How to Access, Survive and Thrive in the Tattoo Industry, Today! Join tattoo shop owners Paul-Anthony Surdi and Gabe Jaksich as they dive into the trials and tribulations of the Tattoo Industry. Every other week they bring in guest tattoo artists to discuss not only income and best practices, but also life in the industry. Whether it's learning about the art of the hustle, navigating change and adulthood in the industry, or starting your first apprenticeship, Ink Different has you covered. T ...
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Tattoo Apprenticeships Podcasts
About Adam Facenda: With a tattoo machine in hand for over two decades, Adam Facenda is not just a tattoo artist; he's a second-generation tattooer deeply rooted in the art form. Since 2008, he's been more than just tat zapping; he's been the visionary behind tattoo studios, cultivating vibrant spaces where tattooing transcends mere body art to become a form of personal expression and storytelling. Adam's journey in the tattoo industry began with an apprenticeship passed down through Eric De ...
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Let's talk about life.
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Short podcast that covers a variety of topics. They range from random thoughts that are in my head, opinions over world events, funny stories that have happened in my life and anything my heart desires.
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A podcast about the intersections of tattooing, with dope ass guest artists.
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Send us a text Adam reflects on the political noise, youth anger, and the way social media stirs division. He shares personal stories, faith, and practical ways to shift from outrage to understanding, with a reminder to choose kindness, open conversations, and mental health. Description: In this episode of Anchors and Eagles, Adam looks past party …
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Honest conversations unlock new viewpoints
15:26
15:26
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15:26Send us a text In this episode of Anchors and Eagles, Adam Facenda gets honest about finding direction when life feels chaotic. He focuses on taking ownership, protecting mental health, and using faith and purpose to push back against negativity. The theme is simple and powerful. Honest conversations unlock new viewpoints. What you will hear • Only…
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Navigating the Intersection of AI and Mental Health
20:49
20:49
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20:49Send us a text In this episode, Adam Facenda explores the evolution of Anchors and Eagles, reflecting on the growing role of AI in mental health, creativity, and daily life. Adam shares personal experiences with technology, emphasizing its potential as a tool for productivity and innovation while warning against the dangers of over-reliance. This e…
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From Street Fights to Jiu-Jitsu Mastery | Faith & Fighting with Vincent Werner
51:25
51:25
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51:25Send us a text In this episode of Anchors and Eagles, Adam Facenda sits down with his longtime friend Vincent Werner to explore the journey from street fights to Jiu-Jitsu mastery. They delve into how martial arts evolved beyond self-defense, transforming into a path of faith, mentorship, and healing. Vincent reflects on teaching and mentoring othe…
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Breaking the Silence: Men’s Mental Health Matters | Anchors and Eagles S2 E3
14:51
14:51
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14:51Send us a text In this episode of Anchors and Eagles, Adam Facenda addresses the alarming rise in suicide rates among men and the societal pressures that often prevent open conversations about mental health. From the importance of self-care and boundaries to the therapeutic impact of tattooing, Adam shares insights on how connection, shared experie…
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Unmasking Strength: Men's Mental Health and Societal Pressures
16:17
16:17
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16:17Send us a text In this episode of Anchors and Eagles, host Adam Facenda continues the conversation on men’s mental health — exploring the unspoken pressures, personal challenges, and emotional roadblocks men often face. Through honest storytelling and candid insight, Adam breaks down the myths around masculinity and opens the door for real, healing…
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Send us a text In this podcast, Adam Facenda shares his personal journey of starting a new podcast focused on men's mental health. He reflects on his experiences with mental health, the importance of being vocal about struggles, and the societal expectations placed on men regarding emotions. Adam emphasizes the importance of open conversations abou…
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Secrets from Tattoo Rescue Revealed! w/ Joey Tattoo
1:00:58
1:00:58
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1:00:58Ever wonder how reality tattoo shows like Tattoo Rescue actually get started? Spoiler alert: it involves a Jersey guy yelling at a film crew and accidentally becoming a TV star. 😂 In this episode, hosts Paul-Anthony Surdi and Chico Cortez sit down with Joey Tattoo—tattoo shop owner, TV personality, emcee, and all-around industry OG—to talk about: 🎬…
