Goal Getter Worksheet - Free download to help you brainstorm and structure your goals: https://boundbyart.com/goals

Episode 11 - 8 Reasons You Won't ACHIEVE Your Goals Again This Year with Missi Blue: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/8-reasons-you-wont-achieve-your-goals-again-this-year/id1777930586?i=1000682298139

"I was super busy all the time. But was I being productive? Absolutely not. I was just kind of running in circles, feeling confused and messy." - Missi

Accountability meetings completely transformed how I approach my business. Before implementing regular check-ins, I felt perpetually stuck—busy but not productive, knowing what I wanted but never getting closer to it. Once I started having structured weekly accountability sessions, I finally developed clarity about my direction and broke down my big goals into manageable steps.

What's particularly powerful about these meetings is how they force you to confront your progress (or lack thereof). When I look back and see I didn't gain any followers because I posted once instead of my goal of five times, I can't blame the algorithm—I wasn't even in it. Or realizing my client loyalty program took eight months longer than planned because I kept putting off finishing the logo. Without accountability, these patterns continue unchecked.

Whether you find an accountability buddy (preferably someone at a similar business stage who will call you on your BS) or create structured check-ins with your team, this practice will help you stay focused on what truly matters. Some weeks you won't get everything done—life happens—but the consistent check-ins allow you to course-correct rather than abandon your goals entirely.

What you will learn in this episode:

• Why accountability is the single most transformative practice you can implement in your tattoo business

• The signs that indicate you need more accountability in your professional life

• How to shift from a reactive mindset (disaster, panic, recover) to a proactive approach

• Why having clear direction is essential before you can build genuine motivation

• Practical strategies for setting up effective accountability meetings and finding the right accountability partner

• How embracing feedback—even when it hurts—is crucial for artistic and business growth

• The importance of recognizing when you've taken detours from your intended goals

Links:

boundbyart.com

bluebirdtattoos.com

instagram.com/tattoosbymissiblue

instagram.com/boundbyartproject

instagram.com/bluebirdtattoostudio

Music: Unknown Road - The Harp Project

"People need to stop tearing each other down in order to get to an imaginary mountaintop that just doesn't exist. You can literally collaborate with people to get there." - Gia Rose

This conversation with Gia Rose goes deep into the realities of building a career in today's tattoo industry. We talk openly about the challenges of dealing with online negativity, the true value of mentorship, and why skill-sharing over gatekeeping creates a stronger community for everyone. Gia shares her personal journey through cancel culture, finding love across continents, and what it really takes to stay grounded when the internet tries to tear you apart. Whether you're just starting out or you've been tattooing for years, this episode will remind you why we do what we do, and how to keep moving forward with integrity and purpose.

Gia on IG: https://www.instagram.com/giarosetattoo/

Listen to episode 23-What Tattoo Shops Actually Look For Before Taking On Apprentices: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/what-tattoo-shops-actually-look-for-before-taking-on/id1777930586?i=1000700858498

• How to mentally handle online negativity and cancel culture without letting it destroy your career or creative spirit, including practical strategies for protecting your peace while staying authentic

• The critical difference between gatekeeping and valuing your expertise as a tattoo artist, and why sharing skills strengthens the industry rather than dilutes it

• Why conflict resolution and direct communication matter more than avoiding uncomfortable conversations, especially in apprenticeships and shop dynamics

• The real commitment behind taking on an apprentice, what mentors are actually signing up for and what new artists should understand before seeking mentorship

• How social media has changed the tattoo industry for both better and worse, and strategies for using it as a tool rather than letting it control your self-worth

• Why creating art for other artists' approval is killing creativity, and how to reconnect with the pure joy of making art for art's sake

• The importance of understanding your "why" and how it naturally evolves throughout your career, from creating for yourself to teaching and uplifting others

• Permission to begin again: Why changing, growing, and transforming throughout your career isn't just acceptable, it's essential for longevity in this industry

•  

Links:

boundbyart.com

bluebirdtattoos.com

instagram.com/tattoosbymissiblue

instagram.com/boundbyartproject

instagram.com/bluebirdtattoostudio

Music: Unknown Road - The Harp Project

"If you would do it for nothing in exchange, you're in the right place. That's my philosophy—if you would tattoo for nothing, you're doing it for the love of the craft." – Gia Rose

After 21 years behind the machine, Gia Rose has seen it all—from making her own needles and mixing pigments to navigating the brutal world of online attacks. In this raw and honest conversation, Gia breaks down what it really takes to build a lasting career in tattooing, why traditional apprenticeships are evolving (and getting harder to land), and how to protect yourself in an industry that's changing faster than ever. We talk about the emotional toll of cancel culture, the legal protections every artist needs, and why asking yourself "why do I tattoo?" might be the most important question of your career. This isn't about quick fixes or shortcuts—it's about understanding the real trade you're getting into and coming out stronger on the other side.

