The Tattoo Marketing Podcast - podcast cover

The Tattoo Marketing Podcast

Ink-Link•pod.co

🎙️ Welcome to The Tattoo Marketing Podcast — the ultimate podcast for tattoo shop owners looking to take their business to the next level! 🚀 If you’re ready to grow your shop, attract more clients, and master the art of marketing, this is the show for you.

Join us as we explore proven strategies, creative branding ideas, and the latest trends in the tattoo industry. From social media hacks to in-shop promotions, every episode is packed with actionable tips designed to help you build a thriving tattoo business.

Whether you’re just starting or you’ve been inking for years, we’re here to inspire, educate, and empower you on your entrepreneurial journey. 💼

👉 Tune in every week for expert interviews, marketing insights, and practical advice to help you stand out in the tattoo world.


Don’t just run a tattoo shop — build your legacy.

Subscribe now and unlock your potential! 💡

If you're interested in seeing if we'd be a good fit for your shop's marketing, go to www.ink-link.com

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Episodes

Impatient Advertising Is Killing Your Shop’s Growth

Most tattoo shop owners quit on their ads way too early—costing them time, money, and clients. In this episode, Jesse breaks down why rushing to judge your marketing is one of the biggest mistakes you can make, how long it really takes to see results on Google and Meta ads, and what to track so you don’t waste your budget. If you’ve ever said, “I tried ads, and they didn’t work,” this one’s for you.

Jun 22, 2025•18 min•Season 2Ep. 40

Booked Out with Big Pieces—How Silas Built Her Tattoo Career

In this episode, we sit down with Silas (@800stabyou) to talk about how she went from a Craigslist apprenticeship in Brooklyn to becoming a booked-out color realism artist in Portland. She shares what helped her grow—not just as an artist, but as a communicator—and how one discounted tattoo turned into a full roster of large-scale work. We get into apprenticeship stories, the value of client connection, and what really keeps people coming back. If you’re a tattoo artist trying to grow your caree...

Jun 14, 2025•28 min•Season 2Ep. 39

Bridging Old School & New Tools In The Tattoo World with Joseph Swanson

Veteran tattooer Joseph Swanson shares his 28-year journey through the tattoo industry , from his early days in Monterey, CA, to becoming a California Highway Patrol officer, to launching one of the first tattoo podcasts, and eventually helping lead Tattoo Pro —a CRM built specifically for tattoo shops. He reflects on the evolution of tattoo culture, the need for artists to embrace digital tools, and why shops must modernize to thrive in today’s ultra-competitive market. Topics include: The shif...

Jun 09, 2025•1 hr 4 min•Season 2Ep. 38

How A Tattoo Artist Did 1,000 Tattoos in 4 Months and Found His Style

From luxury fashion to black & gray realism, George Hristov shares how he tattooed over 1,000 people in just 4 months, built his style from scratch, and why raw hustle, humility, and smart marketing matter more than ever for tattoo artists today.

May 25, 2025•24 min•Season 2Ep. 37

Your Career, Your Rules: Real Talk from a Tattoo Veteran w/ Ocean Tattoos

Your Career, Your Rules: Real Talk from a Tattoo Veteran In this no-filter conversation, we sit down with a seasoned tattoo artist who’s carved his name into the Bay Area ink scene — from the gritty streets of Vallejo to the artistic haven of Old Crow Tattoo in Berkeley. We talk real life: 🧠 Navigating burnout, balance, and family 🎯 Why location doesn’t define your success 🎙️ Raw stories from behind the needle 💡 How community and mindset are the real game changers Whether you’re an aspiring ...

Apr 13, 2025•27 min•Season 2Ep. 36

Why Tattoo Artists Must Think Like A CEO/Featuring Force Of Focus

In this episode, Michael Goetz — co-owner of Legacy Tattoo and founder of Force of Focus — breaks down the mindset shift every tattoo artist needs to thrive in 2025. From battling burnout to building systems that support freedom, he reveals how artists can go from chaotic to controlled, from stuck to scaling. If you’re ready to stop surviving and start leading like a tattoo CEO, this one’s for you.

