A Journey of LGBTQ+ Advocacy, Recovery and Tattoos

Welcome to the final episode of Your Ink Story Podcast!

In this episode, host Ande Lyons reflects on the INKspirational conversations that have been shared throughout the miniseries.

From deeply touching tribute tattoos to full body ink journeys, each guest has brought their unique ink story to light, revealing the significance of tattoos in their lives.

Ande highlights some memorable moments from the series, showcasing how tattoos are powerful expressions of personal experiences and emotions.

The episode concludes with a heartfelt message of gratitude to the guests and an invitation for listeners to explore the transformative power of body art.

Join us as we wrap up this miniseries and celebrate the raw human stories that have been shared on Your Ink Story.

You can find images of guests' tattoos and learn more about the series via:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tellmeyourinkstory/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@yourinkstory
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLD4Kn2UcxuXu8ZsRKzCMvOMKLmWG4JvNI

Follow Ande on your favorite social platform to learn about her next podcast: Don't Be Caged By Your Age.

Stay Inkspired, everywhere you GLOW! ♥

Note from Ande:

I’m a tattoo curious person. 

I’ve never had a tattoo, but I’ve always been fascinated by tattoo art and why someone permanently inked a design on their body.

In fact, for decades I’ve asked perfect strangers with fascinating tattoos “would you be willing to share your ink story with me?”

Their faces would light up as they shared their tattoo stories, and I felt a deeper connection with them through the ink stories that highlight what we all have in common as humans. Triumph and loss, celebration and fears, children and Beloveds, sweet pets and inspirational quotes that keep us going through the dark days. 

In August, 2023 I turned that deep curiosity into a mini-series podcast called Your Ink Story, where we focused on igniting and inspiring conversations that go beyond the surface and create a deeper connection.

I learned so much about the art of tattoos and the heart behind tattoos from these INKspirational conversations! 

As I bring this series of INKspirational conversations to a close, my heart is filled with gratitude and appreciation for all the guests who joined me on this ink story journey. 

Their willingness and courage to bare their souls and share the raw human stories we all have in common will inspire listeners around the world for years to come.

Please take a moment to tune in to the Your Ink Story podcast –you’ll discover how body art can spark conversations, inspire truth, and shape a more inclusive and understanding world.

Thank you so much for joining me on this journey - it’s been an honor and a privilege to share these heartfelt ink stories with you.

♥

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Welcome to another INKspirational conversation on Your Ink Story!

Meet Dr. Mo (Melissa Dittberner), a passionate advocate and educator in the field of addiction counseling and prevention, and hear the deeply personal stories behind her tattoos, from her roller derby origins to her journey through academia and recovery.

During our conversation we explore the connection between body art, personal empowerment, and mental well-being.

As a researcher in the field, Dr. Mo discovered a positive correlation between the number of tattoos an individual has and their mental health scores. This emphasizes the potential of tattoos as a form of self-expression and coping mechanism, offering a means for individuals to navigate their emotional well-being.

Our conversation also highlights the importance of cultivating empathy and understanding towards individuals with tattoos, acknowledging that their art represents different chapters of their lives. Each tattoo may hold a unique significance, even if perspectives change over time.

Join us as we uncover the transformative power of body art, the cultural significance of tattoos, and the fascinating intersections between art, identity, and well-being.

You’ll be inkspired and enlightened by Dr. Mo's captivating insights and stories!

If you're not already subscribed to our podcast, do so now to get uplifting and transformative stories delivered right to your ears. 🎧

Be sure to hop on over to Your Ink Story’s Instagram feed to watch the video reel showcasing Dr. Mo’s many INKspirational tattoos.

Shoutout to Ann Loris at Painted Lady Co for her beautiful artwork on Dr. Mo!

Thank you so much for listening to this episode of Your Ink Story!

Please rate and review this podcast wherever you are tuning in, and if this episode inspired you, please share it, so we can bring more people together, inspire connection, and ignite conversations that go beyond the surface.

If you or someone you know has an ink story to share on the podcast, please send me an email: ande at yourinkstory.com.

You can also share your thoughts and INKspirations from these conversations in the comment threads wherever you’re tuning in … or over on Instagram @tellmeyourinkstory.

Waving from Boston and wishing you a delicious day, everywhere you glow – cheers!

