What happened to the barbershop?

Many of you remember the barbershop I ran on Tyler Blvd in Mentor. For seven years, we built something special there. It was a 14-chair shop full of good vibes, laughter, and a loyal community. Then, one Saturday, everything changed.

I received a call from one of my barbers asking to meet in the parking lot. What I thought was a routine conversation turned into something I never saw coming. He told me that, for over six months, he and two others had secretly been building a new shop down the street—and they were taking two more barbers with them.

Just like that, I lost five barbers in one day. No warning, no chance to prepare or even fill the empty chairs. It was done without integrity, without respect—an intentional rug pull that had a ripple effect on me, my shop, and the brand I gave everything to build over the past 20 years.

I had to close the shop. I tried starting a mobile business, but it didn’t feel right. I lost my drive. I felt betrayed, questioning how people I once trusted and supported could do something so hurtful—so publicly and dishonestly. On top of that, they spread lies about the environment and who I was as a boss. But anyone who walked into that shop knows the truth. The energy, the joy, the loyalty—we built that together. And I never asked for more than what they agreed to when they applied.

Their actions weren’t just unprofessional—they were cowardly. And while it still hurts to this day, I’ve chosen to move forward with purpose instead of bitterness. I wish them the best—and trust that karma will handle the rest.