Apr 06, 2025•49 min•Season 2Ep. 35

The Hidden FB/IG Ads Analytics Tool Every Tattoo Shop Should Use

Are you still boosting posts on Facebook or Instagram to promote your tattoo shop? 😬 In this episode of the Tattoo Marketing Podcast, Jesse from Ink-Link breaks down why that strategy is silently draining your ad budget—and what to do instead. Discover how to tap into Meta’s advanced analytics (that most tattoo shops don’t even know exist) to create laser-targeted ads that consistently bring in high-quality leads. Whether you’re running ads already or just getting started, this episode reveals ...

Mar 27, 2025•13 min•Season 2Ep. 34

Tattoo Shop Chaos to Calm: The Tool That Fixes Everything w/ Adam Facenda

Running a tattoo shop is hard enough—don’t let outdated systems slow you down. In this episode, we sit down with Adam Facenda , owner of True Love Tattoo and founder of Keep The Fees , the all-in-one tattoo shop management software designed by tattooers, for tattooers . We dive into: • How Adam created KTF to solve real tattoo shop problems • Why most tattoo shop POS systems and CRMs fall short • How you can automate client booking, payroll, and release forms in one platform • The secret to elim...

Mar 23, 2025•39 min•Ep. 34

Client Chronicles: Terr - From Hidden Tattoos to Ink Master Canvas

Ever wondered what it’s like to go from secretly getting your first tattoo as a teenager to becoming a master canvas on Ink Master ? 🖤🎤 In this episode, Terr Lane—better known as Inked Vanity —shares her wild tattoo journey, from her very first ink (done by a guy named Roach!) to enduring 35 hours of tattooing under the bright lights of reality TV. She opens up about the best and worst tattoo experiences, the lessons learned along the way, and how she built Inked Vanity Clothing into an intern...

Mar 17, 2025•19 min•Season 2Ep. 33

How AI is Helping Tattoo Shops Book More Clients (Instantly!)

🎨 Tattoo shop owners—are you missing out on clients because of missed calls and slow responses? Studies show 81% of calls to tattoo shops go unanswered , and by the time you respond, your potential client has already booked somewhere else. 💡 Meet ClothesBot —the AI-powered assistant that automates client booking, answers FAQs, and follows up instantly , helping tattoo shops book hundreds of consultations on autopilot. 🔹 In this episode, we cover: ✔️ Why tattoo shops lose clients to slow respo...

Mar 05, 2025•56 min•Season 2Ep. 32

The Tattoo Client Chronicles: Laura

In this episode, Laura shares her journey through the tattoo world—from her first piece at 19 to finding the right artist who truly connects with her. She dives into the importance of shop atmosphere, building relationships with artists, and even some unexpected (and uncomfortable) experiences along the way. Whether you’re heavily tattooed or just starting out, this episode offers valuable insights into what makes a great tattoo experience.

Feb 23, 2025•22 min•Season 2Ep. 31

Scaling Tattoo Shop Ads: The Secret to Limitless Growth

🚀 How to Scale Your Tattoo Shop Ads Like a Pro! Running ads is one thing—scaling them is another. If you’re spending money on Facebook, Instagram, or Google ads but not seeing the explosive growth you expected, this episode is for you! In this episode of The Tattoo Marketing Podcast , we break down: ✔️ Why most shops fail at scaling their ads (and how to fix it) ✔️ The right way to increase your ad budget without wasting money ✔️ The secret behind high-performing tattoo shop ads ✔️ How successf...

Feb 17, 2025•23 min•Season 2Ep. 30

What Are The BEST Tattoo Advertising Secrets To Scale Ads Successfully?

Discover the ultimate tattoo advertising secrets to take your business to the next level. In this video, we'll reveal the best strategies to scale your ads successfully and reach a wider audience. Learn how to create effective ad campaigns, increase your online presence, and drive more sales. Whether you're a tattoo artist, studio owner, or industry enthusiast, this video is packed with valuable insights and tips to help you succeed in the competitive world of tattoo advertising. Get ready to gr...

