Today we’d like to introduce you to Richard Ruiz
Hi Richard, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
A Journey of Hustle, Passion, and Family: The Life Story of Richard Ruiz
Born in Queens, New York, to Dominican parents, Richard’s life has always been defined by hustle, determination, and a deep passion for the things he loves. From a young age, he was taught the value of hard work and perseverance, qualities that would shape his journey in both his career and personal life.
At just seven years old, Richard and his family made a bold move from the vibrant streets of Queens to the sunny shores of Miami, Florida. This relocation marked the beginning of a new chapter in his life, one that would see him develop into a self-made entrepreneur, father, and a cornerstone of his community.
The Early Years: Discovering Passions and Skills
It wasn’t long before Richard found his niche. At the age of 12, he picked up two skills that would stay with him throughout his life: DJing and cutting hair. Both of these passions became more than just hobbies; they turned into lifelong careers. Self-taught in both fields, Richard quickly became known among friends and family for his skills behind the turntables and clippers. Little did he know, these seemingly small talents would blossom into major career avenues.
His interest in DJing grew rapidly, and by the time he turned 16, he was a professional DJ, booking private house parties, weddings, and sweet fifteens/sixteens. But it wasn’t just the music that fueled his drive; it was the opportunity to connect with people, to be a part of their celebrations, and to leave a lasting impression.
Simultaneously, his barbering skills flourished. At 16, he began working in a local Miami barber shop, where he honed his craft. A natural when it came to making people feel good about themselves, Richard quickly realized that barbering was more than just cutting hair. It was about community, connection, and being a part of people’s stories. This passion for his work laid the foundation for a successful career that would span decades.
Education, Family, and Entrepreneurship
Despite his early successes, Richard chose to continue his education and enrolled in college to study computer engineering. However, life had other plans. When he found out he was going to be a father for the first time, Richard made the difficult decision to drop out of college after two years, putting family first. His entrepreneurial spirit had already been ignited, and he was determined to provide for his growing family.
By 18, Richard had already been working at a barber shop for a few years and began to develop his network, building lasting relationships with clients, fellow barbers, and others in the community. This hustle mentality would eventually lead him to make even bigger moves in both the barbering and music industries.
The Move to Woodstock: A New Chapter
In 2014 at the age of 26 and a father to 4 children, Richard made another bold move—this time with his family to Woodstock, Georgia. Starting over in a new city was a challenge, but it was one he was ready for. He brought with him the lessons learned from his Miami years, knowing that hard work and perseverance would be essential to his success.
The Dream Realized: Ol’ Time Barber Shop
By 2018, Richard had achieved a milestone many only dream of. He opened the doors to Ol’ Time Barber Shop, his very own business. Located in Woodstock, GA, the shop quickly gained popularity, not only for its excellent cuts but also for the genuine connections forged within its walls. Ol’ Time Barber Shop became a staple in the community, a place where people could go for more than just a fresh haircut but for camaraderie and support.
The shop’s success was a testament to Richard’s commitment to quality, service, and his desire to be more than just a barber. He wasn’t just cutting hair; he was shaping lives, offering advice, and becoming a trusted figure in the lives of his clients.
Fatherhood, Family, and Hobbies
As the years passed, Richard embraced his role as a father to six beautiful children—five boys and one girl—with his loving wife, Jerrica Ruiz. Family has always been at the heart of his story, providing both motivation and inspiration as he worked tirelessly to build a better future for them.
Outside of his professional endeavors, Richard is an avid enthusiast of cars, music, and videography/photography. His love for music extends beyond DJing, as he is also a part of the music industry, serving as the manager for Latin rapper Kid G(Gabriel Torres). Under the professional name DJ Intento, he continues to make waves in the music scene, merging his passions for both music and business.
A Legacy of Hustle, Passion, and Dedication
Looking back on his life, Richard’s story is one of constant growth, reinvention, and unwavering commitment to his passions. Whether it’s DJing, barbering, investing, or supporting his family, he has proven time and again that with hard work and perseverance, dreams can be realized. His success is not only measured in the businesses he’s built but in the relationships he’s fostered and the lives he’s touched along the way.
Through his work, his music, and his family, Richard continues to leave a lasting impact on those around him, building a legacy of hustle, passion, and dedication that will inspire generations to come.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Nothing in life is easy, but on the same breath it is not difficult. The most challenging thing as an entrepreneur and father is balancing time between family and business.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
We are an Ol’ School Men’s Barber Shop founded in 2018 and located in Woodstock, GA. We specialize in traditional and modern haircuts/styles. We are composed of a team of 5 highly skilled Master Barbers who are passionate not only about the craft but also the culture. Our barber shop resembles a true old fashion barber shop where men can be men. We believe that what happens at the barber shop, stays at the barber shop. We take pride in building deep relationships with our clients, to us clients are like family rather than just another customer. We stand behind our brand as our main goal is QUALITY over QUANTITY. Ol’ Time Barber Shop has been recognized as Best Barber Shop of the year multiple times by local magazines.
Can you share something surprising about yourself?
I started Djing at 12 years old. Music is a big part of my life, I enjoy making people feel good and showing them a good time.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.oltimebarbershop.com
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/oltimebarbershop
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/oltimebarbershop
- Other: https://www.kidgmusic.com
