Ink Medicine: Recent Episodes
Micah Riot
A podcast about all things tattoo culture from a human interest perspective. Music by Black Lions Beatz
Ali is the creator of the Instagram community @jews.withtattoos
After starting the page she quickly gained a following, and as people started requesting guidance on finding Jewish tattoo artists, she created a spreadsheet to help artists and clients connect. You can find that spreadsheet linked to the above mentioned Instagram page, Jews With Tattoos (https://www.instagram.com/jews.withtattoos/)
I met Ali briefly last fall when she reached out wanting to highlight me as a tattoo artist and a fellow jew. At the time I wasn't ready to be highlighted. But recently I decided I wanted to ask her to be on Ink Medicine and tell my audience about her journey as a tattoo collector and an online activist.
You can find Ali on Jews.WithTattoos, also on https://www.instagram.com/thatjewishfeminist/
And on Tik Tok as That Jewish Feminist where she talks about ... being a Jewish Feminist. And other important things we don't talk about enough.
All of the tattoo artists Ali mentions linked below:
https://www.instagram.com/kat.o.tat Kat, (Boston area)
https://www.instagram.com/beastlyflowers Aaliyah (Muslim identified artist, in case you're looking for one, based in Boston area)
https://www.instagram.com/sarahroseink Sarah (Boston area)
https://www.instagram.com/ant_grayce Ant (specializes in tricky spots like butt cheeks) (Philly, but travels)
https://www.instagram.com/razzoukwassim Razzouk, (based in Israel)
You can connect with me, Micah Riot, as well as see my tattoo art on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/micahriot/
Micah's website is www.micahriot.com
The podcast is hosted on Buzzsprout but truly lives in the heart of Micah's website at:
https://www.micahriot.com/ink-medicine-podcast/
One of the perks of being a tattoo artist is the freedom of movement one can take advantage of. There are shops everywhere these days. Conceivably, that means that as a tattooist you can go anywhere and temporarily live and work there. I've known of people who didn't live in any one place but just continuously went from guest spot to guest spot for years.
Besides the pleasure of travel, such as discovering new places and people, there is the added bonus of exposure. The more people you meet, the more connections you make, and in more communities, the better for your overall reach.
And that sounds great.
However, for me… it has mostly felt a bit more tedious than it was worth... until now.
Last week I guested at Butterfat Studios (https://www.butterfatstudios.com/) and it was a dream come true.
Listen to me recount my other guest spot experiences and why this one was my most successful. Smile as I gush about the amazing legendary Esther Garcia whom I got to watch work. And who I've long admired for her experimentations in color theory specifically for expanding the options for deeper toned folks.
You can connect with me, Micah Riot, as well as see my tattoo art on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/micahriot/
Micah's website is www.micahriot.com
The podcast is hosted on Buzzsprout but truly lives in the heart of Micah's website at:
https://www.micahriot.com/ink-medicine-podcast/
How do I go and tattoo when I feel meh?
Because I, and many of us, maybe all of us feel "meh" a lot in the face of responsibility. You can love your job very much, have it be the perfect fit for you and still feel like doing nothing when you wake up.
So how do I get over the malaise and do it anyway? How do I output creatively when I feel empty?
I will tell you.
You can connect with me, Micah Riot, as well as see my tattoo art on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/micahriot/
Micah's website is www.micahriot.com
The podcast is hosted on Buzzsprout but truly lives in the heart of Micah's website at:
https://www.micahriot.com/ink-medicine-podcast/
I met Skeeter Barker at her queer community yoga classes in the Mission circa 2007 or 8, and fell in love with her immediately. A strong, heavily tattooed, older butch in loose fitting cargo shorts and tank, with sparkling eyes, glasses, a British accent, and a gentle yet firm style of teaching, she was unlike any other yoga teacher I'd met before. And being in her classes made me want to keep doing yoga. So I did.
Over the years we found other things in common, such as the leather community, a love of retreats... and a bunch of years ago Skeeter found her way to my tattoo table and never left.
For Ink Medicine I spoke with Skeeter about ... everything. Identity and community, and tattoos, and queer history. At 62 she knows a thing or two about being a dyke and a leather daddy, since she has been out in the scene for more than forty years. I suppose some would call her a queer elder.
If you'd like a visual treat, and you love leather dyke culture, find your way to a viewing of the Michelle Handeman documentary BloodSisters: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BloodSisters_(1995_film)
Skeeter happens to be one of the main people in it.
You can connect with me, Micah Riot, as well as see my tattoo art on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/micahriot/
Micah's website is www.micahriot.com
The podcast is hosted on Buzzsprout but truly lives in the heart of Micah's website at:
https://www.micahriot.com/ink-medicine-podcast/
Sit with me while I admit a deep dark little tattoo artist secret. I have feelings about it when my long term clients go to someone else.
I don't know if this term has been used before, but I say Polytattery refers to clients getting work done by several tattoo artists in the same time period.
It can be awkward for us both if you don't say anything ahead of time. Or if you come back with a new piece by someone else and ask me to touch it up for you.
Hear me wrestle with my own ego and admit to you what feels best and what doesn't.
And then... hear the tale that has defined my last week of existence. It does have to do with dentistry, but it's not graphic.
You can connect with me, Micah Riot, as well as see my tattoo art on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/micahriot/
Micah's website is www.micahriot.com
The podcast is hosted on Buzzsprout but truly lives in the heart of Micah's website at:
https://www.micahriot.com/ink-medicine-podcast/
White ink has been around as long as I have been tattooing, but I am getting way more questions about it in the last few years than ever before.
In this episode I will answer all of the most frequently asked questions I get about white ink tattoos: how white ink works, why people may want to get them, other applications of white ink in tattoo art, including white outline tattoos, who they are best for, how they age and more.
If you've been curious about white ink, I am so glad you found your way to this episode.
You can connect with me, Micah Riot, as well as see my tattoo art on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/micahriot/
Micah's website is www.micahriot.com
The podcast is hosted on Buzzsprout but truly lives in the heart of Micah's website at:
https://www.micahriot.com/ink-medicine-podcast/
Ayden Love is a total Love.
I met Ayden in my tattooing studio when a good friend of mine brought her to get tattooed by me. I put a matching set of tattoos on the two of them. One for "Daddy" and one for "babygirl".
And if you know me, you know how happy that made me.
I love ritual. I love relationships. I love overt power exchange. I love tattoos.
I asked Ayden to come on the podcast and tell me about their journey. And in the process we touched upon as much kink as I myself could handle on this here public forum, as well as ritualistic tattooing. We also talked about Ayden's dislike of eggs and therefore most breakfast dishes, how she got her formidable social media following while not being all that into social media, some of our favorite shows, and I even got some tips on guest spotting. And their small joy at the end of the episode gave me all sorts of happy fuzzy sensory memories.
Ayden works out of their own private studio in Hillsborough, NC, and can be easily found on their website: http://www.thetinyfire.com/
or on instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/the_tinyfire/
You can connect with me, Micah Riot, as well as see my tattoo art on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/micahriot/
Micah's website is www.micahriot.com
The podcast is hosted on Buzzsprout but truly lives in the heart of Micah's website at:
https://www.micahriot.com/ink-medicine-podcast/
This episode is equally meant for those who want to know the nitty gritty of tattoo healing and care and those who just like to hear me drone on in the background.
Here I describe both, first, what I call the old school traditional way of caring for a fresh tattoo and second, the wet method.
I get into the products I like to have my clients use, including a deep dive into what Aquafor actually is and how it works so well, since it's not technically "moistizuring".
I talk a lot about tegaderm/saniderm and what a reaction to these convenient first aid plastic films could look like.
