Life's short — so you might as well look good and be completely, unapologetically yourself while you're here. That's the energy Ricky Hodge brings to every room, every client, and every inch of his maximalist wardrobe. And in this episode, he brings it to you.
2025 Haircut of the Year winner Ricky Hodge is a celebrity hairstylist, fashion icon, and one of the most authentic humans I've ever sat across from. He pivoted into cosmetology in his late 30s after selling his grandparents' real life ‘Schitt’s Creek’ motels. Today, he has a roster of high-profile clients and at 57 years old, has amassed a social following closing in on 1M. His personal brand is so distinctive it basically has its own gravitational pull.
This conversation is an instruction manual for anyone who wants to be more themselves — and hasn't quite given themselves permission yet.
In this episode:
✂️ We talk about the wild pivot that started it all and what "all in" actually looks like when you're terrified. Ricky shares how his original signature look back in the day — bow tie, suspenders, mustache — was never just aesthetic. It was strategy. It attracted exactly the clients he wanted and repelled the ones he didn't.
🏆 We get into the 80/20 truth about success: only 20% is skill. The rest is how you show up — your energy, your presentation, the way you treat people.
🫀 Ricky opens up about coming out later in life, what it cost him and what it gave him, and why staying selective with your inner circle is an act of self-respect.
🤑 He talks raising his prices, knowing his worth, and why mentoring peers is part of how he defines a life well-lived in his profession.
💅 And yes — we talk maximalism. Not just as a fashion philosophy, but as a full life stance. Own your vibe. Take up space. Be the most YOU version of you. No holds barred. Mic drop moments throughout. This one will stay with you.
Timestamps
01:21 A wild career pivot at 35
06:19 The all-in mindset
07:28 Signature style as personal branding
10:55 Authenticity and change
14:19 A 10-year Power Move
15:55 Nerves and courage
22:12 Real influencer values
26:32 Soul decisions and self-love
31:07 Lessons from Ricky’s momma
33:32 Truth-teller parenting
39:15 Know your WORTH as a service provider 40:23 Raise your prices $$$$$$$$$
46:56 Go above & beyond
51:09 The MAXIMALISM mindset
54:52 Love what you do or don’t do it
57:06 OWN YOUR VIBE
Follow Ricky Hodge
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rickyhodge/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@rickyhodge
Website: www.rickyhodge.com
Get his merch: https://rickyhodge.bigcartel.com/
*** Thanks for being alive with me.
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TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@thealivekate www.katemanser.com
Once a week, I’ll text you a nudge to help you feel alive wherever you are, on any ordinary day. Text ALIVE to 512-898-7850