Best Topper Specialist Podcasts (2024)

1
Head Space: Advice on alternative hair fit for those on the larger side 14:57

17d ago14:57

14:57

Almost everyone knows that there are such a thing as petite sizes, but what can you do when you have measurements that are larger than most brand's averages? This week I will give you some helpful tips to try. Fit and comfort in your alternative hair unit should be just as important as how something looks. Sometimes women aren't aware that they cou…

1
Overwhelmed with topper choices? Is a topper right for you? Here's my three things to consider 23:19

2M ago23:19

23:19

Toppers are usually the first options women consider with alternative hair. There's so many choices out there and videos and ads make it look so easy. The latest online statistics on topper returns quoted by Jon Renau in an email this week stated the return rate of toppers purchased online is a whopping 50%! I would bet that 50% is an underestimate…

1
Help! My favorite alternative hair got discontinued! What can I do? 18:14

3M ago18:14

18:14

As you probably already know, styles and colors get discontinued from time to time. Sometimes, without a lot of notice. But not to worry, I am going to give you my best advice as to how to navigate the changes with confidence. Then when the compliments start rolling in about your new style or color, you'll be right at home in the new look. Until ne…

1
Going to a wig shop in person? Here's my best advice for avoiding these 3 big mistakes! 15:05

4M ago15:05

15:05

Hey everyone! Happy June to you! This week I am back with an episode that was inspired by the client who came to the shop today, and who left with gorgeous results that she did not expect (as I always say time and time again), We discussed alternative hair journeys and what she experienced at other wig shops as well as what she's tried along the wa…

1
Have you tried a super inexpensive wig lately? I did and here's my thoughts! 11:47

6M ago11:47

11:47

Long story short, I was pleasantly surprised by quality of the haul of wigs I purchased each for 12 USD or less! I think the least expensive one was 6 USD. I tried many colors, shoulder length or longer, hats with hair attached and one with detachable hair! I will post a few of the pictures in the Wise Wig Advice and Support group on Facebook. This…

1
Part Two of "Why is shopping retail more expensive? Why aren't there more wig shops?" series! 14:38

6M ago14:38

14:38

Hey there! Part Two I start to explain a little more about the pricing structure and how they are suggested from the manufacturer of the alternative hair for retail and internet suggested pricing plus what to reasonably expect from an authorized dealer. Thanks for listening! Peace, Love and Alternative Hair, Debra Heim…

1
Why is shopping retail more expensive than an internet outlet? First in a four part series of the pros and cons of each!! 17:11

6M ago17:11

17:11

Hey there! This is the first in a multi part series where I am going to talk about alternative hair shopping in a boutique or salon versus internet. There is a price difference but there is also a RESULTS difference from going to a qualified alternative hair consultant or a hairdresser educated and up to date in alternative hair versus doing it you…

1
Feeling guilty about spending on your alternative hair? Three reasons why you shouldn't! 15:47

7M ago15:47

15:47

One thing I see in common with all women, no matter how much money they earn, there is the tendency to feel guilty about what they spend on their hair. Here's the reasons why you should allow yourself to feel good and how to reframe your thinking about it. Peace, Love and Alternative Hair, Debra Heim…

1
Shopping pre-owned synthetics--four things you want to check that don't show in the photos! 12:51

7M ago12:51

12:51

There's so many places to get a good deal on alternative hair that someone else purchased that didn't work for them.....if you know what to check for! First and foremost you want to trust the seller, do your due diligence on that. But here are a few questions you might want to ask because things like care products or perfumes used by the person sel…

1
What will it take to end the stigma for alternative hair wearers? These two things need to stop! 15:32

7M ago15:32

15:32

Back in 2017, practically nobody was using the term "alternative hair' for wigs and toppers. I deliberately chose that term to help change the perception of "wig" to become more acceptable. Words have power, and it worked to an extent! But, I got tired of explaining the term as I meant it: alternative hair is just that....an ALTERNATIVE to hair you…

