Honest Tattooer Podcast

Send us a textIn this episode of the Honest Tattooer Podcast, Jon Mesa and co-host Matt Truiano sit down with their guest, Adam Harmon. Adam shares his journey from apprenticeship to becoming a full-time tattoo artist at Hope Gallery Tattoo in New Haven, Connecticut. The discussion covers a wide range of topics including the challenges of long apprenticeships, the appeal of classic cartoon tattoos, and the differences in tattoo culture between urban and rural areas. They also delve into the nuances of reworking old tattoos, the impact of digital photography on tattoo art, and the importance of flash in tattoo studios. Tune in for an engaging and informative conversation that offers valuable insights into the world of tattooing.👥 Follow Our Hosts & Guest: • Jon Mesa: @Jonmesatattoos • Matt Truiano: @Matttruiano •Adam Harmon - @adamharmontattoo💡 Sponsors:• Tattoo Pro – The all-in-one software solution for tattoo shops: https://tattoopro.io• Tattoo Armour – The ultimate aftercare and tattoo protection solution: https://tattooarmourusa.com• Tattoo Smart – Industry-leading digital tools for tattoo artists: https://tattoosmart.com use code HONEST25• Force of Focus – The premium coaching community for tattoo artists: https://forceoffocus.com• Steadfast Tattoo Supply – Providing professional tattooers with the best quality equipment on the market. For tattooers, by tattooers    https://steadfasttattooco.com/    Support the show

Send us a textIn this episode of the Honest Tattooer podcast, Jon Mesa and Matt Truiano are joined by special guest Kai Watai, a tattoo artist with 16 years of experience specializing in Polynesian tattoos. Kai shares her journey into tattooing, starting with her apprenticeship at 16, and discusses the cultural significance and evolution of Polynesian tattoos. The conversation covers the history and challenges of preserving tattoo traditions, the impact of colonization, and the intricacies of designing meaningful tattoos. Kai also touches on the difference in tattooing ethics across various U.S. states and answers questions about tattooing underage clients. The episode wraps up with Kai presenting traditional Hawaiian gifts and sharing insights on life in Hawaii.Support the show

Send us a textIn this episode of the Honest Tattooer Podcast, hosted by John Mesa and Matt Truiano, special guest Kirk Nilsen shares his intriguing journey from playing in punk rock bands to becoming a renowned tattoo artist. Kirk, owner of Crown Anchor Tattoo in Point Pleasant, New Jersey, talks about his 17-year career in the tattoo industry, specializing in large-scale ornamental and gothic architectural tattoos. The conversation delves into his early struggles, the challenges of running a private studio, and hilarious anecdotes from his tattooing adventures. Kirk also opens up about the importance of social media, the changing landscape of tattooing, and the critical advice that elevated his business to new heights. Don't miss out on this entertaining and insightful episode!👥 Follow Our Hosts & Guest: • Jon Mesa: @jonmesatattoos • Matt Truiano: @matttruiano • Kirk Nilson: @Kirknilsentattoos💡 Sponsors:• Tattoo Pro – The all-in-one software solution for tattoo shops: https://tattoopro.io• Tattoo Armour – The ultimate aftercare and tattoo protection solution: https://tattooarmourusa.com• Tattoo Smart – Industry-leading digital tools for tattoo artists: https://tattoosmart.com use code HONEST25• Force of Focus – The premium coaching community for tattoo artists: https://forceoffocus.com• Steadfast Tattoo Supply – Providing professional tattooers with the best quality equipment on the market. For tattooers, by tattooers    https://steadfasttattooco.com/    Support the show