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Tattoo Master to Legend: Gill Montie Drops BOMBS on the Industry, Tupac, and More
55:33
55:33
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55:33Get ready for a wild ride through tattoo history with a living legend. In this unforgettable episode, hosts Chico Cortez and Gabe Jaksich sit down with none other than Gil “The Drill” Montie and his wife Gemma Montie (and Luna, his pet guardian) to talk about everything—from the roots of American tattooing to Tupac, biker life, Hollywood stories, a…
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How the Tattoo Industry WAS TRANSFORMED for Women w/ Peggy Hurley & Lauren Klose
50:09
50:09
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50:09The tattoo world hasn’t always been welcoming to women, but that’s changing fast, thanks to artists like Peggi Hurley and Lauren Klose. 💪🎨 In this powerful episode, hosts Paul-Anthony Surdi, Chico Cortez, and Gabe Jaksich sit down with these two trailblazing Tattoo Artists to talk about how women are reshaping the tattoo industry from the inside ou…
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What you DIDN’T know about Tattoo Conventions w/ Legion Avegno
45:54
45:54
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45:54Think tattoo conventions are just about showing off ink and slingin’ tats? Think again. 👀 In this episode, hosts Paul-Anthony Surdi, Chico Cortez, and Gabe Jaksich sit down with Legion Avegno—tattoo artist, shop owner, and convention runner—to pull back the curtain on the real world of tattoo conventions. 🎪 Here’s what we get into: 🔥 Why every seri…
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Tattooing for the MONEY or THE CRAFT? w/ Jime Litwalker and Ryan Eternal
1:07:30
1:07:30
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1:07:30Are you in it for the love of tattooing—or for the likes? 💸🎨 In this episode of the podcast, hosts Chico Cortez and Gabe Jaksich sit down with two world-renowned tattoo legends—Jime Litwalk and Mat Ryan from Eternal Ink—to get real about the motives, mindsets, and future of the tattoo industry. 🔥 We’re diving into: — Passion vs. Fame: Why did you s…
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CRAZY NEW TECH for tattoo aftercare?? w/ Scott Martin
50:48
50:48
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50:48You ever wonder what’s really in that numbing cream or aftercare lotion you're putting on your fresh ink? Well, we got you! In this episode, hosts Paul-Anthony Surdi, Gabe Jaksich, and Chico Cortez sit down with the one and only Scott Martin—OG Tattoo Artist, tattpp shops owner, and founder of Ikonik Tattoo Care—to dive into the future of tattoo af…
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Ink Master TOYED WITH THEM! Was it worth it?? w/ Mark Longnecker & Roly T-Rex
35:07
35:07
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35:07🔥 What’s it REALLY like to compete on Ink Master? Ink Master alumni Roly T-Rex & Mark Longenecker join hosts Gabe Jaksich & Chico Cortez to share behind-the-scenes stories, career lessons, and how they’re giving back to the tattoo community. 💉 Topics Covered: ✔️ Ink Master experience – challenges, wins, and lessons learned. ✔️ How reality TV change…
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E15 The TRUTH for Women Tattoo Entrepreneurs
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49:37
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49:37🔥 Women in the Tattoo Industry Speak Out! 🔥 In this episode of the podcast our cohosts Paul-Anthony Surdi and Chico Cortez sit down with Tattoo Model Vany Vicious and Tattoo Artist Taylor Demers to talk about their journeys in the tattoo industry—breaking barriers, facing challenges, and thriving as women in a male-dominated field. 💉 Topics Covered…
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E14 Experts reveal the TRUTH about Black and Gray Realism
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1:01:00Black & Gray Realism is one of the most sought-after tattoo styles at the moment—but what’s the REAL story behind it? 🤔 In this episode of the Ink Different Tattoos Podcast, we sit down with Black & Gray experts Marcel Oliveira and Anthony Medina to break down the biggest debates, business strategies, and industry insights that every Tattoo Artist …
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🔥🧛♂️ BONUS EPISODE ALERT! 🧛♂️🔥 In this special bonus episode, tattooist and vampyre Miguel Valentin spills the tea on one of the most EPIC tattoo experiences of his career at a Philly convention. 🎨✨ From tackling a wild and challenging design to showing how committed he is to his craft, Miguel shares the highs, the challenges, and how it all turn…
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E13 Interview with a REAL LIFE VAMPIRE
1:14:44
1:14:44
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1:14:44🚨🔥 Kicking off 2025 with an episode you do not want to miss! 🔥🚨 Join hosts Paul-Anthony Surdi, Gabe Jaksich, and Chico Cortez as they sit down for an unforgettable chat with Miguel Valentin—a tattooist, ex-con, and a member of the real-life vampyre community. 🦇💉 We'll be talking about his wild journey into the tattoo industry, his transformative ti…
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E12 How I Made Tattooing Safer for Women w/ Frankie Scorpion
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44:41
