From discussing what builds comfort in a tattoo shop to what the suspense is like before ink hits the skin, this event brought an authentic and empowering perspective on tattooing. This discussion between Taylor and Tina included thoughts we don’t usually hear from our tattoo artist community.

Embracing its permanence, using it as therapy, and letting go of control are some of the conversations held around tattooing. Towards the end, Taylor also hit Tina with a few rapid fire questions which may be helpful to watch for anyone who hasn’t been tattooed. To learn more about how tattooing and how art creates a therapeutic flow state for the artist, consider watching the full recording here. Click here to check out Tina on Instagram!

Biracial identities can be formed in vastly different ways growing up, and the transparency between speakers Taylor and Kiana in sharing their experiences created a sense of belonging and comfort throughout the zoom session. Kiana spoke on how they were treated at school, in relationships, and at home as a mixed Black AFAB, and how these experiences formed pride in certain areas of their identity.

In addition to Kiana's story, Dr. Taylor shared the differences in their interactions as a mixed Asian AFAB who spent a large portion of their childhood in Japan. Listen to the full recording here, where both speakers expand the discussion on their childhoods and identities. Click here to view Kiana’s Instagram account!

From discussing what builds comfort in a tattoo shop to what the suspense is like before ink hits the skin, this event brought an authentic and empowering perspective on tattooing. This discussion between Taylor and Tina included thoughts we don’t usually hear from our tattoo artist community.

Embracing its permanence, using it as therapy, and letting go of control are some of the conversations held around tattooing. Towards the end, Taylor also hit Tina with a few rapid fire questions which may be helpful to watch for anyone who hasn’t been tattooed. To learn more about how tattooing and how art creates a therapeutic flow state for the artist, consider watching the full recording here. Click here to check out Tina on Instagram!

As the discussion on bisexuality, advocating for all identities, micro/macro affirmations, and self expression unfolded, speakers Taylor and Zori built on ideas for it to evolve into a very rich and thought-provoking talk. Through Dr. Zori’s research on bisexual+ women of color, she was able to share different phobias experienced throughout ethnic communities and challenges finding support. This became relatable for many. Afterwards, they shared resources to properly support bisexual+ folks (bisexuality.org), and methods to advocate more effectively.

To gain a balanced understanding of intersections throughout identities, the full recording is highly recommended, which can be found here. Click here to view Zori’s links and explore her research further.

Partners Taylor and Thomas explored the relationship between hospitality and mental health during this discussion. Practices on cultivating a culture of care, understanding, and support in a hospitality setting were shared by Thomas, who has recognized these patterns from 18+ years of experience in bar and restaurant management. Their collective insight was able to bring light to the backend perspectives in hospitality that should be mentioned more often, such as communicating energy levels with your partner after work.

Click here to watch the full recording of their conversation, which goes deeper into intentionality, consideration, and mindfulness in hospitality environments. Click here to view Thomas’s biography.