B to Z

Brandon and Zach
  • 4.6 (5)
  • Self-Improvement
  • Updated Weekly

Mental health and wellness

  1. 02/14/2025

    Tattoo Chronicles: Wild Tales and Wisdom with Derek Billingsley and Kevin Childs

    HIT US UP!!! Send a message. What happens when two tattoo artists, Derek Billingsley and Kevin Childs, recount their wildest experiences in the unpredictable world of tattoo shops? From the absurdity of washing white wall tires in a bikini to the chaos of dealing with unruly clients, this episode promises a rollercoaster of laughter and jaw-dropping tales. Learn how these artists navigated the challenges of their apprenticeships and managed eccentric mentors, all while forging lifelong bonds ...

  2. 02/14/2025

    Ink, Resilience, and the Southern California Vibe: Kevin Childs and Derek Billingsley in Tattoo Artistry

    HIT US UP!!! Send a message. Join Kevin Childs and Derek Billingsley, two seasoned tattoo artists with over 30 years of combined experience, as they share their captivating journeys in the ever-evolving world of tattoo artistry on the B2Z Podcast. We celebrate personal milestones and discuss the profound impact of family life on their creative endeavors. Discover the allure of Southern California's vibrant tattoo scene through Derek's eyes, where the perfect motorcycle weather and spirited traditional tattoo culture bring a unique charm to Orange County's bustling studios like Newport Tattoo and HB Tattoo. Our conversation takes a deeper turn as we explore the resilience and growth born from personal and professional challenges. From the struggle of losing homes to the triumph of rebuilding client bases, Kevin and Derek reveal the lessons learned through adversity and the strength it takes to thrive in the tattoo industry. We emphasize the importance of learning from everyone, no matter their status, and the humility required to embrace innovation and creativity. Social media's transformative role in the industry also comes under the spotlight, as platforms like Instagram reshape client attraction and studio dynamics. Finally, delve into the creative processes that define these artists' unique styles—whether it's spontaneous bursts of creativity or meticulously planned masterpieces. We reflect on the balance between traditional craftsmanship and modern innovation, and the passion that fuels their art despite the industry's commercialization. The episode wraps with stories of personal inspiration and triumphs, promising more engaging content in part two. Stay tuned for further insights into the dynamic and fulfilling world of tattoo artistry. Support the show

  3. 09/29/2024

    Personal and Professional Evolution

    HIT US UP!!! Send a message. Ever faced a storm of personal and professional challenges and wondered how to keep moving forward? Join us as we kick off Season Two of the B2Z Podcast with reflections on resilience and growth. From Brandon May's battle with landlord issues leading to the closure of his Riverside studio to the emotional rollercoaster of attempting to buy a home, we share how these hurdles have shaped our journey. Through candid discussions, we emphasize the importance of pursuin...

  4. 06/18/2024

    Dark Fantasy and Inked Legends with James Warf

    HIT US UP!!! Send a message. Ever wondered how childhood inspirations can transform into a lifelong artistic career? Join us as we sit down with James Warf, a veteran tattoo artist with 24 years of experience, who shares his journey from painting rocks in his neighborhood to making a significant impact in the tattoo community. Discover the importance of working in personal spaces, the influence of mentors, and the unique blend of spontaneous and deliberate creative expressions that define his work. James opens up about his artistic process, drawing inspiration from iconic characters, dark fantasy worlds, and personal experiences. From oil painting to watercolor, he explains the intricate details and emotional depth behind each medium, giving listeners a peek into his creative mind. We also dive into his fascinating practice of transforming abandoned landscapes into imaginative landmarks, showcasing his love for both immediacy and long-term artistic investment. Beyond the art itself, this episode highlights the camaraderie and playful banter among tattoo artists, the emotional connections formed with clients, and the impact of travel on artistic inspiration. Hear about memorable moments, from humorous local legends to the profound experiences that shape a tattoo artist's journey. Whether you're an art enthusiast or curious about the tattoo world, this episode promises insightful stories, valuable lessons, and a celebration of originality and authenticity in artistic pursuits. Support the show

