Our Masters of Ceremonies
We are stoked to bring the best MC's of the midwest (and a little east!) If you've been to a competition over the past 6 years in Michigan, Ohio, Pennsylvania, or Indiana, you've probably run into one of these three! We will be rotating our MC's throughout the evening so you'll never get bored, and also so they can mingle off stage a bit too.
Stephen (El Chapo) Alvarado
Hailing from Pontiac, Michigan, is a renowned figure in the bearding community. Formerly the Vice President of the Murder City Facial Hair Crew in Detroit, MI, Chapo has dedicated the past 9 years of his life to the art of bearding. Currently residing in Fort Worth, Texas, he has traveled far and wide to compete in beard competitions, from as far north as Barrie, Ontario, Canada, to as far south as Fort Worth, Texas, with many stops in between. 

Chapo's passion for bearding extends beyond the competition stage. He cherishes the camaraderie and the opportunities for charitable work that arise within the bearding world. With his extensive experience and knowledge, he has had the privilege of judging and MC'ing numerous competitions over the years. Chapo's commitment to the bearding community and his dedication to both the art and the philanthropic aspects of bearding make him a beloved and respected figure among his peers.
“I love entertaining the crowd, making people laugh, 
smiles,  Hugs and Whoop Whoop make me happy.

DETROIT!”
Taxi Phil Jones
Considered an "OG" in the bearding community, having dedicated over 15 years to growing and maintaining his beard. He has showcased his beard on various stages, participating in competitions ranging from local festivals to the prestigious 2017 Worlds in Austin, TX. Phil is not only a competitor but also holds important roles within the community. He is a founding member and current president of the Cincinnati Beard Barons, which hosts the renowned Big Whisker Revival event. Additionally, he serves as the Vice-President of the NACBMA (North American Competitive Beard and Moustache Alliance). Outside of his bearding pursuits, Phil is an ice cream aficionado and is known for his skills as a judge, emcee, and auctioneer at competitions. 

He is also a loving husband to his wife, Mrs. Jones. Phil and his partner, Sandy, have extensively traveled across the country to attend more than 100 bearding competitions, all in support of charitable causes. They find joy in witnessing the positive impact of the bearding community and eagerly anticipate reconnecting with familiar faces and forging new connections along the way.
Dr Adam Paul Causgrove
Dr Adam Paul Causgrove is Chief Executive of the American Mustache Institute and founder of the only globally-recognized facial hair centric policy think tank, MustacheForward. 

Causgrove has judged and hosted beard and mustache competitions across the US and brings a unique appreciation for celebrating this ruggedly handsome lifestyle. Dr. Causgrove has been featured in Time Magazine, his grade school yearbook, and innumerable semi-scandalous day dreams. 

Our Esteemed Judges
To come home with a title from Great American is an incredibly special thing, and we wouldn't leave the deciders up to just anybody. We carefully selected the most prominent and nitpicky professionals in the bearding community to be sure that the best of the best are truly rewarded. We are excited to announce our prestigious panel of judges as we get closer to the event.
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