Have you ever wondered how your artistic style develops over time? Greg "Craola" Simpkins, a revered name in both graffiti circles and the painting industry, shares his fascinating journey from street art to creating surrealistic canvases. In this episode, we dive into how his distinctive style evolved, the nuances of balancing creativity in graffiti and painting, and practical insights for artists looking to merge different art forms. Simpkins will also present at the Richmond Tattoo and Arts F...
Aug 20, 2025•1 hr 14 min•Ep. 305
Rich walked us through his 25-year journey from scrappy home tattooer to the artistic powerhouse he is today, sharing real insights about finding your voice in this industry. This episode covers everything from the grind of finding apprenticeships back in the day to his current process of creating multiple design versions and building that creative environment for his family. Trust me, whether you're just starting out or you've been slinging ink for decades, Rich's insights on technique, client ...
Aug 13, 2025•1 hr 7 min•Ep. 304
Hey Friends! We just had another great conversation featuring the incredibly talented Timmy B, and let me tell you, this interview is packed with some serious tattoo gold. This new school powerhouse breaks down everything from his evolution as an artist to the nitty-gritty of color theory that'll blow your mind. We're talking about collaboration, the challenges of sleeve composition, and why sometimes the best approach is to just wing it when you're up on stage. Plus, you'll get the inside scoop...
Jul 23, 2025•47 min•Ep. 303
Don't miss Yomico teaching at the Richmond Tattoo and Arts Academy this October. You can get tickets at https://richmondtattooconvention.com/academy/ You can keep up with Yomico at https://www.instagram.com/yomicoart/ https://yomicoart.com/ Thanks to our sponsor Tattoo Trunk. Take 10% off your bundle with the code Fireside https://www.tattootrunk.com/ Are you a beginning tattooer or an apprentice ? Click below https://explore.firesidetattoo.com/tattoo-apprentices-toolkit Are you a seasoned tatto...
Jul 09, 2025•52 min•Ep. 302
Keep up with David Cheifetz at the links below https://www.davidcheifetz.com/ https://www.instagram.com/davidcheifetz/?hl=en Get your tickets to the Richmond Tattoo and Arts Academy https://richmondtattooconvention.com/academy/ Thanks to TattooTrunk for sponsoring today's episode Take 10% off your Trio or Quad set at https://www.tattootrunk.com/ Are you a beginning tattooer or an apprentice ? Click below https://explore.firesidetattoo.com/tattoo-apprentices-toolkit Are you a seasoned tattoo vet ...
Jun 25, 2025•44 min•Ep. 301
Thanks to our newest partner Tattoo Trunk for making this episode possible! Get 10% off your Tattoo Trunk order with the code FIRESIDE at checkout https://www.tattootrunk.com/ Keep up with Patrick Paul O'Neil at https://www.instagram.com/the_burning_jewel/ We’ve got another Inside Fireside Tattoo Club sneak preview for you today! This time it’s with a real friend of the podcast Patrick Paul O’Neil. The group has been holding these Technique Talks that go beyond surface-level conversation about t...
Jun 07, 2025•2 hr 26 min
Thanks to our newest partner Tattoo Trunk for making this episode possible! Get 10% off your Tattoo Trunk order with the code FIRESIDE at checkout https://www.tattootrunk.com/ Hey, what's going on, everybody? In today's mind-bending interview with geometric master Dillon Forte we'll be diving deep into his meticulous approach to geometric tattoo designs. This guy has some serious ideas about sacred geometry that'll have you seeing triangles and circles in your sleep, trust me. Dillon has develop...
May 14, 2025•1 hr 29 min•Ep. 299
Alright folks, we've got something special for today as we dive into the mind of Corey Bernhardt! A true artist who’s not afraid to wear his influences on his sleeve. When Corey came by the Inside Fireside Club, he brought decades of artistic evolution that shaped his unique approach to technique - from those early comic book days to his masterful command of tattoo machines. Corey breaks down his philosophy into what he calls "self-learned technique, learned technique, and working technique," gi...
May 07, 2025•2 hr 22 min•Ep. 298
In the evolving world of tattoo aftercare, understanding the science behind healing can make all the difference in preserving your artwork for decades. When we talked with Don Ranns, we dug into how inflammation affects tattoo healing and why ingredients like CBD are showing promising results for reducing redness and irritation during the critical first days after getting inked. The shift from petroleum-based products that simply create a barrier to natural formulations that actually nourish the...
Apr 16, 2025•46 min•Ep. 296
What's up everyone, I just had the opportunity to sit down with the incredibly talented Levi Hilton, a recommendation from our friend Patrick O'Neal, and it turned out to be one of the best episodes we've recorded in quite a while. Levi shared his journey from Louisiana to San Diego, diving deep into how animation influenced his unique tattoo style and the importance of understanding how designs interact with the body as a canvas. We explored some really profound concepts about simplifying art f...
