Episodes

  • 341. Heavy Metal Fab w/ Dave Rubin

    341. Heavy Metal Fab w/ Dave Rubin
    Sep 30 2024

    Summary

    In this episode of the Arc Junkies podcast, Jason and Dave Rubin discuss the journey of heavy fabrication, the challenges of running a one-man shop, and the importance of balancing business and craftsmanship. They delve into the significance of networking, adapting to new technologies, and the role of social media in the fabrication industry. The conversation also touches on the benefits of outsourcing work to improve efficiency and the critical nature of understanding contracts and deadlines. Throughout the discussion, they share insights on the evolving landscape of fabrication and the importance of community support.

    Arc Junkies Podcast:

    Instagram: @Arcjunkiespodcast

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@arcjunkiespodcast9253

    Email: Show@arcjunkies.com

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-becker-45407b72?lipi=urn%3Ali%3Apage%3Ad_flagship3_profile_view_base_contact_details%3BKipEwR3uQXCmCjaEfNzo6w%3D%3D

    Arc Junkies Website: https://arcjunkies.com

    Arc junkies Merch: https://shop.threadmob.com/arcjunkie/shop/home

    Underground Metal Works: https://www.underground-metalworks.com/

    Friends of the Show:

    Outlaw Leather LLC

    Outlawleather.com

    Instagram: @outlawleatherusa

    Use ARCJUNKIES for 15% off all in-stock leather goods

    SendCutSend

    Instagram: @SendCutSend

    Save 15% off

    Online: https://sendcutsend.com/arcjunkies/

    Everlast Welders

    Instagram: @everlastwelders

    YouTube: Everlast Welders

    Online: https://bit.ly/37xJstI

    Use Codeword ARCJUNKIES at checkout to get upgraded to a free Nova Foot Pedal and TIG Torch with the purchase of any machine that comes with a stock foot pedal and TIG Torch.

    ISOTUNES:

    Instagram: @isotunesaudio

    Online: https://shop.isotunes.com/arcjunkies10.

    Use ARCJUNKIES10 at checkout and save $10 on your purchase
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    1 hr and 11 mins
  • 340. Welds Matter w/ Scooter Can't Weld

    340. Welds Matter w/ Scooter Can't Weld
    Sep 23 2024

    In this episode of the Arc Junkies Podcast, Jason and Scooter Cantweld discuss Scooter's journey from a hobbyist welder to a professional in the aerospace industry. They explore the challenges of custom fabrication, the importance of quality in welding, and the balance between family life and career aspirations. Scooter shares his experiences in the welding industry, including the lessons learned from both successes and failures, and emphasizes the need for proper techniques to ensure safety and quality in welding work. In this conversation, Scooter Cantweld shares his journey from working in pressure vessels for oil refineries to finding success in the aerospace industry. He discusses the challenges and realities of working in high-demand fields, the importance of hard work and personal responsibility, and the impact of modern conveniences on society. The conversation also touches on the significance of community support in recovery, the challenges of entrepreneurship, and the importance of setting a positive example for the next generation. Throughout the discussion, Scooter emphasizes the need for resilience, patience, and dedication in both personal and professional life.

    Arc Junkies Podcast:

    Instagram: @Arcjunkiespodcast

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@arcjunkiespodcast9253

    Email: Show@arcjunkies.com

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-becker-45407b72?lipi=urn%3Ali%3Apage%3Ad_flagship3_profile_view_base_contact_details%3BKipEwR3uQXCmCjaEfNzo6w%3D%3D

    Arc Junkies Website: https://arcjunkies.com

    Arc junkies Merch: https://shop.threadmob.com/arcjunkie/shop/home

    Underground Metal Works: https://www.underground-metalworks.com/

    Friends of the Show:

    Outlaw Leather LLC

    Outlawleather.com

    Instagram: @outlawleatherusa

    Use ARCJUNKIES for 15% off all in-stock leather goods

    SendCutSend

    Instagram: @SendCutSend

    Save 15% off

    Online: https://sendcutsend.com/arcjunkies/

    Everlast Welders

    Instagram: @everlastwelders

    YouTube: Everlast Welders

    Online: https://bit.ly/37xJstI

    Use Codeword ARCJUNKIES at checkout to get upgraded to a free Nova Foot Pedal and TIG Torch with the purchase of any machine that comes with a stock foot pedal and TIG Torch.

    ISOTUNES:

    Instagram: @isotunesaudio

    Online: https://shop.isotunes.com/arcjunkies10.

