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Robsmead

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The Business of Tattooing
The Business of TattooingTHE BUSINESS OF TATTOOING - EPISODE 30 - SPOTLIGHT SERIES FEAT. RYAN ADAMSIn the second installment of our Spotlight Series, we sit down with Ryan Adams, owner of Hell or High Water Tattoo in Niles, Michigan, to discuss shop ownership, the actual impact of Michigan's new numbing cream regulations, and adapting to the industry slowdown. We also geek out on tattoo tech and AI, and get the story behind Ryan's other ventures, including his oddity shop, Borrowed Time, and the Mourning Museum, a death museum.   Want to see the tour of Ryan's incredible oddity shop and death museum? You have to check out the full video on ou...
2025-11-121h 06The Business of Tattooing
The Business of TattooingTHE BUSINESS OF TATTOOING - EPISODE 29 - SPOTLIGHT SERIES FEAT. DAVION ELLISKicking off our Spotlight Series live from Trapdoor Tattoos in Indianapolis! Rob sits down with owner Davion Ellis for a raw conversation on his unconventional journey into tattooing. We cover his 5 years of "scratching" from home, the tough love from mentor Chris Karloff that changed everything, and the vision behind building his unique, anime-themed shop—complete with iconic manga-panel floors. Davion gets real about: • The stigma of scratching & his approach to guiding new artists • His modern apprenticeship philosophy • Why client connection is everything in a slow market • Building a "nerd paradise" fo...
2025-10-231h 04The Business of Tattooing
The Business of TattooingTHE BUSINESS OF TATTOOING - EPISODE 28 - TIMA TALKSIn this episode, Rob and Sean Brown officially launch TIMA (Tattoo Industry Manufacturers Alliance) and Inktegrity— two game-changing initiatives designed to establish industry-led safety standards, ensure product transparency, and unify the profession.   This is a pivotal moment for the future of professional tattooing.   Learn how these organizations will empower artists, hold manufacturers accountable, and protect the integrity of the craft for everyone.   Watch the full video on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Hb_ZayGjx2U   APT WEBSITE https://safe-tattoos.com/   TIMA http...
2025-10-161h 02The Business of Tattooing
The Business of TattooingTHE BUSINESS OF TATTOOING - EPISODE 27 - MIKEY NEWBLOODIn this episode, we are joined by tattoo artist Mikey Newblood of Studio 617 in Marysville, Tennessee. This was the second episode filmed and recorded live from the 2025 Macabre Arts Tattoo Festival.   Rob and Mikey dive into how his shop has kept the same core crew for years, a rare feat in the tattoo industry. Mikey opens up about building a loyal community, fostering a drama-free shop culture, and the hilarious real-life struggles (like a brutal arm day leaving him too sore to plunge a toilet mid-client!) that come with the job.   This...
2025-10-0843 minThe Business of Tattooing
The Business of TattooingTHE BUSINESS OF TATTOOING - EPISODE 26 - PONY LAWSONIn this episode, we are joined by tattoo icon Pony Lawson for a deep dive into his incredible career. We discuss the real state of the tattoo industry post-COVID, including over-saturation and how to stand out. Pony shares stories from his start at 14 with a homemade machine, the behind-the-scenes truth of being on Ink Master, and the massive effort behind his educational YouTube channel. We also break down his techniques for micro-realism and metallic tattoos, the use of AI in design, and his thoughts on the future. Packed with business, branding, and technical insights, this is a masterclass for any a...
2025-10-021h 54The Business of Tattooing
The Business of TattooingTHE BUSINESS OF TATTOOING - EPISODE 25 - REESE HILBURNIn this episode, tattoo artist & coach Reese Hilburn gets radically honest about her journey from TV fame and public cancellation to rebuilding her life and business through spiritual growth. She shares how she now earns 10K+/month tattooing only 6 days, and the mindset shifts that made it possible. We dive into overcoming self-sabotage, turning your shadows into strengths, and why being polarizingly authentic is the best marketing strategy. A powerful episode on healing, entrepreneurship, and building a life of freedom.   Watch the full video on YouTube: https://youtu.be/aqjYSJUryKg  
2025-09-241h 47The Business of Tattooing
The Business of TattooingTHE BUSINESS OF TATTOOING - EPISODE 24 - MICK O’HERIENIn this episode, we’re joined by Mick O'Herien, President of the APT and owner of the legendary Shotzi's Tattoo, for a crucial conversation about the state of the industry.   Mick shares his incredible journey from being Shotzi's last apprentice to leading the fight for tattooers' rights. We discuss the looming threat of federal regulation, the importance of organizations like the APT and TIMA, and why "strengthening the gates" is essential for the future of our craft.   This is a powerful episode about legacy, advocacy, and uniting to protect the industry we l...
