HIT US UP!!! Send a message.

Skateboarding's not just about the tricks; it's about the stories, the culture, and the people that turn the wheels. That's exactly what we capture in our latest chat with Zach Peacock as we meander through the legacies of legends like Spike Jonze, who seamlessly stitched skateboarding into the fabric of film and photography. Our conversation swerves from the spectacle of extreme sports, funded by the likes of Red Bull, to the intimate connections within the motorcycle community, proving that behind every kickflip and custom bike, there's a tale waiting to be told.

Remember those days when a freshly unwrapped skate video could keep you up at night with anticipation? We take a trip down memory lane, reliving those moments while also appreciating the evolution from sponsor-me tapes to the pure joy of witnessing raw talent. As we reflect on the special encounters with skate icons, Zach and I also dissect the current skate scene, drawing parallels with economic challenges that resonate across various industries. 

Yet, life's not all about perfect landings and smooth rides. We dive into the deeper end, addressing the sobering topics of crisis and suicide among friends, underscoring the significance of community and support during the darkest times. Our heartfelt exchange reminds us to embrace life with audacity, to reach out, and hold on to the shared bonds that can sometimes be the only lifeline. Join us for an episode that melds the adrenaline of extreme sports with the compassion of real human connection, and everything in between.

Support the show

HIT US UP!!! Send a message.

Join us on a captivating journey with the remarkable Zach Peacock, as we celebrate the multifaceted life of a man who's not just a master of the half-pipe but also a maestro with the tattoo gun and a visionary behind the camera. In an enlightening chat, we uncover the true essence of what it means to be a professional skateboarder—beyond the sponsorships and industry accolades. Zach opens up about his personal health battles and the indomitable spirit that led him to not only survive but thrive, setting a powerful example of resilience.

We take a sentimental ride through the evolution of skateboarding culture, revisiting the raw days of the '80s and '90s and marveling at its growth into a career that teaches nothing less than sheer perseverance. The conversation takes an unexpected, yet refreshing turn as we draw parallels between the zen of skateboarding and the clarity brought forth by meditation. Meanwhile, revving into another gear of our discourse, we share a mutual enthusiasm for the dusty trails and the craft of motorcycle customization—an ode to the trials and artistry that shape our lives.

Strap in for a heart-to-heart as Zach and I explore the tender complexities of human emotions, from our expressions of affection to the way we tackle change. We delve into personal growth narratives that highlight the significance of embracing new experiences and the courage it takes to alter life's engrained patterns. Zach's inspiring story is a celebration of living life with authenticity and passion, a tale that resonates with anyone who's ever dared to skate against the grain.

Support the show

HIT US UP!!! Send a message.

Could you ever imagine the grind and grit it takes to become a masterful tattoo artist without a single day of formal training? This week, we sit across from Ronnie B., whose story reads like an adventure novel, filled with passion, self-discipline, and a relentless chase for artistic excellence. Starting with childhood sketches and navigating the murky waters of online forums, Ronnie's obsession with art led him on an epic quest from inking in solitude to earning his stripes under the guidance of industry veterans like Matt Driscoll.

Picture a world where your fists do the talking, both on human canvases and in the Muay Thai ring. Ronnie's tale weaves through the alleys of personal transformation, where the punches of physical training meet the strokes of a tattoo gun. Our conversation traverses the arenas of volunteering and youth ministry, unfolding how Ronnie's eclectic life experiences shape his ability to mentor and make meaningful connections. His candid reflections on storytelling, whether grappling with the brevity of modern attention spans or the potency of life-earned wisdom, will challenge your perceptions of influence and inspiration.

As Ronnie brings his narrative to a close, we're left pondering the profound impact of spirituality in both art and life's battles. His pursuit of truth and readiness for life's unpredictability resonates through his ministries and martial arts. With an election on the horizon, Ronnie speaks to the heart of community resilience, underscoring the urgency of support networks in the face of potential relapse triggers. If you're seeking a blend of passion, art, and soulful insight, join us for an episode that promises to leave an indelible mark.

Support the show

HIT US UP!!! Send a message.

Have you ever found yourself mesmerized by the intricate dance of a tattoo needle, or wondered about the stories etched in ink on someone's skin? Spike Moore, a maestro of tattooing and a shop owner with a wealth of knowledge, joins us to unravel the rich tapestry behind the art form that's become a symbol of identity for many. Step into Spike's world where Japanese back pieces win awards and where 'adult tattoos' are a testament to an individual's lifetime journey, each design resonating with an unspoken narrative that lasts beyond the buzz of the tattoo gun.

