IT was all a dream.
Catalyst Barber Co. started off as a dream atop the Mosi-oa-tunya Falls in Livingstone, Zambia. It was there, staring 350 feet down over waters cascading the massive black basalt rock into the Batoka Gorge that owner, Les Washington Jr. had a vision...
It was August 2017 and despite the fact that he was already an established barber in Kansas City, he was on the verge of losing his zest for the profession. So in attempts to rediscover purpose he booked a trip to Zambia, Africa, where he would live for the next 6 weeks off grid. Intentionally immersing himself in an entirely new environment full of beautiful landscapes and hospitable peoples, it wasn't difficult to find inspiration. He contemplated things like, "Who am I?", "What is my purpose?", "How can I be a positive impact on the world?"
Then in the final week of this adventure atop the mystic falls, an epiphany and inner fire was discovered hiding in plain sight the entire time.
All things start small, like a single water drop. The positive impact a barber has on each person through something as simple as a haircut mirrors that drop's potential. The joy both the barber and client find in a good conversation, a funny joke, or thoughtful advice can brighten a person's day, and when one person's day is uplifted, it creates ripples that extend far and wide. The purpose is to intentionally bring about this change in the world, becoming a catalyst for a new reality—a world that is more friendly, enthusiastic, and energetic.
His vision was twofold:
to manifest this newfound inspiration through the infusion of genuine human connection, professionalism, and unparalleled service, all while embracing a contemporary street style.
The second aspect involved creating a logo that would stand as a resolute beacon for all, accurately and simply representing the essence of "Catalyst."
In January 2019, the inaugural Catalyst Barber Co. emerged in a modest yet impactful 2-chair studio. Despite its size, the studio pulsated with a colossal heart, rapidly captivating the attention of potential clients and barbers alike through strategic use of social media, grassroots, and guerilla marketing. Clients discovered a haven for fresh fades, immaculate hairstyles, and indulgent steamy hot towel shaves. Meanwhile, barbers were drawn to an environment that prioritized not only client retention but also the continuous development of barbering skills.
After two years of operating from a modest studio space, Catalyst Barber Co. made significant strides in the Northland and the broader Kansas City area. Recognizing the limitations of their small, inconspicuous studio, the team believed it would soon be time to transition into a more prominent storefront location. At that juncture, Catalyst Barber Co. had evolved into a thriving 4-chair studio, operational seven days a week with seven rotating barbers. They not only offered hair services but also sold custom products and popular sneakers.
The success achieved in their initial compact space convinced them that a storefront would unlock even greater potential. So in August 2021, Catalyst Barber Co. moved to the heart of Gladstone in the Gladstone Village Center.
After three successful years at the Gladstone location, Catalyst Barber Co. experienced remarkable growth in brand popularity. It became a sought-after haven not only for clients looking for an escape from the typical barbershop experience but also for barbers eager to connect with other professionals making their mark in the city.
Recognizing this momentum, owner Les Washington strategically decided to gather these enthusiastic barbers and expand by opening a new location in the vibrant Crossroads District of Kansas City. This move would solidify the brand's presence in the community. With the World Cup just two years away, establishing a location in this bustling area presented an ideal opportunity to build prestige and prepare for the influx of visitors that would accompany the event.
Today, Catalyst Barber Co. proudly boasts three locations. The first, a storefront in Gladstone, serves as their community home, featuring 11 licensed barbers, retail product sales, and Catalyst merchandise. It embodies the owner's envisioned atmosphere—a welcoming space for engaging communal conversations and shared laughter. The second in the heart of downtown in the Crossroads Art District, also home of another 11 talented barbers. It serves as a way to cement Catalyst Barber Co. as a major player in Kansas City and functions as a meeting ground for the whole industry, regularly hosting barbering workshops for other professionals city-wide to attend. The third location is the original studio in North Kansas City, transformed into a private headquarters. Here, clients can enjoy a more intimate, one-on-one setting, savor a complimentary drink from the bar, or catch Les plotting on his next major move.
Catalyst Barber Co. transcends the traditional barbershop role, actively participating in the North Kansas City community through various programs. Initiatives include partnering with Cornerstones of Care to provide services to teens in transitional living, collaborating with the NKC School District Pathways Program for professional mentorship in high schools, and participating in the Park Hill School District AVID program, hosting teenage interns interested in barbering. Throughout its journey, Catalyst Barber Co. has remained true to its founding principles—to be a positive force, not only offering premium hair services but also inspiring everyone within its sphere. The goal is to be the change they seek in the world.
In November 2023, following an extensive nomination and voting process, Catalyst Barber Co. achieved recognition in two categories for the city of Kansas City: Best Barbershop and Best Barber (awarded to the talented Bezhin Barzinji). Then did it again in 2024, winning Best Barbershop Kansas City. Despite their relative youth in the industry, there is a commitment to achieving more in the future...