The longest-running podcast on the medium of Colored Pencil. Bringing you Inspiration and innovation in the ever-changing world of colored pencil since 2015. We discuss tips, techniques, shortcuts, and all the nitty-gritty of this medium that we love so much. We interview the very best artists working in colored pencil today. Raw-cut, early-release, and ad-free video interview versions are available to Members Circle, part of the Monthly Sharpener community.
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Welcome to The Business of Tattooing—the podcast that goes beyond the ink to dive deep into the industry, the hustle, and what it really takes to succeed in the world of tattooing. I’m Rob Smead, founder of Electrum Supply, and your guide through the business side of this ever-evolving art form. Each week, we’ll break down the latest trends, tackle the challenges artists face, and sit down with industry pros to talk shop—unfiltered and straight to the point. Whether you’re an artist, a shop ...
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REVENUE READY CREATIVE | Grow Your Art Business Online, Art Business Coaching, Increase Productivity, Passive Income for Self-Employed Artists
Heather Allen, MGIM-MBA | Author & Art Business Consultant for Creative Professionals
Calling all artists, makers, crafters and designers! Are you tired of navigating your art business all by yourself? Do you wish you had straightforward business support designed for creative professionals just like you? Have dreams of business growth without sacrificing your integrity? You’re in luck! Class is now in session and you have a first-row seat to your next semester of creative business growth. What’s more? You don’t have to do it all alone. Join Heather Allen MGIM-MBA — author, bu ...
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"Forecasted" dives deep into the world of music, hosted by a passionate music creator with a profound love for all genres. With a special fondness for hip-hop culture, the host offers listeners an authentic perspective as both a fan and a student of the craft. Each episode features in-depth interviews with musicians, from rising stars to seasoned legends, exploring their journeys, creative processes, and the inspirations behind their art. While music takes center stage, the show also delves ...
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DESIGN FUTURECAST is Maria Lorena Lehman's journey through design explorations and experiments ― where breakthrough questions intersect with expansive design thinking to shift your own creative path toward more innovative heights. Imagine yourself in the future, asking questions about a design solution you are creating today. With elements of visionary time-travel...Every episode examines cutting-edge investigations from a new perspective ― exploring the design experiment and its result in t ...
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Learn from stylist, educator, Paul Mitchell Focus salon owner and entrepreneur Sonny D as he shares insights into the business of the beauty industry. Every stylist needs to be part artist part entrepreneur and this is where you can come sharpen your skills. Here we will hack topics like finance, growing a business, being an owner, and much more.
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51. Are My Revenue Goals Even Possible? 🤔
13:39
13:39
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13:39Are my revenue goals even possible? 🤔 This question requires more than just a yes or no response. If I were to answer this for you, I’d be tempted to say, “Absolutely yes your revenue goals are possible” because the optimist in me believes with strategy, planning, faith in your vision and follow through, just about anything is possible... But the s…
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Episode 142 - Grand Wizzard Theodore (DJ & Inventor of the Scratch)
55:39
55:39
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55:39Send us a text Grand Wizzard Theodore is a legendary figure in hip hop history, widely credited as the inventor of the scratch technique—a groundbreaking innovation that transformed the turntable into a true musical instrument. Born and raised in the Bronx, his creative spark and fearless experimentation laid the foundation for modern DJing, influe…
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THE BUSINESS OF TATTOOING - EPISODE 17 - LU SKYWALKER
57:34
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57:34In this episode, tattoo artist Lu Skywalker joins the show to chat about his 18-year journey, from chaotic convention days to prioritizing health and creativity. We dive into industry challenges (Pittsburgh’s lack of regulation, AI ethics), the power of community, and why tattooing needs better education. Plus, Lu’s passion for card games and his d…
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50. Career Advice from an Art Veteran ✏️🗒️ Summer School Interview with Artist Eric McRay ✏️🗒️
25:57
25:57
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25:57✏️🗒️ Summer School is now in session! Throughout the month of July, join me here on the Revenue Ready Creative podcast each Monday for conversations with guest experts in art and design who are ready to drop knowledge on topics like building resilience in self-employment, getting your name out there in the community, switching to a value-based pric…
