Today we’d like to introduce you to RaSheen Johnson.
Hi RaSheen, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
My journey started out more of a hobby and or side hustle in the summer of 1997. I started out cutting my friend hair for free with the goal of getting good enough to be able to charge people, and make decent side money. I was already cutting my own hair well so naturally assumed i would cut their hair good as well. sadly that wasn’t the case. So much so, that i eventually gave up all together.
I never really gave up the desire to cut hair as I knew that it was something I could do. I tried again in 2001. I was clearly a novice, but was able to pick things up so much quicker and with better understanding the second time around. I got better with each haircut. Not charging anything for a month or two. Once I I felt safe, I was charging $5, later $10, $15, $20, $25, then $30! I was charging $30 by late 2002, early 2003 all from the garage and unlicensed That was something to be very proud of at that time.
What started as a hobby, became a passion. I began to see myself doing “this’ (barbering) and started mapping out how I could shift careers. In June of 2003 I enrolled in an apprenticeship program and was blessed to be sponsored by Mark Wilson of Tru Barber Styles barbershop in Stockton, CA.
Things in my life transpired causing me to pause from apprenticeship in late 2004, but I did continue to cut hair from home. Fast forward, It’s now 2017. I was able to obtain my Barbers License. from there I didn’t look back. I continued to perfect my craft and developed my brand.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It was not the smoothest of roads as I started barbering in my late 20’s. I was a husband, new father, and had a good job that i actually enjoyed. I also enjoyed barbering as well. As mentioned, I paused from the apprenticeship program because my wife was pregnant with our son. The pregnancy was rough and we were in the hospital frequently, having a big impact in my ability to be consistent as a barber. Consistency is very important in this industry, especially as you’re in the beginning stages.
I was blessed with my clientele, but also learned quickly that providing quality service, good communication and consistency of the product are valued. Clients will wait and work with you for what you have provide. These are a few of my core values that have always set me apart in this industry.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I am Barber/Entrepreneur approaching my 23rd year in the industry. My services include tailored haircuts and styles crafted to for men, woman, and children, complimenting my clients individual needs. These services consist of razor shaves, facials, eyebrow work, various treatments improving hair and skin appearance.
I’ve been blessed to participate in recourse events giving back to young men and men transitioning from being incarcerated. Depositing confidence, hope, and encouraging words.
I’ve partnered with Non profit organizations to manage and participate in “Back to School” events for the youth.
I’ve had the opportunity and honer of being requested to give gentlemen their ‘final’ haircut in preparation for their funeral.
I’ve had the honor of working “on set” of three films “Mr. Gates 2021, Twelve 2023, Bid for Love2 2023. Scheduled for an upcoming short film for early 2026.
In the last four years my special needs clientele has increased. Working with parents to service children on the spectrum. I can say that it can be stressful at times, but the smiles of the kids and tearful joy of the parents are worth it. Barbering is far bigger than the ‘haircut”. Its light, encouragement, confidence & self esteem builder, mentorship, help, and so much more.
I try to operate every aspect of my business and brand with a level of pride and professionalism yet while remaining humble and human. These attributes are what set me apart from a lot of barbers.
Let’s talk about our city – what do you love? What do you not love?
Sometimes I wish I was closer to the bigger city (Dallas) for a higher price point of clientele. So that would probably be what I like least. Living in the heart of my demographic is what I do like most. I’m ten minutes from my location. I believe I have a greater positive impact as I’m apart of the community.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://radiqulouscuts.square.site/
- Instagram: @radiqulouscuts
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Radiqulouscuts15
- Other: radiqulous@gmail.com
Image Credits
all photos were taken by me. RaSheen A. Johnson aka Radiqulouscuts
