Part 2 of our 3 part Conversation with Taz The Barber

     The last time we talk did an interview with Taz Da Barber a Positive young Barber that had the most Positive outlook on life it is almost contagious. He shares with use in this segment, he shares his thoughts on Competing in competitions and how education, and Professionalism matter in our industry.

      While interviewing Taz I asked him, had he ever competed in a competition, or is that a part of the Game he'd like to explore? If not what part of the industry would you feel fits you and your plan and this is what he had to say," No I never competed in a competition. That part never interest me, I like being apart of the education side. just helping someone learn something, showing a technique, or even helping to educate someone about the Barber and hair industry. That is my true passion which I discovered later in my career. I would love to open my own school with a shop connected just for graduating students can Build their professional portfolio and clientele so transitioning into the profession can be easier then having to go learn what to do, how to do and what not to do on your own. I believe is good to have someone help you along the way."

       For those that may not know Taz has made a transition of his own, he moved to a whole different city, state, zip code, He choose to rebuild his Brand in the state of  Dallas, TX. and that was a Huge Move from Milwaukee!!! let see what his thoughts are on the subject," To rebuild my Brand I started a Mobile grooming service which is called Distinguished Gentlemen Grooming where the motto is Prestige service with Luxury convenience! I'm bringing the great quality service to clients who enjoy not having to make the travel or wait in a shop. I offer services from haircuts, facials, color services, loc maintenance, eyebrow arching and so on." I was happy to hear he offered a 5 Star service to his clients, which is something that is not often done, though it should be, I asked Taz what made him decide on offering his clients such a Topnotch service. " That's how I feel as a Barber. To carry this tittle as a Barber means so much and there is a level and standard that was establish throughout the history which I feel is important to maintain. we are not just neighborhood celebrities,but we are professionals just like doctors and lawyers and we should carry ourselves as such."

As you can see Taz feels very strong about keep a high standard of professionalism in the industry, so I asked Taz how he felt about Barbers coming into the industry and not displaying the proper level of Professionalism that this Business calls for?

"I feel that some of that caused by a lack of education. Not saying they haven't learned anything, but the education on the history and what this profession really is about. Many come into the game with their perspective of what this craft is about, and they conduct themselves as such. But those that allow themselves to really understand what putting on that jacket really means carry themselves a little different. My belief is there are a lot of people who cut from a certain cloth that can not be duplicated. The genuine fabric of a Barber will always stand out from the rest!

How are you using Technology to Build your Barber Business

Today we are going to be talking about how to use Technology to Build your Barber Business. We will be talking about the thing you can do to have a major internet presents, which can give you the edge you need to gain new Business. It could also give you the credibility you need to gain and hold your desired clientele or demographics.  I was on a major show for the industry that talked about ways to Build your Business, and let people know who you are and what you can offer them, the BarberZoneStudio talks about how us as Barbers, might be able to step our name up, to step our game up, there are millions of billions of dollars being made every day from technology. If you are not on the net building your presents, and locking your target market in, then you may be missing the point.

We have Site that will give you the platform you need to help you build the power you need, if you take the time to build your network you never know what you could do, because there are people out there that could help you build that strong presents, that could help you to get your work out there. Not only should your have your Twitter, FB, Youtube, Blogg, and Website. But you should be active on those pages, don't just set it up and leave it, post good information, share what you know, give the people that are out there something to hold on to. if you want to build your brand then you need the net to have an online Brand presents, because if you don't take the time to build your online presents, and be active with that presents then you will be shooting yourself in the foot. People don't want to feel like they are being tricked, or that they have a machine that is posting for them, and they are talking but no one is talking back. No one likes that, it makes them feel like your not genuine and that's not good for your Brand.

So if your using Hootsuite, or Seesmic.com then make sure you check your post for comments, and build a relationship with your followers, or you friends, there is nothing like making a comment on a status and the person that posted the status never answers, you can loss your audience, and your credibility as well. We have so many online tools to use and push us forward, but it is up to use to take the time to learn how to use them

