Welcome back to Your Ink Story Podcast!
Our guest, Andrew, is a PhD scientist working in the field of genomics, a black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and the founder of Third Ward Jiu-Jitsu, a nonprofit focused on LGBTQ+ Community Self-Defense in Houston, TX.
Andrew began his ink journey at the age of 18, with two panda tattoos on his calves. He had to leave his home state to get his first body art designs, because tattoo studios were illegal in South Carolina until 2006.
Today, Andrew has filled both leg and arm sleeves plus his chest with art that resonates with his heart and his life.
A doctor in pharmaceutical sciences, Andrew's ink story weaves between professional discretion and personal expression as his tattoos remain coverable, allowing him to navigate healthcare systems without conflict.
From vibrant pandas and beautiful wetlands to the symbolic depth of an Egyptian plague and Byzantine designs, Andrew's tattoos seamlessly blend dark and light themes, mirroring the dualities of life.
Andrew is also the founder of Third Ward Jiu-Jitsu, a nonprofit championing community self-defense and empowerment within the LGBTQ+ community in Texas—a mission that's as impactful as the ink on his skin.
Tune in to discover not just the aesthetics of Andrew's tattoos, but the stories behind them that encapsulate the essence of what makes his heart sing.
We appreciate your continued support and encouragement. With every download, listen, and share, you help us bring to light these deeply personal accounts that might otherwise go unheard.
Hop on over to Your Ink Story’s Instagram feed to watch the video reel showcasing Andrew’s many INKspirational tattoos.
Shoutout to the talented tattoo artists who helped bring Andrew’s body art to life: Zack Spurlock; Jason Wallstrom at Sea Wolf Tattoo Company; and
Jerm Joachicide at Serpant and the Rainbow Tattoo.
Be sure to catch up on previous episodes and subscribe wherever you tune or join our email list so you never miss the stories that make us unique.
Please rate and review this podcast wherever you are tuning in, and if this episode inspired you, please share it, so we can bring more people together, inspire connection, and ignite conversations that go beyond the surface.
If you or someone you know has an ink story to share on the podcast, please send me an email: ande @ yourinkstory.com.
Please share your thoughts and INKspirations from these conversations in the comment threads wherever you’re tuning in … or over on Instagram @tellmeyourinkstory.
Wishing you an INKspirational day, everywhere you glow
Connect with Your Ink Story and Ande on Social Media:
Instagram: Your Ink Story and Ande Lyons
TikTok: Your Ink Story and Ande Lyons
Facebook: Your Ink Story and Ande Lyons
Threads: Your Ink Story and Ande Lyons
LinkedIn: Your Ink Story and Ande Lyons
Subscribe to Your Ink Story's Substack here
Popular Podcasts
On Purpose with Jay Shetty
I’m Jay Shetty host of On Purpose the worlds #1 Mental Health podcast and I’m so grateful you found us. I started this podcast 5 years ago to invite you into conversations and workshops that are designed to help make you happier, healthier and more healed. I believe that when you (yes you) feel seen, heard and understood you’re able to deal with relationship struggles, work challenges and life’s ups and downs with more ease and grace. I interview experts, celebrities, thought leaders and athletes so that we can grow our mindset, build better habits and uncover a side of them we’ve never seen before. New episodes every Monday and Friday. Your support means the world to me and I don’t take it for granted — click the follow button and leave a review to help us spread the love with On Purpose. I can’t wait for you to listen to your first or 500th episode!
The Joe Rogan Experience
The official podcast of comedian Joe Rogan.
Stuff You Should Know
If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Josh and Chuck have you covered.