Heads Together with Michael Van Clarke – Details, episodes & analysis

Welcome to Season Two of Heads Together. Hosted by renowned hairdresser, entrepreneur and industry pioneer Michael Van Clarke.

In episode one, Jane Lewis Orr shares her journey through the hairdressing industry, the excitement and challenges of organising the British Hairdressing Awards, and her personal life balancing family, passion, and new beginnings.

Jane Lewis Orr shares her journey from editing a beauty magazine to leading the iconic British Hairdressing Awards. It’s a story filled with passion, challenges, and unforgettable moments that shaped the industry.

Running events for over 28 years, Jane reflects on the wild energy of 1700+ hairdressers celebrating their craft. The stories are legendary, from unexpected mishaps to heartfelt connections.

As she steps back, she reminds us: if you love what you do, keep going. The hairdressing world needs that passion.

Follow Michael Van Clarke: @michaelvanclarke

Follow Jayne Lewis Orr: @jaynelewisoor

CREDITS

Producer: Ben Lifton

Editor: Big Little Content

Sound Engineer: TYX Studios

In this episode, Nicky Clarke and Michael Van Clarke swap stories of leather trousers, Harleys, Savile Row suits, and why Nicky once introduced Dress Up Friday in his salon. From Penélope Cruz answering the door in a towel to a mistaken invitation for Michael to dance at Sadler’s Wells, the brothers trace how style, image, and identity shaped their careers both inside and outside the salon.

They also share the story behind Michael adopting “Van” into his name, reflect on their family’s Greek heritage, and laugh about the moments when fashion, personality, and hairdressing collided in unexpected ways.

Follow Michael Van Clarke: @mvanclarke

Follow Nicky Clarke: @nickyclarkepersonal

CREDITS

Producer: Ben Lifton

Editor: Big Little Content

Sound Engineer: TYX Studios

In this episode, Michael Van Clarke and Nicky Clarke discuss Michael’s signature diamond dry cut technique and share their thoughts on why the industry has increasingly shifted towards faster and faster haircuts. Together, they question where hairdressing is headed and whether it can revive the artistry that makes a haircut truly exceptional.

They also reflect on iconic celebrity hairstyles that defined eras. From the precision of the Purdey' and the flicky, layered 'Farah Fawcett' cuts to the more recent influence of Victoria Beckham’s blow-dry styles. Michael and Nicky 

Follow Michael Van Clarke: @mvanclarke

Follow Nicky Clarke: @nickyclarkeuk

CREDITS

Producer: Ben Lifton

Editor: Big Little Content

Sound Engineer: TYX Studios

In this candid episode of Heads Together, brothers Nicky Clarke and Michael Van Clarke dive into their real-life sibling rivalry and how it shaped their careers in British hairdressing.

They discuss creative differences, missed business opportunities, including a dream Grosvenor Square salon, and how loyalty, ambition, and family dynamics influenced their journeys.

From navigating salon life to handling property deals and learning tough business lessons, they reflect on the highs and lows of working alongside (and sometimes against) each other.

A must-listen for anyone interested in family, entrepreneurship, and the world of top-level hairdressing.

Follow Michael Van Clarke: @mvanclarke

Follow Nicky Clarke: @nickyclarkeuk

CREDITS

Producer: Ben Lifton

Editor: Big Little Content

Sound Engineer: TYX Studios

In this episode, Michael Van Clarke is joined by principal stylist and long-time collaborator Mitchell Scott for a frank and fascinating conversation. Together, they unpack the philosophy behind truly mastering hairdressing — and discuss the viral TikTok videos that sparked criticism and trolling online.

From the value of great assistants and the art of the Diamond Dry Cut, to why so many don’t understand the depth of real craft, Michael and Mitchell reflect on what sets their work apart — and why they’re happy to let the trolls talk.

Follow Michael Van Clarke: @mvanclarke

Follow Mitchell Scott: @mvc_mitchelltscott

CREDITS

Producer: Ben Lifton

Editor: Big Little Content

Sound Engineer: TYX Studios

In this very first episode, Michael Van Clarke and Nicky Clarke look back on the early years that led them into entrepreneurship, business and hairdressing. 

From strict school uniforms and family expectations to the allure of Bowie, 70s fashion, and chance opportunities, they explore the moments that sparked their creativity and set the foundation for their 50+ year long careers.