An interview with the most Positive Barber that I know Taz Tha’Barber

Today we have an interview with a Barber like none other, this Barber shares his passion for the industry is strong, his love for information, and education is something that we all should desire to have. Taz Tha’Barber is one that knows the value of education, and how far it could take you in the Barber industry, and today he Shares some of his thoughts and feelings with us so seat back and enjoy, I hope that you might learn or understand more about  Taz and the Game when we are done…..
I asked Taz What made him want to become a Barber and this is what his response was,”I was Always intrigued by hair and how it can transform a person looks as well as demeanor. My oldest Brother and his best friend use to cut hair in the neighborhood. One day I told my brother I wanted to learn how to cut. I was like 12 and he said ok. my parents didn’t really take us to the Barber Shop unless it was for Easter or something. So he would let me cut his hair a little at a time before it got to the point where he couldn’t fix it. And by the time I was 13 I was cutting enough to do my friends(least I thought I was good enough).
It sound as though Taz path to becoming a Barber was Motivated by his older brother, and I asked Taz if he was the the reason, here is what he said, No he never took it serious. He did it to keep his self tight. yeah I looked up to my brother wanted to be just like him. He cut his own hair, I wanted to cut. He played the drums, I wanted to play. He loved to cook, I wanted to cook. He is a chef now about open his own restaurant.
It seems everyone has a path to greatness, it just so happens that he stop by the Barber trade on the way there! It is good to know he introduced a good brother to the game. What other Barbers have help to guide you in the Business? Or have had a major impact on how you see the Barber industry???
When I first started I didn’t know anything about the industry. I knew of Barber shops, but was not aware of the culture. I had an uncle who was a master Stylist. He would cut my hair when I spent the weekend with my Grandmother. I hated getting cut by him cause he was so heavy handed and would put me in the neck grab while he comb and cut my hair. One thing I knew he had money. Drove a nice car and lived in an upscale neighborhood which first showed me the career side of being in the hair industry. I was 21 when I first got exposed to what being a Barber is really about. When started my apprenticeship, I had a cousin through marriage who worked at the shop I was at, and he was the first major impact on me in the Barber industry. He had been cutting hair in that shop for years and had a great clientele, with the skills to back it up. I wanted to be just like him. He did designs, a very precise barber. then I went to my first Hair show the Proud Lady in Chicago. This blew my mind!
For some of us that have never attended The Proud Lady Show, tell us what it is and where it is? And what kind of impact it had on you???
The Proud Lady Hair Show back then was like the Bronner Bros. show of Chicago. It was held downtown Chicago at the Hyatt Hotel right off of Michigan Ave. Many Hair professionals that were well known doing that time, I’m talking about back in 2002-2003. Big Bad D, Little Willie, Cool C, G Whiz, etc. Lots of Celebrity guests like Judge Mathis and malinda Williams from the Soul Food Series at the time. This is when I saw “The Industry” and was hooked.

Support Christians Overcoming Cancer

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There are many organizations that raise money for cancer research and treatment, but only one that I know of that focuses primarily on the day-to-day living expenses of cancer patients who are in active treatment. When I heard the testimony of cancer survivor, Mary Jenkins, the founder of Christians Overcoming Cancer (COC), I knew I had to follow her lead and DO SOMETHING. Mary made a resolute decision to start an organization that, not only pays back, but pays forward the blessings she received while struggling financially, emotionally and spiritually through her own bout with cancer
When Mary was diagnosed with breast cancer as the single parent of three small children, she couldn’t work, and needed help with her bills, and no charity would help her out. Her church came to the rescue and committed to step in and help her with her bills. "… what if somebody doesn't have a church? Or they don't have resources? Who is going to help them?", Mary wondered and while still in active treatment, she decided to make a commitment to others like the one her church made to her… to help emotionally and financially… and thus, Christians Overcoming Cancer was born.

In COC’s Dollars Allocated To Assist program (DATA), patients, or parents of young patients who are in active treatment, can ask for help their bills. "Whether its mortgage or rent, electric, gas, water, car note, car repairs, or food… as long as there's money available, we will give it away," says Mary.
Takisha Jacobs, whose oldest daughter, Aaliyah, was diagnosed with a rare brain stem tumor at age 10, knows these struggles all too well. "So, you have to figure out how do you juggle work, be able to take care of your child like needed, and still have to pay your bills, and still have to take care of the other kids… I mean, it's real hard and frustrating." Thank God, Christians Overcoming Cancer was able to step in and help remove some of the fear and anxiety normally associated with these circumstances, allowing the family to focus on what’s most important - RECOVERY.
COC holds a fund raiser each month, and several special event fund raisers throughout the year in order to help as many people as they can. There are more people in need and you, too, can make the commitment to DO SOMETHING. There are two ways to continue giving throughout the year. DATA Dollar Day is the last day each month where everyone is asked to donate at least $5 to support COC’s Dollars Allocated To Assist (DATA) program; the program that addresses the immediate financial needs of the people. The Hands of Hope program, accept monthly donations of $5, $10 and $20 that go directly toward cancer awareness and prevention campaigns that connect people with the resources they need.
As an avid supporter of Christians Overcoming Cancer, I ask you to join me as I commit to DO SOMETHING to help COC be there to help. And it’s not just the men and women who have a 1 in 3 lifetime risk of developing an invasive cancer, but we all know someone, or have a family member or friend directly affected by a cancer diagnosis. We are thankful for researchers who are working diligently to find a cure. Our country raises millions of dollars for research and for the screening and treatment of low income and uninsured individuals. We regularly hear about this and it is a wonderful effort.
We have chosen to fill a void in the circle of organizations supporting those battling cancer. Many well known organizations often do not, cannot, or will not assist patients in meeting their financial needs. It is not uncommon to experience changes in the quality of life and financial hardships while seeking treatment? We meet the basic emotional and physical needs for those fighting the disease.
Please, partner with us. Go to www.ChristiansOvercomingCancer.com and hit the ‘Giving’ tab to set up your one time gift of any amount or a recurring donation of $5, $10 or $20 for the DATA program or Hands of Hope Campaign. Christians Overcoming Cancer is a faith based 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, so your contributions are tax deductible. It is your love and commitment to continue giving that enables us to help maintain the stability and quality of life for all cancer patients. We do so with respect, compassion and without religious discrimination, all so they can focus on what is really important . . . THEIR RECOVERY!

