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On the show
From 10 epsHosts
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Recent episodes
From Welding Booth to Robot Cell: Learning the Next Skill in the Trade
May 1, 2026
14m 57s
Why Backyard Welding Events Might Be the New Shop Class
Apr 27, 2026
10m 56s
You Don’t Need a Fancy Shop to Build Metal Sculptures That Sell
Apr 20, 2026
17m 38s
Welding, Health Setbacks, and the Hustle to Keep Going with Harrison Stone
Apr 13, 2026
26m 32s
Stop Chasing Clout with Aaron Wulk
Apr 6, 2026
21m 16s
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| Date | Episode | Topics | Guests | Brands | Places | Keywords | Sponsor | Length | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5/1/26 | From Welding Booth to Robot Cell: Learning the Next Skill in the Trade✨ | robotic weldingautomation+4 | Zebidiah Downey | Panasonic TM1100Miller Continuum+1 | — | robotic weldingautomation+5 | — | 14m 57s | |
| 4/27/26 | Why Backyard Welding Events Might Be the New Shop Class✨ | backyard weldingcommunity events+3 | — | Sparks and SawdustPhoenix Wood Shop | Phoenix City, Alabama | weldingcommunity events+4 | — | 10m 56s | |
| 4/20/26 | You Don’t Need a Fancy Shop to Build Metal Sculptures That Sell✨ | metal sculptureswelding+3 | Jackson Williams | WELDFabtech | Asheville | metal artsteel sculptures+3 | — | 17m 38s | |
| 4/13/26 | Welding, Health Setbacks, and the Hustle to Keep Going with Harrison Stone✨ | welding businesshealth challenges+4 | Harrison Stone | Weld.com | — | weldingbusiness+5 | American Welding ProgramWELD2 | 26m 32s | |
| 4/6/26 | Stop Chasing Clout with Aaron Wulk✨ | welding educationmetal art+3 | Aaron Wulk | SkillsUSAWeld.com | — | weldingmetal art+5 | American Welding ProgramWELD20 | 21m 16s | |
| 3/30/26 | Cutting Thick Steel: What Actually Changes When the Plate Gets Massive✨ | cutting thick metaloxy-fuel equipment+3 | Chuck Faught | Flametech ScorpionWeld.com | — | thick steeloxy-fuel cutting+3 | American Welding ProgramWELD20 | 21m 27s | |
| 3/23/26 | Ranking Every Welding Process We Could Think Of✨ | welding processesranking+4 | — | WELD20Weld.com | — | weldingMIG+6 | American Welding ProgramWELD20 | 14m 22s | |
| 3/16/26 | Starting Your Own School & Building Your Own Cars w/ Scott Raabe & Ian Johnson✨ | starting a schoolautomotive fabrication+3 | Scott RaabeIan Johnson | Precision Welding AcademyWeld.com+1 | — | weldingfabrication+6 | — | 36m 08s | |
| 3/9/26 | Using Your Welding Skills To Build Income On The Side✨ | welding skillsside income+3 | Sean FlottmanRobert Carpenter | Weld.comDabswellington+1 | — | weldingTIG art+5 | American Welding ProgramWELD20 | 22m 31s | |
| 3/2/26 | What Does It Take to Manufacture Welding Gear in the USA?✨ | manufacturingwelding gear+4 | Michael Furick | Weld.com | USA | welding gearmanufacturing+5 | American Welding ProgramWELD20 | 42m 49s | |
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| 2/16/26 | From Trash To Treasure: What It's Like Building For Scrapfest | In this episode, host Beau Wigington sits down with four Scrapfest artists to break down what the event is really like, how the categories work, what you can win, and why turning scrap into sculpture can be good for both your wallet and your head.Learn more about Scrapfest - https://scrapfest.com/ Save 20% On Related American Welding Program Courses With WELD20Use code WELD20 at checkout for eligible courses - https://foxly.link/9T3dtcConnect with the artists from this week’s episode - Jonny SniderInstagram - @jonnysweld https://www.instagram.com/jonnysweld/ Andrew SandstedtInstagram - @stalartist https://www.instagram.com/stalartist/ Steve KostInstagram - @dads357 https://www.instagram.com/dads357/ Tom AdamsInstagram - @tommy_atoms https://www.instagram.com/tommy_atoms/ Connect with Beau WigingtonInstagram: @beaudiditwelding — https://www.instagram.com/beaudiditwelding LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/beauwigington E-mail: beauw@weld.com | — | ||||||
| 2/9/26 | Every Tool Has A Story with Jimmy DiResta | In this episode, host Beau Wigington chats with maker Jimmy DiResta about the tools that shaped his craft, from a rescued line-shaft drill press to heavy old bandsaws, and the down-to-earth methods he uses to restore, retrofit, and actually use vintage machines in a modern welding workflow.Connect with Jimmy DiRestaInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/jimmydiresta/Facebook: http://facebook.com/diresta/YouTube: @jimmydiresta Connect with BeauInstagram: @beaudiditwelding https://www.instagram.com/beaudiditwelding LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/beauwigington E-mail: beauw@weld.com | — | ||||||
