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The latest issue of BarberEVO NA is OUT NOW! This issue is set to make waves in the industry… bringing you exclusive content from the best barbers in the biz’. BarberEVO has brought together a collection of content from our esteemed columnists and industry leaders, whilst also highlighting those rising stars of the industry. In our springtime issue, we talk styling, interiors, business, shaving and more. With all of this…and even more – this issue is one to remember!

IN THIS ISSUE:

L3VEL3

Kicking off this edition, we have L3VEL3™ on the cover – who are, indeed, taking things to the next level. The brand has always showed up in style, but now they are arriving in color. A-ROD takes center stage on our cover to show off just what KRAY can do. We also caught up with the L3VEL3™, Chrystofer Benson, and the Director of Events & Artists, Hannah Benson, who played instrumental roles in the development of their new color line.

EVENTS

Events the last few weeks have been popping off. So, in this issue – find out where we have been off to in the last few months! Jetting across the country from Cosmoprof Miami with JRL and Rolda, to ABS Chicago and the Global Image Awards to the Barberstrong HQ! We look forward to the NAHAs at Premier Orlando and more…

IN THE CHAIR

In this edition, we’re in the chair with J Valentin. Known for striking cuts and colors that challenge conformity and encourage individuality as a Red PRO Ambassador, all whilst running his incredibly successful barbershop – Who’s Next – and being an SMP pioneer… there was no one better to sit down with. Our One 2 Watch is the amazing Isabella Birket – AKA Lefty Barber. We chatted with the up-and-coming barber – who defied all the odds whilst being a left-handed barber.

STYLING

This edition, we get into the world of styling. Connecting with the iconic Drastic Art Barbering, as well as two of our columnists – Dayna Gamba and John Mosley – we talk styling in virtually every realm of the industry. We even chat with Fern the Barber – who takes a straight talking, uplifting approach to the hair world.

INTERIORS

Your surroundings have more of an influence on you than you think… and you can never underestimate the power of a great barbershop, especially with a great interior. In this edition, we visit Winsome Barbers to learn more about their incredible story, and how it all ties into aesthetics. Next, we look at chairs with Keller, before heading across the pond to Kesman Male Grooming in the UK. All this and more, before we get down to business.

BUSINESS

Kicking off business, we have Glassbox Barbershop and Church of California – who talk through their approaches to implementing sustainability. All this before catching up with our columnists Byrd Mena and Matthew Mendoza, we also go behind the brand with Jay Majors – business is thriving! Our Diary of a CEO is with Tommy Gun’s Keenan Fisher, where we look back at his journey in business – and look ahead to the future of the thriving Tommy Gun’s. Lastly, we talk tech and shaving – where art, craft and trade combine.

Vagaro is taking its partnership with renowned barber and educator Phil Jarman to the next level, providing him with a complimentary MySite design and setup that seamlessly updates based on his Vagaro account settings. To ensure a smooth transition, Phil will also receive 1:1 coaching and white-glove service, helping him navigate the onboarding process with ease.

Phil expressed his excitement about the collaboration, stating: “Vagaro is a turn key solution for all my needs as a business owner, barber and educator. The company embodies the definition of class; from the software itself, all the staff I’ve worked with, setting up my account, to any help and ongoing support needed. 

“This is by far the most amazing app for barber, hair, or beauty businesses and really takes the standards to another level. If you want your business to flourish, Vagaro will more than help with the process.”

Vagaro UK’s Managing Director, Jason Downes, highlighted Phil’s impact on the industry and the value of this partnership: “We have an established relationship with Phil, and have always admired the way he innovates & inspires via his global coaching programs, whilst still growing his own amazing barber business.

“With Phil consistently travelling, sharing wisdom (and humour) wherever he goes, having Vagaro by his side allows him to keep on top of his business anywhere in the world, across any time zone.”

Vagaro hopes this is just the beginning of a bigger collaboration—one that will continue to support Phil’s journey while showcasing how powerful Vagaro’s tools are for modern barbers and educators.

For Women’s History Month, we are featuring the stories of some of Wahl Professionals top female barbers who have risen through the industry and made a name for themselves. 

Brittany Calzada, Barber and Wahl Pro Educator

My journey into barbering started with a passion for sculpting and manipulating hair. I always appreciated the art of personal grooming and how a haircut could transform someone’s confidence. I love that barbering goes beyond just cutting hair, it allows you to connect with people you probably wouldn’t have met otherwise.