    Use ARCJUNKIES10 at checkout and save $10 on your purchase
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    1 hr and 41 mins
  • 339. From Startup to High-Profile Projects w/ John Derham

    339. From Startup to High-Profile Projects w/ John Derham
    Sep 16 2024
    John Derham, owner of KC Fab, shares his journey of starting a fabrication business and the challenges he faces in scaling and expanding. He emphasizes the importance of authenticity and transparency in his social media presence and how it has helped him connect with his audience. John discusses the growth of his business, the types of projects they undertake, and the need for more space to accommodate their increasing workload. He also talks about the costs and challenges of running a business, including hiring and managing employees, dealing with customer expectations, and the impact of scheduling on project timelines. In this conversation, John Derham and Jason discuss their experiences in the welding and fabrication industry. They talk about the challenges of running a business, dealing with unreliable employees, and the importance of letting go of pet peeves. They also touch on the growth of their companies, the importance of hiring smart and trustworthy employees, and the need for continuous learning and improvement. John shares his journey from starting his own welding business with minimal equipment to expanding and taking on high-profile projects. They also discuss the AISC certification process and the importance of proper documentation and quality control in the fabrication industry. Follow John on Instagram @KConlyFab

    Arc Junkies Podcast:

    Instagram: @Arcjunkiespodcast

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@arcjunkiespodcast9253

    Email: Show@arcjunkies.com

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-becker-45407b72?lipi=urn%3Ali%3Apage%3Ad_flagship3_profile_view_base_contact_details%3BKipEwR3uQXCmCjaEfNzo6w%3D%3D

    Arc Junkies Website: https://arcjunkies.com

    Arc junkies Merch: https://shop.threadmob.com/arcjunkie/shop/home

    Underground Metal Works: https://www.underground-metalworks.com/

    Friends of the Show:

    Outlaw Leather LLC

    Outlawleather.com

    Instagram: @outlawleatherusa

    Use ARCJUNKIES for 15% off all in-stock leather goods

    SendCutSend

    Instagram: @SendCutSend

    Save 15% off

    Online: https://sendcutsend.com/arcjunkies/

    Everlast Welders

    Instagram: @everlastwelders

    YouTube: Everlast Welders

    Online: https://bit.ly/37xJstI

    Use Codeword ARCJUNKIES at checkout to get upgraded to a free Nova Foot Pedal and TIG Torch with the purchase of any machine that comes with a stock foot pedal and TIG Torch.

    ISOTUNES:

    Instagram: @isotunesaudio

    Online: https://shop.isotunes.com/arcjunkies10.

    Use ARCJUNKIES10 at checkout and save $10 on your purchase
    Show more Show less
    59 mins
  • Weld Wednesday w/ AWS Welding Careers in Emerging Technologies

    Weld Wednesday w/ AWS Welding Careers in Emerging Technologies
    Sep 4 2024

    In this months episode of Weld Wednesday w/ AWS Joe Young and I discuss the emerging technologies in the welding field, including automation and additive manufacturing. We highlight the importance of having a strong foundation in welding fundamentals and how automation is a supplement to the labor shortage, not a replacement for skilled welders. We also mention the need for welders to understand the settings and variables that affect the end result of a weld when programming robots. The discussion emphasizes the need for welders to be open-minded and adaptable to new technologies. We also explore the importance of embracing and adapting to new technology in the welding industry. We also emphasize the value of being able to operate automated equipment, program robots, and learn new skills.

    Foe more information about AWS check out their website here

    • Welding apprenticeship website = https://weld.ng/q562l6
    • Jobsinwelding.com job search site = https://weld.ng/7hbuwv
    • Careersinwelding.com = https://weld.ng/4w5t0c
    • FABTECH = https://weld.ng/q2rv6e
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    50 mins
  • 338. Setting the Standard w/ Kevin Johnson

    338. Setting the Standard w/ Kevin Johnson
    Sep 2 2024

    Kevin discusses the importance of implementing standard operating procedures (SOPs) and job software in his fabrication shop to improve efficiency and quality. He shares how he took a step back to reevaluate his company and make necessary changes after a conversation with Josh from the Tradesman Experience. Kevin emphasizes the need for clear expectations, written job descriptions, and accountability in order to scale the business and provide a better product to customers. He also highlights the importance of saying no to clients that are not a good fit and focusing on the niche that his shop excels in. The conversation covers topics such as the challenges of hiring specialized workers, the importance of soft skills in the fabrication industry, the benefits of outsourcing certain tasks, the use of technology in fabrication, and the upcoming Fabricator Olympics event.

