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 podcast, we delve into the captivating world of tattoo artistry, guided by the incredible talent of our guest, Dave Warshaw. With his keen eye for detail and boundless creativity, Dave has established himself as a distinguished tattoo artist, leaving an indelible mark on the industry.

Join us as we uncover Dave's journey, from his humble beginnings to becoming a sought-after tattoo artist. Through intimate conversations, we'll explore his inspirations, artistic process, and the evolution of his style. Dave will share his insights on the significance of tattoos as a form of self-expression and discuss how he collaborates with clients to bring their visions to life on their skin.

Beyond the artistry, Dave's experiences as a tattoo artist offer a unique window into the stories and emotions behind the ink. We'll delve into the meaningful connections he forges with his clients, the transformative power of tattoos, and the role of art in healing and empowerment. His son, Wolfgang, also joins us, who tattoos Dave on the show!

Whether you're an avid tattoo enthusiast, an aspiring artist, or simply curious about the world of tattooing, get ready to embark on a journey that celebrates the fusion of art, passion, and self-expression featuring our guest, Dave Warshaw and Chats and Tatts host Aaron Della Vedova. 

Here is the breakdown:

[00:01:11] Living Purely from the Heart. 

[00:03:29] Having Fun in Life. 

[00:07:00] Tattooing as a childhood fascination. 

[00:10:25] Tattoos and toughness. 

[00:16:00] Being an Ace. 

[00:19:05] Music and Tarantula Hawk. 

[00:21:55] Music as alien communication. 

[00:24:09] Tattooing and Divine Intervention. 

[00:28:03] Custom tattoo artwork. 

[00:33:08] Professional Illustration Career. 

[00:34:17] Tattoo artist branding businesses. 

[00:38:04] Intention ceremonies. 

[00:41:23] Career shift and break. 

[00:44:45] Creative store concept. 

[00:49:00] Leaving tattooing and creativity. 

[00:53:21] Magic of tattooing. 

[00:56:10] Tattoo apprenticeship and travel. 

[00:58:59] Tattoo removal and AI. 

[01:02:21] Automation and Artwork. 

[01:05:49] AI-generated art trends. 

[01:09:10] Video games and creativity. 

[01:12:38] Trademarking voices and music. 

[01:16:27] Father-son tattooing dynamic. 

[01:21:58] Meeting different types of people. 

[01:24:48] Practical advice for tattoo artists. 

[01:26:29] Finding artistic voice. 

[01:30:09] Tattoos and interesting guests.

Quotes:

“Cutwater hired me to brand the entire company. So when you look at the Cutwater bottles and you see the cool monsters or the Tiki huts or the skulls or any of that stuff, that's all me."

"If I want money, I write Sony money, 55,000 fucking times, Sony money, Sony money, Sony."

“There is magic in tattooing. That's just so different than any other type of art."

"The greatest gift in life is the fact that you have one."

"I'm keeping court with Kings and that's who I run with, dude."

Connect with Dave: 

Website: https://www.warshawsprovisions.com/

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

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

Twitter: https://twitter.com/WarshawsPrvns

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

Brian Redban's Impact on Podcasts and Comedy Industry:

On this episode of Chats and Tatts, host Aaron Della Vedova welcomes special guest Brian Redban, a comedian, producer, and owner of a comedy club in Austin. They discuss their long friendship, Brian's diverse creative ventures, AI, cancel culture,  and their upcoming tattoo session on the show for Brian's custom Della Vedova arm piece.

Brian Redban played a pivotal role in the growth of podcasts and the comedy industry, notably through the creation of The.  Joe Rogan Experience with Joe Rogan and the wildly popular comedy podcast Kill Tony. His contributions were instrumental in the success of the Death Squad podcast network.

Initially, Brian and Joe utilized Ustream for fan interactions and Q&A sessions, which evolved into the concept of podcasting, garnering widespread popularity. Brian's dedication to managing multiple podcasts, including editing and production, underscored his commitment to the industry. He ventured into entrepreneurship by launching a t-shirt company alongside his podcast endeavors.

The success of Kill Tony, a live podcast featuring comedians performing one-minute sets and receiving feedback, solidified Brian's influence in the comedy realm. The show's format attracted a large audience and provided a platform for up-and-coming comedians.

Tune in for an insightful and entertaining conversation with this hilarious and creative guest!

Chat Breakdown:

[00:00:39] The future of AI in robots.

[00:05:17] Shane Gillis' Tr*mp impression.

[00:10:16] Uncensored comedy and censorship trends.

[00:11:12] Phones at comedy clubs.

[00:16:02] Cancel culture in comedy.

[00:18:23] Comedy booming in Austin.

[00:24:49] Changing the history of earth.

[00:28:12] Starting a podcast network.

[00:39:36] AI and Comedy Potential

[00:44:33] AI's potential for good and evil.

[00:52:28] Men and robots.

Quotes:

"My kids can play on that roof. Yeah, he did. Some kid was up there. Yeah. That's fishy as heck."

 "Anybody that goes to a comedy show and gets that offended, You're a fucking nerd. You are a fucking nerd. Get away from me."

"You don't want to as a person who's worked from the ground up building this craft to see fans be denied. Breaks your heart."

"So really, if you unwind this whole thing, you, Brian Redman, change the history of f*cking planet earth forever."

"A computer can never have a soul. I don't care how smart it gets."

 "We kind of look like a problem. We kind of are a problem. We're kind of fucking a lot of shit up."

"If the nefarious characters of the world really want to fuck with us, they get us totally hooked on this shit, get it fixed to where it's mostly right almost all the time, and then just start plugging in their answers to the questions when they can."

Stay Connected:

Connect with Brian: 

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

Kill Tony: https://www.youtube.com/@KillTony

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

Hailing from a family of Cambodian genocide survivors, Sathya Patterson's parents worked diligently to support their family. Starting with recycling cardboard and cans, they eventually built a small business empire that allowed them to retire in their fifties. This success was achieved through hard work, saving, and making prudent investments in real estate, gold, and diamonds. 

Building wealth through hard work, wise investing, and living within one's means,  coupled with forgiveness and compassion as integral paths  to healing trauma and cultivating self-love, can lead to personal and financial freedom. Sathya Shea Patterson's journey exemplifies this principle. Patterson's experience as a single mother at a young age further reinforced the importance of financial stability. She returned to school when her daughter was three months old, earning a finance degree from Cal State Fullerton. 

Patterson's journey to success in the financial world was also largely due to her commitment to showing compassion towards those who have caused harm, recognizing that they may have been acting from a place of confusion or pain. By delving into her inner child and offering love and acceptance, a spiritual journey and practice that began in her 20s, she was able to heal past wounds and nurture a sense of self-worth. 

Join Aaron and Sathya for a heartfelt discussion on finding purpose, choosing compassion and forgiveness, and embracing life to the fullest.

Chat Breakdown:

00:00:32 - Living a Mindful Life

00:03:06 - Landon Patterson and His Connection to Sathya

00:03:47 - Cambodian Genocide

00:04:57 - The Khmer Rouge and Pol Pot's Regime

00:06:06 - Sathya's Parent’s Survival Story

00:11:06 -  Refugee Camps

00:13:07 -  Western Privilege

00:15:05 - The Human Capacity for Evil

00:16:20 - Ignorance and Unenlightened Actions

00:18:01 - Sathya's Family's Journey to America

00:22:03 - From Recycling to Entrepreneurship

00:24:26 - The Importance of Financial Literacy

00:25:30 - Addressing Trauma and Healing

00:30:26 - Spiritual Growth and Self-Reflection

00:32:49 - The Role of Plant Medicine in Healing

00:34:44 - The Importance of Consistent Spiritual Practice

00:35:32 - The Necessity of Forgiveness

00:38:10 - Compassion and Understanding

00:40:05 - Self-Love and Personal Growth

00:41:21 - Meeting Landon and Building a Family

00:41:35 - Single Motherhood and Pursuing Education

00:43:42 - The Path to Wealth Management

01:09:40 - Building Soul Alignment

01:17:02 - Real love and relationships.

Quotes:

"It was a shame to me that I saw so many Americans living paycheck to paycheck."

 "My family ended up there because we all survived, my immediate family at least, survived the Cambodian genocide that occurred from 75 to 79."

"My dad was so proud to be an American. He said, what's American? Country music? Give me more of that Garth Brooks, you know? So I grew up listening to country music. That's how proud he was to be here."

"It's time to be your own divine mother and father."

“When I'm struggling with forgiveness towards somebody that's hurt me, I often picture them as a child."

"Good people have beautiful relationships. Good people have friends. Good people have wealth. Good people get all the good stuff about life."

"Instead of asking, how do I make more money? Instead ask, who do I need to unbecome to allow more money into my life?"

Stay  Connected:

Connect with Sathya: 

Arise Private Wealth: https://www.ariseprivatewealth.com/sathya-chey

LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/sathya-chey-arisepw/

Heart of Ananda Sound Healing: https://www.instagram.com/heartofananda

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

Tattooing fosters a unique and personal connection between the artist and the client, setting it apart from other art forms. This bond is rooted in several key aspects discussed in the podcast episode.

Host Aaron Della Vedova takes listeners to the Golden State Tattoo Expo in Pasadena, California, where he engages with Tony Mancia, known for his stunning black and gray surrealism work. The conversation delves into Tony's unique style, which blends realistic elements with surreal influences reminiscent of Salvador Dali. Additionally, the episode touches on the artist's ventures into painting and sculpting, showcasing his diverse creative talents.

Also discussed in the podcast episode, anethesia tattooing and the proliferation of social media has created a landscape where tattoo artists are constantly exposed to a vast array of styles and techniques. This exposure can lead to a tendency to replicate popular trends rather than innovate.

Tune in for an insightful discussion about the innovation, passion and hard work that drives the tattoo community.

Chat Breakdown:

00:00:00 - Contests at Conventions
00:02:35 - Tony's Journey into Tattooing
00:04:28 - The Unique Challenge of Tattooing
00:05:38 - The Emotional Impact of Tattoos
00:08:03 - Community and Belonging in Tattoo Culture
00:11:38 - Co-Collaboration in Tattooing
00:14:12 - Tattoo Renaissance and Future Trends
00:15:46 - Impact of Technology and AI on Tattooing
00:19:08 - Revival of Minimalist and Tribal Tattoos
00:22:12 - Analog Art vs. Digital Art
00:23:06 - Social Media's Role in Tattooing
00:23:38 - Anesthesia Tattoos Debate
00:30:56 - Personal Choice in Tattooing
00:33:05 - Purpose of Tattoo Conventions
00:34:28 - Trophy Culture at Conventions

Quotes:

"Tattoo of the Day makes people go insane."

"When you do a tattoo, you're saying, I'm going to be different. I'm going to express myself in this way, and I'm going to have to stick with it to the bitter end."

"Just like dating, you better vibe."

"Every morning I wake up, I see another level of somebody doing something. I'm like, Holy shit, can it get any better? And it keeps going."

"AI seems to be this shiny new toy that it's very impressive... but it is homogenizing."

"I want a real fucking painting with fucking pubic hair stuck in it, you know?"

"I think it devalues the process and I think it also kind of puts this idea in people's heads that like, well if I have the money, right, I can act this way or do this..."

"We are going to do whatever we want and don't judge me."

Connect with Tony: 

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

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

From Struggling with Trauma to Finding Unconditional Love through Art: The Inspiring Journey of Artist Bo Bramwell  

SUMMARY 

Aaron Della Vedova welcomed Bo Bramwell to his tattoo shop a year and a half ago, and after only a week, the guest had the courage to follow his dreams and become a freelance artist. After a year and a half, Bo’s art and career as a well-known  and respected artist exploded 

Growing up in a Mormon Fundamentalist religion in Utah, Bo was raised in what he describes as a ‘conditional love’ environment that suffocated his dreams, aspirations, and authentic self.  After leaving the church, he was abandoned by many of those who he believed loved him which led to feeling more alone and isolated than ever.  Addiction attempted suicide and eventually, an awakening is the core of this deep, rich conversation on this episode of Chats and Tatts.  

TIMESTAMPS 

0:02:16   Overcoming Trauma and Finding Art

0:04:16   Finding Self-Worth Through Art

0:07:37   Love and Religion

0:08:57   Reconnecting with a Father Figure 

0:11:06   Unconditional Love and the Power of Intention in Relationships

0:13:37   Importance of Work-Life Balance

0:15:22   Balancing Art and Family Life

0:17:02   Breaking Point: Leaving the Mormon Church and Struggling with Addiction

0:20:47   Overcoming Mental Health Struggles and Trauma 0:24:00   Interview with Tattoo Artist: Exploring the Meaning Behind a 350-Hour Masterpiece

0:27:31  The Impact of Psychedelic Experiences on Artistic Expression

0:30:05   Healing Effects of Psychedelic Plant Medicine

0:33:03   Power of Gratitude and the Law of Attraction in Modern Art

0:40:19   Replacing Ego with Gratitude

0:41:47   New Neck Tattoo Design

0:44:45   Exploring Digital Art and Tour Posters

0:47:27   What’s Next for Bo?

Quotes: 

I got ‘Free’ tattoo to represent freedom from the Mormon Church, from toxic relationships, from my old life. 

I think one of the hardest things I've had to learn, and I'm learning every day, is replacing ego with gratitude.

I think if we can step into just being grateful for who we are and what we have, it opens us up to that connection. Because ego destroys connection.

It's really easy to look at someone on a corner and be like, fuck, that guy doesn't work. He's slob, he smells. But if that was your kid, what if that was you? It's so easy to judge. But I don't know, having the life I've had has given me a lot of perspectives, and I think it's the perspective that's important, that can help a lot of people. So that's what I'd like to do.

And for some reason I had this love for the homeless, right? And I painted a portrait of a homeless man with a crown on to represent the idea that we're all worthy regardless of our circumstances. And I looked at it and I just bawled my fucking eyes out for like 2 hours. I called my mom. I'm like, mom, I need to tell the stories of the homeless. Five years later, I ended up in a homeless shelter.

The journey of entrepreneurship, even in tattooing.  where shop owners fight tooth and nail to "make it", is often marked by a series of challenges and uncertainties that test one’s resolve. As discussed in the podcast episode, unwavering commitment and a refusal to give up are essential traits for anyone venturing into the entrepreneurial landscape.

Guest Josh Landan emphasizes that while having a clear vision for a business is crucial, it is the commitment to that vision that truly matters. He states, "the unwillingness to give up is real," and candidly admits that he has put himself through "hell" due to his determination to succeed. Josh began his career as a filmmaker, inspired by the surf culture of Southern California. He was deeply influenced by iconic surf movies and the personalities within that world. However, after years of creating films and documentaries, he found himself yearning for a new challenge. This led him to the idea of starting a beer company, St. Archer Brewing, which he envisioned as a brand that truly represented the California lifestyle he cherished—one that encompassed art, film, skating, and surfing.

Aaron shares his journey as a tattoo artist and craftsman, building a.  successful tattoo business while alsoexploring his diverse interests, including philosophy, spiritual growth, and experimentation with hallucinogenics. As he navigates the challenges of being a business owner, he expresses gratitude for his supportive wife, Holly, who helps him manage the complexities of entrepreneurship. Tune in for an engaging discussion that celebrates creativity and the entrepreneurial spirit!

Chat Breakdown:

[00:02:23] Entrepreneurial journey and sacrifices.

[00:05:13] Transition from filmmaker to entrepreneur.

[00:09:09] Craft beer explosion.

[00:11:16] Craft beer and cultural identity.

[00:16:23] Supportive partners in entrepreneurship.

[00:18:32] Confidence in pursuing dreams.

[00:21:05] Stress and mental health challenges.

[00:27:43] Refusal to lose as motivation.

[00:28:36] Entrepreneur vs. Business Owner.

[00:34:05] Marriage as mutual support.

[00:37:09] Unwillingness to give up.

[00:40:02] Raising money through conviction.

[00:44:13] Creating a business people care about.

[00:48:19] Advice for young people.

[00:49:15] Work ethic in younger generations.

[00:52:48] Entitlement in today's youth.

[00:55:46] AI's impact on future jobs.

[01:01:34] Sci-fi world of technology.

[01:03:05] Youth and societal challenges.

[01:09:16] The impact of negative comments.

[01:10:06] Toxic online environments.

Quotes:

"I'm always experimenting trying to do different things trying to get as much out of this fabulous surreal experience of earth that I can taste feel and touch."

"I didn't ask how much money I would make. I didn't care about any of that. I just wanted to film those guys and be a part of it."

 "You can get about an 80% confidence on a decision. Yeah, there's no certainty in anything. And then, what do you have to say at that point? Fuck it."

"I've never done anything for any of them. That's straight up. I did this for me."

"I've done everything that everyone says is like the dream and been the most miserable by a mile."

"The refusal to lose is a gift and a curse, man."

"This marriage is about you're gonna find dreams and passions and I'm gonna back you."

"I've put myself through hell just because I refuse to lose."

"There's power in that, man. Believing in something so passionately that obstacles tend to eventually melt away."

Stay Connected:

Connect with Josh: 

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

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 touching episode, Aaron and his son share the story of their reunion after years of separation due to an adoption when Aaron was only 16. They are joined by Aaron's wife, Holly, who was a staunch supporter of the reunion and making Dustin a big part of their family life.   

Aaron recounts receiving an unexpected email from his son, leading to their joyous reunion. They reflect on the picture that had been their only connection, a young boy in a yellow lumberjack outfit, the immediate connection, Dustin's upbringing,  blending their family, regrets, and more.   

Tune in to hear their heartwarming journey of adoption, acceptance, love, and a beautiful reunion. 

Chat Breakdown:

Zion Clark was born on September 29th, 1997 in Columbus, OH, with a rare birth defect called Caudal Regression Syndrome that left him without legs. Adopted at the age of 17, two weeks before becoming homeless, saved him in many ways. 

You might know him. from. America's Got Talent, or on Instagram as Big_z_2020, or as the elite wrestler or from his inspirational documentary on Netflix called Zion. Being born without legs hasn't slowed down our guest today on Chats and Tatts.

Zion, a former Kent State wrestler born with no legs, made his professional MMA debut a success in 2022.  He won a unanimous decision over non-disabled opponent Eugene Murray at an event in San Diego called Gladiator Challenge: Seasons Beatings.

Host Aaron Della Vedova dives into the crucial role of having a dominant mindset in wrestling or fighting, and in life. Aaron also reflects on his personal journey of self-awareness and growth. He acknowledges that he was once arrogant and failed to fully recognize the privilege he had as a white male in America. However, as he has matured, he has become more aware of his privilege and understands that not everyone is automatically granted favorable circumstances in life.  They touch on childhood trauma and its effects on adulthood,  and his love for tattoos. 

Join Aaron and Zion for this candid and inspiring conversation.   

Chat Breakdown:

[00:01:20] Acknowledging my privileged upbringing.

[00:04:21] Overcoming adversity and achieving success.

[00:09:04] Collecting information through losses.

[00:14:33] Fire and determination.

[00:17:25] Finding Inner Warrior

[00:22:09] Christian and Buddhist beliefs.

[00:26:31] Existence without exposure to Christianity.

[00:31:23] Childhood trauma and its effects.

[00:36:15] Inequality and human connection.

[00:42:29] Staying hydrated during training.

[00:45:36] Weed and athletics.

[00:54:48] Flow state in wrestling.

[00:57:32] Freedom of speech and censorship.

[01:02:04] Foster care system reform.

[01:06:55] The ring of fire.

