Key Points:
- Journey from Navy to HR Leadership and Entrepreneurship
Emileigh Slaughter transitioned from serving in the Navy to excelling in human resources and becoming an entrepreneur. She attributes her military experience to helping her develop resilience, adaptability, and a passion for creating positive workplace cultures. Her entrepreneurial endeavor, Blossom Salon Suites, is built on empowering others to achieve their goals while fostering a supportive community. - The Importance of Workplace Culture
A significant theme throughout Emileigh’s HR career and entrepreneurial journey is her dedication to creating a thriving workplace culture. Whether it’s employee recognition in staffing companies or fostering a community of growth and support in Blossom Salon Suites, Emileigh emphasizes the value of meaningful connections, appreciation, and shared goals. - Entrepreneurship as a Path to Freedom and Growth
Blossom Salon Suites was born out of Emileigh’s belief in entrepreneurship as a means of gaining personal freedom and fostering growth. The concept provides beauty professionals with a stepping stone to entrepreneurship by offering flexible, low-risk options to manage their businesses. Emileigh views her success not only in her business’s growth but in helping others achieve their goals and full potential.
Transcript:
Sean Ofeldt: Welcome to the show. I’m Sean Ofeldt, your host and CEO of Transition Overwatch. Today, I have the pleasure of speaking with Emileigh Slaughter, who is an HR specialist with Tennessee Oncology, the CEO of Blossom Salon Suites, and a Navy veteran. Welcome to the show, Emileigh.
Emileigh Slaughter: Thank you so much for having me. It’s a pleasure to be here.
Sean Ofeldt: Well, Emileigh, I always love when we’re talking with veterans who are on the show. I always love starting with your journey and what that looked like from service to where you’re at today. So if you could just give us an overview of what that journey looked like, and we’ll go from there.
Emileigh Slaughter: Yeah, absolutely. So I began my Navy journey when I was 21. Initially, when I got out of high school, I wanted to go to college. I played soccer for the University of Tennessee in Chattanooga. After two years of playing with them, I actually had two knee surgeries. So I was like, you know, my grades kind of fell off. I was working three jobs. I just needed some level of stability and really didn’t know where I wanted to go coming out of high school.
I changed my major three different times within two years. I was just pouring money into the college system and had no clue what I wanted to do. My grandfather retired from the Marines, and my sister was in the Army, so I thought, “Okay, there’s some stability there.” My sister pushed me toward the Navy. I joined, not thinking it would be the best decision of my life, but it absolutely turned out to be just that.
I’m a huge advocate for the military. I did four years and had two more knee surgeries. I medically separated after deciding that if I couldn’t go on deployment, I didn’t want to stay on land. During my service, I got my degree in applied behavioral science. At first, I thought I wanted to work in the foster care system, but I quickly realized emotionally, it wasn’t for me.
That’s when I transitioned into human resources. I started as an assistant at a staffing company, progressed quickly into management roles, and now I’m an HR specialist. That’s my professional journey in HR.
Sean Ofeldt: That’s phenomenal. So, Marine Corps, Army, and Navy—that’s pretty awesome. I’m sure family gatherings are fun.
Emileigh Slaughter: Absolutely. Every time.
Sean Ofeldt: What was it about HR? Was there a connection to your schooling or military experience, or did you just find your place there?
Emileigh Slaughter: My biggest desire was to take care of America’s greatest asset: its employees. I wanted to create a culture that made people want to come to work. Most people leave jobs because of culture or management, and I wanted to bridge those gaps.
That’s also what drew me to Blossom Salon Suites. I get to directly affect the culture of my business while supporting the growth of other entrepreneurs.
Sean Ofeldt: That’s excellent. Speaking of Blossom Salon Suites, can you tell us about it and how it works?
Emileigh Slaughter: Absolutely. The salon suite concept has grown since COVID. Unlike traditional salons, where stylists work on commission, the suite model allows professionals to set their own rates and keep 100% of their earnings. It’s about giving entrepreneurs a space to dip their toes into running a business without taking on the full financial burden of a commercial lease.
By absorbing much of that liability, I give them the opportunity to focus on their craft and grow. Blossom is all about creating a community where entrepreneurs can thrive and support one another.
Sean Ofeldt: That’s incredible. So what’s next for Blossom?
Emileigh Slaughter: I’m fully booked now, which is exciting. I’m planning a welcome dinner where we’ll bring in a tax professional and encourage networking among our suite owners. My goal is to see these entrepreneurs grow, achieve their goals, and even move on to start their own salon suites if that’s their dream.
Sean Ofeldt: That’s fantastic. Thank you so much for sharing your story, Emileigh. Blossom Salon Suites is an inspiring concept, and I’m excited to see where it goes.
Emileigh Slaughter: Thank you so much. I appreciate you having me on the show.
Sean Ofeldt: Absolutely. Have a great day!
Emileigh Slaughter: You too!
