Chats & Tatts

In this episode of 'Chats and Tatts,' host Aaron Della Vedova interviews tattoo artist Mads Thill who hails from Denmark and is well known for his large-scale black and grey realism pieces. The artist shares his unconventional start in tattooing at the age of 16, and how he began tattooing at a house party the same night he got his first kit. Despite some initial mishaps, the artist's passion for tattooing has only grown stronger. Aaron reflects on the artist's incredible work and invites listeners who love tattoos to tune in for an inspiring conversation.

The chat breakdown:

[00:01:28] Large format tattooing.

[00:05:38] Beginning of the new generation.

[00:07:20] The tattooing industry in Denmark.

[00:11:00] Tattooing adventures and memories.

[00:13:30] Tattooing used to be like joining a gang.

[00:16:38] Crazy years in tattooing.

[00:18:36] Creativity in tattoo collaborations.

[00:21:12] Balancing client control and trust.

[00:26:00] Oldest tattoo studio in Copenhagen.

[00:27:08] Tattoo artist's wild hustle.

[00:30:30] Tattoos and rebellion.

[00:34:00] The shift to using cartridges.

[00:36:08] Tattooing in the digital age.

[00:39:04] AI-generated creative ideas.

[00:42:06] Fusion with machine learning.

[00:45:08] Tattooers and digital art.

[00:48:30] Remote tattooing and creative retreats.

[00:52:00] Traveling and tattooing in nature.

[00:53:58] Travel and creativity.

[00:56:52] Expanding horizons beyond tattooing.

Quotes:

"Never forget that people, we're nothing without the people who love tattoos."

"I mean some of the best ideas I've ever had in a tattoo were given to me by the client"

"There's this like balance how to earn trust"

"I think a big reason we're seeing better and better illustrations is cause the iPad"

"I mean there's a limit to how many novel ideas you can spit out in a day"

"I think most people won't give a shit as long as it looks rad they're going to want it"

"I just think you'd be a fool not to be a little concerned about what's happened in the last 10 years. The next 10 are gonna be crazy"

Connect with Mads:

IG: https://www.instagram.com/madsthill/

Mads @ Guru Tattoo: https://www.gurutattoo.com/mads-thill

Connect with Aaron:⁠

Website: http://www.chatsandtatts.com⁠

Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@chatsandtatts

IG: http://www.instagram.com/chatsandtatts

Chats & Tatts YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/chatsandtatts

Aaron IG:⁠ http://www.instagram.com/aarondellavedova⁠

Guru Tattoo: http://www.Gurutattoo.com

In this episode, the importance of gratitude and perspective rule the message throughout as host Aaron Della Vedova welcomes Erik "The Electric" Lamkin.

Erik The Electric has gained a significant following on social media platforms, particularly on YouTube with over 2.7 million subscribers, where he shares videos of his eating challenges, food reviews, and fitness-related content, as well as his journey through overcoming anorexia.

Erik The Electric is known for attempting and completing various food challenges, often involving large quantities of food or extremely spicy dishes. He documents his experiences, provides commentary, and shares his love for food and fitness with his audience.

In this episode, Aaron and Erik explore how difficult experiences can lead to personal growth and wisdom. They acknowledge that they could have ended up in much worse situations, such as becoming a drug addict, but they express gratitude for their current circumstances. They convey a sense of happiness and fulfillment in their life, attributing it to the challenges they have overcome.

They recognize that trauma can push individuals into dire situations, but they emerge stronger and wiser if they manage to navigate through them. They believe that difficult experiences provide unique insights and wisdom that others may not possess. By zooming out and understanding their relative reality, they maintain a sense of gratitude and perspective.

The Chat Breakdown:

[00:02:00] First food challenge experience.

[00:05:27] The big fat fatty sandwich.

[00:07:08] Failed food challenge experience.

[00:10:40] Stomach capacity and competitive eating.

[00:13:06] Competitive eating and Nathan's hot dog contest.

