Heads Together with Michael Van Clarke

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

Season Finale: Sophia Loren, Margaritas and Tight Leather Trousers.

In this episode, Nicky Clarke and Michael Van Clarke swap stories of leather trousers, Harleys, Savile Row suits, and why Nicky once introduced Dress Up Friday in his salon. From Penélope Cruz answering the door in a towel to a mistaken invitation for Michael to dance at Sadler’s Wells, the brothers trace how style, image, and identity shaped their careers both inside and outside the salon. They also share the story behind Michael adopting “Van” into his name, reflect on their family’s Greek heritage, and laugh about the moments when fashion, personality, and hairdressing collided in unexpected ways. Follow Michael Van Clarke: @mvanclarke [https://www.instagram.com/mvanclarke/] Follow Nicky Clarke: @nickyclarkepersonal [https://www.instagram.com/nickyclarkepersonal/] 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

The Mayfair Years: Life at John Frieda’s First Salon

In this episode, Nicky Clarke and Michael Van Clarke take a trip back to the salon floor of the 70s and 80s, when hairdressing was brimming with glamour, creativity, and spontaneity. From John Frieda’s Mayfair townhouse buzzing with celebrities to test shoots that ended up as front covers, they recall a time when saying yes opened doors to extraordinary opportunities. The pair also explore how the salon has always been more than just a place to cut hair, it’s theatre, it’s community, and it’s about how clients feel as much as how they look. They share why personality matters as much as technical skill, how ambiance can transform a visit into an event, and why salons that embrace warmth, performance, and a sense of occasion keep clients coming back for decades. Follow Michael Van Clarke: @mvanclarke [https://www.instagram.com/mvanclarke/] Follow Nicky Clarke: @nickyclarkepersonal [https://www.instagram.com/nickyclarkepersonal/] 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