As 2025 comes to an end we’re taking a moment to reflect on the year we've had.

In part one of this two part end of year podcast, I’m joined by Sasha and India to talk openly about what 2025 really looked like behind the scenes of our businesses.

We’re sharing our biggest business highs, the moments we’re genuinely proud of, the lows that challenged us, and the lessons 2025 taught us about growth, boundaries, patience, and running a beauty business in the real world.

This episode is for anyone who’s had a mixed year, questioned their progress, or wants reassurance that growth doesn’t always look linear.

In this epsiode we cover:

• How we’d sum up 2025 as a whole
• Our biggest business wins and proud moments
• What didn’t go to plan and what we’d do differently
• Lessons we’re taking forward into 2026

This is part one of a two part end of year reflection. In part two, we’ll be looking ahead to 2026... what we’re leaving behind, the goals we’re setting, and how we want the year to feel.

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to follow, rate, and share the podcast, it really does help more than you know 🤍

It’s officially Christmas in the nail salon and we’re talking about everything that comes with it.

In this episode of Nails & Yap I'm joined by Chiara to dive into what nail techs really think about the festive season behind the desk. From the things we love about December appointments to the things we absolutely don’t, nothing is off limits.

Let's talk:

• Christmas in the nail salon: the good, the bad, and the chaotic

• Client gifting etiquette - should we buy clients gifts?

• Controversial Christmas nail art opinions 👀

• Festive nail trends and whether they’re a yes or a no

• A Christmas quick-fire round

• Clients eating mince pies mid-appointment (and the crumbs that follow…)

This episode is perfect for nail techs, beauty professionals, and anyone who loves a behind-the-scenes look at salon life during the busiest time of year. Expect honest opinions, relatable moments, and plenty of festive chaos.

Whether you’re fully booked until New Year or just love salon stories, this one will feel very familiar.

Feeling isolated as a nail tech? In this episode, I chat with Olivia about the importance of community, mentorship, and ongoing education in the nail industry. We explore how supportive networks, peer groups, and guidance from experienced educators can help nail artists grow their skills, boost confidence, and run a thriving business.

Olivia shares her perspective on the gaps in nail education, including business skills, client care, mindset, and aftercare… areas which are often missing from standard courses. We discuss practical ways to build a connected, supportive nail community that empowers techs instead of leaving them overwhelmed or burned out.

Plus, our “Nightmare from the Nail Desk” segment tackles real world challenges, like handling clients who question pricing when you invest in upgrading your nail setup.

Whether you’re a beginner or experienced nail tech, this episode is packed with tips for nail artists, educators, and beauty professionals to strengthen your network, improve your skills, and grow your nail career.

💅 Follow, subscribe, and join us as we explore how collaboration and mentorship can transform the nail industry.

I'm joined by Jennie Padbury, queen of real no holds barred content, to discuss what professionalism is as a nail tech. What do we consider professional, when do we filter ourselves, and which topics we think are a no go in the nail salon!

From Mounjaro to conspiracy theories - we share our tips for navigating tricky conversations, and how to show up authentically and unapologetically whilst in a service industry.

Products mentioned:

Nail Order - Dura Gel Lite

Nail Order Thermo Pro Gel Warmer

In this episode I'm joined by Jess to talk all about fitness and health as a nail tech, and how she fits it into her busy diary.

From setting boundaries to eating peperamis, Jess is full of helpful advice for those of you looking to incorporate wellness into your life when you're in a job that doesn't always go hand in hand with work/life balance.

We also solve a dilemma from someone who's client likes to wear sweaty gym gloves to her appointments... we say fire her! (as always...)

Thank you for watching - products/services mentioned:

Nail Order pricing calculator: https://nailorder.co.uk/hr/blogs/tips-and-tricks/how-to-use-the-pricing-calculator?srsltid=AfmBOoqvBLVa1Dsv-leM83jH6C2Gc4cl_nUZXwz-bVpZt51aVEIo84uL

Scratch Mag Katie Barnes pricing spreadsheet: https://www.scratchmagazine.co.uk/feature/how-to-work-out-what-you-need-to-charge-for-nail-services-in-10-steps/

Harriet Westmoreland: https://www.instagram.com/harrietwestmoreland

Jess' PT: https://www.instagram.com/daisy_p.t_/

Products used:

Nail Order Builder in a Pot in shade Sublime

Sissi Easy Squeezi

Magpie Felix Powder

Products Mentioned:

Makartt Rhinestone Glue

Sissi Clay

HONA Cat Eye Top Coat

Jess' Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jesso.nails

Jess' new studio: https://www.instagram.com/portstudio.sk

When it comes to choosing nail products to use on your clients, is it better to stick with one brand or mix and match? In this episode I'm joined by Beauty By Sophie O to talk about the pros and cons of brand loyalty as a nail tech.

We share our experience with different systems, how brand choice can impact your services, and what to consider before committing. Whether you're just starting out, thinking about switching things up, or you just want to hear our thoughts on the topic... this one's for you.

Beauty By Sasha joins me to discuss all things events... from pre event anxiety to fire breathers, road tripping, and dancing until 3am! After meeting Sasha at a Manchester nail tech networking event, we've since gone to two more together including the HONA After Christmas party, so who better to come onto the podcast and chat all about nail industry events?!

Episode 6 is kindly sponsored by HONA, who are offering 10% discount for listeners with the code NAILSANDYAP. One time use, one per customer to be redeemed on their website.

After an (unplanned) hiatus whilst I got married - Nails and Yap is back!!

In today's episode I'm chatting with Novo Geo, Nail Order's Manchester Xtensions educator, studio owner, and all round top gal. We're both yappers so strap in, it's a long one!

Mentioned in the podcast:

All Nails Welcome Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/allnailswelcome/

Find Georgia

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/novo_geo

Studio Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/novo_studio.mcr

Education Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/novo_education.mcr

Nail Order Xtensions Course: https://nailorder.co.uk/products/testing-xtensions-in-person?srsltid=AfmBOoqwMvSgHkOyP9RKFGwvHnGRJbiTusE08b0cQSIoVxRwjhV5ae7j