Profiles from the Pack: Jason Boatright

Jason Boatright, a 2016 graduate of Madison College's cosmetology program, discovered his passion for cutting hair as a teenager. After a less-than-stellar haircut he gave himself, Jason practiced and improved, eventually becoming skilled enough to cut the hair of his nine brothers.  Realizing his talent, Jason got serious about his craft as a profession and enrolled in Madison College. In 2021, he opened B. Right Barbershop in Sun Prairie, inspiring clients with exceptional haircuts while creating a welcoming atmosphere.

How did it feel graduating from Madison College? 
I was the first person in my family to get a college degree, so it was a major accomplishment to walk across that stage, with my mom and dad there. People back home saw what I accomplished, and they started their businesses, telling me that I was the reason they were doing that. That makes me think that people are watching me, being motivated by me, even if I didn’t realize it. 

What sparked the idea of B. Right Barbershop? 
Barbershops are part of the community; that’s what it was like when I was growing up. Whatever you needed, you could go to the barbershop. I want people to feel at home here; everyone is welcome to come in, get a great cut, and have fun. When you have a business in a community, you don’t want people to think you just want their money; you want them to understand that you want to be part of the community. I have regulars who come in, and now their kids are coming in; that's a beautiful thing to see, but it makes me feel old (laugh).

What’s your business success philosophy?
As a barber, I think about what my customers want in a haircut; I never go in thinking about what I want for them. I can offer suggestions and let them know what might look better, and that’s why clients like me. I also make sure that people who sit in my chair can't find a better haircut anywhere else. I think if you can master that, I promise that you will have repeat customers.

Madison College Cosmetology Director Melissa Brainerd remembers your famous quote: “We’ve got this,” as you supported your fellow students. Since then, you’ve returned to the college to share your expertise, speak at local entrepreneur events, and mentor high school students through the "We Believe" program. What keeps you motivated to give back and stay engaged?
I close my eyes and think about my past--my family and I were poor. Sometimes I get up at 5:30 a.m. and I don't want to cut nobody's hair, but I realize that I've been blessed to be in this situation, and I don't get too comfortable. You have to stay hungry and keep going,  continually achieving more. One of my daughters, who is 10 years old, tells me that if anything happens, she will take care of the shop, so that keeps me going, knowing that she wants to follow me in the business.

What are super skills?
I am very keen on paying attention to detail, that is why my clients don't go anywhere else. I'm also pretty fun. Sometimes we go through hard times and need to laugh. I make people feel better, make them laugh, and take their minds off things for a while.

What advice do you have for Madison College students?
When I first started the barbershop, people didn't see it; they told me that I didn't have the money, and they couldn't see my vision for the barbershop space. I had to cut off that negativity and not let them kill my dreams. I would tell students: Don't let people steer you off your path and passion; instead, keep positive and motivating people in your circle.