Ande ♥

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Greetings Inklings!

Welcome to Your Ink Story Podcast, where personal sagas come alive through the power of storytelling.

On this episode we dive into an extraordinary journey of resilience and transformation.

Our remarkable guest, Kendra Petty, has withstood the kind of hardships most people can't even imagine.

From surviving a mafia hit and escaping the clutches of an abusive cult to the harrowing battles with breast cancer and mental illness within her family, Kendra's life reads like a page-turning thriller.

Yet, here she stands, not just a survivor, but a beacon of hope and powerful healing that will leave you feeling inkspired.

Kendra turned her pain into purpose, penning her tribulations and triumphs with the aid of a ghostwriter, into a page-turning memoir called "I Can't Believe I'm Not Dead."

You’ll hear how Kendra excised the negativity from her life, and curated joy and gratitude with purposeful intention.

This includes the story behind her evocative "lucky" tattoo, a symbol etched on her palm that serves as a powerful daily reminder to shift her pathways away from trauma and towards the power of gratitude.

Tune into hear this profound conversation, and let's honor the strength it takes to turn tragedy into triumph, and the courage it takes to rewrite one's life journey.

Can't get enough of Kendra’s story? Dive deeper through her book, "I Can't Believe I'm Not Dead," and engage with the awe*mazing stories she shares and the wonderful wisdom from her healing journey. Visit https://amzn.to/48fnzM8 to get your copy.

If you're not already subscribed to our podcast, do so now to get uplifting and transformative stories delivered right to your ears. 🎧

Tap this link to learn more about Kendra, and hop on over to Your Ink Story’s Instagram feed to watch the video reel showcasing Kendra’s INKspirational Lucky tattoo.

Shoutout to Orlando Quintanilla @orlando_sdtlv at @skindesigntattoos for Kendra’s powerful palm tattoo!

Please rate and review this podcast wherever you are tuning in, and if this episode inspired you, please share it, so we can bring more people together, inspire connection, and ignite conversations that go beyond the surface.

If you or someone you know has an ink story to share on the podcast, please send me an email: ande at yourinkstory.com.

You can also share your thoughts and INKspirations from these conversations in the comment threads wherever you’re tuning in … or over on Instagram @tellmeyourinkstory.

Waving from Boston and wishing you an INKspirational day, everywhere you glow – cheers!

Ande ♥

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Welcome to Episode 27, a fascinating tattoo odyssey filled with empowering ink stories.

Our guest, Mia Voss – a mouthy and opinionated brand ambassador, live streamer, podcaster and building inspector – reveals her ink journey, starting with her first tattoo in the early 90s during the outlawed tattoo parlor days of NYC to her latest profound and captivating tattoos she got in Guadalajara, Mexico.

I’ve known Mia for 12 years, and you’ll hear me gasp as she shares her first 3 ink stories very few folks know about (including me!), because these tattoos are carefully placed in a very private space.

Discover how Mia's tattoos have become more than just ink on her skin—they are symbols of empowerment, self-honor, and a testament to her resilience and personal growth through life's challenges.

As a bonus, Mia enlightens us about her experience with plant medicine and its impact on her life.

It's a conversation you won't want to miss!

Subscribe and listen to Mia’s podcast Shit We Don’t Talk About here.

Learn more about Mia’s extraordinary Ayahuasca & Ceremony Medicines experience at Mexisoul Retreats here.

Meet and follow Mia’s talented tattoo artist in Guadalajara, Mexico - Emmanuel Ramírez Rodríguez Rer on Instagram here via @unoaguila_ttt

Be sure to hop on over to Your Ink Story’s Instagram feed to watch the video reel showcasing Mia’s FIVE INKspirational tattoos - @tellmeyourinkstory.

Thank you so much for listening to this episode of Your Ink Story!

Please rate and review this podcast wherever you are tuning in, and if this episode inspired you, please share it, so we can bring more people together, inspire connection, and ignite conversations that go beyond the surface.

If you or someone you know has an ink story to share on the podcast, please send me an email: ande at yourinkstory.com.

You can also share your thoughts and INKspirations from these conversations in the comment threads wherever you’re tuning in … or over on Instagram @tellmeyourinkstory.

Waving from Boston and wishing you a delicious day, everywhere you glow – cheers!

Ande ♥

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Welcome back to Your Ink Story Podcast!

