For today’s takeover episode, our month-long residency guest host Nancy Stripe sits down with the visionary Catherine Handcock OBE, a pioneering British publisher and leading advocate for the UK hair and beauty sector. As the founder of Creative HEAD and a director of the British Beauty Council, Catherine has spent decades championing professional excellence, building prestigious awards platforms, and lobbying for vital industry recognition.

Nancy and Catherine discuss the evolution of hairdressing as a vibrant, interconnected community and the power of storytelling through media. Catherine pulls back the curtain on how she successfully bridged the gap between salon life and the wider professional world, helping to set new standards for the entire industry.

They also explore the importance of recognising emerging talent and the necessity of giving a voice to those challenging the status quo. Discover why Catherine believes in innovation over tradition and why a commitment to unique vision is the ultimate tool for long-term success.

Tune in for an insightful conversation on entrepreneurship, the impact of professional advocacy, and how to build a legacy that changes an industry for the better. Whether you are seeking professional inspiration or strategic guidance, this episode offers a roadmap for leading with both passion and true purpose.

 

 

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RESOURCES

Today’s Guest

Catherine Handcock OBE is a prominent British publisher, entrepreneur, and leading advocate for the UK hair and beauty industry. In June 2000, she founded Creative HEAD, the leading business-to-business media brand for professional hairdressers, launching renowned national events like the Most Wanted and It List awards. As a founding director of the British Beauty Council, she actively lobbies government for sector recognition. In June 2026, she was awarded an OBE for her services to hairdressing and entrepreneurship.

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