Together, we thank you.
Christopher Burke


You can also donate by mail with a check or money order:
Christians Overcoming Cancer
P.O. Pox 307133
Gahanna, Ohio 43230

Introducing One of the Most Energetic and Motivated Stylist/ Barbersinthe Game Meek Shearer!!!!

This issue of Barber’s Weekly is going to be a very Hot issue! We have today one of the Hottest chicks in the Game, a woman that could melt your heart with her vibrant energy, her strong presence, and warm attitude toward life. Meek Shearer is a Stylist/Barber and Educator that has her own approach on the Industry that would make you think about the way you look at this Business…
I asked Meek Shearer how long she had been a part of the industry, and what made her want to be in the hair industry? Listen to what she had to say,” I have loved Hair for the last 24yrs I have, been Licensed for 18yrs this Nov.. I believe Family background is why I landed in this field. My dad is a Barber for the last 40 plus years, his father was a Barber and many other stylist and Barbers on his side. My mom went to school, did hair far back as I can remember unfortunately never got her license, but even on her side of the family I had multiple aunts and cousins that are licensed stylist I think if it can truly be in your blood it is in Mine.
For those of you that may not know yet, we as vets have and can see some times, weather good or bad, a lot more good the Bad, and I’m sure the Vets really know what I mean by this, I asked Ms. Meek Shearer this question, and this is what she had to say, “A Bad time in the industry??? I wouldn’t say I have had one other then slow periods, financially and that to me is a no brainer, you go harder… I could choose to sit around and complain and cry broke (which I was guilty of doing) or I could began to speak life into my career and go seek clients to get their hair done… I found that there is always someone that wants their hair done/cut and I began to share what I was choosing to do and I saw a lot of good people overcome as well to the point I don’t think they realize just a year ago we were complaining it was slow, I can’t pay my bills to now at least 3 new salon owners and never saying those what I call fatal words again…


I asked Ms. Meek Shearer to tell our readers what steps she took to build on those, Low volume days, when or how did she promote to change that? This is what she had to say, “ First and foremost I changed my thinking… You put into the atmosphere what you want get out… I passed out more cards, I went vista print bananas!! I ordered post cords with daily specials, I did T-shirts that had my name on the back and my number on the front, I talked to potential customers when out and about. Its like you have to create a buzz, let them know who you are and where you are at… And most of all make each cut/stylist a fine work of art because word of mouth is most valuable. In tough times you can not give up if you are passionate about your craft….”
For those that know Meek Shearer personally, you know that Meek has some real history. She made some very bold moves through out her years in the industry. For those that are planning to Move or relocate to another state, this is for you, so pay close attention…

I am Originally from Dayton Ohio, I first relocated to Cleveland, Ohio. When I moved there I had nothing but a booth and a rental, no knowledge of how I would pay for it . I slept at hotels, sometimes friends house, I didn’t want to burden anyone, so for the most part I slept in the back office at the shop “It’s a Hair Thing.” Rise at 6am get dressed and turn on the open sign. I first built Clients off eyebrows (which I never done before that moment) then I began to offer free styles at random! Soon I was able to get a car and place in about 90 days all together… Soon I began the social Network thing on Myspace. I only joined to monitor my kids, I soon found many stylist and Barbers and began to add them… I met many of the Barbers that are on FB or in The Barber Society there, Chevez Moman, Lee Bladez, Nat Monnie, Mc Razor, Garland "G-Whiz" Fox (major mentor to me during my move til to Date) Major League Barber, and many others. But the one that would basically be responsible for me getting me to Charleston, SC. would be Robert Bligen! We would chat back and fourth about hair and one day he asked “ what would it take to get you in my salon?” At the time I was ready for a change so after all I had been through in Cleveland I wasn’t scared to try. I began to transition here. I asked if I could work upon my first visit he said yes so I began to solicit all woman I could in, Charleston posted mad bulletin and pictures, saying when I would be coming and where I’d be…. I will never my first visit, I had 9 booked, realistic to me would have been 3 or 4, but I had all 9 not to mention they continued to book the few days I was there." Ok I’ll come back in 3 weeks all I ask is if I’m going to style your hair just don’t allow anyone to cut it" and they obeyed brought and told friends needless to say my 3rd visit I stayed. I didn’t continue to work with Robert, However; I give him all the credit for opening the door for me, and we are still good friends." Social networks are our friends when used properly and I was getting good bread didn’t have to sleep in the shop !”
Here is what meek had to say to those Barbers/Stylist that are planing to Move to another state....

"Have Faith.... If there is something/anything you want to accomplish the only thing stopping you is self. Many are afraid to fail, I hear that the only thing Behind a failure is a try, so what it doesn't work... re-think, re-plan and re-do until you get results, if you want it, it isn't just gonna fall into your lap either... I feel very blessed it happened the way it did for me, had it not?? I have had to go to War for mine and that's what I recommend to anyone..... We are a part of a career that didn't collapse in this so called "Recession" we can go anywhere and eat for real so just go for it skies the limit for most, for us there is NO LIMIT!!!"

