In this episode, Michael Van Clarke and Nicky Clarke revisit the highs, controversies, and changing culture of the British Hairdressing Awards.

They explore the rise of digital retouching, the spiralling costs of competition (tens of thousands for just four pictures), and why at times, simply being nominated felt like enough.

From behind-the-scenes stories of shoots, to debates about what judges really value, to the contrast between creative image awards and business accolades, they reveal what the pursuit of recognition has meant for their careers, and why both eventually stepped back.

Follow Michael Van Clarke: @mvanclarke

Follow Nicky Clarke: @nickyclarkepersonal

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

In this episode, Michael Van Clarke and Nicky Clarke revisit the turbulent mid-1980s. A time of creative breakthroughs, tense negotiations, and bold decisions.

They discuss the rise of salon product innovation, from the accidental birth of “green lotion” to reworking American waxes for European hair, and the beginnings of the silicon revolution in haircare. Alongside stories of contracts and turning down impossible deals, Michael shares the story of walking away from stagnation, finding an unloved Marylebone backstreet building, and through some complicated property manoeuvres securing the whole thing as his own.

With stories of odd tenants, financial juggling, and the unexpected help of his foreman father, this is an honest look at the reality of leaving the safety of a thriving career to create something new, without quite knowing what you’re walking into.

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

In this episode, Michael Van Clarke is joined once again by principal stylist Mitchell Scott for a frank conversation about generational attitudes in hairdressing.

From the stereotype of Gen Z being “too flaky” or “too entitled” to the realities of training, recruitment, and running a salon, they explore what it really takes to find, and keep, great people. They discuss the role of upbringing, the importance of structure and discipline, and why being “too nice” as a leader can backfire.

With honest reflections on the challenges of mentoring, they reveal the attitudes and behaviours that separate those who thrive in the industry from those who fall away – and why pushing people beyond their comfort zone can unlock their true potential.

Follow Michael Van Clarke: @mvanclarke

Follow Mitchell Scott: @mvc_mitchelltscott

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