Stories From the Chair: Cuts and Heritage in a Haircut

On this episode of ReCurrent, Jaime is in the San Fernando Valley of California, exploring cultural heritage through the lens of a community barbershop. His journey also takes him back to his roots, to reconnect with a barber, who houses a bit of Jaime's history at his barber shop.
In this episode of Recurrent, host and producer Jaime Roque delves into the rich cultural heritage of Pacoima's community barbershops, starting with StylesVille Barber Shop and Beauty Salon. Through conversations with Greg Faucett, a second-generation barber, Jaime uncovers how these spaces function as cultural hubs, preserving traditions and fostering deep community bonds. The episode not only explores the history of StylesVille but also reflects on Jaime's own experiences with barbershops, from his high school years to adulthood, emphasizing their role as sanctuaries of history, culture, and personal connection.



The narrative then shifts to Jaime's hometown, where he reconnects with Samuel De Leon, a young barber who continues his late father's legacy in a converted garage barbershop. This segment highlights the personal and emotional ties that barbershops cultivate, with Jaime reminiscing about the deep connections formed in these communal spaces. The episode also features insights from Rita Cofield, an associate project specialist at the Getty, on efforts to preserve cultural landmarks like StylesVille. Through these stories, ReCurrent illustrates the vital role barbershops play in maintaining cultural continuity and supporting community identity.



Special thanks to Greg Faucett, Rita Cofield, and Samuel De Leon



Rights and Clearances by Gina White



Additional music by Splice