Bound By Art: A Tattoo Artist&#8217;s Survival Guide

Music: Unknown Road - The Harp Project

Finding Strength in the ADHD Struggle with Missi Blue | Ep. 15 Jan 29, 2025

As someone who spent most of my life undiagnosed with ADHD, I'm passionate about sharing how what many see as limitations can actually be superpowers when you learn to work with them, not against them. In this deeply personal episode, I open up about my own journey of late diagnosis, sobriety, and building Bluebird Tattoo - and how my ADHD traits actually helped me succeed. Whether you have ADHD or face other challenges, this episode is about finding your own path and turning your perceived weaknesses into strengths.

What you will learn in this episode:

The five gifts of ADHD according to "The Gift of Adult ADD" and how traits like emotional sensitivity and creativity can become entrepreneurial advantages
Why being "nature smart" and having the ability to see the big picture can help ground you as a business owner and artist
How hyper-focus, when channeled properly, can become an unstoppable force for achieving your goals
The unexpected superpower of impulsivity - how having "zero regard for consequences" enabled bold business moves
My personal journey through sobriety, building a business, and discovering that struggling through challenges undiagnosed made me stronger
Why your diagnosis (ADHD or otherwise) should inform your path but never limit your potential
The importance of finding your own systems and methods rather than forcing yourself to fit conventional approaches

Links:

Music: Unknown Road - The Harp Project

Stop Making Excuses and GET Started with Missi Blue | Ep. 14 Jan 22, 2025

"The things you want are just on the other side of the work, and the work can't start until you take the first step." - Missi

When I opened Bluebird Tattoo Studio, all I had were fold-up tables and bare walls. Today, I want to talk about those mental barriers we set up for ourselves - you know, the ones that keep us stuck in place. I've learned that embracing the messy, imperfect beginnings isn't just okay – it's exactly where the magic starts. Let's cut through those excuses and get real about what's actually holding you back from taking that first step.

What you will learn in this episode:

Why waiting to "be ready" is the biggest lie we tell ourselves and how to push past it
The real reason failure isn't your enemy - it's actually your best teacher
Why looking at someone else's highlight reel is killing your momentum before you even start
How starting "ugly" saved my business and why it might save yours too
The way I redefined success for myself and how you can tune out the noise to find your own path
Why celebrating small wins (like a wobbly baby taking their first steps) changes everything
How to recognize that your "not enough" today would have blown your mind five years ago

Links:

Casey's FREE time management calculator

Music: Unknown Road - The Harp Project

From Burnout to Balance: Evolving as an Artist with Missi Blue and Casey Hart | Ep. 13 Jan 15, 2025

"Trust your gut and trust your experience. After a decade of experience, the body knows what to do for a lot of it. You just have to listen a little better." - Casey Hart

In this powerful episode, I sat down with Casey Hart, owner of Foxwood Tattoo Collective and an innovative force in the tattoo industry. Casey opens up about her journey from traditional tattooing to incorporating spiritual healing into her practice, showing how intuition and authenticity can transform both art and business. With 13 years of experience, she shares invaluable insights about creating boundaries, finding work-life balance, and the importance of trusting your gut in both tattooing and business.

Foxwood Tattoo Collective

What You Will Learn in This Episode:

How combining Reiki healing and sound therapy with tattooing creates a unique, personalized experience for clients
Why setting boundaries and prioritizing personal time is crucial for sustainable success in the tattoo industry
The importance of trusting your intuition and how it can improve both your artwork and client relationships
How mentorship and investing in personal growth can accelerate your professional development
The power of authenticity and vulnerability in building a strong personal brand and client connection
Strategies for avoiding burnout while maintaining creativity and productivity
The future of tattooing and why human connection will become even more valuable

Links:

Episode #1: The Perfect Client DOES Exist

Music: Unknown Road - The Harp Project

Turning Your Followers Into Paying Clients with Missi Blue | Ep. 12 Jan 08, 2025

"Business cards are not expensive, guys. I will die on this hill. Even though people might lose them or find you online, having a business card is still so important - it's your first impression and your walking billboard." - Missi Blue

In this episode, we're diving deep into the art of turning your social media following into actual paying clients. As tattoo artists, we often focus on growing our following, but the real challenge lies in converting those followers into clients who trust us with their skin. I'll share my tried-and-true strategies for building genuine connections and creating meaningful engagement that leads to bookings.

