He Fades, She Colors: Eric Lee Gabrielson on Barbering, Family & Building a Dream

Send us Fan MailOn this episode of the Buckle Up Podcast Universe, Brandon Rush and Mama Rush sit down with Eric Lee Gabrielson, a San Diego-born and raised husband, father, entrepreneur, and barber with more than 15 years behind the chair.Growing up as one of three children in a military family, Eric’s childhood took him from San Diego all the way to Yokosuka, Japan, where his father was stationed. While living in Japan, Eric began studying karate, and after returning to the United States, he transitioned into Tae Kwon Do—eventually earning his black belt. That discipline carried over into sports, where Eric became a three-year varsity basketball player in high school.But Eric would ultimately discover another gift.After attending Associated Barber College, he realized that barbering wasn’t simply something he was good at—it was something he truly believed he was meant to do. Once he received his barber license, Eric wasted no time pursuing his dream. Just seven months later, he and his wife, Reixa, a talented stylist originally from Fairfield, California, opened their first shop together.Today, Eric and Reixa are the team behind He Fades She Colors Barbershop & Salon and have spent the last nine years building their business in Downtown San Diego.Eric joins us to talk about discovering his purpose, becoming an entrepreneur, building a business alongside his wife, fatherhood, discipline, and what more than 15 years in the barbering industry has taught him about people, perseverance, and believing in your gift.This is a conversation about recognizing what you were put here to do—and having the courage to build a life around it.Buckle Up.Support the show“We didn’t know it all— we learned with love, led with kindness, and earned our way to the top.”