This episode is a bit nerdy, kinda long, and hopefully informative.
Enjoy. You can find links to all of the products I talk about on my website's tattoo care section:
https://www.micahriot.com/tattoo-care-instructions/
You can connect with me, Micah Riot, as well as see my tattoo art on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/micahriot/
Micah's website is www.micahriot.com
The podcast is hosted on Buzzsprout but truly lives in the heart of Micah's website at:
https://www.micahriot.com/ink-medicine-podcast/
This episode is the result of my recent excitement about a few tattoos I've put my whole soul into.
I've been looking for my personal tattoo style for so long, and considering that maybe I never need to find a niche, that doing it all was my thing (not unlike Beyoncé), that I was a little astounded when I realized that doing "weird" detailed color work felt like the work was coming directly from my soul.
I don't have a word for this yet, but I do know the feeling. These are pieces that come without many or even any references from the client. These are pieces that come from great trust between us. From connection, and mutual holding.
This episode details my thoughts about personal tattoo style, and my ongoing process around this concept. There is more to say, perhaps another time. But I hope you do enjoy this one.
And please! Leave a rating and review. I would love that so hard.
You can connect with me, Micah Riot, as well as see my tattoo art on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/micahriot/
Micah's website is www.micahriot.com
The podcast is hosted on Buzzsprout but truly lives in the heart of Micah's website at:
https://www.micahriot.com/ink-medicine-podcast/
I started this podcast to show off the absolute gems of humans I get to tattoo and interact with on a regular basis. I am a very very very lucky person.
Karin is one of those people. I have been tattooing big gorgeous detailed artful realistic flowers on her for about two years. Our conversations range from the personal/political to the intimately personal, to food, to clothes, but mostly how to be a decent person in this world.
In this interview we talk about what being basic means, and also alternative, how hard it is for those of us raised with little attention to our needs to stand out as adults, to receive attention. I ask Karin why she, at fifty, decided to start covering her body with big gorgeous florals, how it has changed her self perception, and also what other parts of life have been making her happy lately.
We are sweet and funny and quippy, and it will give your good vibes if you listen in.
You can connect with me, Micah Riot, as well as see my tattoo art on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/micahriot/
Micah's website is www.micahriot.com
The podcast is hosted on Buzzsprout but truly lives in the heart of Micah's website at:
https://www.micahriot.com/ink-medicine-podcast/
For me, turning the big 4-0 comes with its share of introspection.
But today's episode is rather the other side of the moon (or the coin) of last week's episode, "Ep. 65: A Few, Namely Five, Reasons I Love Being A Tattoo Artist".
Today I tell you five reasons being a self employed tattoo artist can be challenging. I'd say these are the most annoying things about it for me.
In short...
1. Charging people money!
2. email and consults at that awkward time, before the client and I develop trust.
3. not being able to read the client's mind
4. no logistical safety net, no PTO etc
5. taxes
but first... Lulu becomes the unexpected essence of opulence, thanks to a serendipitous perfume spill.
Enjoy!
You can connect with me, Micah Riot, as well as see my tattoo art on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/micahriot/
Micah's website is www.micahriot.com
The podcast is hosted on Buzzsprout but truly lives in the heart of Micah's website at:
https://www.micahriot.com/ink-medicine-podcast/
I pushed through my hormonal sh*tstorm to come at you with some gratitude. Namely five reasons I love being a tattoo artist.
For the full discussion listen of course, and for the short summary peep below:
1. The connections/conversations with my clients.
2. Self determined schedule.
3. Honing my craft, every day into forever.
4. I get to create the environment for myself and my clients.
5. Being a part of a culture that touches most of humanity.
Come back next week and maybe I will talk about reasons this job is hard.
In this episode I mention a long admired by me tattoo artist, Esther Garcia:
https://www.butterfatstudios.com/
You can connect with me, Micah Riot, as well as see my tattoo art on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/micahriot/
Micah's website is www.micahriot.com
The podcast is hosted on Buzzsprout but truly lives in the heart of Micah's website at:
https://www.micahriot.com/ink-medicine-podcast/
Have you ever felt the stir of a familiar yet unplaceable memory, or the pull of a connection that transcends your current life? Well, strap in, because we're embarking on an odyssey into past life regression hypnosis, just a little skill I picked up in the past few weeks.
I will tell you what Past Life Regression is, how it can help a human discover more about their journey, and have a richer more satisfying experience in their current life. AND how it could relate to getting and (giving) tattoos.
Don't worry, hypnosis isn't what you think it is. And neither is this therapeutic modality. Past life regression can't hurt you.
Listen in, and if you'd like to try it, I am still in need of more practice sessions before I receive my practitioner's certification. Find me on the socials or on e-mail.
Micahtattoos (at) gmail .
Until soon, friends.
You can connect with me, Micah Riot, as well as see my tattoo art on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/micahriot/
Micah's website is www.micahriot.com
The podcast is hosted on Buzzsprout but truly lives in the heart of Micah's website at:
https://www.micahriot.com/ink-medicine-podcast/
The world of queer tattoo artists is pretty small; made smaller by the internet.
From starting to follow her on IG, I have always felt a kinship with Caitlin Cordell, as her statements -- political and social, in instagram stories and captions always felt resonant to me. And her tattoo art is captivating.
The thing I didn't know about Caitlin is how deeply she cares about the young people. Having worked in social work for almost her entire adult life up until very recently, she transitioned to tattooing a lot more while still keeping a lot of her energy tied up in a local alternative school. Speaking of local, Caitlin and her (very gay) partner live in Twisp, WA, which is a small rural town.
Together we decided that she is clearly one of the village witches and aunties to the young ones, and a niece to the elders. I was struck by how community oriented this beautiful human is. Many of us are, but Caitlin takes it to another level.
Our conversation was flowing, fun, snappy, full of laughter and beautiful imagery we conjured together. It's an honor to get to imagine a better world with a kindred spirit.
Listen in and then check out Caitlin's fine line black and grey plant and animal tattoos, which are delicate and gorgeous.
Find Caitlin on instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/caitlincordell23/
You can connect with me, Micah Riot, as well as see my tattoo art on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/micahriot/
Micah's website is www.micahriot.com
The podcast is hosted on Buzzsprout but truly lives in the heart of Micah's website at:
https://www.micahriot.com/ink-medicine-podcast/
I've found that in the face of overwhelming global chaos, it's the small, steadfast beacons in our lives that offer us much-needed stability.
As the world is crumbling around us, as people are being brutally murdered in several genocides in several countries, I find myself pretty f'n down. Sometimes I stop and breathe in the middle of a freak out, and other times I distract myself with my favorite humans.
One of whom is my apprentice Sayler McBean. My regular clients and friends who have known me for years know that I've worked on my own in a private studio for the last decade. I was in no hurry to bring someone else into my space and start to call it "ours." But Sayler came along and it was an easy yes. As we got ready, and closer to the time of her moving here I wondered how it would feel to share space.
I interviewed her on the podcast back in early October, and it has now been five months since we started this process, and six weeks since she started tattooing.
Folks keep asking me how it's going and I am happy to report, it's been fantastic.
But please ... have a listen.
Find Sayler at:
https://www.instagram.com/doomfae/
You can connect with me, Micah Riot, as well as see my tattoo art on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/micahriot/
Micah's website is www.micahriot.com
The podcast is hosted on Buzzsprout but truly lives in the heart of Micah's website at:
https://www.micahriot.com/ink-medicine-podcast/
Caitlin Hackett is a soft spoken (though not shy), very very talented, freshly minted tattoo artist at Old Crow Tattoo in Oakland, CA, who has already lived a whole career in the tough world of fine art. Life brought changes, as it does, and Caitlin moved into learning how to tattoo in early 2023.