As a woman operating a male-dominated industry, I’ve faced challenges. There were moments when clients were surprised to see a female barber and doubted my ability. I’ve been overlooked in the shop just because I was a woman, and I had to work harder to earn a guest’s trust and respect. At the end of the day, the challenges were fuel to my fire and desire to become one of the best professionals in the industry. I focused on honing my skills and letting my talent speak for itself, and it’s led me to become the accomplished barber that I am today and my partnership with Wahl.

Working with Wahl has been a game changer for my career. I’ve had the opportunity to work with a brand that is recognized and trusted for its high-quality tools, dedication to the craft, and commitment to accessible education for professionals at any level in the industry. Throughout the partnership, the brand helped me elevate my skills with the right tools and continuous training. Some of my favorite Wahl Pro products to work with are the Wahl Pro Magic Clip, the Wahl Pro Vanish Shaver, and the new Wahl Pro Vapor™. And being part of the team has opened doors to opportunities and growth.

As the industry is becoming more diverse and women in barbering are being recognized more and more, there’s more space for female barbers to make their mark, and more opportunities for brands and leaders in the industry to support aspiring female barbers. Today’s industry is becoming a more supportive community where women feel encouraged to thrive, and I’m truly excited to be a part of it and be a role model for the next generation.

My advice to aspiring barbers would be never to underestimate your worth and your abilities. If a client chooses not to get a haircut from you because you’re a woman, respect their decision and know that the client isn’t the right fit for you. This is the first step in building up your confidence and allowing yourself to focus on clientele that want your expertise behind the chair. The next step to making your confidence unshakeable is by practicing your craft as much as possible and surrounding yourself with supportive peers of all genders who believe in you. With these steps – a Wahl tool in hand! – any aspiring women barber will be unstoppable.

Andis’s recent launch of the Envy II Clippers in both Standard and Premier editions not only bridge the gap between fade and taper blends, but they also offer users the ability to customize it for left-hand use with the bonus left-hand lever arm included in the kit!

“The Envy II Clippers embody Andis Company’s commitment to innovation and improvement,” said Matt Andis, Co-CEO of Andis Company. “With unmatched versatility, inclusivity and performance, we are excited to see how both new and experienced users will benefit from these next-level tools.”

Essential to the Envy II Clippers is the all-new Phaze blade, an adjustable carbon-steel blade that transitions seamlessly from 0000 to 0A. This blade bridges the gap between fade and taper blends, offering unmatched versatility and precision.

Additionally, the Envy II Clippers’ perfectly balanced design reduces hand strain, while the textured housing provides a secure grip, ensuring effortless use during extended salon sessions.

The Envy II Clipper (standard) features a more powerful motor than the first-edition Envy Li Cordless Clipper, running at 6,500 SPM, with a lithium-ion battery for up to two hours of run time. The kit includes 11 attachment combs, providing a wide range of cut lengths for versatile styling options.

And for those seeking an extra touch of luxury, the Envy II Clipper Premier edition features elegant gold housing with a premium charging stand and six attachment combs, combining sophistication with practicality. The Envy II Premier Clipper features an even more powerful motor, running at 6,700 SPM, with a lithium-ion battery for up to two and a half hours of run
time.

The Phaze blade on the Premier edition also features a dynamic, 28-tooth ceramic cutter that runs cooler and stays sharper longer, enhancing durability and performance.

Envy can be a good thing, especially if it’s in your hand.

The National Hair & Beauty Federation (NHBF) has announced that Caroline Larissey, Chief Executive and Rosina Robson, Director of Policy and Public Affairs, have been named in the 2025 Women in Trade Associations Powerlist.

This prestigious recognition, curated by the Trade Association Forum (TAF), Federation of Small Businesses (FSB), and Confederation of British Industry (CBI), celebrates 100 inspirational women who have made significant contributions to trade associations across the UK.

The Powerlist will be officially launched today, March 7, 2025, to coincide with International Women’s Day, underscoring the vital role of female leadership in various sectors.

Caroline Larissey, who assumed the role of NHBF Chief Executive in November 2023, has been instrumental in driving the federation’s strategic initiatives. Her extensive experience spans over three decades, beginning as a salon junior and progressing through roles such as stylist, beauty therapist, business owner, and further education lecturer. Prior to her current position, Caroline served as the NHBF’s Director of Quality and Standards, where she championed the development of industry standards and best practices.

