Stevie

For me, barbering has always been about more than hair. It’s art, connection, self-expression, and transformation all in one. My passion for barbering started when I was young, watching my dad work in his barbershop in Pueblo, Colorado. I would sweep hair, answer phones, and sit back watching the way he interacted with people. What stood out to me most was seeing how a haircut could completely change the way someone felt about themselves. Even at a young age, I was drawn to both the creativity of the craft and the impact it had on people.

Before I ever became a professional barber, I was already cutting my brothers’ and friends’ hair whenever I had the chance. After high school, I decided to take barbering seriously and enrolled at Emily Griffith Vocational School in 2009 before officially starting my career in 2010. One of the moments that really shaped my journey happened early on when my stepfather told me about a new barbershop in Lakewood. He described the graffiti-covered walls, pool tables, arcade games, and the creative atmosphere, and I immediately felt connected to it. I ended up meeting with the owner, demonstrating my skills on a friend, and getting hired shortly after. That experience helped me realize barbering wasn’t just something I liked — it was truly my passion.

My journey hasn’t been easy. I’ve faced challenges including incarceration, trauma, homelessness, and substance use. Those experiences were difficult, but they also forced me to take a hard look at my life and commit to changing my direction. During some of the hardest times in my life, barbering became my outlet and my foundation. It gave me structure, discipline, purpose, and something positive to focus on when everything else felt unstable. Cutting hair helped me rebuild my confidence and reminded me that I could still make a positive impact on people’s lives.

Those life experiences also shaped the kind of barber I am today. I understand how important it is for people to feel comfortable, respected, and heard when they sit in my chair. I try to create an environment where anyone can come in, relax, and be themselves without judgment. Whether someone wants to talk about life or just enjoy a quiet cut, I believe barbering is about building trust and genuine connection just as much as delivering quality work.

As both an artist and a barber, I’m always focused on improving my craft. I stay current by studying new techniques, watching tutorials, learning from other barbers, and working across different hair types and styles. For me, barbering is something you never stop learning, and I take pride in continuing to push myself creatively and professionally.

Giving back is also important to me. Whenever I can, I try to use my skills to help people who may be struggling, whether that’s offering haircuts to those experiencing homelessness or simply treating people with kindness and respect when they need it most. Long term, I hope to continue growing in this industry, become even more involved in community outreach, and eventually own a shop of my own — hopefully alongside the mission-driven team at R&R Head Labs.

More than anything, I want people to know that your past does not define your future. I’ve made mistakes, but I’ve worked hard to grow, stay accountable, and build something better for myself through barbering. This craft gave me purpose when I needed it most, and I’m committed to continuing to grow both personally and professionally through it every day.