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Send us a text Yung Dead Lake is an East Coast-rooted emcee repping PG County Maryland and Hawaii. The rising artist is a force in the new generation of hip hop. Known for electrifying crowds with high-energy performances, his stage presence is undeniable. But beyond the hype, he’s also a skilled writer whose lyrics dive deep into the caverns of hu…
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Episode 139 - Jus Allah (Shotgun Carousel * Iron Sharpens Iron)
59:18
59:18
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59:18Send us a text For this session, we welcome back Jus Allah, a New Jersey-based rapper known for his sharp, socially conscious lyrics and his impactful time as a member of the underground hip-hop group Jedi Mind Tricks. Jus Allah played a key role in shaping the group's gritty, dark sound on classic albums such as Violent by Design. His thought-prov…
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Send us a text Erik Solo is a veteran wordsmith and producer whose roots trace back to San Diego, where he began making lo-fi pause tapes with a turntable, Casio SK-1, and tape deck. He came up in the 1990s DIY scene, forming his first crew, Section Nine, in junior high, and later co-founding mic.edu while at UC Santa Barbara’s KCSB radio with long…
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Episode 138 - Nesquik (Emcee & That's Hip hop Podcast Host)
1:07:38
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1:07:38Send us a text Nesquik is a talented emcee and producer from Southern California known for his gritty, head-nodding beats and razor-sharp rhymes filled with wordplay and introspection. A true creator and passionate student of the culture, Nesquik channels his love for hip hop into every verse and every instrumental. His deep appreciation for the ge…
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THE BUSINESS OF TATTOOING - EPISODE 16 - KRIS LACHANCE
1:57:31
1:57:31
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1:57:31In this episode, we talk with Kris Lachance of Splash of Color Tattoo about building a culture of safety, structure, and accountability. From shop management to safety standards, this episode offers critical insight into what it takes to run a successful and safe tattoo studio in 2025. Watch the full video on YouTube: https://youtu.be/aFDGTQRV6Yo A…
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49. Finding Resilience and Community as a Self-Employed Artist ✏️🗒️ Summer School Interview with Painter Pete Sack ✏️🗒️
18:16
18:16
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18:16Summer School is now in session! Throughout the month of July, join me here on the Revenue Ready Creative podcast each Monday for conversations with guest experts in art and design who are ready to drop knowledge on topics like building resilience in self-employment, getting your name out there in the community, switching to a value-based pricing m…
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THE BUSINESS OF TATTOOING - EPISODE 15 - CODY GOWER
2:14:21
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2:14:21In this episode, we sit down with Tennessee’s own Cody Gower to discuss the impact of AI in tattooing, what it takes to be a successful traveling artist, and the challenges associated with sponsorship models. From staying loyal to your roots to navigating the noise of social media, Cody shares raw insight, stories from the grind, and why showing up…
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Send us a text Aïda is a powerhouse female emcee whose charismatic delivery and razor-sharp punchlines make her a force on every track. Known for her hard-hitting lyrics and commanding presence, she brings unmatched confidence every time she steps to the mic. An unbelievable live performer, Aïda electrifies crowds with her energy and authenticity. …
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48. Stop Pricing Small. Start Pricing Like a Pro. ✏️🗒️Summer School Interview with Designer Kenzi Green ✏️🗒️
20:24
20:24
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20:24✏️🗒️ Summer School is now in session! Throughout the month of July, join me here on the Revenue Ready Creative podcast each Monday for conversations with guest experts in art and design who are ready to drop knowledge on topics like building resilience in self-employment, getting your name out there in the community, switching to a value-based pric…
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THE BUSINESS OF TATTOOING - EPISODE 14 - DURB MORRISON
2:23:42
2:23:42
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2:23:42This week on The Business of Tattooing, we sit down with the legendary Durb Morrison, tattooer, founder of Hell City Tattoo Festival, and lifelong creative. From his early roots in tattooing to building one of the industry’s most respected events, Durb shares powerful insights on longevity, mental health, pour painting, and what it means to grow bo…
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47. Artist Marketing 101: How to Get Your Name Out There In Your Community ✏️🗒️Summer School Interview with CEO Jenn McEwen ✏️🗒️
23:24
23:24
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23:24✏️🗒️ Summer School is now in session! Throughout the month of July, join me here on the Revenue Ready Creative podcast each Monday for conversations with guest experts in art and design who are ready to drop knowledge on topics like building resilience in self-employment, getting your name out there in the community, switching to a value-based pric…
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Episode 119 - John Doe / 1200 Hobos (Gimme Some Elbow Room)
27:31