As you can see Meek Shearer has had a very serious journey, but don’t go any where because its not over yet! She gives us an insight on where she see the industry going in the future, along with her thoughts about The Barber Society…

I know some of you are wondering where Meek Shearer went to work after she decided to stay? Well here is what else she had to say “ I have been manager at Distinguished Gentlemen Barber/Beauty Salon for the last 11 months and it’s been cool, I am soon going to be embarking on a new position, as Stylist in a shop opening in the Northwoods Mall, here in North Charleston,SC called Barbers INC. which I’m really excited about… Most of the workers were hand selected because of working with the owners at a previous location for myself it was being recommended by Rashaad Murphy, who is working with me now as well as teaching me to cut as I tech him to style… When I asked meek,"Aren't you an instructor?" This is what she had to say..."I Guess you can say that, I prefer to say I share vs. teach, because I’m not one to pretend I know everything, I feel that when sharing people already know How to cut, style or whatever it is being shown, I simply show you how I achieve what I am looking for. My method of doing so or tools I use that work well for me, I feel a person will either go and try to duplicate it or add to what they already do which in turn will help them hopefully. That same person can take something I did and add to what they do and turn around and share with me and I learn something from them. I love to share I feel its a great part of my purpose in this industry weather its how to or through conversation. I always say I want to inspire...."

As Barbers/Stylist, we should and have all made some kind of impact on the industry some large some small, But it was some kind of impact No matter what the size!!! I asked Meek what kind of impact she wanted to leave on the Industry? Here is what she had to say..."The impact I would like to leave on the industry is LOVE!! Love who you are, Love what you do.... I never knew everything and I was always willing to learn as well as share. I want to be remembered as the stylist who was selfless.... I believe if someone comes to me for help, with a question or dalema if I didn't know how to help, I would help by finding someone who did. Most of all I wish to be the stylist that went super hard via social networks and began the journey to remind the industry of the fundamentals...."Getting back to the basics" I plan to make this happen by taking action, doing, practicing what I preach! Keep your eyes on meek! In fact I'd like for my legacy to write itself according to my actions."

As Barbers/Stylist we all at some point work together or have someone that we would like to work with. I asked Meek if there were any Barber/Stylist she would like to work with in the Game or have worked with before? here is what she had to say..."I am currently a Milstan Marcell irons" Short Hair Master"... as of late I was a member of Team Xotics that's my Fam for life. I am now embarking on Meeks Purpose/Path, I value my relationship with Curtis Smith. As a result of me feeling his product, which is a great one. I might add he gave me an opportunity to be one of the first stylist on the team and for that I'm honored and consider that home.... I have worked with Major League Barber who gave me my first Opportunity as a platform artist/educator..
. I plan to work with the like of Mc Razor, Nat Monnie, Lee Bladez, Rodrick Samuels, Jay Da Barber to name a few as well as a young lady most don't know as of yet but she is a heavy hitter in Charlotte, NC Ms. Angel Robinson i say "Be On The Look Out" for she and I not to mention the concept that Rashaad Murphy and I are creating for the industry!!! Ok since you Bought her up, and introduced her, Tell the readers who Angel Robinson! Angel Robinson is a great inspiration!!! She Moved to Charllote from Cleveland as I Moved to Charleston, she informed me on how to transition to Charleston, she was the owner of "Kiss n Makeup" in Cleveland for many years and its funny we met in Cleveland but really became close like family via Myspace!!! Now in Charlotte less than 2yrs she has opened "Styling IconZ Beauty lounge" one of the premiere salons in the area she is being coined the Lady version of "No Grease" she is a motivator and innovator you can check her out @StlinIconz on FB or Angel Robinson this woman keeps me afloat when I would otherwise sink!!!! Wow it sounds like she gives you the fuel you need to stay positive, and reach out for more? "Exactly!!!! And more than that I give her fuel! We share and firmly believe what is done in Charlotte can be done in Charleston as well! We stay connected as colleagues as well as sisters uplifting one another!

As you all know there is a major movement brewing on FB called The Barber Society, and I asked Meek what she thought about the Family known as The Barber Society, and this is what she had to say..."Well, I am a member I believe By default via Chris Burke who first told me he was gonna add me but by result you actually added me through conversations in other groups. I love it!!! We are adjoined in a way that is undenible and we have potential to be a great great presence in the industry, By passion alone ! that doesn't begin to take in account the actions we all put forth for example Celebrity Black with Germaine," Puttin Hair On The Floor" with Lee Bladez, Toni with the custom paint on the clippers so forth so on! we also have a great area to become educators to the industry based upon our individuality and desire to learn and make and impact on the industry with our creativeness and willingness to share with one another! The Barber Society will be the beginning of the realist movement in our industry to date!

