The Truth About SMP Marketing Agencies (Part Two) Feat James Viola. EP. 132
Mon Jan 26 2026
In this follow-up episode of The Scalp Solutions Podcast, David Santiago sits down with James Viola, founder of Seven Figure SMP, to continue the conversation about marketing agencies and why so many artists get it wrong.
The truth is, most SMP and PMU artists don’t fail with ads because marketing companies are scams. They fail because their foundation is broken.
David and James break down what marketing agencies can and cannot do, why artists panic-hire when business slows down, and how weak branding, poor systems, and bad follow-up lead artists to believe ads “don’t work.” James also explains the difference between real agencies and boost-button consultants, and what actually makes an artist ready to scale.
You’ll learn who Seven Figure SMP is not for, what needs to be in place before running ads, and why a legitimate agency should act as a multiplier, not a savior.
If you’ve been burned by a marketing company, are considering hiring one, or want to understand how real SMP and PMU marketing actually works, this episode is essential.
Tune in, take notes, and remember… fix the foundation before you pour gasoline on it.
Connect with James:
IG: @sevenfiguresmp
Web: https://www.sevenfiguresmp.com
Todays podcast is sponsored by:
Hustle Butter Deluxe – The ultimate tattoo care product trusted by artists around the world. Whether you’re an SMP artist or tattoo professional, Hustle Butter keeps the skin smooth, reduces redness, and promotes faster healing—before, during, and after the procedure. 100% vegan and packed with natural ingredients, it’s a must-have in your setup.
Ready to elevate your client experience? Visit hustlebutter.com and stock up today!
Palms Fashion – Your trusted source for professional barber, SMP and beauty supplies. Explore their extensive range of products at palmsfashioninc.com.
WAVA Water – Spark your creativity and boost your focus with WAVA, the lightly caffeinated sparkling water infused with binaural beats of sound frequency. Designed for high performers, WAVA helps you stay energized, creative, and productive — without the crash. Ready to level up your hydration? Visit drinkwava.com and experience the future of functional beverages!
Bishop SMP – Since 2008, Bishop has set the standard in the tattoo industry, and now that same quality is powering the SMP world. From the SMP Power Wand built for precision and comfort, to SMP-specific needles and pigments engineered for flawless results, Bishop SMP is trusted by artists who want to elevate their craft. Ready to level up? Visit BishopSMP.com and experience the difference.
Micropigmentation Educators – A ready-to-use SMP & PMU training platform built for serious artists. Deliver real fundamentals with zero guesswork.
Visit MPEducators.com to get started.
More
In this follow-up episode of The Scalp Solutions Podcast, David Santiago sits down with James Viola, founder of Seven Figure SMP, to continue the conversation about marketing agencies and why so many artists get it wrong. The truth is, most SMP and PMU artists don’t fail with ads because marketing companies are scams. They fail because their foundation is broken. David and James break down what marketing agencies can and cannot do, why artists panic-hire when business slows down, and how weak branding, poor systems, and bad follow-up lead artists to believe ads “don’t work.” James also explains the difference between real agencies and boost-button consultants, and what actually makes an artist ready to scale. You’ll learn who Seven Figure SMP is not for, what needs to be in place before running ads, and why a legitimate agency should act as a multiplier, not a savior. If you’ve been burned by a marketing company, are considering hiring one, or want to understand how real SMP and PMU marketing actually works, this episode is essential. Tune in, take notes, and remember… fix the foundation before you pour gasoline on it. Connect with James: IG: @sevenfiguresmp Web: https://www.sevenfiguresmp.com Todays podcast is sponsored by: Hustle Butter Deluxe – The ultimate tattoo care product trusted by artists around the world. Whether you’re an SMP artist or tattoo professional, Hustle Butter keeps the skin smooth, reduces redness, and promotes faster healing—before, during, and after the procedure. 100% vegan and packed with natural ingredients, it’s a must-have in your setup. Ready to elevate your client experience? Visit hustlebutter.com and stock up today! Palms Fashion – Your trusted source for professional barber, SMP and beauty supplies. Explore their extensive range of products at palmsfashioninc.com. WAVA Water – Spark your creativity and boost your focus with WAVA, the lightly caffeinated sparkling water infused with binaural beats of sound frequency. Designed for high performers, WAVA helps you stay energized, creative, and productive — without the crash. Ready to level up your hydration? Visit drinkwava.com and experience the future of functional beverages! Bishop SMP – Since 2008, Bishop has set the standard in the tattoo industry, and now that same quality is powering the SMP world. From the SMP Power Wand built for precision and comfort, to SMP-specific needles and pigments engineered for flawless results, Bishop SMP is trusted by artists who want to elevate their craft. Ready to level up? Visit BishopSMP.com and experience the difference. Micropigmentation Educators – A ready-to-use SMP & PMU training platform built for serious artists. Deliver real fundamentals with zero guesswork. Visit MPEducators.com to get started.