Under Caroline’s leadership, the NHBF has successfully implemented an ambitious five-year strategy, restructured the organization for enhanced operational efficiency, and ensured financial stability and transparency. Notably, the launch of the NHBF Manifesto in May 2024 has set a positive vision for the future, outlining how the government can better support the creativity, entrepreneurship, and public service displayed by NHBF members.

Caroline expressed her gratitude for the recognition, stating,
“I am deeply honoured to be recognized in the 2025 Women in Trade Association Powerlist alongside my exceptional colleague, our director of policy and public affairs Rosina Robson. This past year has marked a significant transformation for the NHBF as we’ve successfully implemented our ambitious five-year strategy, restructured our organisation with clear operational frameworks, ensuring both financial stability and transparency. Particularly rewarding has been the launch of our NHBF Manifesto and the establishment of our advisory boards, areas where Rosina’s outstanding work in policy and political engagement has been instrumental. Her expertise has significantly amplified our sector’s voice at the highest levels of government and strengthened our influence across key policy areas.

The development of our NHBF, Survive and Thrive with the NHBF initiative, our Assured Trade Member scheme, digital credits, recognising sector excellence, and our innovative ‘Business in a Box’ Member offer represent just some of the ways we’re revolutionising how trade associations deliver value. Being selected by FSB, CBI, and the Trade Association Forum validates our approach to combining sector-specific expertise with strategic vision to create lasting positive change for our members and the entire hair and beauty sector.”

Rosina Robson, NHBF’s Director of Policy and Public Affairs, brings a wealth of experience from her work in Westminster and Whitehall, where she has been pivotal in securing positive changes to legislation. At the NHBF, Rosina is responsible for presenting the views of members on critical issues such as wages, standards, and taxation to politicians across England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.

Rosina’s outstanding work in policy and political engagement has significantly amplified the sector’s voice at the highest levels of government. Her efforts have strengthened NHBF’s influence across key policy areas, ensuring that the concerns and aspirations of members are effectively communicated and addressed.

The inclusion of Caroline Larissey and Rosina Robson in the 2025 Women in Trade Associations Powerlist highlights NHBF’s dedication to excellence, advocacy, and the advancement of the hair and beauty industry.

As March is Women’s History Month, BarberEVO decided to team up with Wahl Professional to show our appreciation of some of the top female barbers in the industry, and how they have overcome adversity in a male-dominated industry.

Featuring: Kristi Faulkner, Wahl Education Team, International Platform Artist & Educator

From a very early age, I loved everything about cutting hair – I always cut all my Barbie dolls’ hair and did all my friends’ hair in school. After high school, I went to college and cosmetology school at the same time and got my cosmetology license. Shortly after, I got married and moved to a military town – that’s really where my passion for barbering started. Even though I had just graduated from cosmetology school, I had never picked up a pair of clippers ever. I found a barbershop to work at, and the owner gave me a Wahl Professional Designer clipper and a Wahl Professional Peanut. The rest is history.

At the beginning, it was extremely hard to even have anyone sit in my chair. Not many female barbers cut hair for those of all different races and with all textures, but I was young and eager to learn, so I learned learning to cut men’s hair and all different textures. The owner, Miss Ann, was a Korean female barber who taught me everything I know. I’m so grateful for the opportunity she gave me. At that time, it was $4.00 a haircut and I made 40% of that. I definitely had to learn fast and cut fast. That is where my love of barbering came from and my speed.

After time and A LOT of practice I began to really start a great clientele on the military. Unfortunately, I ended up moving home and that’s when I really had a reality check. I was a white woman that cut all different textured hair, but mainly ethnic hair because it was my favorite to cut. When I looked for a job, I got turned away over and over again. I finally found a barbershop that gave me a chance, but still, no one wanted me to cut their hair. They thought I was an undercover cop or something like that. It took a lot of time and patience, but once I had a few people sit in my chair, I proved my skill.

Eventually I had to leave the barbershop, and I saved all the money I earned to open the first multi-cultural shop in my area. I have been licensed for 32 years now and with Wahl Professional clippers going on 17 years.