I always end with a good word to the readers, And this is what meek had to say.... "I guess what I would like to leave you all with is, stay true to yourself and remain humble... This is a gift that God has given and any given moment if not careful it can be taken away! I Love it hard but I Love it right!! All in all How I live is compete with no one but self, who else do I need to be better than??? And I think the other day when I was feeling a little low and passion challenged I will call it,I reached out to Rodrick Samuels to come do a class at the school. I stated my passion was suffering of course If anyone knows him he welcomed me but what he said was "Passion speaks louder than words" That was powerful for me and I think a great way to look at what you do.... If you are passionate about your craft it shows without saying!!!!

Introducing To the Game Tina Sapia The Barber

   Thank you for reading Barber's Weekly, and today we have another up in coming Barber featured in our article. This barber is one of a lot of passion, she has a Love for the game like no other, an eye for detail that would make you proud to be a Barber. She is a part of some thing great, and is sure to be great, her work speaks for its self, and today she is speaking with me......

Today I just so happen to be on  facebook, and I see a status from a friend that says Tina Sapia, Barber, Styleseat.com. So I click the link and start reading, upon reading I find out that my good friend is almost done school and ready to join us on the playing field," I am currently a student at Artistic Nails and beauty academy and am projected to graduate in April. I am 35 years old and finally about to start my real career. The love of art has brought me to this position and I am glad it did ...Can't wait to start my journey."

So I looked my friend up and asked her for this interview, and she was glad to do it, as I was glad that she would, so I started the interview with the question we are always asked, which is, What Made you want to be a Barber?

She told me that "The Love of art and making people feel good about themselves! I Love the way people look at themselves when I am done with them."

When I asked Tina, if there was anyone in her life that had a Big Impact on her pursuing the Barber Lifestyle? 

This is what she had to say,"My Barber Jeff always knew how I liked my hair, and what looked good on me.... I owe it to him and the  Barber Society for making me want to be better." 

As you all know the challenges we face while we are in school can be hard some times, because of the paths we chose to take, in my conversation with Tina Sapia The Barber.  I wanted to know if she had any moments where she want to give up or got nerves about being a part of this lifestyle???

Here is what she had to say, "To be honest with you... there hasn't been one time where I thought I wanted to give up It's not how I roll! once I commit myself to something I stick to it and never turn back... I think that is very important, you can not make your dreams come true if you, Quit before you make it come true"

I know we all as Barbers, have Barbers that we think are great and would like to reach there level at some point and when I asked her about it this is what Tina Sapia The Barber Had to say about this " There are so many! Jesse Lima, Eric pacinos, Marcus P Hatch, Chris Burke, and many, many more, Oh and now Radames Perez...." I asked Tina Sapia The Barber if any of these barbers changed the way she looked at the game? " I've realized there are diffrent possibilities in the Barber game. I went into it thinking that cutting hair was the only way to succeed but now I see the light. I have so much potential. The Barber Society, Helped me think outside of the box.. 


As you all know Tina And I am Member of The  Barber Society and earlier Tina Sapia The Barber mention that she got a lot of her motivation from The Barber Society. I asked her about that and this is what she had to say to the people, "shuffling through different posts and different pictures allows you to think outside of the box. all these dedicated people doing portraits and designs, coming up with new products and others doing celebrity hair cuts. All this pushes me to do more and want more. Work harder and smarter! All these people made me want to stand out and be a pioneer as well!"

When I asked her if it was hard to go to Barber College, and still hold up her everyday Life, and here is what she had to say! "Having no time, to myself was the biggest struggle. Working full time and going to school really wears on your body and mind. The light at the end of the tunnel was too bright for me to resist. I over came all this by surrounding myself with supportive people that kept reminding me of how great life would be and how much I would enjoy being a Barber. And, Thank God For Being on My Side"

Now Looking at Tina Sapia The Barber's work, You would not think that she was a student, in fact you would not even call her a student at all, you can see a lot of art and detail in her work. I asked Tina Where she picked up some of her skills, and did she have a hard time when she first started doing it?

 

And this is what she had to say,"I draw in my free time so I thought I would try and do it on someones head. Didn't look so great at first and yes it was harder.... I couldn't just erase my mistakes. Slowly but surely I started getting better with repetition. I hope to keep progressing and keep learning."


Speaking of Progress, she made a major step as a student, where she joined her first Barber competition a little while ago I asked her to tell use about her experience!! "I felt as though I needed more experience and I also needed my name out there! I was a nervous wreck, and my hands were shaking, but it felt good to be up there in the end...."  


I ask Tina if she planned to do more in the future and her answer was "Yes sir I need to step my Game up first" I asked her how and she said "Keep honing my skills and learning different techniques by studying the Barbers that I respect."


I asked Tina what kind of impact do you want to make on the Game once you get out here in the world? and this is what she had to say, "I would love to help people Build confidence and strength in themselves. I feel if a person has confidence in them self then they will have the strength to try anything...."


So as you all know when it comes time to finish school you get excited and restless, and I asked Tina how she feels about coming out into the world with the Barbers she knows and this is what she had to say, "It feels amazing to be at the end! I have sacrificed a lot by going to school and working, I was worth it..... The sense of accomplishment is so Gratifying! One more obstacle is state Board and once I pass, then I can truly Celebrity!


