We recently connected with Syrae Spina and have shared our conversation below.

Syrae, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today One of our favorite things to brainstorm about with friends who’ve built something entrepreneurial is what they would do differently if they were to start over today. Surely, there are things you’ve learned that would allow you to do it over faster, more efficiently. We’d love to hear how you would go about setting things up if you were starting over today, knowing everything that you already know

If I were to start my career anew, I would begin by refining my skill set and then concentrate on the hospitality elements of the industry that elevate the overall client experience.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

At my barbershop, I provide a range of services including precision haircuts, beard grooming, scalp treatments, and facial services tailored to meet each client’s individual needs. My goal is to not just provide a service but to create an experience that leaves clients feeling confident and satisfied. I believe that every haircut is an opportunity to enhance a person’s style and self-expression.

What sets me apart is my dedication to continuous learning and adaptation in this ever-evolving industry. I stay updated with the latest trends and techniques to ensure that my clients receive the best possible service. My approach is personalized; I take the time to understand my clients’ preferences and lifestyle, ensuring that the final look complements their unique identity.

I’m particularly proud of my journey from practicing on my own head at twelve to being recognized at top hair shows, which speaks to my commitment and passion for this craft. It’s incredibly rewarding to witness the joy and confidence my work brings to my clients.

As I continue to grow my brand, I want potential clients and followers to know that I am not just a barber, but a passionate artist who truly cares about their experience. My mission is to foster a welcoming and inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and inspired. I am excited to share my journey and connect with others who appreciate the artistry and skill that barbering entails. Thank you for allowing me to share my story!

Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?

One of the defining moments of my journey as a barber came in 2020, during a Christmas party when I found myself struggling with a hurt wrist and a swollen hand. It was so painful that I couldn’t even cut my steak; I had to ask someone to do it for me. That was a wake-up call. The next day, I ended up at urgent care, receiving a steroid shot and a stern lecture from the nurse about the implications of ignoring my condition.

Determined to regain my strength and continue doing what I love, I immediately scheduled an appointment with an orthopedic doctor. After being diagnosed with carpal tunnel syndrome, I fought hard for my recovery. I fought against surgery, but I also pushed for physical therapy, knowing that I needed to explore all avenues to maintain my passion for barbering.

The hardest part was learning how to barber with my left hand while coping with the pain in my right hand and wrist. I had to force myself to adapt, practicing tirelessly and going to therapy multiple times a week. This process required me to cut back on my schedule, as I could no longer take on as many clients. The thought of possibly having to give up my career, something I was so passionate about, weighed heavily on me.

Through sheer resilience and determination, I kept pushing forward. I reminded myself of why I became a barber in the first place—the joy of helping others feel confident and the artistry involved in every haircut. Eventually, with lots of rest and dedicated physical therapy, my wrist began to feel better.

This experience taught me not only about my physical limits but also about my mental strength. It reinforced my belief that resilience is key in this industry, and I emerged from this challenge even more committed to my craft. I now appreciate every moment I spend with my clients even more, knowing how close I came to losing something I love dearly.

How did you build your audience on social media?

Building my audience on social media has been an exciting journey that began with my long-standing interest in cameras and visuals. I always believed in the power of storytelling through visuals, so I decided to channel that passion into creating content that could resonate with others. I taught myself how to craft visual stories that not only showcased my work as a barber but also captured the essence of the experiences I wanted to share.

As I started posting, I noticed that adding voiceovers to my videos made a significant impact. People responded positively to my storytelling style, complimenting my ability to convey messages and connect with my audience. This feedback encouraged me to lean into that aspect of my content. I began to experiment with different twists, whether it was sharing knowledge about barbering techniques or changing my voice to add a personal touch.

My main focus was on being relatable and interesting to the audience I wanted to attract. I realized that it wasn’t just about showcasing my skills but also about creating an engaging narrative that people could connect with. By sharing tips, insights, and personal anecdotes, I was able to foster a sense of community around my brand.

For anyone just starting to build their social media presence, my advice would be to stay true to your passions and interests. Find what excites you and share that with the world. Don’t be afraid to experiment—try different formats and styles until you find what resonates with your audience. Engagement is key, so listen to your followers’ feedback and adapt your content accordingly.

Remember, authenticity shines through, and people are drawn to genuine stories. Embrace your unique voice, and don’t hesitate to share your journey, challenges, and victories. Building an audience takes time and consistency, but with dedication and creativity, you can create a community that truly values what you bring to the table.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @osmosiscombs
• Facebook: @osmosiscombs
• Other: TikTok @ osmosiscombs

Image Credits

SyRae Spina