In a culture where tattoos once screamed rebellion, we trace the evolution from underground badges of honor to mainstream expressions of the self. Through the tales of Midwest ink enthusiasts from the 80s and 90s, to my own rite of passage within the buzzing walls of a local tattoo shop, we reminisce about the days when being a 'shop rat' meant more than just hanging around. Spike and I dissect the delicate balance of customer service, where the dance between an artist's vision and a client's dream can either harmonize in beauty or clash in disappointment, and the ever-present challenge of cultural appropriation within the inked lines.

Lean in as we close our session on a note of inspiration, discussing the power of mentorship and the profound effect of paying it forward. Spike, with gracious acknowledgment of those who've paved his path, speaks to the soul of the tattoo community—its collective effort to uplift and evolve. From the significance of supporting fellow artists to the sustainable practices that will shape the future of tattooing, we share a commitment to not just bear witness to change but to actively participate in it. Join us, not just for a conversation about tattoos, but for an exploration of a subculture that continues to redefine itself with every generation.

Support the show

HIT US UP!!! Send a message.

Ever stumbled upon the conundrum of whether to exchange passwords with your partner, or felt the weight of 'good lies' resting on your conscience? We tackle these intricate nuances of modern relationships, offering personal insights and diverse viewpoints. You'll hear us debate the balance between trust and privacy, as we dissect the complex dynamics of sharing our digital keys. Listener contributions add depth to the conversation, prompting us to reflect on the baggage we carry and the space we treasure within our most intimate connections.

Now, let's get real about the qualities that make relationships last beyond the initial spark. I share my experiences, including the challenge of nurturing love while navigating a demanding career in the military, revealing how life's pressures can shape our romantic decisions. We also consider the evolving landscape of commitment, where the dance of honesty and protection takes center stage. With candid discussions on what it takes to forge deep connections, this episode promises to leave you with a fresh perspective on finding and fostering love that's focused on growth and enjoyment, rather than just checking off a list.

Rounding off with a celebration of camaraderie, we shine the spotlight on our friend Sam's inspiring fitness journey and the supportive network within our community. Our conversation is a testament to the strength we derive from each other's successes and struggles, as we exchange advice and laughs in equal measure. Join us for an episode that's not just about relationships but also about the joy of companionship, the thrill of personal growth, and the beauty of embracing life's 'crazy' moments with those who stand by our sides.

Support the show

HIT US UP!!! Send a message.

When the unconditional bond between a service dog and a veteran harmonizes, the melody of healing begins to play. We had the privilege of welcoming Michael Welsh from Working Dogs for Warriors to share this symphony of support and transformation. Michael recounted how Gunny, a loyal family dog, sparked the inspiring idea to train service dogs for alleviating PTSD in veterans and first responders. With heartwarming stories of companionship and the unveiling of the rigorous K9 training, this episode walks you through the deep emotional impact and the behind-the-scenes dedication that forge these incredible canine-human partnerships.

Imagine a dog that not only offers comfort but has the ability to sense stress hormones before a PTSD episode even begins. We discussed the cutting-edge training that equips service dogs to be lifesavers in the truest sense, detecting the invisible signs of stress that even their handlers might not be aware of. Michael brought us closer to the reality of these service animals' lives, from their rigorous one to one-and-a-half-year training to the eight to twelve years of joyous service. Listeners are also guided through the etiquette of interacting with service dogs, the importance of certifications, and the diverse roles these heroic dogs play in public safety and personal well-being.

Wrapping up our conversation, we explored the varied purposes for which service dogs are trained, from bedbug detection to search and rescue missions. Michael revealed how e-collars are used responsibly as part of training and shared advice on how the public, particularly children, should interact with working dogs to maintain their focus and effectiveness. The episode is a tribute to the silent heroes on four legs and the veterans they serve, resonating with the spirit of volunteerism and the critical role of community support in empowering Working Dogs for Warriors' noble mission. Join us in this remarkable journey that not only touches the heart but also opens the mind to the profound capabilities and profound impact of service dogs.

Support the show

HIT US UP!!! Send a message.

As April's fresh breezes usher in a season of renewal, Zach Batista and I, Brandon May, share an intimate exploration of personal accountability's profound influence on growth and transformation. Imagine the strength it takes to confront your own missteps and the liberating wave that follows when you do; we delve into these moments with heartfelt transparency. Our candid conversation travels from the therapeutic landscape, where techniques like EMDR's bilateral stimulation foster healing, to the disciplined domain of military training where the weight of others' lives sharpens our sense of responsibility. We reveal how the act of making amends, though deeply personal, unlocks freedom and invites healing, not just for the individual but for all touched by the ripples of our actions.

