063 A year after the last needle pass, what’s left is not just ink, it’s a new way of living inside your own skin. I’m back with Ecko Aleck, who returns to reflect on what it’s actually been like to live with a full bodysuit long after the swelling fades, including the moment the markings helped make it impossible to keep hiding and led her to come out publicly as Two-Spirit.

We talk about the hard, honest mechanics of transformation during ancestral skin marking and cultural tattooing: hitting a pain threshold, the shaking that can take over, and the deep breaths that follow. Ecko connects breathwork to waves and even to childbirth, where you grieve an old self while bringing a new self forward. We also explore trauma-informed practice in real terms, including the idea that shaking can be part of completing a trauma cycle and why grounding through the senses can bring you back when your mind tries to flee.

From warm hands and aromatherapy to a heavy blanket and a “wellness basket,” we break down what community care looks like in a tattoo room and why support people can be foundational, not optional. We also zoom out to the bigger arc: monumental Indigenous portraiture, stewardship, the power of practitioner gatherings like the Nlaka'pamux Blackwork Roundup, and how personal healing ripples outward into family, community, and the planet.

If you care about Indigenous tattooing, ancestral skin marking, Two-Spirit identity, healing, and what real transformation demands, hit play. Subscribe, leave a review, and share this conversation with someone who needs a reminder that they are not alone.

You can find Ecko @sac.red.medicine

Check out my tattoo work at:
https://www.consumedbyink.com
Instagram @dionkaszas

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062 A lot of people want ancestral tattoos but feel stuck on one brutal question: “Am I enough to wear them?” I sit down with Inuit hand poke tattoo artist Jessica Coffey to talk about the real, complicated middle ground between pride and doubt, revival and responsibility, beauty and protocol. What unfolds is a candid look at Indigenous tattooing as living community work, not a perfect script you memorize before you’re allowed to belong.

Jessica shares how she found hand poke tattooing when there were few professional pathways, why the apprenticeship debate can hide deeper barriers like racism and exclusion, and how a practice built at home can still be clean, skilled, and deeply intentional. We also talk about identity and being white passing, the shame of not knowing what colonization worked so hard to erase, and why cultural markings can become both armor and a doorway back to self.

Then we get into the hard part: cultural appropriation, who gets what, and how to protect closed practices without turning into someone who only says no. I explain my “safekeeper” approach to ancestral visual language, what I choose to share or not share, and why the face carries different responsibilities. We also touch on access in Newfoundland and Labrador, training future Indigenous practitioners, and how the meaning of these marks can evolve for today while staying rooted in relationship and responsibility.

If you care about Indigenous tattoo revival, Inuit tattooing, hand poke tattoo ethics, and cultural reclamation, listen all the way through. Subscribe, share this with someone who needs it, and leave a review with your biggest takeaway or question.

You can find Jessica at: @bespoke_poke

Check out my tattoo work at:
https://www.consumedbyink.com
Instagram @dionkaszas

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https://ko-fi.com/transformativemarks

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061 A chin marking can be more than a design. Sometimes it becomes a vow you carry every time you look in the mirror.

We sit down with Anishinaabe hand poke tattoo artist Gillian Prince (Waubanungohnse) to talk about Indigenous tattooing, ancestral skin marking, and how a practice becomes a way of living. Gillian shares how  tattooing entered their life young in a rough time, learning safety and technique, then turning toward cultural responsibility through traditional tattoo gatherings and community relationships. We also get honest about why keeping it grassroots is important, what it means to protect the marking experience, and how travel invitations from communities changed the shape of practice.

A big part of our conversation is sobriety and presence. Gillian explains how receiving chin markings became a commitment to live sober so they can truly hold space for others. We talk about trauma-informed care in tattoo sessions, how triggers can surface in the body, and why skills from mental health and addictions work transfer directly into cultural tattoo practice. We also name the hard part practitioners rarely discuss: secondary trauma, emotional energy, and how to debrief without breaking confidentiality through breath, smudge, quiet time, and making more art.

We close with joy and pride and why “perfect” lines are not always the point in hand poke tattooing. If you care about Indigenous cultural resurgence, traditional tattooing, or what it takes to do healing work without burning out, this one will stay with you. Subscribe, share this episode with someone who needs it, and leave a review to help more listeners find Transformative Marks.

You can find Gillian at: @waubanungohnse

Check out my tattoo work at:
https://www.consumedbyink.com
Instagram @dionkaszas

Buy me a Coffee at:
https://ko-fi.com/transformativemarks

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#060 The journey from addiction to wholeness often requires powerful medicine. For Nicholas Wawia, that medicine came in the form of ancestral skin marking – specifically, the forward-facing red lines across his face that remind him daily to "keep my sights forward" on the red road of sobriety.