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44:41🎙️ Welcome to Episode 12 of the Ink Different Tattoos Podcast! In this episode, we sit down with the incredible Tattoo Socialite Frankie Scorpion, a game-changer in the tattoo industry, as she shares how she’s making tattooing safer and more inclusive for women. 🖤 From creating resources for domestic violence survivors to tackling taboo topics like…
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E11 How to Choose the best Tattoo Conventions for YOU w/ Lisa Brodeur-Quinter & Chino Gonzalez
1:17:20
1:17:20
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1:17:20🚀 Ready to level up your tattoo career? In this value-packed episode, hosts Paul-Anthony Surdi and Chico Cortez are joined by Lisa Brodeur-Quinter and Chino Gonzalez to explore everything you need to know about tattoo conventions. This episode has tips and tricks to help you make the most of your convention experience. 🌟 What You’ll Discover in Epi…
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E10 Don't get Robbed by POS's w/ Adam Facenda
1:00:44
1:00:44
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1:00:44In this episode, we sit down with Tattoo Artist and tattoo shop Owner Adam Facenda, creator of Keep The Fees—a software designed specifically for tattoo shops. Adam shares his experience managing a tattoo studio and the challenges of handling administrative tasks as a Tattoo Artist. He talks about how his software Keep The Fees came about, and how …
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E9 The SECRETS of Tattoo Marketing that WORK w/ Ink Link
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44:43
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44:43In this episode of Ink Different Tattoos, we’re diving deep into the mysteries of tattoo marketing with expert Jesse Drach from Ink Link, a specialized marketing company for tattoo shops! Join Tattoo Artists Chico Cortez, Gabe Jaksich, and Bloody Ally as they grill Ink Link on everything that works (and what doesn’t) in today’s fast-paced industry.…
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E8 Old Tattoo Styles vs New Styles WHAT WORKS w/ Moony & Bloody Ally
50:20
50:20
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50:20Join Gabe Jaksich as he chats with Chico Cortez, Moony, and Bloody Ally about everything from Traditional tattoos to the latest trends like Anime, Fine Line, Watercolor, and Kawaii! 🖌️✨ We’re breaking down the difference between timeless styles and trends, plus talking about tattoo flash, custom designs, and more. Whether you love old-school ink or…
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E7 Why Woman Tattoo Artist have it DIFFERENT w/ Moony & Bloody Ally
29:12
29:12
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29:12Join our host, Paul-Anthony Surdi, in this exciting episode of the Ink Different Tattoos Podcast as he sits down with three incredibly talented Tattoo Artists—Chico Cortez, Bloody Ally, and Moony! They dive deep into what it’s like to be a woman in the tattoo industry, sharing their experiences from tattoo apprenticeships to navigating studio life …
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E6 The Secrets of Customer Relations in Tattooing w/ Loco Dharma & Chico Cortez
40:59
40:59
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40:59Ready to level up your tattoo business? In this episode of Ink Different Tattoos, we’re revealing how to master client relations to build lasting connections and keep clients coming back! From creating a comfortable vibe to communicating like a pro, we’re sharing insider tips from seasoned Tattoo Artists on delivering an unforgettable client experi…
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Thriving in a Slow Season: Strategies for Tattoo Artists
33:46
33:46
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33:46Send us a text In this episode of Anchors & Eagles, Adam Facenda explores tattoo artists' strategies for surviving and thriving during slow economic seasons. He discusses the invaluable lessons learned during apprenticeships, the importance of consistent advertising (especially during tough times), and how engaging with existing clients can help gr…
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E5 How to Start YOUR Tattoo Career w/ Chico Cortez
1:18:15
1:18:15
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1:18:15In this episode of the Ink Different Tattoos Podcast, we share everything you need to know about launching a successful career as a professional Tattoo Artist. This episode covers the key steps to becoming a tattoo artist, the importance of choosing the right Tattoo Apprenticeship, and how Ink Different guarantees job offers upon completion. Learn …
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Send us a text In this episode, Adam Facenda discusses different ways to become a tattoo artist. He advises against going to tattoo schools and instead recommends a one-on-one apprenticeship. He emphasizes the importance of being prepared to do repetitive work and open to different art styles. Adam suggests hanging out in tattoo shops, getting tatt…
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E4 Tattoo Conventions Do's and Don'ts w/ Loco Dharma & Chico Cortez
50:30
50:30
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50:30Welcome to Episode 4 of the Ink Different Podcast! 🎙️ Join us as we discuss the awesome world of tattoo conventions with tattoo industry experts Chico Cortez and Loco Dharma! This episode is packed with essential do's and don'ts for tattoo artists, touching topics from setting up a standout booth to mastering the art of networking. We also explore …
