Meet Ralyn Barker

We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Ralyn Barker. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Ralyn below.

Ralyn, thank you so much for joining us today. Let’s jump right into something we’re really interested in hearing about from you – being the only one in the room. So many of us find ourselves as the only woman in the room, the only immigrant or the only artist in the room, etc. Can you talk to us about how you have learned to be effective and successful in situations where you are the only one in the room like you?

That is precisely why I’m effective and successful, very few who live in my town look like me. I stand out for a reason. It can be isolating at times and feel like I’m carrying v the weight of representation, but I rise to the challenge. It’s taught me how to own my voice, stand confidently in who I am, and navigate spaces with both strength and fortitude.”I always get told, “I could never pull that look off, you’re brave, gutsy, etc”. I love to reply with, ” whether you believe you can or believe you can’t, you’re right. ” it’s all in your belief in yourself. Are you confident in your self? I don’t conform to societal norms, I’m 46 have tons of tattoos and piercings, love animal print and have obnoxiously colored hair. I’m a hairstylist so that’s part of the reason but the other part is that’s who I am. I’m different, unique, eclectic, obnoxious and quirky. I’ve learned to build connections based on shared goals, listen actively, and use my unique perspective to offer insights that others might not see.
Honestly, it’s turned me into a bit of a secret weapon. I don’t just blend in—I shake things up, ask the questions nobody else is asking, and refuse to apologize for seeing the world sideways. If I’m the only one in the room like me, that room’s about to get interesting.

Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?

I was born and raised 5th generation in Jackson, WY. At 19, I knew I wouldn’t be able to afford to stay so I had to figure out a path and a plan. I moved to Cheyenne in 1998 and started Cosmetology school. I knew I was going to do something different but at that time I had no idea what that looked like. Over the years I’ve developed my own style, vibe, and tribe. I’ve now been a hairstylist for 26 years, an OG as they say. I run an unfiltered, unapologetic salon where the vibes are as real as the hair is fabulous. What do I do? I make people feel powerful—whether it’s through killer color, bold cuts, or just giving them a space where they can be 100% themselves without judgment (and with a lot of laughter).

What’s special? It’s not just the services—it’s the culture. We don’t do stiff, quiet beauty appointments. We talk, we laugh, we might overshare a little, and we definitely challenge the idea of what a salon should be.

Right now, I’m super excited about creative color work—whether it’s lived-in dimension or neon fantasy. If you can dream it (or if you want me to dream it for you), we’re making it happen.

My brand isn’t just hair—it’s rebellion, confidence, and creativity wrapped in a cape and spun around in a chair.

Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?

1. Emotional Intelligence (with a dash of sarcasm): Knowing when to hype someone up, when to shut up and listen, and when to gently tell someone that chunky highlights are not making a comeback (yet). Reading people is half the job.

2. Creative Vision: Whether it’s mixing the perfect shade or planning a total hair transformation, you’ve got to see the big picture before the client even knows what they want. Bonus points if you can do it without spilling bleach on your shoes.

3. Adaptability: Clients change their minds, trends evolve, and sometimes your 2 p.m. shows up with box dye from three days ago. You roll with it, fix it, and make it look effortless. That’s the magic.

How would you describe your ideal client?

My ideal client is someone who’s down for a little chaos, a lot of honesty, and trusts the process—even if that process involves foils, caffeine, and mild emotional therapy. I love people who aren’t afraid to try something new, who respect my time and skills, and who can handle a little sass with their service.

Bonus points if they show up on time, bring snacks, and understand that I’m not just doing their hair—I’m creating art, managing emotions, and probably saving them from a bang trim they’ll regret in two days.

Basically, if you’re kind, open-minded, and cool with vibing while I transform your head—you’re my kind of people.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.twistedbeauty.pro
• Instagram: Twistedbeautywyo
• Facebook: https://Www.facebook.com/twistedbeauty44