171 Using Your Skill with Scissors and Comb to Give Back in Another Way with Stewart Roberts

A hairdressing career can take you to many places and enable you to meet many people from all walks of life.  Many of us are drawn into the industry because of the fashion and creative aspects that a hairdressing career presents.  But, there are some who use their skill with scissors and comb to give back to society in another way. My guest today is one such person.  Stewart Roberts is the founder of Haircuts 4 Homeless, a registered charity in the UK and Ireland that has grown into an army of over 600 volunteers working through 80 outlets. To date, they have given over 50,000 haircuts to the homeless. As Stewart says, “It’s not a job; it’s a calling.” Stewart was awarded an MBE [Member of the British Empire] from Princess Anne in recognition of his work with the homeless, and personally, I can't think of anyone more deserving.  If you want to learn more about what Stewart does and how you can support him, visit haircuts4Homeless.com.   In this Episode: [03:01] Stewart shares why losing his salon was a blessing in disguise.  [06:40] The personal journey that inspired Stewart to found Haircuts 4 Homeless and how the concept has evolved over time.    [11:39] Stewart shares the final straw that drove him to get help for his alcohol and drug addiction.  [16:49] How hairdressing has the power to break down barriers. [20:19] The mindset shift that is required when cutting the hair of homeless people. [23:21] Stories of people who have had their lives transformed through Haircuts 4 Homeless. [28:50] How the National Lottery changed the trajectory of Stewart’s life. [32:18] A look behind the scenes of the running of Haircuts 4 Homeless. [35:42] The process of creating the coffee table book, Hear Me, See Me.  [38:09] Examples of the stories you will hear on Stewart’s podcast, “Hear Me, See Me”.  [41:10] Stewart explains how his podcast came into being (and the episode that has had the biggest impact on him). [49:28] Stewart's biggest strength, what motivates him, and the biggest lesson he has learned in his life.    Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated!  They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast.  I also love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast! Just click here to review, scroll to the bottom, tap “Ratings and Reviews,” tap to rate with 5 stars, and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favourite part of the podcast is. Thank you for your support! Special thanks to Stewart for sharing his insights with me for this week’s episode. Until next time! Antony   Links and Resources: Grow My Salon Business  Website | Facebook | Instagram | TikTok   Haircuts 4 Homeless Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram   Hear Me, See Me Podcast | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook   Stewart Roberts Instagram | LinkedIn | Twitter | Facebook | Episode with Brother Kevin   Capuchin Day Centre for Homeless People Website