Your Ink Story

Ande Lyons

1 Creator

Your Ink Story is a human interest podcast sharing the stories behind the body art folks wear.
Using tattoo art to highlight what we all have in common, seasoned podcast host and producer, Ande Lyons, shares fascinating, heartfelt and INKspirational stories from folks who express their lived experiences with body art.

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Top 10 Your Ink Story Episodes

Goodpods has curated a list of the 10 best Your Ink Story episodes, ranked by the number of listens and likes each episode have garnered from our listeners. If you are listening to Your Ink Story for the first time, there's no better place to start than with one of these standout episodes. If you are a fan of the show, vote for your favorite Your Ink Story episode by adding your comments to the episode page.

Empowering Ink Stories from a Breast Cancer SurThriver

Your Ink Story

11/14/23 • 40 min

“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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Your Ink Story Trailer

Your Ink Story

08/04/23 • 1 min

This is Your Ink Story, a podcast sharing the inspirational stories behind the body art folks wear.
I'm your host Ande Lyons, and every week I'll bring you fascinating and moving stories from guests' tattoo journeys.
I don't have a tattoo, but for decades I've asked folks with body art, please tell me your ink story. And their eyes would light up as they shared the stories behind their tattoos. And my heart would be filled with a deeper connection from learning why they permanently inked their body with that design.
You'll hear the stories about a tribute to a loved one, or an expression of one's personality and passions... to sharing a significant triumph, or the grief from a deep loss, or a reminder to keep going in spite of insurmountable obstacles and life's challenges.
It's my hope that these fascinating and moving short stories from all walks of life will leave you feeling more connected to yourself and to the world.
Those of you who have tattoos - you'll find INKspiration for your next design.
If you're like me, someone who has no prior experience with tattoos, you are going to learn so much about this amazing art form. And perhaps you'll soon be seeking a local tattoo artist for your new body art.
Please share your thoughts and inspirations from these conversations in the comment threads, wherever you're tuning in, or over on Instagram @tellmeyourinkstory, or leave a voice message via the mic icon located at yourinkstory.com.
Thank you for tuning into Your Ink Story! If you were inspired by a story you heard, it would mean the world to me if you would share, rate and review the podcast.
Waving from Boston and wishing you a delicious day everywhere you glow. Cheers!
Ande ♥

1 Listener

What I Learned from Interviewing Folks About Their Tattoos

Your Ink Story

02/20/24 • 5 min

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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The Story Behind a Beautiful Back Tattoo

Your Ink Story

11/07/23 • 32 min

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 ♥

1 Listener

A Story of Love, Remembrance, and Connection

Your Ink Story

08/24/23 • 23 min

Welcome back to Your Ink Story !
In this episode we chat about tribute tattoos with Preeti Adhikary, founder of the Great Nepali Diaspora, a community of global Nepali professionals.
As she reflects on her past, the impact of loss, and the importance of finding something meaningful to commemorate through ink, Preeti shares her personal journey, highlighting the importance of staying connected to our roots and finding our own unique ways to make a positive impact.
Preeti created her beautiful body art in honor of her late father, and it serves as a daily reminder of her father’s love, adventurous spirit, and the values he instilled in her.
With the help of a talented Nepalese tattoo artist, Preeti and her husband honored the memory of each of their late fathers by getting their tattoos at the same time!
Tune in to hear a conversation about love, remembrance and permanent connection. Perhaps you’ll be INKspired to hold onto cherished memories of a loved one with your own tribute tattoo.
Tap this link to learn more about Preeti, connect with her online, and then hop on over to Your Ink Story’s Instagram feed here to watch the video reel showcasing her precious INKspirational tattoo and her husband’s tribute tattoo.
Shoutout to Mohan's Tattoo Inn for Preeti's beautiful body art!
Thank you for joining me on this journey as we uncover the hidden stories beneath the ink and discover how body art can spark conversations and shape a more inclusive and understanding world.
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, inkspire 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.
Waving from Boston and wishing you a delicious day, everywhere you glow – cheers!
Ande ♥
Connect with Your Ink Story and Ande on Social Media:
Instagram: Your Ink Story and Ande Lyons
TikTok: Your Ink Story and Ande Lyons
Facebook: Your Ink Story and Ande Lyons
Threads: Your Ink Story and Ande Lyons
Linke

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Navigating Grief and Finding Healing with Tattoo Art