I met Caitlin last year at her shop where she was starting her apprenticeship while I went in to get tattooed by the owner, Hannah Wolf. I invited her on the podcast to talk about what she left behind, how she is making the transition and what her vision of the future is.
Besides putting needle to skin, Caitlin is a big D&D person. She loves to build worlds for people who will love playing with them. She loves to tell stories collaboratively, and also cook vegan food. At one point she was fostering fourteen kittens at once.
Listen to this charming human and me. You will learn so many delightful things.
Find Caitlin Hackett on:
IG:
https://www.instagram.com/caitlin_hackett/
and on her website:
https://www.caitlinhackett.com/
You can connect with me, Micah Riot, as well as see my tattoo art on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/micahriot/
Micah's website is www.micahriot.com
The podcast is hosted on Buzzsprout but truly lives in the heart of Micah's website at:
https://www.micahriot.com/ink-medicine-podcast/
Don't forget to stop and smell the puppies.
Just a little ramble on the topic of appreciating the journey, not just the destination.
Slower, my friend.
You can connect with me, Micah Riot, as well as see my tattoo art on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/micahriot/
Micah's website is www.micahriot.com
The podcast is hosted on Buzzsprout but truly lives in the heart of Micah's website at:
https://www.micahriot.com/ink-medicine-podcast/
When I saw Bella's e-mail I felt a sparkle.
About a month later she entered the studio for our in- person consultation and color test. Ten minutes in I knew we would become friends.
Sometimes people have just the sense of humor that feels like a warm steamy shower on a cool day, and quirks you immediately adore. Add some Eastern European roots for what feels like a solid and somewhat unique thread of relating, and queerness, of course. Oh, and also she is just brilliant. And one of my favorite things on humans are our brains.
Listen to us discuss being Eastern European, and queer, and her talking about also being Black. Bella used to do hair and then went to school, started as pre-med and became a chemist and is now developing drugs and making such things as vaccines. We had a great conversation about the Covid vaccine and what scientists would like you to know.
This conversation is had with soothing voices and is very, actually, comforting. Enjoy!
You can connect with me, Micah Riot, as well as see my tattoo art on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/micahriot/
Micah's website is www.micahriot.com
The podcast is hosted on Buzzsprout but truly lives in the heart of Micah's website at:
https://www.micahriot.com/ink-medicine-podcast/
Are you a reader? I hope so. This episode is all about every book I read in 2023. There were 22 of them and here are my mini reviews.
I tell you details. Whether I read the book or listened to it, how I found it, whether I loved it or left it.
There was a lot of poignant coming of age novels with queer POC female protagonists, a lot of memoirs, mostly by Black folks, but not only, a few classics, a few super new releases. There was young adult fiction and a bit of sci fi thrown in. I hit every genre as long as I hear good things often enough from enough brilliant people.
Enjoy, and tell me what you loved reading this year. I am on to my reading list of 2024 and I am stoked about what's on it.
You can connect with me, Micah Riot, as well as see my tattoo art on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/micahriot/
Micah's website is www.micahriot.com
The podcast is hosted on Buzzsprout but truly lives in the heart of Micah's website at:
https://www.micahriot.com/ink-medicine-podcast/
A little personal update for you, since the start to my year has been a little frazzled with a lack of my usual routine due to too many fun plans.
In this episode I talk about my early year travels and then some hopes for the coming year: Sayler's apprenticeship, my reading plans, my big birthday, my sticker making career, and my wishes to get better with time management and tidying.
Next week look out for my "22 in 2023" reading list as a podcast episode.
You can connect with me, Micah Riot, as well as see my tattoo art on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/micahriot/
Micah's website is www.micahriot.com
The podcast is hosted on Buzzsprout but truly lives in the heart of Micah's website at:
https://www.micahriot.com/ink-medicine-podcast/
As the year wraps up I like to look back upon it with grateful eyes. I like to look back through the photos in my phone (piling up in the tens of thousands), and remember the people I have met and the work I did on most of the new people I'd met.
I like to appreciate all of the ways in which this year was sweet to me, all the things that happened that brought me peace and joy and contentment.
This is how I like to close out every calendar year.
I took some notes as I was thinking about this episode and wanting to share this practice with y'all, and I ended up with fifteen points I wanted to talk about.
From meeting those amazing new people to starting to make retro gay pony stickers, going to Ireland to see a friend I haven't seen in twenty years, mentoring young talent, making this weekly podcast, hitting (sorta) my reading and gym goals, tune in and listen to me rejoice in these measurable wins, and then make your own list and share it with your people (and me too, please).
You can connect with me, Micah Riot, as well as see my tattoo art on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/micahriot/
Micah's website is www.micahriot.com
The podcast is hosted on Buzzsprout but truly lives in the heart of Micah's website at:
https://www.micahriot.com/ink-medicine-podcast/
This is Ink Medicine's second to last episode of the year!
And I interview Amy Zager. I've been hearing her name and seeing her work for years, and finally we meet.
Amy does incredibly bright and colorful and dynamic work (think Lisa Frank in the 90's!). I see her work on my clients and I see my clients in her chair. We have complimentary styles that a lot of people who like my work also like her work in vice versa.
What she does is commonly called watercolor, but I think it's time for us to develop new language to talk about tattoo styles that don't fit into the traditional norms.
Amy is a pansexual femme, a mom, an award-winning artist. She was on Best Ink Season 3 back in the day and that's kind of what jump started her career. You'll hear us talking about it on the pod.
We talk shop and industry gossip a little, and I really hope you enjoy our conversation.
Follow Amy on Instagram at:
https://www.instagram.com/painterlyfiend/
or find her on her website:
https://www.amyzager.com/
You can connect with me, Micah Riot, as well as see my tattoo art on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/micahriot/
Micah's website is www.micahriot.com
The podcast is hosted on Buzzsprout but truly lives in the heart of Micah's website at:
https://www.micahriot.com/ink-medicine-podcast/
If you have ever wished to know more about me, Micah Riot, your wishes have come true. My best friend of fifteen years, Andi Smiles, takes over the podcast, hosts this episode and interviews me for a change.
And honestly y'all, it was one of my very favorite nights in recent memory. It's intense and beautiful to hear your best friend tell you how they see you, especially when you believe them.
I got a chance to talk about how I perceive tattooing (as magic), how I love my clients (from the start), how I've grown as a tattooist and a business owner, and we reminisce about our early years as friends.
I very much almost full on cried about seven times in this one hour.
I love Andi and y'all will too after listening to this episode. I'd love it if you did.
And please subscribe, review, rate, if you love me back.
You can connect with me, Micah Riot, as well as see my tattoo art on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/micahriot/
Micah's website is www.micahriot.com
The podcast is hosted on Buzzsprout but truly lives in the heart of Micah's website at:
https://www.micahriot.com/ink-medicine-podcast/
This is the second half of the best ever conversation I had with James-Olivia Chu Hillman, whom I had the absolute honor to meet through the wild ass internet.
They share with me how they became a personal trainer having never worked out before, how they feel about beauty and aging, and aging beauty; how they want to transform their body of tattoo work, we talk about mentorship, we tell each other raw powerful vulnerable stories, and then we let you in on it all.
Whether James-Olivia is one of your mentors, teachers, space holders or not, this sharing is not to be missed.