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27:31Send us a text John Doe, a veteran turntablist from Cincinnati’s legendary 1200 Hobos crew, returns with his latest release, Gimme Some Elbow Room, dropped on May 9, 2025. Inspired by a line from Ice Cube in Da Lench Mob’s “Guerrillas in tha Mist,” the track showcases John Doe’s signature blend of dusty samples, sharp scratches, and turntable wordp…
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Send us a text Buddha and Big Riccio are two rising hip-hop artists out of Northern California, making waves in the Bay Area scene with their modern, catchy sound and relentless grind. Longtime friends turned collaborators, the duo has been building their name from the ground up, driven by a shared passion and an unshakable work ethic. Buddha doubl…
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Send us a text Leslie Lew, known globally as the “Warrior,” is an International Keynote Speaker, Humanitarian, Coach, and 3x Author. She is a trailblazing women’s self-defense expert dedicated to empowering women and marginalized communities. As the founder of Reclaiming Your Courage and co-founder of the Warrior Queens Rise movement, Leslie leads …
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Episode 118 - Indigo Phoenyx (Forged in Fire & Noir Wonderland EPs)
54:59
54:59
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54:59Send us a text Indigo Phoenyx is an East Coast based rapper, journalist, and CEO of Rugged Triad Records renowned for her prolific output. As a journalist, Indigo brings a unique perspective to her music, often weaving narratives that reflect her experiences and insights into the industry. Her role as CEO of Rugged Triad Records underscores her com…
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Send us a text Carlito Black is an East Coast rapper, entrepreneur, and mental health advocate whose music and mission are deeply rooted in resilience and community upliftment. Carlito transformed personal adversity into a powerful narrative to champion independent artistry and urban culture. As a mental health advocate, Carlito uses his platform t…
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Send us a text DJ M-1 is a Dublin-based hip-hop producer, DJ, and audio engineer who has become a cornerstone of Ireland’s underground rap scene. Known for his gritty boom-bap beats, soulful samples, and masterful scratching, he has collaborated with artists worldwide. With releases on respected labels like Chopped Herring Records, Icy Palms, and T…
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THE BUSINESS OF TATTOOING - EPISODE 13 - MICHELLE & EAIN VARGA w STACIE RAE
2:08:00
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2:08:00In this week's powerful episode, we dive into the sacred side of tattooing with Michelle and Eain Varga of Varga Medical Art and Stacie-Rae, pioneer of trauma-informed tattooing. We explore tattooing as ancient medicine, how it can help clients heal emotional wounds, reclaim identity, and reconnect with their bodies. This conversation reminds us th…
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46. 3 Ways to Use AI as Your Creative Assistant 🤖
14:41
14:41
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14:41Chasing down material costs... Trying to build a timeline you can share with clients... Staring at a blank page when it’s time to write about your work... Spending hours pulling reference images or mockups just to get your ideas across. As a self-employed artist or creative business owner, these kinds of tasks can eat up your energy before you even…
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THE BUSINESS OF TATTOOING - EPISODE 12 - MARY BLAKE
1:51:32
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1:51:32In this week's episode, we sit down with the incredible Mary Blake, hailing from Golden Yeti Tattoo in Franklin, Tennessee. Mary is a powerhouse in the tattoo industry, known for her stunning and versatile work, her commitment to excellence, and her leadership in cultivating a client-first studio environment. We dive deep into her journey from aspi…
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Send us a text Braille is an emcee from Portland, Oregon, known for his unique blend of introspective lyricism and thought-provoking storytelling. His classic album Shades of Grey showcases his skillful wordplay and deep reflections on life, faith, and the human condition, earning him a dedicated fanbase in the hip hop scene. Braille’s catalog of m…
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Episode 115 - Jaybrio Pe Benito (Pro Super Featherweight Boxer)
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33:05Send us a text Jaybrio "The Hitman" Pe Benito is an undefeated professional boxer from Hawaii competing in the super featherweight division. He began boxing at age 9 and currently trains with the Wild Card Boxing Club under the legendary trainer, Freddie Roach. He recently improved his professional record of 6-0 after a unanimous victory over Sebas…
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Episode 114 - Katrina Olan (Sci-Fi Author: Tablay)
1:18:10
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1:18:10Send us a text The Manila based and best selling science fiction author Katrina Olan is best known for her groundbreaking novel Tablay. Released in 2019, Tablay blends futuristic mecha warfare with Philippine mythology, reimagining creatures like the aswang as techno-organic adversaries in a dystopian future Manila. Beyond writing, she has a backgr…
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Episode 109 - Mykill Miers (F.O.C.U.S. LP)