Send us a textJoin Jon Mesa and Matt Truiano, and special guests Lalo Yunda from Colombia and Ozzy Garcia from Puerto Rico in a lively episode of The Honest Tattooer Podcast.  Ozzy shares how his path to specializing in Polynesian tattoos took him from Puerto Rico to New Zealand, working in historic tattoo shops and learning from master artists. The group  discusses the importance of energy and personality in tattooing, the impact of TV and social media on the industry, and the technical details of tattoo machines. Featuring a surprise unboxing of a $24.99 tattoo machine kit from Amazon, this episode is packed with engaging conversations, tattoo history, and practical tips for tattoo artists. Don’t miss this entertaining and informative discussion!👥 Follow Our Hosts & Guest: • Jon Mesa: @jonmesatattoos • Matt Truiano: @matttruiano • Lalo Yuna: @lalotattoos• Ozzy Garcia: @tattoosbyozzy💡 Sponsors:• Tattoo Pro – The all-in-one software solution for tattoo shops: https://tattoopro.io• Tattoo Armour – The ultimate aftercare and tattoo protection solution: https://tattooarmourusa.com• Tattoo Smart – Industry-leading digital tools for tattoo artists: https://tattoosmart.com• Force of Focus – The premium coaching community for tattoo artists: https://forceoffocus.com• Steadfast Tattoo Supply – Providing professional tattooers with the best quality equipment on the market. For tattooers, by tattooers    https://steadfasttattooco.com/    Support the show

Send us a textIn this episode of the Honest Tattooer Podcast, hosts Jon Messa and Matt Truiano welcome the talented Magie Serpica, a seasoned tattoo artist with 24 years of experience. Magie discusses her journey from Brooklyn to Staten Island, emphasizing the evolution of the tattoo industry from a flash-based world to specialized art styles. They delve into her experiences at various tattoo conventions, notably her challenging yet enlightening experience at the recent Philly Tattoo Convention. The discussion also covers the impact of social media on tattoo artists, the importance of learning different tattoo techniques, and the dynamics of celebrity tattooing, highlighted by the recent tattoo removals of Pete Davidson. Tune in for an insightful conversation packed with industry tips, personal anecdotes, and the vibrant stories of tattoo culture.👥 Follow Our Hosts & Guest: • Jon Mesa: @jonmesatattoos • Matt Truiano: @matttruiano • Magie Serpica: @magieserpica.tattoo💡 Sponsors:• Tattoo Pro – The all-in-one software solution for tattoo shops: https://tattoopro.io• Tattoo Armour – The ultimate aftercare and tattoo protection solution: https://tattooarmourusa.com• Tattoo Smart – Industry-leading digital tools for tattoo artists: https://tattoosmart.com• Force of Focus – The premium coaching community for tattoo artists: https://forceoffocus.com• Steadfast Tattoo Supply – Providing professional tattooers with the best quality equipment on the market. For tattooers, by tattooers    https://steadfasttattooco.com/                                   00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:28 Maggie's Tattoo Journey02:16 Staten Island Tattoo Scene05:17 Challenges of Tattooing in Different Locations10:39 Convention Experiences and Reflections13:48 Philly Convention Struggles20:10 Adapting to the Modern Tattoo Industry34:12 Balancing Kids and Tattoo Conventions35:57 Tattooing Techniques: Coils vs. Rotaries36:36 Teaching Tattoo Apprentices41:23 Exploring Tattoo Machines48:07 Celebrity Tattoos: Pete Davidson's Journey56:04 Laser Tattoo Removal Insights01:00:09 Podcast Wrap-Up and AnnouncementsSupport the show

Send us a textJoin Jon Mesa and Matt Truiano on the Honest Tattooer Podcast with special guests Ermes, Vega, and Matt Buck. They dive deep into their tattooing experiences and preferences, discussing favorite inks, needles, and machines. The conversation explores the impact of AI on various fields, including tattooing and medicine, and debates the future of the tattoo industry with new artists entering the field. The episode also touches on the historical influence of Ukiyo-e art and contemporary techniques. Don't miss out on this engaging and insightful discussion!👥 Follow Our Hosts & Guest: • Jon Mesa: @jonmesa • Matt Truiano: @matttruiano • G Money: @gmoneytattoos • Ermis: @ermisart • Matt Buck: @he_draws • Vega: @lastrewards💡 Sponsors:• Tattoo Pro – The all-in-one software solution for tattoo shops: https://tattoopro.io• Tattoo Armour – The ultimate aftercare and tattoo protection solution: https://tattooarmourusa.com• Tattoo Smart – Industry-leading digital tools for tattoo artists: https://tattoosmart.com• Force of Focus – The premium coaching community for tattoo artists: https://forceoffocus.comSupport the show