1
What to realistically expect out of your alternative hair and four steps to remember if disappointment happens! 17:25

8M ago17:25

17:25

There's a lot of different variables in your choices of wigs and toppers out there to consider when choosing your next wig or topper. You want a certain style, but maybe it parts on the opposite side. You want a certain color, but there isn't your favorite color choice in that style. It usually happens like this: you have this picture in your head …

1
How long does a wig last? Find out the four factors to consider to extend the life of your alternative hair! 14:51

8M ago14:51

14:51

One of the most common questions I get is "how long does a wig (topper) last?". That's such an individual thing to answer😊 To me, there are four factors to consider that will help you understand how to estimate how long you will get from any wig. Also, the fifth factor to consider when estimating the life span of your alternative hair is experience…

1
Grief and hair loss? The three mindset shifts you'll want to make to get past that! 13:56

9M ago13:56

13:56

It's true, there is a grief associated with lots of things, and hair loss is one of those. In coming to terms with hair loss or an alopecia diagnosis ( or ANY diagnosis for that matter), you can expect to go through phases of anger, denial, bargaining, depression and acceptance in no particular order. So the healthy thing to do is to acknowledge yo…

1
Do you second guess yourself? Find out what is behind it and listen for tips on how to keep that to a minimum! 12:42

10M ago12:42

12:42

One of the things I see often is someone having a difficult time making a decision between two favorites. Find out why second guessing happens and why you ultimately can't make a wrong decision. First of all, you learn from each time you try. Second, no choice is permanent, there will always be another style for you. Remember, it's a journey to fin…

1
What if someone doesn’t like your new look? Three reasons why someone may have a less than favorable reaction and what to say! 13:53

10M ago13:53

13:53

Change is not easy for everyone. Ideally we all want everyone to absolutely love our new look and the truth is, someone may say something that hurts your feelings. Sometimes boyfriends, family, friends and the people closest to you will need some time as well to get used to the change and might say "I don't know' or "it looks different" and take it…

1
Wait! I’m not ready! When alopecia is going on with a family member, here’s how the fears will show up. 16:55

11M ago16:55

16:55

Hello! This week's episode is based on fear a loved one may have with taking action on their own hair loss situation. Every year around holiday time like it is here in the USA, I will get a flurry of calls from daughters of moms and moms of daughters that have hair loss wanting to make an appointment for them. I explain the fears running the show b…

1
Thinking about or wishing for bangs? Check out clip on bangs and why wig colors can look different even in the same color! 13:50

11M ago13:50

13:50

One thing I wanted to discuss this week was that you can have two of the same wig in the same color and although overall the same, there will be individual differences piece to piece. Also, did you know about clip on bangs? Milano, Jon Renau and HairDo all make versions. You can try bangs without the committment! Peace, Love, and Alternative Hair, …

1
Is your wig or topper starting to show wear and tear ? Try these clever hacks! 13:12

11M ago13:12

13:12

It's a sad, sad day anytime your new wig or topper starts to show wear. But, just like shoes, alternative hair will wear out with use. I have come up with some pretty clever hair styles just based on trying to hide something on a wig that didn't look 100% fresh and here are some hacks for hiding the wear. Thanks for listening.... Peace, Love and Al…

1
Is your alternative hair wig or topper beginning to show it’s age? Try these clever wig hacks to hide wear and tear! 13:12

11M ago13:12

13:12

It's a sad, sad day anytime your new wig or topper starts to show wear. But, just like shoes, alternative hair will wear out with use. I have come up with some pretty clever hair styles just based on trying to hide something on a wig that didn't look 100% fresh and here are some hacks for hiding the wear. Thanks for listening.... Peace, Love and Al…

1
Can I wear wigs if I still have hair? 10:35

12M ago10:35

10:35

This week I would like to address something that I pick up on from women who call the shop that want to come in and see about natural looking alternative hair but feel that because they have their own hair, they might be not allowed to come to the shop. It's something I never thought about until I noticed that many women seem to feel a sense of gui…