45:11
45:11
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45:11Send us a text Mykill Miers is a California rapper, songwriter, and producer known for his distinctive blend of horrorcore rap and thought-provoking lyricism. Emerging from the Los Angeles hip-hop scene, Miers gained recognition for his dark, intense subject matter and raw, gritty sound. He’s particularly known for his appearances on the legendary …
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Episode 107 - Bobby J from Rockaway (Higher LP)
38:59
38:59
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38:59Send us a text Bobby J from Rockaway is a dynamic rapper hailing from the vibrant borough of Queens, New York. Known for his smooth delivery and raw, authentic storytelling, Bobby J captures the essence of his upbringing, blending his personal experiences with broader cultural narratives. His music delves into themes of perseverance, hustle, and th…
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Episode 108 - Wordsworth (Two Kings LP)
1:12:46
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1:12:46Send us a text Wordsworth is a multi-talented rapper, actor, and educator best known for his impactful appearances on the iconic TV show Lyricist Lounge and his contributions to hip-hop. The highly skilled lyricist with a sharp flow is also part of the critically acclaimed group eMC. Beyond his musical career, Wordsworth has also showcased his musi…
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Episode 111 - Kickztopher's Shoe Customization
1:00:16
1:00:16
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1:00:16Send us a text Christopher Merto is an accomplished entrepreneur and international relations professional from San Diego, California. The UC Santa Cruz graduate combines his passion for creativity and design with his global experiences. He is also the proud owner of Kickztopher, a popular shoe customization business where he brings unique artistic …
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Episode 106 - BlackLiq (of Strange Famous Records)
1:21:14
1:21:14
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1:21:14Send us a text BlackLiq is a versatile rapper, radio show host, dedicated teacher and mentor, signed to Strange Famous Records. Known for his sharp lyricism and unique storytelling, he blends introspective themes with powerful beats, creating music that resonates deeply with listeners. In addition to his music career, he hosts a radio show where he…
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Send us a text Jus Allah is a New Jersey-based rapper known for his sharp, socially conscious lyrics and his impactful time as a member of the underground hip-hop group Jedi Mind Tricks. Joining the group in the late '90s, Jus Allah played a key role in shaping the group's gritty, dark sound on classic albums such as Violent by Design. His thought-…
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Episode 113 - Jise One (The Arsonists)
1:29:15
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1:29:15Send us a text Jise One, a founding member of the influential New York hip hop group, The Arsonists, emerged from the underground scene of Brooklyn in the 1990s. He is a multifaceted artist whose talents extend far beyond the mic. As a lyricist, his sharp, introspective bars and dynamic stage presence helped define The Arsonists’ signature sound, b…
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Send us a text Rymeezee is a Filipino American emcee from the Bay Area, California. Raised in the Excelsior District, he began his musical journey in the mid-1990s, initially engaging in battle rap before transitioning to more serious music production. Over the years, Rymeezee has released multiple projects, showcasing his versatile rhyme delivery.…
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In this episode of Design Futurecast, Maria Lorena Lehman explores how to accelerate and heighten architectural design workflows — not by producing more, but by thinking deeper. Learn how to engage sharper design intelligence that allows for strategic decision-making on the fly, solving converging problems while unveiling unforeseen opportunities. …
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44. Guidance for Your Q2 Review: No Numbers This Time! 🕊️
15:57
15:57
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15:57Hey, Creative Boss! It's Quarterly Review time. A touchpoint in your business, four times per year, in which you assess and evaluate what matters most to you. It's a healthy practice to have these specific touch points to see how far you are with your goals for the year. I'll give you questions and prompts to help guide your Quarterly Business Revi…
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Episode 103 - DJ Puffs, D-Adobe Shift & Memphis Reigns
1:06:32
1:06:32
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1:06:32Send us a text Session with the LA based DJ Puffs and Bay Area b-boy and emcee, D-Adobe Shift. Both are long time friends of Memphis Reigns, dating back to the late 1990s where they first met at the University of California, Santa Cruz. Tap in for a light hearted conversation on superstitions, New Year rituals, Candy Crush, Korean Dramas, staying c…
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Send us a text DJ Moves is a producer and turntablist based out of Canada. He is known for his deep roots in the independent hip hop scene. The Nova Scotian rooted beatmaker has 60+ albums under his belt. He started DJing in 1991 and eventually found his way to music production. His gritty, irreverent and raw style reflects his deep love for diggin…