FREE Ideal Client Worksheet

What You Will Learn in This Episode:

How to identify and connect with your ideal clients through strategic social media engagement and authentic interactions
Practical tips for using polls, questions, and comments to create meaningful conversations with potential clients
The power of geo-targeting and hashtag strategies to find clients within your service area
Why Facebook communities are still valuable for building client relationships and establishing expertise
Tips for introverted artists to build confidence in client interactions while staying true to themselves
The importance of genuine engagement and relationship-building over quick sales tactics
Effective strategies for in-person networking and promoting yourself naturally in everyday situations

Links:

Music: Unknown Road - The Harp Project

8 Reasons You Won't ACHIEVE Your Goals Again This Year with Missi Blue | EP 11 Jan 01, 2025

"In order to reach your goals, you have to become the person who already has them. Stop asking what you want to do and start asking who you need to be." - Missi Blue

Today, we're diving deep into why New Year's resolutions often fail and what you can actually do about it. After years of setting goals, breaking promises to myself, and finally finding what works, I'm sharing the real, unfiltered truth about transformation. Whether you're trying to grow your business, improve your art, or make personal changes, this episode will give you actionable steps to make lasting change happen.

Goal Getter worksheet

What You Will Learn in This Episode:

Why broken self-trust is the hidden barrier keeping you from reaching your goals (and how to rebuild it)
The crucial difference between setting goals and creating intentions, and why this shift in language matters
How to develop real discipline through small, consistent actions rather than relying on motivation
The power of identity-based habits and why becoming the person who "does" is more important than the goal itself
Why accountability systems are essential and how to choose the right accountability partners
The truth about creating sustainable routines and how to make them stick
How to identify and change the daily decisions that shape your success

Links:

Music: Unknown Road - The Harp Project

Turning Mom Guilt into Growth: An Artist's Journey with Missi Blue | Ep. 10 Dec 25, 2024

"I want them to see that my success is a direct result of not giving up, putting in everything I have and am into my dream and working towards my goal. I want them to go after big dreams and know how to reach their goals." - Missi Blue

Let's get real - in this episode, I'm sharing all the ways I've both failed and succeeded at being a mom while building my tattoo career. From hiding my art from my kids (huge mistake) to finally learning how to create meaningful moments with them, I'm opening up about the messy reality of raising teenagers while running Bluebird Tattoo. If you're struggling with mom guilt or trying to balance your creative career with family life, this one's for you.

What you will learn in this episode:

How protecting your artistic space can inadvertently create barriers with your children, and ways to mindfully include them in your creative process
The unexpected benefits of letting your children witness your struggles, failures, and how you overcome them
Why creating intentional routines and traditions (like Monday night cooking sessions) can build lasting connections, even with limited time
The delicate balance between guiding your children and allowing them to discover their own creative paths
How teaching independence and resilience can prepare children for success, even when it feels counterintuitive
Why showing vulnerability and real emotions to your children can help them develop better communication skills
The importance of making time for one-on-one connections with each child, even when schedules are hectic

Links:

Music: Unknown Road - The Harp Project

9 Ways to Get More Done in Your Day with Missi Blue | Ep. 9 Dec 18, 2024

"Anyone who says they're good at multitasking is full of shit. You're not. I'm sorry. No one is. You might think you are, but if you really sat down and analyze the amount of time it takes you to do things when you are constantly switching between tasks, you would see that you waste a lot of time in your day."

Let's get real - we all have those days where we're running around like crazy but somehow getting nothing done. Trust me, I get it. I literally procrastinated recording this episode until two days before the deadline (hello, self-awareness!). But over the years, I've developed some game-changing strategies that have helped me take control of my time and actually move the needle in my business. In this episode, I'm breaking down exactly how to get more done without losing your sanity in the process.

Grab this FREEBIE! My Time Saver Cheatsheet

Read the blog: How to get more done in your day

What you'll learn in this episode:

Why getting ready the night before is crucial for productivity (and how treating each day like the first day of school can transform your workflow)
The truth about prioritizing tasks and why your to-do list might be sabotaging your progress
How to use "batching" to maximize your creative energy and get more done in less time
A simple but powerful way to break your day into manageable chunks that keep you focused
Why multitasking is killing your productivity (and what to do instead)
The importance of setting boundaries with your phone, social media, and yes - even your family
How time auditing can reveal where you're actually spending your hours (warning: prepare to be shocked)

Links:

Episode 3: Be Your Own Hero

Music: Unknown Road - The Harp Project

Energy Vampire with Missi Blue | Ep. 8 Dec 11, 2024

"Whatever you're looking for, you're sure to find it. So find the good things in situations and the people around you in life in general." - Missi Blue

In this episode of the Bound by Art podcast, I dive deep into a topic that affects every tattoo artist: managing the energy in your space. As someone who's spent countless hours in close proximity with clients, I've learned that understanding and managing the energy dynamics in your studio isn't just about comfort – it's essential for your mental health and the success of your business. Whether you're dealing with energy-draining clients or trying to create a more positive atmosphere in your shop, this episode provides practical strategies based on real experiences at Bluebird Tattoo.