| 1/26/26 | One Truck, Every Trade | Dave Doherty’s Mobile Shop | Welding might be the headline skill on a service truck, but it's never the whole story. On this week's Podcast, Beau Wigington climbs into Dave Doherty's service truck to see just how many trades live inside one rolling toolbox. We explore the diverse skills and equipment necessary to operate a welding rig and handle a range of industrial jobs, highlighting the importance of a well-equipped work truck and the role of a field mechanic. If you've ever wondered what it really takes to run a service rig, this episode is for you!Save 20% On Related American Welding Program Courses With WELD20Use code WELD20 at checkout for eligible courses - https://foxly.link/9T3dtcConnect with Dave Dave “DTB Fabrication” DohertyInstagram: @dtb_fabrication https://www.instagram.com/dtb_fabrication/Facebook: Dave DohertyConnect with BeauInstagram: @beaudiditwelding https://www.instagram.com/beaudiditwelding LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/beauwigington E-mail: beauw@weld.com | — | ||||||
| 1/19/26 | High Level Skills Nobody Knows About: The Boilermaker Edition | In this week's podcast host Beau Wigington explores the career path of a Boilermaker within the welding industry while attending the National Boilermaker Apprenticeship Championships, highlighting the diverse skill set required for this industrial profession. We discuss "what is a boilermaker" and the importance of a "boilermakers apprenticeship" for those interested in "skilled trades." We learned that Boilermakers are a little bit of everything, incorporating elements of rigging, welding, cutting, and fabrication, making it a comprehensive "welding apprenticeship" opportunity for any aspiring "welder."Key Topics Covered:- What a Boilermaker is (rigging, layout, planning, tube rolling, waterwall “Dutchman” repairs) and why welding is only ~10–15% of the trade.- How recruiting for the boilermakers apprenticeship works at the high-school level and why tuition-free training changes families’ trajectories.- The “apply now” process through BNAP, finding your local, and why initiative matters (call, visit, show up).- First-year expectations: heights, tight spaces, heavy machinery, union basics (dues, benefits, dispatch).- Skill progression: Stick plate → positions → MIG/flux-core structure → TIG (freehand & walking the cup).- Work realities: outages, 12-hour shifts, precise repairs, x-ray quality, and packing out.- Career growth: no seniority; apprentices who show up and lead can run work and become foremen fast.- Finding your niche: some chase welding certs; others fall in love with rigging or planning and excel there.Learn More About Joining The BoilermakersBoilermakers National Apprenticeship Program - https://www.bnap.com/ Save 20% On Related American Welding Program Courses With WELD20Use code WELD20 at checkout for eligible courses - https://foxly.link/9T3dtcConnect with Beau WigingtonInstagram: @beaudiditwelding — https://www.instagram.com/beaudiditwelding LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/beauwigington E-mail: beauw@weld.com | — | ||||||
| 1/5/26 | Stop Buying Welding Gear You Don’t Need with Anthony James | At Fabtech, host Beau Wigington sits down with Anthony James aka “Meltin Metal Anthony” for a straight-shooting talk on where new and growing welding businesses burn cash, and what to buy instead. From grinders and torches to hoods, PPE, and shop layout, Anthony shares the gear that survives abuse, the stuff that fails fast, and practical ways to vet products at a trade show. They also dig into laser welding, automation, and how to prep your skills (and team) for the next decade.Key Topics DiscussedTools that pay for themselves vs. tools that fail: why cheap grinders and bargain rods often cost more long-term; when a low-cost flux-core box can still earn its keep.Welders & try-before-you-buy: using shows like Fabtech to demo MIG/TIG/stick, and the limits of testing engine drives on the floor.Torches that stay true: hard-earned opinions on Victor and older Smith gear; why some newer replacements disappointed.PPE that protects (and fits): pitfalls of bargain-bin clothing; the case for US-made textiles and consistent QC.Hoods that survive abuse: long-term experience with an auto-dark model (Optrel mentioned) vs. thin shells and short-lived lenses.Shop-build mistakes: poor layout planning, forgetting utilities (power, heat, downdraft, 3-phase alternatives), and failing to size for tables, forklifts, and workflow.Hiring & weld tests: “mess up the settings” as a practical screen for true competence.Laser welding & automation: what’s impressive now, code limitations