I’ve always found joy in continuing my barber education, so I went to all the hair shows I could. I was very fortunate that when I was at the Bronner Bros. Beauty Show, the largest ethnic show in the country, the head of education for Wahl clippers at the time, Isadore Adams, was there working the booth. He gave me the chance of a lifetime – I went on stage at the show and cut a head as a demonstration. I was so nervous to be up there, but when I turned on my Wahl Pro clippers, I instantly relaxed and showed off my skills that I had worked so on for over the years. I would never have thought a pair of Wahl Pro clippers would take me all over the world. I have done international shows and classes, all throughout the U.S. as well. Even working for the most trusted barbering tools company in the world, I still faced doubters who challenged my skillset. I worked even harder to know my Wahl tool knowledge better than anyone else, and I never gave up, which only made me better.

I’ve been so blessed to be a part of the Wahl family. They have supported me and encouraged me throughout my career. Now, I’m a part of the product and development team as well. I absolutely love anything and everything that has to do with Wahl – from the actual products, like my current favorites the 5-Star Vapor™ and the 5 Star A•LIGN Trimmer, to learning how to use them to create new looks and cuts.

This industry is ready for new upcoming female barbers. We have a few new female barbers on our Wahl Education team that are phenomenal. I love to share my story with other aspiring women in the industry, and I always encourage all female barbers to be fearless. Don’t give up! We have an incomparable skillset and presence. I always tell other female barbers the road might not be easy, but it’s so worth it. Every single disappointment will make you stronger and better. The future is bright for female barbers, and I’m so blessed I was able to help pave a little of the way.

Be Great on Purpose with the Envy II Clipper – Kenny Duncan Edition

This limited-edition clipper was created in collaboration with Kenny Duncan, Andis North American Artistic Team Lead and internationally known barber, in celebration of his 20-year anniversary of barbering excellence with Andis.

The inclusive design allows for customization that accommodates both right- and left-hand users with the addition of a left-hand lever in the kit. Featuring original artwork by Chuck Styles, this limited-edition clipper delivers cutting-edge performance wrapped in show-stopping aesthetics.

The blueprint to success is artfully depicted on this limited-edition clipper through hidden nuggets of wisdom relating to the steps that every barber can take in order to achieve greatness.

“Greatness is a reflection of mindset. It’s easy to settle for just being good. I encourage you to know what’s missing for you to be GREAT and curate a plan to obtain that greatness. I encourage each of you to: BE GREAT ON PURPOSE.” – Kenny Duncan

Elevate Your Craft with the Envy II Clipper – Kenny Duncan Edition. Designed by Legends, Built for Excellence.

*This new Envy II Clipper is unlike the previous Andis Envy II Clippers (standard Black and premier Gold editions) because the Kenny Duncan edition only fits with the Master model blade and Master model attachment combs. Learn more about this tool here.

@CuttingThroughTheNoise is proud to announce they will be a podcast partner at HairCon for this year’s event. Hosted by the dynamic duo Stephanie Mason and Hayley Mears, the podcast is known for its no-nonsense, insightful discussions on the ever-evolving hair and beauty industry. Their combined experience in the hair sector, business strategy, marketing, and digital content ensures that their contributions to HairCon will be both invaluable and inspiring.

With an acute understanding of industry challenges and trends, Cutting Through the Noise will provide real-time, thought-provoking conversations with key players in the market. No commercial topic is off-limits, as Stephanie  and Hayley dissect crucial issues such as:

• The impact of current supply chain disruptions
• The latest e-commerce trends and their influence on the beauty market
• The shifting landscape of salon culture and workplace flexibility
• Strategies for brands that launched during economic downturns and those that have successfully navigated market challenges

At HairCon, the podcast will deliver exclusive interviews with top industry leaders, emerging brands, and pioneering entrepreneurs who have adapted and thrived in uncertain times. Attendees can expect in-depth discussions on business-to-business operations, salon sustainability, digital transformation, and education-driven solutions to the industry’s most pressing concerns.

“Our vision is to unite the hairdressing industry through real-time conversations about the economic and business changes shaping our sector,” says Hayley Mears. “HairCon provides the perfect platform for these crucial discussions.”

@CuttingThroughTheNoise aims to empower salon professionals, educators, and business owners with the knowledge they need to stay ahead in this competitive landscape.

GET YOUR TICKETS

Don’t miss out on this groundbreaking partnership and the exclusive content that@CuttingThroughTheNoise will bring to HairCon. Secure your tickets now and be part of the conversations shaping the future of the industry.

For ticket information and event details, visit HairCon.