1
Men’s alternative hair, what you need to know that may help you! 10:29

12M ago10:29

10:29

If we are going to talk alternative hair, we would be remiss to overlook men and their choices! Did you know that there are men's full wigs in addition to top pieces? The selection of the styles in the heat friendly synthetic fiber has doubled in choice since I opened the shop! The thing that may be of interest to you is that the men's cap on the a…

1
When friends aren’t so friendly with their opinions on your hair....reply with these things to say! 12:48

12M ago12:48

12:48

When you are an empath (deeply sensitive, loyal, giving) some times 'friends' won't respect your boundaries. Sometimes too, their opinion on whether you look good or not isn't entirely accurate. Find out why this week as I discuss how insecurities can affect what someone says to you when you ask them for an opinion on your hair or clothes...plus be…

1
The wrong reasons to buy a wig or topper and tips on saying NO gracefully to high pressure tactics! 16:05

1y ago16:05

16:05

I see in my shop people coming in with something that doesn't work for them simply because they were embarrassed to say 'no' or the sales tactics unscrupulous. Often people buy things that they don't want just to avoid saying "no". Here are some tips to spot manipulative sales tactics and a few responses to be prepared with to empower you to say "N…

1
Don’t get caught up in overthinking that wig or topper! 6 things I see that cause worry and how to deal with fearful thoughts! 16:29

1y ago16:29

16:29

In my five years of having the shop, I see firsthand how beautiful, intelligent women get caught up in these five areas with overthinking things that really don't matter in the long run. As someone who wears alternative hair and an overthinking "worrier' myself but also a confidence coach, here's some tips on how to not overthink it and just wear t…

1
Is your information source reliable? Reviewing a do’s and don’ts list I found online! 15:04

1y ago15:04

15:04

This week, I found an online article that someone wrote with do's and don'ts for wig wearing. I go over the article with my thoughts, and while everyone has different experiences and opinions and I respect that, I can tell from the article that this woman may not have had a wig on that fits her head correctly. This is not by any means an insult! I …

1
The real reasons your friends and family don’t like your wig or topper--it’s not what you think! 14:37

1y ago14:37

14:37

Hi everyone! This week I had the chance to observe a woman who was clearly jealous of someone else's alternative hair! At the bottom of it (IMO) a resentment of the fact that someone else could have hair that looked as good as hers that wasn't "homegrown'. I give the details on this and also describe a few other reactions that friends and family ha…

1
Ever wonder why the wig looks so different on than it does in the picture? Here’s a few reasons! 14:25

1y ago14:25

14:25

After five years of helping over two thousand people in person, I can tell you a few of the reasons why the wig or hairpiece can look so different on your head. Plus, my theories s why the wig always looks 'better' on someone else. (Spoiler alert: it really doesn't, you just think it does). Drop by www.debraheim.com and sign up for my email list an…

1
To shave or not to shave? Does a shaved head help wigs fit better? What else should I consider? 14:52

1y ago14:52

14:52

This week the pros and cons of shaving heads for wig wearing and some iconic examples of women characters with shaved heads is discussed. The number one pro: Confidence! Peace, Love, and Alternative Hair, Debra HeimBy Debra Heim - Certified Wig and Topper Specialist, Alternative Hair Boutique Owner

1
How stress affects hair and ten at home things you can do about it! 15:34

1y ago15:34

15:34

This week I discuss stress related hair loss (telegen effluvium) and how stress can affect hair growth in general. As always, remember to consult your physician about your hair loss and regularly, but here are ten things you can do at home reported to help hair growth and strength. Balanced diet, mindfulness/meditation, exercise and plenty of water…

1
Scam wig sellers! What are the signs that a site might not be legit? 17:18

1y ago17:18

17:18

This past week, someone brought to my attention a website that had "Debra" as part of the name and asked if it was a new line for me. The site had pictures that were stolen from famous influencers and reputable websites. By stealing pictures and using similar look alike names and fake reviews, that is just a few of the tactics that these scam artis…

