1. EachPod

EPISODE 67: The Business of Tattooing with Rob Smead

Author
Ryan Roi
Published
Wed 14 May 2025
Episode Link
https://theartfuldollar.podbean.com/e/episode-67-the-business-of-tattooing-with-rob-smead/

In this episode of The Artful Dollar podcast, Ryan Roi shares a conversation with Rob Smead, owner of Electrum Tattoo Supply and host of The Business of Tattooing podcast. 


 


Rob and Ryan discuss topics affecting the tattoo industry today, including the intersection of art and business, the importance of marketing, and financial coaching tailored specifically for tattoo artists. 


 


Ryan discusses his journey from being a full-time tattoo artist to creating The Artful Dollar, a program dedicated to helping artists manage their finances, market their work, and achieve long-term success. 


 


The episode also highlights the role of the Association of Professional Tattooers (APT) in advocating for the industry, the challenges posed by increasing regulation and automation, and the future of hybrid tattoo artists who combine exceptional artistry with stellar business acumen. 


 


Tune in for insightful discussions, case studies, and a deeper understanding of the interconnected world of tattoo artistry and entrepreneurship.


 


Follow Rob Smead


Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/noflashninja/


Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rob.smead/


 


The Business of Tattooing Podcast with Rob Smead


Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/business_of_tattooing/


YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thebusinessoftattooing


 


Electrum Tattoo Supply


Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/electrumsupply/


Website: https://electrumsupply.com/


 


Join the APT


https://safe-tattoos.com/


 


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Chapters:


00:00 Introduction


03:58 Financial Coaching Journey


07:21 Success Stories


10:56 Challenges in the Tattoo Industry


29:42 The Role of Regulation and Education


47:30 Building a Supportive Tattoo Community


53:30 Ayahuasca Experiences and Spiritual Insights


01:03:36 Overcoming Judgment


01:26:22 Final Thoughts


 


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Are you feeling uncertain about what actions you should take to successfully market your business? You’re not alone. 


 


Get clear on what actions you need to take to book more appointments and create a sense of security and freedom. 


 


Book your 1-on-1 Marketing Strategy Session with Ryan Roi Now:


https://Theartfuldollarbooking.as.me/?appointmentType=67870225


 


This is for tattooers and shop owners who:



  • Have at least 1 year of FULL TIME, PROFESSIONAL tattooing experience

  • Ready to take a radically new approach to marketing (Not just a few tips and tricks)


 


On this call we will:



  • Take a look at your current approach to marketing

  • Identify what is stopping you from staying consistently booked

  • Offer a strategy moving forward


 


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Hear what people think about what we do at The Artful Dollar: https://www.theartfuldollar.com/testimonials


 


Find more Artful Dollar podcast episodes on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4P0j85W6U6tG6KTCTQidL4


 


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Follow me on Instagram-  IG: ryanroitattoo  


https://www.instagram.com/ryanroitattoo/


 


Check out my website- https://www.theartfuldollar.com/


 


#tattooartist #tattooer #tattoopodcast #marketing #marketingstrategy #marketingadvice #financialliteracy #financialcoach #tattoobusiness #artbusiness

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