Tattoos With Intention Podcast

Mark Nara
Tattoos With Intention Podcast

Hosted by Mark Nara, Tattoos with Intention is a Tattoo Pathway Podcast that explores the deeper dimensions of tattooing – not simply as a trend or art, but as a living practice of identity, memory, and personal transformation. For those who sense there’s more beneath the surface, this podcast opens a space for reflection, story, and self-discovery. We speak with artists, clients, researchers and practitioners about how tattoos mark turning points, restore coherence, and align the body with one’s inner life. Explore more at http://tattoopathway.com/tattoos-with-intention-podcast/

  1. 20 APR

    30. Sacred Geometry: Meaning, Misuse, and the Hidden Order of the Body

    In this episode Mark Nara explores the deeper dimensions of sacred geometry – not just as a visual trend, but as a symbolic language that connects our bodies, our stories, and the cosmos. He breaks down the three layers of mathematics (quantitative, symbolic, and sacred), shares reflections on how geometry shapes meaning, and examines the risks of unanchored design in modern tattooing. Drawing from thinkers like Michael Schneider and Dr. Ibrahim Karim, this episode challenges the surface-level use of geometric forms and invites you to consider how tattooing can become a contemplative, energetic, and deeply aligned practice. Whether you're an artist, a seeker, or someone drawn to sacred symbols, this episode offers new insight into how geometry lives through us – and on us. LINKS Michael S. Schneider Shane Coley WHEN YOU’RE READY → Book a 1:1 consult with Mark →⁠ Get Tattooed by Mark → Join the FREE Community RECOMENDED NEXT EPISODE → 22. Shane Coley – Energetic Alignments and Ancestral Resonance in Tattooing SUPPORT THE SHOW Like this episode? Hit the like button and subscribe for more. Leave a comment if something landed – we’d love to hear from you.Know a brand or business aligned with our message? Sponsor or collaborate with us : tattoopathway.com/contact TIMESTAMPS [00:01:12] – What Sacred Geometry Really Is[ 00:03:42] – Quantitative vs. Symbolic vs. Sacred Mathematics [00:06:12] – Defining "Sacred" as a State, Not a Thing [00:11:30] – Geometry as a Study of Harmony and Creation [00:13:21] – Ancient Worldviews and the Language of Pattern [00:15:04] – Fractals, Spirals & the Holographic Universe [00:16:14] – Tattooing as Microcosm of the Cosmos [00:17:28] – Dark Matter, Spirals, and Galactic Intelligence [00:19:32] – Tattoo Placement and Energetic Alignment [00:20:58] – The Risk of Unanchored Geometry [00:21:50] – The Importance of Specific Placement [00:23:25] – Sacred Body Maps & Vertical Alignment [00:23:33] – Archetypes in Sacred Geometry [00:24:45] – Choosing Design Based on Frequency, Not Form [00:25:45] – BioGeometry and Shape Resonance [00:26:19] – Tattoos as Contemplative Practice [00:27:10] – Living Meaningfully Before Tattooing Intentionally [00:27:34] – Tattoo as Ritual, Not Just Transaction [00:29:19] – Final Reflections & Invitation to Go Deeper

    30 min
  2. 29. How to Mitigate Tattoo Regret with Research-Backed Guidance

    2 MAR

    29. How to Mitigate Tattoo Regret with Research-Backed Guidance

    In this episode of Tattoos With Intention, Mark is joined by Taylor, Tattoo Pathway's research lead, to unpack the complex topic of tattoo regret and how tattoos influence our self-perception and identity. Drawing from a comprehensive survey conducted last year, they dive into the most common reasons people experience regret and explore how tattoos can either conceal or reveal our true selves. Whether you're considering your first tattoo, reflecting on past tattoos, or exploring the deeper meaning of body art, this episode offers valuable insights. WHEN YOU’RE READY →⁠ Book a 1:1 consult with Mark ⁠ →⁠ ⁠Get Tattooed by Mark⁠ → ⁠Join the FREE Community⁠ RELATED EPISODES → 17. Ego or Integrity – Discerning the Two in Tattooing – with James Sherrah → 27. Pathways and Progress: Navigating Your Tattoo Psychology in 2025 SUPPORT THE SHOW Like this episode? Hit the like button and subscribe for more. Leave a comment if something landed—we’d love to hear from you. Know a brand or business aligned with our message? Sponsor or collaborate with us: tattoopathway.com/contact [00:00:00] – Introduction[00:00:25] – The Five Reasons for Tattoo Regret[00:01:35] – “Tattoos Are More Than Just…”[00:03:09] – Survey Overview[00:04:56] – The Meaning Changing Over Time[00:05:39] – Risk Window: Ages 18-25[00:08:43] – Internal vs. External Motivations[00:09:12] – Placement Regret[00:12:22] – Technical Dissatisfaction[00:15:22] – Artist Input and Influence[00:18:47] – Mismatched Expectations[00:28:01] – Tattoos and Self-Perception[00:31:10] – Revealing vs. Concealing Self[00:37:17] – Tattoos as Navigational Tools[00:42:20] – Self-Responsibility in Tattooing[00:46:00] – Mapping and Reflection[00:51:45] – Embracing Change in Meaning[00:55:20] – The Value of Discomfort[01:00:00] – Closing Thoughts

