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Skin Deep Stories

Skin Deep Stories

By: Skin Deep Stories
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Summary

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
  • Homesteading, Backyard Chickens and Burnout with Autumn Whiteside Wilson
    May 13 2026

    In this episode of Skin Deep Stories, Montreal tattoo artists and moms Kirsten Diachidos and Melanie Belanger sit down with local baker, maker, and entrepreneur Autumn Whiteside Wilson, the owner of The Lucky Craft and Hex and Harvest.

    The conversation dives into creativity, community, and the growing movement toward slower, more intentional living. From artisan markets and handmade goods to "gather and trade" events where people exchange creations without money, Autumn shares how meaningful connection and community support have become a huge part of both her personal life and her businesses.

    Kirsten, Mel, and Autumn also talk about the creative boom that happened during COVID, when many people rediscovered hobbies, artistic passions, and the courage to start small businesses from home. They reflect on how creativity can become a coping mechanism, a form of self-expression, and even a path toward healing and reinvention. The episode also explores homesteading, DIY culture, and the reality of balancing entrepreneurship with motherhood.

    From bread making and backyard chickens to running businesses while raising children, the conversation is honest, funny, and deeply relatable for anyone trying to build a life that feels more grounded and authentic.

    At its core, this episode is about following your curiosity, finding your people, and realizing that it is okay to learn as you go.

    Follow the hosts:

    Kirsten on Instagram: kirstentattooarts

    Mel on Instagram: melrocktattoos

    Follow Autumn:

    Hex and Harvest on Instagram: hexandharvest

    Book a tattoo or learn more:

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

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    59 mins
  • 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
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