Quotes:

"No, fighting gets you into fighting shape. That's why you see these little guys knocking out these big dudes, not because they're stronger than them. They just actually know how to fight. Shit's about to go down."

"I am Zion Clark in Big Z, but I'm also the world's fastest man on two hands, three-time world record holder. I'm also multiple-time All-American at Kent State University."

"Because it's truth. Exactly. And truth, a universal truth I would call it. Universal truth always shows up no matter where you go, no matter what language they're speaking. The truth is the freaking truth, right?"

"Yeah, you get the money from the foster care system, then you get the government-assisted money. So you're a big ticket out of it. You make more money. I was a motherfucking piggy bank."

"I'm regular, yeah, regular food. Dude, I went to the national championships, and the morning that I placed, I had eight soft potato soft tacos from Taco Bell."

"I call it the ring of fire. I think there are the universe, God, call it what you want, is prepared to give us our dreams, but it never just gives them to you right away. It wants to say to you, you really want this? Yeah, I really want this. Okay, I'm gonna make you suffer for just a little while, because I want to make sure it's not talking shit."

"Dude, I lost for years on end, bro. But it was really like... You gotta just learn from your mistakes. And so I just kept coming back and I kept getting my ass kicked and I just kept going back and kept getting my ass kicked."

"Thank you for fucking leaning into life and just taking advantage of all the gifts it has given you and crushing and being an inspiration to so many."

Connect with Zion Clark:

https://www.zionclark.com/

IG: https://www.instagram.com/bigz97/?hl=en

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

Guest Anthony Prince shares his proufound life experiences, which powerfully illustrate that past circumstances do not define our future and who we chosse to be. Growing up in a tumultuous environment, Anthony faced numerous hardships, including a chaotic, militant foster-family life that often resembled a criminal organization rather than a supportive environment. His story highlights how circumstances beyond one's control can lead individuals down difficult paths, often resulting in choices that may seem incomprehensible to outsiders.

Prince shares an intriguing personal story about his first day in prison and the pressure to demonstrate his tattooing skills using a prison-made machine. The narrative delves into the unique dynamics of prison life, habits of inmates, and the pressure to prove oneself. Listeners will gain insight into the challenges and unexpected situations faced in such an environment, and showcases Prince's vulnerability and resilience as he naavigated post-prison life andd a massively successful tattoong career.

Chat Breakdown:

00:01:12 - First Day in Prison and Tattoo Pressure
00:05:01 - Anthony Prince's Early Life
00:08:33 - Life in Foster Care and Crime Mob
00:10:54 - Petty Crimes and Organized Schemes
00:14:22 - Abuse and Running Away
00:17:16 - First Imprisonment and Sentencing
00:19:08 - Refusing to Snitch and Accepting Prison
00:21:13 - Sentencing and Legal Struggles
00:23:12 - Extended Prison Time and Appeals
00:26:02 - Discovering Artistic Talent in Prison
00:27:09 - First Tattoo Experience in Prison
00:32:05 - Learning and Improving Tattoo Skills
00:34:23 - Six Years in Solitary Confinement
00:36:31 - Returning to General Population and Tattooing
00:38:51 - Meeting Future Wife Ashland
00:42:03 - Writing Letters and Building a Relationship

Quotes:

"To be a part of that family, it was like being a part of a gang."

"A lot of people are cool with prison artists, but a lot of people don't care about them."

"When you have enough time, to kind of sober up, not from drugs and alcohol, but just to straighten up."

"If your body breaks down, your health breaks down, your marriage breaks down, all this work you've been putting in all this time, it's not for nothing, but it's a lot of wasted effort."

"Drinking water and doing 10,000 steps a day turned a stage three kidney disease to completely nothing."

"I told myself it's going to be 10 years in February out of prison. I told myself 10 years hard work, and then when we get there, then I'll go ahead and relax."

"Revolution Ink settles into the skin and the skin looks like normal skin again."

"I don't trust our government, to be honest."

"I listen carefully now because I've seen the times when I didn't listen, it was giving me hints."

"In that short of time, how did you get this good? And now I know you just worked twice as much as everybody else."

Stay Connected:

Connect with Prince: 

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

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 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

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

The journey to becoming a successful tattoo artist is often fraught with challenges, as highlighted in the podcast episode featuring Stefano Alcantera. His story illustrates the various obstacles that aspiring tattoo artists may encounter, including a lack of resources, mentorship, and initial struggles with technique. However, it also emphasizes that perseverance and passion can ultimately lead to mastery and recognition in the field.

In this episode of Chats and Tatts, host Aaron Della Vedova welcomes renowned tattoo artist Stefano Alcantara, known for his stunning black and gray surrealism. Recorded live at the Pasadena Golden State Tattoo Expo, the conversation dives into Stefano's journey as a tattoo artist, including his early struggles with tattooing and the pivotal resources that shaped his craft, such as the Huxbalding A to Z book. Stefano shares insights into his artistic process and the passion that drives his work.

Tune in for an inspiring discussion about perseverance in the tattoo industry and the importance of mentorship. Don't miss Stefano's incredible portfolio and the wisdom he imparts throughout the episode!

Chat Breakdown:

[00:02:29] Tattooing in Peru's challenges.

[00:06:19] Discovery of modern tattooing.

[00:07:17] Tattooing journey and self-discovery.

[00:10:40] Tattooing's growth in Peru.

[00:15:46] Commitment to tattoo culture.

[00:19:34] American tattoo shop influences.

[00:22:27] The trust in tattooing.

[00:24:34] Historical impact of tattooing.

[00:28:43] Life-changing tattoo convention experience.

[00:30:33] Tattoo career beginnings.

[00:35:25] Wisdom through life experiences.

Quotes:

"But when you say starving artists, quite literally it was choosing, I might not have enough money for food."

"You had a million reasons to not be doing that and none of them seem to stop you."

"The commitment you must have and the love you must have for tattoo. That touches my heart."

"I feel very blessed and very happy, and sometimes even surprised that somebody trusts you so much to mark their body forever."

"I won best of show in Philadelphia. And that's when I think my life changed because I got offered for a couple of shops to work."

"Be patient. If your heart's pure, I bet you one day you're gonna be like, that was perfect."

"My doors are wide open. Guru tattoo. We'll host you. We'll take care of you. We'll make you happy."

Stay Connected:

Connect with Stefano: 

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

Connect with Aaron:⁠  

Website: http://www.chatsandtatts.comm

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

Creativity often arises from moments of frustration, leading to breakthroughs that feel almost effortless and meditative for the artist. This phenomenon is explored in a podcast episode where Aaron Della Vedova discusses the intricate relationship between frustration and creativity with well-known tattoo artists Sean Foy and Michael Perry.

They delve into the creative process, exploring the often frustrating journey that leads to those exhilarating "aha" moments. Aaron reflects on how these breakthroughs feel almost spontaneous, emerging from a deeper place within ourselves. They discuss the neuroscience behind creativity, revealing how moments of frustration can signal that a breakthrough is on the horizon. Sharing personal anecdotes, this profound episode emphasizes the importance of embracing these challenging moments as part of the creative journey. Join Aaron, Sean and Michael as they navigate the complexities of creativity, seeking truth in a world saturated with information.

Chat Breakdown:

[00:01:06] Creative frustration.

[00:03:40] The journey to becoming an artist.

[00:06:41] Artistic nurturing in family.

[00:11:23] Art as meditation.

[00:19:10] Overcoming life’s obstacles through art.

[00:22:33] Bankruptcy as a turning point.

[00:25:35] Self-love and personal responsibility.

[00:33:20] Sociopaths in leadership positions.

[00:35:38] Tattooing as a form of care.

[00:45:14] Overcoming addiction and recovery.

[00:48:55] Managing the ego's influence.

[00:59:10] Awareness and self-forgiveness.

[01:07:38] Tuning into creativity and emotions.

[01:09:50] Gratitude in challenging times.

[01:21:37] Community and spirituality in tattooing.

[01:30:15] Trust in tattooing and artistry.

[01:36:57] Tattooing under anesthesia debate.

[01:48:49] Tattooing: Trends and Counterculture.

[02:00:10] Adaptation to change in tattooing.

Quotes:

"Now when that frustration happens, I welcome it. I'm just like, oh, I know what this is. This is the part when the breakthrough has got to be really close because I'm fucking really agitated."

"It takes a little courage and it takes you kind of being like, fuck it, I'm doing this, even though it doesn't make a lot of sense."

"Then I turned to gangs and drugs to console myself, because I was so heartbroken."

"Bankrupt and busted, fucking best thing that could have happened."

"The question is, what am I doing that's not allowing it in?"

"If you want to look in that mirror in a few years and love the person staring back at you, you better do right by fucking everybody all the time."

"I like to picture in my own head that I'm the soul. And then I hear the thoughts and I examine them just like a judge."

"In that moment, you just moved the entire human species one millimeter closer to world peace and all the things we all say that the world should be like."

"What other art form do two people get to collaborate at that level?"

"One of the beautiful things about tattooing to me also is like seeing the evolution of what you're doing like any other art form but add into it the trust of the human allowing you to experiment on their body."

"I feel like things just in general in society are kind of like splitting and becoming more polar opposite."

"We're a fully mature industry. And like any mature industry, visibility and marketability are now essential."

"That not giving a fuck thing, good luck. Good luck with that."

Stay Connected:

Connect with Sean: 

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

Connect with Michael:

https://www.instagram.com/michaelperryart

Connect with Aaron:⁠  

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

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

Chats Website: http://www.chatsandtatts.com⁠

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

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

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

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

In this weeks BONUS EPISODE, we chat with CEO and Founder of Maglio Knives, Brandon Hampton.

Brandon has been developing blades for the culinary world & military for well over a decade. Known for his unique,  one of a kind blades, there is no question he err 's on the side of innovation. His entire business is built around sourcing, creating, and using the best possible materials for the knives he designs and creates.  You don't want to miss Aaron chatting with one of the worlds best knife-smiths!

Art comes in many forms.  For my guest this week, it is in the form of designing and crafting masterpiece knives. 

Master Knife Craftsman, Brandon Hapmton, is a skilled artisan with decades of experience in the art of knife making. He transforms raw materials into stunning, one-of-a-kind knives that are both beautiful and functional. 

In college, Brandon began working at Strider Knives to help pay for his studies. While working, Duane Dwyer took him under his wing, eventually apprenticing Brando in learning the craft of knife making. Materials technology, blade geometry, metallurgy, and more were handed down from the master bladesmith to Brandon over the course of over five years. Above all else, Brandon learned from Duane that in the end, the knife should be better for the effort put in.

What we chat about in this episode:

0:28 - Guest intro

2:59 - Brandon's journey in Jiu Jitsu

5:50 - What is Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu?

9:49 - How BJJ is related to psychological healing

12:17 - How Brandon’s love for cooking to his knife-making business

19:11 - Artistry VS Creativity

24:45 - Understanding the beauty of Meglio Knives

31:57 - Brandon reveals his VIP tattoo clients

38:58 - What is Meglio Knives’ passion project

42:41 - How tattoos can make people happy

49:13 - How finding character and excellence has helped Brandon in his career

53:10 - Brandon gets a new tattoo!

Quotes: 

“I think in order to get good at jujitsu, the first thing you need to do is be really good at not being good at something… ‘Is that comfortable for you?’ And, that discomfort is either going to lead you to go well, ‘I want to overcome this,’ or it's going to say, ‘I don't like people seeing me in this vulnerable situation,’… And you have to be okay with not being good in front of other people. And it takes a long time to get better.’ - Meglio Knives 

“I love art. But to me, art is more about eliciting emotional responses whereas craft to me is a little bit more about creating something with a given function. And I am not making a qualitative judgment. It's about going with spirit.” - Meglio Knives 

“There's a difference between those two things: creativity and artistry. Artistry might be more of someone who can sculpt or paint like creativity, that's decision-making. You made decisions that others wouldn't have and a lot of the decisions I can tell right now were the right ones…” - Aaron Della Vedova

“Tattoo matters.” - Aaron Della Vedova

Useful Resources:

• Sign up for Meglio Knives’ newsletter here.
• Join Brandon’s chef community to get updates on his latest knives

Get in touch:

• Follow Brandon on meglioknives.com; Facebook; Instagram
• Connect with Aaron: 
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chatsandtatts/
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/AaronVedova
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aaron.dellavedova/
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@chatsandtatts/featured

A Conversation with Leland Gomez on Tradition and Innovation

Tattooing, particularly Polynesian tattooing, has undergone significant evolution over the years, reflecting a harmonious blend of respect for traditional practices and the incorporation of contemporary styles and techniques. This evolution is not merely a trend but a response to the changing cultural landscape and the need for artistic expression that resonates with modern sensibilities.

In this episode of "Chats and Tatts," host Aaron Della Vedova delves into the rich Polynesian history and evolution of tattooing as an art form witth guest Leland Gomez. Leland reflects on his own experience with old-school apprenticeship, sharing insights about the hands-on skills he learned, such as scrubbing tubes and tuning coil machines. They discuss the cultural significance of tattoos across various regions, highlighting how styles are deeply rooted in their respective cultures—from the traditional tattoos of Samoa and Africa to the unique genre of Japanese tattoos. This episode emphasizes the transformative power of tattooing and its ongoing evolution as a global art form, showcasing the beauty and importance of this ancient practice.

Chat Breakdown:

00:00:44 -Tattooing and Its Cultural Significance
00:02:45 - Contemporary Polynesian Tattooing
00:05:00 - Challenges of Convention Tattooing
00:07:24 - Leland's Artistic Journey and Leap of Faith
00:10:42 - Old-School Apprenticeship Experiences
00:12:56 - Significance of Polynesian Tattooing
00:14:59 - Family Patterns and Cultural Revival
00:16:39 - Cultural Differences in Tattooing
00:17:28 - Wearing Culture on Skin
00:20:22 - Mixing Tattoo Styles: Polynesian and Ornamental
00:22:32 - Renaissance of Ornamental Tattooing
00:27:04 - Teaching as the Final Step in Mastery
00:28:05 - Giving Back to the Next Generation

Quotes:

"Without tradition, without the history of where everything came from, I wouldn't be who I am today."

"We get to wear our inside out when we wear our Polynesian culture on our skin."

"How is anything going to get better if you stay in the same place?"

"I think there's a cultural need as the world evolves and technology just rams forward into our existence, that there is this calling to humanity for certain people to go back to the roots."

"Teaching is sort of that, that last part of a master's journey. And it's also the part where you give back to something that's given you so much."

"Maybe my grandkids can see it and be like, hey man, my pops, my papa did that."

Connect with Leland: 

IG: https://www.instagram.com/inked_leland13

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

Professional Athlete Turned Sold Out Festival Creator  - Johnny Shockey's Fascinating Journey.

SUMMARY 

Johnny Shockey is an interesting individual with an interesting life. He grew up in a small town in southern Alberta, and his dad told him at a young age that sports would be his out. He ended up becoming a professional hockey player before leaving the sport and becoming one of the most well-known festival creators in the live entertainment business.  

Johnny came to the US from Canada with only $40 in his pocket and eventually, his coach gave him $500 to buy food and clothes.  The conversation centers around work ethic and the importance of instilling good characteristics and habits in children, his club, restaurant, and festival career, including the enormously successful Crssd Fest and Under the Big Sky Country Music Festival and Rodeo which he hosts on his 350-acre ranch in Whitefish Montana annually. 

From scrappy and broke kid from Canada to night club owner and music festival success story, raising kids with grit, and cattle ranch talk about Wagyu beef, this is an episode you don’t want to miss.  

TIMESTAMPS 

0:00:00  Introducing Johnny Shockey

0:02:11   Johnny’s Journey from Canada to the US with $40

0:03:48   Appreciating Humble Beginnings and Creating Character

0:06:20   The Role of Work Ethic and Fighting in Professional Hockey

0:08:20   Reflections on Hockey and Life Experiences

0:10:00   Exploring the Rise of Electronic Music

0:13:00  From San Diego Nightlife to Producing Cross Fest and Under the Big Sky Festivals

0:17:31   Creating a Music Festival in a Small Town

0:20:20   Conversation on Wagyu Cattle and Ranching in Montana

0:22:17   Snake River Farms on Wagyu Beef and Craft Meats

0:26:18   Exploring the Intimacy of Tattooing and Music

0:30:55   Designing a Tattoo to Remember a Pivotal Project

0:32:47   Appreciation for Attention to Detail in Event Curating

0:34:00   Creative Thinking and Upcoming Events

Quotes:

You're pretty artistic when it comes to how you curate your environments, your restaurants, your clubs, and your music events. The detail that you put into them is pretty bitchin. 

After 30 years of tattooing, I look back, on all of it, and the thing I'm most satisfied by and proud of is the friendships that were made, my best friends, real people I care about, who I know a lot about. 

Craft meats are a real thing nowadays. Just like wines are just like even cheese down to different things that people are really passionate about. So it's how it's curated, how it's grown, how the story behind it. I think the day I was driving by the grocery store and it said, grass-fed wagyu for sale. And I was laughing to myself. I'm like, well, most I think all wagyu is grass-fed. That's fine.

If you want to go to an amazing venue to see music that has to be right up there with, like, red rock and some of these really famous venues that you created a new one that's brand new, that a lot of people had never been to. And it's gorgeous and it's cool. So congratulations to you on that.

Check out Johnny’s Festivals: 

CRSSD Fest: ⁠https://www.crssdfest.com/⁠

Under The Big Sky: ⁠https://www.underthebigskyfest.com/⁠

Connect with Aaron:⁠ http://www.chatsandtatts.com⁠

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

Guru Tattoo IG: http://www.instagram.com/gurutattoo

On this episode of Chats and Tatts with Aaron Della Vedova, Jason Hoehn, founder of the highly successful Hollywood jewelry line to the stars, Huckleberry Ltd, shares how he gained confidence in his sophomore year in a Catholic school where he encountered a gang member who tried to pick a fight with him. He also shares his insane story as he began a career in modeling, how drugs shaped his experiences early in his life, the home invasion abduction, and how he turned his life around to become a successful entrepreneur and founder of Huckleberry Ltd.  

What we chat about: 

[00:00:00] High school gang member encounter.

[00:03:49] Modeling and Antonio Sabato Jr.

[00:07:10] Modeling agent hype.

[00:12:24] Illegal drug trade in modeling.

[00:14:21] Best weed in Canada.

[00:16:10] Drugs, modeling, and entrepreneurship. 

[00:22:44] Bullying in private school.

[00:26:02] Thai kickboxing at Muay Thai Academy.

[[00:38:35] Home invasion and wealth.

[00:39:15] Making jewelry as a career.

[00:42:25] Million-dollar drug robbery.

[00:47:06] Abduction on Manhattan Beach.

[00:53:08] Lie detector test for drug cartel.

[00:55:18] Spiritual intuition and manifestation.

[00:58:43] Changing your energy.

[01:02:11] Identity and life choices.

[01:05:40] Writing a Book for a Price.

[01:10:35] Cool tattoos vs. meaningful.

[01:12:31] Mickey Mouse, the serial killer.

[01:18:33] Jack of all trades.

Connect with Jason:

https://huckleberryltd.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

The tattoo industry has long relied on traditional methods for creating stencils, typically using carbon copy paper or drawing directly on the skin with markers. However, these methods often present a range of challenges, including difficulties in positioning, the risk of smudging, and limitations in material quality. Enter Standstill, a groundbreaking stencil product that allows tattoo artists to print designs onto a flexible, transparent film, fundamentally transforming the stencil application process.