2025-09-171h 47The Business of Tattooing
The Business of TattooingTHE BUSINESS OF TATTOOING - EPISODE 23 - ADAM STONERIn this episode, we’re back on the LIVE stage! Recorded on August 31, 2025, at the Macabre Tattoo & Arts Festival in Louisville, Kentucky, this episode marks the return of our raw, convention-floor conversations, and it was worth the wait.   Join Rob as he sits down with Adam Stoner, artist, documentarian, and host of The Adam Stoner Show, for a wildly unpredictable chat.   This isn’t your typical tattoo podcast. This is a deep dive into art, life, loss, legacy, and what it means to truly simplify your world - told by two guys who...
2025-09-0951 minThe Business of Tattooing
The Business of TattooingTHE BUSINESS OF TATTOOING - EPISODE 22 - KEVIN BECVARIn this episode, shop owner, renowned artist, and real estate agent Kevin Becvar joins the podcast for a no-holds-barred conversation about the evolution of his career and the tattoo industry at large.   We kick things off by catching up on life, fatherhood, and the unique challenges of living and working in Temecula, California. Kevin opens up about the shifting landscape of tattooing, discussing why he feels the industry has gotten "softer," the pros and cons of its oversaturation, and why he'll never turn down a Pinterest tattoo.   We dive deep into hi...
2025-09-031h 45The Business of Tattooing
The Business of TattooingTHE BUSINESS OF TATTOOING - EPISODE 21 - SELINA MEDINAIn this episode, Rob is joined by Selina Medina, tattoo artist, VP of the Alliance for Professional Tattooists (APT), and a leading expert on tattoo industry regulations.   This is a critical conversation about the existential threats facing the tattoo industry. They pull back the curtain on the dangers of cheap, imported products and the looming specter of government oversight. Selina breaks down the high-stakes battle to change the term "injection" in regulatory language, a fight that could determine if tattooing remains an accessible craft or becomes a cost-prohibitive medical procedure.   They al...
2025-08-272h 12The Business of Tattooing
The Business of TattooingTHE BUSINESS OF TATTOOING - EPISODE 20 - JAMES GAITHERIn our landmark 20th episode, we sit down with James Gaither (Art Noir) for a crucial industry talk. We recap the inaugural Raven's Nest event at Sturgis before diving into the existential threats from Amazon and direct Chinese manufacturing. We break down the lessons from the fall of CTS and the urgent new mission of the Tattoo Industry Manufacturers Alliance (TIMA) to create safety standards and protect the industry's soul. Get ready for a raw conversation about legacy, responsibility, and the future of tattooing.   Watch the full video on YouTube: https://youtu.be/UAtFX9R4u...
2025-08-212h 37The Business of Tattooing
The Business of TattooingTHE BUSINESS OF TATTOOING - EPISODE 19 - HAL SAWYERIn this episode, we sit down with Hal Sawyer, the owner of Helheim Tattoo in Fayetteville, NC, for a raw, unfiltered conversation on tattooing’s evolving landscape, from pricing struggles and guest artist frustrations to AI’s looming threat. We also dive into wild tangents: handmade trophies, doomsday prepping, and why hugging trees might save your sanity. Whether you’re an artist or just love ink, this episode blends industry insights with unexpected philosophy.   Watch the full video on YouTube: https://youtu.be/-Cv9Aco9dGI   APT WEBSITE https://safe-tattoos.com/  ...
2025-08-132h 21The Business of Tattooing
The Business of TattooingTHE BUSINESS OF TATTOOING - EPISODE 18 - AMY WARDIn this episode, we chat with Amy Ward, tattoo artist, shop owner, and industry advocate, about her 26-year journey in tattooing, from apprenticeship to championing safety standards. Amy dives into the importance of transparency in ink manufacturing, the differences between U.S. and EU regulations (REACH vs. MoCRA), and why collaboration between artists and manufacturers is key to the industry’s future. Whether you're an artist or ink enthusiast, this episode is packed with insights on professionalism, safety, and elevating tattooing as a craft. Watch the full video on YouTube: https://youtu.be/ZMZl8S-fDHI APT...
