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This episode is sponsored by Airbnb, y'all. When spring hits and nature starts calling my name, you know I am headed straight to Airbnb to find the most loved homes to scratch my outdoor z itch. Now let's get into it, baby. Hey, hey, hey, listeners. It's your girl, Keke Palmer, back again like your most loyal group chat. And today we're talking all things friendship, the real tea on keeping your circle tight, navigating fallouts without having yourself fall apart, and turn friend drama into character development, honey. And who better to break it all down with me than one of the most hilarious creators, Ricky Thompson. We're also getting into everything from what it means to him to stay relevant and how he does it so effortlessly to dealing with bullies and online haters. So grab your ride or dies. Text that friend you've been meaning to check in on and settle in, because, baby, this is Keke Palmer. No matter what we doin in the car, just chillin pop on Amazon music, sit back and listen. Life, love, sex, science, hovering it all, especially the vagus always evolved no matter what it is, we gonna make it make sense Nothing else to do but kick it with the homies and kings so grab you a drink and a snack, you enjoy and get into the vibe that only you know it's your girl. Baby, this is. This is Kiki. Baby, this is Kiki Karma. Yeah. All right now, y'all, my guest today is a certified Internet icon, a fashion killer, and one of the funniest people to ever hit your social feed. You know him from his viral rants, his flawless fits, and everything is always on 1000. He's gone from vine superstar to booking major fashion campaigns and becoming a whole brand on his own. Ricky Thompson, welcome to the show. Hey, Ricky. Mer.
B
Hey, girl Love.
A
Oh, my gosh. Okay. Like, I'm just so glad about this moment because back in 2020, I tweeted, if I were to create a Millennial the View, who would you want to be my co stars? And everybody was saying, ricky, Everyone said that here we are together, and the world can final see how we vibe and get on.
B
Okay.
A
I feel like it's a match. And I know you're an Aquarius.
B
I am.
A
I'm a Virgo, period. We can get really nerdy in the human experience of life and how we feel and who we are. So it's going to be a good conversation. I'm so happy that you're here.
B
I'm so happy to be here, girl.
A
And I just seen you. We were at the. What was that? We were at in New York together, getting it up. But now you're kind of over New York. You're telling me it's a tinge.
B
I'm over it. I'm over it.
A
How long were you over there?
B
I was there for about 10 months. I was there 10 months. I moved out there last spring.
A
Okay.
B
And I was like, okay, cute. I really wanna try New York. I was like, okay. That was my dream.
A
What did you get the move?
B
Well, I was tired of LA.
A
Yeah.
B
I mean, I've been here for 10 years, you know, and I feel like I was doing the same thing over and over again. I was like, girl, I want something different. I need the city. I need the big lights. I need all of that.
A
What do you think is the biggest difference of the Ricky in New York and the Ricky in la?
B
I would say the Ricky in New York, he was really trying to find himself out there. I know myself here. It's so hard to find yourself in New York. I had not a lot of friends out there. All my good girls are out here, so making friends out there was very difficult. You know, the nightlife is so crazy. Yeah.
A
What is? The nightlife out there? Cause I feel like I don't even know the nightlife in LA anymore.
B
Girl, it's popping over here now. I'm like, I live.
A
Yes, girl.
B
Yeah.
A
So are we talking clubs or we talking dining out, lounge?
B
Both. Both. Both. Yes. It's cute here. So in la, you could go away for a week and people would still remember you. You go away in New York for a week, they forget about you. You have to be out all the time.
A
Oh, no, no, no. And who's doing that?
B
I know. Brooke.
A
I'm tired, Todd. Seriously. Well, I mean, you've been going everywhere, doing everything, because I also saw you with my main girl Rihanna in Barbados. What was that giving.
B
Oh, my God, that was so good.
A
I left a girl up, by the way. Yes, Girla.
B
I said all the time.
A
Everything. Girla. Girl.
B
Ah.
A
Everything.
B
Yes. It was so much fun. When I got the call and I heard she, like, handpicked the people she wanted to come with her to Barbados, I said, girl, I'm there. It was so much fun, you know, just hanging out. Hanging out with her?
A
Yes.
B
In her country, like, girl, I live.
A
I mean, how does it feel? Because I feel like everybody lives for you. You were just in denial as a river.
B
Yes.
A
You were the other man.
B
Yes, I was. It was.
A
What was that giving? How was it working with Dochi? She's incredible. Like, the girls are always living for you. You're always the moment.
B
Oh, thank you.
A
You're welcome, girl.
B
Thank you, girl. Lala, coming from you, that means so much. But I love Dochi so much. I've been a fan of her for years. I'm just so happy that finally she's getting her flowers. But girl deserves it. Come on.
A
No, she absolutely does. I love the success, and I like creativity behind it all too.
B
That's dope.
A
It's a story that's being told that I dive into.
B
I know, girl. Yeah.
A
So I want to talk about. We said what we said. Your podcast that you did with Denzel.
B
Yes.
A
How did y'all become friends?
B
Oh, my gosh, girl. It was love at first sight. It was love at first sight. We were on vine together.
A
Yeah. Yeah.
B
And I remember there was this big festival. I don't know if you know this, but it was like Digi fest. It was like, where all the people would pay, like, all around the world to go see their favorite social media creators.
A
Right.
B
They had it in New York at Citi Field. So we all went there, and I DMed him on vine. I was like, I love you. I think you're so funny. Like, I think we should be friends. He's like, okay, cool. As soon as I saw him grow, I ran up to him and gave him the biggest hug. We've been friends ever since then.
A
Oh, my gosh. And so what was the journey like for you guys becoming Internet sensations? Like, was it something that you were focused on strategically? Because I feel like me and you have a similar personality, where it's like, I'm performing, but also I'm the mastermind of the performance.
B
Exactly, exactly.
A
So how much of that strategy did you guys develop together with how to, you know, build your careers?
B
Well, I mean, I'm very thankful because he's been in my life for so long. He's really kept me grounded because social media is a very difficult thing.
A
It is.
B
And also with social media, this is not what I wanted to do, by the way. This was not my plan. What did you see, girl? I saw myself being an actor. That's why I did it.
A
You still acting?
B
Hello, I am. You own unique vibe, you know, But I said I wanted to make sure I get my name out there. Yes. And, you know, that would get the girls talking. And it definitely did work, honey.
A
It definitely did. Honestly, even me starting in traditional, my resurgence through social media, it was the same game plan. It was how to refocus who I am in this industry so that I could get the roles that I want to get. So, I mean, it's a great plan, and it's worked for us both, period.
B
Yes, it did. Girl out.
A
No serious girl. Ah. But obviously, over the course of your success, I think that puts tension on all relationships, not just the ones that are in front of the public, but obviously, yes, you and Denzel. And so there was a moment where you guys kind of fell out, and I wanted. You know what? It's hard to say what happened, but, like, what happened?