Apr 09, 2025•1 hr 13 min•Ep. 295
We're diving deep into the world of Gifford Kasen! An artist who didn't just learn tattooing, but breathed it, challenged it, and transformed through relentless curiosity. From punk rock flyers to intricate large scale biomech designs, to incredible fine art, this is about breaking down artistic barriers and finding your own voice in a world that's constantly trying to box you in. Every technical skill, every experimental technique, every moment of creative friction becomes part of the toolkit o...
Mar 26, 2025•37 min•Ep. 294
The tattoo industry has always been about overcoming obstacles, but few challenges hit as hard as finding the right space to call home. When we caught up with Robyn and Ty Pallotta at the Star of Texas Tattoo Convention, their story of facing 20+ rejections from property managers struck a chord that many artists can relate to. Their journey from a private studio to fighting antiquated lease stipulations highlights the evolving landscape of our industry in growing cities like Austin. As veterans ...
Mar 19, 2025•44 min•Ep. 293
Join Gabe and Jake for their live joint seminar and critique below: https://explore.firesidetattoo.com/fstxtn Lately I've been hearing a lot of chatter about tattoo shops struggling with slower bookings and more cancellations than usual. It's got me thinking about how we can adapt and keep our shops thriving in these challenging times. That's why I sat down with industry veteran Gabe Ripley to dig into some old-school marketing strategies that still pack a punch today. We're talking about gettin...
Feb 26, 2025•56 min•Ep. 292
The intersection of technology and tattooing has always fascinated me, which is why I was particularly excited to dive into a recent conversation with Russ Abbott about the evolution of Tattoo Smart. From its humble beginnings as a digital marketplace in 2016 to its current position at the forefront of tattoo design innovation, Russ's journey reflects the larger transformation happening in our industry. What started with simple brush sets and digital palettes has evolved into something far more ...
Feb 19, 2025•55 min•Ep. 291
Tattoo studios are evolving, and so is the technology that supports them. In todays episode of the podcast, Nate Laff, co-founder of Rev 23, discusses the journey of modernizing tattoo management software, transitioning from a Windows desktop platform to a streamlined cloud-based and mobile app solution. By focusing on essential features like client management, release forms, and supply tracking, Rev 23 aims to meet the changing needs of tattoo artists, especially those working in private studio...
Feb 05, 2025•34 min•Ep. 289
Something a little different this time around. We're not talking to another tattoo artist today - we're diving deep with Jenny Chambers, a serious tattoo collector who's got stories that'll make you see this whole world differently. In the current tattoo climate, it's not just about finding an artist who can slap some ink on you - it's about building relationships, understanding the craft, and respecting the process. When Jenny talks about collecting work from legends like Jeff Gogue, Phil Garci...
Jan 29, 2025•32 min•Ep. 288
In this episode, Edgar Marquez breaks down his unique freehand tattooing style, explaining how ditching stencils has allowed him to create more fluid, dynamic designs with intense focal points. He shares insights on balancing texture and value, harmonizing new tattoos with existing work, and the importance of observing tattoo masters to evolve as an artist. Edgar also opens up about managing client comfort, avoiding burnout, and finding fresh inspiration through personal art projects. Whether yo...
Jan 22, 2025•41 min•Ep. 287
The tattoo industry is undergoing significant transformation, facing challenges from medical scrutiny to economic shifts. Concerns about health risks and heavy metals in tattoo inks have long plagued the industry, prompting ongoing debates about safety and perception. Despite these challenges, tattoo artists continue to innovate and defend their craft. Durb Morrison and Jake take some time at the Richmond Tattoo And Arts Fest to talk about how the medical industry seems to be pushing on tattooin...
Dec 18, 2024•35 min•Ep. 286
Sign up for Guy's Coverup Workshop: https://tattoos.social/reinventing-the-tattoo-coverup-webinar Join the Inside Fireside Tattoo Club https://explore.firesidetattoo.com/inside-fireside Join Reinventing the Tattoo: https://www.reinventingthetattoo.com/ Are you a beginning tattooer or an apprentice ? Click below https://explore.firesidetattoo.com/tattoo-apprentices-toolkit Are you a seasoned tattoo vet who is stuck in a rut? click below https://explore.firesidetattoo.com/tattooers-toolkit Support...
Oct 01, 2024•27 min•Ep. 286
We’ve got an excellent conversation for you today with longtime friend of Fireside, Jesse Smith! As both Jesse and Jake promote different tattoo conventions they discuss some of the difficulties in thinking about the attendees vs the tattooers, the struggles between progress vs keeping it traditional, education, and many other topics. There’s a ton of work and a ton of love that happens trying to get all the moving parts going in the same direction and connecting the dots. We really hope you enj...