[00:16:33] Water intoxication and its dangers.

[00:22:27] Obesity and self-realization.

[00:24:00] Obsession with weight control.

[00:28:52] Gut health and healing.

[00:32:29] Psychological impacts of childhood trauma.

[00:37:11] Passion for triathlon and cycling.

[00:40:11] Fear of swimming and Ironman.

[00:44:09] Fear of swimming in the ocean.

[00:50:08] Importance of work-life balance.

[00:54:01] Finding excitement in extreme eating.

[00:57:08] We are born to create.

[01:00:27] Gratitude and global inequality.

[01:03:02] Letting go of failure.

[01:05:26] Tattoos and their meanings.

[01:08:58] Fear and anxiety in life.

[01:13:59] Commitment in tattoo art.

[01:20:31] Tattooing and Pain Levels.

[01:24:27] Creating a signature sauce.

[01:26:42] Maggot cheese and travel plans.

[01:28:42] Gross foods and eating challenges.

Connect with Erik:

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/ErikTheElectric

IG: https://www.instagram.com/ErikTheElectric/

Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@eriktheelectric

Connect with Aaron:⁠

Website: http://www.chatsandtatts.com⁠

Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@chatsandtatts

IG: http://www.instagram.com/chatsandtatts

Chats & Tatts YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/chatsandtatts

Aaron IG:⁠ http://www.instagram.com/aarondellavedova⁠

Guru Tattoo: http://www.Gurutattoo.com

Chats and Tatts welcome Matt Tischner to the show! Matt is a native of Southern California. He excelled in BMX racing as a teen and became PRO elite in his early twenties before diving into the world of tattoo artistry.

Host Aaron Della Vedova delves into the growing use of AI in the tattooing industry Matt in this episode. They contemplate what the tattoo industry, as well as other creative fields like painting, will look like in a decade, recognizing that these concerns extend beyond tattoo artists. Overall, the participants convey a sense of curiosity and uncertainty regarding the future of tattooing in light of AI advancements, yet firmly assert their belief that AI cannot replicate the distinctive vision and expertise of human tattoo artists.

Clients place so much trust in tattoo artists to create something unique and unexpected. This creative freedom and element of surprise are seen as essential aspects of the tattooing experience. While AI can generate designs based on specific inputs, it cannot replicate the intuition, artistic sensibility, and ability to understand a client's desires possessed by human artists.

Furthermore, the hosts discuss the risks involved in tattooing and the absence of an "eraser." They emphasize that mistakes can occur, but it is the skill and experience of the artist that enable them to navigate and rectify any errors. This level of expertise and problem-solving cannot be replicated by AI.

Overall, the episode underscores the significance of an artist's creativity, personal touch, and expertise in tattooing, underscoring that AI cannot fully replicate these qualities.

[00:00:09] AI and tattoo rendering.

[00:04:23] Completing body suits.

[00:07:31] Adjusting on the fly.

[00:10:07] Building a following on social media.

[00:12:02] AI and creativity in art.

[00:16:18] AI elevating artistic creativity.

[00:19:36] Tattoo industry in 10 years.

[00:23:04] The importance of caring.

[00:25:10] Treating clients with kindness.

[00:29:32] Professional BMX racing.

[00:31:14] Tattooing and financial considerations.

[00:35:30] What is creativity?

[00:36:21] Creativity and spirituality.

[00:41:38] Balancing work and family.

[00:44:41] Creative struggles and stress.

[00:45:22] Frustration and discomfort in creativity.

[00:48:21] Never giving up.

[00:52:03] The changing landscape of tattooing.

[00:54:17] Social media and tattoo integrity.

[00:57:06] Tattoos and social media.

[01:01:10] Tattoo design approval.

[01:04:00] Commitment 3 show.

