In this episode of Skin Deep Stories, Montreal tattoo artists and moms Kirsten Diachidos and Melanie Belanger trade tattoo stories for hilarious tales from the classroom and the world of parenting school-aged kids.

With Kirsten's background as a former teacher and Mel's perspective as a mom navigating school life with two kids, the conversation is packed with funny, chaotic, and unbelievably relatable stories about children, teachers, parents, and the absolute unpredictability of school life.

From awkward parent interactions and brutally honest kid comments to classroom moments that could never be scripted, Kirsten and Mel react to funny teacher and school stories they found online while sharing plenty of their own experiences along the way.

The episode also touches on the reality of working with kids, how much teachers actually deal with behind the scenes, and why children say the most unhinged things at the worst possible moments. It is funny, nostalgic, and guaranteed to remind listeners that kids truly operate in their own universe.

Whether you are a parent, teacher, former student, or just someone who enjoys chaotic human behavior, this episode is full of laughs and "oh my god" moments.

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.

In this episode of Skin Deep Stories, Montreal tattoo artists and moms Kirsten Diachidos and Melanie Belanger are joined by one of Kirsten's oldest and closest friends, Shanna McCord. The two have been friends for more than 25 years, and this episode is filled with stories, memories, laughter, and some incredibly meaningful reflections on life, motherhood, and surviving hard seasons together.

Kirsten and Shanna look back on how they met as kids and how their friendship has remained a constant through every chapter of life, including relationships, marriages, divorces, motherhood, career changes, and personal growth. They share old memories, road trips, school projects, and the kind of friendship moments that only happen when you have known someone almost your entire life.

The conversation also includes the story of how Kirsten unknowingly played matchmaker and introduced Shanna to her now-husband, leading to a relationship that completely changed the course of her life.

A major part of the episode focuses on Shanna's experience with breast cancer, which she went through during the COVID-19 pandemic while raising a young child. She opens up about the emotional and psychological toll of treatment, motherhood during illness, and the importance of having people around you who show up when life gets hard.

Together, Kirsten, Mel, and Shanna talk about friendship, resilience, boundaries, motherhood, and the importance of surrounding yourself with genuine people who make life lighter instead of heavier. At its core, this episode is about loyalty, growth, and the people who stay by your side through every version of you.

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.

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.