B
So, you know, basically, with us, we just had, like, a petty argument, and it was like. But honestly, me and him talked about it. We were, like, glad that it did happen because we got to figure out ourselves. Like, I feel like a lot of times people just put us together all the time, which is great, you know, but we want to do our own thing, you know? One thing I would always laugh that he would say he was like, ricky, we're not Tia and Tamera, you know?
A
Cause y'all are Kenan and Kelly.
B
You know, we not giving twin on them. You know what I mean? You know, it's just giving. So it happened, and we came back and we're stronger than Evergirl. That is my rock. I love that. Man down, girl.
A
How was it going through the social media stuff of that of now? Y'all are laughing at shit we don't want y'all to laugh at. Oh, it's because you're jealous of you. Or it's because, like. Like, how was that? Because it's a petty argument, but then y'all making it bigger than what it is or bringing up stuff that we didn't even know was under the knees.
B
Exactly. Like, people are messing around, taking, like, podcast clips. Like, oh, look how he said this. They had a beat falling out this time. It wasn't like that. It made me so mad because I am someone who doesn't interact on hate on social media at all. No. Like, I don't. I never feed in. I'm not the type to get on TikTok and be like, let's set the record straight. I'll let you think what you think. Girl, that's me. But it was annoying, you know?
A
Yeah, yeah.
B
But we had to ignore it. And then now we're better than ever.
A
Who initiated the getting back?
B
Denzel.
A
What sign is Denzel?
B
A Capricorn.
A
Okay.
B
Yes. Come on. I was scared to contact him. Cause I didn't know.
A
Cause.
B
And when we had the argument, girl, I thought he was just Done with me. I thought we were done. I felt like that was the end of our friendship.
A
And was it based in business or was it based in, like, just typical friendship. You didn't hit me back or what's going on? And it was regular like that.
B
Mm. It was such a petty argument, girl. And I just felt like I was like, dang. I was like, do you hate me? Like, girl, I can never hate you. We, like, we brothers. Come on now. I was so scared. I was so scared.
A
And so what does that make you guys feel like with the podcast? Like, is it just done? Is it coming back?
B
The podcast is done.
A
It's done.
B
The podcast is done. But it's not beef. It's all beef. It's just we want to do something bigger, Bigger now, you know? So, yes, bigger now.
A
So there's something cooking is what I'm hearing.
B
Yes, it is, darling.
A
Oh, yes. So it's almost like, okay, the argument happened. We had whatever our personal stuff was, but also it provided a space for evolution.
B
Yeah.
A
We want to even move past exactly where we last left off. Okay, well, that's really amazing. I mean, how does that make you think in terms of having that situation go down? How do you feel about working with friends? And I say this because when I was growing up, the only person that I would do business with that I knew, like, that was my mom. And also I was a little kid, like, how am I going to be friends, really, with the people that I'm working with? They're much older than me. But as I've gotten older, you know, I remember I was working with Awesomeness tv. That's where I met my best friend and partner, you know?
B
Yo, I know, girl.
A
And we became best friends and business partners and I. And it is nerve wracking sometimes when I'm like, if I lose her and the business, like, I don't want, you know. So what are your thoughts around that? Does it make you lean more into working with friends? Are you more careful about.
B
Honestly, truly, I would only work with Genteel. I would only work with him only because I feel like we've been through so much together. I just don't see myself going down the path with any other friend with business. You know, we know each other. Like, I know him, he knows me. So that's why, like, girl, forever.
A
Yeah. Yeah. Cause it is tough sometimes working with friends and how that all pushes.
B
They change, girl. They change. I'm like, ooh, you know?
A
Yeah. Yes, it's true. The girls do change, especially with Success yet, girl.
B
Right. Especially if you give them success.
A
Now, wait a minute. What's the tea?
B
Wake that tia, Girl. Come on now, girl. Girl on girl. Girl. Yes.
A
Oh, my gosh, that's crazy. Now, you've spoken a lot about your romantic relationships or the lack of thereof, honey.
B
Because.
A
And I feel the same way. I'm wondering for you if you have the same thing that I have. Where people want us to show up as who we are online.
B
Yes. Oh, my gosh. Yes, girl. Yes. The last guy I was dating, I'll never forget this, I met his parents, and his dad was like, wow, this isn't the Ricky I thought I would meet. Where is loudness? Girl, I felt so sick.
A
I'm not here to tap dance for you.
B
Literally, girl. I was like, okay, all right. But, yeah, people think they're gonna get like, hey, hey, hey all the time. No, I'm chill.
A
That's exactly me, too. It's like, I'm lil. People really do expect in the gag.
B
Yeah.
A
And it's like, babe, I'm chilling. There's the gag. Literally, I'm just chilling. I'm vibed out. And it's hard to be able to let people know, like, that other side of you. It takes a second to break through that wal. You said on Cammie Crawford's show that you were a little frustrated with dating because you felt like you hadn't met the right person, but you really wanted to find someone. Where are you now with finding love and how are you going about it? Because how do we in this day and age? Like, I'm not about to get on Raya again.
B
Oh, I'm on it now. Yes.
A
But Raya turns into a networking.
B
It does. It does. It's like, what do you mean?
A
Are we here to date? Are we here to.
B
I don't want that big bread. Oh, Lord, I just want a man so bad, girl. I want a man so bad. You know what? Can we normalize that? Cause I'm getting sick and tired of the whole, like, I'm single. I choose me. I want a man. Why can't I have one?
A
No. Single. And by the way, I'd like a few. You know, if you're gonna put it all on the table, you know, I would Love that. Free love. 70s. Let's bring it back. I want a few of you motherfuckers. Because when one messes up, I wanna have another one to go to.
B
Exactly. Keep on the back burner, Girl child. Yes.
A
I love that you said that. I remember I was having A conversation with Niecy Nash, and she was like, it's okay to ask for what you want.
B
Thank you.
A
And the universe needs to hear you say it.
B
Exactly.
A
So let's get into that then. What is the kind of man that Ricky Thompson.
B
Oh, my gosh. Let me sit up for you. Okay. He gotta be tall, girl. He gotta be tall.
A
He got to be tall.
B
I need to look up, not look down. Oh, okay, okay. Come on, girl. I need that. He's got to be tall. He's got to have, like, ambition. I don't want to date anybody in the industry unless he's bigger than me.
A
Ooh, now wait a minute. What's that? Tea?
B
I need, like, a director. Like a Steven Spielberg or something like that. That's right, baby. You know I need that.
A
Not you and Ryan Murphy. I know he's married, but I can see you with that vibe.
B
You know I need that. Like, I'm sitting there like, oh, the new protege. You know what I mean?