To find James-Olivia Chu Hillman online, go to
https://inquisitivehuman.com/
or to instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/inquisitive_human/
You can connect with me, Micah Riot, as well as see my tattoo art on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/micahriot/
Micah's website is www.micahriot.com
The podcast is hosted on Buzzsprout but truly lives in the heart of Micah's website at:
https://www.micahriot.com/ink-medicine-podcast/
Here we are. In Episode 52, on just about the one year anniversary of Ink Medicine Podcast, when I get the chance to interview one of my spiritual mentors about gender as fruit, spicy food and how it relates to being kinky, wearing strap-ons, being cerebral vs. being embodied, identity labels and various perspectives on them, being a beautiful bouquet, perceptions of beauty especially as we age, a bit on polyamory and a bit on sex work, and seriously.... did I think we would have a conversation this rich? I did actually.
But did I think it would be appropriate for the public platform that a podcast generally is? Well sure. But there were questions.
This episode is as honest as can be. James-Olivia answers all of my straight forward questions with absolute presence, thoughtfulness, depth and humor.
And this is only Part I.
To find James-Olivia Chu Hillman online, go to
https://inquisitivehuman.com/
or to instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/inquisitive_human/
You can connect with me, Micah Riot, as well as see my tattoo art on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/micahriot/
Micah's website is www.micahriot.com
The podcast is hosted on Buzzsprout but truly lives in the heart of Micah's website at:
https://www.micahriot.com/ink-medicine-podcast/
Happy Anniversary to me and Mama Aya!
In November of 2021 I flew to Tulum, Mexico to have one of the most profound experiences of my life.
I had been learning about Ayahuasca and yearning to drink her medicine for a decade by that point. I wanted to have my first experience and I knew that it had to find me. I had to be patient.
In late September of that year a friend suggested I join the retreat she was going on.
Six weeks later I was on an airplane.
Spoiler alert: It was everything I needed, wanted, and more. In the full sense.
If you are curious about Ayahuasca, come and listen. If you are curious about my spiritual growth , come on in.
Thank you for being here.
You can connect with me, Micah Riot, as well as see my tattoo art on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/micahriot/
Micah's website is www.micahriot.com
The podcast is hosted on Buzzsprout but truly lives in the heart of Micah's website at:
https://www.micahriot.com/ink-medicine-podcast/
From early shop flash days to custom work only and currently back to flash, I am staying with my own stuff. I love to do pieces that span the body, take time, and make you love yourself more.
As tattoo artists, and just humans, as everything shifts around us, we have to figure out how to stay afloat. The tattoo industry, social media and economy are all changing and I am here to chat with you about how I am navigating it all.
Choosing to see the challenges as opportunities, I keep on posting on socials, tackling SEO, creating merchandise for craft fairs, and mentoring my apprentice.
We'll discuss the impact of the ever-changing social media landscape on small businesses like mine. Join me as we delve into the art of adaptation, the strategies I've implemented to keep up with these changes, and the importance of maintaining a meaningful connection with you - my wonderfully supportive audience.
And... the podcast is almost one year old! I will have fifty something episodes out by its' birthday. Yay, Ink Medicine!
You can connect with me, Micah Riot, as well as see my tattoo art on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/micahriot/
Micah's website is www.micahriot.com
The podcast is hosted on Buzzsprout but truly lives in the heart of Micah's website at:
https://www.micahriot.com/ink-medicine-podcast/
Our talks took us from the tattoo shop of ten plus years ago, where we created powerful imagery to reflect her biggest losses and loves, through a painful battle with terminal illness, and now, a tireless fight to reunite with her kidnapped son, Zahrar.
Earlier this year I finally reconnected with this dear client and friend, whose indomitable spirit and courage in the face of impossible odds are nothing short of inspiring.
I really wanted to be one of the people to help Serlina Santa-Iglesia tell her story.
This was our first long conversation after years of not being in touch, and I ended up editing out some of the more chatty parts. But I left most of what Serlina shared in. If brushing against death is a topic that's near and dear to your heart, you definitely want to catch this episode. It's a story that needs to be heard.
You can connect with me, Micah Riot, as well as see my tattoo art on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/micahriot/
Micah's website is www.micahriot.com
The podcast is hosted on Buzzsprout but truly lives in the heart of Micah's website at:
https://www.micahriot.com/ink-medicine-podcast/
In this episode I, Micah Riot, talk to you about the profound connections and sense of community forged through the intimate act of tattooing. I can tell you from my own experiences, the bond created during those hours of shared vulnerability, artistic creation, and mutual trust is as indelible as the tattoos themselves.
From the excitement of attending a concert with one of my clients, to the relief of leaning on another client who's an OBGYN during my partner's health scare, these relationships extend far beyond the tattoo shop.
This short episode reminds of the importance of cherishing the connections we form, especially during these challenging times, and reflects the power of human connection.
Thank you for joining me, and I'll catch up with you next week.
You can connect with me, Micah Riot, as well as see my tattoo art on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/micahriot/
Micah's website is www.micahriot.com
The podcast is hosted on Buzzsprout but truly lives in the heart of Micah's website at:
https://www.micahriot.com/ink-medicine-podcast/
Today, I'm presenting you with a conversation with Megan Lowe, a Bay Area dancer, choreographer, performer, aerialist, singer, songwriter, filmmaker, teacher, and administrator of Chinese and Irish descent.
A couple of weeks ago, my partner and I attended a Megan Lowe Dances performance. It was at the ODC Theater and it was called Gathering Pieces of Peace.
There were four mindblowingly skilled dancers, all of mixed -race identity, and the performance was about reckoning with the pieces of your identity, making peace with those pieces.
As a person who is not of mixed -race identity, but an immigrant in a different context here in the US, than I was back where I came from, I can always relate to having your identity be fractured, be scattered, having to gather up the pieces of it.
I was delighted to notice that in Gathering Pieces of Peace there was a thread of conversation about tattoos throughout the entire performance.
When it was over, the friend who invited my partner and I to the performance turned to me and said, Megan would be perfect for your podcast. And I said, I would love that. we got connected and we made it happen and here is our conversation.
Megan and I talk about tattoos of course, but also belonging, identities, community building, relationship creating, and such.
You can find Megan Lowe on her website at:
https://www.meganlowedances.com/
And on Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/mlowedancekitty/
You can connect with me, Micah Riot, as well as see my tattoo art on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/micahriot/
Micah's website is www.micahriot.com
The podcast is hosted on Buzzsprout but truly lives in the heart of Micah's website at:
https://www.micahriot.com/ink-medicine-podcast/
After tattooing for fifteen years, I have noticed that often people feel like their reasons for getting tattooed are somehow less valid than others'. (Or sometimes more valid.) People often feel like they are "uncool" or "dorky" for having their reasons.
I am here to say that we are all just trying to feel at home in our bodies. One way we do that is by putting permanent marks on our skins.
In this episode I compiled nine of the most common reasons I could think of that people get tattooed.
From honoring one's roots to expressing solidarity towards a social justice movement, to just decorating "your temple," they are all good reasons.
I hope that you listen.
You can connect with me, Micah Riot, as well as see my tattoo art on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/micahriot/
Micah's website is www.micahriot.com
The podcast is hosted on Buzzsprout but truly lives in the heart of Micah's website at:
https://www.micahriot.com/ink-medicine-podcast/
Sayler came into my life about a year and a half ago though I'd been hearing her name for much much longer than that.
This fall we are starting the journey of her tattoo apprenticeship and we are both as ready as can be. I've been waiting for her for a while. Well not her exactly... but someone just like her. Curious, layered, brilliant, committed to the human experience and understanding of the fact that we don't just sling ink around here.
If you want to hear the story of how we met and connected, and how I ended up with my very first apprentice, and why her, have a listen.
