From apprentices to legends, shop owners to innovators—our podcast gives the mic to the people shaping the future of tattooing. Dive deep into conversations that spark growth, challenge norms, and celebrate what makes our industry one of a kind.
Welcome to your new favorite way to dive deep into the world of tattooing. Our podcast is more than a conversation—it’s a movement. As part of Ink Different Tattoos’ mission to elevate excellence and expand equal opportunity in the tattoo industry, this series brings you powerful stories, candid insights, and meaningful dialogue from every corner of the tattoo world.
"We're thrilled to launch our podcast series and invite you to join us on a journey of exploration and inspiration."
— Paul-Anthony Surdi, Host of the Ink Different Tattoo Podcast
At Ink Different, we're committed not only to creating incredible body art but also to building a strong, inclusive community. Our podcast is a platform to amplify diverse voices, highlight the experiences of seasoned Tattoo Artists, and honor the vibrant culture, history, and future of tattooing.
Initially seen as a disruptor in the tattoo industry over a decade ago when he began the creation of what is now Ink Different Tattoos, Paul-Anthony’s experience in the music and film industries fueled his passion to help ensure that everyone has an opportunity to make a living from their art. His entrepreneurial adventures as a member of the Young Entrepreneur Council lead to being a contributor in Forbes , Inc. and Huffington Post , yet the coverage he received in Billboard Magazine for his work inspiring women to vote and winning a Los Angeles Film Award for screenwriting, are the kinds of passion projects that keep focused in the arts.
His personal mission to empower a world where children can grow up knowing that their dreams can come true, have kept him focused on Ink Different’s ability to succeed on its company mission, regardless of the initial resistance in the tattoo industry to equal access to education, and of course, the challenges of surviving a global pandemic where every location was forced to shut its doors.
Now on the other side of all of those experiences, Paul-Anthony and the team at Ink Different find themselves equipped with the experience and good fortune to be at the forefront of an industry that is professionalizing itself in new ways, and provide opportunities for artists that they desperately need. While we all know artificial intelligence has the potential to create massive job losses around the world, Paul-Anthony doesn’t think we’ll be trusting a robot to a four-hour tattoo session on anyone’s ribs, any time soon.
Owner, S.B. Custom Tattoos
Originally from Argentina, Gabe started learning the art of tattooing in 1982 and opened one of the country's first retail tattoo studios in 1989. He migrated to the United States in 1995 where he developed his skills not only as a tattoo artist, winning several awards in tattoo conventions across the country, yet also as one of the pioneers in Cosmetic Tattooing. His industry contributions in the early stages of microblading, permanent makeup, scalp pigmentation, and paramedical aesthetics, have led to two published books on these practices, with a special focus on areola simulation and scar camouflage.
With over a decade of experience in tattoo education, Gabe brings his experience as the educational mastermind behind Master Tattoo Institute and Oriana Tattoo Academy, to Ink Different. His passion for education, professionalism, ethics, and raising the bar for the future of the tattoo industry, along with his over 30 years of experience as a Tattoo Artist, make him the perfect fit as the National Program Director for Ink Different.
Owner, Marked 4 Life Group
Chico Cortez, the mastermind behind the renowned Marked 4 Life (M4L) Tattoo Group! With his passion for ink and artistry, Chico has turned M4L into a staple of the Miami tattoo scene. Alongside his amazing teams at Naomi's Tattoo Garden and Squrtin' Ink, he’s created a community that’s all about high standards and creative excellence.
Chico has also mentored various winners of the Ink Master contest, showcasing his knack for spotting and nurturing talent. His recent partnership with Ink Different marks an exciting new chapter in his mission to support the next generation of tattoo artists. Whether you’re a tattoo enthusiast or just curious about the art form, Chico and his crew are always ready to welcome you into their vibrant world!
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