today, and why technicians who can dial in machines will thrive.Mindset for growth: adapt or get left behind—how risk sports, preparation, and owning your quirks translate to business.Save 20% On Related American Welding Program Courses With WELD20Use code WELD20 at checkout for eligible courses - https://foxly.link/9T3dtcConnect with Anthony JamesInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/meltinmetalmobile/ YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@MeltinMetalAnthony Website - https://meltinmetal.net/ Connect with Beau WigingtonInstagram: @beaudiditwelding — https://www.instagram.com/beaudiditwelding LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/beauwigington E-mail: beauw@weld.com | — | ||||||
| 12/29/25 | WELD 2025 Recap | Viral Welding Hacks, Iron Man Hood, And More! | In this special 2025 recap episode of the WELD Podcast, host Beau Wigington is joined by Austin Hargett (Dr. Weldz) to look back on one of the biggest years yet for Weld.com.We break down some of our top performing videos of the year including Testing Viral Welding Hacks, Getting Dross Free Cuts with Plasma, and The Ultimate Guide to Weaving 7018. We also reflect on some of our favorite trips from 2025, from laser welding in Florida with Rex Alexandre, to visiting BZI in Utah, attending the Yeti Welding Competition, fly fishing out west, and asking Bo Jackson a question at Fabtech.We wrap things up with Maker Camp, where Dave took home Top Welder, and revisit some of our most memorable social media moments from the year. If you followed WELD in 2025, this episode ties it all together. If you are new, it is the perfect place to start.Key Topics DiscussedTesting viral welding hacks and what actually worksPlasma cutting tips for dross free cutsHow to properly weave 7018 stick electrodesLaser welding in Florida with Rex AlexandreVisiting BZI and attending the Yeti Welding CompetitionFabtech highlights and meeting Bo JacksonMaker Camp recap and Top Welder winnerViral welding social media moments from 2025Save 20% On Related American Welding Program Courses With WELD20Use code WELD20 at checkout for eligible courses - https://foxly.link/9T3dtcConnect with Austin HargettInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/dr.weldz/ LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/austin-hargett-2545ba20a Email - Austinh@weld.comConnect with Beau WigingtonInstagram: @beaudiditwelding — https://www.instagram.com/beaudiditwelding LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/beauwigington E-mail: beauw@weld.comDownload the WELD App: https://foxly.link/Qj0VEa | — | ||||||
| 12/15/25 | This Is Your Sign To Build A Go-Kart with Cars And Cameras | No description provided. | — | ||||||
| 12/8/25 | Job In Welding OUTSIDE Just Welding | In this episode, host Beau Wigington chats withJustin Lafond — applications engineer (ESAB) who calls the role the “Swiss Army knife” of welding support.Kaeleigh Wilkins — 3M Metalworking Application Engineer who moved from sales into a highly technical role without an engineering degree.Frank Vargas — national sales leader focused on relationship-driven technical selling in welding distribution.Cody Vigeant (American Welding Program) — on what makes a great instructor in today’s rapidly changing trade.Austin Hargett (“Dr. Welds”) — on staying energized as a welding instructor and balancing life, side work, and the classroom.Key Topics Covered:Why many high-pay welding careers don’t require holding a stinger every day (inspection, applications, distribution, education).Applications engineering: field problem-solving, process development, training, and customer saves—plus the reality of travel.No engineering degree? Mapping hands-on welding experience to technical job descriptions (Kaeleigh’s playbook).Distributor roles: technical sales and “solution finder” jobs that value people skills and fluent welding lingo.Teaching welding: avoiding burnout, finding the “small wins,” and staying current with robots/cobots.Future-proofing: adaptability and cross-process literacy as automation spreads.Memorable Quotes:“We’re the Swiss Army knives… expected to do all of it, anywhere, anytime.” — Justin Lafond“You can’t really learn our job unless you’re out there in the field doing it.” — Justin Lafond“I’m the only person on the team without an engineering degree… you can still be a fit if your experience matches the need.” — Kaeleigh Wilkins“The welding trade is moving at the speed of light—instructors have to stay keyed in.” — Cody Vigeant“The little wins from former students are what keep you going.” — Austin HargettSave 20% On Related American Welding Program Courses With WELD20 