Connect with Matt:

Website: https://www.tishtattoo.com/

IG: https://www.instagram.com/tishtattoo

Dana Point tattoo: http://www.danapointtattoo.com/

Connect with Aaron:⁠

Website: http://www.chatsandtatts.com⁠

Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@chatsandtatts

IG: http://www.instagram.com/chatsandtatts

Chats & Tatts YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/chatsandtatts

Aaron IG:⁠ http://www.instagram.com/aarondellavedova⁠

Guru Tattoo: http://www.Gurutattoo.com

In this heartfelt episode, host Aaron Della Vedova reflects on the bittersweet realization that certain tattoo experiences may be coming to an end as he enters a new phase of life. Aaron, a tattoo artist with 30 years of experience, shares the mic with long-time client and friend Ryan Johnson and acknowledges the significance of their 17-year tattoo journey. They share the emotional connection they have formed over the years and 330+ hours of tattooing, seeing Aaron's artistic growth and evolution over time, and why Ryan chose to dedicate his body to art.

We also dive deep into the world of algorithms and the impact they have on our lives. Join us as we discuss technology's unintended consequences, misinformation's power, and critical thinking's importance. Get ready for a mind-opening conversation that will make you question everything you thought you knew. This is the end-of-an-era episode you don't want to miss.

What we chat about:

[00:05:24] The journey of tattooing.

[00:09:29] Friendship beyond tattooing.

[00:11:13] Intense experiences and relationships.

[00:13:24] Why get tattoos?

[00:16:09] Not fitting in and contrarian.

[00:22:22] Incomplete body tattooing.

[00:26:33] Tattooing as a creative project.

[00:27:46] The meaning of Ryan's tattoos

[00:36:39] The game of life.

[00:40:27] Polarization in social media.

[00:43:13] Changing dynamics of political discourse.

[00:46:11] Consumerism and parental influence.

[00:53:37] Little guys fighting for corporations.

[00:55:25] Nasty political system.

[00:59:31] 17-year tattoo journey.

[01:01:30] Tattoos and personal art projects.

Quotes:

"It is very surreal to think that a whole chapter, for you especially, of your life ends today."

"I don't think you wanna do it without the pain."

"Yeah, well, it's co-creating. And that's what tattooing really is. It's one of the rare art forms where two people come together and they co-create the art."

"If we can't disagree about politics, and still be friends, then this is in big, big trouble"

"How do you stop this freight train without, and I hate to say these things, but - a Revolution?"

"We're gonna take pictures of this whole bodysuit, put you in a nice G string, lay you out by the pool, palm trees, fans."

Let's Connect!

Connect with Aaron:⁠

Website: http://www.chatsandtatts.com⁠

Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@chatsandtatts

IG: http://www.instagram.com/chatsandtatts

Chats & Tatts YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/chatsandtatts

Aaron IG:⁠ http://www.instagram.com/aarondellavedova⁠

Guru Tattoo: http://www.Gurutattoo.com

In this episode of Chats and Tatts, host Aaron Della Vedova sits down for a deep conversation with Ian Gardner, an 'Urban Monk' and founder of The Finding Silence Project. Ian shares his extensive journey in philosophy and spirituality. He discusses his exploration of different types of meditation and plant medicines, highlighting their importance in his life. Ian also reflects on his initiation into Transcendental Meditation and the profound experience of finding stillness, and silence, within himself.

In the episode, Aaron and Ian delve into the role of the mind in creating separation from the truth. They explain that the mind's purpose is to maintain a sense of individuality and create divisions. The mind resists the discovery of truth as it threatens its existence.

The speaker suggests that when we find the path that resonates with us, whether through reading, listening to talks, meeting certain individuals, or having specific experiences, we may have a moment of realization or "aha" where we deeply connect with the truth.

In the episode, the speaker mentions the practice of Vipassana, which involves sitting and observing thoughts. The purpose of this practice is to eventually reach a state of rest for the mind. The goal is to cultivate mindfulness and develop a deeper understanding of the nature of the mind.

Tune in for an insightful conversation on seeking and embracing one's spiritual path.

The Chat Breakdown:

[00:02:54] Ian Gardner's spiritual path.

