A Cut Above: The Story of Luis Ramos

1 minute read

While getting my haircut from Luis Ramos, a 23-year-old barber in San Bernardino, CA, we struck up a meaningful conversation about life.

While getting my haircut from Luis Ramos, a 23-year-old barber in San Bernardino, CA, we struck up a meaningful conversation about life. San Bernardino is a city with its own unique beauty and challenges, particularly around economic struggles and public safety. Luis shared his powerful story—a journey of hardship, resilience, and transformation.

Growing up, Luis experienced depression and isolation, making his childhood incredibly tough. To support himself, he worked grueling 60+ hour weeks doing upholstery. Afterward, he would play with his band late into the night. However, the lifestyle of partying, drinking, and drugs soon consumed him. It led to multiple near-death experiences, including five seizures. One harrowing incident almost cost someone else their life. Unable to bear the guilt, Luis turned himself in, which spared him legal repercussions. But the price he paid was far from light.

“Deep down, I knew I was a good person,” Luis reflected, “but something needed to change.” That “something” was himself.

Determined to turn his life around, Luis quit drugs and embraced the gym as a new outlet. He found a passion for barbering and enrolled in barber school not only to perfect his craft but to connect with people and build a supportive community. Today, Luis is dedicated to becoming the best version of himself and helping others who sit in his chair navigate their own journeys.

Moved by our conversation, Luis graciously gave me a book he credits with helping change his life, and even cut my hair for free. His only request? “Pay it forward.”

If you’re ever in the San Bernardino area, I highly recommend hitting up Luis for a cut. You can find him at @Barber_LuisRamos not just for a fresh look but for an inspiring conversation that might just leave you better than you came.