https://foxly.link/9T3dtcGuest Contacts:Justin Lafond - Applications Engineering (ESAB)LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/justin-lafond-5a650b313Kaeleigh Wilkins - Application Engineering (3M)LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/kaeleigh-wilkins Frank Vargas - National Sales Manager (Uniweld)LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/frank-vargas-0273a173 Cody Vigeant - Manager of Education Solutions (American Welding Program)LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/cody-v-b4a857145 Austin Hargett (“Dr. Welds”) - Brand Ambassador / Operations Manager (Weld.com)LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/austin-hargett-2545ba20a Connect with Beau WigingtonInstagram: @beaudiditwelding — https://www.instagram.com/beaudiditweldingLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/beauwigingtonEmail: beauw@weld.comDownload the WELD App: https://foxly.link/Qj0VEa | — | ||||||
| 12/1/25 | Homegrown 4X4 Van Conversions with The Swim Shop | In this episode, host Beau Wigington visits Justin and Seth Williams of SwimShop 4x4 to unpack how they convert GM G-Series vans into capable four-wheel-drive rigs, and the MIG welding habits that keep those projects rolling.Key Topics CoveredWhy van conversions? The rock-n-roll roots, “rolling living room” ethos, and first builds that sparked a business.Unibody reality check: why G-Series vans aren’t body-on-frame, and what that changes in your fab plan.The jig story: cutting a donor van’s underbody, flipping it, and welding it to a table to build 126+ kits consistently.Bolt-on vs weld-on: using existing van holes, minimizing welds to two key pieces, and where welding is still essential.MIG setup in the shop: clean metal, penetration, heat/wire adjustments, and why “don’t zoom in” can still be structurally sound.Parts sourcing workflow: diffs, transfer cases, running gear—how junkyards and Marketplace make the puzzle come together.Square-body compatibility: designing around ¾-ton Suburban geometry so catalog parts actually fit.Learning by doing: confidence, mistakes, and reading the puddle—why pinstripers make quick MIG learners.Community + momentum: YouTube documentation, events, and how niche builds find their people.Working with family: keeping shared interests, sharing space, and growing a shop together.Memorable Quotes“It’s a rolling living room… you can do wild paint, shag carpet—I had to have a van.”“We thought they had frames… then we realized it’s a unibody. Whole different animal.”“We cut the van’s underbody out, flipped it, welded it to a table—that’s our jig.”“Everything’s bolt-in using factory holes—only two pieces need welding.”“With MIG: clean metal, good penetration. When it clicked, it clicked.”“Just because it’s not pretty doesn’t mean it won’t hold—don’t zoom in.”“Anything that bolts onto a square-body truck fits our kit.”Save 20% On Related American Welding Program Courses Use code WELD20 at checkout for eligible courses - https://foxly.link/9T3dtcConnect with The Swim Shop 4x4Instagram - @theswimshop4x4 https://www.instagram.com/theswimshop4x4/ YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@theswimshop4x4 Website - https://www.theswimshop4x4.com/ Connect With Beau Wigington- Instagram: @beaudiditwelding https://www.instagram.com/beaudiditwelding - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/beauwigington - E-mail: beauw@weld.com | — | ||||||
| 11/24/25 | Some Of The Best Welding Education Advice We've Gotten... So Far | In this episode, host Beau Wigington chats with Mark Levin, Nate Bowman, Jason Becker, Adam Stretch, Justin Nixon, and Austin Hargit about welding education that matches today’s work, how accredited testing actually runs, and practical technique myths, so you can pass tests, pick the right training path, and build a career you’re proud of.Key Topics CoveredApprenticeship that pays: Why Welder Underground hires 18–28-year-olds at $15/hr to learn and how “show up on time + bring enthusiasm” beats prerequisites.Realities of training: Traditional school vs. modern apprenticeship; teaching through a live 18-ft sculpture build bound for Paris.