1
Am I being authentic if I wear a wig or topper? Debunking authenticity myths in alternative hair! 11:21

1y ago11:21

11:21

Being true to yourself is what authenticity is about! It doesn't mean your physical appearance, it doesn't mean you can only have hair that you grew yourself.....let's talk about what authenticity means and why you aren't being 'fake' if you embrace alternative hair! Peace, love, and alternative hair!! Debra The ORIGINAL alternative hair alchemist …

1
Answers to the most FAQ questions about alternative hair, wigs and toppers! Part 3! 14:41

1y ago14:41

14:41

This week we wrap up the last five of the top twenty searched questions by wearers of wigs and toppers. How to I properly clean and care for my wig? What is the difference between a lace front and a full lace wig? How long does a wig typically last with regular use? Can a wear a wig while swimming or exercising? Are there any specific tips for wear…

1
FAQ answers to the most commonly asked wig and topper questions, Part Two!! 16:51

1y ago16:51

16:51

Here is the continuation of last week's episode covering the most commonly asked questions to Google (and myself) concerning alternative hair. I cover the next five and next week we will wrap it up. The thing to remember is for every question, there is an answer and for every problem there is a solution! Looking back over the show's episodes I have…

1
The top twenty searched for FAQs about alternative hair answered! Part One 16:32

1+ y ago16:32

16:32

This week in the first of a two part series, I will answer the questions most frequently searched on the internet about wigs. The difference between me and the internet is I am going to give you answers based not only on my experience but also from the view of someone that has helped 1800 clients in person and counting! Also, find out about how you…

1
How about alternative hair for your business videos or workplace! Here’s my tips! 12:10

1+ y ago12:10

12:10

Alternative hair is a great way to look salon fresh in minutes, or to change your look completely for a photo shoot or mood. Slept in and have to do a Zoom in ten minutes? No problem, hair can be ready to go! Wigs and hairpieces have been used by celebs for years! The difference is they have someone who knows alternative hair to do it for them. Lis…

1
What will someone say if they know I am wearing a wig? Here’s my experience! 13:29

1+ y ago13:29

13:29

If you are worried that someone "will know" you are wearing a wig or hairpiece, fear not! If you do it right, nobody has to know unless you tell them. But here's a recap of the reactions you may get if you decide to tell someone that your hair is yours, but you didn't grow it! www.debraheim.com www.verybestlittlehairhouse.com…

1
How do I know when it’s time for a new wig or topper? Here’s what to look for! 12:48

1+ y ago12:48

12:48

The time to replace your alternative hair is mainly up to you! My best advice is don't wait until the last minute! But here are the key things that I see that show wear in your alternative hair, and most importantly, don't feel guilty about self care! Plus, a big surprise....a new shop opening in the USA!…

1
Cap Construction in detail: The 5 advantages of a hand-tied wig! 12:04

1+ y ago12:04

12:04

Hand tied wigs take on the average, 40 hours to produce each, where wefted wigs take about 8 hours each according to one of the major manufacturers my shop carries. But allow yourself to try a good one if you have the chance, here are the five advantages you will find. Thank you for listening and as always, Peace, Love and Alternative Hair! Debra H…

1
What do I need to look for when shopping used wigs and toppers? 17:54

1+ y ago17:54

17:54

Sometimes you can get a really great deal on buying a wig or topper that simply didn't work for someone else. It's a great way to snag a bargain, if you know what to look for and most of all, trust the seller!By Debra Heim - Certified Wig and Topper Specialist, Alternative Hair Boutique Owner

1
Why do we fall for wig scams? Here’s some of the tactics scammers use! 14:25

1+ y ago14:25

14:25

Alternative hair scams are out there in full force! Here are some of the tactics scammers use to fool and manipulate you. www.verybestlittlehairhouse.com www.debraheim.comBy Debra Heim - Certified Wig and Topper Specialist, Alternative Hair Boutique Owner

