Staying Afloat, Staying Inked
For Levi Stocke, tattoos have never been a trend. They are a timeline. A language. A quiet warning and a loud declaration all at once.
Born in Florida and raised between Tennessee and Missouri, Levi was exposed to tattoo culture early. One of his strongest influences was his great uncle, whose Navy traditional tattoos left a lasting impression. “I always took notice,” Levi says. “By the time I was 12, I knew I would be getting tattooed as soon as I could.”
That early fascination grew into a lifelong commitment to the culture, one that reflects both personal growth and hard-earned experience.
From First Tattoo to Full Commitment
Despite years of anticipation, Levi’s first tattoo was far from perfect. “You would think after all those years planning I would have come up with something great,” he said. “But being a kid and new to it, I started with a dice with wings.”
Like many first tattoos, it did not age well. That piece has since been covered by a Rock of Ages back piece, a turning point that changed how Levi approached tattooing. From that moment on, each piece became more intentional, marking chapters rather than impulses.
Tattoos With Meaning and Survival Lessons
While Levi believes not every tattoo needs deep meaning, one piece carries a message that has followed him for more than a decade. A large traditional shark on his leg features the words Stay Afloat, a reminder inked shortly after moving to Los Angeles and entering the entertainment industry.
“This place is full of sharks,” Levi explains. “If you let your ship sink, or let down your guard, you will get eaten alive.”
Fifteen years later, the message still holds weight. “The sharks are still here,” he says, “but so am I.”
Life Beyond the Ink
When he is not working, Levi keeps his family life private and grounded. Time with his daughter comes first. Outside of that, his passions reflect a love for craftsmanship and classic American style. He spends his free time riding his motorcycle, restoring his ’67 Camaro, or working on his ’73 Squarebody.
Though his lifestyle leans luxury, there is an unexpected side to him. “I love luxury,” Levi admits, “but my guilty pleasure is that I’m a theme park junkie.” The contrast does not bother him. “It goes against not liking crowded places, but something about them is incredible to me.”
What’s Next in Ink
When it comes to new tattoos, Levi is never truly finished. He is currently considering western-inspired ideas for the space above his sternum, continuing to build a collection that evolves alongside him.
Building Brands With Purpose
Beyond tattoos, Levi Stocke is focused on building brands that reflect discipline, confidence, and longevity. He is the force behind REBEL RITUAL, a brand centered on under-eye care, and RENVIR, a streamlined skincare regimen designed specifically for men.
Next on the horizon is RAWpath, an all-natural supplement company aimed at supporting health and performance from the inside out.
A Full-Circle Moment With Inked
Being named Inked Man of the Month is a milestone Levi does not take lightly. “I’m very honored,” he says. “I’ve looked through Inked Magazine since I was a kid and always loved it. It embodies tattoo culture.”
For Levi Stocke, tattoos are more than ink on skin. They are proof of resilience, intention, and survival. In a world full of sharks, staying afloat is not just a lesson. It is a lifestyle.
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