Gia on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/giarosetattoo/

• Why traditional apprenticeships have fundamentally changed as technology has eliminated much of the hands-on shop work that used to be the foundation of learning the trade

• How to handle online negativity and cancel culture with strategic silence, legal protections like mutual NDAs, and focusing on the support systems that actually matter

• The hidden value exchange in apprenticeships that many newcomers miss—understanding that you're receiving decades of shortcuts and hard-earned lessons condensed into months or years

• Why being a female tattoo artist presents unique challenges at every career stage, from apprentice to shop owner, and how to navigate double standards with confidence

• The importance of asking "would I do this for free?" as your compass for staying authentic and grounded when the industry gets chaotic or overwhelming

• How teaching makes you a better tattooer by forcing you to break down your instinctive process into teachable systems and refining your own techniques in the process

• Legal protections every modern tattoo artist needs including mutual NDAs, proper contracts, and understanding your vulnerabilities in an increasingly corporate industry

• The primacy effect and why your first instinct to defend yourself publicly is usually wrong—learning when to stay silent and let the noise burn out on its own

Links:

boundbyart.com

bluebirdtattoos.com

instagram.com/tattoosbymissiblue

instagram.com/boundbyartproject

instagram.com/bluebirdtattoostudio

Music: Unknown Road - The Harp Project

When Vicki first started working at Bluebird Tattoo Studio as our shop manager, I honestly never planned on taking an apprentice. But watching her work ethic, her hunger to learn, and her genuine connection with our clients made me reconsider everything I thought I knew about teaching someone to tattoo. Fast forward three years, and she's one of the most consistently booked artists in our shop, with nearly 95,000 followers on TikTok and a waitlist of clients who trust her vision completely. What makes Vicki's story so valuable isn't just that she found success quickly—it's how she did it. She built her career on genuine relationships, relentless consistency on social media, and a willingness to evolve her style without losing her identity as an artist. This conversation digs into the real strategies behind staying booked, the mental shifts that separate hobbyists from career artists, and why putting your clients first will always matter more than chasing viral moments.

Vicky’s TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@happycampertattoos Vicky’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/happycampertattoos/

• How to discover and develop your signature tattoo style without getting trapped in one niche or turning away opportunities to grow as an artist

• The social media strategy that actually works for tattoo artists—including how Vicki built a following of 95K on TikTok, when to post, and how to batch-create content in just 10-15 minutes

• Why booking out too far in advance can hurt your business—and how to structure your booking schedule to prevent burnout while keeping your calendar full

• The difference between getting engagement from other tattoo artists versus actual paying clients—and how to shift your content strategy to attract the right audience

• How to build a loyal clientele that books repeatedly by creating exceptional client experiences and starting conversations about the next project before they leave

• What separates successful tattoo artists from those struggling to stay booked in today's saturated market, including mindset shifts and business habits that matter more than talent alone

• Why treating tattooing like a 9-to-5 job will limit your success—and how to find balance while still putting in the creative work that builds a sustainable career

• The power of sharing your journey, not just your finished work—how documenting your progress, challenges, and evolution keeps your audience invested in your story and ready to support you through style changes

Links:

boundbyart.com

bluebirdtattoos.com

instagram.com/tattoosbymissiblue

instagram.com/boundbyartproject

instagram.com/bluebirdtattoostudio

Music: Unknown Road - The Harp Project

"Winners are made in the off season. While everyone else is taking a break, we're working our asses off - and when the next season starts, we hit the ground running." - Missi Blue

Hey everyone, Missi here! In today's episode, we're diving deep into a reality every tattoo artist faces - the slow season. But here's the thing: instead of seeing it as a setback, I'm showing you how to use this time to level up your game. From creating additional income streams and building better systems to networking and improving your craft, we're covering everything you need to know to turn the slow season into your secret weapon for success. Plus, I'm sharing my personal experiences and strategies that have helped me navigate these quieter times while setting myself up for an even stronger comeback.