“Teach for the job”: Why MIG dominates entry-level work and how to prepare for it without ditching stick/TIG fundamentals.Test day without panic: What hold points are, why skipping one is an automatic fail, and how an ATF routes your test.Certificate vs. certification: What actually counts in industry and the paperwork/logistics behind true certs.Technique myths with evidence: Push vs. drag (short-circuit vs. spray), polarity (DC+ vs. DC−) explained in plain language.Flux-core with shielding gas: Why it can look good yet break brittle—what’s happening in the flux chemistry.Inspection mindset: Basing welds on data and repeatability “10 times out of 10,” not opinions.Career ladders: From welder to CWI/SCWI, plus where NDT and phased-array UT fit.Social media as a help line: Getting accurate guidance vs. filtered hype; how to vet advice.Save 20% On Related American Welding Program Courses With WELD20Use code WELD20 at checkout for eligible courses - https://foxly.link/9T3dtcGuests’ Content & ContactMarc LevinFull EP - https://spotifycreators-web.app.link/e/b9USCroNxYb Instagram - @welderundergound https://www.instagram.com/welderunderground/ Nate BowmanFull EP - https://spotifycreators-web.app.link/e/Fm1dGXvNxYb Instagram - @weldscientist https://www.instagram.com/weldscientist/ Jason BeckerFull EP - https://spotifycreators-web.app.link/e/YZs86gBNxYb Instagram: @arcjunkiespodcast https://www.instagram.com/arcjunkiespodcast/ Adam StreichFull EP - https://spotifycreators-web.app.link/e/SjMHDYGNxYb Instagram - @akstreich https://www.instagram.com/akstreich/ Justin MixonFull EP - https://spotifycreators-web.app.link/e/VEG22HKNxYb Instagram - @thatclassy_diver https://www.instagram.com/thatclassy_diver/ Austin HargettFull EP - https://spotifycreators-web.app.link/e/UCaeIVQNxYb Instagram - @dr.weldz https://www.instagram.com/dr.weldz/ Connect with Beau WigingtonInstagram: @beaudiditwelding — https://www.instagram.com/beaudiditwelding LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/beauwigington E-mail: beauw@weld.com | — | ||||||
| 11/15/25 | Some Of The Best Welding Career Stories We've Heard.... So Far | In this episode, host Beau Wigington chats with pipeline, shop, union, rig, and underwater welders about getting started, choosing a path, managing money, and building a reputation that keeps you working.Key Topics CoveredPipeline reality for new grads, why most start as helpers, and how prior plant work translates to the right-of-wayShop welding as a launch pad, learning MIG aluminum at night, and stacking TIG reps until it clicksUnion entry routes, testing in late, and navigating attitudes when you do not start at Year 1Rig welder vs single-hand: what the truck changes about pay, expectations, alloys, and accountabilityUnderwater work safety, crew size, comms with cranes, tables, and why diver discipline mattersMoney talk without the fluff: per diem, overtime, and avoiding debt on lift kits and rimsNetworking that works: texts, referrals, timing, and demonstrating value before the testParenting and welding paths: why some stick to shops, shipyards, or offshore rotation for balanceMemorable Quotes“All you got is your name. Everything you do affects the work you are going to get.” — Joel Welch“I burned through pallets of aluminum wire and TIG’d couplings all day until it clicked.” — Keenan Maines“People are going to have a problem when you test in late. Prove what you can do and keep it moving.” — Laura King“Commercial diving is safe when you respect the procedure. Most problems start with the diver.” — Jordan Moreno“The machine does not start until 400 dollars.” — Kenny Stu“If I cannot afford to buy two, I cannot afford to buy one.” — Hunter Wilson“Overtime and per diem are the math behind ‘welders make money’.” — Liv Taylor DodgeSave 20% On Related American Welding Program Courses With WELD20Use code WELD20 at checkout for eligible courses - https://foxly.link/9T3dtcGuests’ Content & ContactJoel WelchFull EP - https://spotifycreators-web.app.link/e/ZVKXL0w5eYb Instagram - @welchwelding https://www.instagram.com/welchwelding/ Keenan MainesFull EP - https://spotifycreators-web.app.link/e/AZ5msfE5eYb Instagram - @metalsmasherart https://www.instagram.com/metalsmasherart/ Stan SherwinFull EP -https://spotifycreators-web.app.link/e/8OTdMaF5eYb Instagram: @ss_custom_welding https://www.instagram.com/ss_custom_welding/ Laura KingFull EP - https://spotifycreators-web.app.link/e/LEpJGFG5eYb Instagram - @lauraxking https://www.instagram.com/lauraxking/ Jordan MorenoFull EP - https://spotifycreators-web.app.link/e/OsB9IRM5eYb Instagram - @thatclassy_diver https://www.instagram.com/thatclassy_diver/ Jonathon HerreraFull EP - https://spotifycreators-web.app.link/e/ZGfRkNN5eYb Instagram - @jonathon_herrera23 https://www.instagram.com/jonathon_herrera23/ Kenny StewartFull EP - https://spotifycreators-web.app.link/e/yYzZlbS5eYb Instagram - @kenny.steww https://www.instagram.com/kenny.steww/ Hunter WilsonFull EP - https://spotifycreators-web.app.link/e/5Y7wLXV5eYb Instagram - @texaspipeliner35 https://www.instagram.com/texaspipeliner35/ Liv Taylor DodgeFull EP - https://spotifycreators-web.app.link/e/xXxAua15eYb Instagram - @livtaylordodge https://www.instagram.com/livtaylordodge/ Connect with Beau WigingtonInstagram: @beaudiditwelding — https://www.instagram.com/beaudiditweldingLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/beauwigingtonE-mail: beauw@weld.com | — | ||||||
