Don't Quote Me

Don’t Quote Me S3 E1: Frankie Williams

Season 3 of Don’t Quote Me begins with tattoo artist Frankie Williams, whose approach to tattooing goes far beyond ink on skin. In this episode, Frankie opens up about the responsibility that comes with permanent art, the importance of creating safe and intentional environments for clients, and how tattooing can become a form of emotional release and self-expression. The conversation explores mentorship, leadership in creative spaces, wellness within physically demanding careers, and the evolving culture of tattooing, especially for women in the industry. We also dive into: Why artistry matters in tattooing The relationship between vulnerability and trust Tattoo etiquette and client expectations Burnout, rest, and sustainable creativity How Grand Rapids’ tattoo community stands apart What still needs to change in tattoo culture today This episode is a thoughtful look at the human side of tattooing as care, collaboration, and connection.

Don't Quote Me S2 E12 || Omar Arredondo

Season 2 of Don’t Quote Me concludes with a powerful conversation featuring Omar Arredondo, whose journey reflects what it means to lead with intention, resilience, and community at the center. In this finale episode, Omar shares the experiences that shaped his path, the lessons learned through adversity and growth, and his perspective on building something that outlives any single moment. The discussion explores leadership, responsibility, personal evolution, and the drive to create meaningful change, not just success. Throughout the season, Don’t Quote Me has highlighted voices shaping culture, business, art, and community. This final conversation brings those themes together in a deeply thoughtful and forward-looking way.

Don't Quote Me S2 E11 | Alex "Big Al" Moran

What does it really take to pursue creativity full-time? In this episode of Don’t Quote Me, we sit down with Grand Rapids artist and entrepreneur Alex “Big Al” Moran. Known for his murals across Michigan, Alex shares the unconventional journey that led him to leave corporate America and pursue art as a full-time career. Alex talks about the mental battle behind creativity, why great ideas often come from sitting through discomfort, and what it actually looks like to build a life around passion instead of stability. From tagging murals as “Big Al” to navigating the realities of scaling an art career, this conversation dives into the mindset, risks, and purpose behind creative work. We also explore the transition from structured corporate environments to the unpredictable world of entrepreneurship, the role routine plays in creativity, and how artists can think about impact beyond just the next project.

Don't Quote Me S2 E10 || Jonathan Jelks

In Episode 10 of Don’t Quote Me, we sit down with Grand Rapids serial entrepreneur Jonathan Jelks to unpack what it really takes to build in today’s economy. From Sip Coffee & Cocktails to Motu Viget, cannabis ventures, hospitality spaces, and the Midwest Tech Project, Jonathan shares how he navigates risk, partnerships, failure, and long-term vision while staying rooted in community. In this conversation, we explore: Why diversification matters in modern entrepreneurship Lessons learned from ventures that didn’t work Building talent pipelines and investing in the next generation The balance (or illusion of balance) between work and life AI, automation, and the future of human-centered spaces Why resilience and toughness still matter Jonathan reflects on growing up in Southeast Grand Rapids, creating opportunities for others, and the responsibility that comes with success. This episode is about legacy, systems thinking, and building something that outlives you.

Don't Quote Me S2 E9 || Ximon Kittok

In this episode of Don’t Quote Me, we sit down with Ximon Kittok (they/them), co-founder and Executive Director of the Grand Rapids Trans Foundation, for an honest and deeply human conversation about trans identity, community care, and liberation. Ximon shares why transness isn’t monolithic, how joy and euphoria can be acts of resistance, and what it means to build systems of support for trans and non-binary people in West Michigan. We talk about the Foundation’s hands-on programs, and why community spaces rooted in dignity and compassion matter more than ever. This conversation also explores: * Why trans euphoria deserves more attention than trans tragedy * The importance of bodily autonomy and self-expression * How small, local organizations make a massive impact * What allies can actually do to support trans communities right now