Hairstylists Belong On Stage!

In this episode, I’m breaking down why stage work matters for hairdressers and barbers—and why it might be the missing piece in your career.

Performing live builds real skills. Communication. Presentation. Confidence. The ability to hold a room’s attention. These aren’t just stage tricks. They transfer directly to your consultations, your client relationships, and how you carry yourself behind the chair.

I also dig into how stage work unlocks creativity. There’s a big difference between the day-to-day routine of salon work and the freedom to create bold, expressive, editorial looks for an audience of your peers. That kind of work helps you define your identity. It gets you noticed.

Then I talk about the career doors that open when you’re seen on stage. Educator roles. Brand ambassador spots. Art team positions. Session work. Social media matters—but live visibility hits different.

I share my own journey learning stage craft. Demonstrations. Hosting events. Building confidence under pressure. And I explain why stage work feels more important now than ever. In a world run by algorithms and AI, in-person performance can’t be replicated.

I also introduce SHAIR! UNDRGRND—a live stage format I created for rising talent. Here’s how it works: a short prep period, a 10-minute live performance, a timed reveal, and a follow-up talk on stage. No polish. No filters. Just raw hair performance and real community support.

Finally, I look ahead to SHAIR!UNDRGRND at HairCon in Manchester on 14 and 15 June, with an after-dark event on the Sunday evening. If you’re a stylist, colourist, new gen-art team or educator—I’m inviting you to apply HERE for standby spots or the UK tour. Come along. Support the event. Take your first step onto stage.

Because hairstylists belong on stage. Including you!

Show notes

Todays guest

Dom Lehane How To Cut It podcast hairdressing community babers

APPLY FOR A STAGE SPOT AT SHAIR! UNDRGRND HERE GET TICKETS TO HAIRCON HERE (USE CODE HTC10 FOR 10% OFF ALL TICKET PURCHASE) FOLLOW SHAIR! ON INSTAGRAM @WEARESHAIR CONNECT WITH DOM ON INSTAGRAM @DOMLEHANE FIND OUT MORE ON TODAYS PAID SPONSORS KERATIN COMPLEX HERE