    1h 20m
  3. 28. Meaning and Resilience Through Logotherapy with Dr. Daniel Franz

    5 FEB

    28. Meaning and Resilience Through Logotherapy with Dr. Daniel Franz

    Welcome to the Tattoos with Intention Podcast, presented by the Tattoo Pathway Research and Education Institute! In this episode, Taylor, our lead researcher, engages in a compelling conversation with Dr. Daniel Franz—licensed mental health counsellor, addictions specialist, and expert in Viktor Frankl’s Logotherapy. Together, they explore how Logotherapy's core concepts—self-responsibility, resilience, and self-transcendence—can guide us in living a meaningful life. Dr. Franz shares practical tools for cultivating meaning in everyday life, emphasising the power of intentional choices, community connection, and using life’s challenges as opportunities for growth. They also discuss how living a meaningful life directly influences the experience of meaningful tattoos. If you’re searching for ways to integrate deeper purpose into your life and tattoo journey, this episode is packed with valuable insights! 🔗 LINKS & RESOURCES Dr. Daniel Franz: https://danielafranz.com/The Meaning Project Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCxNSpXYgXKQJU1iR-4n1GOA Man's Search for Meaning by Viktor E. Frankl: https://amzn.to/4hFAtr4 🔥 WHEN YOU’RE READY →⁠ Book a 1:1 consult with Mark ⁠ →⁠ ⁠Get Tattooed by Mark⁠ → ⁠Join the FREE Community⁠ 🖤 SUPPORT THE SHOW Like this episode? Hit the like button and subscribe for more. Leave a comment if something landed—we’d love to hear from you. Know a brand or business aligned with our message? Sponsor or collaborate with us: ⁠tattoopathway.com/contact 00:00 Introduction to Tattoos with Intention Podcast 01:00 Today's Episode: Conversation with Dr. Daniel Franz 02:12 Exploring Logotherapy and Meaningful Tattoos 05:08 Viktor Frankl's Legacy and Logotherapy 09:37 Self-Responsibility and Meaningful Choices 13:51 Turning Challenges into Growth 16:31 Self-Transcendence and Community 21:16 Practical Steps for Living Intentionally 26:39 Embracing Healthy Inner Tension 30:58 Exploring the Crisis of Meaning 31:42 Reframing Challenges as Opportunities 32:51 The Empowering Aspect of Logotherapy 33:35 Using Emotions as Signals 35:08 Practical Strategies for Navigating Inner Tension 39:22 The Hero's Journey and Personal Transformation 44:25 Building Resilience for a Meaningful Life 53:02 Final Thoughts on Meaning and Resilience.

