Resilience, Motherhood and Salon Leadership: Brodie’s Story of Strength
Running a salon is never just about hair, it’s about people, resilience, and the way life weaves itself into business. In this deeply moving episode of Salon Rising: The Podcast, we sit down with my dear friend and client, Brodie from Smooth Hair, to share her extraordinary journey.
Over the last twelve months, Brodie has faced one of the hardest battles any mother can imagine: her daughter’s leukemia diagnosis. At the same time, she has continued to lead her salon, support her team, and hold her business steady through unimaginable personal trials. Her story is one of strength, perspective, and the incredible power of community.
If you’re a salon owner or beauty business professional searching for inspiration, this conversation will touch your heart and remind you why we do what we do.
From Victoria to Lennox: Building Smooth Hair
Brodie’s career started in Victoria, co-owning a salon with her sister before making the bold decision to move to Lennox Head. It wasn’t long before she found a heritage building in Alstonville and turned it into the home of Smooth Hair, a salon that would soon become her second family.
Started Smooth Hair nearly ten years ago at just 25
Built a thriving client base through trust and connection
Grew her team carefully, adding apprentices and stylists who became like family
Her first apprentice, Alex, is now her salon manager and a pillar of strength during her toughest times. His loyalty and leadership reflect the culture Brodie has nurtured, one of care, respect, and growth.
The Power of Preparing Your Business
One of the most powerful lessons Brodie shares is how preparing your team and systems can carry your business when life changes overnight.
Before her family trip last year, she had already begun training Alex in leadership and finances. That preparation became a lifeline when her world turned upside down.
💡 Salon owner takeaway: Building systems, empowering your team, and knowing your numbers can safeguard your business in ways you might never expect.
When Life Stands Still: A Mother’s Battle
Halfway through what was meant to be a family holiday, Brodie’s daughter Maxie was diagnosed with leukemia. In a moment, everything shifted.
From hospital stays to daily treatments, steroids, and endless appointments, Brodie and her partner had to navigate the unimaginable. Yet through it all, she found strength in perspective.
“Life can change in a heartbeat,” she says. “So let’s enjoy what we do every day.”
This mindset didn’t just carry her, it carried her team. Smooth Hair kept its doors open, clients were looked after, and the salon remained strong, even while Brodie spent nearly a year away.
Lessons in Leadership and Perspective
Brodie’s journey holds lessons every salon owner can hold close.
Perspective is everything. A difficult client or a slow week is nothing compared to what really matters.
Your team is your backbone. Investing in people means your business can thrive even in your absence.
Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Coaching, mentorship, and leaning on community can change everything.
Celebrate the small wins. Normal routines, supportive texts, and a busy salon chair all become blessings when life feels uncertain.
The Heart of Salon Culture
What shines most from Brodie’s story is her commitment to creating a salon culture that feels safe, joyful, and supportive. Smooth Hair isn’t just a workplace, it’s a refuge. For her team, her clients, and for Brodie herself.
That’s the true secret to longevity in the beauty industry: building an environment where people walk in one version of themselves and leave lighter, happier, and more connected.
A Reflection for Every Salon Owner
Brodie’s courage reminds us that behind every successful salon is a woman with her own battles, her own resilience, and her own heart. Running a business while facing life’s hardest moments isn’t about perfection, it’s about showing up, leaning on others, and holding onto what matters most.
As salon owners, it’s easy to let the little things consume us. But Brodie’s story is proof that perspective changes everything.
✨ If this story touched you, I encourage you to listen to the full episode. You’ll hear Brodie’s voice, her honesty, and her laughter even in the hardest of times.
🎧 Listen now and explore more episodes here → Salon Rising: The Podcast
