Inspiring Conversations with Charles Wade of Chase The Barber

Today we’d like to introduce you to Charles Wade.

Hi Charles, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Well I’m from Cleveland Ohio. Well born there and raised in Canton Ohio. I was a foster child from 2 year old. Grew up primarily in the first home I was placed in. Moved around once or twice if I remember correctly.

Not the best or worst upbringing. Single mom house hold and I was the oldest out of the five adopted children. Four boys one girl. When I was 19 years old, I ended up reconnecting with my biological family. I was told about the history of my family.

Ironically, my great grandfather Henry Cannon was a master barber in Cleveland Ohio. Owned multiple shops and businesses over 40 plus years. A true hustler and businessman to say the least. The reason I say ironically is because without even one visitation growing up I ended up becoming a barber myself. My grandfather whom I was named after Charles Richard Cannon.

He was killed at 23 years old, protecting his younger cousin. But he was a golden glove champion in the marines. Growing up I was always fighting and became very skilled at mixed martial arts. But my heart and passion was with barbering. I started cutting hair at the age of ten.

I began sharpening my skills by 13 or 14 years old. Cutting all my brother’s and cousins hair and kids around the neighborhood. Roaming the streets of canton I remember always wanting to become a successful person. I just wanted to prove to my adoptive mother that I can become something. Whatever that may be.

I used to think of ways to make money growing up. Cutting hair, shoveling snow, raking leaves, cutting grass. My great grandfather hustle was definitely passed down to me. At the age of 26 I moved to California with my wife and kids. Ended up working with a giant in the barber game in Altadena CA.

Darrin Lyons, my first mentor showed me the ropes. My second mentor and big brother still to this day Christopher Larkin showed me what true consistency looks like . My career took off from there. I was able to pursue and purchase my first home. Supported my ex through nursing school and I continued working with Chris to this very day.

I am grateful for the journey through the good, bad and confusing times. I owe it all to Christ my Lord and Savior. To Him be the Glory.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Definitely not a smooth transition but worth every second of difficulty. It shaped me into the man I am today. As I was going to barber school I broke my leg working a warehouse gig while attending school. I also lost my daughter Zariah. She passed while I was in school as well.

Worst pain in my life. But because of my faith I kept going. Pushing myself to the brink, I just knew I couldn’t give up. With the support of my wife at the time we kept grinding. Having my son shortly after the passing of my daughter. I graduated and set my sights on California where my ex wife is from. We went through a lot but I don’t regret or doubt that I am where I’m supposed to be.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
Well barbering is in my blood. From my great grandfather all the way to me. I love what I do and I know I’m extremely gifted at it. I specialize in all hair textures. I am known for keeping anyone as a client from the very first haircut.

I’m very easygoing and read people well. Very inquisitive, learning about my clients each haircut. Remembering details about conversations we’ve had year ago. I believe a barber, well a great one mind you is much more than someone who cuts hair. But sometimes a barber is the only listening ear that person has.

My slogan is, Chase The Barber “Serving People” because that’s exactly what I believe I do serve people. When a client leaves my chair it’s an unforgettable experience.

We’d love to hear about any fond memories you have from when you were growing up?
I remember going to the luau/cookout and seeing this humongous, pig being roasted. The head and everything was still there. But it tasted so good. I just remember all the fun I had with all my family and friends. It was a blast and a beautiful experience. The weather and everything was perfect that day.

Pricing:

• Haircut $60
• Haircut and beard trim $75
• Kids 12 and under $45
• House call starting @ $200

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @chasethebarber1
• Yelp: Chase The Barber
• Other: TikTok @chasethebarber1

Image Credits
@Inniscaseyphotography