[00:03:27] Connectivity and maintaining relationships.

[00:07:06] Spiritual awakening and DMT.

[00:09:31] Becoming a spiritual seeker.

[00:13:15] Taking a leap into yoga.

[00:16:12] Kumela festival and sadhus.

[00:19:19] Breatharianism and Soul Travel.

[00:23:47] Spiritual realms and connecting with teachers.

[00:26:58] Excommunication and starting anew.

[00:30:17] Unfolding consciousness through meditation.

[00:33:22] The journey into inner silence.

[00:38:29] Spiritual awakening revolution.

[00:41:36] Plant medicine awakening in the West.

[00:43:07] Plant medicine and healing.

[00:47:37] Eradicating suffering through human cooperation.

[00:50:08] Humans and suffering.

[00:54:02] Reincarnation in different religions.

[00:57:46] Reincarnation and the universe.

[01:00:57] The origins of existence.

[01:03:30] Ancient civilizations and cycles.

[01:07:08] The soul's journey through paths.

[01:12:34] Different paths to enlightenment.

[01:13:43] Vegetarianism and spirituality.

[01:19:31] Golden dolphin and family.

[01:21:17] Tattoos and personal connections.

[01:25:25] Bringing meditation to others.

[01:29:14] Pineal gland and meditation.

[01:31:43] The effect of atmosphere.

Quotes:

"Oh, I've been looking in all the wrong places. That thing I've been looking for. It's not out there in all that stuff. It's right in here."

"And I see people in society, people I work with professionally, or my children, or people in the community, all scrabbling and striving, like, like, like mice in a maze chasing after that little piece of cheese."

"I believe that suffering can be easily eradicated with just human cooperation."

"Each person has the power to resolve their own suffering if they choose to look and seek and apply the effort and the dedication."

"Enthusiasm can get you through a lot."

Connect with Ian:

IG: https://www.instagram.com/findingsilenceproject/

The Finding Silence Project: http://www.findingsilenceproject.com/

Connect with Aaron:⁠

Website: http://www.chatsandtatts.com⁠

Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@chatsandtatts

IG: http://www.instagram.com/chatsandtatts

Chats & Tatts YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/chatsandtatts

Aaron IG:⁠ http://www.instagram.com/aarondellavedova⁠

Guru Tattoo: http://www.Gurutattoo.com

You have heard that it's all in the wrist, right? Well, Landon Patterson backs that up when it comes to wine tasting.

They sip, chat, and tatt in this interview with Landon Patterson of 100 Acre Wines. Aaron sits down with the CEO of 100 Acre Wine Group, the top-rated winery in American history, a boutique yet highly recognized winery in the industry and by wine reviewers. We gained insights into the world of winemaking and the unique approach taken by his vineyard. Landon shared his passion for producing exceptional wines and explained the philosophy behind 100 Acre Wines.

During the interview, Landon discussed the vineyard's dedication to creating wines that reflect the distinct characteristics of their terroir. He emphasized the importance of sustainable farming practices and how they influence the quality and expression of the grapes.

Landon highlighted the meticulous process of selecting the vineyard sites and grape varietals, ensuring that only the highest quality grapes are used in their wines. He spoke about the extensive research and experimentation involved in crafting each vintage to achieve a balanced and nuanced flavor profile.

Furthermore, Landon emphasized the significance of patience in winemaking, explaining how time plays a crucial role in allowing wines to develop their full potential. He discussed the careful barrel aging process and the attention to detail in every step, from harvesting to bottling, and the difference between tasting wine, and drinking wine.

Throughout the interview, Landon's enthusiasm for his craft, his travels, and training abroad, was evident as he shared his insights into the artistry and science behind winemaking. He conveyed his pride in the wines produced by 100 Acre and the joy it brings to share their creations with wine enthusiasts around the world.

