Why is it so easy for some of us to "scroll past" the intensity of this moment?

Right now, the energy across this country is vibrating at a fever pitch, but it isn’t being felt the same way by everyone. In Episode 3 of Colorful Pricks, we’re stepping out of the "vanilla" comfort zone to examine the invisible architecture of our lives. We explore the "fix-it reflex"—that inherited generational habit that tells us to resolve tension quickly, stay small, and disengage the moment a conversation gets too heavy or "gross."

We center this episode on a true story of a man whose life reveals a historical pattern of power that stretches directly into the headlines of 2026. We’re diving into the uncomfortable reality of privilege, not as a moral judgment or an accusation, but as a description of a system that protects some by default while pressing on others first.

Justin Nordine pulls back the curtain on his own journey of awareness, sharing a raw comparison between his experience as a white male with tattoos—an image he can choose to cover—and the reality for those who don't have the luxury of "blending in" when the world gets loud. This episode is a challenge to stop making ourselves small and to start using critical thinking to see the pattern for what it really is.

The problem isn't feeling uncomfortable. The problem is what we do next. It’s time to notice the space you’re standing in.

In this episode of Colorful Pricks, Justin Nordine shares his journey of self-discovery through art and tattooing. He reflects on his childhood experiences, revealing how he felt different from his peers due to his passion for the arts rather than sports. Justin discusses the importance of art as a language that allowed him to express himself and navigate the complexities of growing up. He emphasizes the role of listening in his career as a tattoo artist, where he holds space for clients to share their stories, which in turn has helped him understand his own truth and sensitivity.

As the conversation unfolds, Justin delves into the themes of acceptance, vulnerability, and the challenges of conforming to societal expectations. He recounts his personal struggles, including a suicide attempt in 2019, which served as a turning point in his life. This experience led him to embrace his authentic self and recognize the importance of holding space for both himself and others. The episode concludes with a message of gratitude for listeners, encouraging them to slow down and be present with their own experiences.

In the inaugural episode of Colorful Pricks, Justin Nordine shares his journey of self-discovery, healing, and the importance of taking up space authentically. He reflects on his past struggles, including a life-altering moment in 2019, and how it led him to embrace presence over performance. The podcast aims to create a space for honest conversations about the complexities of the human experience, encouraging listeners to share their stories without judgment. Justin emphasizes the need for authenticity and vulnerability in a world that often pressures individuals to conform to societal expectations.