1
What is the difference between a mono top and a mono part? Classic cap and lace front? 17:53

1+ y ago17:53

17:53

This week I will break down the differences in cap designs and what that means for you. Also there will be a short video to go along with this episode posted on YouTube and also in the Wise Wig Advice and Support Group that can be found on Very Best Little Hairhouse's Facebook page to show you the differences along with the explanation. www.verybes…

1
What skin tones and what hair tones work well together? Here’s how to decipher the mystery! 14:20

1+ y ago14:20

14:20

This week I will give you the guidelines on how to determine if you are cool, warm, or neutral as far as skin tones and what hair colors are flattering to them. Here's the thing, though: rules were made to be broken as far as I am concerned and I say the real test is to try it in person to tell for sure! I'm a very visual person as far as that goes…

1
Do I have to tell people it’s a wig if they ask? Here’s the five type of reactions you can expect if you do! 17:11

1+ y ago17:11

17:11

One of the biggest concerns alternative hair wearers can have is that someone will "know" they have a wig or topper on and will ask the dreaded "Is that a wig?" Here's the different types of responses I've experienced when I choose to reveal that "Yes, it is indeed a wig!". The good news is that if you do alternative hair right, you won't ever be a…

1
8 advantages of synthetic alternative hair! 15:24

1+ y ago15:24

15:24

If you are afraid of looking 'fake' in a synthetic, let me tell you that those days are over! Here's my top reasons why synthetic is the way to go for the most part, especially if you are in the experimentation phase of alternative hair styles and colors.By Debra Heim - Certified Wig and Topper Specialist, Alternative Hair Boutique Owner

1
What wig style should I wear with my face shape? Let’s talk styles! 12:04

1+ y ago12:04

12:04

Whether you have a round, square, heart shape, diamond or classic shaped face, there is a style that is recommended for you, and I am going to run through them. Spoiler alert: a longer side swept bang is flattering to all faces (according to the hair style experts). But rules are made to be broken and I have seen all kinds of different styles work …

1
Why are we still afraid of wigs? Let’s look at limiting beliefs! 15:27

1+ y ago15:27

15:27

Even to this day, I find there are women who are terrified at the thought of someone finding out or knowing they are wearing a wig or topper. Why is that? Because most people have pretty significant memories of a bad wig or toupee. There's no need for that anymore, the alternative hair out there now is amazing! Here's some of my thoughts and observ…

1
Why is changing colors or styles so hard for me? My 5 step process to help make it easy! 14:13

1+ y ago14:13

14:13

Changing your color or style is always an adjustment and there is a phase where it might seem like a huge mistake.......but it's not! It's just part of the process. Here's my process to adapt to new colors and styles.By Debra Heim - Certified Wig and Topper Specialist, Alternative Hair Boutique Owner

1
From Hair Loss to wig or topper: 5 things to consider! 14:17

1+ y ago14:17

14:17

Choosing a first wig or topper? Consider these 5 tips.By Debra Heim - Certified Wig and Topper Specialist, Alternative Hair Boutique Owner

1
3 things to consider to reduce feeling the summer heat in alternative hair 13:20

1+ y ago13:20

13:20

It's warming up in my part of the US and I often get asked if I have or know of any wigs or hairpieces that are "good for summer", meaning less 'hot' than others. You can look at these three things when choosing your hair to help you decide if it might be cooler than another. I'm sure there are wigs being sold as "summer" or "hot weather" wigs but …

1
Are you overpaying for these 3 features in a wig or topper? 13:43

1+ y ago13:43

13:43

Not everything you may hear or read on the internet is accurate for everyone. Often people think a wig is going to look 'more natural' if it is human hair, if it has a lace front, or if it is hand-tied. This should help you understand that not all wigs or toppers are bad just because they aren't human hair or are classic construction. www.verybestl…

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