Episode 3 - Structure Before Scale: Why Systems Matter More Than Ambition

Episode 11: What Can the PMU Industry Learn from Oregon's Recent Numbing Ban

Episode 11: What Can the PMU Industry Learn from Oregon's Recent Numbing Ban Oregon’s 2026 anesthetic clarification sparked major concern across the PMU industry, but the conversation goes far beyond one state. In this episode of The PMU Standard, Michelle Rukny breaks down what happened in Oregon, why it matters nationally, and the larger conversation around regulation, anesthetic safety, and professionalism within permanent makeup. This episode explores the risks of broad tattoo regulations being applied to PMU artists, the importance of education around topical anesthetics, and why advocacy and accountability must exist together if the industry wants long-term credibility and recognition. For more industry education, blogs, and updates, visit AAM PMU Board [https://www.aampmuboard.org/?utm_source=chatgpt.com] and sign up for the AAM email list. Follow the AAM on Instagram at @aampmuboard [https://www.instagram.com/aampmuboard?utm_source=chatgpt.com]

Episode 10: Eco-Friendly PMU and Tattooing

Episode 10: Eco-Friendly PMU and Tattooing | Realistic Swaps That Don’t Compromise Safety Can permanent makeup and tattoo studios become more eco-conscious without sacrificing sanitation and client safety? In this episode of The PMU Standard, Michelle Rukny discusses the real environmental impact of PMU and tattooing, where studio waste actually comes from, and the realistic changes artists can make without compromising infection control protocols. From biodegradable supplies and smarter ordering habits to the dangers of “greenwashing” and unsafe shortcuts, this episode focuses on practical sustainability, not performative marketing. A grounded conversation for artists who want to become more intentional while still prioritizing professional safety standards. For artists committed to professionalism, safety, and advancing standards within the beauty industry, visit www.micropigmentation.org [http://www.micropigmentation.org/] to learn more about board certification and membership through the American Academy of Micropigmentation. Stay connected with the AAM on Instagram: www.instagram.com/aampmuboard [http://www.instagram.com/aampmuboard]

Episode 9: How to Choose a PMU Trainer

Episode 8: Five Red Flags When Choosing a PMU Trainer Choosing the right PMU trainer can shape the entire trajectory of an artist’s career. In this episode of The PMU Standard, Michelle Rukny discusses five major red flags students should watch for before investing in any permanent makeup training program. From fully online courses and lack of hands-on supervision to unrealistic income marketing and poor post-training support, this episode breaks down the questions every future artist should be asking before enrolling. A direct conversation about education quality, industry standards, and building strong foundations from the very beginning. For more industry education, blogs, and updates, visit AAM PMU Board [https://www.aampmuboard.org/?utm_source=chatgpt.com] and join the AAM email list. Follow the AAM on Instagram at @aampmuboard [https://www.instagram.com/aampmuboard?utm_source=chatgpt.com]

Episode 8: What To Do When a Procedure Goes Wrong

Episode 8: What To Do When a Procedure Goes Wrong Every artist eventually faces a procedure that doesn’t heal as expected, but what separates professionals from amateurs is how they respond. In this episode, Michelle Rukny walks through a real-world protocol for handling complications, unhappy clients, poor healing, migration, asymmetry, and unexpected outcomes professionally. From documentation and communication to referrals, corrective work, consent forms, insurance, and recognizing patterns in technique issues, this episode provides artists with a practical framework for navigating difficult situations without panic or defensiveness. Honest, direct, and deeply important for any artist serious about long-term professionalism in the PMU industry. Ready to elevate your career and demonstrate your commitment to professional standards? Learn more about becoming board certified with the American Academy of Micropigmentation at www.micropigmentation.org [http://www.micropigmentation.org/]. Follow the AAM for ongoing education, resources, and industry updates: www.instagram.com/aampmuboard [http://www.instagram.com/aampmuboard]

Episode 7: Grant Funding for PMU Artists

Episode 7: Grant Funding for PMU Artists | Money Most Artists Never Apply For Many PMU artists qualify for grants and business funding opportunities without even realizing it. In this episode of The PMU Standard, Michelle Rukny discusses grant funding opportunities available for women entrepreneurs, beauty professionals, minority-owned businesses, and small business owners within the PMU industry. From the Amber Grant and IFundWomen to beauty entrepreneur grants and small business funding programs, this episode breaks down where artists can start looking, how to prepare, and why professionalism and organization matter when applying for funding opportunities. For more industry education, blogs, and updates, visit AAM PMU Board [https://www.aampmuboard.org/?utm_source=chatgpt.com] and sign up for the AAM email list. Follow the AAM on Instagram at @aampmuboard [https://www.instagram.com/aampmuboard?utm_source=chatgpt.com]