2025-08-062h 56The Business of Tattooing
The Business of TattooingTHE BUSINESS OF TATTOOING - EPISODE 17 - LU SKYWALKERIn this episode, tattoo artist Lu Skywalker joins the show to chat about his 18-year journey, from chaotic convention days to prioritizing health and creativity. We dive into industry challenges (Pittsburgh’s lack of regulation, AI ethics), the power of community, and why tattooing needs better education. Plus, Lu’s passion for card games and his dream of merging nerd culture with tattoo shops!   Watch the full video on YouTube: https://youtu.be/2phzHr5iDn8   APT WEBSITE https://safe-tattoos.com/   SHOW SPONSOR https://electrumsupply.com   J...
2025-07-3057 minThe Business of Tattooing
The Business of TattooingTHE BUSINESS OF TATTOOING - EPISODE 16 - KRIS LACHANCEIn this episode, we talk with Kris Lachance of Splash of Color Tattoo about building a culture of safety, structure, and accountability. From shop management to safety standards, this episode offers critical insight into what it takes to run a successful and safe tattoo studio in 2025. Watch the full video on YouTube: https://youtu.be/aFDGTQRV6Yo   APT WEBSITE https://safe-tattoos.com/   SHOW SPONSOR https://electrumsupply.com   JOIN ELECTRUM INSIDERS! https://electrumsupply.net   The Business of Tattooing on IG @busi...
2025-07-231h 57The Business of Tattooing
The Business of TattooingTHE BUSINESS OF TATTOOING - EPISODE 15 - CODY GOWERIn this episode, we sit down with Tennessee’s own Cody Gower to discuss the impact of AI in tattooing, what it takes to be a successful traveling artist, and the challenges associated with sponsorship models. From staying loyal to your roots to navigating the noise of social media, Cody shares raw insight, stories from the grind, and why showing up matters more than showing off. And of course, we talk a little wrestling too! Watch the full video on YouTube: https://youtu.be/yNygm3nneIU   APT WEBSITE https://safe-tattoos.com/ ...
2025-07-172h 14The Business of Tattooing
The Business of TattooingTHE BUSINESS OF TATTOOING - EPISODE 14 - DURB MORRISONThis week on The Business of Tattooing, we sit down with the legendary Durb Morrison, tattooer, founder of Hell City Tattoo Festival, and lifelong creative. From his early roots in tattooing to building one of the industry’s most respected events, Durb shares powerful insights on longevity, mental health, pour painting, and what it means to grow both as an artist and an entrepreneur. Watch the full video on YouTube! https://youtu.be/x7YCVuGOzgg   APT WEBSITE https://safe-tattoos.com/   SHOW SPONSOR https://electrumsupply.com  
2025-07-092h 23The Business of Tattooing
The Business of TattooingTHE BUSINESS OF TATTOOING - EPISODE 13 - MICHELLE & EAIN VARGA w STACIE RAEIn this week's powerful episode, we dive into the sacred side of tattooing with Michelle and Eain Varga of Varga Medical Art and Stacie-Rae, pioneer of trauma-informed tattooing. We explore tattooing as ancient medicine, how it can help clients heal emotional wounds, reclaim identity, and reconnect with their bodies. This conversation reminds us that tattooing isn’t just art, it’s human, vulnerable, and deeply transformative. Watch the full video on YouTube: https://youtu.be/ncHZlKnHGQw   APT WEBSITE https://safe-tattoos.com/   SHOW SPONSOR https...
2025-07-022h 08The Business of Tattooing
The Business of TattooingTHE BUSINESS OF TATTOOING - EPISODE 12 - MARY BLAKEIn this week's episode, we sit down with the incredible Mary Blake, hailing from Golden Yeti Tattoo in Franklin, Tennessee. Mary is a powerhouse in the tattoo industry, known for her stunning and versatile work, her commitment to excellence, and her leadership in cultivating a client-first studio environment. We dive deep into her journey from aspiring artist to industry standout, exploring the lessons she’s learned, the philosophies she lives by, and the creative boundaries she's constantly pushing. Mary talks candidly about artist burnout, the importance of self-care, and how to foster a healthy, growth-minded shop culture. Wh...
2025-06-251h 51The Business of Tattooing
The Business of TattooingTHE BUSINESS OF TATTOOING - EPISODE 11 - TROY TIMPELIn this episode of The Business of Tattooing, Rob sits down with Villain Arts founder Troy Timpel—apprentice to Philadelphia Eddie and mastermind behind one of the world’s largest tattoo convention circuits. They dive into Troy’s roots, his work ethic, and what it takes to build a lasting legacy in the tattoo world. If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to operate on a global scale while staying true to tattoo culture, this is the episode to catch. Watch the full video on YouTube: https://youtu.be/4gQEjtfkJII   APT...