Get my FREE survival guide here

What you will learn in this episode:

• Strategic financial planning for unpredictable income cycles and handling slow seasons

• How to develop profitable side hustles that complement your tattoo business

• Creating systems and routines to streamline your business operations

• Making the most of downtime through skill development and networking

• Building community presence and visibility during slower months

• Effective social media strategies for maintaining engagement during slow periods

• Planning and goal-setting techniques for sustainable business growth

Links:

boundbyart.com

bluebirdtattoos.com

instagram.com/tattoosbymissiblue

instagram.com/boundbyartproject

instagram.com/bluebirdtattoostudio

Music: Unknown Road - The Harp Project

Running a tattoo shop isn't just about creating incredible art—it's about building systems that work, fostering community connections, and staying consistent even when the business side feels overwhelming. I was lucky enough to sit down with my friend Sutton, owner of Self Care Tattoo, to work through some of the real challenges he's facing as a shop owner in small-town Pennsylvania. We dive deep into the difference between being two weeks booked out versus two months, why community marketing might be more powerful than social media for local shops, and how tracking your client sources can completely change your business strategy. This isn't theory—it's a live coaching session where we problem-solve together and brainstorm actionable solutions that any artist or shop owner can implement immediately.

Self Care Tattoo - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/selfcaresutton/

Self Care Clothing Company - TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@selfcareclothingcompany

• Why being booked only 2 weeks out attracts more impulsive, unreliable clients and how extending your booking timeline naturally filters for serious customers

• The power of community partnerships over social media marketing, including specific tactics for building relationships with local businesses

• How to create effective aftercare bags that promote local businesses while positioning your shop as a community hub

• Why tracking where your clients come from is essential, and how to use that data to double down on your most effective marketing channels

• The importance of loyalty programs and referral systems, plus real examples of what works in small markets

• How to leverage community events and flash days to convert one-time customers into lifelong clients

• Strategies for managing staff roles effectively, including how to help your manager focus on revenue-generating activities

• Why consistent communication with clients before appointments can dramatically reduce no-shows and last-minute cancellations

Links:

boundbyart.com

bluebirdtattoos.com

instagram.com/tattoosbymissiblue

instagram.com/boundbyartproject

instagram.com/bluebirdtattoostudio

Music: Unknown Road - The Harp Project

You know that feeling when you're working your ass off but somehow still feel like you're spinning your wheels? Yeah, I've been there recently, and it forced me to take a hard look at what the hell I was actually doing with my time. I realized I was back to being completely ineffective—burnt out, not seeing results, and definitely not getting closer to my goals. So I had to ask myself the tough question: what are we doing here? In this episode, I'm sharing the brutal honest assessment of my workflow, the changes I'm making to actually see results, and the boundaries I'm setting to protect my energy and creativity. This isn't about working harder; it's about working smarter and finally getting the rewards you deserve for the effort you're putting in.

• Why weekly time audits beat quarterly reviews and how faster feedback loops can revolutionize your business efficiency

• The real reason you're experiencing burnout and how to identify when you're not getting adequate rewards for your work

• How to optimize your workspace for maximum focus, including removing distractions and creating visual clarity

• The art of strategic schedule blocking to prevent burnout before it happens, including quarterly resets and monthly relief days

• Boundary-setting strategies that actually work for protecting your prime creative time from interruptions and distractions

• The power of themed work days and why dedicating specific days to single focuses can dramatically increase your productivity

• How to course-correct when you realize you're overcommitted without the guilt and with practical steps for immediate relief

• Creating sustainable rhythms that include family time, self-care, and business growth without sacrificing your sanity

Links:

boundbyart.com

bluebirdtattoos.com

instagram.com/tattoosbymissiblue

instagram.com/boundbyartproject

instagram.com/bluebirdtattoostudio

Music: Unknown Road - The Harp Project

"All of these moments were scary as hell for me at first. I pushed through and did it anyway. None of these moments were comfortable, or easy, or came naturally to me. I had to put myself in uncomfortable situations so that I could grow."

Looking back at my career journey always gives me perspective, but this time I found something that really stopped me in my tracks—a note from 2017 with my "big" career goals that honestly make me laugh now. Not because they were silly, but because I had no idea what I was actually capable of achieving. Today I'm breaking down the specific moments that transformed my career from barely making $500 a day to running a successful shop, launching a non-profit, and creating this podcast you're listening to right now. But here's the thing—it's not just about what I accomplished. It's about how these pivotal moments happened and why growth always starts with getting uncomfortable. If you're ready to understand what it really takes to level up in this industry, this episode is going to show you the blueprint.