A
When I tell you I'm living for the scenery of that, I need that.
B
Like, I see it like, you know, we're at the Oscars, Okay? Yes. You see me in his movie, Ricky.
A
That gives me so much freaking life. Yes.
B
I want.
A
I really feel that. But I also feel you on the no industry. You're on the Meryl Streep where it's like, you don't know who my.
B
Exactly, exactly.
A
You don't even know if he's real or not, girl.
B
He keeps the lights on this building, girl. That's what I want, girl, with the type of man like that, that's business, okay?
A
Personality, vibe. What do you think? Is he serious? Is he funny?
B
He's gotta be funny, but he can't be corny.
A
Okay, so what's corny to you? Because, you know, corny ranges.
B
Yeah, it does. Corny to me is someone who makes a joke out of everything, and it's a really bad joke. Cause we can make jokes, though, but some people really can't. Girl. I'm like, ooh, child. I'm like, girl, like, ooh, God, girl. So I can't do that. I can't do corny. I want him to be serious, but I want him, like, be able to hold me down, like, if I'm like, ugh, crazy. Babe, calm down. Yeah, let's have a conversation. Now.
A
Wait a minute. You getting into the bag just got me a little hot, see? Ooh, babe, calm down. Like, why was that everything it needed to be?
B
Girl, that's what I need.
A
This Makes me ask. Biggest crush growing up. I have to ask this to see what your type is.
B
Oh, my God. Okay. Biggest crush. I think my first crush was Usher.
A
Oh, my gosh. Oh, my gosh. So you like a real sweet, pretty boy. Chill.
B
Sweet vibe. Yes. I love me a pretty boy. I do. But also, I love me a roughneck, too.
A
Oh, my God. Roughneck? How are we talking roughneck? Are we talking juvenile? Roughneck? Dmx, Cheese dmx.
B
Ooh, that's real rough neck over there, girl. Ooh, I think I want, like. I do like. Let me see. I would do Juvenile is cute. It's fabulous. You call it fabulous? A little bit, yeah.
A
Fabulous is absolutely a roughness.
B
Yeah. Yes.
A
Yeah, absolutely. But also a playboy. It's giving roughness.
B
Playboy.
A
I like a playboy, too, but don't play too damn much, boy.
B
I know, right? Period. Talk about it. Amen to that, girl. I don't mind, Baby.
A
This is Icky Palma. Yes. If these April showers got you feeling some type of way, your girl Kiki knows exactly what you need. Some time to reconnect with nature. Courtesy of Airbnb. Whether you're craving a mountain escape where you can literally touch the clouds, or need to get your Zen on in a desert oasis, these homes are giving return to nature realness in the best way possible. This time of year, I start getting antsy. Y'all know I've been working hard these past few months, and, baby, me and Leo desperately need some time away. So what's a girl to do? Take myself on over to Airbnb to find a guest favorite home in the middle of nowhere. Right now, I got my eyes on a cute little cottage tucked away in the forest. I gotta make sure that the place is private, well stocked and cozy for the gods. Bonus points if it has a crystal clear view of the stars and a lake where I can get my fishing on. And if you're like me, Airbnb's got you covered. Whether you're trying to escape the mountains, forests, or, yes, even the desert. We're talking authentic experiences with more space and more privacy in the most magical locations. Book your next adventure today and let nature do its thing. So what is your love? Are you into that? Have you heard of this love language thing? Okay, so what is your love language?
B
I would say my love language is definitely touch. I love touch. I think another thing for me, I love that you like words of affirmation. Like, I love a man that will wake me up and be like, today's gonna be a great day for You. You're gonna kill it. Go out there. You know, I'm not. I don't like gifts a lot.
A
I don't. Yeah.
B
Because if it's a bad gift, you really gonna get the real tea with me. I'm like, girl, uh, girl, I don't think you return it.
A
No, seriously.
B
But, you know. But yeah, this is simple. Stuff like that, I would say. What are yours?
A
Mines are physical touch. For sure. Definitely words of affirmation, like I like to hear and Acts of service.
B
Yes.
A
Yeah. Acts of service. Like, because I like to be of service to people. So if somebody is like, hey, by the way, I made you coffee. You know, I went out and I got this, you know, for you. Cause I know you had. You're gonna have to run out the way.
B
I would fold so quickly.
A
No, seriously. Like, someone to think about me and be thoughtful to me. Like, I'm being thoughtful to them. I think that's like, again, the simple thing, you know? You're big three, by the way.
B
I do.
A
What is that?
B
I'm an Aquarius. Virgo, Scorpio.
A
Oh, my God.
B
Isn't that crazy?
A
Now, which is which? Are you, the Virgo rising or you the Virgo moon?
B
Virgo rising.
A
Okay. And then your moon is Scorpio.
B
Oh, my gosh. Yes, girl.
A
Because I feel that the energy between us is so.
B
Yep.
A
Vibrant. I'm a Sagittarius moon. And I'm a cancer rising.
B
Oh, girl.
A
Yes.
B
I love that.
A
Yeah.
B
You know, I love my big three.
A
I love my big three.
B
I love it. Like, I don't hate on it. I'm like, I get it.
A
Yes.
B
But I hate that my Venus is in Pisces.
A
Oh, my gosh. My Venus is in Cancer. Why do you hate the Georges in Pisces?
B
Because, girl, I want love so bad, girl. I fall in love quickly, Girl.
A
It's the hopeless romantic tea.
B
Yes.
A
Yeah.
B
Yes. But I can fall out of love very fast, too.
A
Ooh. Well, that's great.
B
I love it.
A
Cause I feel like I take. Let me think. I think I do kind of fall in love quick. And I'm also. Tell me how you are with relationships. I try to get the other person to break up with me a lot of times.
B
Really?
A
I do. Because.
B
No, no.
A
It's hard.
B
No, no, no, no, no, no, no, no.
A
Because it's hard for me to say goodbye.
B
You really?
A
Yeah. Cool. I'm, like, scared. And so I find myself being like, we're done. And they'll be like, we'll get into a conflict and we're somehow back together again. How you do that, girl? Because they don't want to leave me, and I want you to go.
B
They don't want to leave this, girl.
A
But it's a mess. And don't know how to hold sex.
B
Girl, I know how to grow. Every guy I've dated, I've broken up with them.
A
Oh, period.
B
I haven't broken up with, girl, but it is with me. Here's my issue, girl. I break out, but I love to spend. Oh, I'm messy. I've had my exes be like, ricky, enough. I'm like, okay, sorry.
A
So how do you spin the block? Like, is it a call? Is it a popped up where you're at? What is the process of spinning the block for you?
B
Oh, gosh, girl. I'd be just. I'd be at my home, girl. I'm just, like, thinking, I post my. I really do miss him. And then they'll like the story. Cause they know I'm talking about them, girl. They know. They know.
A
Come on, games.
B
I'm like, hey, dragon, what's up with you? I'm like, but then I wake up. I'm like, why'd I do that?
A
You know, I hate the feeling of regret.
B
I hate it. But it's like, I love spitting the block because it's something that I know.
A
Yeah. And who wants to add another to the list? Literally, Girl, jeez Louise.
B
I want to know them first.
A
What's your favorite color?
B
Literally black.
A
Like, just move past all this shit.
B
I'm over it. But, you know, hey, I need to stop spinning the block, girl. It's not healthy.
A
Oh, my gosh. Well, I mean, I don't know. Is it unhealthy? Unless they really did something bad. Otherwise, I feel like it is a safe bet.
B
Yeah. Yeah.
A
I have spun the block. But this is the thing. It's usually a loop that's happening all in the same moment. If I've moved on and went to somebody else, I'm not gonna spin the block to the person before.
B
Really?
A
No. Because literally, if I left, it's because I'm dead on you.
B
Oh, wow.
A
Yeah, I'm. When?
B
Period.
A
Girl, when I'm done, it's because I've.
B
You're done? Yeah, girl.
A
And that's why I be like, don't push me there. Don't push me to the edge.
B
I'm about to be out, girl.
A
Cause I'm about to be out.
B
See, I wish I could do that. With me, it's like, if nothing bad happened and I could mess her in a beat relationship for four, five, six, seven years. Girl, I will spend a block with somebody I was dating 10 years ago. Oh, my gosh. I said, you look very nice. He said, dang, where have you been?
A
I live. Okay, I have to talk about when you were a kid, because you said you were shy.
B
Oh, girl. Yes.
A
Painful and, like, it's, like, funny, right? I think that people that are hilarious or sometimes they have these external personalities, and I speak to this because I'm one of those people as well. T. We sometimes are really serious, and it's not, but we don't show that. So how did you come into the fact that this is how you wanted to show up in the world? How did you choose to say, well, I have all this going on internally, but I want to be this. How did you decide to.
B
Definitely Acting. Acting really helped me. Yeah. Like, I've been in theater since I was, like, six years old. So, yes, I'm a theater kid. Down, honey. Yes. Oh, my gosh.
A
I did not know that.
B
Let down. I've been acting in theater since I was six years old. And, you know, that really brought it out of me. Like, I was a kid who was terrified, but I got on that stage, girl, it all just came out, honey.
A
I was the same way in church. So it's like, I wasn't shy necessarily, but I was always observing very, very zoomed out and very serious in my internal thoughts. But then I saw, like, I could make the world my stage.
B
Exactly.
A
And then that became who I am.
B
Exactly.
A
You know what I mean? Okay, so what you think made you shy as a kid? What were you. What was the reason why you kind of stood back?
B
I was bullied. Bullied. Down, girl. I was bullied so bad in school.
A
What were you bullied for?
B
Just being gay. Mm.
A
Really?
B
Mm. Being gay. Having girlfriends. Girl, I used to get trash canned. Yeah, girl.
A
What do you mean? Like, they would put you, like, the TV shows?
B
Yes, girl. I used to be in the hallway, girl. With a big book bag. Gone, girl. Did y'all come in there, put me in the trash can? Yes, girl.
A
And were you out? Like, were you like, I'm gay?
B
I wasn't out, but they knew.
A
Really?
B
They knew. They were like, oh, yeah, that boy right there. He got a little sugar in his tank. You know how they say that?
A
Yeah, back in the day. Exactly.
B
Little sugar in the tank. So, yeah, girl. Yeah.
A
What age was this? High school?
B
This was all like, elementary, middle, high school. I stopped getting bullied my junior year. In high school, because I did vine and people said, oh, my God, he's a celebrity in, like, my town. But, girl, all through that time, bullied down.
A
Would you tell your parents or what was your home life like? How did you deal with it?
B
My mom felt bad, my dad felt bad, because, you know, they would come to the school, but the teacher didn't really do anything. And, like, as being parents, you can't, like, fight the bully. So it's like, what can I do? They put me in karate. I tried to do that, but I don't want to fight nobody. I'm not gonna fight.
A
I'm not gonna try to do that. I love the scene of them about to do the trash can and you, like, girl, ready to go off.
B
But I just. I'm not a fighter. That's not me.
A
Yeah, Yeah. I mean, what would you say then to other people that are going through that? Because I feel like that's a difficulty. Right? Like, how do I stop? I remember, for me in school, when I would be getting bullied, a lot of my bullying was racially charged.
B
Okay.
A
I was the only black kid in my class, and it was. And I was really little, like 6. How are people being. That's how, you know, structures and concepts are pushed on you at a young age. Because these kids didn't know racism. They were taught it. And I remember going home crying, trying to tell my mom, but like you said, I don't know how to help it. Something just happened internally. I learned how to survive some way. And, yeah, maybe it was through performance, but I always want to know, like, what do we say to the kid that haven't gotten there?
B
I would just tell them that it's going to get better in the future. I always taught myself that. I don't know what it was, but I always envisioned this person. Always. I always saw this, the person I would be. I remember I was like. I would say, like, 12 years old. I got bullied so bad, and I came back home, I cried to my mom, looked at myself in the mirror, and I was like, look, it's gonna be okay in the future. You got this. Just keep your head up, girl.
A
You know who that was again, I'm about to go super Aquarius Virgo. But that was the you, the future you, and the timeline reaching out.
B
And I can't believe that. I can't.
A
I know. I went so meta. So I'm glad you got stellar with it. But that was the higher you. That was your future self being like.
B
I got your back I always say that to myself. I'm like, it makes me feel so thankful that I am who I am today because I remember that moment so vividly. And I was like, wow, girl, you helped yourself out. Okay?
A
Period.
B
Yeah, yeah.
A
Yes. I love that. Now you said something that I also really love that I feel the same way about when it comes to dating. You talked about it on Call Her Daddy, which is that you don't want the person you're dating to be antagonized by the public. And I think that that's a hard thing to explain to the person you're dating when you are a popular person, because their immediate thought is, oh, you want to hide me? You don't want the world to know we're together, or you got other people and this. But it's actually the opposite. I'm actually protecting you.
B
Yeah.
A
Because once I put you up out here, get ready. They about to get. And you can't. Everybody likes the sun until it burns they ass.
B
Amen.
A
You know? So how has that been for you? And, you know, do you think that that could ever change? Do you think you would want to pop out at some point?
B
I want to keep it a secret because also, I don't want the man to embarrass me. That's my biggest fear. And any single time you pop out with a dude, he will embarrass you.
A
What is that shit about?
B
I don't know. I mean, damn, it's crazy. But also, I talked about this the other day. I was like, what makes you upset as well? It's like when you pop out with somebody, these girls, I hear, let a mess out and dig up a skeleton you do not need to know about.
A
And by the way, it gets to a point these days where it's like, guys, is it toxic or are we human?
B
Thank you.
A
You know what I mean? It gets to a point where it's like, guys, who are we looking for?
B
Literally, I'm like, please, are we looking for Jesus? Literally.
A
Because nobody is perfect.
B
Nobody is. It's like, are you even happy that I'm in love? No, not at all.
A
Because they don't want to be in love because they've had all of these structural things. That man can't do this. She can't do that. And that's why your ass ain't happy. Because the person you're describing is not. You ain't even that person.
B
I know. I'm like, that's just sad.
A
It's too much.
B
It's just. It's sad. Girl, off. It's very sad.
A
These are your hard lines. Is it? You cheated on me. Never again is it, you know, you can't. What kind of car you drive or, you know, what kind of job. Do you have any hard lines of. No.
B
Let me think. I'm sorry. I just cannot mess with a guy who ain't got no money. I can't do it, girl. I cannot do it, girl.
A
But the thing is, no money or not as much money as you.
B
No money, no money is crazy, you know, I can't do guy who wants to mess her and live off my diamond. That's not me. Okay? I don't want that. I have no problem with a guy, you know, he's working on it. I love that. But, like, I tell people this all the time. I don't care, like, if you buy me a Birkin bag. Okay. Woo. Okay. Whatever. Yeah.
A
That's also ridiculous.
B
I don't want that. Like, I don't care if you do the simple things. Cook me dinner, you know, open the door for me, girl. Call me an Uber, you know what I mean? Simple. So that I can buy myself a Birkin bag, girl. Okay. You know, But I like the little things, so, you know, I need that. I need that.
A
I need that somebody that is. What's the word I'm looking for? Not sentimental, but just conscientious. Somebody that's thoughtful about what you can do. Make my life easier.
B
Boo.
A
Literally. I don't want that drama, you know?
B
Yes, girl, yes.
A
Now, you spoke about something else that I love, which is the concept that we all are dealing with in this entertainment age, but also specifically social media with this microwave of everything.
B
Yes.
A
The idea of being irrelevant.
B
Ooh, child.
A
How do you deal with that? Right. Because it can push us to. The thing is, is that you get popular by living in the flow.
B
Yeah.
A
The excitement of creating this content and doing this thing and living in this moment, it doesn't last forever. You have to be inspired again. But when we're being asked to perform and being asked to be popping or whatever the hell it's like now I'm pushing myself to do and create from a place that I don't know that is genuine. And so it's this push and pull of, yeah, I gotta show up, but also I gotta show up with fervor, you know? So how do you balance that?
B
I would say this moment in my life, I've been going through a lot of struggles with that. You know, I'm refining myself. I feel like, girl, I'm over here. Tired of reheating my nachos, girl. I'm over it, girl. I want to do something different. I need something to stimulate me, you know that's right. So it is very difficult. We live in a world now where things are so fast, girl. Trend, trend, trend, trend, trend, trend, trend. I'm getting tired of it.
A
Yeah, no, it's true.
B
So, like, I'm at the point now where I'm trying to figure out, so what does Ricky T. Do next?
A
Yeah. And going back to those early stages where you're talking about theater, you're talking about, you know, just the beginning of who you thought you were and who you wanted to be. This stop this transition and this growth through social media. Where do you see that next level for you?
B
Acting, girl.
A
What kind of roles?
B
Girl, I want to mess around just being anything, girl. Like, I need that, you know, I'm at a point now where I've done social media. I've been in the game for 10 years, girl. Still going. I'm really ready for that next step, girl. I'm ready to show the girls not on the phone screen, but on the big screen.
A
I know that's right. Now, what's your process for auditioning? Have you auditioned for things?
B
Oh, girl, let me tell you about it, girl. Okay. Cause I wanna ask you this, girl. How do you stay so strong in this acting world? Because here's my thing is, girl, I audition all the time.
A
Yeah.
B
You know, I'll go in for a guest role, main role. I remember one time I went in for a show and I had one line, girl, they had me on hold for a month. I say, I got it, I got it. Then they tell me, we love you, but we're going in a different direction. That's every email I get, girl. I'm getting, no, no, no. And I've gotten so self conscious about it.
A
Yeah.
B
So help me. How do you deal with that? Well, I mean, now, girl, now she's book, book, book, book, book, book, book, book. I mean, girl, I wanna get like that, girl.
A
So it's so funny that you say that because honestly what I did was went to social media because that's what kept happening to me.
B
No way.
A
And it's not only that I went to social media, but I went to social media with a plan where I would produce the kind of work that I wanted to star in.
B
Wow.
A
And so it's like I hear this conversation a lot and I have this conversation a lot with people that have started in social media. And it's this push against. I don't want to be on. I don't want to be in. But my advice would be to lean in harder and to produce traditional content on the format. And that, that would be the drive because that's what I did when I was doing traditional. They got tired of me after True Jackson vp, they were like, ok, what's next? Who is she? What does she have to say, really? And they weren't giving me a vehicle to show them because they were doing the same thing as you're saying. I'm doing the auditions, I'm doing the stuff. And it's like, we don't know. We don't say it. And so I started producing my own work and I start taking what I was earning from social media, from my brand deals and creating content. You know, I did turnt up with the Taylors. That was something that. It was a character off my page. It turned into an Emmy, you know, and so that's me leaning into the digital space further, but in a more traditional way. It's like instead of doing a quick video where I'm like, ha ha ha ha. I'm actually giving you a full fledged show.
B
Wow.
A
That's what I did with. That's the gag with Awesomeness tv. And at the end of that's the gag, I hosted SNL and it literally happened, what little manifestation, girl. But yeah, I think that that's a big thing in general. Not just for people on social media, not just people that are in traditional, but entertainers across the board. The real thing is creating our own stuff.
B
Right.
A
That's what we must do.
B
Okay.
A
Will Smith is not Will Smith because people gave him roles. Every movie that we've seen and that we loved of him, he produced, he had something to do with. And so I think that's the real tea with it. It's not just going in and saying, can I get the role? Can I get the role? It's creating the role.
B
Ooh, girl, you just spoke some wisdom in me. Like, honestly, Because I just want the role so bad. Cause always tell me, once I get the role, I got it. Once I get my foot in the door, I got it. But I can't think like that.
A
No. And when you were talking about you and Denzel, it's like whether it's with him or not. But if y'all are moving, like, what's the movie? What's the story? What is the 20 minute thing that you guys are gonna do that we're gonna tune into whatever it is, if it's just you, him, something y'all can do together, something you do separately. I'm leaned in and I wanna know it from your perspective because the truth about it is that these people don't know what to do with you.