2025-06-182h 03The Business of Tattooing
The Business of TattooingTHE BUSINESS OF TATTOOING - EPISODE 10 - SKIZZY SCOTTIn this raw and real episode, tattoo artist and muralist Skizzy Scott returns to talk about what it really takes to last in the game. From authenticity vs. imitation to burnout, business, and mental health, this one’s all heart, hustle, and hard-earned truth. A must-listen for anyone trying to build something real in the tattoo world. Watch the full video on YouTube: https://youtu.be/I2FV4w-88Vs   APT WEBSITE https://safe-tattoos.com/   SHOW SPONSOR https://electrumsupply.com   JOIN ELECTRUM INSIDERS! https...
2025-06-112h 25The Business of Tattooing
The Business of TattooingTHE BUSINESS OF TATTOOING - EPISODE 09 - SHAUN KAMAThis week, we sit down with the one and only Shaun Kama, a legendary tattoo artist, punk rock rebel, and the undisputed King of Halloween Tattoos. From apprenticing under Mark Mahoney to tattooing at the Punk Rock Museum and launching the mobile tattoo empire Ravens Nest Productions, Shaun shares his journey through horror, hustle, and artistic legacy. Watch the full video on YouTube: https://youtu.be/5A754Er_8-0   APT WEBSITE https://safe-tattoos.com/ SHOW SPONSOR https://electrumsupply.com JOIN ELECTRUM INSIDERS! https://electrumsupply.net T...
2025-06-042h 15The Business of Tattooing
The Business of TattooingTHE BUSINESS OF TATTOOING - EPISODE 08 - CHRIS ALLEN TAYLORChris Allen Taylor joins Rob Smead to discuss preserving tattoo history, building the Indy Tattoo Expo, and honoring the legacy of his mentor, Rabbit Sanders. From walk-in shop grit to big-picture vision, this episode is packed with stories and heart. Watch the full video on YouTube: https://youtu.be/CHB04lHFPXY   APT WEBSITE https://safe-tattoos.com/   SHOW SPONSOR https://electrumsupply.com   JOIN ELECTRUM INSIDERS! https://electrumsupply.net   The Business of Tattooing on IG @business_of_tattooing   Rob...
2025-05-201h 41The Business of Tattooing
The Business of TattooingTHE BUSINESS OF TATTOOING - EPISODE 07 - SEAN BROWNSean Brown joins Rob Smead to talk leadership, regulation, and the future of tattooing, from his days at Eternal Ink to lobbying on Capitol Hill. MoCRA, REACH, artist safety, and corporate transparency, this is the episode every artist and brand needs to hear. Watch the full video on YouTube: https://youtu.be/KR-SmIa-7Ts   APT WEBSITE https://safe-tattoos.com/   SHOW SPONSOR https://electrumsupply.com   JOIN ELECTRUM INSIDERS! https://electrumsupply.net   The Business of Tattooing on IG @business_of_tattooing
2025-05-141h 53The Business of Tattooing
The Business of TattooingTHE BUSINESS OF TATTOOING - EPISODE 06 - RYAN ROIRyan Roi joins Rob Smead to discuss money, marketing, and mindset... from tattooing to building a million-dollar coaching business helping artists grow wealth, create freedom, and take control of their careers. This is real talk, real strategy, real growth. Watch the full video on YouTube: https://youtu.be/p08SWmxXn_c   APT WEBSITE https://safe-tattoos.com/ SHOW SPONSOR https://electrumsupply.com JOIN ELECTRUM INSIDERS! https://electrumsupply.net The Business of Tattooing on IG @business_of_tattooing Rob Smead on IG @noflashninja R...
2025-05-061h 29The Business of Tattooing
The Business of TattooingTHE BUSINESS OF TATTOOING - SPECIAL LIVE FROM HELL CITY WITH SCOTT VERSAGOTook The Business of Tattooing podcast back on the road this weekend… For the first time since 2020 (thanks, Covid), I went mobile and recorded live at Hell City—which felt pretty damn full circle. Hell City is actually where I launched my very first podcast, Electrum Radio, back in 2018. So recording here again? Nostalgic as hell. This time, I sat down for a bonus episode with someone who’s not just an industry powerhouse, but a close personal friend: Scott Versago, owner of Skin & Ink magazine. I’ve known Scott way before he ever too...
