In this episode of the Inner Sanctum, join us in Budapest as we celebrated 20 years of Kevin Murphy! We were lucky to be joined by special guest Peter McDonald, CEO and co-founder of the Kevin Murphy brand. Peter shares his journey from a shampoo salesman to the CEO of Kevin Murphy.
Peter has such a passion for the industry which is still very evident. We talk thoughtful communication and the importance of relationships within the industry. The evolving nature of the salon business. And how a passion for solving problems can drive success in the haircare industry. Peter also speaks into the importance of maintaining company culture. Adapting to social and digital changes and preparing the next generation to take over the business.
00:00 Introduction to the Inner Sanctum Salon Rising
00:13 Meet Peter McDonald: The Shampoo Salesman Extraordinaire
00:39 The Genesis of Kevin Murphy
01:40 Building a Business in Scandinavia
07:55 The Impact of COVID on the Hairdressing Industry
12:12 The Importance of Relationships in Business
28:07 The Role of Social Media and Digital Marketing
31:06 Marketing vs. Social Media: A Fascinating Divide
31:29 The Human Element in Social Media
32:08 Balancing Control and Freedom in Branding
32:19 The Power of Personal Connection
33:08 The Importance of Authenticity
34:17 Building Trust Through Social Media
34:56 The Role of Sales Reps in Client Relationships
35:50 Focusing on Others: A Key to Success
37:24 Personal Stories and Client Engagement
38:11 Solving Problems and Building Relationships
38:40 A Day in the Life: Personal Insights
39:44 Family Dynamics and Work-Life Balance
41:39 The Future of the Company
42:39 The Value of Industry Experience
43:16 The Journey of Growth and Success
52:08 Promoting the Hairdressing Industry
55:31 Changing the Narrative of the Industry
56:09 Conclusion and Gratitude
Mentioned in this episode:
https://www.salonrising.com
🎧 Event Spotlight: THIS GENERATION
THIS GENERATION, presented by Monique McMahon, is a one-day, industry-led education experience bringing together three hair artists and three unique creative perspectives.
Joining Monique on the day are Taylah Jones and UK award-winning colourist Luci Green, sharing modern technique, global trends and ideas you can take straight back behind the chair.
The day also includes a business and mindset conversation supported by Salon Rising, with Jen and Samara attending on the day.
📍 Edwards & Co Fortitude Valley
🗓 Monday, 2 March 2026
🎟 Tickets are limited — find all the details via the link below 👇
This Generation
💛 A HUGE Thank You to Our Podcast Sponsors - Timely
We’ve partnered with Timely to bring you something special:
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➡ New customers get 50% off their first 3 months.
If you've been thinking about levelling up your salon systems, this is your moment. Timely is designed specifically for salons. Helping you manage bookings, clients, staff, and more with ease.
Use the code SALONRISING at checkout or click the link below to to claim the offer. 👇
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