  5. 06/11/2024

    Tattooing and Triumphs: Mike McAskill's Story of Perseverance

    HIT US UP!!! Send a message. Ever wondered what it takes to transition from skateboarding to becoming a versatile tattoo artist? In this episode, we sit down with Mike McAskill, who takes us on a journey from his early years in Corona, California, to his rise in the tattoo industry. Mike shares his relentless pursuit of artistic perfection, his experiences with various styles like realism, traditional, and neo-traditional tattoos, and the invaluable lessons learned from both supportive and challenging apprenticeships. His story is one of resilience, continuous improvement, and a deep passion for art. Facing a severe back injury can be a life-altering challenge, especially for someone in a physically demanding job like tattooing. Mike opens up about his struggle with a herniated disc that left him grappling with intense pain and the difficulties of getting an accurate diagnosis. He recounts the emotional and financial turbulence during this period, shedding light on the importance of financial planning and the role of platforms like GoFundMe. From adjusting his hobbies to finding new ways to balance work and personal life, Mike's tale is a testament to the power of perseverance and proactive financial management. We wrap up by exploring the intricacies of client relationships in the tattooing world and the profound impact of fatherhood on Mike's life and work. From defining the qualities of an ideal tattoo client to discussing the significance of strong outlines and contrast in tattoos, Mike offers practical insights for both aspiring and seasoned tattoo artists. Additionally, he reflects on the joy of teaching self-defense through jiu-jitsu and the importance of personal freedom and expression in both art and life. Join us for an episode filled with heartfelt discussions, professional wisdom, and the transformative power of fatherhood. Support the show

  6. 05/31/2024

    Simple Pleasures and Generational Curses: Navigating Happiness and Legacy

    HIT US UP!!! Send a message. Ever wondered how the simplest pleasures can elevate your happiness? We kick off from Brandon's cozy home in Riverside, California, sharing heartwarming responses from our Instagram followers. Family and kids topped the list, sparking a deep dive into the evolving dynamics of relationships, young love's purity, and the complexities that come with age. Let's also take a trip down memory lane with Danielle's insightful episode and our viral YouTube hit featuring Brian Foster. Ever felt weighed down by patterns you can't seem to shake? We explore the concept of generational curses, discussing the impact these patterns have on our lives and the legacies we leave behind. From breaking cycles of poor financial decisions to striving for a lasting legacy, we share personal anecdotes and practical steps we're taking. The importance of documenting our lives in the digital age is emphasized, ensuring our stories inspire long into the future. What's the secret to finding joy in everyday moments? We reflect on positive feedback from past guests and the therapeutic effects of activities like skateboarding and cannabis. Simple pleasures, from fresh socks to nostalgic movies, are celebrated, along with the science behind fleeting moments of joy. As we embrace life's duality, balancing positivity with vigilance, our children, Lennox and Luna, join us with their charming insights, adding a personal touch to our exploration of happiness. Support the show

  7. 05/21/2024

    Ink and Empathy: Danielle McKnight's Journey in Tattoo Artistry and Life Mastery

    HIT US UP!!! Send a message. Ever wondered how a black and gray palette redefines the canvas of melanated skin? Dive into a heartfelt conversation with Danielle McKnight, a trailblazing tattoo artist whose 16 years of experience has seen her evolve from vibrant color tattoos to the intricate depths of black and gray. This episode isn't just skin deep; we traverse the importance of client education, the personal stories etched in ink, and the broader strokes of permanent makeup – including the...

  8. 05/15/2024

    Age of Resilience: Brian Foster on Art, Fighting styles, and the Quest for Inner Peace

    HIT US UP!!! Send a message. Embark on an intimate odyssey with Brian Foster, a tattoo virtuoso and Elizabeth Street Tattoo proprietor, whose life story is the stuff of legend—from his days in the armed forces to his battles in the MMA ring. Alongside, we unravel the tapestry of connections that define the tattooing fraternity, a world where artistry and comradeship intertwine. Brian's unguarded revelations about his advocacy for mental health and the visceral appeal of combat sports paint a ...

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Ratings & Reviews

4.6
out of 5
5 Ratings

About

Mental health and wellness

Information

  • Creator
    Brandon and Zach
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2025
  • Episodes
    23
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 B to Z
  • Show Website
    B to Z