Episode Details

Winn Claybaugh always knew he was different. Growing up as one of eight kids, he carried a quiet sense of responsibility and a deep belief that he was meant to lead. But his journey wasn’t perfect. From early struggles and bad decisions to eventually overcoming addiction, Winn had to discover who he truly was before stepping into the leader he is today. That journey led him to build one of the most respected cultures in business through Paul Mitchell Schools, where success isn’t just about skill, but about character, contribution, and kindness. In this episode, Winn joins Tim to share powerful insights on leadership, culture, personal growth, and why being “nice” is actually a strategic advantage in life and business.

Winn Claybaugh is a speaker, author, and co-owner of Paul Mitchell Schools, one of the largest cosmetology education systems in the world. He is also the host of the long-running Masters by Winn Claybaugh podcast and author of Be Nice Or Else. 

In this episode, Tim and Winn discuss:

(00:00) Introduction

(02:21) Growing Up One of Eight Kids

(04:53) Finding His Voice and Identity

(08:48) Early Struggles and Turning Points

(10:46) How His 1990 New Year's Plans Changed Everything

(13:00) The Problem With “I’ll Believe It When I See It”

(18:14) Creating a Culture That Wins

(20:44) Why Culture Matters More Than Skill

(26:43) The Power of Contribution and Giving Back

(30:57) Overcoming Addiction and Building Character

(32:26) Advice for Listeners Between 40-60 Years Old

(41:23) The Tragedy of Today’s Polarization

(45:08) Leading With Love By Being Present

Winn Claybaugh is a speaker, author, and co-owner of Paul Mitchell Schools, one of the largest cosmetology education systems in the world. As Dean of Paul Mitchell Advanced Education, he has helped shape the careers of thousands of professionals while building a culture centered on kindness, contribution, and servant leadership. He is also the host of the long-running Masters by Winn Claybaugh podcast and author of Be Nice Or Else.

Resources Mentioned:

Winn’s Book, Be Nice or Else: And What's in It for You: https://www.amazon.com/Be-Nice-Else-Whats-You/dp/0974993999

Paul Mitchell Schools: https://paulmitchell.edu

Connect with Winn:

Website: https://www.winnclaybaugh.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/winnclaybaugh

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/winnclaybaugh

Connect with Tim:

Website: https://www.timstorey.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/realtimstorey/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MiracleMentalitywithTimStorey

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/timstoreyofficial

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Motivation, Self Help, Mindset, Faith, Purpose, Resilience, Mental Health, Healing, Transformation, Inspiration, Growth, Leadership, Culture, Kindness, Comeback, Spirituality, Personal Development, Breakthrough, Overcoming,