You can connect with me, Micah Riot, as well as see my tattoo art on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/micahriot/
Micah's website is www.micahriot.com
The podcast is hosted on Buzzsprout but truly lives in the heart of Micah's website at:
https://www.micahriot.com/ink-medicine-podcast/
I've been talking about color tests with my clients because lately I have had a few folks with deeper skin tones wanting colorful abstract pieces and a few with autoimmune conditions who wanted to dip just a toe into the experience of getting tattooed to see how their skin would react.
Listen in if you want to know why someone might want a color test, how I do them, what I look for when the skin has healed and how much they cost (spoiler alert, currently nothing).
Also, I mention my Ridwell subscription. I don't get anything for mentioning it. I am just an adult with trash anxiety and get very excited about my extra garbage service. If you have trash anxiety too, have a listen.
https://www.ridwell.com/
You can connect with me, Micah Riot, as well as see my tattoo art on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/micahriot/
Micah's website is www.micahriot.com
The podcast is hosted on Buzzsprout but truly lives in the heart of Micah's website at:
https://www.micahriot.com/ink-medicine-podcast/
Shannon Home (doesn't she sound so cozy?) creates illustrative blackwork tattoos for the odd and peculiar, with a style that lands at the intersection of fairy tales and ghost stories. Her work is mostly, almost entirely black ink. It is intricate, contrasting, stark, and absolutely stunning.
Shannon and I connected on Instagram when I randomly came upon her feed and fell in love with her work. After I convinced her my intentions were pure, she got truly excited about being a part of this project, Ink Medicine Podcast.
This is a beautiful snapshot of another tattooer, an artist, a woman who truly loves what she does. And who also recognizes how aware one has to be to do this work well; and how difficult it is to be both, at once, the holder of our clients' life stories and the needle.
If you are in Denver or making a trip there, if you are odd and peculiar, and perhaps you'd like to be decorated darkly, Shannon is your person.
Shannon Home resides in Denver, Colorado, with her partner and two kids.
Shannon's art can be found on instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/bramblesinblack/
On her website:
https://www.bramblesinblack.com/
And also on the website of her beloved shop, All Sacred:
https://allsacred.com/shannon-home/
You can connect with me, Micah Riot, as well as see my tattoo art on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/micahriot/
Micah's website is www.micahriot.com
The podcast is hosted on Buzzsprout but truly lives in the heart of Micah's website at:
https://www.micahriot.com/ink-medicine-podcast/
A couple of weeks ago I was invited to reconsider something in the industry I always took as a given. A new friend was telling me about her fabulous tattoo artist, someone I'd like to see as well and mentioned that the artist does not take tips. I was surprised, then thoughtful, then in action.
Effective immediately I no longer accept tips for my work.
I think it's important to process such a drastic decision out loud on the podcast with y'all, while at the same time encouraging you to tip your artist if they haven't, like me, decided to no longer accept tips.
Listen in to understand how I am navigating this shift in the daily dealings of my work, and to heed my advice to those looking to show appreciation for their artists in creative and meaningful ways.
You can connect with me, Micah Riot, as well as see my tattoo art on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/micahriot/
Micah's website is www.micahriot.com
The podcast is hosted on Buzzsprout but truly lives in the heart of Micah's website at:
https://www.micahriot.com/ink-medicine-podcast/
Tristan Crane would like to be a heavily tattooed person. They would love to have a collection of tattoos from all of their favorite queer iconic tattooists all around the globe, but besides money and time Tristan is currently limited by a chronic auto immune condition. Psoriasis affects about 125 million people world wide, or about 2 to 3 percent of the population. It can show up in different ways, but often affects one's joints and skin, appearing as big scaly painful itchy patches all over one's body. Because it often shows up on skin that's been injured, getting tattooed becomes tricky for someone affected with this condition.
How does one live with something so uncomfortable and also so very visible?
And how do you get tattooed not being sure of what healing would look like or what would happen afterwards?
Tristan Crane speaks to all of these topics and more. We dive in to everything from the social stigmas of having a skin condition to technicalities of tattooing, to self acceptance and love, to lifestyle choices.
Living with a chronic illness can be a challenge. But it sure does help when we talk about it openly and honestly.
You can find Tristan Crane, their gorgeous photography, etc at:
https://www.tristancrane.com/
Their Queer Portraits Here project is:
https://hereportraits.com/
You can connect with me, Micah Riot, as well as see my tattoo art on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/micahriot/
Micah's website is www.micahriot.com
The podcast is hosted on Buzzsprout but truly lives in the heart of Micah's website at:
https://www.micahriot.com/ink-medicine-podcast/
I haven't done one of these in a little while so I thought I would, since my next interview just isn't ready for your ears yet!
On this episode I will:
1. celebrate my first ever giveaway, share the reviews that won (incidentally) and what those folks wish to have as their prizes.
2. give you a little preview of what's to come this fall on the Pod.
3. tell you about my big news briefly.
4. share about some aha moments I had around some of my health struggles and one resource that has been super helpful in changing the way I feel day to day.
Ok no biggie, just a casual Thursday over here.
You can connect with me as well as see my tattoo art on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/micahriot/
my website is www.micahriot.com
The podcast is hosted on Buzzsprout but truly lives in the heart of Micah's website at:
https://www.micahriot.com/ink-medicine-podcast/
Everyone who has visible tattoos has heard "Does it hurt?" from both curious strangers and close friends and family alike.
In fact we hear that question more than any other. As a tattoo artist I also get "where does it hurt the most?" just as often.
In this episode of Ink Medicine I attempt to answer that question, as well as offer tips on how to make it hurt less than it could and offer you alternatives for how to think of tattoo pain instead of how most think of it... as pain. A mindset shift can improve the quality of your tattoo experience (and life) greatly.
You can connect with me as well as see my tattoo art on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/micahriot/
my website is www.micahriot.com
The podcast is hosted on Buzzsprout but truly lives in the heart of Micah's website at:
https://www.micahriot.com/ink-medicine-podcast/
I met Natasha many years ago when she came to me as a client. The next time I saw her was at Old Crow, under the tutelage of Hannah Wolf (link to Hannah's episode on Ink Medicine below). Very recently Natasha opened her private studio in the heart of the Dogpatch neighborhood, two blocks from the best coffee in town. I met her there on a sunny Sunday morning to talk shop, marvel at how sleek and beautiful her studio is, ask her some rude questions and record it all for your pleasure.
The sound quality in this one is fun, you can almost imagine yourself sitting in the studio with us, which is located on a big busy street with lots of traffic going by.
Siberian-born tattoo artist, Natasha Tsozik, is an open book. She talks about tattooing in Russia, and then in the States, culture specific beauty standards, how she met her husband of about a decade, being an English teacher and also an illustrator, the connection between Yiddish and underground prison culture, and spoiler alert, she isn't even Jewish, and much much more.
This conversation has such a unique flavor, you won't be able to get enough.
find Natasha Tsozik on instagram at:
https://www.instagram.com/natasha_tsozik/
on her website at:
https://natashatsozik.com/
and in person at Open Studios in SF, November 18-19, 2023 at:
2344 3rd st
Hannah Wolf's episode:
https://www.micahriot.com/2022/12/20/ep-5-throw-me-to-the-wolves-specifically-hannah-wolf/
You can connect with me as well as see my tattoo art on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/micahriot/
my website is www.micahriot.com
The podcast is hosted on Buzzsprout but truly lives in the heart of Micah's website at:
https://www.micahriot.com/ink-medicine-podcast/
I couldn't be more grateful for the surge of reviews that's been pouring in lately, and yes, you have two ish more weeks to get yours in.
For every ten reviews I will pull one random winner. The more reviews the more winners!
The rewards? One-hour of tattoo time with yours truly or a unique piece of jewelry, co-designed with your input. You could indeed be the lucky winner!