What you will learn in this episode:

The clear distinction between energy vampires and energy amplifiers, and how to identify them in your professional and personal life
Practical strategies for managing challenging client interactions without compromising your professional relationships
How to set effective time boundaries while maintaining positive client relationships
The importance of self-awareness in preventing yourself from becoming an energy vampire
Techniques for steering conversations in a positive direction during long tattoo sessions
The role of compassion in handling clients who may be struggling with personal challenges
Specific methods for protecting your energy while maintaining professionalism in your practice

Links:

Get my FREE survival guide here

Music: Unknown Road - The Harp Project

Surviving the Slow Season with Missi Blue | Ep. 7 Dec 04, 2024

"Winners are made in the off season. While everyone else is taking a break, we're working our asses off - and when the next season starts, we hit the ground running." - Missi Blue

Hey everyone, Missi here! In today's episode, we're diving deep into a reality every tattoo artist faces - the slow season. But here's the thing: instead of seeing it as a setback, I'm showing you how to use this time to level up your game. From creating additional income streams and building better systems to networking and improving your craft, we're covering everything you need to know to turn the slow season into your secret weapon for success. Plus, I'm sharing my personal experiences and strategies that have helped me navigate these quieter times while setting myself up for an even stronger comeback.

What you will learn in this episode:

Strategic financial planning for unpredictable income cycles and handling slow seasons
How to develop profitable side hustles that complement your tattoo business
Creating systems and routines to streamline your business operations
Making the most of downtime through skill development and networking
Building community presence and visibility during slower months
Effective social media strategies for maintaining engagement during slow periods
Planning and goal-setting techniques for sustainable business growth

Links:

Find Your Unique Style Worksheet

Music: Unknown Road - The Harp Project

Find Your Unique Style with Missi Blue| Ep. 6 Nov 27, 2024

"My entire career was manifested out of trying to prove someone wrong. I'm just fueled by spite." - Missi Blue

Welcome back to the Bound by Art podcast! In this episode, I'm opening up about my wild 20-year ride in tattooing - from my early days as a stubborn apprentice to finding my groove as a pet portrait specialist. You'll hear how spite and determination (plus some Christmas ornaments!) led me to discover my true artistic voice. I share the raw truth about working with dickheads who toughened me up, why specializing doesn't mean selling out, and how being unapologetically yourself attracts the right clients. Plus, I break down my journey from barely making it during slow seasons to building a thriving specialized career that lights me up every day.

Pet Portrait Webinar

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

The real story behind my failed apprenticeship and how starting over shaped my career
How painting pet ornaments during slow season evolved into my signature style
Why specializing makes you more appealing to your ideal clients
The importance of proving yourself before niching down
How being transparent about trying new things keeps clients excited
Why analyzing your childhood influences can unlock your authentic style
The power of intentional growth vs. letting success "just happen"

Links:

Music: Unknown Road - The Harp Project

How to Say NO to a Client with Missi Blue | Ep. 5 Nov 19, 2024

I've learned that setting clear boundaries isn't just about protecting yourself—it's about elevating your entire practice. In this episode, I'm sharing the exact strategies I use to maintain professional relationships, handle difficult situations, and create a healthier work environment. Whether you're struggling with boundary-pushing clients or just want to strengthen your studio policies, this episode will give you the tools you need to take control of your practice.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

How to identify red flags in potential clients before booking them
The exact language to use when breaking up with problem clients
Why friends and family need the same boundaries as other clients
The importance of documenting all client interactions and agreements
How to maintain professionalism while being firm and direct
Practical strategies for handling boundary violations
The consequences of avoiding difficult conversations

Links:

Music: Unknown Road - The Harp Project

How to Attract More Clients with Missi Blue | Ep. 4 Nov 13, 2024

In this episode of the Bound By Art podcast, I'm diving deep into something that transformed my tattoo business - creating meaningful connections with clients that turn them into loyal supporters. As artists, we often focus on bringing in new clients, but the real magic happens when we give our existing clients an experience they can't help but talk about. I'm sharing my tried-and-true methods for building genuine relationships and creating moments that matter, all while staying true to who you are as an artist.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

Why focusing on current clients is more valuable than constantly chasing new ones
The memory technique that helps you genuinely remember your clients (and never have those awkward "is this your first tattoo?" moments again)
How to create meaningful conversations that go beyond small talk
Practical ways to make clients feel comfortable and reduce anxiety during their session
Simple but impactful gestures that show appreciation and build lasting connections

Links:

Music: Unknown Road - The Harp Project

Be Your Own Hero with Missi Blue | Ep. 3 Nov 05, 2024

Today, we're diving deep into what it truly means to take control of your own success. From my personal struggles getting back to the gym to navigating a tattoo business during COVID, I'm sharing how I learned to stop waiting for someone else to save me and started being my own hero. Whether you're dealing with a slow season in your tattoo career or facing personal challenges, this episode is all about turning those "someone should" moments into "I will" actions.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

Why waiting for external motivation rarely leads to lasting change
How to shift from blame-shifting to taking responsibility for your success
The importance of building internal motivation versus relying on others
Practical strategies for pushing through when no one's coming to save you
Real-world examples of turning challenges into opportunities for growth
Why slow seasons are actually perfect opportunities for leveling up
The power of asking "What more could I be doing?" instead of making excuses

Links: