Podcast Summary: CHEERS! with Avery Woods – Episode: Staying Relevant | Rocky Barnes

Release Date: April 28, 2025

Introduction

In this engaging episode of CHEERS! with Avery Woods, host Avery Woods sits down with longtime follower and multifaceted influencer Rocky Barnes. As a model, content creator, entrepreneur, podcast host, and mother of two, Rocky shares her journey through the evolving landscape of social media, balancing personal life with a thriving career, and strategies for staying relevant in a fast-paced digital world.

Rocky's Early Career and Modeling

Rocky Barnes began her career in the early days of social media, starting around 2010. Growing up in Manhattan Beach, California, she pursued her passion for fashion despite her father's reservations, who, being an aerospace engineer, preferred a more traditional educational path for her. Rocky attended San Diego State University, majoring in international business marketing and communications, which later proved instrumental in her success as a social media influencer.

At [05:40], Rocky reminisces about her initial foray into modeling:

"I was scouted, started modeling... driving back and forth from San Diego to LA like five days a week. It was hustling."

Her modeling career took off as she worked with renowned brands like Billabong and Prana Yoga, traveling to exotic locations such as Tahiti, Fiji, Australia, and Morocco. These experiences not only honed her modeling skills but also laid the groundwork for her later success in the influencer space.

Transition to Social Media Influence

Facing dissatisfaction with the rigid standards of the modeling industry, Rocky transitioned to using Instagram as her personal portfolio. She began posting authentic photos that resonated with her true self, steering away from the traditional model aesthetics. At [07:04], she explains:

"I started using Instagram as my own personal portfolio, totally posting all the photos I liked."

This shift allowed Rocky to embrace a more genuine representation of herself, attracting a dedicated following. Her marketing background played a crucial role in her ability to strategically grow her online presence, turning her passion into a sustainable career.

Personal Journey: Marriage and Divorce

Rocky's personal life intertwined with her professional journey when she married her first husband at 25. Their relationship eventually faced challenges due to differing career aspirations and life goals. At [09:07], Rocky shares:

"It wasn't going to be a partnership, it was always going to be a hierarchy... This isn't going to work."

The decision to divorce was one of the hardest choices she made, but it allowed her to focus on her career and personal happiness. This pivotal moment marked the beginning of a new chapter, paving the way for her current marriage and thriving family life.

Finding a New Partner and Business Partnership

After her divorce, Rocky met her current husband, Matt, serendipitously at a concert in Brooklyn. Initially disclosing her impending divorce, Rocky was upfront about her situation, which Matt appreciated. Their relationship blossomed as they collaborated professionally, opening a dumpling shop named Stuffed on Melrose. Although the restaurant faced challenges and eventually shut down, Matt supported Rocky in organizing her business endeavors, including transitioning her social media management.

At [11:08], Rocky reflects on their partnership:

"He ended up helping me out doing that... It grew from there."

Their collaboration extended to photography, with Matt taking over as Rocky's photographer, allowing her to continue creating compelling content while balancing family life.

Staying Relevant in the Social Media Era

Rocky offers insightful perspectives on the evolution of social media, highlighting the shift from a collaborative environment to one focused on individual branding. At [15:56], she notes:

"Back in the day, the reason we all grew so much is that we were all lifting each other up."

She criticizes the modern obsession with perfect curation, which often leads to a fragmented and competitive atmosphere. However, Rocky embraces the current trend towards authenticity and raw content, finding solace in sharing unfiltered moments that resonate more deeply with her audience.

Balancing Career and Motherhood

Becoming a mother significantly reshaped Rocky's priorities and approach to her career. With two young children, she emphasizes the importance of family time and the challenges of maintaining a professional presence online. At [32:29], Rocky shares:

"I say no to a lot more jobs... I don't just go on trips to go on a trip anymore. It has to be worth me leaving my family."

This balance is further facilitated by her collaboration with Matt, allowing them to support each other's careers while nurturing their family. Rocky highlights the emotional connection with her audience as both a strength and a source of pressure, especially when supporting her family's financial needs.

Fashion and Styling Insights

A passionate fashion enthusiast, Rocky delves into her approach to styling and wardrobe essentials. She emphasizes understanding one's body proportions as the foundation of effective styling. At [43:55], she advises:

"Understanding your body and the proportions of your body is really the most important."

Rocky's styling philosophy revolves around creating versatile outfits that are both chic and accessible, regardless of budget. She takes pride in transforming affordable pieces into stylish ensembles, demonstrating that personal style doesn't have to break the bank. Additionally, she advocates for tailoring garments to achieve a perfect fit, ensuring longevity and versatility in one's wardrobe.

Staying Relevant: Strategies and Philosophy

Rocky's enduring relevance in the influencer space is attributed to her consistent growth, authentic engagement with her audience, and adaptability to changes in social media trends. At [52:35], she reflects:

"I think I'm consistent. I'm always getting inspired... I think I'm always trying to do it in a different way and in a unique way."

Her ability to evolve with the platform while maintaining her unique voice has fostered a loyal community. Rocky believes that steady growth and a deep emotional connection with her followers are key to sustaining her influence over time.

Future Projects and Personal Insights

Looking ahead, Rocky is excited about upcoming projects and trips, particularly once her ACL surgery heals. She hints at potential collaborations and adventures that align with her passion for the beach and outdoor activities. Despite facing industry uncertainties like tariffs affecting production, Rocky remains optimistic and open to new opportunities, driven by her love for her work and dedication to her family.

Conclusion

Rocky Barnes' journey from a model to a successful influencer and entrepreneur underscores the importance of authenticity, adaptability, and resilience in staying relevant. Her experiences offer valuable lessons on balancing personal life with a demanding career, the evolution of social media, and the enduring power of genuine connections. Through her candid conversations, Rocky inspires listeners to embrace their true selves while navigating the complexities of the digital age.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps:

• [07:04] Rocky Barnes: "I started using Instagram as my own personal portfolio, totally posting all the photos I liked."

• [09:07] Rocky Barnes: "It wasn't going to be a partnership, it was always going to be a hierarchy... This isn't going to work."

• [15:56] Rocky Barnes: "Back in the day, the reason we all grew so much is that we were all lifting each other up."

• [32:29] Rocky Barnes: "I say no to a lot more jobs... I don't just go on trips to go on a trip anymore. It has to be worth me leaving my family."

• [43:55] Rocky Barnes: "Understanding your body and the proportions of your body is really the most important."

• [52:35] Rocky Barnes: "I think I'm consistent. I'm always getting inspired... I think I'm always trying to do it in a different way and in a unique way."

Where to Find Rocky Barnes:

• Instagram: @rockybarns
• Blog: RockyBarnsBlog.com
• TikTok: Rocky Barnes
• Podcast: Mulholland Drive

This summary captures the essence of Rocky Barnes' conversation on the "Staying Relevant" episode, highlighting her professional journey, personal insights, and strategies for maintaining influence in a dynamic social media landscape.