Bound By Art: A Tattoo Artist"s Survival Guide

"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

"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

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

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

In this episode, we're diving deep into one of the most crucial aspects of building a sustainable tattoo career - finding and attracting your ideal clients. After 20 years in the industry and owning Bluebird Tattoo, I've learned that working with the right clients isn't just about making better art - it's about creating a career that energizes rather than drains you. I'm sharing my tried-and-true strategies that helped me build a thriving business doing work I love with clients who value what I

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:

After 20 years in the tattoo industry, I've learned that success isn't about doing more—it's about doing what matters most. In this episode, I open up about my personal journey with burnout, the tough decisions I had to make, and how narrowing my focus actually expanded my impact. Whether you're running a shop or building your career as an artist, this conversation is about getting real with yourself and choosing what truly matters. What You'll Learn in This Episode: Why the "do it all" mentality

I'm Missi Blue, your host of the Bound By Art podcast. After nearly 20 years in the tattoo industry and opening Bluebird Tattoo just before COVID hit, I've learned some hard lessons about what it takes to succeed in this business. This podcast is my way of sharing those insights with you – no sugar coating, just real experiences and actionable strategies to help you grow your career and business in the tattoo industry. What you'll learn in this episode: My journey from small-town Florida to