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
Episode Title: Rivalry, Leather Trousers and £5,000 haircuts.
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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