevitable setbacks every salon owner faces.

We talk candidly about staff walkouts, transitioning to hourly pay, creating flexible schedules for today’s workforce, and the crucial difference between being a great hairdresser and being a great business owner. Keri doesn’t sugarcoat it; salon ownership today is a different game entirely, but she offers grounded, inspiring advice for those brave enough to take it on. If you’re serious about building a business that lasts, you’ll want to soak up every minute of this conversation.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• [00:00] Welcome and guest introduction
• [00:56] Keri’s salon history and business model
• [04:17] Why she built an employee-based salon in a booth rental world
• [09:44] How California’s labor laws changed compensation models
• [15:14] Designing an hourly pay system that rewards productivity
• [19:35] Tracking performance and managing seasonal fluctuations
• [24:07] Wisdom for new salon owners in 2025
• [30:13] The walkout that changed everything
• [34:05] Lessons in leadership and communication during crisis
• [38:26] Adapting to Gen Z and flexibility in scheduling
• [41:36] Biggest challenges facing the salon industry today
• [43:14] Quick-fire insights: manufacturers, educators, tragedy, drama & more
• [51:24] The value of mentorship and giving back

Want MORE to help you GROW?

📚 Check out our Bestselling GROW Books https://growmysalonbusiness.com/books/

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Until next time!
Antony

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