Aaron Della Vedova explores groundbreaking advancements in tattoo stenciling technology that are revolutionizing the tattooing process with German tattoo artist and creator of Standstill, Philipp Trier.  They discuss the challenges tattoo artists face with traditional stencils, such as inaccuracies and limitations in design placement. With new innovations, artists can now create precise, complex patterns that conform to the body without the usual hassles of cracked paper or misalignments. This episode highlights the potential for efficiency in the tattooing process, promising to save artists valuable time and enhance creativity.

Tune in to discover how these advancements can change the way professional tattoo artists approach their craft!

Chat Breakdown:

[00:01:04] Progress in tattooing technology.

[00:04:00] Innovative tattooing stencil technology.

[00:10:18] Tattooing with polymeric alcohol film.

[00:15:20] Color-coordinated tattoo stencils.

[00:19:11] Stenciling innovations in tattooing.

[00:25:24] Efficient tattoo design application.

[00:28:20] Transfer system for tattooing.

[00:30:07] Client comfort in tattooing.

[00:35:53] Cost-effective tattoo transfer solution.

[00:37:33] Tattoo artist digital assistant app.

[00:42:14] New app for tattoo artists.

Quotes:

"This can be a material where you can project your concept to the skin and tattoo through it without any effort, without any negativity or complication."

"He was able to put this mandala design on this person's knee and I swear you did that in like one minute."

"I limited the moment of when you have to correct your stencil of cleaning it, reproducing it, and doing it again."

 "Proving that we can progress, people. There can be new inventions in tattooing that can be very helpful."

"It's just a much more efficient way to get a design onto a human body, especially when it comes to curves and lumps and bumps and crazy muscles that pop out in different areas."

"I didn't invent it for making the big cash cow here. I invented it first for my own workflow."

"If you're a tattooer and you're looking to make your job and your life easier and making the experience of your client more professional, I think this is a great product."

Stay Connected:

Chats & Tatts:

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

Connect with Aaron:⁠  

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

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

Connect with Philipp:

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

Standstill:  https://www.instagram.com/standstill.de

In this episode, host Aaron. Della Vedova delves into the concept of continuous improvement in the world and the importance of kindness and empathy in our interactions with renowned tattoo artist Paul Dobleman. They express concern about the prevailing trend of people being combative and unwilling to listen to one another. The host specifically highlights the lack of empathy and understanding in politics and the news, expressing frustration with the current state of affairs. They believe that if people could simply listen to each other and show more empathy towards differing perspectives, it would greatly benefit society.

They discuss the importance of acknowledging and embracing one's own emotions, as suppressing them can hinder artistic growth.

Overall, this episode underscores the need for improvement in the world and emphasizes the pivotal role of kindness and empathy in achieving this. It explores how social media can contribute to echo chambers and reinforces the importance of stepping out of these bubbles to foster understanding and communication. Additionally, the episode highlights the connection between emotional awareness and artistic expression, encouraging artists to embrace discomfort and vulnerability as catalysts for creative growth.

Chat Breakdown:

[00:00:09] Tattoos as status symbols.

[00:04:41] Traditional values in tattooing.

[00:06:08] Tattooing trends and styles.

[00:10:21] Renaissance of traditional tattooing.

[00:12:18] Traditional body suits.

[00:14:02] Sailor-style tattoos resurgence.

[00:20:17] Embracing traditional tattoos in SF.

[00:26:49] Tattooing and financial success.

[00:30:11] The evolution of tattooing.

[00:34:06] Childhood freedom and wildness.

[00:42:00] Changing culture of partying.

[00:51:18] Psychedelics for personal growth.

[01:02:14] Hallucinations and compassion

[01:15:43] Tattooing and dedication.

[01:18:09] Rotaries as a tattoo tool.

[01:25:02] Breaking boundaries with creativity.

[01:28:18] The tattoo dream project.

[01:31:53] Tattooing without a formal apprenticeship.

[01:34:07] Traditional tattoo designs.

[01:37:10] Larger tattoo pieces and bodysuits.

Quotes:

"Now you could blow that dragon up and it could be a whole sleeve."

"They're, you know, by putting that trust in me, I feel like it, it comes out the best."

"It was fun when it was more unique."

"There are other people out there that want to take my spot. I need to fight."

"But he has one of his sayings was like the only regrets in life are the risks that you didn't take."

"Everyone could just listen to each other and be a little more empathetic to the other person's position."

"Do you want a formal apprenticeship or just rip on your friends in a garage?"

Connect with Paul: 

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

Website: https://pauldobleman.com

Black Heart Tattoo: http://www.blackhearttattoosf.com/project/paul-dobleman

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 interviews tattoo artist Mike Boyd. The episode begins with a discussion of Franz Marc's artwork, "The Tower of Blue Horses," which inspired Boyd. They continue with a discussion of Boyd's art style and his decision to pursue his unique Picasso style of tattooing. Despite potential criticism, the Cubism artistic movement that inspires his designs has proven to be desired by many around the world. The conversation also touches on social media, modern health, and cultural opinions. Check out Boyd's killer mushroom tattoo he rips on Aaron Della Vedova during the show.

[00:00:00] Avant-garde tattoo art.

[00:03:29] Learning tattoo techniques.

[00:07:56] Tattoo apprenticeship experience.

[00:10:14] Tattooing and art style evolution.

[00:13:41] Watercolor effect and psychedelics.

[00:17:53] Artists breaking through the universal firewall.

[00:22:40] Brexit and UK politics.

[00:24:10] Supply Chain Issues.

[00:28:14] Homelessness in left-leaning cities.

[00:31:15] Mental health crisis among homeless.

[00:34:26] Microdosing with mushrooms.

[00:40:32] Psychedelics experiences.

[00:42:23] DMT and marijuana sandwich.

[00:45:21] Psychedelics and self-improvement.

[00:50:31] Gratitude for being alive.

[00:52:16] The power of hallucinogenics.

[00:56:07] The genesis of the internet.

[01:00:08] Social media addiction.

[01:02:56] Authenticity on social media.

[01:05:40] AI and creativity.

[01:09:25] AI-generated movies and art.

[01:13:09] Becoming cyborgs in art.

[01:20:05] Color theory book for tattooers.

[01:21:56] Large-scale body work.

[01:25:51] Following your heart in tattooing.

Connect with Mike:

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@mikeboyd5654

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

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

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

On this episode of Chats and Tatts, host Aaron Della Vedova sits down with tattoo artist Joao Bosco for a deep conversation that goes beyond tattoos. They discuss life, spirituality, karma, and the effects of AI. 

Life events and challenges are often disguised blessings that lead to personal development and growth. In a podcast episode, Joao Bosco shares his inspiring journey of relocating from Brazil to London to pursue a career in tattooing. Despite feeling like a misfit in Brazil and encountering various obstacles, Joao took a leap of faith and started anew in London without any support network.

Joao's story illustrates how stepping out of one's comfort zone and confronting challenges head-on can foster personal growth. He emphasizes that difficult experiences, such as loneliness and discouragement, can shape one's character and impart valuable life lessons. Joao's narrative showcases how embracing uncertainties and challenges can unveil new opportunities and experiences.Tune in to this philosophical and thought-provoking episode that delves into the depths of human connection and creativity.

Chat Breakdown:

00:00:00 - Starting Out in Tattooing

00:02:01 - Influence and Inspiration

00:03:03 - Joao's Tattoo Shop and Work in LA

00:04:01 - Learning from Different Styles

00:08:24 - Evolution of Tattooing

00:12:24 - Tattoo Industry Culture

00:14:04 - Joao's Early Life and Art

00:16:31 - Growing Up in Brazil

00:18:08 - Heavy Metal Influence

00:20:02 - Transition to Tattooing

00:22:51 - First Tattoo Experience

00:24:01 - Self-Taught Tattooing

00:25:05 - London Calling

00:27:02 - Challenges in the UK

00:29:14 - Language and Cultural Adaptation

00:30:48 - Gratitude and Perspective

00:34:39 - Spirituality and Personal Growth

00:36:00 - Daily Practices and Mindset

00:38:08 - Quantum Physics and Reality

00:39:17 - Inner Conflicts and Anxiety

00:40:10 - Humility in Tattooing

00:42:12 - Evolving Tattoo Industry

00:51:15 The power of AI.

00:54:36 The role of AI in survival.

00:58:49 AI in Music Industry.

01:02:43 The future of live performances.

01:07:02 AI's impact on innovation

01:09:37 AI and soul connection.

01:14:32 Souls in all living things.

01:16:23 AI developing a soul.

01:22:48 Hallucinogens in Western culture.

01:24:12 The species Apex moment.

01:29:18 The pendulum of human evolution.

01:31:33 The power of podcasts.

01:36:27 Government's propaganda campaign tactics.

01:39:29 Twitter files and government influence.

01:43:33 Ignorance is profitable.

01:48:23 Life as a real sci-fi.

01:51:24 20 years in the industry.

01:52:37 Boosting client's endurance.

01:56:18 Empathy in tattoo sessions.

01:59:25]Tattooing between London and LA.

Quotes:

"We need tattoos. We are in a rock band, a metal band. We need tattoos. We need to look cool."

"You want to hang out with people who are doing shit you're not doing."

"Heavy metal changed the course of my life completely."

"If I'm gonna lose I'm gonna lose big."

"Our industry specifically for many years was very easy to get an ego."

"I have no sympathy for folks that tend to dwell in the past and whine"

"I really believe AI could fix the world. I think it has the power to cure disease. I think it has the power to rule nations. I think it has the power to make this planet a better place."

 "I believe the survival of our species depends on AI."

"I think there's gonna be some big events some pretty fucking big ones and it's gonna slap us, slap the world."

"Any harm that we do to someone else, we're doing to ourselves in a way."

"Ignorance is very profitable."

"This shit's getting trippier than three hits of acid."

Stay Connected:

Connect with Joao:   

IG: https://www.instagram.com/@joaoboscoart

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

I’m a skater. It’s that simple.

In today’s episode of ‘Chats & Tatts’ Podcast by Aaron Della Vedova, I am joined by Jamie Thomas, a professional skateboarder, and the owner of Zero Skateboards and Garage Days Collection.

Jamie started skateboarding when he was in high school with friends. His journey wasn’t an easy rock as he suffered to be an ‘outsider,’ slept on the streets, experienced hunger, and fell thousands of times on his skateboard. But these didn’t stop him from wanting to belong in the skateboarding community. Then when the opportunity arose from Ed Templeton's Toy Machine, everyone was all over him.

So for over twenty years in the making, Jamis has redefined the culture of skateboarding and being a skater. He showed a great drive, optimistic approach, outstanding work ethic, and remarkable progression that made his skateboarding career an inspiration to aspiring skateboarders across the globe. He earned the respect that once he hadn’t.

Today, as the original pioneer of groundbreaking street gnar on the board, Jamie continues to push himself in business and skateboarding, while balancing family and life.

Find out how Jamie faced the challenges to land in the career he’s most passionate about, what drives him to do better skateboarding every day, how he fought his inner demons, how faith and Christianity impacted his mindset, and what his future plan is in his career and business. 

Also, you don’t want to miss this episode because, for the very first time, he’ll share the deeper meaning of his tattoos!

Timestamps:

1:21 - Guest intro

2:45 - Jamie’s childhood background and skateboarding journey 

9:34 - The importance of having a support community

15:26 - Jamie’s leap of faith and breakthrough with skateboarding

23:55 - How to conquer life challenges

29:08 - How to start your own brand

33:01 - How Jamie transition from skateboarding to entrepreneurship

43:06 - The impact of the recession on a business

44:17 - Tips and tools to becoming a better version of yourself

51:52 - Why building connections matters in relationships

56:39 -  Jamie reveals the reasons behind his tattoos

Quotations: 

“I wanna focus on skateboarding. I love it! I feel like 15!” - Jamie Thomas

“I felt like I needed to prove to myself that I had value and that I was worthy of being a professional skateboarder.” - Jamie Thomas

“The thing that I'd learned the most was that I'd been humbled and I'd been brought to my knees… what I've been doing the last five years in order to be able to dedicate myself, to the relationships that matter most and humble myself to accept the mistakes that I'd made in the past and to try and learn from them. So they're ultimately not things that I regret. They're things that I appreciate.” - Jamie Thomas

“In the late nineties, I became a Christian. I accepted Jesus as my Lord and Savior because I knew that I had some internal demons that I was suppressing and that I was trying to navigate on my own. I reconnected with my faith...” - Jamie Thomas

“...seeing life through a different lens.” - Jamie Thomas

Useful Resources:

• Shop Zero Skateboards merchandise here: https://zeroskateboards.com/collections/all-products

Get in touch:

• Follow Jamie on zeroskateboards.com; Facebook; Instagram; and Twitter
• Connect with Aaron: 
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chatsandtatts/
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/AaronVedova
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aaron.dellavedova/
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@chatsandtatts/featured

Exploring the taboo topic of money in the art world, Aaron Della Vedova and guest tattoo artist and financial coach, Ryan Roi, delve into the importance of artists' relationships with money. Drawing from his experience owning tattoo shops for over 20 years, he highlights how financial stress can hinder artistic growth. Despite the stigma around discussing money, Aaron and. Ryan emphasize the role of financial freedom in pursuing creative passions.

Thank you to Sullen Clothing for their support and collaboration opportunities for tattoo artists. Tune in for an insightful discussion on the intersection of art and finances, spirituality, and finding balance in a changing landscape.

Chat breakdown:

[00:01:16] Money and artists' struggles.

[00:04:48] The pirate lifestyle in tattooing.

[00:08:25] Overcoming addiction and life changes.

[00:14:23] Ayahuasca experiences and recommendations.

[00:20:21] An ego death experience.

[00:21:58] Deserving self-worth and acceptance.

[00:25:19] Healing through gentle experiences.

[00:30:37] Embracing paradox in spirituality.

[00:34:40] Unbecoming for more money.

[00:37:10] Financial struggles during COVID.

[00:43:40] Scared fearful thoughts of the future.

[00:47:09] The evolution of tattooing.

[00:49:55] Tattooing and financial coaching.

[00:55:42] The growth of tattooing industry.

[01:02:47] Authenticity in marketing.

[01:03:30] Marketing as a lighthouse.

[01:09:33] The psychology behind marketing.

[01:14:31] Self-love and meditation practices.

[01:19:14] The wisdom of primordial sound.

[01:22:04] AI and Spiritual Truth.

[01:30:43] Money and internal struggles.

Quotes:

"You have to let go of control. And when that happens, stuff happens."

"But at its core, the truth God, reality, is paradoxical. And I think I try to embrace that paradox as much as I can."

"Instead of asking, 'how do I make more money?' Start asking, 'who do I need to unbecome to allow more money into my life?'"

"There's that special thing that makes tattooing this weird, strange world that anyone from outside of tattooing could just never fucking get"

"There's a lot of bullshit out there. You should be skeptical of me."

"Creatives are uniquely positioned to be great at marketing."

"It's about building trust. That's what marketing is about building trust."

"That's what they're ultimately demanding right now, at least in the current iteration of the algorithm. They're demanding connection. They're demanding resonance."

Stay connected:

Connect with Ryan: 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ryanroitattoo/?hl=en

The Artful Dollar: https://www.theartfuldollar.com

20% Off Ryans Marketing Course!

https://www.theartfuldollar.com/theartfulmarketer 

Discount Code: chatsandtatts20

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 interviews Elliot Sloan, a mega ramp skater, musician, and avid toy collector. Elliot shares his journey of how he became a skateboarder, his deep respect for taking risks, the challenges and focus it takes to accomplish his goals, and his passion for music and collectibles. Aaron also shares his own experience with skateboarding and how he was inspired by Tony Hawk's 900 at the X Games.

[00:00:00] Tony Hawk's 900.

[00:03:23] Overcoming fear in skateboarding.

[00:07:24] Becoming a pro skateboarder.

[00:10:43] Life-changing moments.

[00:15:02] Moving to California.

[00:19:09] Overcoming failure in sports.

[00:20:59] Child prodigies and gratitude.

[00:25:54] Conjuring up emotions during meditation.

[00:29:10] The importance of taking action.

[00:30:55] Managing pressure and expectations.

[00:33:57] Forgiving yourself after failure.

[00:38:48] Growing up without smartphones.

[00:41:09] Connecting with idols.

[00:44:35] Tattoos and pain.

[00:48:23] Tattoo pain sensitivity.

[00:53:42] Upcoming events for Elliot.

Connect with Elliot:

YoutubeL https://www.youtube.com/c/elliotsloan

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

Connect with Aaron:⁠ 

Website: http://www.chatsandtatts.com⁠

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

Guru Tattoo IG: http://www.instagram.com/gurutattoo

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

We are chatting with none other than world renowned tattoo artist Dave Koenig today on the Chats and Tatts show. 

AI is all the rage these days and everyone is talking about how this will impact different industries.  But how will AI impact the tattoo community and the artistic process of tattooing?  Will tattooing become less personal and more computerized?  We dive into this topic and much more on this episode of Chats and Tatts. 

Dave Koenig is a talented tattoo artist known for his intricate and detailed work. He specializes in a variety of styles, including traditional American, Japanese, and neo-traditional tattoos.

One of the things that sets Koenig apart from other tattoo artists is his attention to detail and use of filigree in many of his pieces.  Koenig is also known for his ability to take a client's ideas and turn them into a beautiful and meaningful tattoos. 

In this episode we go back to the beginning of his career and how he, with small, simple designs or large, elaborate body pieces, acquired the skills and expertise to bring his clients vision to life.

What we chat about in this episode:

0:51 - Guest intro

5:00 - How did Dave’s passion for art started

12:32 - Dave’s 1st tattoo New York convention & machine experiences

15:10- What’s the future of the tattoo industry?

21:10 - The importance of efficiency

24:51 - How to build client relationships

32:45 - Understanding the beauty of Japanese tattooing

38:26 - Ink Positive: Dave reveals his SECRET on creating body art tattoos

41:56 - How to create a flow

47:27 - Is the tattoo industry growing?

51:30 - The connections between music and art

58:21 - Difference between manual and computerized AI tattoos

1:12:10 - Aaron gets a new tattoo from Dave!

Quotes: 

“Just love your clients treat every client like you treat if your brother was in the room or your mother.” - Dave Koenig

“One day, I realized ‘What do I do that loses time, without wasting time?’” - Dave Koenig

“... things evolve, and it'll always be evolving.”  - Dave Koenig

“Some people want that pain they want to build and tell their friends, ‘I got their whole chest piece done with no numbing cream.’” - Dave Koenig

“I think it's just acknowledging that and knowing that I'm here for you, that the client and it's not about me or what I think it should be about.  It’s what you want to talk about in their journey.”  - Dave Koenig

Useful Resources:

• Shop for Dave’s artwork and apparel today!

Get in touch:

• Follow Dave on dkoenigart.com; Instagram; and YouTube
• Connect with Aaron: 
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chatsandtatts/
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/AaronVedova
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aaron.dellavedova/
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@chatsandtatts/featured

In this episode of Chats and Tatts, Aaron Della Vedova welcomes a special guest Bill Canales who has been a significant influence in his tattooing career. Bill is a highly respected traditional Japanese-style tattoo artist known for his dedication to his craft and his focus on the art rather than seeking fame or social media recognition. They discuss work ethic, integrity, and longevity in tattooing versus tattooing from a selfish place for the sake of just great photos. Bill's 30-year career is impressive and led him to open his own shop, Full Circle Tattoo, focused on traditional Japanese tattoo art.  Tune in to hear their insightful conversation.

The chat breakdown:

[00:00:00] Tattooing and its longevity.

[00:05:13] Timing and success in tattooing.