    56 min

  4. 31/12/2024

    27. Pathways and Progress: Navigating Your Tattoo Psychology in 2025

    In this solo episode, listeners are invited to reflect on their tattoo journeys and the concept of 'dignified beauty.' Mark highlights the achievements of Tattoo Pathway in 2024, the importance of intentional tattooing, and the role of the community in supporting transformative experiences. Through the analogy of shoes and tattoos, he explores the discomforts and misconceptions in contemporary tattoo culture and emphasizes the need for guidance and careful consideration in the tattooing process. The episode sets the stage for the year 2025 with the theme of 'convergence,' aiming to bring the community together for co-creating a more meaningful and spiritually aligned tattooing experience. 🔗 LINKS & RESOURCES Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@themarkofnara⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠@tattoopathway⁠ 🔥 WHEN YOU’RE READY →⁠⁠ Book a 1:1 consult with Mark ⁠⁠→⁠ ⁠⁠Get Tattooed by Mark⁠⁠ → ⁠⁠Join the FREE Community⁠⁠ 🤩 LISTEN + WATCH MORE Watch this episode on YouTube → ⁠⁠Tattoo Pathway Channel⁠⁠ Prefer to listen? Subscribe on ⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠Apple⁠⁠ Explore more episodes → ⁠⁠Tattoos With Intention archive⁠⁠ 🖤 SUPPORT THE SHOW Like this episode? Hit the like button and subscribe for more.Leave a comment if something landed—we’d love to hear from you.Know a brand or business aligned with our message?Sponsor or collaborate with us: ⁠⁠tattoopathway.com/contact 00:00  - Welcome to Tattoos With Intention 2025 00:24 - Celebrating Wins and Aiming for the Future 00:51 - Building the Tattoo Pathway Community 01:18 - Exploring Contemporary Tattoo Culture and Psychology 03:13 - The Founding of Tattoo Pathway 05:25 - Understanding Dignified Beauty 08:10 - The Need for Guidance in Tattoo Journeys 11:11  - The Shoe Analogy: Fitting Tattoos to Your Life 14:13  - Dealing with Tattoo Regret and Misrepresentation 19:05 - The Role of Discomfort in Growth 21:07  - The Problem with Conventional Shoes 21:27 - Transitioning to Minimal Footwear 22:09 - Discomfort and Growth 22:49 - Tattoo Psychology and Confirmation Bias 23:59 - Tattooing as a Rite of Passage 25:08 - Comfort vs. Discomfort in Tattooing 26:26 - The Role of Tattoos in Personal Growth 29:49 - Tattoo Pathway: A New Approach 33:54 - The Tattoo Pathway Community 40:53 - Conclusion and Invitation to Join

    45 min
  5. 26. Lane Wilcken - Part 2: Responsibility and Preserving Sacred Traditions

    06/12/2024

    26. Lane Wilcken - Part 2: Responsibility and Preserving Sacred Traditions

    In this episode of the Tattoos with Intention podcast, Taylor from the Tattoo Pathway team hosts a profound discussion with cultural tattoo practitioner Lane Wilcken. As a scholar and advocate for the traditional tattooing practices of the Philippines, particularly Batok, Lane delves into the spiritual and cultural significance of these ancestral markings. The conversation explores the importance of emotional, mental, and spiritual readiness for both those giving and receiving tattoos, and the distinction between tattoo artists and practitioners. The episode highlights the rigorous process of becoming a practitioner, the ethical considerations involved, and the importance of maintaining integrity and humility. Lane also emphasises the avoidance of cultural appropriation and the necessity of connecting with one's own cultural ancestry. The discussion concludes with Lane advocating for a shift in mainstream tattoo culture towards more meaningful and sacred practices. 🔗 LINKS & RESOURCES Instagram:⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@lanewilcken⁠⁠Website: ⁠⁠⁠LaneWilcken.com⁠⁠Books: ⁠⁠Filipino Tattoos: Ancient to Modern⁠⁠ Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@themarkofnara⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ 🔥 WHEN YOU’RE READY →⁠⁠⁠ Book a 1:1 consult with Mark ⁠⁠⁠→⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Get Tattooed by Mark⁠⁠⁠ →⁠ ⁠⁠Join the FREE Community⁠⁠⁠ 🤩 LISTEN + WATCH MORE Watch this episode on YouTube →⁠ ⁠⁠Tattoo Pathway Channel⁠⁠⁠ Prefer to listen? Subscribe on⁠ ⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠⁠ |⁠ ⁠⁠Apple⁠⁠⁠ Explore more episodes →⁠ ⁠⁠Tattoos With Intention archive⁠⁠⁠ 🖤 SUPPORT THE SHOW Like this episode? Hit the like button and subscribe for more.Leave a comment if something landed—we’d love to hear from you.Know a brand or business aligned with our message?Sponsor or collaborate with us:⁠ ⁠⁠tattoopathway.com/contact⁠ 00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview 02:16 The Question of Worthiness in Tattooing 03:31 Lane's Journey and Advice for Practitioners 04:18 The Calling of a Tattoo Practitioner 06:15 Humility and the Tattoo Industry 07:32 Physical and Mental Challenges of Traditional Tattooing 08:43 Spiritual and Energetic Considerations 09:37 Rituals and Taboos in Tattooing 16:49 Gatekeeping Knowledge and Sacred Practices 29:36 Cultural Identity and Unique Designs 32:31 Understanding Cultural Sensitivity in Tattooing 34:21 The Importance of Qualified Practitioners 34:45 Revealing vs. Concealing Tattoos 36:03 Avoiding Cultural Appropriation 38:29 Researching Ancestral Tattoo Practices 43:26 The Mission of Kata'o Living Traditions 45:52 Challenges in Traditional Tattooing 50:05 Decolonization and Cultural Reconnection 53:22 Empowerment Through Ancestral Tattoos 55:17 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

