Raising the Bar with Jay Potchen ~ by Lisa J. of Words on Tap Writing
Every once in a while I walk into a room and the people I encounter give off a vibe so positive and warm that you can’t help but smile. They emit a passion and excitement that is not only heard through their words, but also seen through the light in their eyes, and felt through the energy of the moment. This is exactly how I felt when I sat down with Jay and Mary Potchen of McFly’s Gentlemen Shop. We, at Hometown Happenings are thrilled to announce that Jay will be representing Hometown at this year’s “Raise the Bar” event on July 27th at the Crown Point High School, but I’ll expand on that a little later.
First, I want to tell you a little more about the guy behind McFly’s, and the background story of the coolest barbershop in town. Not surprising, because the more I do this the more I’m beginning to understand, there is so much more to Jay (and Mary) than meets the eye, and I’m excited to share.
To begin, I asked Jay exactly how he got started in the barber business, and how McFly’s stands apart from the others. You would think it would be a simple story, one that began with a dream of owning a business of his own, however, that was not exactly the case. Jay shared with me that as a child he loved haircuts, and his motto, even at only a few feet tall, was that “All you need in life is a good haircut and a good pair of shoes”. Jay knew what made him feel good as a kid, and through his life, he has strived to give that feeling back to others. And this is where the journey to becoming who he is is today began.
Like any teenager growing up, Jay didn’t exactly have a plan or even really understand what he was going to be when
he grew up, but he loved haircuts and he loved backyard wrestling. Yep, backyard wrestling. Ironically, this is the part of the story that paved a way for Jay to do what he was truly meant to do. After being “discovered” in the backyard scene, Jay was recruited to train in an East Chicago gym for real deal wrestling, and while after a few years he had the opportunity to travel and potentially break out into the big leagues, he had to make a choice: his family or wrestling. According to him it was a simple choice. The waitress from Red Robin who stole his heart and balanced (and still does balance) his ambitions was more than enough reason to stay.
So, Jay then turned to his next love, haircuts. Going to school and working as a barber fulfilled his goal of making people feel good, because of course all you need is a good haircut and good shoes. However, little did he know it would lead him to speaking all over the country and inspiring those with a dream, like himself, to follow their hearts. It was a friend that approached Jay about an opportunity where Andis, the leading manufacturer of handheld tools to trim, cut, curl, straighten and dry hair, was looking for a Spanish speaking female educator. Of course, Jay totally fit the bill. 😊 Knowing this was the opportunity to do more, Jay took a chance and for the last 7 years he has traveled all over to educate, inspire and motivate others about his craft and the possibilities.
It was only after being approached several times about where his shop was located that Jay decided it was time to make his own mark in the community. Recruiting his partner in life, Mary, to help with the behind the scenes of the business, Jay opened McFly’s Gentleman Shop in 2012. (On a side note, in talking to them both, there was no doubt of the appreciation and love between these two beautiful souls, and it was so refreshing). Still traveling as an educator, a business owner and a dad, Jay’s purpose was clearly evident when he continued to talk: To make people feel good. He is also incredibly proud that McFly’s is a true friend to all who walk through his doors. It does not matter your background, race, age, gender, sexuality, or self-identity, you will always feel welcome in the barber chairs at McFly’s. Additionally, Jay not only wants his customers to be themselves, he wants his barbers to do the same, which is why there are unique personalities, especially humorous ones, for everyone.
So, what sets McFly’s apart from the mainstream barbershops other than a cool backstory, passion and a great 
partner? Well, according to Jay, it’s just like beer. You have your regular everyday watered-down beer, and then you have your craft beer. McFly’s is craft beer. A distinctive experience that you will not find anywhere else. Don’t believe me, give it a shot. McFly’s is located at 1190 N. Main Street (by Jewel), with hours Monday 12-7, Tues-Friday 10-7, and Saturdays 9-5, closed on Sundays. Take a chance and you may find your barber at McFly’s.
Still intrigued, my questions didn’t end there, and in wrapping things up, Mary, Jay and I started to talk about a program I have recently become involved with and absolutely love, Xcel 2 Fitness, now known as Dream Chasers. You see, on top of running a business, raising three boys and juggling schedules, Mary is on the board and coaches, and Jay coaches right by her side. And, just like her husband, you could not deny the passion she has for such a great cause. It was a fun conversation and I probably could have talked for several hours, but we’ll save that for another day. I am happy to say though, that exciting things are coming for this fabulous program and I’m thrilled to be a part of it.
Before I left, I did ask Jay one final question, as it’s one I am always curious to hear the answer to. I asked him what his “Why” was, his reason for doing all he is doing. His answer: Kids, and not just his own, but kids in general. Taking pride in the community, leading by example, motivating to lead in their own lives and to make a difference even if it’s just for one. How can you not love that!!
This brings me to one of those instances where he is leading by example. I am excited to say Jay will be representing Hometown at Raise the Bar this Saturday at Crown Point High School. “Raise the Bar” is a charity event that combines the passion for strength training with the desire to care for our community. The Crown Point F.O.P and the Hoosier Barbell Club are “raising the bar” for what it means to be a good neighbor. This year, the participants will squat, press, and deadlift for a noble cause. Want to attend or even register, it’s still possible online at https://www.crownpointfop.com/event-info/raise-the-bar-strengthlifting-meet or Saturday from 8-9:30 with the event starting at 10. However, just know Hometown with Jay in our corner has the competition in the bag, so bring it on!!
Thank you, Jay for representing Hometown and thank you and Mary for the inspiration and passion you both infuse in all you do. There are people in our community, more than you may even know, that strive to make a positive impact, make others smile, and shift the mindset to what’s possible. I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to meet so many of them and get the chance to spotlight the ripple they make in this great big ocean of life.