Our guest, Andrew Degar, is a PhD scientist working in the field of genomics, a black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and the founder of Third Ward Jiu-Jitsu, a nonprofit focused on LGBTQ+ Community Self-Defense in Houston, TX.

Andrew began his ink journey at the age of 18, with two panda tattoos on his calves. He had to leave his home state to get his first body art designs, because tattoo studios were illegal in South Carolina until 2006.

Today, Andrew has filled both leg and arm sleeves plus his chest with art that resonates with his heart and his life.

A doctor in pharmaceutical sciences, Andrew's ink story weaves between professional discretion and personal expression as his tattoos remain coverable, allowing him to navigate healthcare systems without conflict.

From vibrant pandas and beautiful wetlands to the symbolic depth of an Egyptian plague and Byzantine designs, Andrew's tattoos seamlessly blend dark and light themes, mirroring the dualities of life.

Andrew is also the founder of Third Ward Jiu-Jitsu, a nonprofit championing community self-defense and empowerment within the LGBTQ+ community in Texas—a mission that's as impactful as the ink on his skin.

Tune in to discover not just the aesthetics of Andrew's tattoos, but the stories behind them that encapsulate the essence of what makes his heart sing.

We appreciate your continued support and encouragement. With every download, listen, and share, you help us bring to light these deeply personal accounts that might otherwise go unheard.

Hop on over to Your Ink Story’s Instagram feed to watch the video reel showcasing Andrew’s many INKspirational tattoos.

Shoutout to the talented tattoo artists who helped bring Andrew’s body art to life: Zack Spurlock; Jason Wallstrom at Sea Wolf Tattoo Company; and
Jerm Joachicide at Serpant and the Rainbow Tattoo.

Be sure to catch up on previous episodes and subscribe wherever you tune or join our email list so you never miss the stories that make us unique. 

Please rate and review this podcast wherever you are tuning in, and if this episode inspired you, please share it, so we can bring more people together, inspire connection, and ignite conversations that go beyond the surface.

If you or someone you know has an ink story to share on the podcast, please send me an email: ande @ yourinkstory.com.

Please share your thoughts and INKspirations from these conversations in the comment threads wherever you’re tuning in … or over on Instagram @tellmeyourinkstory.

Wishing you an INKspirational day, everywhere yo

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Welcome to Episode 25 of Your Ink Story!

You’ll love meeting Raja Mawad, a successful entrepreneur who shares his remarkable ink stories, from knuckle tattoos, tribal tatau tattoos using whale bones as needles, a pointillism tattoo in his ear, to his full body legacy, including a tear-drop size tattoo shaped as the state of Texas at the corner of his eye.

Raja talks about his incredible transformation from a traditional finance world to building $1.2 billion hedge fund (which he sold in 2015), and eventually redirecting his passion toward a health and wellness tech company.

With captivating candor, Raja reveals the motivations behind his body art and the significant life events that shaped his ink journey, from getting knuckle tattoos as a declaration of independence from corporate life to his immersion in tribal and traditional tattooing methods during his travels around the world.

Raja's powerful reflections on family dynamics, cultural background, and the process of finding his true self through body art will leave you feeling inspired and empowered.

His openness about his struggles and victories resonates deeply and provides a moving depiction of the transformative power of tattoos as a means of self-expression and healing.

Be sure to tune in to hear Raja's compelling story and gain a deeper understanding of the human experience through body art.

Thank you for being part of our thriving Your Ink Story community. We hope Raja's story resonates with you and enriches your own ink journey.

Hop on over to Your Ink Story’s Instagram or TikTok feed to watch the video reel showcasing Raja’s many INKspirational tattoos.

Shoutout to Amanda Ellis at Ink Illusions in Kirkland, Washington for her beautiful artwork on Raja!

Please rate and review this podcast wherever you are tuning in, and if this episode inkspired you, please share it, so we can bring more people together, inspire connection, and ignite conversations that go beyond the surface.

If you or someone you know has an ink story to share on the podcast, please send me an email: ande at yourinkstory.com.

You can also share your thoughts and INKspirations from these conversations in the comment threads wherever you’re tuning in … or over on Instagram @tellmeyourinkstory.

Waving from Boston and wishing you an INKspirational day, everywhere you glow – cheers!