2025-05-051h 18The Business of Tattooing
The Business of TattooingTHE BUSINESS OF TATTOOING - EPISODE 05 - JOSEPH SWANSONEpisode 5 – Elevating the Industry: Art, Ethics & Innovation with Joseph Swanson Joseph Swanson joins Rob Smead to talk shop, soul, and systems—from tattoo ethics and AI to client experience, education, and building a career that lasts. A real-deal conversation with one of the most thoughtful voices in the industry. Watch the full video on YouTube: https://youtu.be/ntjUhcV5GBE   APT WEBSITE https://safe-tattoos.com/ SHOW SPONSOR https://electrumsupply.com JOIN ELECTRUM INSIDERS! https://electrumsupply.net  Tattoo Pro https://tattoopro.io/try The...
2025-04-301h 58The Business of Tattooing
The Business of TattooingTHE BUSINESS OF TATTOOING - EPISODE 04 - MICHAEL GETZEpisode 4 – Focus, Faith & the Future: A Deep Dive with Michael Getz Michael Getz joins Rob Smead to talk discipline, mindset, and the mission behind Force of Focus. From addiction and burnout to leadership, clarity, and building a purpose-driven tattoo career, this episode is packed with candid insights and powerful perspectives. Watch the full video on YouTube: https://youtu.be/HqjzkmA_esY   APT WEBSITE https://safe-tattoos.com/ SHOW SPONSOR https://electrumsupply.com The Business of Tattooing on IG @business_of_tattooing Rob Smead on IG...
2025-04-231h 48The Business of Tattooing
The Business of TattooingTHE BUSINESS OF TATTOOING - EPISODE 03 - JOE CAPOBIANCOEpisode 3 – Old School, New Rules: A Raw Sit-Down with Joe Capobianco Joe Capobianco joins Rob Smead for a raw, unfiltered convo on machines, mentorship, regulation, and the state of tattooing today. From coil vs. rotary to corporate takeover and old-school values, this is a masterclass in real talk from one of the industry's most iconic voices. Watch the full video on YouTube: https://youtu.be/ohPa8G7C4OU   APT WEBSITE https://safe-tattoos.com/ SHOW SPONSOR https://electrumsupply.com The Business of Tattooing on IG @bus...
2025-04-162h 17The Business of Tattooing
The Business of TattooingTHE BUSINESS OF TATTOOING - EPISODE 02 - ROBBIE RIPOLL & JAYVO SCOTTEpisode 2 – Blood, Ink, and Brotherhood: A Raw Conversation. Brothers Robbie Ripoll and Jayvo Scott join Rob Smead for a raw, emotional conversation about brotherhood, healing, and their journey from rivalry to reconnection. From Ink Master drama to real-life growth, this is a powerful story of redemption, forgiveness, and finding purpose beyond the pain. Watch the full video on YouTube: https://youtu.be/KVSRvef5fjM   DRIVEN BY HEART - FIGHTING BREAST CANCER TOGETHER https://drivenbyheart.org/ JOIN ELECTRUM INSIDERS https://electrumsupply.net The Business of Tattooing on...
2025-04-091h 57The Business of Tattooing
The Business of TattooingTHE BUSINESS OF TATTOOING - EPISODE 01 - BEN SHAWIn the premiere episode of The Business of Tattooing podcast, Rob Smead sits down with industry leader Ben Shaw to discuss the current state of tattooing. They discuss hot topics like the 'Tattpocalypse,' AI's impact on the craft, the controversial Black Dot tattoo robot, and the future of tattoo regulation. Join them for an unscripted, thought-provoking conversation about the evolving tattoo landscape. Don't miss this insightful kickoff to the series! Watch the full video on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Rc9-vTvl5U0   APT WEBSITE https://safe-tattoos.com/ SHOW S...
2025-04-021h 55The Business Spotlight Series
The Business Spotlight SeriesHOW I GENERATED A MOVEMENT WITH MY BUSINESS | With Rob Smead and Mike Ronchetti | The Business SpotlightAs founder of One Ink Seven, LLC and President of Electrum’s family of brands, Rob Smead has been in the tattoo industry since he was 17. Hailing from Elkhart, IN., Rob has become an industry leader as well as an Indiana State Representative for the Alliance of Professional Tattooists. His mission has always been simple: empower artists with innovative, high-quality tools. With global distribution and sponsorship of 70+ artists, Rob has built more than a supply company—he’s generated a movement. Through the company’s podcast, The Business of Tattooing, and his Skin & Ink Magazine columns, Rob guides artists in turni...
2025-02-0418 min