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Back to the Grind: Navigating Business Challenges and Rediscovering Passion
9:56
9:56
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9:56Send us a text In this long-awaited return to "Anchors and Eagles," Adam Facenda opens up about the rollercoaster of the past year. From closing one of his beloved tattoo studios to returning to full-time tattooing, Adam delves deep into the realities of balancing business, personal life, and passion projects like this podcast. In this episode, Ada…
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E3 Be Your Own Boss As Tattoo Artist w/ Chico Cortez
1:02:58
1:02:58
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1:02:58Get ready for a fun and insightful chat with Chico Cortez, a tattoo artist who knows all about being your own boss as a Tattoo Artist with more than 30 years of experience in the tattoo industry. We talk about tattoo conventions, sharing what goes down during and after these events, and how to spot scams. Chico shares about his career beginnings an…
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E2 Immigration as a Tattoo Artist w/ José Gaddi
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38:16
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38:16In this episode of the Ink Different Tattoos podcast, we explore the stories of tattoo artists who face the challenges of immigration. "Immigration as a Tattoo Artist" features Gabe Jaksich and Jose Gaddi, who have journeyed from Argentina to establish their careers in the tattoo industry in the USA. Covering from cultural adjustments to legal obst…
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E1: Fatherhood as a Tattoo Artist w/ José Gaddi
29:35
29:35
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29:35Welcome to the inaugural episode of the Ink Different Tattoos podcast! In this episode "Fatherhood and Education w/ José Gaddi," we’ll learn about the unique connection between being a father and a tattoo artist. Tattoo artists Jose Gotti and Gabe Jaksich share their experiences, balancing their role as fathers with their passion for tattooing. The…
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What's Up with 'Anchors and Eagles'? - Adam Facenda Spills the Beans
17:52
17:52
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17:52Send us a text Hey there, listeners! It's me, Adam Facenda, your trusty host at 'Anchors and Eagles'. Ever wondered what's going on behind this mic? Well, buckle up, because you're about to find out! 🚀 In This Episode: The Real Deal: Why do I even do this podcast? Spoiler: It's not just for my love of talking. Peek Into the Future: I've got plans, …
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Promoting health and wellness in the tattoo industry. With Adam Facenda and Jordan Signorelli
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50:04Send us a text In this conversation, Jordan Signorelli @jordan_tattooerHealthClub talks about his journey into the tattoo community and his passion for promoting health and wellness in the industry. He discusses his challenges growing up and how he overcame them to become a successful tattoo artist and advocate for change. Jordan emphasizes the imp…
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Can tattoos have a healing effect? Conversation with Adam Facenda and George Munoz -tattoo artist
1:08:36
1:08:36
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1:08:36Send us a text In this conversation, tattoo artist George Munoz discusses the concept of tattoo therapy, which combines tattooing and counseling to help clients process emotions and heal from trauma. Munoz shares his journey of using tattooing as a therapeutic outlet and explains how he developed a program incorporating therapeutic techniques into …
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Are Apprenticeships Obsolete? With Jalen Frizzell
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54:40
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54:40This week Vegas is joined by tattooer Jalen Frizzell aka fuzzywuzzums. They chat about how apprenticeships have traditionally been violent and predatory. Exploring the benefits of a traditional apprenticeship, the process of obtaining an apprenticeship, as well as personal experiences with apprenticeships as Black tattooers. Relevant links: Fuzzywu…
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Riri Stars and Tattoo Trends: With Krys Ink
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56:09
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56:09This week, Vegas is joined by tattooer, friend and studio mate Krys to chat all things tattoo trends. From Rihanna-inspired sternum tattoos to their most embarrassing trendy tattoos, they break down trends over the years and look at where the industry is going. Relevant links: Krys Ink The Teardown is an editaudio Original podcast. This episode was…
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Revitalizing Tā Moko and Reclaiming Maori Tattooing: With Julie Paama Pengelly
1:02:19
1:02:19
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1:02:19This week Vegas is joined by Tā Moko artist, painter and organizer Julie Paama-Pengelly to talk about the revitalization of the Maori art of tattooing. They talk about how the history of colonization has impacted the art and how the practice and Maori identity is being reclaimed. Relevant links: Julie Paama Pengelly Art Body Creative Studio The Tea…