We are finally out of the January – February slog, thank goodness! With Spring comes so much newness. New trends, new products, and new inspiration. And this issue is jam-packed with newness, from event announcements, our One 2 Watch and entering a new era. And, in this issue, we have our esteemed columnist Vicki Harrison-Smith takes the cover. This issue is one to remember!

EVENTS 

Kicking off this edition, we’re announcing EVO On the Road Newcastle! If previous iterations of EVO On The Road are anything to go by, EVO On The Road is going to be a night to remember. Next, we talk the Fellowship Project Induction, as well as delving into Haircon 2025. We also go into the Matakki Education day 2025!  

IN THE CHAIR 

No shortage of star power in this edition, we have Zanear the Kurd in the chair – where we delve into Zanear’s story, from his beginnings to his stratospheric rise with Wahl. We also talk with the one you need to be watching, Kieran James Martin. We learn about his journey – both where he’s been, and where he plans to go. We also go across the pond and meet the amazing Jess Younan, highlighting true craft and genuine passion for the industry.  

STYLING 

All this before we get into the world of styling with major industry players, BROSH, American Crew, GAMMA+, and Hardgrind. Ollie Foster also pops by, talking all things consultation and education in the barbershop. We also pay a visit to Male Focus, where James Beaumont talks the new frontiers of styling in the male hair space. Alan Beak’s column this month also has a particular style focus.  

INTERIORS 

In the stunning interiors section, we have STAG Barbershop taking centre stage. With STAG’s interior being centred around Takara Belmont chair – they couldn’t go wrong. Also heading across the pond to Buffalo Co., we get inside the US barbershop – before sitting down with Kevin Luchmun, chatting to Simon Shaw and popping by the House of Selected.  

BUSINESS 

In business, we go Behind the Brand at Denman HQ, finding out just how they’ve maintained their icon status all these years. Also tackling sustainability, we chat with the Pillar Hair Collective about how products can make a huge difference to your carbon footprint. We also sit down with our columnist Hayden Cassidy to talk being independent – and how it’s helped her be the most genuine version of herself. All this before delving into tax and finance with Colette Osborne. Marketing is also a huge focus, with marketing conversations with our columnists Graeme Macaskill and Mark Maciver – and a chat with NHBF Top 100 Sid Da Barber.  

SHAVING 

Shaving is also a huge focus in this edition – that’s why we’re paying a visit to the experts. We delve into the full experience with Sharp & Flask, talk luxury shaves with Lovemore and go all in to the traditional Turkish shave with the iconic Jack the Clipper.

The Fellowship for British Hairdressing is delighted to announce the launch of their brand-new platform sharing events – the Fellowship Creative XChange™. These events are an opportunity for creatives to come together to present new ideas and techniques, collaborate with like-minded individuals to build stronger local communities and educational learning HUBS. The Creative XChange™ events will seek to cover all aspects of the hairdressing and barbering industry, from traditional to contemporary techniques in cutting, styling, colour and barbering across all hair types and textures.

The Events will be taking place in Salons, Barber Shops, and Independent Spaces throughout the UK, under licence from and promoted by the Fellowship for British Hairdressing to encourage all professional hairdressers in the local area to come along and take part or just soak up the atmosphere and learn some new techniques it’s where “creativity meets innovation”, right on your doorstep. Ask the questions you’ve always wanted to ask or showcase a technique or a trend that you’ve been perfecting. The Creative XChange™ has something for everyone.

Fellowship Creative XChange™ have been implemented to build up local creative communities and encourage professionals to become members of the Fellowship and to apply for the Fellowship’s Bespoke Education Projects.

Barry Stephens, CEO of the Fellowship, commented: “The launch of the Fellowship Creative XChange™ is a crucial development in the evolution of the hairdressing industry, playing a vital role in the connecting of like-minded industry professionals in cities outside of the capital, whilst also illustrating the benefits of becoming a member of the Fellowship.”

Ashleigh Hodges, the President of Fellowship added: “Hairdressing is one of the most creative professions in the world – and we’re so lucky that have a community of like-minded professionals that want to collaborate with one another and help each other to grow and develop their skills -and the Fellowship Creative XChange™ aims to help doing just that! We hope to build communities of creatives whose passion for the craft align, whilst creating a space for them to come together to present and collaborate on new ideas and techniques.”

To start your Fellowship Journey, we’d love for you to host a Creative XChange™ Event in your Salon, Barber Shop or Independent Space.