I asked Tina What she wanted to say to someone that could be thinking about Becoming a Barber or making it there Lifestyle, and this is what she had to say, "What ever the struggle is at the time, just deal with it one day at a time! Take the first step into a stable career, and give everyday a good solid effort. Always remember life gets better if you live honestly."


This was an interview I was very happy to do, because not only is Tina a Member of my TBS Family, but she is also a co Writer for this Barber's Weekly, and I am very happy to see her coming through to the next level, of the game, GOOD LUCK TINA SAPIA I WISH YOU MUCH LUCK.....

We Introduce to you a New and up in coming Snoop Da Barber

Many times we begin a journey without knowledge of what the elements are. A few weeks ago I attended a "student hair show" in Kissimmee, Florida. In my travels I met up with a few people that I heard about and was dying to meet, one of them being Ivan Zoot and the other Eric Pacino. Along the way I met up with "Snoop DaBarber", Snoop is another female Barber who like myself is trying to get done with school and become a professional Barber in the hair industry. I decided to interview Snoop because I wanted a true and honest opinion about what we had witnessed at the F.A.C.T.S hair show and I knew Snoop would give me just that.
Through "facebook inbox" I interviewed Snoop about the show and asked her what she thought. "It was a great networking opportunity, yet the vendors should have been more approachable. Most students are afraid to speak up and ask questions. The classes were very educational and interesting". Networking is a major part of the business we are in. In your opinion, what can we do as brand new members to the hair industry to make these hair shows a little bit more welcoming to students? "have more competitions based for students, more classes on Barber, cosmetology tips and business tips." Snoop is right! I think it is very important to have a sense of belonging when you first come out into the barber scene. The talent is everywhere! Snoop, I see you commenting and networking with other Barbers on facebook constantly, to me, this is one of the best ways of networking. How did it help you at the show? She stated, "facebook has helped a lot with networking. Seeing them at the symposium was a lot easier and comfortable." The ability to speak to them first made it easier to approach the guest speakers and hosts" Did anyone at the show make a difference in the way you think or feel about Barbering for better or worse? "Ivan Zoot! I always idolized him but seeing him in person and learning from him was absolutely what I needed. How he spoke about he went from just what we are doing to standing knee deep in horse shit on a farm cutting show horses! That was so much inspiration. Mr. Jackie always tells me how good my work looks, certain tips to use along the way. Not completely interrupting your cut, but just stepping in, saying/doing what he needs to and letting me do the rest." I couldn't help but to compare her feelings to mine and I couldn't agree more! Seeing the "well known" Barbers was an intimidating thought but once I stood in front of them they were down to earth and chill like everyone else.
As the interview went on I ask Snoop a personal question. I asked, "Snoop, off the record, do you think we as women have to work harder to compete with men or do you think gender doesn't matter?" Snoop quickly responded in confidence and said, " I believe we do! Hands down though some of the fellas we encounter are cool with it, most aren't so we have to work even harder to earn that credit or respect from the disbelievers and I would like that on the record, just speaking out for female barbers". Many people wouldn't think female Barbers get treated like this but, I find myself working harder than most at my school just because I am a female and the confidence and credibility has to be proven. Whether it be a religious belief, traditional belief or just a belief in general, people are not quite used to having female Barbers and it's ok! Let me throw in a side note in there .. This is in no way phasing us a women barbers! It just makes us tougher!
In Closing, I asked Snoop DaBarber, Once you are done with school do you plan on continuing to go to hair shows and broadening your horizons as a Platform artist, celebrity Barber so on and so forth? With confidence and not a second of hesitation she responded, "YES I DO!!! There’s nothing more rewarding to me than to let the world know that just becoming a simple Barber, you will be able to make it around the world. Kids nowadays look to be rappers, athletes and so forth to make the "big bucks" but all they need to know is to be themselves and be great at what you want to do and God will provide everything and more"! I couldn't agree with you more Snoop the possibilities are endless and the only thing that can stop you is if you take your eye off your goal!!!! Every success story starts with a dream. Keep your dream at the forefront of your mind! Snoop is there any last remarks before we sign off? With "Barber Love" she responded "YOU keep up the great work! That portrait is absolutely crazy!!! Once again, thank you Snoop I appreciate you taking the time to meet with me and for doing this interview .

Article by: Tina Sapia

Should A Barber Shop have Rules and Regulations That Apply Equally follow

Now there are some that believe that everyone in the shop should follow the rules, and I agree to a point that there are some rules that should be strongly enforced in the shop where the Barbers are concerned. There are owners that Believe that because they leave at a particular time of day that that should be it. That works fine if when you are doing commission, and even then I don’t think that the Barber should be restricted.
It makes no since to hold back your colleagues if you no longer have the drive to get the people in the door, or should I say Beating down your door to get a cut.When a Barber puts in the time and energy to build his client list, and get his book full enough to be over book that is a Blessing. Why should a Barber stop doing what he does just because the owner feels he has made enough money, and yet they still want there money at the end of the week, how could he think that because his business is done at the end of the day that, his Barbers business is also, at some point the owner is being unreasonable about what he wants his Barbers to do when they are really self employed....