[00:07:01] The longevity of tattoos.

[00:09:54] The evolution of tattooing.

[00:13:00] Tattoo equipment evolution.

[00:16:09] Creating an identity as an artist.

[00:19:00] Amazing tattoos on skin.

[00:23:45] Learning how to tattoo.

[00:26:45] The evolution of tattooing.

[00:29:21] Tattooing becoming more competitive.

[00:31:36] Tattooing for long hours.

[00:34:07] Balancing work and family.

[00:37:24] Tattooing and work-life balance.

[00:42:19] Testing physical and mental limits.

[00:44:11] Tattooists' sustainable eating habits.

[00:47:21] The power of yoga.

[00:51:20] Horyoshi the third's one hour sessions.

[00:54:43] Philip Liu's transformative body art.

[00:56:00] Tattooing and artistic styles.

[01:00:39] The challenges of tattooing.

[01:02:36] Apprenticeships in tattooing.

[01:06:46] The value of apprenticeships.

[01:10:38] Tattooing without drawing on skin.

[01:14:30] Personality in tattooing.

[01:17:43] Nostalgia and evolving artistry. [

01:19:10] Master of dragons.

[01:23:43] Tattoo artist selection process. [

01:27:03] Loyalty in tattooing.

[01:28:20] Year of the Dragon.

Connect with Bill: 

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

Full Circle Tattoo: https://www.fullcircletattoos.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, Host Aaron Della Vedova and his guest, CEO of Hundred Acre Wine Landon Patterson, delve into the concept of time and its relationship to wine. This part 2 takes off where part 1 ended as they discuss how tasting a bottle of wine is like experiencing a moment in time, as the wine evolves from the moment it is made. They explore the idea that time is not linear and how it can feel as though 24 hours is no longer 24 hours. They share personal experiences of time feeling distorted and discuss the malleability of time. Tune in to join the conversation and ponder the mysteries of time.

The chat breakdown:

[00:00:06] Time in the wine business.

[00:04:32] Slowing down in a fast-paced world.

[00:08:56] Perception of time and stimulation.

[00:11:10] The sacredness of time.

[00:15:38] Eastern philosophy and mindfulness.

[00:18:13] Sacredness and its significance. 

[00:24:32] Holding space and listening.

[00:26:16] Holding space and personal growth.

[00:30:44] Weaponizing spirituality.

[00:34:10] Asking questions without repercussions.

[00:36:00] Closing down curiosity in schools.

[00:40:17] Openness in friendship circles.

[00:44:01] Pharmaceutical advertising on television.

[00:46:47] The power of marketing.

[00:51:25] Tattoos and societal perceptions.

[00:54:19] The positive impact of podcasting.

[01:00:00] Tattooing and endorphins.

[01:06:32] Hundred Acre Wine remarkable achievements.

[01:11:03] Aligotay, a rare grape in Burgundy.

[01:17:30] Smelling wine for quality.

[01:19:39] Funky smells in wine.

[01:24:28] Old school winemaking techniques.

[01:25:47] Evolving tastes in music and wine.

[01:32:29] Wine and communal experiences.

[01:34:38] A new paradigm of existence.

[01:40:00] Definition of love. 

Quotes:

"You know, I want life to be more savory and not such a fast food feeling to it." 

"Either you get in and play or go build a cabin in the woods."

"And the more present I am, time slows down."

"The samurai in Japanese believed in Bushido, which was like life in every breath."

"We're losing the sacredness."

"You also realize smashing your head against the wall over and over and over again wasn't going to fix the wall."

"I feel like sometimes it can be weaponized against the person who's just honestly trying to understand."

"What were your intentions? What were you trying to get, were you asking with curiosity? Were you asking why?"

"I love myself unconditionally, and now I'm able to give love to somebody else."

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

Reese Hilburn is a Tattoo Artist, Tattoo Shop Owner, and Spiritual Bisiness Mentor, & Meditation Queen. Her work focuses on helping heart-led intentional tattooers heal their wounds, shadows and traumas, while simultaneously growing and scaling their tattoo business on Social Media.

In this episode of Chats and Tatts with Aaron Della Vedova, tattoo artist Reese Hilburn shares her inspiring journey of overcoming a significant mistake in her career. Aaron highlights the importance of owning one's mistakes and turning them into opportunities for growth and self-expression. Reese's story serves as a powerful example of transformation and resilience in the face of adversity and is a reminder that embracing our vulnerabilities can lead to unapologetic self-expression and empowerment.

Tune in to hear how Reese's experience led to her healing, forgiveness, and the positive impact it had on her life and work.

Chat Breakdown:

[00:00:45] Transformation through embracing mistakes.

[00:06:00] Portrait tattooing and artistic evolution.

[00:07:24] Warrior women in art.

[00:14:37] Struggles with self-identity and social media.

[00:20:24] The gift of rock bottom.

[00:23:38] Turning shame into power.

[00:26:15] Authenticity and self-discovery.

[00:30:17] Finding forgiveness after abuse.

[00:35:31] Healing through tattoos and trauma.

[00:40:09] Different types of meditation.

[00:43:37] Seeking the meaning of life.

[00:46:40] Visualizing future memories.

[00:51:23] Embracing all parts of yourself.

[00:59:44] Life as energy and possibility.

[01:00:58] Personal responsibility and karma.

[01:06:50] Turning grief into creative power.

[01:10:14] Permission and meaning-making.

[01:13:27] Embracing the full human experience.

[01:20:26] Patience and urgency in growth.

[01:21:47] Importance of setting boundaries.

Quotes:

"Owning our shit and how scary that is and walking with our fear and changing the relationship we have with our fear is actually going to turn your insecurities, your shame into power and into unapologetic self-expression."

"This is my alter ego. And so I've really fallen into that love for accentuating someone's own life, almost like their face and putting it on their bodies in the way that they're just like, this is how I see myself almost."

"To get hate, you know, DMs or whatever, some of which were like, you don't deserve to live, you're a lying piece of shit, at such a young age in tattooing, now you're questioning, should I even be here? Do I suck?"

"I was so afraid. I would get almost panic attacks from opening the Instagram because I was so afraid of what someone might say or if someone found me out or something."

"I challenge anybody out there listening to the show right now, Write me if you've never in a weak moment done something silly when you felt that way."

"Because to forgive them means I'm saying it was okay, and oh, by the way, others can do it to me too. No.  That's is not the case at all."

"It's like basically reparenting the inner child, the inner teen, inner young adult, all the kinds of different parts of ourselves in there."

"But if you believe thoughts create reality, boy, you better anchor into that thought, because if you don't, then what happens next?"

"Yeah, be sad, be pissed off. You know, as much as I believe in no resentment and someone screws me over, I might have a couple of days where I'm like, fuck that guy."

"Urgency is the ego."

"It's love to the other too, to put boundaries around, for others to, you know, you really are helping them to grow because they're exploiting you or exploiting a situation."

Stay Connected:

Connect with Reese: 

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

Youtube Channel: thewww.youtube.com/@ArtofReese

Website: theedgeink.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 of Chats and Tatts, host Aaron Della Vedova welcomes two legendary characters of San Diego, Tommy Baumann and Dave Warshaw. They discuss the changing landscape of San Diego over the years, the contributions of long-standing community members and small businesses, and the influence of Tiki culture. Join them for this relaxed conversation as they delve into the history and impact of San Diego's fishing industry, the famous Mai Tai of Bali Hai Restaurant, and the vibrant world of Tiki.

Chat breakdown:

[00:01:29] Tiki culture and local legends.

[00:03:22] Legendary restaurant Bali Hai.

[00:07:25] A visionary ahead of time.

[00:10:03] Tiki culture in America.

[00:13:39] Tiki culture and its vibe.

[00:16:01] Tiki bars and their fantasy.

[00:19:00] Meeting at Tom Hams.

[00:22:01] Community giving and supporting.

[00:26:41] Humane fish harvesting methods.

[00:27:36] The corporate model.

[00:31:03] Building relationships in the service industry.

[00:34:38] Enormous kitchen space.

[00:37:43] To-go Mai Tais and Pocky.

[00:41:41] Small business struggles during lockdown.

[00:44:19] The infamous Mai Tai.

[00:45:28] Drinking Mai Tais and mishaps.

[00:51:47] Unique restaurant business strategies.

[00:58:49] Playing at the same venue.

[01:02:10] Bluefin migration and breeding.

[01:04:47] Changing ocean currents and fish.

[01:07:13] Tattoo stories and experiences.

[01:11:35] Tattooing and fishing techniques.

[01:13:39] Luck and methodical fishing.

[01:16:38] Celebrating an epic perfect family.

Quotes:

"The vibe that it puts out is kick back, relax, sunshine, water, strong drinks, music."

"You have a bad day at work, you go to your tiki bar in your backyard and you take a vacation."

"And we're going to see some cool shit come from the ashes, you know."

"That single drink literally bridges generations and is part of the reason the Bali Hai is so successful."

"I mean, I traveled distant places in the world to catch that great a fish."

"San Diego wouldn't be, uh, I mean, it wouldn't be near what it was without that tuna industry."

Connect with Dave & Tommy: 

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

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

Bali Hai: https://www.balihairestaurant.com/

Tom Hams Lighthouse: https://www.tomhamslighthouse.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, our guest Matt Clemmer shares a personal story from 1995 when he was on the run facing a lengthy prison sentence while his father was an undercover DEA agent. He describes the intense situation of raids, being on the run, and questioning how long authorities would search for him. Matt reflects on a transformative moment he calls a "God encounter" that changed his path. 

Matt stresses the significance of patience in overcoming trials and tribulations, noting that it fosters personal growth and completeness. He explains that taking action and trusting the process can bring clarity and reveal the next steps. 

The conversation between Matt and Aaron underscores how patience and faith lead to personal growth, resilience, and the ability to overcome obstacles. They stress the significance of courageously facing difficult situations and trusting in the journey. 

Join Aaron and Matt as they share personal stories and moments of gratitude on this heartfelt episode.

Chat Breakdown:

[00:00:00] Life on the run

[00:04:22] Seeking spiritual and philosophical texts.

[00:10:00] A life-changing encounter.

[00:13:41] Facing consequences of illegal activities.

[00:16:20] Redemption and second chances.

[00:19:17] A powerful family reunion.

[00:22:09] Love and forgiveness.

[00:30:12] Overcoming challenges with patience.

[00:34:17] Faith and taking action.

[00:36:16] Embracing the unknown.

[00:48:23] Higher self and soul.

[00:53:12] True identity and self-discovery.

[00:55:55] The power of daily affirmations.

[00:57:33] Taking control of your life.

[01:00:23] Personal growth and adventure in life.

[01:09:43] The journey to apprenticeship.

[01:13:22] Evolution of tattoo industry.

[01:14:25] Building relationships through tattoo art.

Quotes:

"I experienced a God encounter on my path, almost like God showed up and slapped me."

"It's really easy to walk the walk in life when things aren't so rough, but what do people do when it's really gnarly? Like when the shit really fucking hits the fan."

"I would rather be with God than so-called free on the outside without him."

"Because of that pivot you were gonna lead this different life, which was gonna be of benefit to a lot of others. And it knew it so well that it just said, it did that"

"The way she looked at me? as if I was the greatest man in the world, and that I could maybe be president of the United States one day."

"Let our lives be our message versus us just saying one of my favorite quotes from C.S. Lewis, and it says, go out into all the world and preach the good news. And if you must, use words. I like that."

"We forgive you, and we hope that you can heal and have a beautiful life, regardless of what happened."

"Some of the greatest pains have been the greatest teachers and who it how it has developed me"

"You don't need faith till you fucking need it."

"We're all gonna fucking walk through these rings of fire. You can't get out of this game that we're in."

"And man, it is so fucking easy to get lost and forget what you really are and get caught up in the Who"

"Those days are gone and I'm happy to see him gone because it is a beautiful art form that involves someone trusting you with their body, their health, their vision, their dream."

Stay Connected:

Connect with Matt: 

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

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mattclemmer 

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

The journey to becoming a professional tattoo artist can be long and filled with challenges, often requiring a delicate balance between stable employment and the pursuit of a passion for tattooing.

This is exemplified in the story of Angel Bustos, who began his tattooing journey in 1994 at a young age, inspired by his older brother. Despite his early start, Angel faced numerous obstacles that shaped his path to becoming a respected tattoo artist who brings 30 years of experience to the conversation.

Angel unveils the inspiration behind his graffiti-infused lettering style and the episode kicks off with a discussion about the importance of security and stability in life decisions, particularly in the context of family responsibilities and the unpredictable nature of a career in tattooing.

Aaron shares his own journey, highlighting the challenges of balancing a stable income with the desire for creative freedom as an independent contractor. The episode is recorded live at the Golden State Tattoo Expo in Pasadena, California, where Aaron connects with fellow tattoo enthusiasts and artists, setting the stage for a rich exchange of stories and insights from the tattoo industry.

Tune in for a candid conversation filled with personal anecdotes and reflections on the wild ride of a tattoo artists journey.

Chat Breakdown:

00:05 - Balancing Security and Passion 02:26 - Angel Bustos' Tattoo Journey Begins 04:25 - Tattooing in Middle School 06:03 - Brother's Influence and Passing 10:12 - Tattooing as a Passion, Not Just Income 12:03 - Challenges of Quitting a Stable Job 15:15 - Opening a Private Studio 19:04 - Working with Family 20:33 - Economic Challenges and Tattooing 23:05 - Maintaining Quality and Standards 27:08 - Future of Tattooing and AI 33:28 - Respect for Lettering as Art 38:52 - Future of Lettering in Tattooing 39:02 - Respect from Other Tattoo Genres

Quotes:

• "Tattooing was, even still, it's not stable."

• "You just have to keep going to keep his name alive, essentially, right?"

• "There's no way I could ever have stopped."

• "I was in my own high, I was getting ready to take this another big step in my life and I wasn't really paying attention to the economy."

• 00:24:47 - "Fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck. I mean, I love this shit, man."

• "A con isn't going to drive you in life."

• "If you want to be a part of something that's wild and free, then you got to be okay with a little bit of chaos and a little bit of bullshit."

• "I know what we can create when we come together."

• Stay Connected:

  Connect with Angel: 

  IG: https://www.instagram.com/angelstat2

  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

   

Don Miguel Ruiz Jr  visits the Chats and Tatts  podcast for a conversation with Aaron Della Vedova.

The Four Agreements changed my life.  This episode is deeply personal and special to me.

Don Miguel Ruiz Jr. is a renowned spiritual teacher and an internationally bestselling author. He has spent his life guiding others to personal freedom through his profound insights regarding the mastery of self and generational teachings he learned via Toltec mythology. Don Miguel Ruiz Jr has been able to merge ancient wisdom with modern,  practical common-sense, forging a new philosophy for seekers of truth and personal authenticity.

Everyone is a Master!

Don Miguel shares a little of his personal history and the Toltec practice that was handed down to him through his family.  This episode goes way beyond the Four Agreements, including all the lessons on how to live, love and die like a spiritual master. 

We hope you enjoy this spiritually rich episode about Toltec wisdom, Toltec teachings, consciousnes, mastery of self and mastery of love with Don Miguel Ruiz Jr. 

What we chat about in this episode:

0:24 - Guest intro

4:46 - Understanding Toltecs’ family history, culture, traditions, and civilization

17:14 - The Four Agreements: A Practical Guide to Personal Freedom (A Toltec Wisdom book by Don Miguel Ruiz)

23:27 - How to make a positive in the world

28:36 - The REAL truth about assumptions

32:58 - The importance of forgiveness

49:05 - How to overcome fear and anxiety

52:31 - Why self-love is the best form of healing

53:49 - Tips for investing your beliefs

1:04:11 - Don Miguel reveals the stories behind his tattoos

1:22:09 - Don Miguel gets a new tattoo!

1:26:06 - Inspiring ways to change with love and respect

Quotes: 

“... the more you practice, that confidence turns into trust.” - Don Miguel Ruiz Jr.

“In our family of faith is believing in something 100% as opposed to blind faith. Faith enough for us is knowing I can do this 100% without a doubt.” - Don Miguel Ruiz Jr.

“My grandmother Sadita taught us that the secret to faith healing is currently very small is the placebo effect.” - Don Miguel Ruiz Jr.

“When I say I'm a Toltec, I'm a creator of that work of art. That is my life. And I'm the one using knowledge as an instrument to inform my choice, but I'm the one making the choice.” - Don Miguel Ruiz Jr.

“When you love yourself when it's real. When you really love yourself, well, then you're authentic.” - Aaron Della Vedova

“To be impeccable with the word is to use your word, to heal yourself, to love yourself, to allow yourself to see the truth.”  - Don Miguel Ruiz Jr.

Useful Resources:

• Get a copy of the book The Four Agreements: A Practical Guide to Personal Freedom (A Toltec Wisdom) by Don Miguel Ruiz

Get in touch:

• Follow Don Miguel on miguelruizjr.com; Facebook; Instagram; Twitter
• Connect with Aaron: 
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chatsandtatts/
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/AaronVedova
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aaron.dellavedova/
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@chatsandtatts/featured

SUMMARY 

Aaron Della Vedova is hosting a special guest on his Chats and Tats podcast - Tanner Wayne, a musician and drummer. Aaron admires Tanner's skill and has always wanted to learn how to play drums himself. Aaron and Tanner discuss how Tanner came to be a professional drummer and the respect and admiration they have for the art form. 

In this conversation, the speaker talks about becoming a professional drummer. He grew up in a musical family, with his dad playing the drums, bass, guitar and singing. At the age of 9, he jumped on the drum set and his dad said he had it. He is currently in three bands, the biggest of which being In Flames, and the other two being Hollows and Night Themes. He talks about how most professional musicians don't become successful by accident, and that growing up in a musical environment was a major factor in his own success.

The narrator recounts a moment in his life when his uncle, whom he looked up to, told him he was an artist after seeing a drawing he had done. This moment was significant for the narrator, as it was the first time someone had told him he was an artist. He also mentions how his father encouraged him to pursue music as a child, buying him a drum set and lessons which led him to where he is today. 

Tanner recalled how his parents had been instrumental in helping him pursue his drumming career from a young age, even though he couldn't afford a drum set or lessons. He also shared his advice to parents of aspiring musicians, encouraging them to support their children and buy them quality instruments. Additionally, the speaker discussed how the local band Blink 182 had been an inspiration for him, living in the same area and being a successful band. Finally, he emphasized how support and inspiration are key for children wanting to pursue a career in music and how it can be difficult in rural areas.

What we chat about:

[0:00:40]  Guest intro 

[0:02:27]  How I became a drummer

[0:03:16]  The biggest influences in Tanners Life

[0:06:35]   Battle of the bands

[0:07:56]   Music influences 

[0:10:08]   Tour life: In Flames

[0:14:26]   How technology impacted ticket and album sales

[0:18:21]  Own all your shit

[0:27:09]   Give it everything you've got

[0:29:28]  Coping with tendonitis

[0:31:12]  Stem Cell Therapy

[0:47:22]  Mental Health Awareness

[0:48:41]  A new spiritual path

[0:55:41]  People need to relate

[0:58:32]  Staying humble

[0:59:53]  Tanners tattoo

Get in touch:

Connect with Tanner:

In Flames: https://www.inflames.com/

New Album: https://shopinflames.com/collections/media

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tannerwayne/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/tannerWayne

The Hollows: https://www.thehollowband.com/

Connect with Aaron: 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chatsandtatts/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/AaronVedova

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aaron.dellavedova/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@chatsandtatts/featured

Want more musician chat? Check out this episode with Simple Plan frontman Pierre Bouvier: https://youtu.be/MMmd_-cXwQI

Have you seen our shorts playlist? Here is the link!  https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLQ2jD67sz5-L0lYIVqkqqEgEgWyiMQLc2

Thank you for watching Mental Health and Meditation ft. In Flames Drummer Tanner Wayne.   

