In today’s episode, I sit down with the incredibly inspiring Heather Jane Wayne—an adult learner from Coleg Menai in North Wales—whose journey into hairdressing began not in a salon, but through sheer grit, self-teaching, and an unshakable desire to create something of her own.

Heather didn’t take the traditional route. Originally studying to become a teacher, she started doing hair-up styles as a side hustle while working long hours as a care worker. That “side hustle” soon blossomed into a thriving bridal hair business—and opened the door to a complete career transformation.

What struck me most was how Heather refused to let her circumstances define her. As a single mum to two children, one of whom has additional needs, she has consistently shown determination, heart, and a love of learning that radiates in everything she does.

We talk about how she battled imposter syndrome, what gave her the courage to go back to college, and how competitions like UK Skills, Welsh Skills, and Concept Hair helped shape her confidence. She’s even been nominated for Student of the Year and is a finalist for multiple Purple Hearts Awards.

Her honesty, energy, and growth mindset are infectious—and I know her story will ignite something in anyone who’s ever doubted themselves or wondered if it’s too late to start over.

🔑 Key Takeaways:

• You’re never “too old” or “too busy” to start again.
• A growth mindset and the willingness to say yes can open doors you never imagined.
• Self-belief doesn’t come first—it grows as you show up.
• Competitions, mentors, and community can fast-track both confidence and career.
• You can balance motherhood and ambition—with the right support and self-compassion.

Tune in and get ready to be inspired by Heather’s journey from side hustle to a professional hairdresser with big dreams ahead.

💡 Let’s Connect: Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who needs a reminder that it’s never too late.

Guest: Rhys Hillman

In this episode, I sit down for one of the most personal and proudest interviews I’ve ever done—chatting with my son, Rhys Hillman, about his incredible journey into the barbering industry. At just 19, Rhys is already carving out a name for himself in the high-end world of men’s grooming, but his story starts long before his first fade.

We talk about the early days—those Saturday shifts in our family salon when he was just nine, and the detour he took into graphic design during the pandemic. What stands out most is the moment barbering clicked for him: not as an add-on to hairdressing, but as a unique, expressive craft he could call his own.

Rhys opens up about his bold decision to move away from home for hands-on training at Crate Cheshire and how he hustled for models any way he could—knocking on doors, even trying Grindr! We explore how working on a Christmas tree farm gave him the grit and work ethic he now brings into every haircut.

This isn’t just a story of talent—it’s about persistence, growth, and creating something that feels personal and powerful for every client who sits in his chair. From his first editorial photo shoot to making it to the finals of the Modern Barber Awards, Rhys has stayed humble, hungry, and always willing to learn.

Key Takeaways (from me, as a mum and a host):

• The beginning is hard, but the hustle builds character.
• Relationships matter—real connection turns clients into loyal regulars.
• Don’t compare, be inspired—growth takes time.
• Confidence isn’t perfection; it’s progress.
• Define who you want to be early on, then chase it unapologetically.
• Keep learning—education and discomfort are both fuel for greatness.

This episode is more than just a career story. It’s a reflection on resilience, family, and the power of backing your passion with everything you’ve got. Rhys reminds us that chasing the cut isn’t just about technique—it’s about creating a life you love, one haircut at a time.

https://belindamindset.com/store

https://belindamindset.com/belinda-hillman

Special Guests: Milly Ockmore, Rosie Davies, and Katie Sime

In this powerful and heartwarming episode, I sit down with three incredible young women—Milly Ockmore, Rosie Davies, and Katie Sime—each a medalist from the prestigious WorldSkills competition. What starts as a conversation about styling and skills turns into a beautiful exploration of confidence, growth, and how saying “yes” to an opportunity can change your life.

Milly, shares how finishing school during COVID left her feeling uncertain—until she discovered hairdressing and found her spark. I encouraged her to enter WorldSkills, and to her surprise, she kept progressing… all the way to a medal. Her journey reminds me—and all of us—that even when we’re unsure, showing up and finishing what we start can unlock potential we didn’t know we had.

Rosie brings such depth and thoughtfulness to our chat. She opens up about her experiences in both AHT and WorldSkills competitions, sharing how breaking styles down into simple sections helped her succeed. Her go-to product? Wella Shine Spray! And she’s gearing up for her End Point Assessment, which I was thrilled to support with a guided visualisation tool—because yes, mental rehearsal isn’t just for athletes.

Then comes Katie, the gold medalist from Red Hair Company, whose quiet determination and resilience stole my heart. She credits her success to the incredible mentors around her—including Rosie—and the courage to step outside her comfort zone, even when the pressure was high.

Together, these women are proof that talent flourishes in the right environment—with belief, guidance, and community. Whether you’re a learner, a mentor, or someone searching for your “thing,” this episode is a celebration of grit, growth, and girl power. Tune in—you’ll leave inspired to take your own leap.

Here are the key takeaways from the episode:

1. Confidence grows when we say “yes” before we feel ready. Saying yes, even when unsure, opens doors to growth and opportunity.
2. Mentorship—and a little healthy pressure—can be life-changing. Support from mentors can help push us out of our comfort zones and guide us to success.
3. Hands-on learning builds real-world skills—and real-world belief. Practical experience in the field teaches not only technical skills but also boosts self-confidence.
4. Simplify, practice, and trust the process. Break tasks down into manageable steps, keep practicing, and trust that progress will come.
5. The right support system makes all the difference. Being surrounded by a supportive community can inspire motivation and success, especially when challenges arise.

https://belindamindset.com/store

https://belindamindset.com/belinda-hillman