Time to Level Up: Lessons from Erica Six on Sobriety, Salon Growth & Real Industry Talk
Nick MirabellaWhat does it really take to succeed in the salon industry — not just creatively, but personally and financially?
In this powerful episode of The Mirabella Podcast, stylist and salon owner Erica Six, co-owner of Blonde Culture Salon, joins the show for a conversation that’s raw, inspiring, and filled with real advice for stylists ready to grow.
From starting a career later in life, to building a team, to navigating sobriety, social media, pricing, and even psychedelics — this episode is a blueprint for personal and professional transformation.
1. It’s Never Too Late to Start Your Career
Both Erica and the host began their hair careers later than most — in their late 20s and 30s — and they agree: age is not a limitation in this industry.
“You’re not too old at 26, or 36, or 46. You can still do so much.” – Erica Six
In fact, being older can be a superpower — you likely have stronger people skills, understand client relationships better, and can relate to real-life challenges.
2. Sobriety = Success in the Salon
Erica opens up about her early career struggles with alcohol and how getting sober changed everything.
“Once I got sober, I became consistent, professional, and built a clientele I could keep.”
The host echoes the impact of quitting drinking, linking sobriety to showing up like a true professional — not just in behavior, but in value and pricing too.
Advice for stylists: Take one year off drinking. See how much more clearly you show up for yourself and your clients.
3. Psychedelics, Microdosing & Mindset Work
This isn’t your average hair industry talk — the host shares how he’s used plant medicine (like psilocybin microdosing and Ayahuasca) for clarity, insight, and unlocking creative flow.
“Psychedelics reveal what you need to fix — they’re not for escape, they’re for self-work.”
Erica expresses curiosity and openness, and the conversation draws a clear line between intentional plant-based healing and substance abuse.
4. Building a Team & Culture That Actually Works
Erica shares her process of co-owning Blonde Culture Salon and the importance of being selective when hiring.
“We’re transparent about what we’re looking for — we don’t just bring in anyone.”
Pro Tip: Share your values, create a culture agreement, and grow slow if needed.
5. Raise Your Prices. No More Guilt.
Every stylist has faced the emotional block of raising prices — especially when clients feel like friends.
“Put a price menu in your phone and don’t deviate. The price is the price.” – Erica
When it’s time to raise your rates:
- Booked out 2+ months
- Cost of living has increased
- You’re consistently investing in continued education
And yes — it’s okay to lose clients who won’t pay your worth.
6. Try Everything, Then Find Your Niche
New stylists, this one’s for you: say yes to every service early in your career.
“You might think you want to specialize in blonding — but discover you’re brilliant at extensions or cutting.”
After a few years of trying everything, then it’s time to niche down and refine your offering.
7. Your Personality Is Your Superpower
In an age of aesthetic feeds and curated hair pages, the stylists who stand out are the ones who show up as themselves.
“If you love horseback riding, post about it. That’s a connection point.”
Erica has gained clients specifically because they related to her sobriety journey — and her cats.
Takeaway: Be YOU online. It attracts people who want your vibe, not just your skill.
8. Protect Yourself: Use Contracts for High-Ticket Services
When a client disputes a charge or a service goes wrong, a signed agreement protects you.
“Your consultation should outline the process, pricing, and expectations — and get it in writing.”
Even better? Record the consultation or walk through a digital form together.
9. Mentor Through Real Experience
The host shares his coaching model: having assistants apply color, sit through client interactions, and experience the emotional side of the work — not just the technical.
“They learn how to recover from mistakes, handle awkward moments, and learn how we apply energy — not just color.”
Then, at the end of the day? Celebrate the wins.
10. Mindset + Education = Your Future
Erica and the host agree: Your mindset will make or break you.
The host shares how Tony Robbins’ Business Mastery program helped shape his pricing, salon structure, and even daily habits — like scheduling a nightly reminder to “celebrate your wins.”
“You don’t realize how far you’ve come until you pause and look back.”
Final Thoughts: Level Up With Intentional Action
This episode is a reminder that growth in the salon industry isn’t just about technique — it’s about alignment.
- Align your habits (sobriety, mindset, routines)
- Align your team (shared values, selective hiring)
- Align your pricing (know your worth)
- Align your content (show your true self)
When you do that, leveling up stops being a dream — and becomes a system.