#TannerWayne #mentalhealth #inflames #meditation #art #tattoo #tattooartist #chatsandtatts #aarondellvedova

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

When Prescriptions Become Subscriptions 

Explore Health Changes Through Plant-Based Nutrition with Kaska Korvar.

SUMMARY 

Aaron Delavadova, the host of Chats and Tats, interviews Kashka, a mother, wife, plant nutritionist, and health advisor.This  episode dives into the importance of growth and change, both in business and in life, and of course nutrition. Kaska is passionate about the environmental footprint of mass consumption and shares her thoughts on how 60 billion animals are killed every year.

The conversation centers around the implications of regenerative farming, the recommendation of consuming only 4oz of animal protein a week, and the health implications of eating a standard American diet. 

TIMESTAMPS 

0:02:42   Benefits of Growth and Change in Business and Life

0:05:50   Exploring the Debate Around Meat Consumption

0:10:20   Regenerative Farming

0:16:23   Protein Sources for Vegan Athletes

0:18:25   Blood Pressure and Cholesterol Guidelines

0:20:00   Passionate Learning in Health and Medicine

0:23:01  Cholesterol Levels and Healthy Eating Habits

0:24:28   Eating a Plant-Based Diet for Health and the Environment

0:27:54   The Benefits of Eating More Plant-Based Foods

0:29:43  Exploring Meaning Behind Kaska’s Tattoos

0:31:37  The Silver Fox Tattoo"

0:36:47   Pain Tolerance During Tattooing 

0:39:38   Open-Mindedness: A Conversation on Nutrition

Quotes:

It seems rare to see, especially a woman being like, yeah, man, I'm 40, I have gray hair, I'm a silver fox. Instead of, oh, my God, down to the hairdresser. Get rid of it, God damn it. I cannot age. 

So most of my tattoos revolve either around family or revolve around how I would like just speaking up for the world. 

Connect with Aaron: 

Website: http://www.chatsandtatts.com

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

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

Guru Tattoo IG: http://www.instagram.com/gurutattoo

Host Aaron Della Vedova welcomes back guest Miguel Ruiz Jr. after their previous popular episode. Reflecting on the past year, Aaron shares his surprise and delight in discovering that their audience resonated most with their conversations on philosophy and spirituality. As a seeker himself, Aaron expresses his interest in exploring these topics further on the show. He introduces Miguel, the son of renowned author Don Miguel Ruiz, who wrote the influential book "The Four Agreements." Aaron credits this book with having a profound and life-changing impact on him. Together, Aaron and Miguel delve into spiritual wisdom and discuss its transformative power in shaping one's perspective on life.

Join Aaron and Miguel as they delve into deep conversations about life-changing events and the power of spiritual teachings.

Chat Timeline:

[00:01:06] Philosophy and spirituality.

[00:04:05-00:04:15] Tattoo art and extreme experimentation.

[00:10:15-00:10:26] Teotihuacan's mysterious abandonment.

[00:11:36] Layers of Teotihuacan architecture.

[00:15:52] Journey to recover our divinity.

[00:19:23] The Smoky Mirror.

[00:25:03] Pyramids and ancient civilizations.

[00:27:40] The implications of AI.

[00:33:22] Shifting industrial revolution and AI.

[00:34:50] Shifting planets and AI survival.

[00:39:02] Creating something that feeds the soul.

[00:43:03] The younger generation's reinvention.

[00:46:19] The meaning of gender roles.

[00:51:28] Conditioning and Domestication.

[00:53:42] Hallucinogenic plant medicines.

[00:57:11] Questioning the source of opinions.

[01:02:08] Controlled folly and conditioning.

[01:04:34] Hearing the voice of God.

[01:09:27] Detaching from conditioned beliefs.

[01:12:14] Living a whole life.

[01:16:46] Pink and Blue Gender Stereotypes.

[01:21:08] The retreat in Teotihuacan.

[01:24:27] Short man's attitude.

[01:29:02] AI as threat or savior.

[01:34:15] The impact of Gutenberg's press.

[01:36:21] Full circle moment in history.

Quotes:

"It seems like where at least my bubble of the universe is the universe where people want to learn and grow and deepen their awareness of life and with practice perhaps become a master of their life, of their parts as you would say."

"There was a message. It was without words. Its physical existence was a message from the Toltecs to us."

"I'm not the person I thought I was. I am one of the stars. I am life."

"The truth exists whether you believe in it or not."

"Everyone's projecting and your temptation will be to believe it."

"Hell is when you don't understand that the agreements in your mind are simply agreements and they aren't the truth."

"It's the voice of truth, it's what comes through you when you're quiet and clear of attachment and just open."

Stay Connected:

• Get a copy of the book ⁠The Four Agreements: A Practical Guide to Personal Freedom (A Toltec Wisdom) by Don Miguel Ruiz⁠

• Follow Don Miguel on ⁠miguelruizjr.com⁠; ⁠Facebook⁠; ⁠Instagram⁠; ⁠Twitter⁠

• Connect with Aaron: 

• Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/chatsandtatts/⁠

• Twitter: ⁠https://twitter.com/AaronVedova⁠

• Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/aaron.dellavedova/⁠

• YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@chatsandtatts/featured⁠

The evolution of tattooing has been characterized by significant changes in techniques, styles, and the overall perception of the craft. Host Aaron Della Vedova sits down with 'the crazy Germans' Marcus Giuliano Stolz and Philip Trier to share their unique journeys into tattooing, emphasizing the importance of traditional apprenticeship methods in skill development and fostering respect within the industry.

Aaron and his guests dive into the ever-evolving landscape of technology and art, discussing the rapid pace of innovation and its implications for the future. Aaron emphasizes the importance of understanding global perspectives, particularly in the tattooing community, and expresses excitement about exploring tattoo culture from different parts of the world, specifically Germany. 

Tune in for an insightful conversation that bridges art, technology, and cultural exchange!

Chat Breakdown:

00:01:44 - Exploring Tattooing in Germany

00:03:19 - Marcus' Tattoo Journey

00:11:14 - The Importance of Humility in Tattooing

00:13:07 - Philip's Path to Tattooing

00:16:26 - Self-Taught Tattooing

00:19:01 - Transitioning to Full-Time Tattooing

00:21:38 - Work Ethic in Tattooing

00:24:02 - The Spiritual Journey of Tattooing

00:27:03 - Balancing Perfectionism and Acceptance

00:29:01 - The Reality of a Tattoo Artist's Life

00:36:10 - Authenticity in the Tattoo Industry

00:41:40 - The Importance of Client Respect

00:42:31 - Experimenting with Anesthesia Tattoos

00:46:19 Social Media's Impact on Tattooing

01:04:58 Value of Handmade Art

01:10:00 Future of Cyber Warfare

01:17:48 Ink Regulations in Europe

01:24:59 Colorful Tattoos in Germany

01:29:11 Giving Back to the Tattoo Industry

1:30:45 The Impact of Mindfulness

Quotes:

"Making needles was its own art form."

"We're lucky to have touched that era of tattooing."

 "In Germany, it's like, when you say I want to be an artist, everybody's shaking their head and that you got to do something serious."

"Every minute of tattooing I did in my life is just worth it."

"The ones that will succeed in tattooing are the ones that have the talent, the work ethic."

"Instagram can't save your ass."

 "I've always had the opinion that I'm here to be of service, right? I'm not here to decide what your journey is like."

"The cat is out of the bag, you cannot put it back in, so you have now cards with which you have to play, you know, that's it."

Stay Connected:

Connect. with Philipp:

https://www.instagram.com/loccomotivetattoos

Connect with Marcus:

https://www.instagram.com/marcus_giuliano_stolz_tattoo

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 today's society, self-expression and individuality are essential for personal fulfillment and identity. This podcast episode highlights the significance of allowing people to express themselves freely, particularly through their appearance, such as hairstyles and tattoos. Host Aaron Della Vedova and celebrity hairstylist Philip Wolff and artist discuss how the judgmental attitudes of others can stifle this vital aspect of human nature.

The episode emphasizes the importance of allowing individuals to live their lives authentically, advocating for the principle of not harming others as the only rule to follow. Aaron reflects on his 30 years of tattooing, highlighting the invaluable relationships he has built along the way, which contribute to a fulfilling life beyond mere financial success.

Tune in for an insightful discussion on acceptance, personal growth, and the beauty of individuality, and wittness the final touches Aaron tattoos for Philip on a multi session back andd neck piece. 

Chat Breakdown:

[00:00:42] Judging personal choices and freedom.

[00:06:06] Creative growth in career.

[00:10:55] Learning and evolving in LA.

[00:15:21] Consistency leads to success.

[00:20:57] Viral content and audience engagement.

[00:25:33] Attention span and creativity concerns.

[00:30:11] Obsession with image and beauty.

[00:34:04] Human expression through body art.

[00:39:39] Tolerance and Acceptance in Society.

[00:42:13] Dismantling stereotypes through tattoos.

[00:47:09] Family and date night importance.

[01:00:52] Financial education and personal growth.

[01:03:15] Asking questions for personal growth.

[01:06:42] Tattooing and aging experience.

[01:10:21] Gratitude for tattoo enthusiasts.

Quotes:

"The only rule is don't hurt others. That's the only rule."

"You have to constantly learn. But then at a certain point, you have to give back, you have to share what you've learned, because we got to keep the next generation going."

"You've got to be making content that's extremely new and different and interactive. Or a lot of it just pay to play."

"Do you have actual followers or do you just have viewers that just want to see?"

"If I can do something that makes someone's life more fulfilled, then fuck, I'm stoked."

"We're all curating how we look to the world, even in the smallest of ways or very extreme ways with piercings and tattoos."

"I just wanted to contribute towards the dismantling of this backwards philosophy that we all should fall in line into a certain, you know, living a certain way."

"If it's got a fucking label on it, don't eat it. It's that fucking simple."

Stay Connected:

Connect with Philip: 

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

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

• Follow Michelle on:
• Get a copy of her book, Nine days: https://ninedaysbook.com/
• Website: www.VERBMediaGroup.com
• Instagram: @_Michellerenee_

• Connect with Aaron: 

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chatsandtatts/

• Twitter: https://twitter.com/AaronVedova

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aaron.dellavedova/

• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@chatsandtatts/featured

Join us on Chats and Tatts with host Aaron Della Vedova as we delve into the world of contemporary artist Greg Craola Simkins. Known for his vibrant and imaginative pop-surrealist paintings, Craola takes us on a journey through his creative process, influences, and inspirations. From his early beginnings to his current success, Craola shares insights into his unique style and approach to art, as well as his thoughts on the art world, how AI is influencing art and the creative process and how he balances his craft and family.

Get ready for a colorful and inspiring conversation with one of the most exciting artists of our time

In every piece of art, there’s a story to tell!

Craola was born in 1975 in Torrance California and grew up with a menagerie of animals like rabbits which are often seen in his paintings. He started to draw at the age of three with various inspirations from books and cartoons. Then at the age of 18, he did graffiti art which became his impetus for in-depth art creations and drove him to paint larger works. The color perspective theories developed more of his artistic skills, then later on transitioned to acrylics.

Through his passion and perseverance, he completed his Bachelor’s Degree in Studio Art from California State University in 1999. Craola worked as an illustrator for various clothing companies and brands. Then moved to video games like Tony Hawk 2X, Spiderman 2, and Ultimate Spiderman. And Craola still painted in his free time. 

Then in 2005, he decided to be a full-time artist in painting. That was the start that his artworks being featured in group exhibitions to successfully having his own sold-out exhibitions. The demand immensely grew and his popularity spread out.

Today, Craola’s art masterpieces continue to leverage all throughout the USA. But his success wouldn’t be possible without his partner, wife, and loving mother to his kids, which serve as my brain and support system all the time.

But in the era of digital technology where artificial intelligence (AI) is a threat to every artist in the world, can art still survive? If you want to find the answer to this, get it straight from Aaron and Greg in this week’s episode!

What we chat about in this episode:

0:28 - Guest intro

2:11 - Craola’s journey of living what he loves to do: the art of painting

11:42 - How to turn your artistic passion into a profitable stream of income

13:49 - Reasons why artists need a support system

16:57 - Find out how Craola landed his first job as an artist!

19:22 - Greg’s FIRST BREAKTHROUGH in the art industry

23:53 - How Craola started selling his paintings

29:13 - Greg’s run in doing art shows and art gallery

30:51 - How to overcome and achieve your goals

32:39 - How Craola spends his days

34:53 - How much are Greg’s paintings

37:44 - The average time to complete a painting

41:56 - Craola’s advice for aspiring painters

44:37 - What is the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on art

50:52 - How to handle the future of art in AI

52:10 - What’s next for Greg ‘Craola’ Simkins

54:34 - Craola reveals the reason behind his tattoos

59:59 - Craola gets a new tattoo!

Quotes: 

“... a story a lot of successful artists have, and I'm not here to knock on art school, but you hear it a lot. You hear a lot of artists be like, it didn't help them. I guess a lot of people say that or it even pigeonholes you or puts you doing it in a way that you would have naturally not gone that direction, but the school is teaching you the right and wrong rules. And then you follow them which ends up kind of, you know, holding back your six walls around you. Yeah, you gotta be able to break through some of the rules are good.” - Greg Simkins

“We love people that have those skills that we know we don't have and right when you see it, you're just like that it's admirable.” - Aaron Della Vedova

“You raise your prices as you sell up.” - Greg Simkins

“Keep drawing and keep painting.” - Greg Simkins

Get in touch:

• Follow Greg on:

• Check out Craola’s artwork online shop: https://shop.gregsimkinsart.com/

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/craola/

• Twitter: https://twitter.com/CRAOLA

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GregCraolaSimkins/

• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCl7dwsfG_8_cYwJNBQKSsfw

• Website: https://gregsimkinsart.com/

• Connect with Aaron: 

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chatsandtatts/

• Twitter: https://twitter.com/AaronVedova

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aaron.dellavedova/

• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@chatsandtatts/featured

In this episode of Chats and Tatts, host Aaron.  Della Vedova welcomes a metaphysical guest known as the corporate shaman, Kirk Westwood.

Out of a life-threatening illness diagnosis came a quest for wisdom and healing.  Kirk's journey around the world studying extreme practices and rituals led him toward an understanding and awareness of creating luck. 

The conversation explores the concept of forgiveness and its connection to self-love and awareness. They discuss the idea that holding onto resentment can attract similar negative experiences, emphasizing the importance of letting go and not allowing past actions to affect one's future. The episode delves into deeper subjects beyond art and tattoos, letting go of the past and focusing on personal growth, catering to the audience's interest in metaphysical topics.

Chat Breakdown:

[00:00:00] Forgiveness and self-love.

[00:04:09] Mastering the luck bubble.

[00:07:44] The luck bubble.

[00:10:12] Out-of-body experiences.

[00:17:15] Emotional climate in Southern California.

[00:21:47] America's national security concerns.

[00:26:03] PTSD and psychedelic-assisted therapy.

[00:37:43] Developing intuition and purpose.

[00:42:46] Coming of age wilderness journey.

[00:47:00] Serving the highest good.

[00:49:15] Teaching intuition and asking questions.

[00:56:38] The importance of making each moment count.

[01:03:49] The simplicity of intuition.

[01:06:38] The hero's journey.

[01:09:17] Self-love and the hero's journey.

[01:13:47] Forgiveness and self-perception.

[01:17:03] Betrayal and childhood memories.

[01:19:02] Forgiveness and self-love.

[01:23:41] Violence and its origins.

[01:26:39] The art of marshaling energy.

[01:31:13] Science supporting mysticism.

[01:33:03] Keynote addresses and 21-day challenge.

[01:36:58] Names and intuition.

[01:39:21] Shitty folks and their impact.

Quotes:

"It's not even an act. It's just you getting so clear with the idea that it doesn't matter what that person did."

"When you know what it is you're dedicated to proving about yourself and then you come to be with what you're trying to get away from, that will set you free."

"That's my job is to say to people, this is how you're creating a reality."

"I want to bring them to the dark night of their soul, where they see that everything that fucked up in their life was their fault."

"So if you really want to change the world, stop giving to charity."

"Just feel it in your body. Become feeling machines rather than thinking machines."

"If you just shut the fuck up and be with what is."

"I don't know what just happened, but life can never be the same ever again."

"If you think in terms of energy and vibration, which is everything, simply time spent in that vibration of that which you love to create will create more of that."

"Meaning of life, know thyself, and it will set you free."

"My skin is crawling right now with the shame."

"I choose the end result of loving how I am in the world."

"Just burn it all fucking down."

"The greatest warriors throughout history are the ones who never had to fight."

Stay Connected:

Connect with Kirk:

IG: instagram.com/theluckbubble

Website: https://go.theluckbubble.com/about?r_done=1

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

#intuition #lucknow #spirituality

Finding Purpose and Paying It Forward: A Journey of Recovery

In this episode of Chats and Tatts, host Aaron Della Vadova explores the theme of recovery with guest Michael Molthan. After 27 arrests, Michael had lost everything except his life to drugs,  alcohol, and the bad decisions that accompany addiction.  When he picked up a book in prison and began reading to his cellmate who could not read, something shifted.  He tapped into the transformative power of serving others.  

They discuss how life can be challenging and how some individuals face difficult situations that knock them down. Whether it's addiction or simply the struggles of life, Aaron believes that everyone goes through some form of recovery. He highlights the importance of getting back up after being knocked down and shares stories of those who have found strength and resilience in their journey to recovery. Tune in to this powerful episode that delves into the personal and universal experience of overcoming obstacles and finding a way forward.

Chat Details:

[00:00:00] Addiction as a source.

[00:03:40] Abuse and addiction journey.

[00:08:45] Biblical upbringing and confusion.

[00:11:37] Adopting and doing them wrong.

[00:14:05] Reputation on the PGA tour.

[00:19:37] Awakening and serving others.

[00:20:14] The power of reading.

[00:25:18] The meaning of "M2 The Rock".

[00:29:26] The power of God or the universe.

[00:31:33] Showing faith through actions.

[00:35:07] The need for practical spirituality.

[00:37:00] The missing man.

[00:41:24] Addiction as a spiritual stronghold.

[00:43:41] The human is built of four sides.

[00:47:05] Forgiveness and blessings.

[00:50:26] Forgiveness and letting go.

[00:52:33] Resentment and forgiveness.

[00:57:16] Finding faith and communication.

[01:00:20] The fairness of life's opportunities.

[01:03:07] The fairness of salvation.

[01:08:37] Sin and homosexuality discussion.

[01:10:14] How God created things.

[01:12:34] Religious trauma and living by rules.

[01:17:46] Anxiety and serving others.

[01:18:43] Acts of kindness and selflessness.

Quotes: 

 "So as I was drinking alcohol and doing drugs, it gave me that sense of ease and comfort, and it put me in this false reality of being in the now or the future, that noise shut down, the past, that noise shut down."

"As long as we're in that blame state, recovery is impossible."

"I finally realized that the rock at the bottom in all these times was God."

 "You guys are all here talking about all these nice things. But then I saw you last night, shit face drunk, telling your wife to fuck off."

"Look, I've realized that my way I've been treating you guys, the way I've been has been wrong, and I will never treat you guys that way again."