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Sobriety and Tattooing: With Faith Alexandra Marie
42:46
42:46
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42:46Tattoo culture has largely centered itself with substances but could things be changing? This week Vegas sits down with Faith Alexandra Marie aka Needle Imprints to discuss navigating the tattoo industry as a sober person. They chat about building community in ways that don’t center around substances and talk about how building a spiritual practice…
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Trauma Informed Tattooing: With Tamara Santibañez
1:09:27
1:09:27
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1:09:27This episode Vegas sits down with interdisciplinary artist, oral historian and tattooer Tamara Santibañez. They discuss how the tattoo industry has been largely unsafe for women, non-men and racialized folks and explore how to integrate trauma-informed practices within tattooing. They also unpack the ways in which the idea of "safe spaces" have bee…
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In this episode, Vegas sets intentions for the second season of The Teardown. They have an intimate conversation with the audience about experiences in tattooing as well as their relationship to the practice now. They’ll talk about the highs and lows, and about how they’d like to rekindle the flame they once had for the artform. The Teardown is an …
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Send us a text I am proud to announce a new chapter in my life. A brief description of what's to come. follow for more content @anchors_and_eaglesBy ADAM
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Owning Your Own Shop: With Tiff Lee
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1:03:31
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1:03:31In the final episode of this season, I sit down with Tiff Lee, owner of Heartstrong Tattoo shop in Toronto. We chat about what made us want to open our own shops and talk about ways we’re creating a new, more inclusive tattoo community. Content Warning: This episode contains talk of anti-black racism, police brutality, and drug use. Feel free to sk…
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Spirituality and Tattooing: With Joey Ramona
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53:49
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53:49This week I’m joined by Joey Ramona, a queer Jewish tattooer out of Toronto’s Corner Pocket. In this episode they talk about how they incorporate religion into their tattooing practice and share their experience of starting out as one of the few Jewish tattooers in the city. Content Warning: This episode contains examples of anti-semitism and menti…
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Self Reflection Vs. Desirability as a Black Tattooer: With Obsidian
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49:53
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49:53This episode I chat with Asheville tattooer, multidisciplinary artist, DJ and herbalist Obsidian. We discuss how black artists are far too often pigeonholed into one art form and break down how white supremacy has distanced us from our traditional art forms. Links: Obsidian @maybeheaven Linnea (Obsidian’s mentor) Imani k brown @ipukekawaii Flesh an…
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Fatness in Tattooing with Carrie Metz Caporusso
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48:35
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48:35This episode I sit down with Michigan-based artist Carrie Metz Caporusso. Carrie is well known for their ‘roll flowers’, intricate floral designs that are placed in and around the creases of body rolls. In this episode they explain how they came up with the concept ‘roll flowers’ and we discuss the lack of representation of fat bodies in the tattoo…
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Afro-Americana Tattoos with Aaron Davis-Holloway
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56:49
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56:49This episode I’m joined by Aaron Davis-Holloway, a friend and tattooer out of Atlanta. Aaron is known for his Afro-Americana style. In this episode we talk about how he developed his style and why it’s important to recognize and name this new (but not new) genre of tattooing. Links: Vegas Ink Aaron Davis Tattoos Afro-Americana Tattoos Kayla Diamond…
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Staying Grounded and Maintaining Boundaries
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1:06:30This episode I’m chatting with my friend, professional tarot reader and fellow co-owner of Tru Tattoo Shop, Sam Daveena. We chat about how maintaining firm boundaries can preserve your love for tattooing and Sam shares some of her secrets for staying grounded in a job that can get pretty personal (can you get more personal than a tarot reading?). L…
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Case of the Ex : Dating in the Tattoo Industry
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47:00We start the season off with a little spice as I invite my ex Dylan (tendertatting)onto the show to address some recent controversy. We give you a little inside scoop into our relationship and talk about what it’s like dating a tattoo artist, everything from how to deal with differing skill levels to navigating breakups within the industry. Are you…
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