My ramble today is about my design process. Both stencil and freehand. There is probably much more to say, but I said what I could think of.
Where and how I start, why I would use one process over another, what I pay attention to when I am designing, it's all right here.
Whether you're an ink enthusiast or just curious, tune in for a lively narration of my creative process and behind-the-scenes insights.
For my jewelry making instagram page, have a look here:
https://www.instagram.com/shka_tulka/
You can connect with me as well as see my tattoo art on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/micahriot/
my website is www.micahriot.com
The podcast is hosted on Buzzsprout but truly lives in the heart of Micah's website at:
https://www.micahriot.com/ink-medicine-podcast/
Meet Kinky Barbie, the queer, kinky, polyam, switch, witchy bundle of snakes in a thong, who embodies her life on her own terms.
Barbie lays out her journey with body modification and her perspective on it as a form of self-care. You'll hear some of the sparkliest stories from our ten plus year long friendship. Polyamory, growing up in the South, secret inner chambers, favorite sex toys, a recipe for peanut butter keto cookies, exotic dancing... it all makes an appearance and honestly we've just scratched the surface.
Come hear a little bit of the story of... Kinky Freaky Amazing Barbie!
You can connect with me as well as see my tattoo art on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/micahriot/
my website is www.micahriot.com
Do you have to be great at drawing to become a successful tattoo artist?
Spoiler alert: No, you don't!
Let's unravel this commonly asked question, as I, Micah Riot, share my personal journey art journey from being a kid taking casual painting classes to becoming a professional tattoo artist with no formal art school education.
- Art skills can be learned.
- "Good" art is subjective
- There is a lot more involved to creating a successful tattoo besides the drawing.
Honestly, I've learned that success in the tattoo industry is more about your will to learn, your ability to connect with your clients and your desire to hone your intuition in the right ways.
Have a listen!
You can connect with me as well as see my tattoo art on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/micahriot/
my website is www.micahriot.com
Judy Jaramillo Argumedo first came to me in 2009, when I was just out of my apprenticeship and starting out my career. Fourteen years later I am tattooing this powerhouse of a woman regularly.
During these years she has become the principal of a school, after decades of being a teacher. Out in the world she is known for visiting the homes of her students and making herself accessible to them and their families, and in my studio I know her for being a person who shares honestly and deeply, somebody I can relax with while working on, someone I laugh with and someone I can offer my full creativity to, because we trust each other.
Judy talks about her indigenous and Latinx roots, and what it has been like to be a tattooed woman of color building a career in education.
I am stoked to be a safe space for Judy.
Thank you for finding me all those years ago, friend.
You can connect with me as well as see my tattoo art on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/micahriot/
my website is www.micahriot.com
Count down with me as I, your host, Micah Riot, spill the ink on some of the biggest Tattoo Artist Pet Peeves. Well... for me, anyway. I can't speak for all of us.
Number ten is that one time somebody asked me to make change for the cash they brought to pay with. Sorry, I don't keep a stocked register. I can see why you thought I might, but I don't. The vast majority of time I've been paid with CCs in my fifteen year career.
Number five is when clients insist on watching me draw over my shoulder. There is just something... about it. Like being under a microscope ...
And number one is...
Well, you'll have to listen to find out what that is.
I don't want to ruin your appetite.
Each pet peeve includes an antidote. And above all, please don't take any of these personally! I promise you, they are not about you! I've been at it for long enough that my common experiences aren't attached to specific faces.
Subscribe, rate and review, and most importantly... don't take it personally. And tell a friend. This is a pretty cool podcast... if you ask me.
You can connect with me as well as see my tattoo art on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/micahriot/
my website is www.micahriot.com
Carina and I started working on a larger project last week.
Almost right as we started working together, she told me she used to tattoo.
I had so many questions but held them all so we could have that conversation on the record.
I love tattooing so much and am always curious about people's journeys in (and out) of this life. If you are also curious about why someone might start to tattoo and then stop, you will have to listen. It's a straight forward, concise, smooth, lovely episode. This interview was one of the easiest to conduct.
You can connect with me as well as see my tattoo art on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/micahriot/
my website is www.micahriot.com
Listen in as I share some personal updates regarding decisions I've made. I'll also be taking you through a heartfelt review from one of our listeners that deeply moved me and further affirmed why I am so proud of this podcasting journey I've been undertaking for the past eight months.
The second half of the episode takes us on an exploration of the big question, can tattoo artists be monogamous given the amount of intimacy we encounter on a daily basis at work? I will give my take and offer two sound bytes from two tattoo artist friends of mine pondering the same questions.
I've always wanted to moonlight as Dan Savage, so thank you, listener for providing me with an opportunity to do my own advice column podcast segment. More please!
Third, I do believe this is a question that would benefit from even further expansion and more discussion of intimacy in tattoo shops in tattoo artist/ client relationships and some storytelling time. Yes, there will be storytelling.
Anonymous advice column questions or comments can be asked/told here:
https://form.jotform.com/231836610916154
You can connect with me as well as see my tattoo art on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/micahriot/
my website is www.micahriot.com
Part Two is live!
This is the second half of my deep AF conversation with my new tattoo bestie (don't worry, Wolf, you are still my OG tattoo bestie!) Sarah Sun (IG: sun.medicine ) of Balm Tattooing (IG: balm tattooing ).
We tell each other stories of notable tattoo clients and sessions (with privacy in mind, never any names!), talk about the role social media has in our lives and what kinds of self care feel like a necessity vs just a nice option.
Please rate and review Ink Medicine Podcast on Apple Podcasts as well as Spotify. It really helps get the word out! Thank you so much!
Next week I will be dropping a solo episode with a list of reasons why I love being a tattoo artist!
You can connect with me as well as see my tattoo art on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/micahriot/
my website is www.micahriot.com
Some weeks ago I posted about a podcast episode I just released. Sarah commented. I didn’t know who she was so I went to look at her profile and immediately became obsessed with her positionality, her perspective and her art. I wanted to know anything and everything she was willing to share about her life and career. It is rare that I encounter tattoo artists whose ethics I’m impressed with first, before I ever see any of their artwork.
This episode is part one of two. Come back next week for the conclusion.
Thank you for listening.
Please rate and review Ink Medicine Podcast.
It really really helps!
The more you actively approve of the show, the more people are likely to find and listen to it.
You can connect with me as well as see my tattoo art on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/micahriot/
my website is www.micahriot.com
Here is a little reference episode for all you newbs to getting tattooed. I will tell you how to plan the week of your appointment, and what to eat, how to dress, what to bring the day of. If you want this kind of info, I am so very happy to provide.
You can connect with me as well as see my tattoo art on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/micahriot/
my website is www.micahriot.com
I was asked and I shall answer! This episode is about my journey to having my own business, or more accurately, my own shop. Up until very recently most tattoo artists were self employed and renting chairs at shops. California law changed and now most people "renting chairs" are employees of the business.
For me it was a long and fairly organic process, from apprenticing and working at my first shop, to my second, and then to moving on into my private studio in SF and then finding my current space in San Leandro. Each step of growth was scary, but I was ready for it. Tune in for the details. Thank you for listening!
You can connect with me as well as see my tattoo art on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/micahriot/
my website is www.micahriot.com
I started tattooing in 2008, and I started following Tattrx almost from its' inception just a few years later. It was the blog that gave me permission to explore alternative styles in tattooing. Morgan is the person who started that blog. After poring over the pages of Tattrx, I started to play with "watercolor" and "abstract" tattoo styles.
These days Morgan is better known for ChillPolyamory, a beautiful online resource library and peer support space with over one hundred thousand followers on Instagram and over one hundred thirty thousand on TikTok.