"The role that he plays in it is the same as mine. We choose to hold on to the resentment."

"You know, it's funny, the more smart we think we're becoming in the world, the easier translations God puts on the bookshelves."

"But text three people and say, Hey, I was just thinking about you have a good day and expect nothing in return."

Stay Connected:

Connect with Michael: 

Website: https://m2therock.com/

IG: https://www.instagram.com/michaelmolthanm2/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/m2socialmedia

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

Luke Wessman's journey into tattooing began with a traditional apprenticeship, where he learned the ropes of the trade by sweeping, mopping, cleaning windows, and running errands. On this episode of Chats and Tatts, host Aaron Della Vedova introduces this distinguished tattoo artist with a traditional aesthetic rooted in his hippie Tennessee upbringing and Southern California influences. Luke's impressive career includes appearances on TV shows like New York Ink and Ink Master, as well as being featured in Forbes magazine. The conversation delves into Luke's background, his ambassadorship for Monster Energy Drink, and his creation of the Lost Art of the Gentleman.

The episode highlights the connections between the host and guest, who share mutual friends and close proximity in their neighborhoods. Luke's journey serves as a testament to the value of hard work, respect for clients, and flexibility in embracing new developments in tattoo artistry.

Join in as Luke, with a cigar and scotch in hand, shares his journey as a tattoo artist and his passion for spreading love for tattooing around the world.

Chat Breakdown:

[00:03:48] Tattooing for 32 years.

[00:07:09] Hippie commune in Tennessee.

[00:13:18] Tattooing as a form of armor.

[00:16:29] Transition into tattooing career.

[00:21:13] Identity in creative professions.

[[00:28:33] Making a living as an artist.

[00:35:12] Meeting tattoo legend Horiyoshi.

[00:40:14] Horiyoshi's unique tattooing approach.

[00:42:21] Tattooing Marlee Matlin from L Word.

[00:48:11] Tattooing as a therapeutic experience.

[00:58:20] The lost art of the gentleman.

[01:02:44] Promoting chivalry and respect.

[01:05:38] Embracing traditional values in masculinity.

[01:08:40] Cancel culture and forgiveness.

[01:13:18] Judging by character, not race.

[01:16:34] Providing livelihood to community.

[01:29:36] Tattooing and back pain.

[01:42:42] Long-term career planning.

[01:45:00] Building authentic partnerships with companies.

[01:48:00] Discovering peace and joy in golf.

[01:50:25] Taking risks for success.

Quotes:

"There's a saying in Hawaiian proverb, there's two ways to be rich, work more, want less, right?"

"You're living with me and my mom on bunk beds, dude, you're good."

"Getting tattooed for armor."

"I personally was really worried about survival. I was on my own. I was living with my friends and my friend's parents. It wasn't about like, Oh, I love art. I'm going to be a tattooer. I need to fucking make sure I can survive."

"I got in Miami and we were charging $300 for a name tattoo. And I was like, holy shit."

"If I don't stop sucking this tit, I'm going to be attached to it forever."

"Look, man, I don't want to look in the mirror and see the person that did all those things. I want to see somebody else."

"There's a saying I like, and it's instead of bashing what you hate, promote what you love, right?"

"All I can be is myself. That's the most unique thing I have is myself."

"I think it's incredible to be able to employ people and give them livelihood. That is just like, that's an ultimate, man. I think it's beautiful."

"If you can pull it off and it makes you happy, fucking go do it."

Connect with Luke: 

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

Website: https://lukewessman.myshopify.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 the realms of tattooing and art, the environment in which an artist operates is pivotal to their development and growth. As discussed in the podcast episode, surrounding oneself with skilled artists can significantly enhance one’s ability to absorb knowledge and overcome subconscious limitations.

In this episode of 'Chats and Tatts,' host Aaron Della Vedova sits down with a talented tattoo artist 'Cheeseburger' known for his impressive color realism and surrealism work, infused with elements of anime. Aaron, after discovering Cheese's artistry, left him amazed by the hard work and skill displayed in the tattoos. The discussion delves into the artist's journey, balancing family life with his craft while working at Pacific Soul Tattoo in Honolulu, Hawaii. Aaron shares insights on how exposure to talented peers can break down subconscious limitations in art, inspiring creativity and growth.

Tune in for an engaging conversation filled with artistic passion and the realities of being a family man in the tattoo industry.

Chat Breakdown:

00:00:32 - Absorbing Tattoo Knowledge

00:03:29 - Influence of Hawaiian Tattoo Culture

00:04:20 - Challenges of Color Realism on Dark Skin

00:05:10 - Evolution of Cheese's Tattoo Style

00:06:01 - Learning from Nikko Hurtado 

00:08:10 - Hard Work vs. Talent in Tattooing

00:09:08 - The Physical and Mental Demands of Tattooing

00:11:02 - The Intimacy of Tattooing

00:12:48 - Energy Exchange in Tattooing

00:14:08 - Balancing Health, Family, and Work

00:19:00 - The Role of Social Media in Tattooing

00:19:52 - Passion and Challenges in Tattooing

00:20:07 - Economic Impact on Tattoo Industry

00:21:18 - Adapting to Changes in the Tattoo Industry

00:23:36 - Fears and Motivations for Tattoo Artists

Quotes:

"You realize they're human, they're not gods, they're not magicians, they're just regular people like you, and somehow he's doing that, or she's doing that, so it just, without even knowing it, it clicks into your mind that, then I can do that."

"The intimacy, I think right off the bat, the first thing that comes to my mind is the intimacy because you're sharing this. It's a whole experience."

"Tattoo clients that collect at a larger level. They're really artsy people. They really are."

"My family, that's what drives me first."

"I love tattooing. I know it can kill me at the end. I still love doing it."

"Tattooing is my passion and my poison."

Stay Connected:

Connect with Cheeseburger: 

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

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 with Aaron Della Vedova, the host shares his passion for esoteric books, plant medicines, meditation, and yoga. He reflects on how these practices have shaped his life and introduces a special guest,  George Boyd. George A. Boyd is a meditation teacher, counselor, poet, and author who has studied and practiced meditation since 1965.

He is a master meditation teacher and an innovator in the field of meditation. He developed a system of Integral meditation in 1983 that he has taught to groups and individuals since that time.

He is the founder of the Mudrashram® Institute of Spiritual Studies and the editor and publisher of Mudrashram® Publishing.

George holds a BA in Psychology from UCLA, an MA in Clinical Psychology from California State University, Dominguez Hills, and an Alcohol Drug Counseling Certificate from UCLA Extension.

The episode delves into spiritual exploration and is highly recommended for those interested in diving into the realms of consciousness and self-discovery.

Chat breakdown:

[00:00:47] Fully realized state activities.

[00:04:10] A troubled family background.

[00:11:36] Self-Realization Fellowship discovery.

[00:17:23] Witch doctors in Western society.

[00:20:11] Satguru has come.

[00:23:03] Testing spiritual knowledge.

[00:27:35] Neglecting the personality.

[00:32:01] Path to full enlightenment.

[00:36:11] Being of service and fulfillment.

[00:40:28] The Law of Attraction.

[00:43:14] Psychic realm and beings of light.

[00:47:43] The etheric veil.

[00:50:51] Neophyte experiences and consciousness.

[00:55:30] Soul reading on my producer.

[01:00:37] Soul's work and personality.

[01:06:36] Higher octaves and soul identity.

[01:10:03] The Soul's Role in Life Circumstances.

[01:15:06] The Akashic Records.

[01:18:00] Tattoo as a layer of remembrance.

Quotes:

"Three lifetimes ago, I was actually one of his disciples in Benaras, India."

"We are the witch doctors of Western society."

"Everything that I've thought about as being the highest thing, the greatest thing, the greatest goal, that's nothing. It's like a tiny little outpost on this great infinite adventure."

"You can create heaven. You can create hell. Which do you choose?"

"But for many people, using a psychedelic drug essentially blows them out of this bubble of the conscious mind."

"So some people may bring in a beautiful piece of spiritual art to remind them of their spiritual path."

"We could use a lot more kindness. We could use a lot more compassion and empathy and collaboration and cooperation."

Stay Connected:

Connect with George:

Website:  http://www.mudrashram.com

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

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 introduces a talented tattoo artist, Patrick Sweeney, known for his unique and progressive neo-traditional,  sometimes psychedelic style. The artist's work is described as beautifully warped and full of interesting uses of color, easily recognizable, and highly respected in the industry. The episode also includes a humorous anecdote about a tattooed ankle🍆. Tune in to hear more about the artist's journey and creative process.

The Chat breakdown:

[00:00:10] Tattoo mishap.

[00:04:02] Driving as meditation.

[00:08:03] Raising kids in this generation.

[00:09:43] Video games and eye-hand coordination.

[00:14:31] Finding true happiness in hockey.

[00:17:01] Enjoying creative expression.

[00:20:12] Tattooing experiences.

[00:23:14] Becoming a tattoo artist.

[00:26:25] Tattooing as a career.

[00:30:11] Genuine expression in tattooing.

[00:33:05] Long-lasting emotional impact.

[00:37:18] Composition in tattooing.

[00:40:19] Absorbing different tattoo styles.

[00:45:13] Drawing inspiration from nature.

[00:47:00] Surrealism in art and life.

[00:51:07] Classical tattooing aesthetics.

[00:55:49] Large-scale tattooing techniques.

[00:57:36] Using squared-off photos for tattoo stencils.

[01:02:01] Marriage and work balance.

[01:05:07] A joke tattoo.

[01:11:23] Life on the road.

Quotes:

"We can make pottery way better than like the average kids that like do really well in math class, but we can man we can make a bong real easy." - Patrick

"I could just trace fucking Sailor Jerry tattoo flash all day and like this is my job." -Patrick

"End of the day, if you're not having fun and being very genuine with what you're making, it's gonna fall flat." -Patrick

"Have fun with whatever you're making, you know, and be kind to the people that are paying you" -Patrick

"That's why we all started doing it. It's what made us smile in the beginning and yeah, I guess we've been kind of dancing around the new world of tattooing with social media's involvement and how it's changed that." -Aaron

"To get cool art onto someone's skin, there's a little few more things you've got to figure out than just how to draw something cool." -Aaron

"if you don't have any understanding for what makes classical tattooing look the way it does, then you're going to keep drawing gelatinous, shiny splashing water that doesn't actually look like water. It just looks like weird goop." - Patrick

"You don't need to show these poor people who know nothing about your industry that you have a dick tattooed on your ankle." -Aaron

Connect with Partick: 

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

Book a session: https://www.gurutattoo.com/patrick-sweeney

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

“I’m sorry, I can’t be perfect.” ~ If you’re a 90’s baby, you definitely know this song's lyrics!

In today’s episode of ‘Chats & Tatts’ Podcast by Aaron Della Vedova, I am joined by Pierre Bouvier, the lead vocalist, frontman, and songwriter of the rock band, Simple Plan. In this episode we talk about tattoos. (of course), friendship, the changing music industry, getting his first record deal and how social media is changing the game.  

Simple Plan started in 1999 as a Canadian rock band from Quebec. The band consists of Pierre Bouvier, lead vocals and studio bass guitar, together with Chuck Comeau as the drummer, Jeff Stinco as the lead guitar, and Sebastian Lefebvre as the rhythm guitar and backing vocals.

From the band’s new millennium rise to MTV superstardom through a pop-punk modern resurgence, Simple Plan has a record of 10 million albums sold worldwide, record awards, 3.4 million videos online, and 23 years in the music industry.

Today, Pierre takes a look back and reflects on the band’s journey of success. From being just a high schooler with the heart to write music who started a band with his friends to now, one of the most successful artists in the music industry.

As it’s harder than it looks, find out how Pierre and his band, Simple Plan continue to share music with people with their 2023 lineup world tour! Also, get to know how Aaron and Pierre knew each other for a very long time as they share their tattoo, snow mobile and other experiences together. All this and more when you listen to this week’s episode.

What we chat about:

0:28 - Guest intro

3:05 - How to overcome imposter syndrome

11:36 - Pierre Bouvier, Simple Plan’s frontman reflects on the band’s journey

19:01 - Simple Plan: The beginning of the band

25:17 - Where did the band name come from

27:13 - Simple Plan’s 23 years in the music industry

28:20 - How Pierre is living his life before and after the band’s success

34:21 - Tips for keeping your singing voice healthy

41:07 - How can energy change

44:08 - Who writes Simple Plan’s songs

49:58 - The future of the music industry 

57:13 - Reasons why you should care about your craft

1:00:12 - What is Pierre’s advice to his younger self

1:02:48 - Pierre reveals his first tattoo experience with Aaron

Quotations: 

“I wanna get a band. I wanna write music. I want people to hear it.” - Pierre Bouvier

“Tattooing at first is about being very caring, pathetic, compassionate to the person.” - Aaron Della Vedova

“The future of the music industry? I feel like it's just inevitable… it’s always changing and now we’re here. There are ways to capitalize on it, make it your own, and take advantage of the tools but it worked…. You just have to do everything. Push in every direction.” -  Pierre Bouvier

“In social media, you need to be authentic.” - Aaron Della Vedova

Useful Resources:

• Listen to Simple Plan’s music on Spotify

Get in touch:

• Follow Pierre on simpleplan.com, Cameo, Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter
• Connect with Aaron: 
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chatsandtatts/
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/AaronVedova
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aaron.dellavedova/
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@chatsandtatts/featured

Entrepreneurship: Solving Problems and Finding Success

In this episode of Chats and Tatts, host Aaron Della Vedova speaks to a serial entrepreneur and founder of Ever Bowl, Jeff Fenster.  They quickly discuss the mindset needed to succeed in business and how problem-solving is the key to success in business and life. He emphasizes how everyone, from parents to employees, is an entrepreneur at heart and that the key to success is being able to solve problems effectively. They also discuss how many of Aaron's clients and friends are entrepreneurs, and how the COVID-19 pandemic has led many people to become entrepreneurs and find their own voice. The episode is full of good advice for entrepreneurs and those looking to start their own businesses, plus a deep dive into the state of our world with AI, robotics, and the possibility of a dystopia. You are going to want to listen to the end!

[00:00:00] Entrepreneurial Mindset.

[00:06:45] Creative problem-solving.

[00:08:22] Identifying the problem.

[00:13:02] Success is formulaic.

[00:16:37] Building Relationships for Success.

[00:19:26] Asking for help.

[00:22:23] Building relationships through kindness.

[[00:27:35] Learning and giving back.

[00:30:19] Time management for entrepreneurs.

[00:36:02] Productivity vs activity.

[00:40:00] Saying "Yes" to Opportunities.

[00:42:22] Balancing entrepreneurship and parenting.

[00:52:02] Younger generation's work mindset.

[00:55:10] AI and labor force.

[00:58:06] Universal Basic Income.

[01:01:02] Robotics and AI disrupting jobs.

[01:04:18] Dystopian future and AI.

[01:14:43] Handmade vs. Technology.

[01:20:57] Importance of playing with AI.

[01:24:21] Disruptive power of ChatGBT.

[01:28:01] Relationship Bank Account.

Connect with Jeff:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fensterjeff/?hl=en

Jeff's Book: https://a.co/d/73tQ3Kt

Everbowl: https://www.everbowl.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

Delusion and Ego in the Art of Comedy Ft. Stand Up Comic Joe Sib.  Subscribe to our channel here: http://www.youtube.com/@chatsandtatts

Aaron Della Vedova, host of the podcast Chats and Tatts, welcomes local comedian Joe Sib to the show. Joe grew up in the Santa Cruz Mountains of Northern California and had a unique upbringing due to living on a ranch. As a result, he had limited access to what other kids were listening to and he would cruise around with a little blue radio, listening to Abba and the Village People, Elton John, the Eagles, and Carly Simon. After his parents divorced, Joe began visiting his dad in San Jose and discovered a new world of punk music at a skateboard park. He was hooked!

The conversation takes us through Joe's career in music and his transition from owning Side One Dummy Records to stand-up comedy and how punk rock influenced the speaker's life. He. also delves into his love for the stage, the challenges he faces even today as a comedian, social media, the 'woke' movement and its impact on comedy, and invites you all to his upcoming headlining show in La Jolla, CA at the Comedy Club.  This episode is FUN so get ready to laugh with the one and only, Joe Sib. 

What we chat about in this episode:

0:00:00 Interview with Comedian Joe Sib: A Look into His Musical Journey

0:02:39 Exploring Music and Skateboarding

0:03:52 Heading: Reflections on Punk Rock and Skateboarding in the 1980s

0:07:03 The Power of Self-Love and Flexibility in Life

0:08:32 The Challenges of Being a Comedian

0:11:35 Courage and Ignorance in Comedy Performance

 0:13:23 Confidence and Taking Risks in Creative Fields

0:15:07 The Impact of Political Correctness on Comedy

0:16:35 The Power of Comedy to Unite People of Different Backgrounds

0:20:21 The Misuse of Comedic Sound Bites for Clicks

 0:22:21 The Laugh Factory and Choosing What You Find Funny

0:23:39 Positive Comedy in a Negative World

0:28:12 Media Consumption and Belief in Humanity

0:31:38 Focusing on the Good News in a World of Bad

0:33:02 The Power of Focusing on What You Can Control

0:38:58 Tattoos, Cats, and Comedy

0:40:47 Lust for Life Tattoo at Spotlight Tattoo in Hollywood

0:42:58 Experiencing Spotlight Tattoo Parlor with Bob Roberts

0:44:23 A Tale of Getting a Tattoo and California Chicken

0:47:34 22 Jacks and Foo Fighters Guitarist Chris Shiflett

0:48:52 Tattooing as a Timestamp of Life

0:56:59 Dave King of the Band Float: Exploring the Unique Sound of Drunken Lola Bye and the Impact of Music on Relationships.

0:58:24 "To Rad to Be Sad"

0:59:48 Life, Tattoos, and Upcoming Shows 

Connect with Joe:

Website: http://www.joesib.com

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

Email: JoeSib22@gmail.com 

Connect with Aaron:

http://www.chatsandtatts.com

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

Guru Tattoo IG: http://www.instagram.com/gurutattoo

Find the fighter in you!

In today’s episode of ‘Chats & Tatts’ Podcast by Aaron Della Vedova, I am joined by Chris “The Crippler” Leben, an American former mixed martial artist, referee, and bare-knuckle boxer. Also, he’s a former WEC champion, UFC fighter, MMA coach, and MMA referee!

Chris competed in the MMA from 2002 to 2013, one of the most notable fighters in the Middleweight division, holding a record of 12-10 in his 22 appearances. He was one of the most controversial and outspoken fighters in history due to his abrasive and melancholy personality, which he developed during his childhood.

His love for fighting began in the early stage and he was very keen to learn boxing and wrestling. Fast forward, he was considered one of the most legendary fighters in history today. But it was not an easy road for Chris, as he struggled with big issues and challenges in life, such as drugs, alcohol, divorce, and anxiety.

So if you want to know more about Chris’ journey to success and fame, what’s it like to live on the edge, his life after MMA, and the real value of his tattoos, head over to listen to this week’s episode!

Timestamps:

0:52 - Guest intro

2:17 - The impact of Chris’ childhood experiences on his fighting career

12:47 - How Chris became a UFC fighter

15:15 - Fame: Pros and cons of being famous

18:26 - UNCUT! Chris Leben’s on drugs, alcohol, parties, and women

22:11 - How Chris overcome anxiety and drug addiction

36:01 - What is success

49:08 - Is fighting a good sport?

