Welcome to Part 1 of a two-part series where I’m joined by Alex Walker—a Torquay-based haircutting specialist, educator and the founder of AW Hair and Alex Walker Education. We recorded this episode inside Alex’s purpose-built education studio in Torquay, Devon (UK)—a dedicated space away from the salon where hairdressers can learn through in-person sessions, small groups, and online education, while staying connected to real, commercial salon work.

Alex’s journey began at 17, when he fell into hairdressing almost by accident. What started as a job became a craft. He went all-in on haircutting—especially short hair—with a mission to raise standards and help hairdressers understand the why behind what they do.

We dig into the realities of ambition, rapid growth, and salon ownership—and the moment everything changed. After his businesses went into liquidation, Alex was left asking: “I haven’t got five days’ worth of clients… what am I gonna do now?”

This is a powerful conversation on resilience, rebuilding, and staying commercially relevant.

 

 

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Today’s Guest

Alex Walker is an international haircutting educator, salon professional, and business owner dedicated to helping stylists build confidence behind the chair. Through simple, effective, and results-driven education, he supports hairdressers around the world in refining their skills, growing their careers, and removing the fear from haircutting. With over 20 years of industry experience, Alex continues to work hands-on as a stylist while collaborating with global brands to create education programmes and impactful social media content. His real-time salon experience, combined with his work on an international level, allows him to deliver relevant, modern education that truly supports today’s hairdresser.

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