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Send us a text Panik is a renowned music producer and a key member of the influential Chicago-based hip hop collective, The Molemen. Known for his intricate production style, he has helped shape the sound of underground rap, blending soulful samples with hard-hitting drums. Panik’s work has earned him the highest respect in the hip hop community, c…
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THE BUSINESS OF TATTOOING - EPISODE 11 - TROY TIMPEL
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2:03:54In this episode of The Business of Tattooing, Rob sits down with Villain Arts founder Troy Timpel—apprentice to Philadelphia Eddie and mastermind behind one of the world’s largest tattoo convention circuits. They dive into Troy’s roots, his work ethic, and what it takes to build a lasting legacy in the tattoo world. If you’ve ever wondered what it …
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43. What’s the True Cost of Your Work? Pricing Formula for Artists 💲
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20:10When you think about pricing your work, your workshops, your services, and your final collections ... do you just want to throw up? There is so much emotional influence associated with landing on that final number. And that's before even asking someone to pay it... I get it. I’ve been there personally and I see it when I work with artists to define…
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THE BUSINESS OF TATTOOING - EPISODE 10 - SKIZZY SCOTT
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2:25:01In this raw and real episode, tattoo artist and muralist Skizzy Scott returns to talk about what it really takes to last in the game. From authenticity vs. imitation to burnout, business, and mental health, this one’s all heart, hustle, and hard-earned truth. A must-listen for anyone trying to build something real in the tattoo world. Watch the ful…
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42. How to Plan for Time Off: Tips From Artist Christy King 🏖️
21:44
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21:44When was the last time you took a vacation? Do you have one coming up? Or do you have another type of leave of absence coming up (planned or otherwise) that will definitely interrupt your work? Tune in for a few tips to help you prepare yourself, your inventory, and your customers for any pause in work that might affect your business and availabili…
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THE BUSINESS OF TATTOOING - EPISODE 09 - SHAUN KAMA
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2:15:03This week, we sit down with the one and only Shaun Kama, a legendary tattoo artist, punk rock rebel, and the undisputed King of Halloween Tattoos. From apprenticing under Mark Mahoney to tattooing at the Punk Rock Museum and launching the mobile tattoo empire Ravens Nest Productions, Shaun shares his journey through horror, hustle, and artistic leg…
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Feel like you're hitting low point? Are things dull, tired, or totally uninspired? Do you find yourself in a rut lately? Feel like you’re just going through the motions? If being self-employed—turning your creativity into your livelihood—is starting to wear on you and take it's toll... If suddenly you find that the joy is getting buried under the h…
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40. From Pop-Ups to Passive Income: Hallie Kohn’s Artist Journey 🎨
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21:18Today, I’m taking you into a conversation with one of my current clients, Wisconsin-based oil painter, Hallie Kohn. Hallie became my art business coaching client a few weeks after I became her newest collector. Right away, we worked through a visioning exercise that set her up for her own Revenue Ready Plan. Ready to work together to create your ow…
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THE BUSINESS OF TATTOOING - EPISODE 08 - CHRIS ALLEN TAYLOR
1:41:44
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1:41:44Chris Allen Taylor joins Rob Smead to discuss preserving tattoo history, building the Indy Tattoo Expo, and honoring the legacy of his mentor, Rabbit Sanders. From walk-in shop grit to big-picture vision, this episode is packed with stories and heart. Watch the full video on YouTube: https://youtu.be/CHB04lHFPXY APT WEBSITE https://safe-tattoos.com…
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39. Your Art Event, Fully Supported—Even on a Budget
19:47
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19:47You know those moments when you’ve poured everything into your work — your time, your energy, your heart — and then it hits you: you might be doing too much, stretching yourself too thin, trying to carry every part of this business on your own... Or those long days where you’ve packed up your car, hauled your work, your displays, your tent, and tha…
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THE BUSINESS OF TATTOOING - EPISODE 07 - SEAN BROWN
1:53:13
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1:53:13Sean Brown joins Rob Smead to talk leadership, regulation, and the future of tattooing, from his days at Eternal Ink to lobbying on Capitol Hill. MoCRA, REACH, artist safety, and corporate transparency, this is the episode every artist and brand needs to hear. Watch the full video on YouTube: https://youtu.be/KR-SmIa-7Ts APT WEBSITE https://safe-ta…
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