Episode
Passion Over Wealth: Firefighter to Tattoo Shop Owner | TATTOO BUDCAST Ep. 69
- Podcast
- Tattoo Budcast
- Published
- Feb 24, 2026
- Duration seconds
- 6576
- Processing state
not_requested
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Summary
The Buds are back with a brand new episode, and this time we’re sitting down with Nestor Zelaya. James first met Nestor when he was still a fireman. You know, back when he had a “real job,” a steady paycheck, benefits… and allegedly more happiness. Now he’s a tattooer. So clearly something went wrong. Nestor walks us through what made him leave the stability of a traditional career to chase the chaos of tattooing. From immigrating to the U.S. as a kid and chasing the “American Dream,” to realizing maybe that dream wasn’t actually his, and deciding to build something of his own. He talks about learning to tattoo, opening his own shop, and redefining success on his terms. Naturally, we then take a completely normal turn into discussing the wildest way to get out of mandatory military service in a certain country. Because that’s how this show works. Nestor opens up about his humble beginnings, the life reminders that keep him grounded, and then closes it out with a Tattoo Cover Up story that will leave your jaw on the floor and almost left him… testicle-less. Yes. You read that correctly. So sit down, press play, and enjoy another episode of the Tattoo Budcast where stability is optional and the stories are unhinged. ----more---- Like & Subscribe to Our Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@TattooBudcast Follow on IG: https://www.instagram.com/tattoobudcast/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tattoobudcast Sanae IG: https://www.instagram.com/sanae_kawaii/ Jimmy Jam IG: http://www.instagram.com/iamjimmyjam Podcast Store: https://www.etsy.com/shop/TattooBudcast Dreamland Art Co: http://www.instagram.com/dreamlandartco NESTOR IG: https://www.instagram.com/zelayatattoos SHOP: http://www.instagram.com/fearcitylb ----more---- 🔥 BUDCAST EXCLUSIVE 🛒 15% off tattoo supplies 🌍 kingpin…