%20copy.png)
Barbershop Talk Presents: Barber Connect 2025 was a purpose-driven conference centered on advancing men’s health by using trusted male spaces to spark real, transformative conversations. The event brought together barbers, community leaders, health professionals, and advocates to address physical health, mental wellness, and personal development. Highlights included a mental wellness discussion led by King David, founder of the Blackfullness app, and a powerful testimony from former All-Pro NFL running back Darren McFadden, who shared his journey of overcoming alcohol addiction. With sponsor booths, interactive dialogue, and community engagement, Barber Connect 2025 demonstrated the power of culture, conversation, and connection in reshaping men’s health outcomes.
Videos
Barbershop Talk Presents: Barber Connect 2025 | Men’s Health in Action
This highlight video captures the purpose-driven energy of Barber Connect 2025, presented by Barbershop Talk. Centered on advancing men’s health through trusted male spaces, the conference sparked powerful conversations around physical health, mental wellness, and personal growth. Highlights include insights from King David on mental wellness and his Blackfullness app, and a powerful testimony from former All-Pro NFL running back Darren McFadden, who shared his journey overcoming alcohol addiction. With sponsor activations, community dialogue, and exclusive interviews, Barber Connect 2025 showcased the impact of using culture and conversation to transform men’s health.
Photos
Interviews
Darren McFadden: Running To Daylight | Barber Connect 2025
In this powerful interview at Barber Connect 2025, former All-Pro NFL running back Darren McFadden opens up about his life journey—sharing candid reflections on his personal struggles, battle with alcohol, and ultimate triumph over adversity. His story highlights resilience, accountability, and the importance of prioritizing mental and physical health.
Beyond Tough: Kendra Pruitt on Men’s Emotional Wellness
In this interview from Barber Connect 2025, Kendra Pruitt reflects on moderating the “Beyond Tough: Barbershop Talk on Emotional Wellness for Men” panel. She discusses the importance of creating safe spaces for men to openly address mental health, challenge stigma, and embrace emotional wellness as a vital part of overall well-being.
Beyond Tough: Lamar Henderson on Real Conversations
AroundMen’s Mental Health
In this interview from Barber Connect 2025, Lamar Henderson shares insights from the “Beyond Tough: Barbershop Talk on Emotional Wellness for Men” panel. He speaks on the importance of men being honest with one another, breaking the stigma around mental health, and creating spaces where vulnerability, accountability, and support are embraced.
Beyond Tough: Sheeny Griffin on Vulnerability and Men’s Mental Health
In this interview from Barber Connect 2025, Sheeny Griffin reflects on the “Beyond Tough: Barbershop Talk on Emotional Wellness for Men” panel. He shares why it’s critical for men to be honest about where they are emotionally, embrace vulnerability, and feel empowered to reach out for help without shame or stigma.
King David on Blackfullness: Tools for Better Mental Health
In this interview from Barber Connect 2025, King David, creator of the Blackfullness App, expands on his presentation by sharing practical tools and strategies designed to support better mental health. He discusses the importance of mindfulness, culturally relevant wellness practices, and accessible resources that empower individuals—especially men—to take control of their emotional well-being.
Stacking Smart: Charles Blake on Men, Money & Smart Investing
In this interview from Barber Connect 2025, Charles Blake of Southern Bancorp Bank shares insights from the “Stacking Smart: Barbershop Talk on Men and Money” panel. He emphasizes the importance of smart investing, understanding your financial threshold, and building long-term wealth through informed, intentional decisions.
Stacking Smart: Marvin Cawthon Jr. on Building & Scaling in Barbering
In this interview from Barber Connect 2025, Marvin Cawthon Jr., barbershop owner and Southern Bancorp Bank representative, reflects on the “Stacking Smart: Barbershop Talk on Men and Money” panel. He shares insights on young barbers entering the industry, building a strong foundation, and scaling their businesses with smart financial strategy and long-term vision.
Imam Johnny Hassan: Faith, Mentorship & Purpose
In this interview from Barber Connect 2025, Imam Johnny Hassan speaks on his role as a spiritual leader and mentor, guiding young people toward lives of discipline, productivity, and purpose. He shares the importance of faith, accountability, and community support in helping the next generation live with integrity and direction.