In this raw, heartfelt conversation with host Dion Kaszas, Nicholas shares how traditional tattooing practices became central to his recovery and identity reclamation. "I need something a little more to reclaim my identity, because all I knew was addiction," he explains, revealing how facial markings serve as both spiritual and practical guides through challenging moments. The horizontal lines keep his vision "locked" forward, while upward-pointing marks ensure his eyes are "guided right back up" whenever they drift downward – a powerful metaphor for maintaining focus on healing.

What makes Nicholas's perspective particularly valuable is his position as an emerging practitioner finding his way. Unlike established artists with decades of experience, he offers relatable insights from someone early in their journey, creating accessible entry points for others hesitant to begin exploring ancestral practices. His story demonstrates how Indigenous artforms aren't frozen relics but living traditions that address contemporary challenges like addiction recovery and identity formation.

The conversation moves between deeply philosophical reflections on creating "new old" traditions and practical discussions about establishing Trilllectric Tattoo, Nicholas's health-inspected studio in Sudbury. Throughout, both artists emphasize creative expression as medicine: "I owe my life to art," Nicholas states, explaining how marking has kept him connected to purpose and community. Their exchange illuminates how traditional skin marking transcends mere decoration to become a transformative practice of healing, reconnection, and cultural resilience.

Whether you're interested in indigenous tattooing practices, recovery journeys, or the power of art as medicine, this episode offers profound insights into how ancestral wisdom can guide us through modern challenges. Subscribe now to join this transformative journey and discover how traditional practices are helping Indigenous communities heal one mark at a time.

I hope you have enjoyed this episode, and I am excited to travel the world of Indigenous tattooing with you as we visit with friends and colleagues from across the globe doing the work.

You can find Nick at:
Instagram @trillectrictattoo and @gchiwaabooz.azhaasowin

Check out my tattoo work at:
https://www.consumedbyink.com
Instagram @dionkaszas

Buy me a Coffee at:
https://ko-fi.com/transformativemarks

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#059 Anne Spice's journey into ancestral tattooing reveals a profound path toward healing that extends far beyond artistic expression. Beginning as casual practice at a land occupation, her work evolved when she returned to her Whitehorse community with a crucial shift in perspective—approaching people with service rather than extraction. "I went in thinking about how I could be of service," Anne explains, "and it was a game changer."

This conversation uncovers how Indigenous tattooing functions as literal medicine, marking significant life transitions from sobriety to grief processing. Working directly with her community health center, Anne has developed tattooing as part of their wellness practice, creating space for community members to honor their healing journeys through permanent marks. The physical pain of receiving a tattoo can release emotional pain stored in the body, reaching places "that our words can't reach"—a powerful tool in a world where Indigenous ceremonies marking life passages have been disrupted.

Anne speaks candidly about her frontline land defense experiences and how afterward, receiving a large back tattoo helped her process trauma physically when mental approaches weren't enough. This highlights a crucial aspect of Indigenous tattooing: helping people define themselves through cultural connection rather than opposition to colonial forces. "These aren't markings that make us separate, unique people," she reflects. "They're markings that mark us as part of a collective, as people in relation." For those working to revitalize ancestral practices despite gaps in knowledge, Anne offers encouragement: "It's really worth having the patience and sitting through some of the discomfort to get to the point where our communities start opening up again." Her words remind us that transformation happens when we connect through relationship, opening ourselves to collective healing that transcends individual experience.I hope you have enjoyed this episode, and I am excited to travel the world of Indigenous tattooing with you as we visit with friends and colleagues from across the globe doing the work.

You can find Anne at:
Instagram @annespicetattoo

Check out my tattoo work at:
https://www.consumedbyink.com
Instagram @dionkaszas

Buy me a Coffee at:
https://ko-fi.com/transformativemarks

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#058 Prepare to be inspired by the incredible journey of Missy Mahan, an Indigenous tattoo artist with roots in the Tohono, O'odham, Yuchi, and Muscogee Nations. With over a decade in the tattoo industry, Missy has skillfully woven her cultural heritage into her art, co-owning Desert Bloom Tattoo in Phoenix, Arizona. Discover how Missy navigated the challenges of the pandemic with financial creativity, all while deepening her connection to ancestral tattoo traditions. Through her lens, we explore the profound cultural significance of traditional facial markings and their role in tribal identity and coming-of-age ceremonies.

Listeners will gain insight into the ongoing debate about authenticity in indigenous tattoo practices. We explore how to balance traditional methods with modern techniques, highlighting the adaptability of cultural practices over time. We discuss the importance of visual language and lived experiences, challenging the notion that authenticity is solely tied to ancient methods. Through personal anecdotes and historical examples, Missy offers a fresh take on what it means to authentically embrace one's heritage in the contemporary world.