    Arc Junkies Podcast:

    Instagram: @Arcjunkiespodcast

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@arcjunkiespodcast9253

    Email: Show@arcjunkies.com

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-becker-45407b72?lipi=urn%3Ali%3Apage%3Ad_flagship3_profile_view_base_contact_details%3BKipEwR3uQXCmCjaEfNzo6w%3D%3D

    Arc Junkies Website: https://arcjunkies.com

    Arc junkies Merch: https://shop.threadmob.com/arcjunkie/shop/home

    Underground Metal Works: https://www.underground-metalworks.com/

    Friends of the Show:

    Outlaw Leather LLC

    Outlawleather.com

    Instagram: @outlawleatherusa

    Use ARCJUNKIES for 15% off all in-stock leather goods

    SendCutSend

    Instagram: @SendCutSend

    Save 15% off

    Online: https://sendcutsend.com/arcjunkies/

    Everlast Welders

    Instagram: @everlastwelders

    YouTube: Everlast Welders

    Online: https://bit.ly/37xJstI

    Use Codeword ARCJUNKIES at checkout to get upgraded to a free Nova Foot Pedal and TIG Torch with the purchase of any machine that comes with a stock foot pedal and TIG Torch.

    ISOTUNES:

    Instagram: @isotunesaudio

    Online: https://shop.isotunes.com/arcjunkies10.

    Use ARCJUNKIES10 at checkout and save $10 on your purchase
    Show more Show less
    1 hr and 27 mins
  • 337. Titans of our Industry w/ Bill Newell

    337. Titans of our Industry w/ Bill Newell
    Aug 26 2024
    In this episode of the Arc Junkies Podcast, Jason Becker hosts a deep and insightful conversation with Bill Newell, a seasoned welder and industry expert with over 50 years of experience. Known as one of the welding industry's "Jedi Masters", Bill shares his incredible journey through the welding world, from the early days of working in bridge construction to becoming a mentor and a sought-after consultant. Jason and Bill discuss the evolution of welding techniques, the importance of mentorship, and the challenges of modernizing the industry while respecting its rich history. Bill Newell’s career spans more than five decades, where he has seen the welding industry evolve from traditional techniques to embracing new technologies like plasma welding and additive manufacturing. Bill talks about his early experiences in the welding industry, starting from a family background in construction to becoming a key figure in nuclear power plant construction. He emphasizes the importance of mentorship, having learned from some of the best in the industry, and now passes that wisdom on to the next generation of welders. Bill also discusses his role in code development and the critical nature of understanding and applying welding standards in various industrial contexts. Key Takeaways: Mentorship and Learning: The importance of passing knowledge from one generation to the next. Bill highlights how crucial mentors were in his career and the value of learning from both successes and failures. Evolving with Technology: Bill discusses the challenges and benefits of adopting new welding technologies, emphasizing that while automation and modern techniques are essential, proper training and supervision are key to successful implementation. Respect for the Craft: Bill shares his philosophy of respecting every level of the workforce, from the welder on the shop floor to the engineers in the office. He stresses the importance of understanding the human element in welding and construction. Practical Wisdom: Insights into the practical challenges of welding, including issues like lack of fusion, the dangers of walking the cup, and the necessity of understanding the materials and processes you’re working with. Industry Evolution: Bill reflects on how the welding industry has changed over the years, particularly in terms of safety standards, materials, and the integration of new technologies like laser welding and additive manufacturing. Guest Links: To connect with Bill Newell, you can follow him on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/william-f-newell-jr-27a8741a/. Arc Junkies Podcast: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/arcjunkiespodcast YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@arcjunkiespodcast9253 Email: Show@arcjunkies.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-becker-45407b72 Arc Junkies Website: https://arcjunkies.com Arc junkies Merch: https://shop.threadmob.com/arcjunkie/shop/home Underground Metal Works: https://www.underground-metalworks.com/ Friends of the Show: SendCutSend Instagram: @SendCutSend Online: https://sendcutsend.com/arcjunkies/ Outlaw Leather LLC Outlawleather.com Instagram: @outlawleatherusa Use ARCJUNKIES for 15% off all in-stock leather goods Everlast Welders Instagram: @everlastwelders YouTube: Everlast Welders Online: https://www.everlastgenerators.com/?rfsn=4461397.b3fd38 Use Codeword ARCJUNKIES at checkout to get upgraded to a free Nova Foot Pedal and TIG Torch with the purchase of any machine that comes with a stock foot pedal and TIG Torch.
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    1 hr and 26 mins
  • 336. Changing the Culture in our Industry w/ Juvi Calvo

    336. Changing the Culture in our Industry w/ Juvi Calvo
    Aug 19 2024

    This weeks guest is Juvi Calvo, President of TipTig and Republic Testing Labs in Houston, Texas. In this episode we dive into the changes we’d love to see in the welding industry to enhance the trade as a whole. We all know about the labor shortages, the skills gap, and the push for automation to support skilled workers, with employers struggling to find qualified help. During our conversation, Juvi and I discuss a few ideas on how to address these issues. We hope that some of you will consider implementing these changes in your own shops to boost performance, improve retention, and reduce turnover. If you're an employee or someone new to the industry, you might want to look for these practices at your next workplace.

