On this episode of No Rescue, host Lame Kinikini sits down with international tattoo phenom Sofia Souza to unpack a story most people never hear.
Born in Italy with Brazilian roots, raised by a WWII survivor grandma and a hippie mom, Sofia grew up lonely, independent, and forced to become her own anchor. From selling trinkets in the Italian sun and working night shifts at 16, to dropping out of college, moving to Berlin with nothing, and teaching herself tattooing from a kitchen table — Sofia’s path was anything but easy.
She opens up about abusive relationships, suicidal years, and the moment she realized nobody was coming to rescue her. That “no rescue” moment became the fuel for building a world-class tattoo career, immigrating to the U.S., and creating a life she genuinely loves. If you’ve ever felt stuck, alone, or like your circumstances define you, this conversation is a masterclass in turning pain into power, rejecting victim mentality, and betting on yourself when there is no Plan B.
Guest: Sofia Souza – international tattoo artist & educator
Host: Lame Kinikini
Production Company: Sipo Studios