The episode emphasizes the importance of being present and aware in day-to-day life. While some may understand the concept of mindfulness, putting it into practice can be challenging. The speaker suggests techniques such as calming down and catching oneself when feeling anxious or distracted. They also emphasize the importance of constantly bringing oneself back to the present moment and being aware of one's surroundings. By doing so, one can interact with the world more effectively and be in control of everything by being in control of nothing. The episode highlights the benefits of being present and aware in day-to-day life, including improved job performance and better relationships.

Techniques such as awareness and presence, meditation, breathwork, and catching oneself when feeling anxious can help one stay in the present moment. The speakers emphasize the importance of finding an outlet that allows one to be present and focus on the doing of the thing. They suggest that too much organization and predictability can be limiting and that finding an outlet that allows one to focus on the present moment can be powerful. While they do not delve deeply into the benefits of getting lost and being less organized, they suggest that it can be a way to break free from the constraints of modern life and find a sense of freedom and spontaneity.

[00:02:34] The power of connectivity.

[00:03:07] Top rated winery in America.

[00:08:28] Kaizen philosophy in winemaking.

[00:09:29] Focusing on the creative process.

[00:12:27] Wine's complexity and aliveness.

[00:19:40] THC-infused wine.

[00:21:43] Sulfides in Wine and Food.

[00:24:57] Organic movement in wine industry.

[00:30:08] Fusing art and wine.

[00:35:24] From Travel to Sommelier.

[00:38:13] Analyzing wine as a sommelier.

[00:40:19] Wine tasting and expertise.

[00:43:23] Childhood trauma and therapy.

[00:46:16] Nurturing your mind and spirit.

[00:49:38] Awareness and presence.

[00:53:14] Must-read book recommendations.

[00:55:54] The importance of laughter.

[00:58:46] Getting lost on purpose.

[01:03:08] Tattooing as an intimate experience.

[01:04:37] Connection through vulnerability.

[01:10:22] Evolving wine label art.

[01:15:57] Cambodian ballerina tattoo. [01:16:19] Apsaras - Cambodian angels.

[01:19:39] Unique single varietal wine.

[01:23:40] The endorphins of tattooing.

[01:28:00] Wine tasting biohacking.

[01:33:08] Burgundy and Aligotay grapes.

[01:42:45] Tasting vs Drinking.

[01:52:10] Journey and support.

Connect with Landon:

IG: https://www.instagram.com/landon_100acre/

IG: https://www.instagram.com/fortunatesonwines/

IG: https://www.instagram.com/summerdreamwines/

Connect with Aaron:⁠

Website: http://www.chatsandtatts.com⁠

Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@chatsandtatts

IG: http://www.instagram.com/chatsandtatts

Chats & Tatts YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/chatsandtatts

Aaron IG:⁠ http://www.instagram.com/aarondellavedova⁠

Guru Tattoo: http://www.Gurutattoo.com

Dave Kennedy is a renowned guitarist, but he is a storyteller above all else, and it's easy to see why, even in his business venture James Coffee. His songs paint a cinematic portrait of America as his characters journey through love, heartbreak, humor, sin, redemption, revenge, and perhaps even a few of the songwriter's own footsteps along the way. A founding. member of Angels. &. Airwaves, Dave is also known for his work as one of Nashville's most respected songwriters and artists, and why artists like Travis Tritt, Riley Green, Whiskey Myers, Drake White, Larry Fleet, and others have worked with him over the years. Hot off the heels of a tour with The Steel Woods, Dave sits down with Chats and Tatts host Aaron Della Vedova for an in-depth look into life as a musician as well as entrepreneurship and how personal circumstances and timing can play a significant role in starting a business.

Dave shares his experience starting a coffee business when he was younger and had fewer responsibilities, allowing him to take risks and sleep on couches, emphasizing that passion and creativity can be more important than having a traditional business plan.

In addition, the episode touches on the importance of having a challenge or creative project to stay motivated to combat mental health issues. Dave shares his experience of going through a period of depression when he attempted to take a break from work after COVID-19. He discovered that he needs a challenge or a creative project to stay engaged and motivated and the importance of finding something that interests and excites him to work on, as creative work can be a source of fulfillment and motivation.