    1h 4m
  6. 25. Lane Wilcken: Cultural Tattoos and Ancient Filipino Traditions - Part 1

    05/11/2024

    25. Lane Wilcken: Cultural Tattoos and Ancient Filipino Traditions - Part 1

    In this episode of the Tattoos with Intention podcast, host Taylor interviews Lane Wilcken, a scholar and practitioner of Filipino cultural tattoos. They discuss Lane's journey into the study and revival of indigenous Filipino tattooing, the cultural and spiritual significance of the tattoos, the role of tattoos in conveying ancestral guidance and social status, and Lane’s efforts to educate and restore traditional practices. Lane also shares personal anecdotes and highlights the importance of understanding the cultural context to ensure meaningful tattoo experiences. The conversation looks into how traditional tattoos are linked to rituals and health benefits, the process of earning and receiving tattoos, and the pitfalls of modern commercial tattoo practices.  🔗 LINKS & RESOURCES Instagram:⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@lanewilcken⁠⁠⁠Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠LaneWilcken.com⁠⁠⁠Books: ⁠⁠⁠Filipino Tattoos: Ancient to Modern⁠⁠⁠ Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@themarkofnara⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ 🔥 WHEN YOU’RE READY →⁠⁠⁠⁠ Book a 1:1 consult with Mark ⁠⁠⁠⁠ →⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Get Tattooed by Mark⁠⁠⁠⁠ →⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Join the FREE Community⁠⁠⁠⁠ 🤩 LISTEN + WATCH MORE Watch this episode on YouTube →⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Tattoo Pathway Channel⁠⁠⁠⁠ Prefer to listen? Subscribe on⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠⁠⁠ |⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Apple⁠⁠⁠⁠ Explore more episodes →⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Tattoos With Intention archive⁠⁠⁠⁠ 🖤 SUPPORT THE SHOW Like this episode? Hit the like button and subscribe for more.Leave a comment if something landed—we’d love to hear from you. Know a brand or business aligned with our message?Sponsor or collaborate with us:⁠⁠ ⁠⁠tattoopathway.com/contact⁠⁠ 00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview00:41 Interview with Lane Wilkin: Scholar and Cultural Tattoo Practitioner02:05 Lane's Journey into Filipino Tattooing04:34 Reviving Traditional Filipino Tattoos07:17 Cultural Significance and Rituals of Filipino Tattoos10:59 Challenges and Responsibilities in Cultural Tattooing18:25 Contrasting Modern and Traditional Tattoo Practices26:14 Historical Context and Cultural Erasure36:36 The Cultural Context of Head Hunting and Tattooing37:14 The Inclusive Nature of Cultural Tattooing37:21 Western Individualism vs. Cultural Tattooing38:07 The Wisdom of Ancient Tattoo Practices39:17 The Health Benefits of Traditional Tattoos41:17 A Case Study: Fertility Tattoos45:34 Modern Motivations for Tattooing47:13 The Intrinsic Functions of Tattooing58:06 The Navigational Aid of Tattoos01:06:15 The Transformational Power of Tattoos01:10:45 Addressing Tattoo Regret in Western Culture01:11:57 Conclusion and Final Thoughts FOLLOW Instagram:⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@lanewilcken Website: ⁠LaneWilcken.com Books: Filipino Tattoos: Ancient to Modern Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@themarkofnara⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Tattoo Pathway – Tattoo Education and Research Institute

