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Join Jon Mesa and Matt Truiano, and special guests Lalo Yunda from Colombia and Ozzy Garcia from Puerto Rico in a lively episode of The Honest Tattooer Podcast. 

 Ozzy shares how his path to specializing in Polynesian tattoos took him from Puerto Rico to New Zealand, working in historic tattoo shops and learning from master artists. 

The group  discusses the importance of energy and personality in tattooing, the impact of TV and social media on the industry, and the technical details of tattoo machines. 

Featuring a surprise unboxing of a $24.99 tattoo machine kit from Amazon, this episode is packed with engaging conversations, tattoo history, and practical tips for tattoo artists. Don’t miss this entertaining and informative discussion!


👥 Follow Our Hosts & Guest:
 • Jon Mesa: @jonmesatattoos
 • Matt Truiano: @matttruiano
 • Lalo Yuna: @lalotattoos
• Ozzy Garcia: @tattoosbyozzy


💡 Sponsors:
• Tattoo Pro – The all-in-one software solution for tattoo shops: https://tattoopro.io


• Tattoo Armour – The ultimate aftercare and tattoo protection solution: https://tattooarmourusa.com


• Tattoo Smart – Industry-leading digital tools for tattoo artists: https://tattoosmart.com


• Force of Focus – The premium coaching community for tattoo artists: https://forceoffocus.com



• Steadfast Tattoo Supply – Providing professional tattooers with the best quality equipment on the market. For tattooers, by tattooers    https://steadfasttattooco.com/    

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In this episode of the Honest Tattooer Podcast, hosts Jon Messa and Matt Truiano welcome the talented Magie Serpica, a seasoned tattoo artist with 24 years of experience. Magie discusses her journey from Brooklyn to Staten Island, emphasizing the evolution of the tattoo industry from a flash-based world to specialized art styles. They delve into her experiences at various tattoo conventions, notably her challenging yet enlightening experience at the recent Philly Tattoo Convention. The discussion also covers the impact of social media on tattoo artists, the importance of learning different tattoo techniques, and the dynamics of celebrity tattooing, highlighted by the recent tattoo removals of Pete Davidson. Tune in for an insightful conversation packed with industry tips, personal anecdotes, and the vibrant stories of tattoo culture.

👥 Follow Our Hosts & Guest:
 • Jon Mesa: @jonmesatattoos
 • Matt Truiano: @matttruiano
 • Magie Serpica: @magieserpica.tattoo



💡 Sponsors:
• Tattoo Pro – The all-in-one software solution for tattoo shops: https://tattoopro.io

• Tattoo Armour – The ultimate aftercare and tattoo protection solution: https://tattooarmourusa.com

• Tattoo Smart – Industry-leading digital tools for tattoo artists: https://tattoosmart.com

• Force of Focus – The premium coaching community for tattoo artists: https://forceoffocus.com

• Steadfast Tattoo Supply – Providing professional tattooers with the best quality equipment on the market. For tattooers, by tattooers    https://steadfasttattooco.com/                                   

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

00:28 Maggie's Tattoo Journey

02:16 Staten Island Tattoo Scene

05:17 Challenges of Tattooing in Different Locations

10:39 Convention Experiences and Reflections

13:48 Philly Convention Struggles

20:10 Adapting to the Modern Tattoo Industry

34:12 Balancing Kids and Tattoo Conventions

35:57 Tattooing Techniques: Coils vs. Rotaries

36:36 Teaching Tattoo Apprentices

41:23 Exploring Tattoo Machines

48:07 Celebrity Tattoos: Pete Davidson's Journey

56:04 Laser Tattoo Removal Insights

01:00:09 Podcast Wrap-Up and Announcements

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Join Jon Mesa and Matt Truiano on the Honest Tattooer Podcast with special guests Ermes, Vega, and Matt Buck. They dive deep into their tattooing experiences and preferences, discussing favorite inks, needles, and machines. The conversation explores the impact of AI on various fields, including tattooing and medicine, and debates the future of the tattoo industry with new artists entering the field. The episode also touches on the historical influence of Ukiyo-e art and contemporary techniques. Don't miss out on this engaging and insightful discussion!

👥 Follow Our Hosts & Guest:
 • Jon Mesa: @jonmesa
 • Matt Truiano: @matttruiano
 • G Money: @gmoneytattoos
 • Ermis: @ermisart

 • Matt Buck: @he_draws
 • Vega: @lastrewards

💡 Sponsors:
• Tattoo Pro – The all-in-one software solution for tattoo shops: https://tattoopro.io
• Tattoo Armour – The ultimate aftercare and tattoo protection solution: https://tattooarmourusa.com
• Tattoo Smart – Industry-leading digital tools for tattoo artists: https://tattoosmart.com
• Force of Focus – The premium coaching community for tattoo artists: https://forceoffocus.com

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Jon Mesa and Matt Truiano are joined by tattoo artists G Money and special guest Gerald Feliciano. Gerald shares his journey from starting as a tattoo artist in Brooklyn in the early 2000s to owning his own shop. He discusses the challenges and growth he experienced, including his early struggles in the Bronx, his transition to a private studio, and the importance of continuously learning and improving different tattoo styles. The episode also features a tattoo critique segment and conversations about the nuances of digital vs. traditional art. A must-watch for aspiring and seasoned tattoo artists alike

👥 Follow Our Hosts & Guest:
 • Jon Mesa: @jonmesa
 • Matt Truiano: @matttruiano
 • G Money: @gmoneytattoos
 • Gerald Feliciano: @geraldfeliciano