| 11/10/25 | The Best Metal Art Advice We've Gotten.... So Far | Host Beau Wigington revisits standout moments from metal artists who turned sparks into careers. You will hear practical safety, process, and career advice from creators who weld sculptures, bikes, tanks, wildlife art, and even giant instruments. Key Topics CoveredWhy “failures” are usually redirections and how to use them to grow your craftOxy-acetylene as a lost-but-powerful gateway to understanding metal behaviorOxy-fuel safety, from first-time “pops” to tank awareness and best practicesTIG art workflow, tracing with a laser, clamps vs welding down, and chill platesGetting consistent color in stainless TIG art using cup size and gas lensesWelding copper for fuel tanks, heat control, filler strategy, and leak riskLetting the sculpture “tell you” what to build, and iterating without fearUsing CAD to plan scrap-metal builds when materials are unpredictablePromotion that works for artists, from mags and photos to simple outreachWhy networking at industry events can unlock commissions and collaborations“Failures are not failures, they are redirections. Walk through those chapters, even the bad ones.” — Rae Ripple“Oxy-acetylene is a great gateway process. You are one with the metal, watching fusion happen.” — David Madero“For TIG art, I clamp to a chill plate. I hate grinding, so I avoid welding pieces down.” — Clint Evashkevich “I make my own copper filler from the base metal so the polish hides the seam.” — Jesse James“No two-dimensional picture does a sculpture justice. CAD helped me see it from all angles.” — Rich QuinnSave 20% On Related American Welding Program Courses With WELD20Use code WELD20 at checkout for eligible courses - https://foxly.link/9T3dtcConnect With The GuestsRae RippleFull EP - https://spotifycreators-web.app.link/e/S5uuhqQW6Xb Instagram - @raeripple https://www.instagram.com/raeripple YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@rae.rippleWebsite - www.raeripple.comDavid MaderoFull EP - https://spotifycreators-web.app.link/e/RybaimdX6Xb Instagram - @madero.co https://www.instagram.com/madero_co/ YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@MaderoCo Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/company/madero-co. Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/MaderoCo/ Clint EvashkevichFull EP - https://spotifycreators-web.app.link/e/lIhNTjkX6Xb Instagram: @theonyxgrovecompany https://www.instagram.com/theonyxgrovecompany/ YouTube: http://www.facebook.com/theonyxgrovecompany Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/theonyxgrovecompany TikTok: @the_onyx_grove_company https://www.tiktok.com/@the_onyx_grove_company Website: https://www.theonyxgrovecompany.com/ Jesse JamesFull EP - https://spotifycreators-web.app.link/e/XrpB0HoX6Xb Website https://jessejames.com/West Coast Choppers https://westcoastchoppers.com/Instagram @popeofwelding https://www.instagram.com/popeofweldingOutlaw TV - https://otlw.tv/ Rich QuinnFull EP - https://spotifycreators-web.app.link/e/4FJ46mxX6Xb Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/quinn_metal_art/ Scrapfest - https://scrapfest.com/ Billy Moulton DayFull EP - https://spotifycreators-web.app.link/e/U7cMDZKW6Xb Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/w.moultonday_sculpture Website - https://www.wmdsculpture.co.uk/ Ivan IlerFull EP - https://spotifycreators-web.app.link/e/GIOKmTPX6Xb Website - https://www.ivanilerstudios.com/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/ivan_iler Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/ivanilerstudios Codie AljetsFull EP - https://spotifycreators-web.app.link/e/a3xmakJybYbWebsite - https://www.codiealjetsart.com/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/sagecountrycustomsFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/codie.aljets/Connect with Beau WigingtonInstagram: @beaudiditwelding https://www.instagram.com/beaudiditwelding LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/beauwigington E-mail: beauw@weld.comDownload the WELD App: https://foxly.link/Qj0VEa | — | ||||||