B
Woo. They don't.
A
You got to show it's so crazy too. When I look back, when I started Key TV, I did commercials and Key TV is it's kind of my version of awesome. Ms. TV, we, you know, support entrepreneurs all across the board, specifically bipoc creators that are looking to collaborate with brands and get their coins so they can create their stuff. I did a commercial for it and literally almost every brand company that I've worked with since then has ripped my commercial. And it's not a bad thing. It's a good, it's a good thing. And I say that to say, like it was a spark in me that helped me to know that, oh, I gotta to keep telling them, right, who I am. I have to show the proof of concept with my own dime. And if I gotta bet on myself, then I'm gonna do it every time. And so I think that's the thing.
B
You know what I mean?
A
Like, it's like making what it is that you want to be in.
B
Wow, girl. Whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa, girl. Wow, girl. Let me go home and write myself a script, girl. Starring Ricky Thompson. You know what I'm saying? I love that. I needed that girl. Amen.
A
Hallelujah, baby. This is K pa. Yeah. You're from North Carolina. And you said, as soon as I got on that plane and left my hometown airport and looked behind me, I was like, wow, I can finally be myself. What do you mean by that?
B
What was growing, North Carolina? I could not be myself. I was closeted, down, closeted, girl, to your family, everybody, Everybody. Yeah, girl. I'm not.
A
So what would you say, girl?
B
Girl, I had three girlfriends.
A
Yes.
B
Girl, I had three girlfriends. Yes. I had three girls.
A
But sexuality is the spectrum, you know?
B
Girl, I knew I didn't like them girls. I knew I didn't, girl. But I was like, you know what? I gotta do it for my family, you know? Girl, growing up like in the South Christian household, girl, I was very scared. And I was just like, you know what? I'm gonna come out once I have my own money, you know? Cause and I hate that I thought that way about my parents. Cause they were like, if you would've came out to us, we would've never kicked you out. We would've had your back. But I Was like, it's not about y'all. It was about, like, going to school, you know, I hated all that type of stuff. But as soon as I left North Carolina, I got to la, and I was just like, I'm gonna be me. And I love it. It. It made. Like I was crying when I touched down here.
A
Oh, my gosh. That is just so. I'm just thinking about that experience of, like, hiding who you are and the weight of what that could feel like.
B
For 18 years, girl, just. Just quiet.
A
But I think it's amazing because you didn't forget about you to yourself. Cause I think actually that happens, you know, when we tell ourselves a lie long enough, it's like, what's the truth?
B
Exactly.
A
How did you hold onto the true piece of yourself? I mean, I guess it was that conversation you were saying earlier where you're like, this is who I am, really kind of thing. How did you hold on?
B
Ah, like, what do you mean? Like, what do you mean?
A
Like, how'd you hold onto you and know that one day you could be free to be yourself without losing yourself and saying, you know what? I'm gonna resign and just be this fake person.
B
It's actually crazy. I really. Okay. So when I was living back home, I did not know this would all happen. And I had a plan that I would come out once my parents were gone. Girl, that's. I thought, yes, I was gonna hold my secret that long. Yeah, girl. Yep. Yep.
A
Wow.
B
I know it. Like, when I tell my mom that, it breaks her heart.
A
She was like, that's what I'm saying. Because I think that that's a lot of people, whether it is whatever it could be with their identity that they're afraid to share with the world, it can be a resignation of. And then you forget that that was. You know, all these moments happen. The moment that you said you would happen and you don't. And so I think it's really incredible and remarkable that not only did you say yes to. You said yes to you earlier than you do thought you would.
B
Exactly.
A
And so what was that moment like with your parents when you finally did.
B
Oh, my goodness. Oh, it was bad, girl. It was bad. It was bad, girl. So basically what happened was I came out online. I came out online. I remember I tweeted. I was like, I'm over hiding, guys. I'm gay. I remember tweeting that. And my dad's a barber. And a customer walked in and was like, congratulations on your son coming out. He said, excuse me. He was like, look and show my dad. My dad drove home. Shut. My mom. My mom called me. She was crying. She's like, how dare you? You tell the Internet before you tell your family. It was so bad, but I just felt comfortable to me, because the Internet was my life. So I was like, I'm tired of it, girl. So they were upset. They were upset for about two months. They were like, you know what? But then they came back around. They're like, we get it.
A
So did your world change the way you thought it would? Meaning? Obviously there was the fears that came with it beforehand that stopped you or held you back. And then once you finally did, were you like, damn, I was tripping over nothing. Or were you like, oh, it was a little bit like, what I thought.
B
Like, no, girl, they. I should have came out years ago, child. Remember, I came out, they said, girl, we knew. I was like, oh, my God. And my friend's like, oh, finally. Oh, my God, girl. I was like, okay, well, damn, girl. I thought I was gonna have this moment. Like, oh, my God. I didn't know. Cause I posted a video on YouTube as well. In all the comments, we knew the closet was glass, girl. Wave that rainbow flag. I said, dang. I was like, period, though. I don't love it. Yeah.
A
Girl off.
B
Girl, off that girl up.
A
I'm eating that up.
B
Girl. You got to. Girl off.
A
Now. You said that 2024 wasn't everything that you hoped it would be.
B
Mm.
A
What did you mean by that?
B
Oh, my goodness. I think career wise. I got a new team. That was my main goal.
A
Girl, that team shit is a mess, ain't it?
B
Girl, I've been.
A
They don't want nothing but money for shit.
B
Did you create literally. But I finally have a team that people actually care for me. Like, my PR girl's like, one of my best friends, which I love. She looks out for me. My manager has been wanting me for years, and I finally am working with her. And these are people who care for me so much.
A
Yep.
B
Before, girl, I was just a cash cow.
A
Yeah, that's right.
B
That's it. And, you know, 2024, I finally have them, and just. Girl, just working for me. Just amazing.
A
Yeah, I feel the same way. I feel like I really found an amazing team for myself about five, six years ago. And, I mean, that's no disrespect to the teams I had before, but I do think it takes time to know what it is you need and who it is you want to be so that you can get the right people to Support you on that. You know, like. Like when I realized that I really wanted to focus on comedy and I wanted to really create this brand overall, then it made sense who I needed to work with and who gonna help me get there. How you feeling about 2025 so far?
B
Ooh, child. 2025. She's cute. She's cute. She's cute. But, you know, I do want more for her. But we're not done yet, though. No.
A
Yeah. I mean, it's so the beginning of it, you know.
B
You know, you know, but it's good. It's good. I just hope, you know, 2025, you know, I get my dream role. I get my man, girl. That's what I want on towel, girl.
A
I hope that, you know I'm going to pray that I hope that we all get man. Girl, we need it Lots of mans.
B
We need it this summer.