Feb 07, 2025•25 min•Ep. 30

The Tattoo Client Chronicles: The Art of Finding the Right Tattoo Artist

Chris Bailey shares his tattoo journey—from his first ink inspired by his bandmates to the lessons learned from great (and not-so-great) experiences in the chair. We dive into the importance of artist-client collaboration, the impact of shop atmosphere, and why social media plays a huge role in finding the perfect artist. Plus, a cautionary tale about getting tattooed while hungover! 🎙️ #TattooClientChronicles

Feb 02, 2025•18 min•Season 2Ep. 29

Why Good Tattoos Aren’t Enough Anymore: The Missing Piece in Most Tattoo Shops

Most tattoo shops focus on great art, but is that enough to stay competitive? In this episode, Alex Gonzalez, co-owner of Electric Expressions, shares how his background in Harley-Davidson sales and customer service transformed his shop’s success. We dive into why sales isn’t a dirty word, how client communication can make or break a shop, and the key strategies every tattoo artist should adopt to keep their books full. If you want to future-proof your shop, this is a must-listen!

Jan 31, 2025•46 min•Season 2Ep. 28

The Tattoo Client Chronicles: Tasha

Are you struggling to attract more tattoo clients? 🤔 This video is your ultimate guide to “getting more tattoo clients” by focusing on the power of client relationships! 💉✨ Discover practical tips to enhance your customer service, build trust, and create a loyal client base. Whether you’re new in the industry or looking to grow your tattoo business, these strategies will help you treat your clients right and keep them coming back for more! In this video, you’ll learn: ✔️ The do’s and don’ts of...

Jan 24, 2025•21 min•Season 2Ep. 27

Buy Back Your Time and Grow Your Tattoo Shop

Are you wearing every hat in your tattoo shop—artist, manager, marketer, and janitor? In this episode, we uncover why trying to do it all is the biggest obstacle to your shop’s growth. Learn actionable strategies to delegate tasks, focus on high-leverage activities, and reclaim your time to do what you love most: tattooing!

Jan 20, 2025•21 min•Season 2Ep. 26

The Tattoo Shop Killer: Single Channel Risk (And How to Beat It)

Are you relying on just one way to bring clients into your tattoo shop? In this episode, we break down the dangers of single channel risk —whether it’s word of mouth, Facebook ads, or any other single source—and how it could be costing your business big. Learn actionable strategies to diversify your marketing, attract more clients, and protect your shop from future downturns. Don’t put all your eggs in one basket—tune in now!

Jan 19, 2025•19 min•Season 2Ep. 25

How to Avoid the Reputation Pitfall That Can Kill Your Tattoo Shop

In this episode of The Tattoo Marketing Podcast , Jesse Drach, owner of Ink-Link Marketing, breaks down why word of mouth is still the most powerful tool for growing a tattoo shop. Learn actionable tips to amplify positive client experiences, avoid the dangers of a bad reputation, and set up your shop for long-term success. Whether it’s starting a referral program, automating client follow-ups, or mastering the art of client feedback, Jesse shares proven strategies that help tattoo shops thrive....

Jan 13, 2025•34 min•Season 2Ep. 24

Tattoo Tips & Success: Ray Wiggins Shares His Journey & New Book

Join us as we dive into the world of tattooing with Ray Wiggins, aka XRay Vizionz. In this episode, Ray shares his 16-year journey as a tattoo artist, the role of mentors in shaping his craft, and how he’s helping the next generation with his groundbreaking book Make It Pop. Whether you’re an artist looking to grow or a shop owner navigating the industry, this conversation is packed with insights to elevate your tattoo career.

