We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Tony Montana. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Tony below.
Alright, so we’re so thrilled to have Tony with us today – welcome and maybe we can jump right into it with a question about one of your qualities that we most admire. How did you develop your work ethic? Where do you think you get it from?
I get my work ethic from my past, my struggles, and most importantly, my responsibility as a single dad. I know what it’s like to come from nothing, to have no one to rely on, and to feel like the odds are stacked against you. But I also know that the only way out is through hard work, discipline, and an unshakable drive to be better.
Every day, I wake up knowing that my daughter is watching me. She’s looking to me to show her what strength, perseverance, and integrity look like. I don’t have the luxury of making excuses or cutting corners—I have to provide, not just financially but emotionally and as an example of what it means to push forward no matter what life throws at you.
I’ve built myself up from some of the hardest circumstances, and I refuse to let my past dictate my future. I’ve quit bad habits, taken control of my health, and committed myself to being the best father and provider I can be. Everything I do is with the mindset that I am building a life for my daughter that is stable, secure, and full of opportunity. That’s why I work as hard as I do—because failure is not an option. She deserves the best, and I’ll make sure she gets it.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
I’m a tattoo artist, and for me, tattooing is more than just a job—it’s a craft, an art form, and a way to connect with people on a deep level. Every piece I create is personal, whether it’s telling a client’s story, marking an important milestone, or simply giving them something beautiful to carry with them for life. What I find most exciting is the trust people put in me to bring their visions to life. Tattoos are permanent, and that responsibility pushes me to constantly refine my skills and give every client my absolute best.
Beyond the art itself, I take pride in the experience I provide. I keep things professional but also value the connections I build with my clients. Some come in for the ink and leave as friends. My approach is about more than just the technical side—it’s about making sure every person who sits in my chair feels comfortable, respected, and confident in the work we create together.
Right now, I’m also focused on expanding my reach. This summer, I’ll be traveling and working in different cities. It’s a great opportunity to meet new clients, collaborate with other artists, and keep growing in my craft.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Looking back, three qualities that had the biggest impact on my journey were resilience, discipline, and adaptability.
1. Resilience – Life has tested me in ways most people can’t imagine. I’ve been through struggle, loss, and situations that could have broken me, but I refused to stay down. Resilience isn’t just about surviving—it’s about learning from every setback and using it as fuel to push forward. My advice to anyone starting out is to accept that challenges are inevitable, but how you respond to them will define your success. Get comfortable with being uncomfortable, because growth comes from struggle.
2. Discipline – Talent only takes you so far. Discipline is what separates those who dream from those who actually make it. Whether it’s honing my craft, improving my health, or providing for my daughter, I’ve learned that consistency and hard work matter more than motivation. My advice? Set goals, create habits, and follow through—even when you don’t feel like it. That’s how you build something real.
3. Adaptability – Life doesn’t go as planned, and success requires being able to adjust and keep moving. Whether it was pivoting my career, navigating personal struggles, or figuring out how to balance work and fatherhood, adaptability has been key. For those just starting out, understand that things will change, and you need to be willing to learn, evolve, and take risks. Stubbornness will hold you back—growth comes from staying open to new opportunities and challenges.
No matter what field you’re in, mastering these three things will set you apart. The road won’t be easy, but if you stay resilient, disciplined, and adaptable, you’ll get where you’re meant to be.
As we end our chat, is there a book you can leave people with that’s been meaningful to you and your development?
One of the books that has played an important role in my development is the Bible. It’s more than just a religious text—it’s a guide to discipline, wisdom, and resilience. Through all the struggles I’ve faced, the Bible has given me perspective, reminding me that no matter where I come from or what I’ve been through, I have the ability to change, grow, and build something better.
Here are some of the most valuable lessons that have stuck with me:
1. “Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.” (Proverbs 27:17) – The people you surround yourself with matter. I’ve learned to cut out negativity and build relationships with those who push me to be better. Life isn’t meant to be walked alone—having the right influences around you makes all the difference.
2. “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.” (Colossians 3:23) – This reminds me to give my all, no matter the task. Whether it’s tattooing, fatherhood, or personal growth, I put in the effort not just for success but because it’s a reflection of my character.
3. “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” (Romans 12:2) – My past could have defined me, but I refused to let it. This verse reminds me that growth starts with mindset. I had to change the way I thought, the way I reacted, and the way I carried myself to become the man I am today.
4. “A man without self-control is like a city broken into and left without walls.” (Proverbs 25:28) – Discipline is everything. I’ve learned that controlling my emotions, my actions, and my habits is the key to building a stable and successful life. Without discipline, everything crumbles.
The Bible has been a constant source of strength for me. It’s helped me through struggles, guided my decisions, and kept me grounded as I work toward becoming the best version of myself—not just for me, but for my daughter and the legacy I’m building.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Tattoosbytm.com
- Instagram: https://Instagram.com/tattoosbytonymontana
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/tattoosbytonymontana
- Other: Booking: book.squareup.com/appointments/sr1lh9yd7u5osx/location/L4ZBG07N4ENSE/services
Image Credits
Tattoos By Tony Montana
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