If A Barber Moves to another shop what would be the Right thing to do where his/her clients are concerned

   As some of you may know I am apart of The Barber Society, and they are the inspiration for this Blog. I wanted to say a few things about the topic, there are many reasons that a barber would change shops, and some are good reasons, some are not so good reasons, it matters to me what the reason is but to others it matter a lot, we will see through out this Blog how much it matters to different Barbers. So pay attention and I hope you enjoy and Think about what you are reading….

There are Many reasons why a Barber could moves his personal location! It could be that they feel they are not receiving the support that they my need in order to grow, some may feel that they have out grown there current location, others may leave because of a disagreement with management. What ever the reason, it is there own, the question is what would the owner or manager do when a client comes in and they have not gotten the word of your move???

Now some Believe that the Professional thing to do would is to give the client the Barbers information, if he did not already have it, and some said that it would be bad for the shop its self, if clients were directed to another shop it would be like sending money to someone else's Business and putting food in there mouths. That’s not really a true statement to me because truth is if they are his client then they will go to him, if they belong to the shop then they will stay put, at least that’s how I see it, everyone is not going to go across town or a few miles up the road though some clients will travel as far as the barber goes just to stay with him because he really gives those clients what they want, and they have the right type of Bond with each other….

Now some may argue that if the Barber does not give the client his information, which in some cases may be true, in other cases they are not always going to keep the barbers information/Business card because they figure he is always there so I know where he is and he is not going any where so I don't need it, others just loss the information via it lost phone or lost card but either way it was lost and they don't have it. Then there is the case of the once a month client that maybe did not come in doing the time he informed the other clients of his move....

Ok so if we as Barbers don’t look out for our fellow barbers, and take the time to build our own clientele, then what does that say about your skills as a Barber. Me myself I don’t want to build my Client book that way, I would rather build my Book on merit it just feels better…..

Last Words

Ok so I could go on and on about this topic but I’m not right now, all I’ll say is that there are a lot of ways to handle this situation, to tell another Barbers client where he has relocated to is really a small thing compared to the client that does not want to follow him/her to another shop, so if you take the time to give the client a choose to set in your chair then at least you know that the client was the shops client and not just a client you stool, so just take a chance on doing the right thing because sometimes its not just about the client its more about personal growth…

Interview with a rising Palma Anshilevich

Photo Courtesy of Palma Anshilevich

       Palma Anshilevich Is a Young lady that is full of Energy and is filled with a lot of Passion for what she does, she is a rising star in the industry, with so much to offer anyone that would be interested in this industry. this is a woman filled with joy, knowledge, determination, and positive Energy you just have to pay attention. She is a person that cares for the people around her don't just take my word for it here is what she has to say...

I asked her How long she had Been apart of the Industry, here is what she had to say... 

 " My who life...I am a Daughter of a Barber and so Proud! However, My Father never wanted me to get involved in the industry because of the Hard work and dedication so I went to University and graduated and then I decided I couldn't stand back from my dream of being in the Hair industry any longer....so here we are 11 years and counting"

Ok so as we all know there were some issues that we as Barbers had to overcome before we could be comfortable with the Business, with all of it Ups and downs, More ups then downs.... 


 "Put yourself Out there.... First understand Where Barbers come from and what they stand for... History! Second, get involved By Taking  classes and never feel like you know everything.There is always something to learn and someone to meet. Stand out in of the crowd and get noticed... Be you! Enter into competitions and show them what you got! Everyone is a Winner...."

Ok so I have Been asked this question many times so I know that its a question you all get from someone interested in the industry, lets see what it is, and what she has to say about it....

I asked her what Drew her to this game, outside of her Father doing it?

"THE ART!  TRULY I always knew I had the God given talent to do Hair! It is an amazing feeling when your see your clients face and they know they look good because of there hair. Really, when a person walks into a room, the first thing a person sees is there Hair. when we describe a person the first thing we say is something about there hair. So to have that power it is a blessing! Hair is fabric that we have the chance to mold into a Beautiful piece of ART!"  

    I wanted to know if she had any issues or hard times with been a female in a Male dominated industry listen to what she has to say....


    "Its only a benefit... the men want to know what I bring to the table so in turn it gives me more opportunity to show them what I can do... with my skills and Love for Hair"  

      As Barbers we have our own challenges that we face in this industry, so I asked Palma what were some of her challenges and this is what she had to say....


   "Starting From the bottom and working My way up... Even though My father has a Shop, he wouldn't like me working for him so I had to go work in the most challenging area of Toronto and prove myself. after a few years my father invited me to work not for him but with him. The challenge is only a challenge if you make it a challenge. I made it a learning experience! Everyday we continue to learn!"

And if you are wondering what she did to over come those challenges, I asked Ms. Palma and here is what she had to say....

   " Take the Negatives and make them Positive. If someone either it being a client or another hairstylist was trying to make a situation difficult I would always take my time to work around it we deal with the public and sometimes alter-ego's so I stand back and let them see that I am not here to challenge them but to share with them and learn with them! They get the point! I don't Believe in intimidation, I believe in respect! We all came from the same place!"


