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Craig Akey, owner of Empire Tattoos in Oklahoma City, has lived a life that could easily be the plot of a riveting drama. Raised amidst the chaos of his father's drug dealing world, Craig found a guiding light in the powerful women around him, especially his grandmother. Overcoming addiction and crime, Craig's story is one of redemption, set against the backdrop of a newly legalized tattoo industry in Oklahoma. Discover the pivotal moments of his life—like the birth of his first child—that inspired him to break free from his past and become a respected figure in his community.

Craig's journey from a tough upbringing to business ownership is a testament to mindset, personal growth and resilience. After reconnecting with his mother and receiving a lifeline in Blanchard/Newcastle area, Craig turned his life around, learning new values and work ethics along the way. Despite facing relapses and legal troubles, his determination to change was unshakable. From drywall to tattoos, he shifted careers with the help of mentors, facing the challenges of a newly emerging industry with an open mind and a commitment to improvement. His journey underscores the profound impact of family dynamics and personal choices on one's path to stability.

Beyond his personal transformation, Craig is deeply committed to community and creativity. With ventures spanning his Low Rider community, fitness industry, and tattoo subcultures, he fosters a collaborative environment among artists and gives back through charity events and community support.

His story reflects the importance of breaking generational cycles and finding strength in adversity. Listen as Craig shares how embracing individuality and surrounding himself with supportive communities has shaped his life, allowing him to uplift others while celebrating the small joys amid life's challenges.


Empire Tattoo- 2600 S Meridian, OKC 405-600-9475-Owner/Craig Akey 
...along with some amazing artists! Please go check them out!!!  Support your local tattoo artists!

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From Rock Bottom to Rock Solid.

We all have them...every single day, we wake up, we have the chance to make new choices.

We have the power to make our own daily, "Breakfast of Choices"

Resources and ways to connect:

Facebook: Jo Summers
Instagram: @Summersjol
Facebook Support: Chance For Change Women’s circle

Website: Breakfastofchoices.com

Urbanedencmty.com (Oklahoma Addiction and Recovery Resources) Treatment, Sober Living, Meetings. Shout out to the founder, of this phenomenal website... Kristy Da Rosa!

National suicide prevention and crisis, hotline number 988

National domestic violence hotline:
800–799–7233

National hotline for substance abuse, and addiction:
844–289–0879

National mental health hotline:
866–903–3787

National child health and child abuse hotline:
800–422-4453 (1.800.4.A.CHILD)

CoDa.org
12. Step recovery program for codependency.

National Gambling Hotline 800-522-4700