Your Ink Story

11/28/23 • 34 min

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 ♥

1 Listener

Tales of Tattoos, Courage, and Innovation

Your Ink Story

10/26/23 • 28 min

Welcome to an INKspirational conversation with Jaime Salcedo – a talented tattoo artist, a firefighter, a Brooklyn native, and the founder of an innovative numbing cream product he just launched called Painless Picasso.
Jaime is dedicated to using all his talents to serve others. With 13 years of experience as a tattoo artist, seven years as a New York City firefighter, and the founder of a product to help more folks get tattoos pain free, he has truly made a difference in people's lives.
While we were recording this interview from Jaime’s firehouse, the alarm went off and Jaime had to immediately stop talking and become a first responder!
Fortunately, we were able to pick up where we left off later in the day and finish this wonderful conversation.
Jaime got his first tattoo at the age of 16, began his tattoo artist journey at the age of 17, and his passion for tattooing grew from there.
You’ll hear the fascinating story of Jaime’s unconventional journey into the tattoo industry, and how he honed his artistic talent by watching and learning from his mentor and other artists.
Jaime also shares why he was compelled to develop and launch Painless Picasso, an all-natural numbing cream that numbs the skin before tattooing, piercing, waxing, and micropigmentation.
Listeners, if you've ever hesitated to get a tattoo due to the fear of pain, Jaime's product might just be the solution you've been looking for!
Visit https://www.painlesspicasso.com to learn more about this innovative product, and tap this link to see how you can add wind to Jaime’s founder sails: https://wefunder.com/painlesspicasso1
This episode is filled with insightful stories and experiences, offering a unique perspective on the tattoo industry and the artistic journey of Jaime Salcedo.
Thank you for tuning in and being a part of the Your Ink Story community. Together, we're celebrating and amplifying the power of self-expression through tattoos!
Tap this link to connect with Jaime on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/bknativenyc/ and be sure to hop on over to Your Ink Story’s Instagram feed to watch the video reel showcasing the powerful tattoos Jaime has brought to life for his clients.
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.
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 ♥

1 Listener

Honoring Loved Ones with Meaningful Memorial Tattoos

Your Ink Story

11/02/23 • 19 min

Welcome to Your Ink Story Podcast, where we dive into the personal stories behind people's tattoos.
In this episode we meet Amy Fagan, a passionate and inspiring individual hailing from Brunswick, Maine, and the proud owner of Amy's Garden Jam, a delicious jam business. She is also the host of the weekly podcast, Grounded in Maine, where she shares stories about how small, sustainable choices can make a positive impact on the planet.
During our conversation, Amy shares the story behind her first tattoo, which she got in honor of her beloved cat as part of a group tattoo event.
While it was fun to get inked with friends and family, there was an unexpected outcome for Amy. She had a very hard time managing the pain, turning the original in-depth tattoo design into a simple line tattoo.
In 2016 Amy lost her mom. In remembrance of their mother's love, Amy and her sister decided to get a tribute tattoo.
It’s two sweet little stick figure girls holding the string of a balloon that says "Mom."
But here's the extraordinary part: the ink in Amy's tribute tattoo contains her mom's ashes.
Amy’s incredible tattoo artist, Ryan Fleming, owner of Sanctuary Tattoo in Portland, ME, mixed her mom's ashes with the ink, forever etching her memory onto Amy's skin. It's a beautiful symbol of a forever connection.
Tattoos don't have to be extravagant to be meaningful. Sometimes, the simplest designs hold the most profound stories and emotions. Whether it's a paw print, a name, or a symbol, a tribute tattoo can serve as a beautiful way to remember and honor those who have touched our lives.
Don't forget to check out our Instagram feed to see the reel dedicated to Amy's meaningful memorial tattoos to her precious cat and beloved mother.
Share your own tattoo tributes or the ones that have touched your heart in the comments below! Let's celebrate the power of ink and the beautiful ways it allows us to honor our loved ones.
Thank you for being loyal listeners of Your Ink Story Podcast. Stay tuned for more captivating episodes, remarkable guests, and inspiring ink stories.
Tune into Amy’s wonderful podcast Grounded in Maine here:
https://www.groundedinmaine.com/
Learn more about Amy’s tattoo artist, Ryan Fleming, here:
https://ryanflemingtattoos.com/
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

