Award-winning hairdresser, educator and salon owner Ken Picton joins Michael Van Clarke to share the remarkable story behind building one of the UK's most respected salon businesses. From discovering hairdressing as a teenager after a life-changing first haircut, to opening his own salon at just 21 using an unconventional funding strategy, Ken reflects on the ambition, determination and calculated risks that shaped his career.

He opens up about the realities of growing a business through recession, overcoming financial pressure, managing rapid expansion, leading large teams and navigating unexpected challenges, including staffing shortages, maternity leave, Covid and the ever-changing landscape of the hairdressing industry. Along the way, he shares the lessons he learned through international education, award-winning work, leadership and innovation, while discussing why investing in people remains at the heart of long-term success.

This inspiring conversation explores entrepreneurship, resilience, creativity and the future of professional hairdressing, making it an essential listen for salon owners, aspiring hairdressers and anyone building a business with a long-term vision.

Follow Michael Van Clarke: @michaelvanclarke

Follow Michael Douglas: @kenpicton

CREDITS

Producer: Ben Lifton

Editor: Big Little Content

Sound Engineer: TYX Studios