Sebastian Jackson launched The Social Club Grooming Co. in 2012 on the campus of Wayne State University. In addition to classic grooming services, The Social Club uses the barbershop as a platform to connect people through a monthly “ShopTalk” series, a barbershop-style TED Talk. People of interest serve as panelists while getting a haircut. Panelists have included Grammy award-winning artists, NFL players, venture capitalists and startups.
In addition to community engagement, The Social Club recycles the byproducts of its haircuts to help with urban reforestation. All of the hair clippings collected are used as a nitrogen source in compost. Every 12 pounds of hair collected provides enough nitrogen to help sustain the growth of 10 saplings annually.
Most recently, The Social Club was recognized as part of two documentaries on PBS and CNN featuring innovative startups throughout the country. Jackson has also been a guest lecturer at Harvard Business School.