• Why your current goals might be limiting your potential and how to think bigger about your career trajectory

• The real impact of getting honest feedback from industry veterans (even when it crushes your spirit)

• How attending your first tattoo convention can completely shift your perspective and open doors you didn't know existed

• Why building genuine relationships in the industry is more valuable than any technical skill you can learn

• The unexpected lessons that come from business failures and how to use them as stepping stones

• How teaching others can accelerate your own growth and get you out of creative autopilot

• Why every major breakthrough requires stepping outside your comfort zone and embracing the discomfort

• The importance of community and contribution in building a sustainable, fulfilling tattoo career

Ready to identify your own pivotal moments? Take a step back and look at your career journey—what uncomfortable situations are you avoiding that might be exactly what you need for your next breakthrough? Your future self is counting on the moves you make today.

Links:

boundbyart.com

bluebirdtattoos.com

instagram.com/tattoosbymissiblue

instagram.com/boundbyartproject

instagram.com/bluebirdtattoostudio

Music: Unknown Road - The Harp Project

"Am I challenging myself or am I torturing myself? Am I trying to be something I'm not, and that's why it's so hard? Should I be leaning into what already works?"

You know that feeling when you finish a tattoo and you're completely drained—not just physically, but emotionally and mentally too? I had this eye-opening conversation with my friend Milo after she guest spotted at Bluebird Tattoo Studio, and it completely shifted how I think about artistic growth. We dove deep into why we feel guilty for creating art that comes naturally to us, and why we think we need to torture ourselves to be "real" artists. Here's the thing: there's a huge difference between challenging yourself and burning yourself out. Sometimes the most radical thing you can do is lean into what already works for you and refine it instead of constantly trying to reinvent the wheel. This episode is for every artist who's ever felt like they're not doing enough, even when they're creating beautiful work.

Here's what I need you to understand: growth doesn't always have to hurt. Sometimes the biggest breakthroughs happen when you stop fighting against your natural artistic instincts and start working with them. Your art is an extension of your soul—treat it (and yourself) with the respect you deserve. Take what resonates, leave what doesn't, and remember that you get to make the rules for your own artistic journey.

• Why doing smaller, simpler tattoos doesn't make you less of an artist

• How to identify the difference between healthy artistic challenge and self-torture

• The mental and physical toll of constantly pushing beyond your natural flow

• Why embracing what comes naturally can actually accelerate your growth

• How repetition and small refinements lead to mastery faster than constant reinvention

• Why comparing your artistic journey to other artists is sabotaging your success

• Practical strategies for finding the right balance between growth and sustainability

• How to reframe "easy" work as smart business and self-care

Links:

boundbyart.com

bluebirdtattoos.com

instagram.com/tattoosbymissiblue

instagram.com/boundbyartproject

instagram.com/bluebirdtattoostudio

Music: Unknown Road - The Harp Project

"The truth that no one really wants to hear is that it takes pushing through the hard days to be able to push through the hard days."

Let's have an honest conversation about something we all face but rarely discuss openly - those mornings when life punches you in the gut right before a full day of appointments. After 20 years in this industry and countless days of showing up when I didn't think I could, I'm sharing the framework that's helped me navigate these impossible decisions. This episode was born from my recent experience with my dog Baxter's cancer diagnosis, which happened just days before I was scheduled to tattoo a pet memorial. What I discovered in that moment changed how I view the intersection of personal pain and professional purpose. Whether you're dealing with grief, relationship struggles, or just feeling emotionally depleted, this episode will help you create your own decision-making framework for those inevitable hard days.

• The hidden cost of creative careers - Why no one prepares us for the emotional labor of performing creativity on demand, regardless of personal circumstances

• The decision framework - Key factors to consider when determining whether to push through or reschedule, including assessing your emotional state, work quality potential, and possible benefits for both you and your client

• The power of purposeful vulnerability - How sharing authentic moments with clients (when appropriate) can create deeper connections and more meaningful work

• Setting professional boundaries - The critical difference between relating to clients and making them your therapist, plus how to maintain professionalism during emotional times

• Emergency protocol strategies - How to handle true emergencies professionally, including deposit policies, rescheduling tactics, and maintaining client relationships

• The frequency factor - Why patterns matter more than isolated incidents, and how to identify if you're creating avoidable chaos versus experiencing genuine emergencies

• Building emotional resilience - How each decision to push through builds your capacity for future challenges, and why avoiding difficulty can reinforce limiting beliefs

• Finding purpose in pain - Real examples of how personal struggles can enhance your ability to serve clients, especially in emotionally charged work like memorial tattoos

Links:

boundbyart.com

bluebirdtattoos.com

instagram.com/tattoosbymissiblue

instagram.com/boundbyartproject

instagram.com/bluebirdtattoostudio

Music: Unknown Road - The Harp Project