Aaron and Dave also get into a conversation about UFOs, plant medicine, and animal cruelty in the coffee industry. This. is a deep convo you don't want to miss.

What we chat about:

[00:00:09] Hardcore punk music.

[00:03:53] Need for a creative project.

[00:07:41] Scary experiences in tattooing.

[00:09:20] Tattoo culture and subculture.

[00:13:44] The purpose of hardcore.

[00:15:09] Transition from punk rock.

[00:18:08] Pursuing different music genres.

[00:23:18] Belief in extraterrestrial life.

[00:27:06] UFO documents released by Pentagon.

[00:27:58] Tom DeLonge's validation.

[00:30:56] UFO Documentary in Brazil.

[00:33:47] The challenges of touring.

[00:37:11] Achieving a higher level.

[00:40:05] Psychedelics as plant medicine.

[00:43:14] Living drug-free.

[00:46:54] Refraining from processed sugar.

[00:50:23] Becoming an entrepreneur.

[00:53:41] Coffee as a passion project.

[00:57:36] The evolution of coffee.

[00:58:50] Coffee: simple yet complex.

[01:01:53] Animal abuse in coffee industry.

[01:05:25] Coffee and productivity.

[01:09:43] Caffeine in yerba mate.

[01:10:29] Coffee and health.

[01:16:09] Starting a business without plans. [

[01:22:17] Tattooing and priorities.

[01:25:09] Business advice and startups.

Connect with Dave:

Daves website: https://davekennedymusic.com/#home

James Coffee: https://jamescoffeeco.com/

Connect with Aaron:⁠

Website: http://www.chatsandtatts.com⁠

Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@chatsandtatts

IG: http://www.instagram.com/chatsandtatts

Chats & Tatts YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/chatsandtatts

Aaron IG:⁠ http://www.instagram.com/aarondellavedova⁠

Guru Tattoo: http://www.Gurutattoo.com

In this episode, Aaron discusses the significance of processing emotions in a healthy way, how being the underdog fuels her, and what it was like to win the Ultimate Fighter Season 30 with his guest Juliana "Killer" Miller.

Juliana gets emotional as she shares personal stories of triumph and pain, almost quitting MMA fighting and signing up to become a military pilot, but found someone who believed in her and encouraged her to keep going. Juliana also gets candid about how sex sells and how, on social media, changing her physical appearance from sweating in the gym to looking attractive helps her financially and in her career as she strives to become more than a fighter in the world of MMA. She emphasizes the importance of being 100% committed and consistent in pursuing goals, and how sometimes it takes hitting rock bottom to make a change.

She shares her personal experience of feeling frustrated and angry, but finding release and a healthier way to channel her emotions through martial arts, which helped her deal with manic depression and learn how to overcome it. She believes that incorporating self-defense and emotional intelligence programs into school districts can have a positive impact on children's lives and help them develop important life skills. Overall, the episode emphasizes the importance of taking action and making positive changes in one's life to achieve success and happiness.

[00:00:00] Overcoming fear in MMA.

[00:07:36] Fighting for financial stability.

[00:12:30] Overcoming childhood trauma.

[00:17:00] Traumatic relationship and fighting.

[00:19:29] Women's self-defense seminar.

[00:22:21] Incorporating self-defense in schools.

[00:26:05] Surviving rock bottom moments.

[00:30:18] Overcoming mental obstacles.

[00:36:02] Learning to forgive oneself.

[00:39:37] Forgiveness and trauma.

[00:41:57] Breaking the abuse cycle.

[00:45:30] Overcoming adversity and commitment.

[00:49:09] Procrastination and change.

[00:52:18] Changing gender roles.

[00:56:15] Women & femininity in combat sports.

[01:03:32] The highs and lows of fighting.

[01:07:00] Dealing with a tough loss and finding gratitude.

[01:25:29] The meaning of "bushi".

