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Skin Deep Stories

Skin Deep Stories

Written by: Skin Deep Stories
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About this listen

Skin Deep Stories with Kirsten and Mel is where ink meets life. Hosted by Montreal tattoo artists, moms, and longtime friends Kirsten Diachidos and Melanie Belanger, this podcast dives beneath the surface to explore the art of tattooing and the stories that shape the people behind it. From their own journeys into the tattoo world to the pieces of art etched on their skin, Kirsten and Mel open up about life as creatives, entrepreneurs, and mothers. They share candid conversations about the tattoo industry, the balance between passion and parenthood, and the personal stories that fuel their craft.2025 Art Social Sciences
Episodes
  • Am I The Asshole? We Judged These Tattoo Stories So You Don't Have To
    May 6 2026

    In this episode of Skin Deep Stories, Montreal tattoo artists and moms Kirsten Diachidos and Melanie Belanger dive into the world of Reddit's wildest tattoo-related "Am I the Asshole?" stories… and they are not holding back.

    From relationship drama to questionable tattoo decisions, Kirsten and Mel react to real-life scenarios and give their honest, unfiltered opinions on who is right, who is wrong, and what could have been handled better.

    They discuss everything from partners trying to control each other's bodies, to copying tattoos, to tattoo artists crossing professional boundaries. The conversation highlights just how emotional, personal, and sometimes messy tattoos can become when communication breaks down.

    Throughout the episode, Kirsten and Mel emphasize the importance of respect, consent, and emotional intelligence, whether you are in a relationship, sitting in a tattoo chair, or working as an artist. They also unpack the fine line between personal choice and shared impact, especially when it comes to money, body autonomy, and long-term commitments.

    This episode is equal parts entertaining and thought-provoking, with plenty of moments that will have you asking yourself… okay, but who is actually the asshole here?

    Follow the hosts:
    Kirsten on Instagram: kirstentattooarts
    Mel on Instagram: melrocktattoos

    Book a tattoo or learn more:
    Visit wildmagnoliatattoos.com to see their work and book your next tattoo consultation.

    Keywords: tattoo drama, AITA tattoo stories, tattoo artist, relationship advice, body autonomy, tattoo decisions, tattoo ethics, Montreal tattoo artist, tattoo industry, communication in relationships, tattoo clients, tattoo culture, Reddit stories, controversial topics, tattoo shop Montreal

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    37 mins
  • Love, Ink, and Reinvention with Wild Magnolia
    Apr 29 2026

    In this episode of Skin Deep Stories, Montreal tattoo artists and moms Kirsten Diachidos and Melanie Belanger are joined by special guests Maryam Majdi and Robin Labreche, the owners of Wild Magnolia Tattoo Studio and Azalea Laser Clinic in LaSalle.

    Mary and Robin share the story of how they met back in 2007 at a tattoo shop, when Mary walked in as a client and Robin was the artist. What started as a connection turned into a long-distance relationship, and eventually, a life and business partnership built on trust, growth, and shared vision.

    The conversation dives into their journey as entrepreneurs, from building Wild Magnolia to launching Aelia Laser Clinic after recognizing a major gap in the tattoo removal industry. They talk about the importance of proper training, high-quality technology, and why doing your research is critical when it comes to any tattoo or skin procedure.

    Kirsten, Mel, Mary, and Robin also explore what it really takes to work with your partner, how to grow together instead of apart, and how personal evolution plays a role in both relationships and business. From transformation and reinvention to supporting each other through challenges, this episode is an honest look at building something meaningful, both personally and professionally.

    Whether you are an artist, entrepreneur, or someone navigating your own path, this episode is all about growth, alignment, and creating a life that reflects who you are becoming.

    Follow the hosts:
    Kirsten on Instagram: kirstentattooarts
    Mel on Instagram: melrocktattoos

    Book a tattoo or learn more:

    Visit wildmagnoliatattoos.com to see their work and book your next tattoo consultation.

    Visit Azalea Laser Clinic to learn more about tattoo removal.

    Keywords: tattoo studio, Montreal tattoo artist, Wild Magnolia, tattoo removal, laser clinic, tattoo artist, entrepreneurs, working couple, business partners, tattoo industry, skin treatments, permanent makeup removal, scar revision, women entrepreneurs, small business owners, creative entrepreneur, tattoo shop Montreal, personal growth

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    51 mins
  • Why Are Tattoos So Addictive?
    Apr 22 2026

    In this episode of Skin Deep Stories, Montreal tattoo artists and moms Kirsten Diachidos and Melanie Belanger dive into a question they hear all the time: Why do people keep coming back for more tattoos?

    They break down the science behind why tattoos can feel addictive, from the dopamine hit of anticipation to the endorphin rush your body releases during the tattoo process. Kirsten and Mel explain how the combination of pain, adrenaline, and reward creates an experience that is not just physical, but deeply psychological.

    The conversation also explores the emotional side of tattooing. From self-expression and identity to processing grief, trauma, or major life moments, tattoos can become a powerful outlet that keeps people coming back. They talk about the sense of completion that comes with building a sleeve or larger project, and why once you start, it can be hard to stop.

    They also share what they've observed in their own clients over the years, including why moms often make some of the best clients, how tattoo appointments can feel like a rare moment of stillness and self-focus, and how the entire experience, from planning to sitting in the chair, becomes a ritual people look forward to.

    Whether you have one tattoo or twenty, this episode will make you understand exactly why it is so hard to stop at just one.

    Follow the hosts:
    Kirsten on Instagram: kirstentattooarts
    Mel on Instagram: melrocktattoos

    Book a tattoo or learn more:
    Visit wildmagnoliatattoos.com to see their work and book your next tattoo consultation.

    Keywords: tattoo addiction, why tattoos are addictive, tattoo psychology, tattoo artist, Montreal tattoo artist, tattoo experience, dopamine, endorphins, body art, tattoo culture, tattoo clients, tattoo industry, creative expression, mental health, self expression, tattoo therapy, tattoo sleeve, tattoo journey

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    27 mins
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