| 11/3/25 | Some Of The Best Welding Business Advice We've Gotten.... So Far | In this episode, host Beau Wigington pulls together the most practical, hard-won business advice shared on WELD over the past three years—everything from getting your first customers and pricing your time, to choosing insurance, building a team, and using short-form video to keep orders flowing. Key Topics CoveredWhy reliability beats “stacking dimes” perfectionism for business growth (show up, do what you say)Budgeting and bootstrapping: paying down debt, selling online, and reinvesting in toolsSocial media that sells: consistent short-form posting, showing your face, and treating content as a productGetting legal and protected: LLCs, accountants, business banking, and choosing the right insurance brokerKnowing when to hire: escaping burnout, delegating office work, and building a small, capable teamCulture that retains welders: safe shops, good lighting, respect, and clear values people can rally aroundMobile welding startup basics: van setup, Google Ads, word of mouth, and keeping a “day-job safety net”Skill growth for beginners: daily reps, letting learning compound, and not chasing “perfect”Sales fundamentals: websites, clear branding, phone numbers on trucks, and simple prospecting habitsMemorable Quotes“You don’t have to be the best welder on earth. Show up on time, do what you say, and be a person of your word.” — Anthony (Melton Metal Anthony)“If you’re a maker on YouTube, the video is the product—not the project.” — John Malecki“We couldn’t afford marketing—so we posted. Consistently.” — Jason & Miranda (Shass on Smoke)“File the LLC, hire a good accountant, and stop trying to do it all alone.” — Luke Labdie“Get decent insurance and learn the terms they want to hear—answer only what’s asked.” — Kevin Johnson (JMW Fabrication)“If you want a world-class team, create the kind of place world-class people want to work.” — Matthew Nix (Nix Industrial)Save 20% On American Welding Program Courses Use code WELD20 - https://foxly.link/9T3dtcConnect With The GuestsAnthony James Full EP - https://spotifycreators-web.app.link/e/kal9F3kNUXb Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/meltinmetalmobile/ YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHt5K7OkaBivUMvwn9W9ppw Website - https://meltinmetal.com/ Jason & Miranda Chiasson Full EP - https://spotifycreators-web.app.link/e/LQanfTINUXb Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/chiassonsmoke/ YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmthizFiUZOPJGHSDLQl4-A Website - https://www.chiassonsmoke.com/ John MaleckiFull EP - https://spotifycreators-web.app.link/e/ZYAlnNONUXb Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/john_malecki/ YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@JohnMaleckiUnscrewed YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@John_Malecki Website - johnmalecki.com Luke LabdieFull EP - https://spotifycreators-web.app.link/e/8mb48DwOUXb Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/aaweldfab/ TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@lukethewelder Website - https://aaweldfab.com/ Kevin JohnsonFull EP - https://spotifycreators-web.app.link/e/E7z6nEdPUXb Welding Business Owners Podcast - https://www.weldingbusinessownerspodcast.com/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/weldingbusinessownerspodcast/?hl=en Fabricator Olympics - https://www.fabricatorolympics.com/ Oliver Adamson Full EP - https://spotifycreators-web.app.link/e/lFvs4LbQUXb Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/citizen_build/?hl=en Website - https://citizenbuild.co/ Matthew Nix Full EP - https://spotifycreators-web.app.link/e/OpFUQohQUXb Website - https://www.nixcompanies.com/ Calvin GordonFull EP - https://spotifycreators-web.app.link/e/eN8uN3kQUXb Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/arconewelding/ YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@ARCONEWELDINGWebsite - https://www.arc1welding.com/ Connect with Beau WigingtonInstagram: @beaudiditwelding — https://www.instagram.com/beaudiditwelding LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/beauwigington E-mail: beauw@weld.com | — | ||||||
| 10/20/25 | Finding Prime Cuts with Hero Machine Co. | In this episode, host Beau Wigington chats with Adam Heffner (Hero Machine Co.) about his unconventional journey from a third-generation butcher to ironworker to fabricator, and why many small shops hit a tipping point where a 2 kW fiber laser on single-phase power outperforms plasma for cost, time, and quality. Recorded at FABTECH from the Hero Machine Co. booth, Adam breaks down real numbers on consumables, cleanup time, and when to make the jump from plasma to laser.Key Topics Covered:Business is a trade, too: why fab skills need business skills to turn into profit.From side hustle to shop: working “7-10s” for three years to de-risk going full-time.Insurance realities: how coverage limits push new shops toward non-critical work early on.Plasma → Laser math: the break-even window around 40–55 cutting