Heads Together with Michael Van Clarke
Welcome to Heads Together, the podcast hosted by renowned hairdresser and entrepreneur Michael Van Clarke.
In Series One, Michael sits down with his brother, the legendary Nicky Clarke, for a candid and often hilarious journey through their extraordinary careers. Together, they share untold stories from decades at the forefront of British hairdressing, reflecting on fame, family, business, creativity and the moments that shaped two of the industry's most recognisable names.
In Series Two, Michael takes the conversation even further, welcoming the leaders, innovators and influential voices who have helped shape the modern hair industry. From award winning hairdressers and salon owners to educators, campaigners, entrepreneurs and industry icons, each episode explores the stories, challenges and lessons behind some of the biggest names in hairdressing.
Whether you're a hairdresser, salon owner, aspiring entrepreneur or simply fascinated by the people behind the profession, Heads Together offers inspiration, wisdom and stories you won't hear anywhere else.
Heads Together with Michael Van Clarke
The Hard Truth About Starting a Business with Mitchell Scott
Use Left/Right to seek, Home/End to jump to start or end. Hold shift to jump forward or backward.
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