A
Being sexy out here in these streets.
B
Oh, girl. Yes. Girl, I'm in the gym. Girl, I'm in that gym.
A
Girl, I tell you. Pilates every morning, non stop. Okay, Girl, I hate it, sweetie, but we're going to. But you're snatched.
B
Girl, I. I did Pilates two days ago. Well.
A
And you don't like it.
B
I don't like it. It's annoying.
A
It burns.
B
You got to roll your core in, girl. Roll it in. Girl, I ain't got time for all that.
A
Girl, you do have to roll. And they're like, suck your ribs in. And you're like, what the hell does that mean?
B
Literally, girl, the girl. The stomach is tight.
A
I see it, baby. You see how I'm literally swimming in this?
B
Girl?
A
Yes, girl. Yes, you are, girl.
B
Girl.
A
Now you ate them with the girl. Girl, the emphasis on lies. Separate. Yes. Ricky, kicking it with you is everything that I thought it would be. And I do it be. We have to do some more together.
B
We do. Girl. Are you in New York now?
A
So I'm in LA mostly now, but, you know, it's so funny when you were saying it, because I want to be in New York more. I'm in here. You do, baby. You do.
B
Grow it up.
A
You do. I love New York down. Why do you love it so much, babe? You know, because I feel like I can be anonymous there. And what I mean by anonymous is, like, it's not like I'm hiding and I'm trying to be unseen, but it's like everybody got something going on there. And so it feels like no one cares about in California and LA specifically, everybody cares about the industry. It's like the Main thriving industry.
B
Right, right, right, right.
A
In New York, it's like they got Wall street, they got theater, they got models, they got journalist. Like, a lot of things are thriving there. So when I step into the room, it's not all that tea. It's tea. It's like, maybe that's Kiki Palmer, but it's also like, I'm so and so, and this is the world we're in. I get to step into something new.
B
I love. Girl, I live. Girl, you in a room so important. Important people there. Girl, like, dang, you do this, you do that. Like, I love it. LA is just the same people all the time and same thing. Like, girl, I didn't see you last week, child. Yeah. You know what I mean? Like, girl.
A
And the same conversations and like, look, I do love la. We love la. It's not a shit on LA moment. But I do feel like sometimes that's why I'll be wanting to be in New York, to get a break of. You know, when I was 21, that was when I actually got to spend time in New York. And I'm like. It actually helped me find myself to know that the center isn't of what I do. And it can be hard in LA with that.
B
Yeah.
A
And then you feel like you chasing something.
B
So do you feel like you could actually move? Like, move. Move to New York?
A
I mean, I'm always. I do live in la.
B
Are you leaving us? Are you leaving us? Girla, are you leaving us?
A
I have to be in LA because LA needs. So it's like I have to end up coming back and working. But I mean, yeah, I'd love to be in New York. I'm always gonna be there when I can, if I can get my little, you know, a job that keeps me there for a minute, I would live for that.
B
Girl, you will.
A
So you know, we're gonna speak that into existence.
B
Amen to that.
A
You know what I'm saying? Okay, I know I gotta let you go, but I wanna play a game with you.
B
Oh, yes, game.
A
I love playing a game with all my guests. You once said that Leos are your favorite sign to date.
B
Oh, yeah.
A
And Aries are the worst. So I wanna get into some more Zodiac, Best and worst with you. Are you ready?
B
Okay. Yeah, I'm ready.
A
Okay. Best and worst sign to hit the club with and why.
B
Worst sign to go to the club with is a Libra. Girl, why? Indecisive.
A
Oh, yeah.
B
They don't know where to walk in or walk out.
A
They never know if they coming or going, girl. Literally, that's that air energy.
B
I'm like, okay. I think the best is a Capricorn.
A
Okay? You love a Capricorn dad.
B
You love a Capricorn Dad. Because they know how to take the driver's seat. You know, they do the passenger seat. You know, Cross my legs.
A
Yes.
B
Okay.
A
Best and worst sign for fashion system. This is funny.
B
Worst Libra.
A
Now, what is this Libra? There's this consistency, having women. Libra is supposed to be known for their aesthetic, so I can't believe that you think Libra is the worst.
B
They're indecisive, though. Like, they can never pick one thing. They could pick it and they'll change it and they'll change it again and again. Again. I don't like that howling. But I would say the best at that. I'm gonna say Aquarius.
A
Of course. I could feel the Aquarius kind of.
B
Yes, girl.
A
Okay. Best and worst sign to gossip with now. You know who that needs.
B
You're the best of Virgo, honey.
A
Honey, a Virgo will gossip.
B
A Virgo will lay it all the way down, girl. Honey.
A
Backwards and forwards and everything in between. We're gonna get a sexy and it's never gonna be bitter. Okay. Virgos are always gonna be like, but I wish her well.
B
Right? Exactly. Exactly.
A
I'm not low down like that.
B
No, no, no, no, no.
A
But did you hear about so and so?
B
I'm like, oh, really? Yes. Give me more.
A
It's very pulled up. Yeah.
B
I'm like, mm.
A
To gossip with.
B
I'm saying Aries.
A
Yeah.
B
Because you're like, are you talking shit? I'm like, no, I'm not talking. I'm like, okay. And they make you feel bad about it too, girl. I'm like, oh, sorry.
A
That is exactly the vibe.
B
Yup, yup. I'm like, okay.
A
They're like, are you talking? That was funny as hell. Are you talking shit? Yeah, motherfucker. I am best and worst sign to get into a fight with.
B
Woo, girl. Oh, my God, girl. The best. The best to get into a fight with. Yeah.
A
That's crazy, right?
B
Ooh. I'm the worst of the Capricorn, girl. That mouth. Mouth. Let me tell Capricorn's mouth, girl.
A
I actually feel like Aquarius and cancers are lethal.
B
Oh, girl.
A
And Aquarius will slice you to the core and you will never wake up from it, girl. You know what I mean? Stitching yourself back together.
B
That tongue is sharp. I'm like, girl, it will get there, girl. It will get there. Honey. But a Virgo, too.
A
Honey.
B
We will read in the classy way, though. You know how to read, Honey.
A
We will literally let you know who you are and who you're not.
B
Yep. Ooh.
A
Okay. Best and worst sign to slide into your dm.
B
Well, I got a flashback I'm about to say now.
A
You went somewhere. I know. That's right.
B
Oh, a Scorpio's the best.
A
I just think they're so over hyped at times.
B
Girl, I don't know. Girl, they put that thing on you, girl. Girl, they be fine. Girl, we won't get a fluster. Girl, I live for a Scorpio.
A
I'm trying to think about what is the sexiest to me. You know, Virgos are so weird because we can get into it, but then also we can be so prudent and so pinched.
B
Yes, Virgo.