Sep 18, 2024•58 min
In this final episode with Kurt Jacobsen, we dive into pain management for clients during multi day sessions. Kurt shares his thoughts about how, when and where to use Bactine for maximum effectiveness as well as why clients might choose to use a regimen of ibuprofen during the tattoo process. Enjoy! And Go Here to see the extensive notes on the website: https://www.firesidetattoo.com/tattoo-library/the-art-of-competition-tattooing-part-3-pain-management-ep-284~29265 Keep up with us at: https://...
Sep 04, 2024•1 hr 4 min•Ep. 284
We’re back again for Part 2 of the 3 Part Series on Competition Tattooing! Check out the Deep Dive with notes on the website: https://www.firesidetattoo.com/tattoo-library/the-art-of-competition-tattooing-part-2-kurt-jacobsen-ep-283~29262 In the first part of this series with Kurt, we dove into the challenges and rewards of competing in the tattoo industry. In this episode, Kurt delves into the crucial topic of pain and client management during tattoo sessions, highlighting the importance of com...
Aug 22, 2024•54 min•Ep. 283
We’ve got an exciting multi-part series for you with our good buddy, and previous guest Kurt Jacobsen! To us Kurt is known as ultra competitive and uniquely unflappable. He’s also EXTREMELY precise. In this part of conversation, Jake and Kurt discuss the challenges and benefits of competition in the tattoo industry. They explore the decision to compete, knowing your limits, and the need for full commitment and excitement. They highlight the value of networking, receiving critiques, and incentivi...
Aug 14, 2024•1 hr 18 min•Ep. 282
For this interview Jake dives into an insightful conversation with Jesse Drach, owner of Ink-Link, about the intricacies of marketing in the tattoo industry. Jesse shares expert advice on leveraging social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram, utilizing Google Ads, and the importance of targeting the right audience to promote tattoo shops and artists effectively. They also highlight the significance of Google reviews, geofencing in advertising, and creating engaging ads, providing invalua...
Jul 17, 2024•1 hr 5 min•Ep. 281
Find all the links and details about this episode on our deep dive page: https://www.firesidetattoo.com/tattoo-library/free-ticket-to-paradise-amy-nicholls-derek-youngberg-paradise-tattoo-gathering~29254 The Paradise Tattoo Gathering is one of the most unique tattoo events in the world. A place where artists can learn from some of the best in the craft. It's like summer camp for tattooers! And we would love to give you or someone you know the opportunity to experience this incredible event for F...
Jun 19, 2024•45 min•Ep. 281
We’ve got something exciting for you today! The Inside Fireside Tattoo Club hosted a panel discussion focusing on finance and money management tailored for tattoo artists. Originating from our popular Mindset Monday conversations, this particular session delves into topics such as passive income opportunities, strategies to supplement tattooing income, savings tactics, and beyond. We really tried to gear the conversation towards people who are just starting to think about their long term finance...
May 15, 2024•1 hr 49 min•Ep. 280
Check Out the Deep Dive On FiresideTattoo.com: https://www.firesidetattoo.com/tattoo-library/side-hustle-gone-wild-thom-bulman-ep-279~29247 After COVID and the world had shut down Thom, a 17 year tattooer, was struggling to figure out where he was in tattooing. Between making custom shoes and not not knowing when tattooing might freeze up again he felt like he had to make some real decisions. In this interview he shares his journey of transitioning from tatt slanger to full time sneaker smuggler...
May 08, 2024•1 hr 9 min
This is a sneak peak of what you can find in the Inside Fireside Tattoo Club. We’ve curated this particular conversation because we think it exemplifies one of the pillars of what the group is trying to achieve as a whole. Creating conversations and provoking discussions that help tattooers get out of their own head and into their careers to make progress. Groups like ours have started to appear more regularly as tattooing has grown year after year. It’s clear that support, community, and educat...
Mar 20, 2024•1 hr 20 min•Ep. 278
Join Tattoo Tips Tuesday for FREE! https://www.firesidetattoo.com/tattoo-library/tattoo-tips-tuesday~29102 Tattoo Apprentice's Toolkit https://explore.firesidetattoo.com/tattoo-apprentices-toolkit Tattooers Toolkit https://explore.firesidetattoo.com/tattooers-toolkit The current landscape of tattooing is inundated with a surge of new and untrained tattooers, facilitated by the accessibility of resources like YouTube tutorials, Instagram, and online courses. The once formidable barriers to entry ...
Feb 07, 2024•54 min•Ep. 277
Check out the Deep Dive Page on Firesidetattoo.com: https://www.firesidetattoo.com/tattoo-library/ahoy-wealth-tattoo-pirates-hoisting-the-flag-of-financial-freedom-ryan-roi-ep-276~29185 In the dynamic world of tattooing and artistry, financial literacy is often overlooked. And while being a pirate is all well and good, hoarding your cash in a box under your bed isn’t exactly going to help you with retirement. However, Jake has brought on Ryan Roi to shed light on the transformative power of coac...
Nov 29, 2023•1 hr 6 min