hours/month.Consumables & cleanup: plasma (~$30/1,000 pierces + ~1 hr cleanup per cutting hour) vs. laser ($6 lower lens/week + ~5 minutes cleanup per cutting hour).Power & air you already have: running a 2 kW laser on 220V single-phase with a standard ~10 HP compressor + dryer.Cut capacity: 2 kW fiber laser cutting 5/8" mild steel—and why power isn’t the whole story.Build vs. buy: lessons from DIY presses and tables, and why support/QC matter.Supply chain + QC: avoiding bait-and-switch by inspecting at the source.Winning architectural work: translating “pretty” drawings into constructible submittals, staying on schedule, and protecting margin when delays escalate.Systems that scale: MRP, workstations, and process flow so the shop runs on rails.The “Hero” idea: giving small shops a superpower that lets them price competitively and win bids.Memorable Quotes:“Business is a trade, just like metal fabrication.”“If you’re cutting more than ~40–55 hours a month, you really should have a laser.”“You can unplug your plasma table and be cutting 5/8" mild steel on a 2 kW fiber laser, on single-phase 220V.”“My mantra was: make the means of production.”“I didn’t want to die with a dream.”Learn more Hero Machine Co.Website - https://heromachineco.com/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61574579615110 Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/heromachineco YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3LhWJjQrF4bmbdffkSbE8A Connect with Beau WigingtonInstagram: @beaudiditwelding https://www.instagram.com/beaudiditwelding LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/beauwigington E-Mail : beauw@weld.com | — | ||||||
| 10/13/25 | Where Is Your Welding Business Losing Money? | Host Beau Wigington chats with Bill Pharmer (National Senior Director of Advanced Fabrication, Airgas) and Bryan Thomas (National Director of Package Gas Services, Airgas) at FABTECH about unlocking the hidden cost of welding. You’ll hear how to spot leaks in your workflow including spatter, over-welding, wrong gas selection, slow change-outs, and how small fixes compound into cleaner welds, faster throughput, and healthier margins.Key Topics Covered:Why labor dominates cost per weld foot (≈85–90%) and how to focus on the variables that actually move profit.Baseline first: measure wire-feed speed, amperage/voltage, travel speed, gas flow, gas type, burn time, and consumable usage.Operator Factor (arc-on time ÷ total time) as the north-star KPI for rework and throughput.Common profit leaks: loose electrical connections and resistance, poor gas-to-wire ratios, excessive gas flow (“blasting”), and “75/25 for everything.”Over-welding math that hurts: a weld spec’d at 3/16" laid at 5/16" is ~78% more labor, wire, and gas, for zero added value.KPIs that tell on your process: wire-to-contact-tip ratio, gas-to-wire ratio, melt-off rates, and contact-tip consumption patterns.ARCAL® in five mixes (Prime, Flux, Speed, Force, Chrome): when to choose each to improve cleanliness, penetration, and speed without helium guesswork.Change-out efficiency: how Viper (valve-integrated pressure regulator) and quick-connects cut 10–15 minute bottle swaps, protect calibration, and maintain consistent flow to low pressure.Tracking improvement: digital welding efficiency analysis when available; simple manual logs and calculations when it’s not.Change management that sticks: coach, show results, and iterate—don’t just “turn the knobs and leave.”Memorable Quotes:“Spatter is rework and that does nothing but eat up the labor piece.”“Labor is at least 85% of your cost per weld foot; gas and wire are the small slice.”“If it’s over-welded by 1/16", you’ve over-welded it by ~78% too much labor, too much wire, too much gas.”“The first thing everyone blames is “bad gas ". I promise you it’s usually not that.”Learn More About AirgasUnlocking the Hidden Cost of Welding™ program - https://www.airgas.com/industries/metal-fabrication/products-and-services/unlocking-hidden-cost-of-weldingARCAL™ Gas - https://www.airgas.com/solutions/arcalContact the Advanced Fabrication team at Airgas - AdvancedFab@airgas.comWebsite - https://www.airgas.com/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/airgasusa/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/airgas LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/airgas YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzsrLNYAZh7VzLUbgxLLrhw Connect with Beau WigingtonInstagram: @beaudiditwelding https://www.instagram.com/beaudiditwelding LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/beauwigington E-Mail : beauw@weld.com | — | ||||||
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