A
But we're just like, what do you mean? Turned? We need to fucking relax. Yes, I really do. I've been on that tip for myself this year. Like, girl, just let loose.
B
Yes, girl.
A
Thinking about it, girl.
B
Yes, girl. Let your hair down, girl.
A
Maybe I need a Scorpio.
B
You do. Have you had a Scorpio before? Ooh. Ooh.
A
Girl, like, girl, Ah. I think that's what I need.
B
Come on. Yes, you do, girl.
A
Okay. Best and worst sign to have a one night stand.
B
All right.
A
This is a fun one.
B
Okay. I would say the best. The best.
A
It needs to be somebody that's not gonna talk.
B
Exactly. An Aquarius. Yeah, an Aquarius, girl. An Aquarius. Cause we love to mess our do our due and we keep it to ourselves.
A
Very cute, very demure, Very not like the other girls. Aquarius is so. That is so true to everything about them. They have the emotion and they can engage, but they also could be so detached in a way that's, like, relieving, literally.
B
And I love that. I love it because, like, sometimes you mess around, like, oh, was it fun? Was it bad? I forgot about it. I'm like, oh, that happened. Oh, okay. You're like, you know, I love it.
A
Okay, last one. Best and worst sign to have as a best friend.
B
Hmm. Best for me, of course. Capricorn. You know, I love me some Capricorns, but also, like, my close girls, like Capricorns.
A
Virgos, period.
B
You know? And who else is my other clothes and cancer. Cancers. Yeah, I love me Cancers.
A
Mine is actually one of the signs you said was the best was also Leo. Leo, my best friend. Like, I just. Leos are so loyal.
B
They are loyal. So loyal, but they talk about themselves too much.
A
Girla, I love you so much and it needs to be. It needs to be something called Girla.
B
It should I need something girl. Let me write a girl. Let me get to Girla.
A
I'm gonna call you ready to get.
B
Hello period.
A
Thank you for comes to the show.
B
We're gonna Girl, I love you down girl. I'm so proud of you, girl.
A
Baby. Baby, this is. This is Kiki. Baby, this is Kiki Palma. Yeah, enjoy. Baby this is Keke Palmer on the Wondery app, wherever you get your podcasts and now on YouTube where you can watch full episodes. Subscribe to the wondery channel on YouTube and don't miss any episodes. You can listen to Baby this is Keke Palmer early and ad free on Wondery. Join Wondery in the Wondery app or on Apple podcasts. Baby this is Keke Palmer is hosted and executive produced by me, Keke Palmer. Lucas Siegel is our post producer. Music supervisor is Scott Velasquez. Our original theme song was written and performed by me, Keke Palmer for Team Kiki. My personal producer is Sharon Palmer for Wondery. Our managing producer is Olivia Fonti. Senior producers are Tristan McNeil and Candice Manriquez Rinn. Our executive producers are Emily Feld Brake, Dave Easton, Erin O'Flaherty and Marshall Louie.
Baby, This is Keke Palmer: Falling Out, Falling in Love, and Falling for the Wrong Sign with Ricky Thompson
Episode Release Date: April 1, 2025
In this engaging episode of "Baby, This is Keke Palmer," host Keke Palmer delves deep into the complexities of friendship, fame, online personas, and personal relationships with her guest, the multifaceted internet icon, Ricky Thompson. Their candid conversation spans various topics, offering listeners profound insights into maintaining authentic connections amidst the tumultuous landscape of social media and public life.
Keke and Ricky kick off their conversation by exploring the intricacies of friendship, especially under the scrutiny of public attention. They discuss the importance of maintaining a tight-knit circle and the challenges that arise when disagreements occur.
Notable Quote:
Ricky emphasizes the value of open communication, stating that addressing conflicts head-on strengthened their bond. They also reflect on the pressures of being constantly compared to other duos, debunking the notion that their friendship resembles famous pairs like Tia and Tamera.
The duo delves into the challenges of maintaining relevance in the ever-evolving digital landscape. Ricky shares his journey from a Vine superstar to collaborating with major fashion campaigns, highlighting the strategic moves required to sustain a personal brand.
Notable Quote:
Keke parallels this with her own experience, emphasizing the importance of producing original content to showcase one's talents beyond fleeting social media trends.
Ricky opens up about his experiences with bullying during his school years, shedding light on the struggles of hiding one's true self in a non-accepting environment. His journey toward embracing his identity underscores the resilience required to overcome societal pressures.
Notable Quote:
The conversation poignantly captures the emotional turmoil of coming out and the eventual acceptance from loved ones, offering solace to listeners facing similar challenges.
Keke and Ricky discuss their approaches to dating, emphasizing the need for partners who appreciate their authentic selves. They delve into their respective love languages, highlighting the significance of physical touch and words of affirmation in fostering meaningful connections.
Notable Quotes:
Their dialogue touches upon the challenges of dating in the public eye, where external expectations often clash with personal desires.
The episode delves into how fame can strain personal relationships, with Ricky and Keke sharing anecdotes about balancing public personas with private lives. They discuss the anxiety of maintaining friendships and romantic relationships when every interaction is under the microscope.
Notable Quote:
This segment underscores the delicate balance between public visibility and personal privacy, highlighting the measures celebrities take to protect their loved ones from unwanted attention.
Both Keke and Ricky express their ambitions to transition into traditional media roles, such as acting and hosting. They discuss the barriers faced by social media personalities attempting to break into established entertainment industries and offer strategies for leveraging their online presence to secure traditional media opportunities.
Notable Quote:
Keke shares her success story of creating her own content to gain recognition, advocating for proactive creation over passive participation in traditional auditions.
In a lighter segment, Keke and Ricky engage in a playful discussion about zodiac signs, revealing their preferences and pet peeves. This segment adds a personal and humorous touch to the episode, offering listeners a glimpse into their personalities.
Notable Quotes:
Their banter showcases the fun side of their friendship, juxtaposing the more serious themes discussed earlier in the episode.
Towards the end of the episode, Ricky and Keke reflect on their personal growth and accomplishments over the years. They express gratitude for their supportive teams and outline their aspirations for the future, including securing dream roles and continuing to evolve their personal brands.
Notable Quote:
This segment emphasizes the importance of having a reliable support system in achieving one's goals, especially in the competitive entertainment industry.
This episode of "Baby, This is Keke Palmer" offers a multifaceted look into Ricky Thompson's life, from his struggles with bullying and maintaining authentic relationships to his strategies for staying relevant and his aspirations for the future. Keke Palmer's insightful interviewing style brings out genuine and heartfelt responses, making this episode a compelling listen for anyone navigating the challenges of fame, friendship, and personal growth.
Listeners can find "Baby, This is Keke Palmer" on the Wondery App, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube, where full episodes are available for streaming.