Join us as we celebrate the vibrant Indigenous tattoo and music festival on Turtle Island, where collaboration among artists and musicians breathes life into cultural traditions. Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, the festival has become a beacon for cultural exchange, with aspirations to expand nationally and internationally.  Tune in for an enlightening journey into the world of indigenous tattoos and the artists committed to keeping these powerful traditions alive.

I hope you have enjoyed this episode, and I am excited to travel the world of Indigenous tattooing with you as we visit with friends and colleagues from across the globe doing the work.

You can find Missy at:
Instagram @missymahanart

Check out my tattoo work at:
https://www.consumedbyink.com
Instagram @dionkaszas

Buy me a Coffee at:
https://ko-fi.com/transformativemarks

I acknowledge the support of the Canada Council for the Arts, ArtsNS and Support4Culture

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#057 Imagine reclaiming lost traditions through the art of Indigenous tattooing. Mel, a two-spirit person of Red River, Michif, guides us through their transformative journeys of cultural reconnection. They share compelling stories about the resilience of Indigenous identities in the face of colonial challenges, drawing intriguing parallels between Indigenous and Irish histories. This episode promises insights into how tattoos are not just art but powerful symbols of identity and healing, especially for those seeking to reconnect with their roots.

Listeners are invited into an intimate conversation about the personal journeys of identity and healing through the world of traditional tattooing. We explore the intricate balance between academic life and community commitments, examining the pressures and triumphs that come with pursuing a PhD focused on Indigenous tattooing as a form of healing. Dion and Mel share their own pivotal experiences with tattooing, revealing how this ancient practice serves not only as a form of personal expression but also as a vital tool for communal care, especially for two-spirit, trans, and Indigenous women.

Throughout our discussion, we tackle the complexities of Indigenous governance and identity, reflecting on the impact of colonial legislation and the ongoing struggle for cultural reclamation. We address the challenges of fostering safe and accountable spaces within the tattoo community, emphasizing the importance of dialogue and collective responsibility. With stories that touch on everything from the misuse of Indigenous art forms to the powerful exchanges that occur during tattoo sessions, this episode offers a profound exploration of how artistic expression can lead to both personal and communal healing. Join us as we navigate these rich and multifaceted conversations, pushing forward the narrative of love, resilience, and positive transformation.

I hope you have enjoyed this episode, and I am excited to travel the world of Indigenous tattooing with you as we visit with friends and colleagues from across the globe doing the work.

You can find Mel at:
Instagram @theoriginalmel

Check out my tattoo work at:
https://www.consumedbyink.com
Instagram @dionkaszas

Buy me a Coffee at:
https://ko-fi.com/transformativemarks

I acknowledge the support of the Canada Council for the Arts, ArtsNS and Support4Culture

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# 056 Discover a new perspective on tattooing that beautifully intertwines cultural significance, safety, and spiritual healing. With insights from Indigenous artists like Ecko Alec and Jacqueline Merritt, this episode unveils the transformative potential of reclaiming ancestral skin marking practices while confronting personal biases. Listen as we promise to guide you through creating spaces infused with respect, where everyone feels embraced and protected, fostering genuine spiritual and emotional connections.

Through our conversation, we tackle the pressing issues of harassment and discrimination within the tattoo industry, highlighting the challenges faced by women, minorities, and other underrepresented groups. We underscore the crucial need for systemic change, inspired by movements like #MeToo, to ensure that the tattooing space is inclusive and empowering. Our guests share their stories, emphasizing the importance of consent, trust, and setting clear boundaries to build safer environments for all.

We wrap this episode with a thoughtful discussion on the intersection of tattooing and societal norms, particularly regarding gender identity. Through personal stories and expert insights, we shed light on how shifting industry practices can support authenticity and safety for everyone involved. By embracing education and self-awareness, we aim to inspire a new generation of tattoo artists and clients to challenge the status quo, leaving a legacy of empathy and respect.

I hope you have enjoyed this episode, and I am excited to travel the world of Indigenous tattooing with you as we visit with friends and colleagues from across the globe doing the work. 