56:53 - The transition of MMA from a barbaric sport to being the best combat sport today

1:01:54 - Chris reveals the reasons behind his tattoos

1:14:09 - His post-struggle after battling with a serious CoVid disease

Quotations: 

“My mantra in my younger life is  ‘Everything in excess, nothing in moderation. Go fast, kick ass, chug beers, and crank tunes.’” - Chris Leben

“Bad things happen to us in life, the perspective can change it a hundred percent.” - Aaron Della Vedova

“You spend your whole life saying yes, and then when you find success, you learn the art of saying no, occasionally.” - Aaron Della Vedova

“You gotta manage your time… Time is our most valuable asset.” - Chris Leben

Useful Resources:

• Get a copy of the book: The Crippler: Cage Fighting and My Life on the Edge by Chris Leben

Get in touch:

• Follow Chris on trainingcentersd.com, Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter

Connect with Aaron: 

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chatsandtatts/
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/AaronVedova
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aaron.dellavedova/
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@chatsandtatts/featured

BioMech Pioneer Marcus Lenhard Discusses Decorating the Human Form in Tattooing

SUMMARY 

Aaron Della Vedova interviews tattoo artist Marcus Lenhard on his show, Chats and Tatts. Marcus is a tattoo artist from Germany who specializes in BioMech, a type of art that was popularized by HR Geiger and Aaron Kane. Aaron and Marcus discuss the importance of pushing oneself and never getting too comfortable. Aaron also talks about his recent trip to Switzerland where he visited Guer Castle where HR Giger's Restaurant, Bar Museum is located. It is a seed for the BioMech movement, which is a fusion of nature and animation in concept art and tattooing. The movement is inspired by how nature solves problems and is still alive in concept art and tattooing. 

Guy Atchison and Aaron Kane were two of the most prolific people in bringing BioMech to the tattoo industry. Guy Atchison's craftsmanship of machines has kept BioMech cool and how the impact of their work on the tattoo community has been massive, changing the way people do tattoos from pictures to decorating the body with shapes that move with the human form.

How The Chat Went Down:

0:00:00   Tattoo Artist Marcus Lenhard on BioMech Art and Tattooing

0:02:32   Conversation on HR Giger's Influence on BioMech Art

0:04:18   Exploring the Impact of BioMech on Tattooing

0:09:56   The Impact of Japanese Water Waves on BioMech Tattooing

0:13:39   Exploring the Art of BioMech Tattooing 

0:18:00   Exploring the Evolution of Tattoo Artistry

0:21:28   Exploring the Differences in Tattoo Preferences Between Men and Women

0:27:21   Blackwork Tattoos and the Popularity Among Women

0:29:42   Exploring the Personalization of Tattoo Art

0:31:36   The Process of Creating a Custom Tattoo

0:35:11   "Tips for Long Tattoo Sessions: Strategies for Comfort and Focus"

0:36:53   The Benefits of Taking a Mechanical Approach to Tattooing

0:40:46   Freehand Tattooing

0:44:03   Working Practices and Recent Move to Canada

0:47:00   Honesty in Tattooing: Advice from a 30-Year Veteran

0:53:04   Creative Inspiration Through Reference Prioritization

0:54:53   Nature for Inspiration in Tattoo Artistry

0:56:38   Authentic Artistic Expression Through Nature and AI

1:01:44   The Potential of Artificial Intelligence to Create Novel Experiences

1:06:42  Possibilities of AI-Generated Art

1:09:40   Copyright Infringement and the Impact of the Market on Artistic Expression

1:11:02   The Impact of Technology on Creativity

1:14:06   Technology and Personal Agency

1:17:28   Reflections on Moving to Different Countries and Developing as an Artist

1:18:35   Taking a Break to Find Inspiration and Avoid Burnout

1:20:31   Exploring Psychedelic Experiences

1:28:16   Reflections on Tattooing and Surrendering to Life's Changes

1:31:13   Tattooing with Luxaltera: An Intimate Experience

1:37:37   Artwork and Healing Process

Quotes:

I can just remember running around catching lightning bugs and that sound, picking them off trees. They would emerge from these little bioskeletons, and then the real insect would emerge. And I remember picking up those little things and talk about HR geiger. It looks like where geiger might have got the inspiration. 

I like to get tattoos that remind me of my childhood. And I had a really good childhood growing up in Iowa. Just pure nature. But in Iowa, every so many years, these huge swarms of cicadas would infiltrate our entire neighborhood and make this incredible sound, just, wow.

Your authentic way you approach tattooing, I really appreciate that. Your process, how you interact with your clients, how you like to very carefully gauge where you gather your reference material to keep you more authentic and not just echoing the voices of other artists. 

I feel like you have to develop yourself as an artist, and you can become an amazing artist, but once you are an amazing artist, have you also done some personal development in the meantime?

If you arrive at 40, 45 and you feel like, oh, I feel like I'm still 20 because I haven't really done anything but just, like, tattooing and art and tattooing and art and tattooing and art, then at some point you're like, maybe there's space for some other stuff here that makes me grow as a person.

I still draw, I still paint, but not nearly at this pace I used to, only because I'm striking a balance, like, gosh, can I do something else today besides art? Can I go ride? I like the mountain bike, too, and anything. Just go for a walk.

Building a family while maintaining a career can be a challenging endeavor, as discussed in the podcast episode featuring guest Ryan Ussher. Ryan resides in Australia, owns  and his work is characterized by bold contrast and dynamic composition. Having started his career in tattooing in 2005, Ryan has worked in many places in Australia and abroad, from bustling street shops to small private studios, to hone his skills into a recognizable style that draws from traditional Japanese tattoo and print imagery as well as Western elements. 

Drawing inspiration from traditional Japanese tattooing, the ukiyo-e period, and the colorful Western world, Ryan sees himself somewhere within these boundaries. His tattooing is applied with heavy contrast, movement, and clarity that aims to be noticed from across the street.

He shared his love of craft beer, his tattoo journey, and the experience of meeting his wife, who became pregnant within three months of their relationship. This rapid transition into parenthood brought financial challenges and debt that they had to overcome together. Despite the difficulties, facing these obstacles as a team brought them closer and strengthened their bond.

Tune in for insights into Ryan's artistry and journey in the tattoo industry.

Chat Breakdown:

[00:03:35] Large scale tattooing routine.

[00:06:18] Tattooing and physical health.

[00:07:11] Balancing yoga and weightlifting.

[00:12:52] Laser tattoo removal experiences.

[00:16:04] Blackout tattoo trend analysis.

[00:19:22] The rebellious nature of tattooing.

[00:22:00] Tattoo culture in different neighborhoods.

[00:25:35] Beer review adventures.

[00:32:44] Family travel adventures.

[00:37:15] Date night frequency advice.

[00:39:45] The challenges of balancing life.

[00:44:49] Tattooing's past, present, future.

[00:51:29] The impact of AI in art.

[00:57:51] Evolution of tattoo industry.

[01:06:30] Gun violence and perceptions.

[01:09:07] Gun control and safety.

[01:16:48] Supporting the tattoo industry.

Quotes:

 "Large scale tattooing is, uh, it's a grind, man."

 "I'm into weird beer. That's my thing."

"Identifying with the vibration, I would call it, you know, of the art form, the rebellious nature."

 "When you have kids, this other part of your DNA activates, and suddenly you are just focused and doing the things you need to be doing."

 "I want to do whatever I think is good. And whatever I thought was good was whatever I saw in the magazines that were like, wow, this guy's doing insane realism. Imagine doing that. I'm going to have a crack at it."

 "I really think AI can fuck off."

 "Handmade crafts are gonna be like ten x in value where they are today like they'll be these."

"I'm going to the Mexican lager from Harlan Brewing. I'm a big fan of Mexican beer in general."

 "Imagine walking in and you open your computer screen and there's a little beautiful human that isn't real, that has got all the books sorted out for everybody."

Stay Connected. 

Connect with Ryan: 

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

Lotus Needles: https://www.instagram.com/lotusneedles/

Website: https://www.usshertattoos.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

From bartender to sommelier and mixologist, and owner of The Farm League Restaurant Group and social activist, Adam Stemmler knows all about "Started from the bottom now we're here." His hustle at a young age is more than impressive and by the time he was 23, he had saved all of his bar tips after working 6-7 days a week, accumulating almost 100K. When he got the opportunity to invest with his long-time boss in a new venture, he was ready.

In this episode of Chats and Tatts, host Aaron Della Vedova talks details of Adams's climb and reflects on the importance of humility and continuous growth in the tattooing industry. Tune in for an insightful conversation on the ever-evolving nature of creativity, endurance, and the power of genuine connections.

The chat breakdown:

[00:00:00] The competitive nature of art.

[00:03:11] Reincarnation and familiar connections.

[00:06:08] Service and overcoming adversity.

[00:13:57] State-sponsored financial education.

[00:17:33] Becoming an honorable man.

[00:19:11] The machine behind the curtain.

[00:21:29] The Catholic church's impact.

[00:27:07] Mentors and career growth.

[00:30:03] First craft cocktails 26 years ago.

[00:33:44] Impressive sales strategies.

[00:36:01] The power of service.

[00:42:22] Investing in your own business.

[00:44:23] Advocating for self-worth.

[00:50:47] Meeting Joe Rogan in person.

[00:56:38] Permanent energetic imprints on skin.

[01:02:24] Unrecognized acquaintance turns into friendship.

[01:04:06] Tequila stories.

[01:07:12] Artisanal spirits from Mexico.

[01:10:38] Tequila vs. Mezcal marketability.

[01:15:11] Perseverance and personal growth.

[01:21:17] Egyptian tattoo symbolism.

[01:23:11] Struggling with balance.

[01:26:29] Social activism and making change.

[01:29:26] Leaving material possessions behind.

Quotes:

"Mind fuck yourself into not being the wolf at the top of the hill." - Adam

• "I got addicted. And I mean, I mean, I fully became an addict of making people happy." - Adam

• "Hey man, if there's going to be somebody making some good money in this world, I hope it's the artist." - Aaron

• "But there's a machine behind this curtain. 100%. I've seen it. I've seen it operating." -Aaron

• "Don't cherry pick. Don't straw man that, steel man that. Look at the other side. Look at the fact that you can say whatever you want to say about the Catholic church, but there's no single organization on the planet that feeds more hungry people every year." -Adam

• "I invest in experiences and art and outside of that, I don't really care about things." -Adam

• "You prepared, you saved, you focused, you knew when that opportunity knocked, you were going to be ready. That's a beautiful story, dude." - Aaron

• "The wolf climbing the hill is hungrier than the wolf at the top of the hill." - Adam

• "And by the way, that's really fucking good tequila." -Adam

• "Bourbon production is wasteful on a uniquely American scale." -Adam

• "Tequila is a little bit more approachable to the average palate than mezcal. You don't have the smoke component." -Adam

• 01:15:11 - "I think in that story, there's so many inspirational moments of not giving up, perseverance, willingness to be honest with yourself, which I think is a huge one for people" -Aaron

• 01:29:23 - "no one thinks about all the material shit that they're going to leave behind. Cause none of that means anything." -Adam

   

   

  Connect with Adam:

   

  The Farm League: https://www.farmleaguemgmt.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

   

Breaking into the rock music scene is tough, especially for a woman.  

Badass rock music front woman, Dorothy Martin, is our guest in today’s episode of ‘Chats & Tatts’ with host Aaron Della Vedova. Doroty is an artist, songwriter, and vocalist of the American rock band, Dorothy.

Dorothy is an American rock singer, known for her powerful vocals and dynamic stage presence. She released her debut album "RockisDead" in 2016, which featured the hit single "Raise Hell." Since then, she has been touring extensively and has released several more albums, including "28 Days in the Valley" and "Wild Heart". She is known for her ability to connect with audiences through her music.

Dorothy is also known for her dynamic live performances. She has toured extensively both in the United States and internationally. Her music is influenced by classic rock, blues, and soul, and she has been compared to artists such as Janis Joplin and Grace Slick.

In this episode Dorothy shares her musical influences, the creative process behind her songs, and her experiences touring and performing. She also share stories and anecdotes from her career, and offers insights into the current state of the music industry.

Dorothy was born in Budapest yet raised in San Diego after fleeing with her mom as a young girl.. Her love for singing started as a kid. Later on, she discovered her passion for songwriting. Then she took a leap to follow her musical dreams in Los Angeles. But like in every story, the road to sold out shows and getting a record deal wasn’t an easy one. 

2014 was the year when her named-after band, Dorothy, released their first project and it was a hit. Of course, success would not be possible without her bandmates ~ Jason Ganberg, drummer; Devon Pangle & Eli Wulfmeier, guitarists; and Eliot Lorango, bassist.

Dorothy has more than just music under her belt, she was featured in Maxim Magazine and appeared on ABC’s Scrubs, and Eli Roth’s Goretorium: Music for the Demented Mind Soundtrack as a voiceover and writer. Also, Dorothy was recognized as one of the 50 best new artists by Rolling Stone.

Join us as we discuss her journey to success, how she made her dreams a reality, life on a tour bus and the struggles she has faced on the road, her new found faith and spirituality, and yes, tattoos! 

What we chat about in this episode:

0:36 - Guest intro

1:15 - Dorothy’s story of being the black sheep and where her passion for writing started

7:39 - How to face your fear

10:22 - Why failure is the best teacher

11:04 - Dorothy: God is real! The day I believe in Him.

15:50 - The power of divine intervention

20:29 - Dorothy’s ‘Gifts from the Holy Ghost’ album

21:17 - How to come back from the dark side

24:47 - How to overcome depression

26:17 - Dorothy’s love for Asian foods

27:02 - Dorothy’s favorite movies

28:13 - Understanding the impact of  artificial intelligence (AI) on art and music

31:47 - Dorothy reveals the reasons behind her tattoos

35:01 - Dorothy gets a new tattoo!

35:43 - What’s next for Dorothy?

Quotes: 

“I think fear is the number one thing that stops people from doing anything true.” - Dorothy Martin

“This journey that they're on, they ended up there for a reason.” - Aaron Della Vedova

“Stay where you're at and make it better. Don't be afraid.”  - Dorothy Martin

“... when you talk about facing fear, it really has much to do with how much you love yourself. ‘Cause if you love yourself a lot, you'll face more fear, right?”  - Aaron Della Vedova

Useful Resources:

• Get a copy of Dorothy Martin’s album: Gifts from the Holy Ghost

Get in touch:

• Follow Dorothy on dorothyonfire.com, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, & YouTube
• Connect with Aaron: 
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chatsandtatts/
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/AaronVedova
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aaron.dellavedova/
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@chatsandtatts/featured

In this episode, tattoo artist and winner of Ink Masters season 7, Anthony Michaels, joins host Aaron Della Vedova for a candid conversation about the challenges and rewards of being an artist. They discuss the merging of personal identity with public perception, the importance of staying true to oneself, and the journey of finding the balance between success and maintaining authenticity. Anthony shares his experiences on the show, its impact on his career, and the ongoing process of integrating his true self with the persona created by his victory. Tune in for an insightful discussion on the intersection of art, fame, and personal growth.

Chat Breakdown:

00:00:00 Technology and art merge naturally.
00:07:18 Reconnecting with our inner child.
00:11:03 Follow your passion and dreams.
00:16:37 The power of tattooing.
00:24:39 Ink Master is a humbling experience.
00:25:58 Challenge of staying true to oneself.
00:32:08 Letting go of identity expectations.
00:40:26 Lost balance in pursuit of success.
00:43:02 Importance of self-care and reflection.
00:51:18 Self-forgiveness is necessary for growth.
00:53:48 Forgive yourself and keep evolving.
01:01:47 Embrace discomfort for personal growth.
01:07:45 Growth requires letting go.
01:13:43 Tattoo industry losing human connection.
01:16:00 Human connection is irreplaceable.
The timestamp in the podcast where it starts to discuss the merging of man and machine in tattooing is 01:21:04. The merging of man and machine in tattooing.
01:26:00 AI can enhance creativity responsibly.
01:31:26 Stay true to yourself.
01:38:22 Authenticity leads to personal growth.

Quotes:

"Do I think it can do mass destruction? Fuck yeah."

"Art started for me as a child. I had trouble speaking, and I was able to show up, even though not verbally, I was able to show up through art."

"I can take somebody's emotions, thoughts, feelings, ideas, and physically alter their appearance for the rest of their life."

"First, I'd like to sincerely apologize to my therapist, one of my therapists, because he's been trying to get me to stop running from this experience."

"The challenge to stay true to myself and not become a TV sensation, that was fucking hard."

"Hey, Anthony Michaels, fucking winner season seven. It's like, thank you. But I am, I am not that. That's just something I did."

"Because now what they get when I come home to dinner and sit down at the dinner table, whether I hide it or not, is a man who hasn't forgiven himself."

"Maybe you didn't realize you were being selfish because your intention was to fix yourself, step back, and let the other things handle themselves, but you built this and then you just, because you were overwhelmed, fucking freaked out. That wasn't your intention. So let that go."

"I don't believe that the core of tattooing is gonna be phased out just because of technology and money."

"I make fucking mistakes all the time, all the time, but I just, I want to do right."

"You can only give others what you have."

Connect with Mike: 

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

https://www.instagram.com/twenty_five_twelve/

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

Today we chat with Andrew Arrabito, a former US Navy SEAL who has dedicated his post-military career to marine conservation efforts. He is the founder and CEO of Half Face Blades which employs veterans and is a company that creates custom knives for outdoor enthusiasts and military personnel, and also advocates for sustainable fishing practices and the protection of marine wildlife. Arrabito's experience as a Navy SEAL has informed his approach to marine conservation, and he is a passionate advocate for preserving the ocean and its ecosystems.

Here is the breakdown:

[00:00:00] Bear encounters.

[00:03:44] Becoming a Navy SEAL.

[00:06:00] Miserable ocean swims.

[00:08:29] Physical toll of military service.

[00:11:33] Hallucinogenics for PTSD treatment.

[00:14:30] The power of DMT.

[00:17:14] Overcoming fear through psychedelics.

[00:20:59] Human fear of tomorrow and yesterday.

[00:23:08] Doing the right thing.

[00:25:59] Transitioning from military to civilian life.

[00:28:36] Custom knife design and business.

[00:31:31] Unique knife handles.

[00:36:03] Warpaw wine.

[00:37:22] Aging wine and hot sauce.

[00:40:11] Truffle hot sauce.

[00:43:08] Creating a team for mental health.

[00:45:58] Grizzly bears are no joke.

[00:50:23] Tattooing takes a long time.

[00:53:50] Tattoo meanings and stories.

[00:55:30] Tattoo pain as torture.

[00:57:51] Drinking and tattooing.

[01:02:25] Falconry License.

[01:02:53] Overcoming life's challenges.

Connect with Andrew: 

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

Check out Half Face Blades Website: https://www.halffaceblades.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

Ekali’s Breakthrough: From Sleeping in the Van to Sampling Drake.

SUMMARY 

Aaron Della Vedova chats with Nathan Shaw, known as Ekali, who is a music producer, DJ, and EDM trap-style artist. Ekali has worked with heavy hitters from his first song out of the gate which was picked up by Drake. He has worked with Skrillex, Zoo, and Wafia, to name a few. His journey to get to the top of the food chain in the music industry and that first confidence boost he got when Drake sampled one of his songs.

Ekali’s love of music started at a young age in Vancouver, Canada. When he was in elementary school a special teacher, Ms. Tomlinson, gifted him a violin that changed his life forever. In high school, he struggled academically and eventually dropped out to pursue music full-time. He joined a band but eventually felt creatively unsatisfied only playing bass. 

