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

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, 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

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 welcomes back Mitchell Scott to explore the unique LLP partnership model that underpins the salon’s success.

They discuss why hairdressing should be treated like other professions — law, medicine, architecture, and how the LLP structure gives stylists a genuine sense of ownership without the risks of traditional business models. From sharing profits and responsibilities, to building a culture where every client feels like everyone’s client, the system has created stability, loyalty, and a family-like team that stands apart from the industry norm.

The conversation also touches on the challenges of apprenticeships, the undervaluing of hairdressing compared to other skilled professions, and why clients are willing to pay more — if they receive true expertise and service. It’s a candid look at how partnership, professionalism, and long-term thinking can transform a salon and the industry at large.

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