However, we talked more about her career as a tattoo artist manager and marketing coach, her approach to tattooing as a true art form and her relationships in the tattoo artist community.
This conversation was a bucket list item for me and I was stoked that Morgan was so gracious as to have it with me.
Find and follow Morgan at https://www.instagram.com/chillpolyamory/
You can connect with me as well as see my tattoo art on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/micahriot/
my website is www.micahriot.com
So this thing came out over the past few days on Tattoo TikTok. A story and then another story and another about a scammer tattooer up in Canada, and it got me thinking about how integrity is a scant resource these days. But then all of these other tattoo artists started responding to the original person, creating free art for her, and offering to tattoo her (also for free), and it warmed my heart. And it made me want to talk about how exactly integrity in these relationships may look.
In this episode of Ink Medicine, I bring you some of the things I find important as I build my relationships with my clientele. Things like ensuring physical, mental and emotional comfort, privacy, and offering transparency about financial commitments as much as possible.
And you get a short synopsis of the TikTok tattoo drama, because you need the background, of course, you want that tea.
PS As promised in the show notes, here is the link to the episode about boundaries:
https://www.buzzsprout.com/2093933/episodes/12745767-ep-23-boundaries-take-one
You can connect with me as well as see my tattoo art on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/micahriot/
my website is www.micahriot.com
I met Amithyst Fist when I was about twenty years old, which was about twenty years ago. We couldn't remember if we met at Camp Trans, a protest camp, on the outskirts of the Michigan Womyn's Music Festival, or at NOLOSE conference in Portland, OR, or maybe it was on the floor of a queer dance club (I was underage at the time). To sum it up, we have the same rebellious queer punk streak running through us and so we recognized a kindred spirit in one another right away. Amithyst made her way onto my table about a year ago, and I am happy to report we are back to being peas in a pod.
On this episode Amithyst snuggles with Lulu while telling me about her queer and tattoo roots in San Francisco, CA and Portland, OR. I ask her about her work in as a counselor in mental heath care in jail, and about what its like to be a sparkly queer fat femme in the world not made for people like her.
Our chat is very casual, very easy and warm, and open. And I think you will absolutely love it.
I am always stoked to hear what y'all think! hit me up on instagram. Or through my website. Please rate and review me on Apple Podcasts. I really want to reach more ears because this work feels good and important!
You can connect with me as well as see my tattoo art on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/micahriot/
my website is www.micahriot.com
Hear me tell the story/ies about how I got better at boundaries as a tattoo artist with clients. This work gets very personal. Boundaries can get messy. And what I saw around me "growing up" in my family and then at my first tattoo shop was entirely conflicting in messaging.
Honestly I am proud of this episode. It's honest. But boundaried. I wanted to spill more tea, but I held back. I've been listening to Normal Gossip the pod, and I was poised to tell on more people. Badly behaved clients. But I didn't. Not yet. I feel good about this episode.
Maestro encouraged me to speak to boundaries in a future episode and given the week I had, it became the perfect topic to end this week on.
If you have any questions, or topic suggestions, don't hesitate to reach out to me on Instagram @micahriot.
And please rate and review my little bundle of joy (this pod) on Apple podcasts! Five stars please! :)
You can connect with me as well as see my tattoo art on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/micahriot/
my website is www.micahriot.com
I've known The Movement Maestro for a couple of years in the online space. They are a super engaging Instagram marketing specialist, brand strategy and online business coach. They happen to have an absolutely fascinating personality, and they are Black, Puerto Rican, queer, and an East coaster originally, (but perfect for that LA life). I've never met anyone like them before. They also have a million plus downloads of their (wildly successful!) podcast "Maestro on the Mic".
Maestro and their podcast is actually the reason Ink Medicine Podcast exists. They said "do the thing." And I did. I consider them a mentor, hope to keep building our connection to a solid friendship and am endlessly thankful for all the ways I have grown as a person and business owner because of their teachings.
They are a person of integrity.
And we didn't talk shop much at all, though our conversation was very very good. You will enjoy it, I promise. We get deep fast. You'll even find out some things about me you didn't know.
Follow them on instagram @themovementmaestro
Their website is: https://themovementmaestro.com
You can connect with me as well as see my tattoo art on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/micahriot/
my website is www.micahriot.com
Listen to me explain why tattoos are costly.
I absolutely did forget to talk about the fact that every time we tattoo someone, we make them bleed, could potentially poke ourselves with their same needle or get their blood in our eyeballs and so we risk being blood bound to them for life.
I use myself as an example for why tattoos are expensive giving you a breakdown of what it costs to run a shop and what it costs to rent a chair in a shop, as well as why I, and many other tattooists can't work more hours for lower rate even if we have the clientele available to us.
I also tell you about a project I've been wanting to bring to life for years but it's still on the backburner.
I'll have to do a part II sometime.
You can connect with me as well as see my tattoo art on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/micahriot/
my website is www.micahriot.com
I became aware of Jamal and his work on instagram last summer when he approached me to get tattooed. Our plans didn't work out then but I started paying attention to his online presence. Lemmeeducateyou does precisely that. He says the Thing when it needs to be said. He says it as loud as he can. I think of him as a political influencer of sorts. He is raw and he is kind, he is bold and he is loving. His posts popping up on my feed is a blessing. I feel lucky to know about him and learn from him and even luckier to know him personally.
Listen to this week's episode because you want to know him too. Trust.
follow Jamal Taylor on instagram @lemmeeducateyou
You can connect with me as well as see my tattoo art on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/micahriot/
my website is www.micahriot.com
How's your start of April going? Mine is chill.
Have a lovely April and please listen to my next couple of interviews, they are with incredibly powerful people.
You can connect with me as well as see my tattoo art on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/micahriot/
my website is www.micahriot.com
If anything, I know how to pick my guests. As a bonus, this fascinating human has a buttery silky radio voice.
Leila McCabe Williams talks about growing up Muslim with an Irish father and a Jewish mother, being heavily tattooed as a young woman, building Beloved Communities as an activist, and what it's like to straddle the line between cultural worlds for the entirety of her life.
Tune in, do some dishes, fold some laundry, we will keep you company.
You can connect with me as well as see my tattoo art on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/micahriot/
my website is www.micahriot.com
An fun silly quickie to tell and show you what a day in my life is like. For some the mundane details are boring, and feel free to skip, for others -- they are fascinating. I, personally live for that sh*** .
Highlights include my morning and night drink of choice, the amount of time I've been doing crossfit, my dog's primary communication mode, and my excitement about the abundance of queer spaces in Oakland, where I live.
You can connect with me as well as see my tattoo art on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/micahriot/
my website is www.micahriot.com
It's hard to describe this one, y'all. I've known this person as long as I have been tattooing (fifteen years), and I've admired them this entire time. They walked so I could prance a bit.
This may have been the most raw episode yet. Wolf and I cover so many topics. We talk shop in so many ways. We talk about apprenticing, evolution of the craft, what it takes to become and stay a tattoo artist, trauma informed tattooing, sharing of information, client expectations, changes in our specific corner of tattoo culture, money, and so much more.
The quality of this one is "road recorded" but it is still very palatable and the conversation is riveting. I loved making this episode and I loved editing it.
Thank you, Wolf.
You can connect with me as well as see my tattoo art on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/micahriot/
my website is www.micahriot.com
Last week I, Micah Riot, met some close friends in Ireland, and we adventured in Dublin and along the West coast in a big gay van, stayed in a short castle, saw the brightest green fields and the moodiest grey skies and a lot of shaggy cows.
We ate fish and chips, we drank (mostly Spanish) wine, and some of us even tattooed each other.
Tune in to get the deets on my big gay trip to Ireland.