[01:50:15] Moving forward after tragedy.

[02:00:22] Controlled chaos in fighting.

Quotes:

• "But it might sound funny, but like I'm comfortable in the underdog position. Every time people write me off and are like, she's going to lose, I shock the world."

• "Defend yourself at all times, which correlated to my life huge because I had been through so many things from childhood."

• "My life's purpose is to help protect the youth by creating systems that will change the world."

• "I think the moral of the story is everything is possible as long as you want it."

• "The universe does not like wishy-washy half-ass attempts at things."

• "If you're a hot girl, you're going to get paid 10 times more."

• "shoot your shot a thousand times, baby, because eventually, it's going to land."

• "When you get around people that are winning, it just oozes into you in some weird energetic way."

Connect with Juliana:

IG: /https://www.instagram.com/killermillermma

Connect with Aaron:⁠

Website: http://www.chatsandtatts.com⁠

Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@chatsandtatts

IG: http://www.instagram.com/chatsandtatts

Chats & Tatts YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/chatsandtatts

Aaron IG:⁠ http://www.instagram.com/aarondellavedova⁠

Guru Tattoo: http://www.Gurutattoo.com

In this episode, host Aaron Della Vedova interviews Nate Olukoya, the winning contestant of The Bachelorette Season 18 and a tattoo enthusiast.

In this episode, reality tv. vs. real life and Nayte's take on his time on The Bachelorette are not the only topics discussed. Aaron and Naytedelve into the concept of stoicism, which emphasizes the importance of understanding what is within our control and what is not. The idea of nonresistance and accepting life as it comes is also discussed, with the understanding that we cannot always know the reasons behind certain events. The ancient stoics are praised for their ability to focus on what they could control in their difficult lives, which allowed them to pursue truth more effectively.

Nayte shares how he believes people often torment themselves with negative thoughts and anxieties about the future. He explains that our imagination can be disruptive and destructive, making us worry about what could happen in six months or beyond. However, they also note that the reality of the situation is often not as bad as our anxious thoughts make it out to be. They encourage listeners to focus on the present moment and not let their imagination and negative thoughts about the future consume them.

They also discuss how relationships can be tested by the chaos of everyday life, such as work stress and other pressures. They argue that being able to maintain a relationship through these challenges is important and creates a stronger bond between partners. Nayte emphasizes the value of going through difficult times together and knowing one's own strength and worth in a relationship. They suggest that reality TV removes this aspect of relationships and does not provide a true thermometer of what a relationship is really made of and they highlight the importance of being able to maintain a relationship in the midst of life's chaos and challenges.

Lastly, we tatt! We find out about Nayte's first tattoo that he paid for with a few Four Locos in college. Then Nayte takes a needle to the kneecap. Don't miss this one!

Here is the breakdown:

[00:00:12] Firewall for relationships.

[00:03:19] Reality TV addiction.

[00:05:43] Immigration and moving to America.

[00:08:34] Winning "The Bachelorette"

[00:12:56] Blissful relationships are unrealistic.

[00:14:21] Fame and its effects.

[00:17:18] Fame and Reality TV.

[00:23:02] Cyberbullying on social media.

[00:25:14] Twist your thinking.

[00:30:23] Making a TV show.

[00:31:23] Reality TV and society's impact.

[00:34:03] Authenticity on social media.

[00:38:33] Stoic philosophy and mental health.

[00:39:45] Terrified of dying.

[00:43:12] Living in the present moment.

[00:45:47] Stoicism and nonresistance.

[00:48:33] Enlightenment through hardship.

[00:51:26] First tattoo and Four Lokos.

[00:54:29] Tattoos as memories.

[00:57:29] Kneecap tattoo and meaning.

[01:04:20] Tattoos are addicting.

[01:06:25] Modeling and Real Estate.

Quotes:

"It's up to you whether something is unfortunate or not."

"I've kind of yet to find anything that wasn't ultimately good because either it taught me something or it brought me something I wanted into my life."

