From Code to Clippers: How Tech Leader Scott Wheeler Built a Salon Business on a Passion for People

After 30 years in IT, Scott Wheeler took a leap into an entirely different world and discovered that what had been missing from his career was right in front of him all along.
Now, as owner of Sports Clips of Dallas, he’s helping others find joy in building their careers.

Scott, tell us about your passion.

I'm passionate about providing jobs and building careers for salon professionals in Dallas so that they can be inspired in life and support their families, whilst bringing joy to men and boys in the community.

How did you discover your passion; was there a big "aha moment" or did you realize it more slowly?

After working for 30 years in information technology services, I realized it wasn't technology I was passionate about — it was working with people and inspiring them that brought me joy. By purchasing an existing franchise business, I was able to jump straight in and quickly build relationships with around fifty salon professionals who were struggling to find their own passion in life. 

What was happening in your life when you began to discover this passion?

I was burnt out from the downside of IT consulting, where I'd never truly invested significant time or energy with a team of people

As you’ve built your business, have you had moments of hesitation? What has helped along the way?

Oh yes — I was terrified of taking the risk of owning my own business and being responsible for the employment and income of so many people. I investigated starting or purchasing a business for over a decade and was never confident enough in my own abilities to move forward. I've found that investing time in getting to know and understand my employees — nearly 50 of them — has profound rewards I didn't expect. The more time I've invested in them over the past three years, the greater my sense of satisfaction in helping them succeed.

What's one surprise you've encountered as you've pursued this passion?

I found that I can add real value to people's lives by operating a business that provides good pay, good benefits, and the stability they need to reduce the anxieties that come with putting food on the table and paying the bills in modern-day American life.

Look back at the "you" before you started this passion. How is your life different?

I'm a more grounded and humble person after owning a salon business. I no longer see myself as a "knowledge worker" — I see myself as the operator of a platform that fuels the fulfillment of income and passion for the people I employ.

Has your passion helped others? How?

It's helped them find stability in their lives and the confidence that their employer genuinely cares about them. I’m learning a life lesson that I enjoy working with people far more than I ever realised — and that helping people provides the fuel for my daily energy.

What would you say to a friend or colleague who is considering exploring a passion?

That they aren't living their fullest life without exploring and pursuing their passions. Take a risk. You won't regret it!

Scott Wheeler is the owner of Sport Clips of Dallas, five retail locations specializing in sports-themed haircuts for men and boys.
Find him on Instagram @sportclipsdallas or at www.sportclips.com