1 Listener

The Appeal of Self Expression Through Body Art

Your Ink Story

08/08/23 • 20 min

Welcome back to Your Ink Story!
I had the pleasure of chatting with the talented artist, Jess Brett, a senior designer at Selman NYC, and the artistic mind behind the Your Ink Story podcast logo!
In this episode we dive deep into Jess's tattoo journey, unveiling the design stories and inspirations behind her captivating body art.
From finding the perfect tattoo artist to the symbolism and healing power of her tattoos, Jess shares her personal experiences and insights that will leave you feeling INKspired.
Getting a tattoo can be a bold decision, but for those of you who have found the beauty and meaning in ink, you know it becomes a transformative journey.
Jess shares her love of the process of getting a tattoo ... watching the setup of the station to witnessing the design come to life on her skin ... and she finds the experience to be meditative, feeling a soothing calmness wash over her and even dozing off during the session.
She also reminds listeners about the importance of waiting before you get a tattoo. Her rule: if I like the same idea for a full year, I’ll get the tattoo.
Tap this link to learn more about Jess, connect with her online, and be sure to hop on over to Your Ink Story’s Instagram feed to watch the video reel showcasing Jess’ many INKspirational tattoos.
Thank you 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: [email protected].
Please share your thoughts and INKspirations from these conversations in the comment threads wherever you’re tuning in ... or over on Instagram @tellmeyourinkstory ... or leave a voice message via the mic icon located at the bottom right of yourinkstory.com.
Waving from Boston and wishing you a delicious day, everywhere you glow – cheers!
Ande ♥
Connect with Your Ink Story and Ande on Social Media:
Instagram: Your Ink Story and Ande Lyons
TikTok: Your Ink Story and Ande Lyons
Facebook: Your Ink Story and Ande Lyons
Threads: Your Ink Story and

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A Tale of Time and Family Told Through Tattoos

Your Ink Story

08/08/23 • 19 min

Welcome back to Your Ink Story podcast!
Joining us is Rob Galvin, a Marine construction pro with an incredible collection of meaningful tattoos.
Throughout this episode, Rob delves into the personal significance behind each piece of body art, from his Dad taking him to get his first tattoo, to the art representing his deep love for his family, and the significant reminders to cherish every moment of life.
Fun fact: Rob loves to watch the tattoo artist bring to life each design. He finds watching the design unfolding through the needle therapeutic!
I was especially touched by Rob’s Jim Croce tattoo – Time in a Bottle – referencing the impermanence of life. The tattoo artist brilliantly captured the concept of time slipping away – with sand in an hourglass forming into a skull at the bottom of a bottle. A powerful reminder to cherish every moment!
As Rob shared: “Many of us have tattoos that remind us to seize the day and appreciate each moment, especially when we're away from loved ones. They serve as a constant reminder to savor the present and not let time slip away unnoticed.”
Tattoos have a unique power to capture our emotions, memories, and personal growth. Be sure to hop on over to Your Ink Story’s Instagram feed to watch the video reel showcasing Rob's INKspirational tattoos.
Shoutout to Jen Lee at Golden Hammer Studios for inking many of Rob’s beautiful tattoos!
Thank you 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: [email protected].
Please share your thoughts and INKspirations from these conversations in the comment threads wherever you’re tuning in ... or over on Instagram @tellmeyourinkstory... or leave a voice message via the mic icon located at the bottom right of yourinkstory.com.
Waving from Boston and wishing you a delicious day, everywhere you glow – cheers!
Ande ♥

Connect with Your Ink Story and Ande on Social Media:
Instagram: Your Ink Story and Ande Lyons
TikTok: Your Ink Story and Ande Lyons
Facebook: Your Ink Story and Ande Lyons

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FAQ

How many episodes does Your Ink Story have?

Your Ink Story currently has 31 episodes available.

What topics does Your Ink Story cover?

The podcast is about Society & Culture and Podcasts.

What is the most popular episode on Your Ink Story?

The episode title 'Empowering Ink Stories from a Breast Cancer SurThriver' is the most popular.

What is the average episode length on Your Ink Story?

The average episode length on Your Ink Story is 26 minutes.

How often are episodes of Your Ink Story released?

Episodes of Your Ink Story are typically released every 5 days, 23 hours.

When was the first episode of Your Ink Story?

The first episode of Your Ink Story was released on Aug 4, 2023.

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Your Ink Story

Ande Lyons

Top 10 Your Ink Story Episodes

FAQ

How many episodes does Your Ink Story have?

What topics does Your Ink Story cover?

What is the most popular episode on Your Ink Story?

What is the average episode length on Your Ink Story?

How often are episodes of Your Ink Story released?

When was the first episode of Your Ink Story?

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