A nostalgic, honest, and inspiring conversation for anyone who loves stories of hairdressing history, self-discovery, and the golden days of London's hair scene.

Follow Michael Van Clarke: @mvanclarke

Follow Nicky Clarke: @nickyclarkeuk

Credits:

Producers: Michael Van Clarke, Louise Ortelli, Louise Oakley & Ben Lifton

Editor: Ben Lifton from Big Little Content

Production Coordinator: TYX Studios

Sound Engineer: TYX Studios

CREDITS

Producer: Ben Lifton

Editor: Big Little Content

Sound Engineer: TYX Studios

In this episode, Nicky Clarke and Michael Van Clarke take a trip back to the salon floor of the 70s and 80s, when hairdressing was brimming with glamour, creativity, and spontaneity. From John Frieda’s Mayfair townhouse buzzing with celebrities to test shoots that ended up as front covers, they recall a time when saying yes opened doors to extraordinary opportunities.

The pair also explore how the salon has always been more than just a place to cut hair, it’s theatre, it’s community, and it’s about how clients feel as much as how they look. They share why personality matters as much as technical skill, how ambiance can transform a visit into an event, and why salons that embrace warmth, performance, and a sense of occasion keep clients coming back for decades.

Follow Michael Van Clarke: @mvanclarke

Follow Nicky Clarke: @nickyclarkepersonal

CREDITS

Producer: Ben Lifton

Editor: Big Little Content

Sound Engineer: TYX Studios

In this episode, Michael Van Clarke welcomes back Mitchell Scott to explore the unique LLP partnership model that underpins the salon’s success.

They discuss why hairdressing should be treated like other professions — law, medicine, architecture, and how the LLP structure gives stylists a genuine sense of ownership without the risks of traditional business models. From sharing profits and responsibilities, to building a culture where every client feels like everyone’s client, the system has created stability, loyalty, and a family-like team that stands apart from the industry norm.

The conversation also touches on the challenges of apprenticeships, the undervaluing of hairdressing compared to other skilled professions, and why clients are willing to pay more — if they receive true expertise and service. It’s a candid look at how partnership, professionalism, and long-term thinking can transform a salon and the industry at large.

Follow Michael Van Clarke: @mvanclarke
Follow Mitchell Scott: @mvc_mitchelltscott

CREDITS

Producer: Ben Lifton

Editor: Big Little Content

Sound Engineer: TYX Studios

In this episode, Michael Van Clarke and Nicky Clarke sit down to explore the myths, tensions, and truths behind their parallel journeys through British hairdressing.

They revisit moments of supposed rivalry, from Nicky’s dramatic leap into salon ownership in the depths of recession, to Michael’s reflections on what it meant to build his own business against the backdrop of John Frieda. The pair debate the fine line between admiration and competition, the pressure of being seen as “the most expensive hairdresser,” and how a 12-week waiting list became a media sensation.

The conversation delves into their shared heritage at Leonard, the evolution of cutting methods that shaped a generation, and why both still believe the foundation they came from is the strongest in the craft. Along the way, expect candid stories of salons within salons, waiting-list hacks, Parliament debates about hairdressing, and the lessons learned from mentors, and mistakes.

Follow Michael Van Clarke: @mvanclarke

Follow Nicky Clarke: @nickyclarkepersonal

CREDITS

Producer: Ben Lifton

Editor: Big Little Content

Sound Engineer: TYX Studios

In this episode, Michael Van Clarke sits down with principal stylist Mitchell Scott to reflect on what it really takes to open and run a salon. Michael looks back at being 27 and leaving behind a successful career at John Frieda’s flagship salon to start up his own salon, without quite realising the stress and sacrifice that would shape his first decade in business.

From clashing over cancellation policies and the changing client experience of the 70s and 80s, to navigating million-pound investments, sleepless nights, and the sheer relentlessness of being a business owner, Michael and Mitchell explore the lessons learned along the way. They also debate the future of salons: franchises, partnerships, and why strong structures and engaged teams make all the difference.

Follow Michael Van Clarke: @mvanclarke
Follow Mitchell Scott: @mvc_mitchelltscott

CREDITS

Producer: Ben Lifton

Editor: Big Little Content

Sound Engineer: TYX Studios