    Arc Junkies Podcast:

    Instagram: @Arcjunkiespodcast

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@arcjunkiespodcast9253

    Email: Show@arcjunkies.com

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-becker-45407b72?lipi=urn%3Ali%3Apage%3Ad_flagship3_profile_view_base_contact_details%3BKipEwR3uQXCmCjaEfNzo6w%3D%3D

    Arc Junkies Website: https://arcjunkies.com

    Arc junkies Merch: https://shop.threadmob.com/arcjunkie/shop/home

    Underground Metal Works: https://www.underground-metalworks.com/

    Friends of the Show:

    Outlaw Leather LLC

    Outlawleather.com

    Instagram: @outlawleatherusa

    Use ARCJUNKIES for 15% off all in-stock leather goods

    SendCutSend

    Instagram: @SendCutSend

    Save 15% off

    Online: https://sendcutsend.com/arcjunkies/

    Everlast Welders

    Instagram: @everlastwelders

    YouTube: Everlast Welders

    Online: https://bit.ly/37xJstI

    Use Codeword ARCJUNKIES at checkout to get upgraded to a free Nova Foot Pedal and TIG Torch with the purchase of any machine that comes with a stock foot pedal and TIG Torch.

    ISOTUNES:

    Instagram: @isotunesaudio

    Online: https://shop.isotunes.com/arcjunkies10.

    Use ARCJUNKIES10 at checkout and save $10 on your purchase
    Show more Show less
    2 hrs and 1 min
  • 335. Scaling Your Welding Business w/ Eric Pleil

    335. Scaling Your Welding Business w/ Eric Pleil
    Aug 12 2024
    In this episode of the Arc Junkies Podcast, Jason Becker hosts a conversation with Eric Pleil, a welding business owner and coach who transitioned from running a successful fabrication business to helping others succeed in the welding industry. Eric shares his journey from starting out with custom motorcycle work to growing his own welding business and eventually moving into manufacturing. He delves into the challenges of balancing work with business development, the importance of building relationships, and the critical steps involved in transitioning from a small side hustle to a full-time operation. Eric’s insights include his approach to estimating jobs, managing time as a solo business owner, and the value of investing in systems and processes to ensure business growth. He also discusses the importance of learning from failures, the power of building a strong professional network, and the value of outsourcing tasks that are beyond your immediate capabilities. This episode is packed with actionable advice for welders and small business owners looking to grow and succeed in a competitive market. Key Takeaways: Starting Small and Growing Big: Eric’s journey from mobile welding and custom motorcycle work to running a full-scale fabrication and manufacturing business. The importance of starting with a niche and gradually expanding. Managing Time and Resources: Tips on balancing the demands of a small business, including managing client relationships, meeting deadlines, and keeping up with administrative tasks like accounting and invoicing. The Power of Networking: Building strong relationships with suppliers, vendors, and other local businesses can open doors to new opportunities and help sustain a business in the long term. Outsourcing and Specialization: The importance of outsourcing tasks when necessary and focusing on areas where your business can excel and grow. Building partnerships with other businesses to extend your capabilities. Learning from Failures: The value of embracing failure as part of the entrepreneurial journey. Fail faster and use the lessons learned to improve and outpace the competition. Consultation and Coaching: Eric’s transition into coaching and consulting, helping others avoid the pitfalls he experienced and guiding them toward success in the welding industry. To learn more about Phil Garland and connect with him, visit his Instagram profile: https://www.instagram.com/theweldingphilosopher/ Arc Junkies Podcast: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/arcjunkiespodcast YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@arcjunkiespodcast9253 Email: Show@arcjunkies.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-becker-45407b72 Arc Junkies Website: https://arcjunkies.com Arc junkies Merch: https://shop.threadmob.com/arcjunkie/shop/home Underground Metal Works: https://www.underground-metalworks.com/ Friends of the Show: SendCutSend Instagram: @SendCutSend Online: https://sendcutsend.com/arcjunkies/ Outlaw Leather LLC Outlawleather.com Instagram: @outlawleatherusa Use ARCJUNKIES for 15% off all in-stock leather goods Everlast Welders Instagram: @everlastwelders YouTube: Everlast Welders Online: https://www.everlastgenerators.com/?rfsn=4461397.b3fd38 Use Codeword ARCJUNKIES at checkout to get upgraded to a free Nova Foot Pedal and TIG Torch with the purchase of any machine that comes with a stock foot pedal and TIG Torch.
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    1 hr and 29 mins