Meet Tracy Miles of Krossoverbarbershop

Today we’d like to introduce you to Tracy Miles.

Hi Tracy, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.

In 2005, I relocated to Dallas from Kansas City, Kansas, and began working at Ross Perot Systems. While building my career in corporate America, I continued to practice my lifelong passion as a barber, cutting hair in the evenings after work.

I earned a bachelor’s degree in Computer Science and Management Information Systems, followed by a master’s degree in Management. Notably, I obtained my barber’s license prior to completing my college degrees, as barbering has always been a core part of my professional identity.

In 2006, I began working at Krossover Barbershop. Four years later, when the owner decided to step away from the business, I purchased the shop and assumed ownership. Krossover Barbershop has been in operation for over 20 years. Over that time, we have expanded and relocated to three different locations and are currently based in Allen, Texas.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?

Since establishing my business in this area, one of the primary challenges has been securing affordable commercial space. In Allen, Texas, and throughout North Texas, rental costs for small businesses are particularly high due to the combination of base rent and triple-net (NNN) expenses, which makes traditional retail spaces difficult to sustain.

Another ongoing challenge is recruiting and retaining skilled, committed barbers within the community. While many individuals are drawn to the idea of becoming a barber, they often underestimate the level of discipline, consistency, and client-building required to succeed long term. Barbering is a client-driven profession, and without a strong, loyal clientele, it is difficult to remain viable in the industry.

Additionally, the rise of private salon and barber suites in the area has created increased competition. These suites allow professionals—such as barbers, hairstylists, and massage therapists—to operate independently in private spaces at a cost that is often comparable to, or only slightly higher than, renting a station in a traditional barbershop. This trend has presented another challenge for traditional barbershop owners in maintaining full occupancy and long-term

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
One of my primary focuses in the barbering profession is educating younger barbers that success extends far beyond cutting hair. It involves delivering excellent customer service, managing finances responsibly, and planning for the future through investments such as IRAs, healthcare coverage, and retirement accounts.

Many barbers, particularly independent contractors, do not have health insurance or any form of retirement plan, such as an IRA or SIMPLE 401(k). As a result, they often focus solely on earning income and paying immediate expenses without preparing for long-term financial security.

Drawing from my experience in corporate America and my educational background, I make a conscious effort to teach barbers who have never worked in a corporate environment the importance of financial planning and career sustainability. This includes understanding benefits, saving strategies, and long-term investments that support stability later in life.

This is one of the aspects of my work I am most proud of—being able to provide knowledge and guidance that can help barbers build not only successful careers, but also secure futures. Because many barbers do not pay into Social Security, it is critical to establish retirement plans early. Without proper planning, there is no safety net once they stop cutting hair. Having an IRA or SIMPLE 401(k) is essential to ensuring financial independence and security in retirement.

If you had to, what characteristic of yours would you give the most credit to?

One of the most important factors contributing to my success is my ability to understand people. This includes continuous education through reading and learning about human behavior and leadership styles. I recognize that individuals do not respond to management in the same way, and effective leadership requires adapting to each person’s needs and motivations rather than applying a one-size-fits-all approach.

Often, effective management does not feel like management at all. By being fair, consistent, and intentional in my actions, I am able to create an environment built on trust. This consistency fosters confidence among independent contractors, who are more likely to thrive when they believe their business owner is acting in their best interest and supporting their success.

When contractors trust leadership and feel supported, it strengthens relationships, improves performance, and ultimately makes the business easier and more effective to

Pricing:

• Haircut $40
• Hair/Beard $60
• Shave $30
• Edge up $15

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.akrossoverbarbershop.com
• Instagram: Krossoverallen