You can find Ecko at:
Instagram @sac.red.medicine

You can find Jacqueline at:
Instagram @qwendetlig

You can find Geanna at:
Instagram @thebodymodfia

You can find Romeo at:
Instagram @zentattoo

You can find Naomi at:
Instagram @naomikingtattoos
YouTube @naomiking

You can find Nate at:
Instagram @nate.hartley.tattoos

Check out my tattoo work at:
https://www.consumedbyink.com
Instagram @dionkaszas

Buy me a Coffee at:
https://ko-fi.com/transformativemarks

I acknowledge the support of the Canada Council for the Arts

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#055 Crystal Kimewon's journey into Indigenous tattooing is nothing short of transformative and deeply inspiring. We explore how her dream of opening Intertribal Tattoos became a reality, fueled by a passion for healing and self-expression. Crystal opens up about her empowering path, from covering self-harm scars with tattoos to receiving her Anishinaabe spirit name, which fused her identity with ancient cultural roots. Her story is one of resilience, showing how tattoos can serve as powerful tools for overcoming trauma and celebrating cultural identity.

Our conversation expands into Crystal's experiences with marking a respected healer and her daughters, which was a profound exploration of community, tradition, and personal healing. We discuss the dynamic process of turning hand poke marking into a mobile business and the importance of preserving cultural integrity while encouraging learning and understanding. Through heartfelt anecdotes, Crystal illustrates the importance of community support in personal evolution and the healing power of traditional practices.

Join us as we explore the spirit-led connections made in South Dakota, emphasizing the beauty and resilience of Indigenous tattoo medicine. We highlight the evolving understanding of traditional markings as cultural symbols and affirmations of identity, especially among Indigenous women and two-spirit individuals. This episode is also a reflection on gratitude, where we acknowledge the potential within each person to make a positive impact through shared humanity. Crystal’s journey showcases the transformative power of cultural practices and the collective strength found in community bonds.

I hope you have enjoyed this episode, and I am excited to travel the world of Indigenous tattooing with you as we visit with friends and colleagues from across the globe doing the work.

You can find Crystal at:
Instagram @inkbeader13

Check out my tattoo work at:
https://www.consumedbyink.com
Instagram @dionkaszas

Buy me a Coffee at:
https://ko-fi.com/transformativemarks

I acknowledge the support of the Canada Council for the Arts, ArtsNS and Support4Culture

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#054 What if reclaiming your cultural heritage could transform your identity, heal past traumas, and empower your future? That's the journey we're on as we conclude the first season of the Transformative Marks podcast. This episode brings together voices from across the globe, including insights from cultural tattoo practitioner Nahaan, who sheds light on the complexities of cultural appropriation and its impact on Indigenous communities. We celebrate the resurgence of ancestral tattooing, a powerful act of cultural resistance, healing, and empowerment, that reinforces the connection to land, identity, and community.

Join us as we navigate the intricate landscape of Indigenous sovereignty and the profound role tattooing plays in this ongoing struggle. Through conversations with guests like Geanna Dunbar and Keith Callahoo, we explore the critical importance of consent and creating safer spaces within the tattoo industry. We draw parallels to movements like Me Too, underscoring the responsibilities of practitioners in safeguarding mental health and fostering an environment of respect. By sharing personal stories and community insights, we honor the sacredness of these practices and the resilience of Indigenous peoples.

As we wrap up this season, I express my deepest gratitude for the voices and allies who have supported and enriched these conversations. Guests such as Julie Pama-Pengelly and Hacki Williams remind us of the importance of cultural exchange and innovation in preserving our heritage. We urge our listeners to continue supporting the revival of these meaningful traditions, standing in solidarity with Indigenous communities. By doing so, we honor not only the past but also the transformative power of tattooing for personal and cultural healing.

I hope you have enjoyed this episode, and I am excited to travel the world of Indigenous tattooing with you as we visit with friends and colleagues from across the globe doing the work.

You can find Terje at:
Instagram @terje_k
YouTube: @terjekoloamatangi2946

You can find Jacqueline at:
Instagram @qwendetlig

Check out Keith's work at:
Instagram @ohnatattoo

You can find Gord at:
Instagram @gordonsparkstattoos

You can find Nahaan at:
Instagram @chilkat_tattoo

You can find Julie at:
Instagram  @julesartistmoko

Check out Nolan Malbeuf at:
Instagram @malbeuf

You can find Megan at:
Instagram @livetextiles

You can find Haki at:
Instagram @hakimoko

You can find Makwa at:
Instagram @makwa .mashkiki

You can find Kanenhariyo at:
Instagram @Kanenhariyo.tattoo

You can find Geanna at:
Instagram @thebodymodfia

You can find Ecko at:
Instagram @sac.red.medicine

You can find Julious at:
Instagram @aotearoa_arts

Check out my tattoo work at:
https://www.consumedbyink.com
Instagram @dionkaszas

Buy me a Coffee at:
https://ko-fi.com/transformativemarks

I acknowledge the support of the Canada Council for the Arts, ArtsNS and Support4Culture

Support the show