In the early 2000s, electronic music began to gain popularity, especially in America. This is when the protagonist began to get interested in EDM and started making his own music. His first song was Unfaith, which Drake and Party Next Door sampled, giving him his first big break. He eventually hired an agent in Europe and went on four or five full European tours before becoming a well-known sought-after DJ and producer in America.  But it hasn’t all been easy, fun, or pretty.   

Ekali gets real about drugs, anxiety, and loneliness on the road as a solo artist, and what, or who, is the catalyst for him to course correct and move into the next phase of his career and life.  

Tune in.  We hope you enjoy this open, honest conversation with the remarkably talented Ekali.  

What we chat about:

0:01:55   A Journey from Vancouver to the Music Industry

0:03:20   Ekali’s Musical Journey

0:06:32  Ekali’s Breakthrough Moment and Early Career Experiences

0:11:09  From Touring in a Van to Making Lemonade Out of Lemons

0:14:06  Touring and Substance Abuse

0:16:34   Touring as a Solo Artist

0:20:19   Balancing a Rock Star Lifestyle with Self-Care

0:21:47   Social Anxiety, Solo Album, and Touring During COVID-19

0:25:29  Impact of the Pandemic on Musicians' Live Performance Income

0:27:25   Navigating Touring and Relationships in the Music Industry

0:28:39  Fiance, Touring Life, Marriage Plans, and AI Art

0:30:21   AI and Its Impact on the Arts

0:32:08   Use of AI in Art and Music Creation

0:33:47   Benefits of Utilizing Technology in Music Production

0:35:23   Exploring AI as a Creative Assistant and His Upcoming Music Project

0:41:04   Meaningful Tattoos and Decorating the Human Body

0:46:11  Upcoming Projects and Tour Plans

Quotes:

I kind of put myself in a box, and the type of music that I make isn't necessarily ideal for dance, which is what these events are all about. Like, really heavy trap and dubstep is really fun and there's a lot of high energy, but there's not as much groove as other genres of music.

There are Instagram accounts with hundreds of thousands of followers, and there are artists who just do AI art, and that's it. And to me, that's a little bit scary because it's sort of eroding the integrity of the art. 

I don't think that there will ever be a replacement for human art, but I do think that it's going to make living and prospering off of your art even more difficult than it already is for people who are just beginning, people who are trying to get into the field.

And the environment you're in, it's just like I don't know. I'm sure she trusts you, but I know most women would be like, wow, my husband is traveling around the world surrounded by drugs, alcohol, and women. That's got to be stressful a little bit. Even if they feel completely comfortable and trusting of you, you know, that kind of probably eats at them a little. It would eat on anybody. 

It like, at my peak, I was playing, I think, close to 150 shows a year, so it was very busy. And coming out of COVID my first tour back, I think I played about 30 dates on the tour, and that was over the course of two months, so it was show every other day. But I got burnt out real quick the past few years. I'm getting older, and I'm finding that I want to spend more time at home now, and luckily I'm able to have that luxury. I can afford to just play a show here and there and then spend more time at home with my loved ones and making music.

Connect with Ekali: http://www.ekalimusic.com

YT:  @Ekali 

 IG: http://www.instagram.com/@Ekalimusic

Connect with Aaron: http://www.chatsandtatts.com

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

Guru Tattoo IG: http://www.instagram.com/gurutattoo

In this episode of "Chats and Tatts with Aaron Della Vedova," we sit down with Greg Reed, a keynote speaker, best-selling author, and film producer in the personal development field. With over 150 books in 45 languages, Greg shares his wisdom on how to win in life, find success, and discover contentment and happiness. Tune in for an insightful conversation on achieving your dreams and goals.

[00:02:24] Perseverance and rejection.

[00:04:55] Wealth and happiness.

[00:07:50] Three Feet from Gold.

[00:09:14] Stick ability and adaptability.

[00:13:53] A great mindset.

[00:14:25] Negative bias in society.

[00:18:49] Manifestation and taking action.

[00:20:09] Vibrating molecules and frequencies.

[00:24:30] Manifestation and energy.

[00:26:29] Nuclear Fusion and Novelty.

[00:29:30] Impact of self-driving cars.

[00:32:00] AI and Creativity.

[00:36:12] Universal income and job automation.

[00:39:03] Rethinking allowance and money. [

00:40:37] The rise of web three. [

00:44:06] The future is bright.

[00:46:33] Managing overwhelming communication.

[00:49:30] Wish Man and Make-A-Wish Foundation.

[00:52:09] Duck diving towards challenges.

[00:55:09] Holding on to people.

[00:57:19] Letting go of toxic relationships.

[01:00:27] Addiction to consumerism and stuff.

[01:03:29] Living a non-attached life.

[01:06:52] First tattoo at 60.

[01:08:49] Learning from successful individuals.

[01:12:23] Evander Holyfield's higher standard.

Connect with Greg:

https://gregreid.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

#perserverance #tattoo #tattooartist #chatsandtatts

In this episode of Chats and Tatts, host Aaron Della Vedova interviews Co-founders of Sullen Clothing, Ryan Smith and Jeremy Hanna.  Streetwear has come a long way since its early days in the 1980s and 1990s, and Sullen is here to ensure tattoo-inspired clothing that blends and highlights everything unique about the art of urban apparel. 

Originally founded as a collective of driven, talented tattoo artists, Sullen Clothing has its roots in the SoCal beach culture of the early 2000s. Already a well-established tattooer, co-owner Ryan Smith began blending tattoo art with new fashion trends, and from that Sullen’s urban streetwear brand was created.

Far from simply reusing “cool” graphics or following the trends, Sullen became a trailblazer producing unique, original art that it then transferred to streetwear like premium t-shirts, boxers, hoodies, and hats.

Today Sullen is still one of the most popular tattoo apparel brands in the world, offering a wide range of expressive designs and wearable art pieces for tattoo lovers everywhere.

Today, our guests share their stories of starting from the ground up and building their brand without relying on venture capitalist money. Tune in to hear about their journey in the notoriously difficult apparel industry and their take on the world of AI.

Chat Breakdown: 

[00:01:47] Building a successful apparel brand.

[00:04:30] Starting a tattoo apparel company.

[00:06:22] Starting from nothing and growing.

[00:10:13] Cost vs. quality in apparel.

[00:15:35] The evolution of tattooing.

[00:16:57] Traditional tattoo apprenticeship.

[00:22:47] Tattooing as a brand.

[00:26:45] Tattooing constantly evolving.

[00:29:35] The power of tattooing.

[00:33:09] The healing power of tattoos.

[00:42:12] Maintaining a successful marriage.

[00:45:43] Balancing work and family.

[00:49:26] Putting the damn phone down.

[00:50:33] The future of technology.

[00:54:05] Tattooing with Midjourney.

[00:57:24] The impact of technology on tattooing.

[01:00:01] AI-generated website design.

[01:03:21] Clothing design collaboration.

[01:06:55] They want art.

[01:09:35] Keeping the podcast alive.

Quotes:

In this emotional episode of "Chats and Tatts with Aaron Della Vedova," the host welcomes Matt  Camaranno who shares his experiences and memories from prison. Matt reflects on his friendship with a fellow inmate, Randy, who was a lifer. Despite their circumstances, the two formed a close bond, doing everything together and supporting each other. The guest recalls the difficulty of leaving Randy behind when he was released and expresses his genuine reluctance, and not knowing how to “go home”. This heartfelt conversation delves into the untold stories of prison life and the deep connections that can be formed in such challenging environments. Tune in to hear the guest's powerful story and the personal connections it evokes for the host.

Chat breakdown:

[00:00:00] Friendship in prison.

[00:04:23] Story of redemption and courage.

[00:08:27] Graffiti as a form of freedom.

[00:10:05] Joining a gang and regret.

[00:12:15] The downward spiral of addiction.

[00:17:02] Cluster headaches and psilocybin.

[00:18:19] Migraines and psychedelic experiences.

[00:21:40] Long-term relationship with methamphetamine.

[00:24:12] Life is unmanageable.

[00:27:06] Forgotten release date in prison.

[00:29:40] Going home from prison.

[00:31:06] Leaving prison and saying goodbye.

[00:34:09] Turning a home into a trap house.

[00:36:33] Hitting my dad in psychosis.

[00:40:58] A miraculous turning point.

[00:42:30] Sullen clothing and sobriety.

[00:45:32] Helping others in recovery.

[00:49:19] Forgiving and loving oneself.

[00:51:33] Viking and Cholo art.

[00:55:12] Tattoos and personal stories.

[00:57:05] Tattoos and memories.

Quotes:

"We're all born the same, man. We're all born pure light, full of nothing but love and without fear."

"Yeah, we have these old antiquated systems like oh bad guy throw him in a prison cell. That'll make him better Well, we've seen that doesn't really work that well"

"It took one hit. Instant, I remember the moment I closed my eyes, I heard my ears ring, my head popped."

"A lot of people listening might not pay much attention to it, but it's well documented what crack did to this country in those years, you know?"

"It's me. It's what I'm doing. It's not you. It's not my mom. It's not the drugs. It's Matt."

"There's not a lot of good things in prison, but you make some really good friendship with guys that you can't ever change and you can't ever redo."

"I got you. It's your time. I believe you and you're genuine. Let's get you back on your feet and by proxy now my feet get to help a bunch of other people."

"I'm still trying to get back to that little boy that used to just run through the field at cornfields of Iowa, flying a kite, picking up earthworms, happy, go lucky. Everything was beautiful."

Connect with Matt: 

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

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

The significance of vulnerability and honesty emerges as a central theme in both personal and professional contexts. Patrick's approach to his work and interactions illustrates how these qualities can foster deeper connections and enhance the overall quality of relationships with tattoo clients, and in our personal lives. 

Host Aaron Della Vedova sits down with tattoo artist Patrick Paul O'Neil, who has quickly made a name for himself in the tattoo community. Aaron shares his admiration for Patrick's impressive work and thoughtful approach to art and life. The conversation dives into Patrick's journey as an artist, the importance of vulnerability and honesty in his creative process, and his recent collaborations, including a potential partnership with fellow artist Fibs. Join them as they explore the deeper meanings behind tattoo art and the connections it fosters within the community. Tune in for an insightful and introspective discussion that highlights the transformative power of art.

Chat Breakdown:

01:34 - Patrick's Journey and Collaboration
02:39 - Patrick's Tattoo Style
05:48 - Honesty and Transparency
06:17 - Vulnerability in the Creative Process
09:00 - Philosophical and Spiritual Influences
12:39 - Facing Mortality and Living Fully
18:02 - Balancing Business and Humanity
25:18 - Connecting Through the Podcast
28:19 - Dropping Prejudices
31:27 - Business Transparency and Fairness
37:10 - Clear Communication in Business
40:09 - Growth and Learning from Business Ownership

Quotes:

"I'm trying to take the spirit not the aesthetic... there are lessons in like the spirit and intention in the work."

"Embodiment is sort of a phase beyond words where an experience, or maybe it's not a singular experience, maybe it just eases into you over time, but you feel like it's a part of you."

"It's almost like God or the creator gives you complete enlightenment upon birth, then through existing on in a physical domain, you slowly lose it."

"I've sacrificed my morals, I've sacrificed time with my children, I've sacrificed my health, I've sacrificed nurturing my relationship with my wife."

"It was kind of like the universe knocking on my door. Like, we have this for you. Do you, you know, it's custom made for you. Do you want it?"

"I can almost guarantee you, you're going to grow. But I need you to understand the reason you're going to grow is because this shop is profitable."

"There's no need for anger or resentment. There really isn't."

"Money can buy freedom. Money can buy creativity. Money can buy space to explore these things."

"Ultimately, I believe we exude a frequency, a signature. And I think that that signature attracts that same signature closer to you."

"I just want to create love and friendship and beauty and art, and I can't seem to escape these type of people in my life."

"As soon as you can see the wound, from that day forward, it starts to heal."

"The best part about getting tattooed has nothing to do with the tattoo. It's more so like the transformation that kind of goes through having to sit through that process."

Stay Connected:

Chats & Tatts:

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

Connect with Aaron:⁠  

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

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

Connect witth Patrick:

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

Tattoo Renaissance: Calle Corson on Tattoo Craft, Culture, and Change

The evolution of tattooing has been significantly shaped by various factors, including trends, technology, and economic conditions, which have collectively influenced client preferences and artist practices.

In this episode of Chats and Tatts, host Aaron Della Vedova welcomes the esteemed tattoo artist Calle Corson, a Swedish artist known for his innovative approach to Japanese tattooing. Aaron shares his deep admiration for Calle's work, highlighting the influence it has had on his own career. The conversation dives into the history of tattooing, including personal anecdotes about the early days of booking appointments through letters. Listeners are treated to insights into Calle's journey as a tattoo artist, entrepreneur, and father, as well as a discussion on the evolving landscape of tattoo culture. Tune in for an engaging dialogue that celebrates the artistry and passion behind tattooing.

Chat Breakdown:

[00:01:10] Modern Japanese tattooing influence.

[00:06:15] Graffiti's influence on tattooing.

[00:08:06] Tattooing journey and apprenticeship.

[00:12:40] Philip Liu's mentorship in tattooing.

[00:15:07] Opening a tattoo studio.

[00:19:37] Transitioning from tattooing to teaching.

[00:23:39] Work-life balance challenges.

[00:29:50] Tattoo industry struggles in Sweden.

[00:30:37] Marketing in the tattoo industry.

[00:36:05] Tattooing trends and economic impact.

[00:39:39] Social media and tattoo trends.

[00:41:18] AI's impact on tattooing.

[00:50:11] AI's potential in medicine.

[00:53:41] Tattooing in a surgical center.

[00:58:10] Tattooing with technology and art.

[01:01:18] Surrendering to pain in life.

[01:07:32] The intimacy of tattooing relationships.

[01:12:03] Intravenous NAD benefits.

[01:16:32] Dreaming of a cabin studio.

Quotes:

 "Caring about the quality of tattooing that's happening in the shop every day, you know, it's pretty loose."

 "I don't want to say I regret it because it's just, it's all beautiful and perfect in its own way."

"I basically have just doubled down on marketing, you know, because the industry has completely filled up."

"I don't trust what you read online and all this stuff. I mean, it's all just propaganda, most of it."

"Getting tattooed is an act of surrender. Pain in general, whether it be emotional or physical pain, you can't always get rid of pain, but you can surrender to pain."

"I think AI is the most interesting thing to happen in human history."

 "I am not mad at anything anyone does if it isn't hurting people or fucking me or my shit up."

"You're not only selling a tattoo, you're also selling an experience."

 "Succumbing to it, to not resist, is a big, big key to life, man."

Stay Connected:

Connect with Calle: 

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

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

Chat Breakdown:

In this episode of Chats and Tatts, host Aaron Della Vedova interviews Robert Morton, AKA Boney The Tattooer, a talented Cleveland-based tattoo artist known for his outstanding photorealistic work. They discuss how the artist's background in construction helped him secure an apprenticeship in the tattoo industry. They delve into the concept of apprenticeships and how they can mutually benefit the teacher and the apprentice. The artist's unique twist on photorealism, adding a surrealistic touch, is also explored. Please tune in to learn more about the artist's journey and his distinct artistic voice.

Chat breakdown:

[00:00:06] Using construction to enter tattooing.

[00:04:07] Comic books and art journey.

[00:08:50] Art as a form of meditation.

[00:09:18] Childhood hobbies and creativity.

[00:12:43] Hardworking plumber turned boxer.

[00:15:14] The boxing industry being rigged.

[00:18:15] Sales and door-to-door experiences.

[00:23:35] A cancellation as an opportunity.

[00:25:31] Tattooing as an emerging art form.

[00:27:44] Comic book art styles.

[00:31:07] Traditional apprenticeship dynamics.

[00:34:05] The Renaissance period in tattooing.

[00:38:40] Tattooing as a brotherhood.

[00:42:00] Guiding principles in decision-making.

[00:44:28] Providing value in tattoo art.

[00:46:54] Tattooing for confidence.

[00:51:36] Criticism of color realism.

[00:54:22] Dealing with darker skin tones.

[00:56:13] Skin tones and contrast.

[01:00:20] Large format tattoo limitations.

[01:03:42] Under anesthesia for tattoos.

[01:06:42] Pain is good.

[01:09:29] The tattoo high.

[01:12:05] Podcast platforms and social media.

Quotes:

"I'm 52, looking back on life, and it's funny how one little character can show up in a person's life and change their entire direction."

"But all these little punches and beat ups we take in life, they're all just shaping you and giving you new tools, you know?"

"Like I like to really saturate that shit in there. It takes a little bit longer, but it overall, like the finished product, it's just so tight and it can look so clean."

"Pain is part of life. Pain is perspective. Pain is the contrast between what gives us joy and what doesn't, but you're not gonna feel high levels of joy without having gone through some shit, you know?"

Stay connected:

Connect with Boney:

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

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 dives into a fascinating conversation about the evolving trends in tattooing culture with guest, the worlds best known black and gray tattoo artist, Carlos Torres. Born and raised in Gardena, California, during the 1980s and '90s, Carlos developed an early passion for art, inspired by the superheroes and fantasy illustrations in local comic books. Initially considering a career as an art teacher, he opted to pursue tattooing in his teenage years, a field where he is predominantly self-taught.

A renowned tattoo artist with 27 years of experience, who has revolutionized the tattooing scene, Carlos and Aaron get into what younger tattoo enthusiasts are normalizing what they call "shitty tattooing," indicating a shift in appreciation for traditional techniques.  In October 2017, Torres founded The Raven and The Wolves, a combined tattoo studio and fine art gallery located in Downtown Long Beach. This establishment serves as a collaborative space for artists and hosts classes and seminars led by Torres and other professionals

The episode delves into a recent encounter with a celebrity's son who desires an aged-looking tattoo, highlighting a growing trend among younger clients who favor a more "imperfect" aesthetic. Aaron shares insights from a chat room where younger tattoo enthusiasts are normalizing what they call 'shitty tattooing,' indicating a shift in appreciation for traditional techniques.

They also explore the intersections of tattooing with other art forms, such as painting and sculpting, and how these influences enrich the tattoo process.  Tune in for insights on creativity, industry trends, and the future of tattooing.

Chat Breakdown:

00:00:00 - The Trend of Aged Tattoos
00:04:14 - The Leap of Faith in Tattooing
00:04:49 - Carlos Torres' Early Influences
00:08:09 - Struggles of Getting an Apprenticeship
00:10:16 - Avoiding Gang Life
00:11:15 - Evolution of Chicano Tattooing
00:13:55 - Large Format Tattooing Challenges
00:19:56 - Issues with Colored Inks
00:22:23 - Opening The Raven and the Wolves
00:23:45 - Censorship and Freedom of Speech
00:30:21 - The Evolution of Tattoo Art
00:33:20 - Normalizing Shitty Tattooing
00:34:29 - The Future of Tattooing
00:37:03 - Importance of Learning Cover-Ups
00:38:18 - Laser Removal and Cover-Ups
00:39:08 - AI and Tattoo Art

Quotes:

"They want to normalize shitty tattooing."

"It's an all in choice. And if you don't want to be all in, then be a sound engineer, be on the sidelines and record the guy who is all in."

This is like the number one rule for America. Freedom of speech. Yeah. And man, they just shutting us down."

"Sometimes when you're trying to create a new movement with that much power and control around you, you kind of, sadly enough, have to play their game a little."

"I was like, damn, at least you're being real, because he's right. He's fucked."

"Now if you're not seeking out truth about food and media and politics, on your own, shame on you then."

Stay Connected:

Connect with Carlos: 

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

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