Today we’d like to introduce you to Chase Johnsen.
Hi Chase, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I worked in the hospitality industry for many years in Los Angeles, however after processing the pandemic and eventually burning out from all the late bartending nights, I suffered an accidental overdose…
Shaking off and barely surviving that unique experience I decided to change careers and move back home to San Diego. Through the support of my family and some student loans-I was able to go to the Paul Mitchell hair school and get my California Barber license in 2022. From there, I worked in multiple barbershops throughout San Diego County, which was quite a ride and taught me a lot on what to do and what not to do; to run my own shop.
(Lesson: Barbershops should be owned and operated by Barbers not corporations).
In the summer of 2024, I was given an opportunity to establish my own *humble* one chair shop in the Crown Point Neighborhood of Pacific Beach. Within building my clientele base, I have relied on word of mouth and street marketing—flyers and signs to grow. On this journey I have made many new friends and clients in a small radius which has in turn build a community around Freebird Barbershop. Where my motto is: no fuss, clean cuts.
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?
The biggest obstacle in my journey was simply not conforming to the traditional barber style of cutting. Most barbershops pride themselves on spread fades down to skin. in other words, a high fade or a modern fade which starts higher on the temples, creating a wider band of short hair and a more dramatic contrast between the sides and the top (Generally requires more maintenance as this fade grows out quickly). I pride myself and consult my clients to lean to a more natural look, detailed with shears instead of trimmers. You could this chalk this up as style preference although most of those PB barbershops will just cut your hair that way weather you ask them to or not..
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I studied hair theory and design at Paul Mitchell School, where I developed a strong foundation in creating layered, natural-looking haircuts. My clients appreciate the comfortable, private atmosphere of my barbershop—complete with great music and retro decor.
What really sets me apart is my ability to truly listen. I help clients articulate what they want, guiding them through the haircut process if they’re unsure. After the cut, I offer personalized styling tips and recommend products that suit their hair type and lifestyle.
Thanks to years of bartending, I know how to connect with people. Conversations in my chair are always engaging and easygoing, which makes every visit feel relaxed and enjoyable. All of this is reflected in the five-star reviews I consistently receive on Google.
What has been the most important lesson you’ve learned along your journey?
Your work and your clients will always look better if you just slow down, a relaxed mind is more thoughtful and creative.
Pricing:
- $35 for first time clients
- $40 for return clients
- $55 for long hair clients and skin fades
- $30 for buzz cuts
- + $10 beard grooming
Contact Info:
- Website: https://freebirdbarbershop.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freebirdbarbershop/
- Other: https://g.co/kgs/ccS14GL