💡 Sponsors:
• Tattoo Pro – The all-in-one software solution for tattoo shops: https://tattoopro.io
• Tattoo Armour – The ultimate aftercare and tattoo protection solution: https://tattooarmourusa.com
• Tattoo Smart – Industry-leading digital tools for tattoo artists: https://tattoosmart.com
• Force of Focus – The premium coaching community for tattoo artists: https://forceoffocus.com

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Send us a text

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

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Join hosts Jon Mesa and Matt Truiano on the Honest Tattooer podcast as they dive into an enriching conversation with special guest Eric Whitman. In this episode, Eric shares his journey of 10 years in the tattoo industry, focusing on traditional tattoos and his aspirations to tackle larger illustrative work. The discussion delves deep into Eric’s personal experiences, his spiritual journey through Hinduism, and his insights on karma, culture, and the art of tattooing. Eric reflects on the complexities of tattoo shop dynamics, personal growth, and the integral relationship between tattoo artists and clients. This thought-provoking episode offers a blend of spirituality, industry insights, and personal anecdotes, making it a must-watch for anyone interested in the deeper aspects of tattooing and self-discovery.


👥 Follow our hosts and guest:
 • Jon Mesa: @jonmesa
 • Matt Truiano: @matttruiano
 • G Money: @gmoneytattoos
 • Eric Whitman: @ecwhitman

💡 Sponsors:
  • Tattoo Pro: https://tattoopro.io
  • Tattoo Armour: https://tattooarmourusa.com
  • Tattoo Smart: https://tattoosmart.com
  • Force of Focus: https://forceoffocus.com

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In this episode of the Honest Tattooer Podcast, hosted by John Mesa and Matt Truiano, the team chats with special guest Joshua Clark from Sinful Skin in Danielson, Connecticut. With over eight years of experience, Joshua shares his journey into the world of tattooing, his preference for colorful realism and new school styles, and valuable tips for improving tattooing skills. The discussion covers analyzing your work, the importance of proper shading, learning techniques from YouTube and books, the significance of composition and contrast, and much more. Tune in for an enlightening conversation packed with practical advice for both new and experienced tattoo artists.

💡 Sponsors:
 • Tattoo Armour: https://tattooarmourusa.com
 • Tattoo Smart: https://tattoosmart.com
 • Tattoo Pro: https://tattoopro.io
 • Force of Focus: https://forceoffocus.com

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In this episode of the Honest Tattooer Podcast,  our hosts Jon Mesa and Matt Truiano celebrate the New Year with a fun and competitive twist. They introduce a variety of tattoo artists, including Aaron Moonan, Nikki Simpson, and Joe Capobianco, who discuss their backgrounds and tattoo styles. The main event is a lively game of Pictionary, where the artists take turns drawing and guessing challenging tattoo-themed prompts. Hilarity ensues as the teams vie for points, struggling with both easy and hard categories under a time limit. Watch to see which team emerges victorious in this hilarious New Year special!


👥 Follow our hosts and guest:
 • Jon Mesa: @jonmesa
 • Matt Truiano: @matttruiano
 • G Money: @gmoneytattoos
 • Joe Capobianco: @joecapobiancotattoos
 •.Nikki Simpson: @nikkisimpsontattoos
 •.Aaron Moonan: @aaronmtattoos

💡 Sponsors:
 • Tattoo Armour: https://tattooarmourusa.com
 • Tattoo Smart: https://tattoosmart.com
 • Tattoo Pro: https://tattoopro.io
 • Force of Focus: https://forceoffocus.com


00:00 Welcome to the Honest Tattooing Podcast
00:20 Meet the Guests
01:27 Introducing Joe Capobianco
02:02 Let's Play a Game!
02:29 Explaining the Rules
03:34 Game On: Drawing Challenges
06:43 Rock, Paper, Scissors Showdown
08:50 Competitive Spirit and Fun
14:09 The Challenge Begins
14:32 Dragon Doodles
15:46 Falcon Confusion
17:37 Bear with an Axe
19:48 Chimera Guessing Game
22:11 Grandma Drawing Struggles
25:35 Final Round Frenzy

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In this lively and insightful episode, a group of tattoo artists delve deep into various topics, including the role of AI in art, the importance of maintaining traditional artistry, and the impact of digital tools on creativity. They also share their personal New Year's resolutions, focusing on artistic growth, community building, and personal development. Join the conversation as they discuss the challenges and rewards of being a professional tattoo artist in a rapidly evolving industry.

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In this special Christmas episode of the Honest Tattooer Podcast, hosted by John Mesa and Matt Truiano, guest Dean Sahar shares his fascinating journey into the world of tattooing. From his early days hanging out in tattoo shops in Israel and London, through his extensive industry experience, to finally becoming an apprentice under the legendary Anil Gupta, Dean's story is both inspirational and educational. The episode also touches on the importance of drawing skills, the transition from shop assistant to tattoo artist, and the various challenges faced along the way. Whether you're a tattoo enthusiast or an aspiring tattoo artist, this episode is packed with insights and personal anecdotes that highlight the perseverance and passion required to succeed in this creative field.

👤 Follow our hosts and guests:
 • Jon Mesa: @jonmesa
 • Matt Truiano: @matttruiano
 • Dean Sarah: @deansahar

📢 Sponsors:
 
 • Tattoo Armour: https://tattooarmourusa.com
 • Tattoo Smart: https://tattoosmart.com
 • Tattoo Pro: https://tattoopro.io
 •  Force of Focus: https://forceoffocus.com

🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe and hit the bell for notifications. Thank you for your support, and stay tuned for more candid conversations from the tattoo world!

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