You can connect with me as well as see my tattoo art on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/micahriot/
my website is www.micahriot.com
I am hanging out in Ireland this week taking in all the green and visiting an old friend with some other friends. Getting tattooed, too. I will tell you all about it when I am back at the end of this month.
You can connect with me as well as see my tattoo art on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/micahriot/
my website is www.micahriot.com
Erin Rogers is autistic and she is a story telling coach. We met on a reddit board. Follow along as we meander down a lot of conversational paths stumbling on some real gems and moments of connection along the way.
We talk about the way different ways our minds work, she tells me her tattoo stories, we touch upon the systemic humiliation built into our education systems, mention a couple of movies along the way, and have a few laughs too.
You can find Erin at https://www.storystarcoaching.com
on instagram @erin_rodgers_storypro
She is available for one on one coaching or corporate team storytelling work.
You can connect with me as well as see my tattoo art on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/micahriot/
my website is www.micahriot.com
So you decided to get tattooed.
This is a ramble from me, Micah Riot, a person who has been getting tattooed for twenty years and tattooing others for 14 about what to think about and ask yourself when you are wanting to take that next step of finding a tattoo artist.
If you have questions, desires, requests, notes, find me on instagram or over e-mail and let me know.
You can connect with me as well as see my tattoo art on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/micahriot/
my website is www.micahriot.com
Luoi. They have Luoi in common.
Meet Luoi. She might be the owner of the most buttery toasty voice I've ever recorded.
Luoi talks about her polyamory, how she met her wife, being on the road more than being at home, being a butch of all trades, studying piercing and getting tattooed as a youngin, making coffee, and all the while we giggle like tired schoolchildren and Lulu gently snores.
You will not want this episode to end. It's very soothing.
If you have house organizing needs in the Bay Area and want a bunch of hot queers to tell you what to do with your crap, Luoi can be reached at yourlogisticalcompanion@gmail.com .
You can connect with me as well as see my tattoo art on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/micahriot/
my website is www.micahriot.com
A short(ish) ramble about the things I'm excited about in the next few months, including a big for me purchase I made last week.
Also a couple of little bummers.
Announcement: please rate and review the podcast! Help me get the word out! Everyone who reviews it on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or Google Podcasts (an entry per review) will be entered into a giveaway. I will be giving away tattoo time and another sweet useful handmade by me surprise. Enter from now until my birthday, March 22nd. I will pull a name or two out of a hat then.
You can connect with me as well as see my tattoo art on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/micahriot/
my website is www.micahriot.com
The thing about Alle is that she is an absolute ray of sunshine in my life. Alle, as she says, has resting friendly face and is genuinely one of the sweetest humans I've ever met. I consider Alle my Fairy Goddesschild, it is a chosen family commitment, one I consider an honor.
In this episode we recount some of the cornerstone stories of Alle's young life. From singing opera all over the world throughout her teenage years to being the muse of her first painter partner; we talk about being gay, emotional intelligence, and of course getting tattooed.
Also I've realized with Alle's help what exactly this podcast project means to me.
You can connect with me as well as see my tattoo art on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/micahriot/
my website is www.micahriot.com
I come on to talk about three things:
One, how my new year's mini getaway to Mendocino went with my Love. Two, I talk about tattooing older skin and a few things that can be unusual about the healing process when tattooing folks over 65, and three, I relay a quick texting conversation I had with my Ukrainian cousin about ... capitalism. I know you can learn a couple of things from this conversation, which I would bet you didn't know before.
Thank you for being here. I appreciate you so much.
You can connect with me as well as see my tattoo art on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/micahriot/
my website is www.micahriot.com
This week I am talking to one of my longest term friends, Blue Sirius. We go way back to the very beginning of our queer AF connection, and reminisce about its' many iterations. She tells me a few of her choice memories of us living together, hint: one involves a cow tongue.
We talk a little bit of shit about growing up queer in LA, I am touched by Blue's detailed descriptions of our tattooing sessions over the years and we shed a tear over Blue's dog soulmate Ella.
I know everyone says this, but you really don't want to miss this episode of Ink Medicine Pod.
It's f''''n fabulous.
You can see my tattoo art on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/micahriot/
my website is www.micahriot.com
The better being part is ironic. I am going to be just as good or bad depending on whom you ask next year as I was this year.
This is episode 7 of Ink Medicine podcast, which is a ramble from me about my Christmas weekend, my upcoming New Year's weekend, about clients who have passed away this year and a list of the 25 books I read in 2022 with short commentary on each.
You are welcome of course to reach out through micahtattoos@gmail.com to offer your own book suggestions for my 2023 reading list, to offer constructive criticism or to tell me how much you enjoy my ramblings ;) .
You can see my tattoo art on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/micahriot/
my website is www.micahriot.com
Hannah Wolf is an utterly interesting human. She started tattooing as a teenager, is on her second ownership of a pirate ship, excuse me, a tattoo shop, has written and published an impressive tome of tattoo science wisdom, and is a motorcycle mechanic and avid skier in her spare time.
We fit a lot of topics into an hour long conversation, including what being a woman tattooer in the early 2000s was like, how to be the fanciest of tea lovers, what's hardest about being a tattoo shop owner, why getting tattooed contains inherent danger, but we do it anyway, and what this business is really all about, at least for us. I murmur my agreement with her a lot, and Lulu, my spotted pitbull, snores and makes other cozy sounds throughout the hour. What you cannot see, is Lulu also spends almost the whole hour sprawled across Hannah's lap.
Hannah's website: https://www.tattoosbyhannah.com
Old Crow's website: https://www.oldcrowtattoo.com
You can see my tattoo art on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/micahriot/
my website is www.micahriot.com
In this episode on December 15th, 2022, I talk about the anxiety that comes in a slow season, how I was humbled by an e-mail from a client, and tell you about how I spend my mornings and my evenings these days.
Next episode is an interview with Hannah Wolf, the owner of Old Crow Tattoo.
You can see my tattoo art on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/micahriot/
my website is www.micahriot.com
In this episode I talk to one of my favorite clients of the past few years about what took him so long to start getting tattooed, his polyamorous marriage, his fascinating side hustle (yes it has something to do with sexuality), and how to have the most fun in a museum.
Mark's website is: https://www.surrogatepartner.org
IPSA's website: https://www.surrogatetherapy.org
You can see my tattoo art on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/micahriot/
my website is www.micahriot.com
Episode 1!
This is the official first episode of Ink Medicine, and I am your host Micah Riot, the tattoo artist behind Ink Medicine aka Micah Riot Tattoo
I tell you a little bit about myself, and then answer three of the most commonly asked questions I get:
How did I start tattooing?
Do I have an art degree?
And what do I like tattooing the most?
Next week I am talking to one of the most interesting humans I’ve had the pleasure of tattooing in the past few years. Why? You’ll find out soon enough. Mark works two jobs and his second job fascinates me to no end. Tune in.
If you have questions or comments you can email me at micahtattoos@gmail.com
Thanks for listening!
You can see my tattoo art on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/micahriot/
my website is www.micahriot.com
Back in good old 2017, my best friend Andi Smiles and I sat down to record the first and only full length episode for Deeper Than Skin.
I thought it would be fun to start Ink Medicine with that episode:
In our first episode we chat with Andi Smiles, a phenomenal queer woman entrepreneur, who stands for social justice fully, in all aspects of her life. We talk about running non-profits, working with populations to which you don’t belong, burlesque, queerness, and of course, tattoos!
Visit my tattoo page on Instagram @micahriot
Hello I am Micah Riot. Welcome to my podcast. Here I explain why I decided to start this podcast.
Visit my tattoo page on Instagram @micahriot