Meet Marisa Johnson | Fresh Barbershop CEO

We had the good fortune of connecting with Marisa Johnson and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Marisa, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
Starting my own business as a barbershop owner was deeply inspired by watching my father. He was self-employed, and I saw firsthand how that gave him the freedom to spend quality time with me growing up. That left a lasting impression. It showed me that work didn’t have to mean sacrificing presence or connection. It could actually create space for both. When I became a parent myself, I knew I wanted to do the same for my son to be present, to lead by example, and to show him that it’s possible to build something of your own and still be there for the people who matter most.

When I opened my barbershop, I knew I wanted to build more than just a place for haircuts. I wanted to create an experience a space that honored the old school barbershop tradition, with its sense of community, trust, and familiarity, while also embracing the clean lines and modern feel of today’s styles and culture. It’s a blend of vintage and contemporary, of timeless conversation and fresh perspective.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
When I first stepped into the world of barbering, I knew I was walking into a male dominated space. I felt it. I saw it. And I won’t lie there were moments I was intimidated. Holding clippers for the first time, learning how to perfect a fade, and earning respect in a shop full of seasoned barbers wasn’t easy. I questioned myself more than once. Would clients take me seriously? Could I keep up? Would I ever master this craft the way I dreamed of?

But I kept showing up. I practiced relentlessly. I studied every detail of a fade until it became second nature. I put in the hours, and then some. And slowly, the intimidation faded and the confidence took its place.

I love barbering and the art behind it. I love the precision of a clean fade, the transformation in the chair, and the conversations that come with it. There’s something powerful about creating sharp looks with your hands and building trust with every client who sits down. I’ve learned that skill has no gender and passion doesn’t care about stereotypes.

Being a female barber isn’t a limitation. It’s a strength. It’s a different kind of presence, a different kind of connection. And I’m proud to be part of the next wave of barbers who are breaking molds, mastering fades, and doing it all with style, grace, and grit.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Start your trip at Red Rocks Amphitheatre—hike or catch a concert with stunning mountain views. Then explore the creative RiNo Art District with its street art and breweries.

Catch a Denver Broncos game at Empower Field or see the Denver Nuggets in action at Ball Arena for an authentic local sports experience. Afterward, unwind at Union Station with great food and drinks.

For nightlife, hit rooftop cocktails at El Five, craft drinks at Death & Co, live music at Larimer Lounge, and classic vibes at The Cruise Room. When hunger strikes late, grab wild-game hot dogs at Biker Jim’s or giant biscuit sandwiches at Denver Biscuit Company.

Finish your visit with a relaxing stroll through City Park or along the Cherry Creek Trail, soaking in Denver’s natural beauty before you go.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
This journey wouldn’t be what it is without two of the most important men in my life. My grandfather, Juan Melendez, and my son, Antonio.

To my grandfather, Juan Melendez: your legacy lives in every part of this barbershop. You were the hardest working man I’ve ever known, relentless, selfless, and full of love for your family. Your work ethic, your pride, and your quiet strength taught me what it means to grind with purpose and give without limits. I carry your spirit with me in every early morning and every late night, every fresh cut, and every connection made in this chair. Thank you for laying the foundation.

To my son, Antonio: you are my why. You are the fire behind every long day, every goal crushed, and every moment I pushed through when I felt like quitting. I wanted to show you what it means to chase something real and build something of your own. I did this to make you proud and to make sure you always have more than I did. You didn’t just motivate me you moved me. I’ll never stop striving to give you the world.

This barbershop is more than a business. It’s a reflection of where I come from, who I do this for, and the love that built it.

Website: https://Freshbarberdenver.com

Instagram: Fresh_Barbershop_Denver