Today we’d like to introduce you to Morris Smith.
Morris, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I am Morris Smith, aka “Mo.” I’m commonly known for the work I do as a barber, but I am also a Serial Entrepreneur, Real Estate Agent, and Investor. Born in Montgomery, AL. I grew up in a single-parent home with my mom and two sisters. We lived in Ridgecrest, which in our city is considered the HOOD. It seemed that all odds were against me, so I moved to Atlanta, GA, for a chance at a better life. I went on to finish high school at Lakeside.
After completing high school, I went back to Alabama to continue my education at Stillman College. This is where I discovered my passion for barbering and entrepreneurship. I graduated with a degree in Business Administration and opened my first Barbershop at the tender age of 22! Shortly after, I pursued my real estate license. During this time, I explored different facets of business, such as opening a bar and grill and other Barbershops. I even tried a Cash Advance Store! Today, I currently own ten investment properties.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
I had many obstacles in the early years of my journey. All of which I would say were learning experiences that helped me be successful today. When I decided to become a real estate agent in 2006, I actually failed the Real Estate Exam TWICE! I didn’t give up because I saw the potential income it would bring me and I also really loved the industry, so I kept studying. I passed the test on the third attempt and the rest was history.
In 2007, I partnered with other entrepreneurs and opened a Cash Advance Store. Loaning Money is a tough business and requires lots of capital. I decided this was not my path.
In 2008, I partnered with two people and opened a Bar & Grill. The first mistake was putting up my own personal funds for the business, knowing what I know now, I wouldn’t have used personal capital. Additionally, there are maybe risks involved with hospitality. Overhead costs are significantly high, which makes profit-margin low. Serving food and alcohol opens the door for many customer issues, including violence. I could talk about this experience for days. However, I got out of this business when an innocent person was killed.
In 2011, I opened multiple barbershops in different locations. Managing three barbershops was quite a challenge. I quickly realized that the revenue I was bringing in did not equate to the time and effort it took to keep operations flowing smoothly. Once all expenses were covered, it was not worth it to keep all three locations going; so, I downsized, back to one barbershop.
Please tell us about Beyond The Clippers.
“Beyond The Clippers” is a personal brand and service that I created to motivate, inspire and teach individuals how to gain financial freedom through Real Estate and Entrepreneurship. My goal is to provide services, resources and an outlet for my generation through my expertise and experience. I offer Consulting, Project Management and Property Locating services. I am known for being a barber, who is a Real Estate Investor. My following increased through social media platforms when I began to provide free resources through my YouTube channel “Beyond The Clippers” that teaches others how they can invest in Real Estate.
I am most proud of the responses I receive from people who want to learn how to gain passive income, whether they are barbers, agents, or just working individuals. This has opened the door for my business as well as helped people achieve their goals by purchasing their first investment property with my help.
Hunger, desire, dedication and the ability to accept “NO” sets me apart from others. Additionally, I believe in assisting people with a very hands-on approach to ensure they are capable of moving forward on their own. I know what it’s like to struggle. I grew up in the struggle and that keeps me fueled up to continue to share my resources with my generation! I didn’t come from money. My mom worked three jobs just to keep a roof on our heads and food on the table. It is important for me to be financially free and I want to help others break the cycle of poverty. I am a prime example of defeating the odds.
Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
My mom always supports everything I do. I remember when she uses to take me around to cut grass with the lawn equipment in the trunk of the car. She really really motivated me. My oldest sister was always there, as well. She has supported me throughout my different business ventures. My Grandfather Charles Smith. Who was A civil right activist and farmer and My Grandmother, who always encouraged me to save my money. My uncle who helped me build out my first barbershop. My entire family as a whole.
Contact Info:
- Website: beyondtheclippers.com
- Email: beyondtheclippers2019@gmail.com
- Instagram: beyondtheclippers_
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/beyondtheclippers
- Other: beyondtheclippers/youtube
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