Send us a textJon Mesa and Matt Truiano are joined by tattoo artists G Money and special guest Gerald Feliciano. Gerald shares his journey from starting as a tattoo artist in Brooklyn in the early 2000s to owning his own shop. He discusses the challenges and growth he experienced, including his early struggles in the Bronx, his transition to a private studio, and the importance of continuously learning and improving different tattoo styles. The episode also features a tattoo critique segment and conversations about the nuances of digital vs. traditional art. A must-watch for aspiring and seasoned tattoo artists alike👥 Follow Our Hosts & Guest: • Jon Mesa: @jonmesa • Matt Truiano: @matttruiano • G Money: @gmoneytattoos • Gerald Feliciano: @geraldfeliciano💡 Sponsors:• Tattoo Pro – The all-in-one software solution for tattoo shops: https://tattoopro.io• Tattoo Armour – The ultimate aftercare and tattoo protection solution: https://tattooarmourusa.com• Tattoo Smart – Industry-leading digital tools for tattoo artists: https://tattoosmart.com• Force of Focus – The premium coaching community for tattoo artists: https://forceoffocus.comSupport the show

Send us a textJoin Jon Mesa, Matt Truiano, G Money, and special guest Nico on this episode of the Honest Tattooer Podcast. Nico, a fine line tattoo artist based in Brooklyn, NY, shares his journey from apprenticeship to mastering fine line and chrome tattoos. The discussion covers Nico's experiences with his mentor, the significance of understanding light sourcing in tattoos, and the intricacies of working with challenging tattoo placements. The group also delves into the importance of social media for tattoo artists, the value of authenticity in art, and Nico's plans to travel and tattoo globally. Plus, hear about the artistic passion and dedication that distinguish top tattoo artists from the rest. Don't miss out on this insightful and engaging conversation!Support the show

Send us a textJoin hosts Jon Mesa and Matt Truiano on the Honest Tattooer podcast as they dive into an enriching conversation with special guest Eric Whitman. In this episode, Eric shares his journey of 10 years in the tattoo industry, focusing on traditional tattoos and his aspirations to tackle larger illustrative work. The discussion delves deep into Eric’s personal experiences, his spiritual journey through Hinduism, and his insights on karma, culture, and the art of tattooing. Eric reflects on the complexities of tattoo shop dynamics, personal growth, and the integral relationship between tattoo artists and clients. This thought-provoking episode offers a blend of spirituality, industry insights, and personal anecdotes, making it a must-watch for anyone interested in the deeper aspects of tattooing and self-discovery.👥 Follow our hosts and guest: • Jon Mesa: @jonmesa • Matt Truiano: @matttruiano • G Money: @gmoneytattoos • Eric Whitman: @ecwhitman💡 Sponsors:  • Tattoo Pro: https://tattoopro.io  • Tattoo Armour: https://tattooarmourusa.com  • Tattoo Smart: https://tattoosmart.com  • Force of Focus: https://forceoffocus.comSupport the show

Send us a textIn this episode of the Honest Tattooer Podcast, hosted by John Mesa and Matt Truiano, the team chats with special guest Joshua Clark from Sinful Skin in Danielson, Connecticut. With over eight years of experience, Joshua shares his journey into the world of tattooing, his preference for colorful realism and new school styles, and valuable tips for improving tattooing skills. The discussion covers analyzing your work, the importance of proper shading, learning techniques from YouTube and books, the significance of composition and contrast, and much more. Tune in for an enlightening conversation packed with practical advice for both new and experienced tattoo artists.💡 Sponsors: • Tattoo Armour: https://tattooarmourusa.com • Tattoo Smart: https://tattoosmart.com • Tattoo Pro: https://tattoopro.io • Force of Focus: https://forceoffocus.comSupport the show