Journey with us as we uncover the power of owning our faults and the positive transformation it can catalyze in our lives. From the inspiring paths of rehabilitation to the everyday challenge of living without comparison, we unpack the diverse experiences of being—and becoming—our best selves. Discover the varied roads to accountability and the impact of a single phone call or face-to-face conversation in setting things right. Through the stories we share and the practices we suggest, this episode stands as an invitation to our listeners to contribute their own narratives of accountability, weaving together a tapestry that celebrates how individual energy and actions shape the world we inhabit.

Support the show

HIT US UP!!! Send a message.

Ever wondered how the vibrant, inked world of tattooing meshes with the curated galleries of Instagram? Strap in as we bring the heat, dissecting the intersection of social media and skin art. We're tearing down the fourth wall, engaging directly with you, our Instagram tribe, to stitch together a podcast episode that's as spontaneous as a stick-and-poke tattoo at a house party. Your questions fuel our fireside chat, casting light on the peculiar balance between digital connection and personal space—all wrapped up in stories that reveal the colorful fabric of our industry, like that time a deaf client gestured their way into preparing for the most unconventional of events.

But it's not all sunshine and screen time; we throw a spotlight on the darker side of our digital lives. Feel the weight of a tattoo artist's social media presence—where 24/7 accessibility is a double-edged sword, slicing through personal time and warping client expectations. I'm not shy about sharing the tightrope walk of posting our work online, sifting through DMs for the perfect client, and the sacred art of safeguarding personal space. It's a candid look behind the ink-stained curtain of our lives online, where we strive to keep our heads above the algorithmic waves without drowning in notifications.

Finally, we cap off with a riff on the ripple effects of social media on our personal lives. We're popping bottles over the end of our shadow ban and amplifying our voices to Pandora's vast audience. I'll lay it bare—how tapping a heart on a photo can tug at the heartstrings of a relationship, and why sometimes a post is more than just a post. We close with a nod to your voices, the chorus behind our podcast passion, and drop hints about the guests and stories waiting in the wings. So, here's a heartfelt salute to you, our supporters; your presence is the pulse of our show. Keep tuning in for the ink-spired sagas that lie ahead.

Support the show

HIT US UP!!! Send a message.

Ever grappled with the weight of financial worries or felt the pressure of turning your passion into a profitable business? We've got Brandon May on board this week, who gets real about the highs and lows of entrepreneurship. Our candid conversation takes you through the nitty-gritty of managing finances both personally and professionally. Brandon, transitioning from a tattoo artist at established shops to the proud owner of Empire Tattoo, shares the raw emotions that come with such a bold move. He doesn't hold back in recounting the learning curve of budgeting for business, dealing with the tax beast, and the relentless pursuit of purchasing a home in California's daunting real estate market.

But we don't just talk shop; we delve into the heart of the tattoo industry's current evolution, challenging the status quo of traditional shops versus the rise of private studios. Brandon's perspective as a seasoned artist and business owner ignites a passionate debate about the importance of respecting diverse paths to success within the community. As he strips away the layers of negativity that often cloud the tattoo world, listen in for a potent mix of frustration and enlightenment. This episode isn't just for entrepreneurs or creatives; it's a raw look at the universal struggle to chase professional dreams against the odds. Join us for an eye-opening session that promises to leave you inspired to carve out your own empire, whatever that may be.

Support the show

HIT US UP!!! Send a message.

Have you ever felt the hum of a tattoo machine and with it, the catharsis of a memory etched in ink? Today, Zach and I invite you to our Urban River studio for a raw and riveting look into tattoo therapy and its profound impact on the human spirit. We'll unpack the emotional odyssey that accompanies the transformation from bare skin to living canvas, and why tattoos are more than just body art—they're milestones of our personal narratives. As the needle pricks the surface, so too do we explore the depths of professionalism in the tattoo industry, where artists serve as both creators and cautious advisors against the peril of impulsive ink.

Journey with us as we peel back the ink-stained curtain on the stories that walk through a tattoo parlor's door, from tales of triumph to echoes of trauma. I'll share anecdotes from the chair, where every client's revelation is a testament to the trust they place in their artist's hands. We'll navigate the ethical tightrope artists walk, balancing the desire to fulfill requests with the duty to protect clients from future regret. The art of tattooing, we find, is as much about the human connection as it is about the art itself—it's a shared experience that reverberates through the lives of those who bear it and those who bring it to life. Tune in for a heart-to-heart on the indelible power of ink.

Support the show