Today we’d like to introduce you to Jorge Rivera.
Hi Jorge, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
My journey began 14 years ago when I first picked up a pair of clippers. I instantly fell in love with the craft of barbering. It wasn’t just about cutting hair—it was about connection, confidence, and creating a sense of identity for every person who sat in my chair.
I started from the ground up, self-taught at first, and fueled by a deep passion to master the art. Over time, I refined my skills, learned from every cut, and never stopped pushing myself to grow. I’ve worked in all kinds of environments, from humble beginnings to opening my own barbershops.
Today, I’m the proud owner and CEO of Classic Man Cuts, and CMC Grooming. I’ve built brands that reflect my style—sharp, clean, and professional—with a signature logo that speaks to elegance and tradition: a man in a tuxedo, bow tie, and side profile. My brand colors—black, white, silver, and gold—represent timeless excellence.
Barbering has opened doors I never imagined. I was appointed by Governor Ron DeSantis to serve on the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) board, where I focus on reforming the system—specifically working toward detaching barbering education from the Department of Education (DOE). Too many aspiring barbers are being taken advantage of through overpriced programs that don’t offer real value. I’m pushing for affordable, hands-on alternatives like apprenticeships and private certifications that truly prepare barbers for the real world.
I’m also expanding into media with a barbershop podcast, where we explore everything from the history of the trade to current challenges, tools, client relationships, and life in the shop. The barbershop has always been a place where all walks of life intersect—my goal is to give that experience a voice.
This journey has been about far more than hair. It’s been about purpose, people, and creating a legacy. I’m not done yet—I’m still reaching for more, learning every day, and hoping to continue making an impact on the industry and the lives within it.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Definitely not. My path has been filled with struggles—some personal, some systemic—but all of them pushed me to fight harder for what I believe in.
One of the biggest challenges I faced early on was the education system. When I first signed up for barber school, I was full of hope and ready to invest in my future. But like many schools out there, they sold me a course they had no real idea how to teach. They didn’t hire qualified staff, didn’t offer any structure, and left me without the tools or knowledge I needed. I gave them everything I had—all my money gone, and in return, I got no real education and no clear path forward.
So I started from zero. No money. No proper training. Just clippers and desperation. To make it worse, the DBPR granted me a license without even knowing whether I was truly qualified, and the DOE? They didn’t care. Both agencies got paid, and I got screwed—just like thousands of barbers across the country who go through the same broken system. That experience nearly broke me. It made my life a living hell at times and put a real stain on how the barbering industry is viewed.
That’s exactly why I’m so passionate about the work I’m doing now. I’ve lived the consequences of a failed system. I’ve seen how it turns away talent, damages lives, and diminishes the respect for our trade. But instead of giving up, I decided to be the one who helps change it.
Every struggle—whether it was working long hours just to keep the lights on, trying to build a brand from scratch, or carrying the weight of being misunderstood—made me tougher, more focused, and more determined to create something better for the next generation of barbers.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I lead Classic Man Cuts, and CMC Grooming—brands that have become synonymous with precision, quality, and a commitment to revitalizing the barbering industry. Our work goes beyond just cutting hair; we stand for authenticity, skilled craftsmanship, and a deep respect for our trade.
I’ve dedicated myself to overhauling a system that’s long taken advantage of barbers. I’ve traveled to 48 continental states gathering critical data, and I’ve forged a strategic alliance with NABBA. My mission is clear: to expose and end failing education programs, scams, and unfair practices—especially those big franchise companies using small business competitions as a guise.
What sets us apart is our forward-thinking vision. I’m not content with the status quo. I’m relentlessly pushing for a transformation in the industry—one where apprenticeships, real-world training, and true merit define success. I want every reader to know that our brand is built on integrity, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to change. I won’t rest until the barbering industry is restored to its rightful place of respect and opportunity.
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
Networking and finding a mentor have been essential in shaping my journey. Early on, I realized that genuine connections come from being authentic and persistent. Here are a few tips that have worked for me:
• Be Authentic: Share your story, including your struggles and successes. When you’re honest about your journey, you attract mentors and peers who resonate with your mission.
• Engage in the Community: Attend industry events, join local and national barber associations, and participate in online forums. My alliance with NABBA and networking across 48 states have opened doors I never imagined.
• Offer Value: A great network isn’t just about receiving advice—it’s about giving back. When you help others, you build trust and establish yourself as a reliable and resourceful part of the community.
• Seek Out Leaders: Look for individuals who inspire you, whether they’re established professionals or emerging voices in the industry. I reached out to those who had paved the way, and their guidance was invaluable.
• Stay Persistent: Building a network and finding the right mentor takes time. Keep showing up, stay curious, and never be afraid to ask questions.
These approaches have not only helped me grow professionally but also fueled my drive to overhaul a broken system and restore the integrity of our industry.
Pricing:
- Haircut $60
- Haircut and Beard Shaping and or shave $120
- Minor Surgery $175
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Classicmancuts.com
- Instagram: Classic_Man_Cuts
- Youtube: CMCGroomingProducts
