Trooper Tribute is my noble endeavor to honor the artisans who fuel the grooming galaxy with their dedication and craftsmanship. In this ongoing series, we pose questions to these esteemed artisans, allowing them to share their insights, experiences, and passion with us. Through their answers, we gain a deeper understanding of the artistry behind their creations and the stories that shape their journey. Join us as we celebrate the Empire’s finest artisans and their contributions to the world of grooming
Dakoda Baker – Herc Soap Co.
Herc Soap Co. is the creation of Dakoda Baker, a veteran artisan and fellow Airman who began making shave soap after returning from deployment in 2018. Inspired by his military service, where grooming standards are a deep-rooted tradition, he blends history and craftsmanship in each soap. Drawing inspiration from fellow artisans like The Holy Black and his own experiences in Afghanistan, Herc Soap Co.’s products honor the legacy of the U.S. military while delivering high-quality shaves. With a passion for creativity and a dedication to community, Herc Soap Co. stands out as a unique, veteran-owned brand in the wet shaving world.
Join us for a Trooper Tribute Q&A session with Herc Soap Co., where the sky is the limit, you lather like a legend, and shave like a hero.
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Episode I // A New Hope: The Beginning of a Shaving Journey
Q: How did you first get started in the art of making shave soap?
A: I started back in 2018 when I got home from a deployment. During the deployment I took a DE safety razor and some soap I knew nothing about. By the time I left Afghanistan I was deep into the shaving, and needed a new hobby. I started making the soap just as a craft experiment and then realized I could brand them in a way that was fun and close to home for me… the military!
Episode II // The Force Awakens: Inspiration from Military Service
Q: What inspired you from military service to creating shave products?
A: The US military has a LONG relationship with grooming standards. Since some of our first conflicts we have used “intimidation through uniformity” and with that, grooming standards like a clean shaven face. So right off the bat I was already a shaver. But something like military aviation has such a rich history that when it came time to theme and brand the soaps I was making, it was a no-brainer.
Episode III // The Master Jedi: Inspirations from Fellow Artisans
Q: Do you have a favorite artisan whose work you admire or draw inspiration from?
A: The Holy Black!! Those boys are amazing humans! When I was deployed to Bagram, Afghanistan in 2017, I ordered their Gunpowder Spice (they were like a brand new company at the time), and once they saw the shipping address they sent me a care package out of the blue, full of stuff and a note expressing their support. But then I started making soaps myself and I’ve continued to aspire to be like them: wholesome, honest business, committed to their product, and very innovative. They built a community and a culture with their products. I have all the creepers and my favorite has to be Sandalwood Smoke.
Episode IV // The Clone Wars: Crafting the Perfect Shave Soap
Q: Can you explain the process you use to create your shave soaps?
A: I kinda use a parallel technique. I’m always thinking of scents and themes at the same time, but separately. And every so often something from the two columns will click together. During my first tenure, I had wanted to do a bourbon/whisky scent. At the same time I was looking into some naval history. When it came to me that true American bourbon has to be aged in a barrel made from American White Oak… and that the hull of the USS Constitution can only be repaired with American White Oak… Old Ironsides was made. So I’m constantly thinking of both things at the same time. (NOTE: When will this be coming back?!)
Episode V // Imperial Protocols: Military Precision in Soap Making
Q: How does your military experience influence your approach to making shave soap?
A: Spreadsheets and trackers! I feel the need to accurately document EVERYTHING from pricing, costs, ingredients, recipes, everything.
Episode VI // The Trials of a Padawan: Challenges of the Artisan’s Path
Q: What challenges have you faced in establishing yourself as an artisan in this field?
A: Initially I had the same issues I’m sure a lot of artisans had, a few bad actors reaching out and telling me point-blank that I didn’t stand a chance. And that really got me down. But then I circled back to the thought that I wasn’t doing this to get rich or pay the bills. I’m doing it because it’s so much fun to interact with this community, make things, and have a challenging hobby. It’s been smooth sailing (mostly) since I got my head right.
Episode VII // The Lightsaber of Shaving: Unique Ingredients and Techniques
Q: Are there specific ingredients or techniques that set your products apart from others?
A: I’m proud to say that my own unique recipe stands strongly on its own against other soaps. But what really sets me apart is my story and brand. I, being a current US Airman, have deep ties to the military and its history. Using that, my products stand far apart from others.
Episode VIII // The Rebel’s Way: Advise for Future Artisans
Q: What advice would you give to someone looking to start their own artisan business?
A: Don’t think. Do. The only thing you have to lose is time. As long as your family is safe and insulated from the risk, jump.
Episode IX // Return of the Jedi: Upcoming Projects and New Adventures
Q: Do you have any special projects or products in development that you’d like to share with us?
A: My priority is to settle into this new life back in the military and get back to continuous production. But on the horizon, aftershave splashes and a soap themed around Old 666.
Bonus Rogue One Question // Behind the Bucket
Q: Who is your favorite Star Wars character, and if you could create a Star Wars-themed shave soap, what would it entail?
A: EXCELLENT (AND HARD) QUESTION!! My favorite character has to be the whole idea of the Stormtrooper. Are they fundamentally evil? Sure, but behind the buckets are kids trying to get off their home planets and earn something for themselves. A close second would be R2. As an airborne mechanic, I can relate to that little dude and if we could understand what he was saying, (keep in mind he was an aircraft mech droid) we’d all blush. If I were to theme a soap from the Star Wars universe, I think I’d love to show the Jawa’s some love.
Troopers, we just completed our third installment of Trooper Tribute with Herc Soap Co. We commend this fellow Airman and veteran artisan who combines that military tradition with a passion for wet shaving. Herc Soap Co. brings that unique blend of history and craftsmanship to every soap. He also shared insights on his creative process, the challenges he has faced, and the importance this community has in this craft. Plus, be on the lookout for aftershave and soap inspired by Old 666.
A big salute to Dakoda of Herc Soap Co. for taking the time to share his journey and his mission. Stay tuned for more on this amazing brand, troopers! Herc Soap Co. is one you don’t want to miss. Move along. Move along.
Read my full review of Herc Soap Co.!
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