I know there are some people out there that want to know How Palma Anshilevich got with Team Xotics well i asked her and here is what she had to say...


"I was working a show in Houston when I was on the platform doing my thing and sharing the Love...DC and Curtis Smith were walking by and DC yells out your a beast....so I said to everyone I guess ya'll haven't seen a white girl do Black hair! Well they were all waiting for that! They were all thinking it and no one had the guts to say it! I became known at the show for being the white girl who does black hair! Really silly to me, there is no Black Hair or white hair just hair to me. Its all hair! So I connected with DC and told him about my passion and drive for the industry and I fell in Love with the XOTIXS MOVEMENT!!! So her we are.....MAKING HISTORY!!!"


   While I was doing her interview I stumbled upon a Blog that she herself write and I wanted to know what the motivation was behind it  Your Stylist Shouldn't be a Secret 
and i asked her about it here is what she had to say....

"I Love what I do and my clients know that and a few of them would say to me, your so good, I'm never going to tell anyone about you! I had to Express myself in another way so I wrote about it! And a few of my clients saw the Blog and have made a point to spread the Palma Love!"

I know some of you have the desire to be a platform artist so I asked Palma Anshilevich about her days as a platform stylist and how she got into it hers what she had to say....

  "I knew I had the energy to be up there! I love the audience and their all there for the same reason to learn and share with each other. I knew I had to be up there spreading the love. I love getting interactive with the audience and I always learn something new whenever I'm up on stage. As for a new barber or Stylist to get involved with platform work, they have to get involved with a company that they have an interest in. Contact them and let them know how much passion you have for there product and would love the opportunity to work with them, even if its to assist and learn from the experience!".


As you all know the Bronner Bros. Hair show just passed and I asked her what where her thought on the show and the Barbers Round Table Hosted by Curtis Smith and this is what she had to say....

"As for it was my first time and I only heard great things about it . I did see the documentary that Chris Rock did called Good Hair! So as for my first experience it was fantastic! I got to meet the man himself which was cool!

Now for the Barbers Round Table, My First time at this event it left me speechless, which we all know is hard to do. The evening was filled with passion and drive from all of us there. We were all there for the same reason to Bring the BarberLove to the table and say it as it is... I was honored to be inaugurated into the Xotics Family that night. What can I say... really my honor and pleasure to be apart of a Family with the same love and passion!"

Now I usually have some last words for my Readers, this time I asked Palma Anshilevich to give use some last words and this is what she had to say....

" There are thousands of stars in the Sky and we all deserve to shine! Spread the love...BarberLove!!!

Bronner Bros. Hair Show Review

      As I walk Into the Congress Center in downtown Atlanta, I can feel the energy, and I had not gotten into the center really good. There were children selling Programs,Barbers and stylist congregating and Politicking about the show and the things they would do once they got back to the shop, and the was only the second day in, and they were already excited about the classes they had taken, and the products they had come across at the show, once I saw and heard those things, I knew it would really be a weekend to remember.

Photo Courtesy of Christopher Burke

So as I walk through the halls I run into a familiar face, Chris Burke of Columbus Ohio, He was kind enough to show me around seeing it was my first time there, and I wanted to be introduced to the people, and get all I could get out of my weekend, we talked a good while on the way to the show room floor, where all of  the action was taking place,

Photo Courtesy of Jesse Lima and EGO Photography 

On the way there we saw some sites like the Andis Barber Competition where Barbers compete on style class, and just old fashion skill, we chopped it up with some of the Members of the Xotics Team, like Jesse Lima, throwing down with the clipper hand was primed and ready to work with his art work, magic clipper pencil, color ready to bring the art to life, like a real tattoo design…

Photo Courtesy of Gregg Tahir Ti-Ga Woods

This Booth was really taking off, with Jesse Lima Doing his thing at the Xotics Booth and the Xotics product was selling out fast, so if you get the chance go on line and order your product it is an investment you are sure not to miss with....

Major League Barbers

Photo Courtesy Of Gregg Tahir Ti-Ga Woods

Now this Booth was a Booth that was really jumping and flowing with Energy, the way that they Marketed themselves was unbelievable I men they had the Clippers going, the finger Razors moving, the music blasting, and crowd participation in play, it was like going out to the club on a Friday night and dancing with all the girls....

I must say that there team really did move in unison, and no one was lift out. From the way that they sold there T-shirts, to the way they cut the Hair, everything looked like it all moved like a well oiled machine. I must say they did a great job in that Booth

Celebrity Black
 

photo Courtesy of Germaine Walker

Photo Courtesy of Germaine Walker

While I was there I got to chop it up with the owner and maker of Celebrity Black, this Brother is such a humble guy. He make the Product himself by hand right now, he says he created this product because he noticed that other products did not provide the look or the results that he would be trying to reach, so he went into his lab to come out with this, it is an all natural product, with a smoother finish, and the right amount of gloss to go with it. this Brother was a real force in the show, he took the show by storm with his New product, and the skills his son displayed at the show were awesome the way he shine his light on this event really should the Love and passion he has for this industry. We see you Germaine walker and we wish youthe Best of luck with you Celebrity Black....