We recently connected with Ta’Marvis Thompson and have shared our conversation below.

Ta’Marvis, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. What’s the backstory behind how you came up with the idea for your business?

I’ve always had a deep love for the craft, art, and community of barbering. For me, it’s more than just a profession it’s about making a positive impact on people’s lives. A simple conversation, a fresh cut, and a genuine interaction can change the direction of someone’s day. My motto has always been, “Impact The World With Greatness”, and that’s exactly what I strive to do with every cut.

What I love most about barbering is its power to create connections. The barbershop has always been a place where people gather—not just for a haircut, but for life lessons, great conversations, and shared experiences. It’s a space where you learn, laugh, and listen. Growing up, I was always fascinated by the way people would come in every week not just for the cut, but for the social time. My grandfather, a barber himself, greeted everyone with such warmth and energy his Kool-Aid smile was a beacon of positivity. I watched how he made people feel like family, and that’s the energy I want to bring to the chair.

As a second-generation barber, I’m committed to building on the foundation my grandfather laid. I want to take the family business to new heights—expand, franchise, and create generational wealth. My goal is to build a legacy that will last far beyond my lifetime, making a name for myself and my family in the barbering world. I want to be recognized not just locally, but globally as a leader in the industry “world renowned.”

Barbering has always intrigued me, and in hindsight, I wish I had pursued it straight out of high school instead of chasing my NFL dreams. Despite several setbacks like conflicting schedules that kept me from attending barbering school, or the pandemic that shut down my last opportunity I never lost sight of my goal. In fact, each obstacle only strengthened my determination. I’m thrilled that the Flint location of the school is now open because it marks the beginning of my long-awaited journey.

I’m ready to be part of the barber community, to hone my skills, and to become one of the best barbers to come out of this city, state, and beyond. The road may have been long, but I’m finally here, and I’m ready to race towards my dreams.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

I’m someone who deeply believes in the power of barbering not just as a profession, but as a way of creating connections, making an impact, and building community. I’ve been passionate about this craft since I was young, and my journey into barbering started with a simple desire to help people feel good about themselves. Watching my grandfather, a barber himself, engage with clients and make them feel like family inspired me to pursue this path. His energy, positivity, and ability to connect with people was something I admired, and I’ve always aspired to carry that same warmth into my work.

I’m a second-generation barber, and my goal is to honor the legacy my grandfather built while taking the family business to new heights. I’m not just focused on perfecting the art of cutting hair; I want to expand, create generational wealth, and eventually build a brand that’s recognized globally. I’ve always said, “Impact The World With Greatness,” and that’s the driving force behind everything I do. Every cut, every conversation, every interaction is a chance to make a positive impact on someone’s life.

I’m passionate about creating a space where people don’t just come for a haircut but for an experience one that’s about connection, learning, and growing together. I’ve always been inspired by the way barbershops bring people together for meaningful interactions. Whether it’s life lessons, great conversations, or simply a moment to unwind, it’s the energy of the barbershop that makes it unique. I want to take that energy and elevate it, bringing a modern, inclusive, and welcoming experience to every client who sits in my chair.

While I initially pursued a career in the NFL, I realized that barbering was my true calling. Despite setbacks, like scheduling conflicts and the pandemic disrupting my plans, I never lost sight of my dream. Now, with a brand new school location in Flint, I’m excited to begin my official journey in the barbering world, and I’m committed to becoming one of the best in the industry. I believe that every challenge I faced has only strengthened my determination and drive.

Beyond the chair, I have big dreams. I want to build Master Marv’s Enterprises into a Fortune 500 company that encompasses not just barbering but also health and wellness, education, real estate, and more. I envision a global presence, offering a variety of products and services, including my luxury brand, Club Wealthy, and my nonprofit organization, the Ta’Marvis Thompson Wonders of Youth Foundation. Through this foundation, I plan to give back to communities by providing educational opportunities, career training in trades, and life skills to help youth thrive.

I also want to be a content creator, using platforms like YouTube and Instagram to share my journey, inspire others, and grow my business in the modern age. I’m passionate about sharing my story and the lessons I’ve learned along the way, whether it’s about business, creativity, or personal growth.

In my free time, I live life to the fullest traveling, staying active, and enjoying time with my children. My family means everything to me, and they motivate me every day to work hard and chase my dreams. I also love to stay competitive, whether it’s through sports, games, or simply finding ways to build wealth and improve financially. My friends and family know me as “Money Marv,” always looking for opportunities to grow and connect.

Ultimately, I’m driven by a desire to leave a lasting legacy not just in the world of barbering, but in everything I do. Whether it’s through my work, my foundation, or my business ventures, I want to make a meaningful impact and inspire others to do the same. I’m not just building a business; I’m building a life dedicated to greatness. The goal is to be the Blue Collar Billionaire(BCB)!

Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?

Absolutely! One of the most defining moments of my journey, which really illustrates my resilience, is the way I’ve managed to balance being a third-shift worker, a full-time student, a parent, and still make time to build my business. People often ask me, “When do you sleep?” or “How do you push through the exhaustion?” And the answer is simple my desire and determination to achieve greatness are what keep me going.

I know what I’m building a legacy, an empire, and a future where I can truly make an impact. It’s not just about the money it’s about becoming one of the greats, even legendary, in the business world and within the barber and beauty industry. So, for me, there are no excuses and no days off. I am committed to putting in the work even when others are resting because I know that to achieve something truly remarkable, I have to make sacrifices and push myself mentally and physically beyond what most would consider comfortable.

I’m not here to just clock in and out for a paycheck I’m here to build something that will leave a lasting mark. When you have a true passion for something, it doesn’t feel like work; it becomes a lifestyle. Achieving greatness is what fuels me, and every challenge is just another opportunity to prove my resilience.

The time is now, and I’m fully focused on executing my vision.

What do you think helped you build your reputation within your market?

“I believe what has helped me build my reputation within the market is my ability to foster strong communication and genuine relationships with my clients. In many ways, I’m like an underpaid therapist I listen to their needs, offer advice, and create a space where they feel comfortable. I take pride in being able to talk about almost anything, and 9 out of 10 times, our conversations end on a positive and inspirational note.

I also ensure that every client feels at ease and relaxed during their experience with me. My goal is for them to leave feeling better than when they arrived not just in terms of the service, but also emotionally fulfilled and happy. I make a conscious effort to treat each client with the same respect and warmth, ensuring no one feels less important than the other. This combination of excellent service, deep knowledge, and a welcoming atmosphere keeps clients coming back, often returning just for the positive energy and meaningful conversations.”

Contact Info:

• Instagram: Bugatti_Dreams_810
• Facebook: MoneyMarv Masters
• Linkedin: Ta’Marvis Thompson
• Youtube: MoneyMarvTB

Image Credits

April McCarville