    1h 13m

  7. 01/10/2024

    24. Essay | What is a Spiritual Tattoo?

    In the first episode of the new educational series, Mark unpacks the concept of spiritual tattoos. The discussion centres around the intrinsic connection between tattoos and spirituality, and how each tattoo symbolises an individual's journey and transformation. Emphasis is placed on the importance of intention, the pitfalls of commercialised spiritual tattooing, and the role of universal and personal symbols in this process. The episode also touches on the communal and ceremonial aspects of tattooing, self-responsibility, and choosing the right artist. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their motivations and approach the tattooing process with care and respect.  🔗 LINKS & RESOURCES Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@themarkofnara⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠@tattoopathway⁠What is a Spiritual Tattoo?⁠ - original blog post version of this podcast 🔥 WHEN YOU’RE READY →⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Book a 1:1 consult with Mark ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ →⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Get Tattooed by Mark⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ →⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Join the FREE Community⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ 🤩 LISTEN + WATCH MORE Watch this episode on YouTube →⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Tattoo Pathway Channel⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Prefer to listen? Subscribe on⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ |⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Apple⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Explore more episodes →⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Tattoos With Intention archive⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ 🖤 SUPPORT THE SHOW Like this episode? Hit the like button and subscribe for more.Leave a comment if something landed—we’d love to hear from you. Know a brand or business aligned with our message?Sponsor or collaborate with us:⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠tattoopathway.com/contact⁠⁠⁠ 00:00 - Introduction to Tattoos with Intention01:25 - Exploring Spiritual Tattoos03:31 - The Connection Between Spirit and Tattoo16:18 - Understanding Symbols and Their Meanings22:13 - The Role of Intention and Responsibility23:51 - Tattoos as Initiation and Ceremony29:52 - Choosing the Right Artist31:05 - Avoiding Pitfalls in Spiritual Tattooing34:43 - Conclusion and Final Thoughts

    37 min

  8. 05/09/2024

    23. Turumakina Duley - Reconnecting with Roots: The Power of Moko

    In this episode of the Tattoos with Intention podcast, host Mark Nara interviews moko artist Turumakina Duley. They discuss the significance of traditional Maori tattooing and rites of passage. Tu recounts his journey into tattooing, beginning with his childhood exposure to cultural performance and his deepening connection to Maori heritage. He shares insights from his doctoral thesis on rites of passage and the importance of re-establishing traditional practices within Maori communities. The conversation explores the psychological, communal, and transformative impacts of moko and emphasizes the importance of collective rituals and mentorship. Listeners are invited to delve deeper into the cultural and personal narratives that shape meaningful tattoo experiences. 🔗 LINKS & RESOURCES Instagram:⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@artselemental ⁠ | ⁠@tu_moko⁠ Website: ⁠Arts Elemental⁠ Books: ⁠The Power of Myth⁠ – Joseph Campbell⁠The Archetype of Initiation⁠ – Robert L. Moore⁠King, Warrior, Magician, Lover: Rediscovering the Archetypes of the Mature⁠ – Robert Moore and Douglas Gillette  Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@themarkofnara⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ 🎧 RECOMMENDED NEXT EPISODE → ⁠⁠⁠20. Tradition, Tools, and Transformation – A Conversation with Māori Artist Moko Smith 🔥 WHEN YOU’RE READY →⁠⁠ Book a 1:1 consult with Mark ⁠⁠ →⁠ ⁠⁠Get Tattooed by Mark⁠⁠ → ⁠⁠Join the FREE Community⁠⁠ 🤩 LISTEN + WATCH MORE Watch this episode on YouTube → ⁠⁠Tattoo Pathway Channel⁠⁠ Prefer to listen? Subscribe on ⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠Apple⁠⁠ Explore more episodes → ⁠⁠Tattoos With Intention archive⁠⁠ 🖤 SUPPORT THE SHOW Like this episode? Hit the like button and subscribe for more. Leave a comment if something landed—we’d love to hear from you.Know a brand or business aligned with our message? Sponsor or collaborate with us: ⁠⁠tattoopathway.com/contact 00:00 Welcome and Introduction00:50 Meeting Turumakina Duley02:52 Turumakina’s Early Life and Tattoo Beginnings05:49 Mentorship and Moko Revival09:00 Rites of Passage and Cultural Significance21:50 Challenges and Adaptations in Modern Times29:34 Morning Rituals29:41 The Importance of Rituals30:43 Reviving Maori Cultural Practices33:23 Global Initiations and Dark Shadows37:20 Tattooing as a Rite of Passage44:31 Mixed Genealogies and Cultural Connections48:35 Concluding Thoughts and Resources

    56 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
5 Ratings

About

Hosted by Mark Nara, Tattoos with Intention is a Tattoo Pathway Podcast that explores the deeper dimensions of tattooing – not simply as a trend or art, but as a living practice of identity, memory, and personal transformation. For those who sense there’s more beneath the surface, this podcast opens a space for reflection, story, and self-discovery. We speak with artists, clients, researchers and practitioners about how tattoos mark turning points, restore coherence, and align the body with one’s inner life. Explore more at http://tattoopathway.com/tattoos-with-intention-podcast/

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