Ande ♥

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This episode of Your Ink Story is an intimate conversation about navigating grief and the healing one can find from tattoo art.

Our guest, Dr. Megan Daley, is a trauma and somatic informed mindset and burnout coach, who uniquely aids high-achieving women in male-dominated fields.

Doctor, podcaster, and author, Dr. Megan takes us on an intimate journey through her life story, punctuated and symbolized by the ink on her skin, revealing the incredible healing power of tattoos, with each one serving as a window to an important phase of her life.

From honoring her late father with an intricate design of a naval anchor and a medical caduceus embraced by watercolors, to a river and water-filled diamond symbolizing her healing journey; each mark carries a profound story.

Dr. Megan’s forearm tattoo is a compass with snowflake quadrants, and it links to personal experiences and her love for hiking and solo travel.

A fascinating addition to her ink is the thumb tattoo spelling 'trust', reflecting Dr. Megan’s belief in self-trust and fearlessly taking action, even amidst uncertainty.

Join us for an episode filled with resilience, healing, and self-discovery.

Tap this link to learn more about Dr. Megan and connect with her online.

Be sure to hop on over to Your Ink Story’s Instagram feed to watch the video reel showcasing Dr. Megan’s INKspirational tattoos.

Shoutout to Dr. Megan’s talented tattoo artists Daniel at Sungold Tattoo and Barber in Scottsdale, AZ and Grace at Desert Grace in Phoenix, AZ.

Thank you so much for listening to this episode of Your Ink Story!

Please rate and review this podcast wherever you are tuning in, and if this episode inspired you, please share it, so we can bring more people together, inspire connection, and ignite conversations that go beyond the surface.

Join us as we unravel the mysteries behind the ink - subscribe to the montly newsletter here to make sure you don't miss an episode.

Waving from Boston and wishing you a delicious day, everywhere you glow – cheers!

Ande ♥

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Welcome to Episode 23 of Your Ink Story!

Our guest, tattooed trailblazer Whitney Knox Lee, is a voice for civil rights and social justice.

A former civil rights attorney now involved in social justice and DEI facilitation, Whitney is also the host of the Impostrix Podcast, where she brings listeners impactful conversations about what it's like to navigate the professional world as a person of color. From imposter syndrome to racial toxicity, she covers it all.

Whitney shares her personal tattoo stories, beginning from her first Kokopelli design, a sign of family unity she got at just 18, through to her impactful Lady Justice arm piece embodying her perspective on justice.

While sharing the story of her multi-demensional Lady Justice tattoo, Whitney reminds us of the history behind the lack of due justice in America for our Indigenous People, Black Americans, and our Asian Americans - who were incarcerated during World War II.

Tattoos can be an intimate expression of identity, values, and experiences, and Whitney’s are rich with complex meanings - from representing a connection with her estranged twin sister to an emblematic bird tattoo honoring her intriguing ancestral family name, “Sparrow.”

We also discuss the intimacy of getting tattoos and the importance of finding the right tattoo artist – especially for darker skin –  valuable info for those contemplating getting some ink of their own!

So, sit back and join us as we unwrap the sentinel stories Whitney has etched on her skin, transforming her life's journey into living art.

Tap this link to follow Whitney’s podcast Impostrix.

Be sure to hop on over to Your Ink Story’s Instagram feed here to watch the video reel showcasing Whitney’s many INKspirational tattoos.

Shoutout to Brian Griffith at Social Skins Tattoos for Whitney’s beautiful Lady Justice artwork.

Please rate and review this podcast wherever you are tuning in, and if this episode inspired you, please share it, so we can bring more people together, inspire connection, and ignite conversations that go beyond the surface.

If you or someone you know has an ink story to share on the podcast, please send me an email: ande at yourinkstory.com.

You can also share your thoughts and INKspirations from these conversations on the website or over on Instagram @tellmeyourinkstory.

Waving from Boston and wishing you a delicious day, everywhere you glow – cheers!

Ande ♥

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“My passion these days is to simply be a reflection of what I'm working on, and that’s kindness, compassion, and love. That's where I live.”

In this INKspirational episode, we chat with Melissa Rivera, whose ink story showcases the power of body art and how it can symbolize strength, healing, personal expression, and resilience in the face of life's most challenging moments.

