We recently had the chance to connect with Heather Zassoda-Neals and have shared our conversation below.
Heather, it’s always a pleasure to learn from you and your journey. Let’s start with a bit of a warmup: Have any recent moments made you laugh or feel proud?
One of the most recent moments that truly made me laugh and feel incredibly proud was when my oldest son told me he wants to become a barber. He’s graduating high school this year, and hearing that he wants to learn the same trade that changed my life was a full-circle moment for me. It reminded me that everything I’ve built, every late night and sacrifice, is being watched—and it matters.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
The GOAT Barbershop was founded with a simple yet powerful mission: to create an inclusive space where everyone-regardless of culture, background, or hair type-feels seen, valued, and confident. What started as a single chair has grown into a movement built on authenticity, community, and skill. Our philosophy is rooted in connection-because we believe a haircut is more than a style, it’s a statement. At The GOAT Barbershop, we’re redefining the barbershop experience, one fresh cut at a time.
Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. What relationship most shaped how you see yourself?
The relationship that most shaped how I see myself is my marriage. My husband believed in my dreams before I fully believed in them myself. Through his constant encouragement, words of affirmation, and unwavering support, he helped restore my confidence and sense of worth. Loving and being loved in such a genuine, intentional way changed how I view myself and what I believe I deserve. For the first time, I felt truly seen — not just for who I am, but for who I am becoming. That kind of love is powerful, and it reshaped the way I move through the world.
When did you stop hiding your pain and start using it as power?
I began transforming my pain into power when I became pregnant with my son. At that time, I was in an abusive relationship, and I knew in my heart that I had to make a change — not just for myself, but for my child. I refused to allow that cycle to continue or for my son to grow up believing that kind of behavior was normal. Finding the strength to walk away required courage I didn’t even know I had, but motherhood awakened it in me.
Today, my son is five years old, thriving, and being raised by my husband — a man who stepped into the role of father with love, consistency, and strength when my son was only four months old. What once felt like the darkest chapter of my life became the foundation for my greatest purpose. I learned that my pain didn’t define me — but my decision to rise above it did
I think our readers would appreciate hearing more about your values and what you think matters in life and career, etc. So our next question is along those lines. What’s a belief or project you’re committed to, no matter how long it takes?
I am fully committed to building my business with longevity and legacy in mind — not just for myself, but for my sons. My vision is to create generational wealth and a barbershop that serves as a true safe space: a place rooted in confidence, culture, discipline, and opportunity. I want my sons to grow up watching what it looks like to build something meaningful from the ground up and to one day have the tools, mindset, and foundation to build their own legacy.
No matter how long it takes, I am committed to strengthening this brand with integrity, excellence, and purpose. This isn’t just a business to me — it’s a mission, a future, and a generational shift.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. What will you regret not doing?
I would regret not fully building the brand and vision behind my barbershop. I can’t stop — because this is bigger than just cutting hair. It’s deeply important to me that my business becomes profitable, impactful, and sustainable. I’m not just creating a service; I’m building a movement rooted in growth, confidence, and opportunity for the community.
If I ever walked away without giving this everything I have, I would feel like I left purpose on the table. This brand carries too much meaning, potential, and responsibility for me not to see it all the way through.
Contact Info:
- Website: thegoatbarberllc.my.canva.site
- Instagram: @thegoatbarber
- Facebook: HeatherBirminghamBarber
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