Jayne Lewis Orr: Leadership, Legacy & Letting Go

Simon Bryer: When Clients Smoked in the Salon. Hairdressing Then vs Now

In this episode of Heads Together, Michael Van Clarke sits down with veteran hairdresser Simon Bryer to explore a career that has spanned nearly five decades in the hair industry. Simon shares how he rebelled against expectations to become a hairdresser in the late 1970s, the reality behind the industry's glamorous reputation, and his journey from apprentice in the North of England to international educator, creative director and global ambassador. Together they reflect on the golden era of hairdressing, travelling the world for stage shows and education, working with major brands, and the dramatic changes the industry has seen over the years. From unforgettable stories in Beirut and Japan to salon life when clients smoked in the chair, this episode offers a fascinating look at a very different era of hairdressing. Follow Michael Van Clarke: @michaelvanclarke [https://www.instagram.com/michaelvanclarke] Follow Simon Bryer: @mvc_hairbysimonbryer [https://www.instagram.com/mvc_hairbysimonbryer/?hl=en] CREDITS Producer: Ben Lifton [https://www.instagram.com/benlifton/?hl=en] Editor: Big Little Content [https://www.instagram.com/biglittlecontent/?hl=en] Sound Engineer: TYX Studios

Toby Dicker: How to Build a Salon That Lasts

In this episode of Heads Together, host Michael Van Clarke welcomes back Toby Dicker, co founder of Chapel Salons and founder of the Save Our Salons campaign. Toby returns for a candid conversation about leadership, salon growth, industry advocacy and the realities of running a modern salon business. From developing future leaders and building strong teams to challenging government policy and fighting for a fairer future for salon owners, Toby shares the lessons he's learned from nearly three decades in the industry. The conversation also explores the origins of the Save Our Salons movement, the challenges facing employers, the importance of apprenticeships, and why Toby believes hairdressing offers far greater opportunities than many people realise. Alongside the business discussion, Toby opens up about personal growth, family life, health, and the mindset shifts that have shaped both his career and his outlook on life. An honest and thought provoking episode about resilience, leadership, purpose and the future of British hairdressing. Follow Michael Van Clarke: @michaelvanclarke [https://www.instagram.com/michaelvanclarke] Follow Toby Dicker: @tobyjasperdicker [https://www.instagram.com/tobyjasperdicker] CREDITS Producer: Ben Lifton [https://www.instagram.com/benlifton/?hl=en] Editor: Big Little Content [https://www.instagram.com/biglittlecontent/?hl=en] Sound Engineer: TYX Studios

Jayne Lewis Orr: The Future of Hairdressing, Business and Talent

In this episode of Heads Together, hosted by Michael Van Clarke, we welcome back Jayne Lewis Orr for a fascinating conversation about her extraordinary career in hairdressing. From her early days in beauty publishing to becoming the driving force behind the British Hairdressing Awards for nearly three decades, Jayne shares the stories, challenges and unforgettable moments that helped shape one of the industry's most celebrated events. Together, Michael and Jayne discuss the people working behind the scenes who keep the hairdressing industry moving forward, the balance between creativity and business, and why passion remains the key ingredient for long term success. Whether you're a salon owner, stylist or simply passionate about the industry, this episode offers a unique perspective from one of hairdressing's most respected figures. Follow Michael Van Clarke: @michaelvanclarke [https://www.instagram.com/michaelvanclarke] Follow Jayne Lewis Orr: @jaynelewisoor [https://www.instagram.com/jaynelewisorr/?hl=en] CREDITS Producer: Ben Lifton [https://www.instagram.com/benlifton/?hl=en] Editor: Big Little Content [https://www.instagram.com/biglittlecontent/?hl=en] Sound Engineer: TYX Studios

Toby Dicker: Are Salons Being Taxed Out of Existence?

In this episode of Heads Together, host Michael Van Clarke sits down with Toby Dicker, co founder of Chapel Salons [https://www.thechapel.co.uk/] and one of the hair industry's most outspoken advocates. From building a five salon business over nearly three decades to leading national conversations around taxation, apprenticeships and the future of the high street, Toby shares his candid views on the challenges facing salon owners today. Together, Michael and Toby explore why hairdressers remain undervalued, the impact of government policy on the industry, the realities of growing a successful salon business, and what the perfect salon of the future could look like. This is a thought provoking conversation about leadership, business, community and why human connection remains the greatest asset hairdressing has to offer. Follow Michael Van Clarke: @michaelvanclarke [https://www.instagram.com/michaelvanclarke] Follow Toby Dicker: @tobyjasperdicker [https://www.instagram.com/tobyjasperdicker] CREDITS Producer: Ben Lifton [https://www.instagram.com/benlifton/?hl=en] Editor: Big Little Content [https://www.instagram.com/biglittlecontent/?hl=en] Sound Engineer: TYX Studios

Jayne Lewis Orr: Leadership, Legacy & Letting Go

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 [https://www.instagram.com/michaelvanclarke] Follow Jayne Lewis Orr: @jaynelewisoor [https://www.instagram.com/jaynelewisorr/?hl=en] CREDITS Producer: Ben Lifton [https://www.instagram.com/benlifton/?hl=en] Editor: Big Little Content [https://www.instagram.com/biglittlecontent/?hl=en] Sound Engineer: TYX Studios