Jan 06, 2025•45 min•Ep. 20

Reputation Rules: Mastering Word of Mouth to Fill Your Tattoo Shop

Word of mouth is the lifeblood of any tattoo shop—but are you really making the most of it? In this episode, Jesse Drach, owner of Ink-Link Marketing, dives deep into why word of mouth is king for tattoo shops, how to harness its power to attract more clients, and what happens when your shop’s reputation takes a hit. From easy-to-implement strategies like automating follow-ups and gathering client testimonials to setting up game-changing referral programs, this episode is packed with actionable ...

Dec 30, 2024•34 min•Ep. 24

Tattoo Shop CRMs: The Secret to Never Missing a Client

Struggling to keep up with DMs, emails, and client requests? In this episode of Tattoo Shop Mastery: The Business Behind the Ink , we uncover the power of CRMs (Client Relationship Managers) and why they’re a must-have for every tattoo shop. Learn how to streamline communication, prevent clients from falling through the cracks, and boost your shop’s reputation—all while saving time and maximizing profits. Don’t let poor communication cost you thousands in missed opportunities. Tune in and take y...

Dec 16, 2024•20 min•Season 2Ep. 23

Why Your Tattoo Shop's Facebook/IG Ads Aren’t Working (And How to Fix Them)

Are your Facebook and Instagram ads failing to deliver results? In this episode of The Tattoo Marketing Podcast , we uncover why designing ads based on your preferences instead of your audience's can hurt your success. Learn the power of split testing, how "ugly ads" can outperform polished ones, and why understanding your audience’s behavior is key to creating high-converting campaigns. Packed with actionable tips and real-world examples, this episode is a must-listen for anyone running or cons...

Dec 10, 2024•15 min•Season 2Ep. 22

How Revolt Tattoo Thrives While Other Shops Struggle | Exclusive Interview with Co-Owner Michael Smith

We sat down with Michael Smith, co-owner of Revolt Tattoo, to discuss how they've been able to expand and open new locations—even as other tattoo shops struggle to keep their artists booked. Discover the secrets behind Revolt's success in a challenging industry, and gain valuable insights into growing a tattoo business. If you're a shop owner or tattoo lover, you won't want to miss this!

Oct 14, 2024•1 hr 1 min•Season 2Ep. 21

Fill Your Chairs: The Ultimate Guide to GoogleAds for Tattoo Shops

Are you a tattoo shop owner looking to boost your shop’s client base and keep your artists fully booked going into slow season? Join our exclusive online seminar, where we'll reveal the secrets to using Google Ads to get more clients to your shop!

Sep 09, 2024•1 hr 8 min•Season 2Ep. 20

Following Your Dreams Of Tattooing w/ Jovan Santopietro

We sit down with tattoo artist Jovan Santopietro and talk about what it was like trying to become a tattoo artist as a female 20 years ago, the importance of not giving up on your dreams, and how to set yourself up for success in the tattoo industry

Aug 19, 2024•43 min•Season 2Ep. 19

Systems, Sales, and SOPs w/ Steven Johns

Steven Johns is a tattoo artist with 20 years of experience and focused on how sales, marketing, and having SOPs (Standard Operating Procedures) in place to maximize his career in tattooing

Aug 01, 2024•53 min•Season 2Ep. 18

The Sales Side Of Tattooing

If you're a tattoo shop owner or artist, you eat what you kill. Meaning, you're responsible for your clients and how much you make. This technically makes you a commission based sales person. Learning a little about sales will drastically help your tattooing career! We talk about why sales isn't what you think, the 101's of sales, and how NOT to be like a used care sales man.

Jul 15, 2024•28 min•Season 2Ep. 17

How to use organic marketing to stay booked out w/ guest Ryan Roi

Join us as we explore the power of organic marketing for tattoo shop owners with special guest Ryan Roi. Discover practical strategies and expert insights on leveraging organic methods to consistently attract new clients and keep your appointment book full. From building a strong online presence to cultivating a loyal customer base, this episode will provide essential tips for using organic marketing to thrive in the tattoo industry. Tune in and learn how to strategically grow your business with...

Jun 19, 2024•1 hr 20 min•Season 2Ep. 16
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