Melissa powerfully narrates her vibrant ink story, from getting her first tattoo at 18, inspired by her astrological Leo sign, to covering her body with masterpieces such as the Egyptian lore-inspired artwork on her back and the symbolic Buddha and dragons on her leg that signpost her spiritual journey.

Most importantly, Melissa details how tattoos became her path to self-acceptance, helping her overcome body dysmorphia and gain confidence.

Melissa also opens up about her stage two breast cancer diagnosis, her subsequent decision to undergo a double mastectomy, and her choice for a flat closure over breast reconstruction—a decision that has empowered her in unusual and profound ways.

You will hear how Melissa transformed her traumatic experience into a platform for advocacy of flat closure by transparently and honestly representing that life without breasts can be empowering, not embarrassing.

We hope Melissa's ink story will inspire and motivate you, whether you're a cancer SurThriver, a tattoo enthusiast, or just a fan of incredible human stories.

Watch Melissa’s empowering speech at the Dempsey Cancer Care and Support Center event here:
https://www.facebook.com/100010346593634/videos/129223750276721/

Be sure to join us on Your Ink Story’s Instagram feed and watch the video reel showcasing Melissa’s many INKspirational tattoos.

A heartfelt shoutout and woo hoo to Melissa’s awe*mazing husband Ryan – a talented tattoo artist and owner of Sanctuary Tattoo  in Portland, ME.(https://sanctuarytattoo.com)

This is YOUR Ink Story!

Please rate and review this podcast wherever you are tuning in, and if this episode inspired you, please share it, so we can bring more people together, inspire connection, and ignite conversations that go beyond the surface.

If you or someone you know has an ink story to share on the podcast, please send me an email: ande at yourinkstory.com.

We'd love to hear your thoughts! You can share your INKspirations from these conversations in the comment threads on the website or over on Instagram @tellmeyourinkstory. 

Waving from Boston and wishing you a delicious day, everywhere you glow – cheers!

Ande ♥

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On this episode of Your Ink Story our guest, Savanna Poirier, shares her fascinating tattoo stories and takes us on an INKspirational journey through the art that adorns her body.

We dive into the meaning and significance behind each tattoo, uncovering the personal experiences and connections that have shaped Savanna's ink journey.

From her first tattoo that symbolizes a mantra she lives by, to the memorial tattoo honoring a loved one, and the stunning back tattoo that took years to complete,
Savanna's stories will leave you captivated.

Savanna's first tattoo, "no regrets," etched on her right foot, holds a special place in her heart. It's a reminder to embrace life with no reservations.

Savanna takes us through the meticulous process of getting her stunning back tattoo, a masterpiece that took almost two and a half years to complete.

From collaborating with the talented artist Nathan Adsit to the therapeutic experience of the routine, Savanna's story exemplifies the transformative power of tattoo art.

Tattoos can hold deep sentimental value, just like the VW bus inked on Savanna's arm. This symbol holds a special place in her heart, as it represents cherished memories of her grandfather “Lenny” and her dedication to restoring his VW bus along with her Dad.

Join us as we explore the beauty and power of tattoos, and get ready to be inspired by the art and stories that make up Savanna's inked canvas.

Be sure to hop on over to Your Ink Story’s Instagram feed to watch the video reel showcasing Savanna’s many INKspirational tattoos.

Shoutouts to the talented tattoo artists who created the gorgeous art adorning Savanna’s body: 
Jason Oz at Denver Tattoo Co. (IG: @ozarmy and @denvertattoocompany)
Travis Ross (LA/Scottsdale) at The Lost Cove Co (IG: @_travis_ross and @thelostcoveco)
Nathan Adsit – All Sacred Tattoo – Wheatridge, CO (IG: @nathanadsitart and @ allsacredtattoo)
White Lotus Tattoo (IG: @whitelotustattoocolorado)

Please rate and review this podcast wherever you are tuning in, and if this episode inspired you, please share it, so we can bring more people together, inspire connection, and ignite conversations that go beyond the surface.

If you or someone you know has an ink story to share on the podcast, please send me an email: ande at yourinkstory.com.

You can also share your thoughts and INKspirations from these conversations in the comment threads wherever you’re tuning in … or over on Instagram @tellmeyourinkstory.

Waving from Boston and wishing you an INKspirational day, everywhere you glow – cheers!

Ande ♥

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