"Your imagination is like disrupting you or destroying you way more than reality."

"You just got to focus on what you genuinely can control."

"But you've got to have something, some core philosophy that guides the ship."

"I've been tattooing for 30 years and I made a career out of these big ass sleeves and back pieces. But man, this show has been fun in every way possible."

Connect with Nayte:

IG: https://www.instagram.com/kingbabatunde/

Connect with Aaron:⁠

Website: http://www.chatsandtatts.com⁠

Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@chatsandtatts

IG: http://www.instagram.com/chatsandtatts

Chats & Tatts YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/chatsandtatts

Aaron IG:⁠ http://www.instagram.com/aarondellavedova⁠

Guru Tattoo: http://www.Gurutattoo.com

Welcome to Chats and Tatts! In this episode, we are thrilled to have Mark Heylmun, the renowned guitarist of the iconic metal band Suicide Silence, as our special guest.

Mark Heylmun is known for his technical prowess, blistering riffs, and intense stage presence. With Suicide Silence, he has played a significant role in shaping the contemporary metal scene and has a dedicated fan following worldwide.

During our conversation with Mark, we delve deep into his musical journey, how Green Day influenced him as a kid, and explore the creative process behind Suicide Silence's groundbreaking albums. We discuss the band's evolution, their unique blend of deathcore and extreme metal, and the influences that have shaped their sound.

Beyond the music, Mark opens up about his personal experiences, including the challenges and triumphs he has faced throughout his career. He shares insights into the emotional and cathartic aspects of songwriting, highlighting the band's ability to channel raw emotion into their music.

Mark offers valuable perspectives on mental health, an issue that Suicide Silence has addressed through their music. He discusses the band's commitment to raising awareness and fostering conversations about mental well-being within the metal community.

As we wrap up the episode, we dive into Mark's future projects and aspirations, and how Mark and Aaron both feel about aliens. He provides a glimpse into what fans can expect from Suicide Silence's upcoming work and reflects on the band's enduring impact on the metal genre.

Whether you're a die-hard Suicide Silence fan, a metal enthusiast, or simply curious about the life and experiences of a prominent musician, this episode is sure to captivate you. Join us as we embark on a riveting conversation with the incredible Mark Heylmun, unraveling the intricate tapestry of Suicide Silence's music and the mind behind it.

Let's break it down!

00:04:59 Music is a lifelong passion.

00:10:03 Music is powerful and universal.

00:14:06 Experience advanced communication through frequency.

00:20:32 Music is bigger than we think.

00:24:03 Lucid Dreaming: Unlock Your Mind.

00:29:28 Find your own lane.

00:31:30 Follow your dreams, no matter what.

00:39:09 Founding member of Suicide Silence.

00:43:10 Follow your heart and take risks.

00:46:09 Stay in the process.

00:54:59 Metal is a great outlet.

00:56:00 Metal is therapeutic for many.

01:04:44 Live authentically, not recklessly.

01:10:44 Everything happens for a reason.

01:12:09 Death is the biggest teacher.

01:17:49 Explore yourself with Ayahuasca.

01:26:42 Hallucinogens can unlock potential.

01:29:18 Nature is divine intervention.

01:34:21 Empathy and compassion are key.

01:37:46 Believe in UFOs and aliens.

01:45:06 Aliens may be watching us.

01:50:36 Busy touring and tattooing!

01:54:25 Support tattoo artists and Sullen.

Connect with Mark:

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@suicidesilence

IG: https://www.instagram.com/markheylmun

IG Suicide Silence: https://www.instagram.com/suicidesilence

Jackson Guitars: https://www.jacksonguitars.com

Connect with Aaron:⁠

Website: http://www.chatsandtatts.com⁠

Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@chatsandtatts

IG: http://www.instagram.com/chatsandtatts

Chats & Tatts YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/chatsandtatts

Aaron IG:⁠ http://www.instagram.com/aarondellavedova⁠

Guru Tattoo: http://www.Gurutattoo.com