Arc Junkies

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: [email protected]

• 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.

In this conversation, Jason and Daryl discuss various certifications available through AWS for welders. They highlight the importance of certifications for career advancement and explore the benefits of specific certifications such as the Certified Welding Supervisor (CWS) and Certified Welding Educator (CWE). They also touch on the significance of lean manufacturing and the use of cobots in the welding industry. The conversation emphasizes the need for continuous learning and staying updated with codes and standards. In this part of the conversation, Daryl and Jason discuss the importance of using standard terms and definitions in welding inspections. They emphasize the need for welders and inspectors to speak the same language and understand the questions being asked in exams. They also highlight the role of inspectors as interpreters between engineers and welders. The conversation then shifts to the difficulty of the CWI exam and the importance of thorough preparation. They discuss the benefits of taking endorsements and how they can enhance a CWI's knowledge and expertise. They also mention upcoming endorsements, such as the owner's inspector endorsement. In this conversation, Daryl Peterson and Jason discuss various certifications and endorsements available in the welding industry. They touch on topics such as rebar codes, the importance of being knowledgeable in different codes, the benefits of joining local AWS sections, and the need for continuous learning and improvement. They also highlight the significance of certifications in demonstrating expertise and the importance of verifying information from code books rather than relying on memory or prior knowledge.

For more information on how you can get more involved with AWS check out there website Here

For more information on the Various AWS Certifications and Endorsements click Here

John Weslow shares his journey of addiction and recovery, highlighting the challenges he faced and the support he received. He discusses his experiences with substance abuse, including using drugs and staying awake for days on end. He talks about his time in rehab and the importance of finding a new focus, such as bodybuilding, to replace his addictive behaviors. John emphasizes the significance of friendship and support in his recovery journey and the impact it has had on his life. He also discusses his current routine, including his diet and workout regimen, as he continues to compete in bodybuilding competitions. In this part of the conversation, John Weslow discusses his desire to start a podcast to help others and share his message. He also talks about the challenges of being a welder and the importance of having good mentors and supportive colleagues. The conversation touches on addiction and the struggles of staying clean, as well as the negative comments and criticism that can come from social media. John also mentions his passion for bodybuilding and the importance of finding balance in life. In this conversation, John Weslow discusses his experience with welding and bodybuilding, as well as his journey to sobriety. He emphasizes the importance of finding a mentor and being willing to help oneself. John also talks about the challenges of raising children in the digital age and offers his support to anyone looking to get clean and improve their fitness. He shares his contact information for those who want to reach out to him.

Arc Junkies Podcast:

Instagram: @Arcjunkiespodcast

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

Email: [email protected]

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

In this episode of the Arc Junkies Podcast, Jason Becker hosts a conversation with Phil Garland, a welding applications technician at Fronius and a self-taught welder. Phil shares his remarkable journey from knowing nothing about welding to becoming an expert in the field, all while balancing his passion for welding with his life on a family farm.

Phil's story is filled with interesting moments, including his early struggles with welding, his unique learning experiences, and his transition to working with advanced welding technologies at Fronius. From his beginnings on a farm, where he first encountered welding through his father, to his extensive use of YouTube as a learning tool, Phil's journey is an inspiring example of determination and continuous learning.

The episode delves into various welding techniques and technologies, such as stainless TIG welding, MIG welding, and the innovative processes used by Fronius. Phil discusses the challenges and rewards of teaching welding to others, his experiences with different welding equipment, and his plans for future projects, including teaching and custom welding work.

• Learning Welding: Phil's journey from zero knowledge to expertise, emphasizes the importance of hands-on experience, mentorship, and utilizing online resources like YouTube.
• Advanced Welding Technologies: Insights into the cutting-edge welding technologies and processes used at Fronius, including the use of AC polarity in MIG welding and the CMT (Cold Metal Transfer) process.
• Teaching and Mentorship: The importance of sharing knowledge and mentoring the next generation of welders, highlighting Phil's experiences teaching new welders at his previous job and his plans to offer lessons in the future.
• Welding Techniques: Discussions on various welding techniques, including stainless TIG welding, MIG welding, and the use of different torches and consumables for optimal results.
• Personal Growth and Passion: Phil's passion for welding and continuous learning, along with his personal experiences, such as his interest in blacksmithing and his connection to horses and farm life.

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: [email protected]

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.

Aaron Pepper is a Tig Welder at Boeing who welds Titanium parts that are flight critical for F15's and F18's. In this episode we discuss some of the nuances about welding titanium and how critical proper preparation and cleaning is when it comes to this exotic alloy. We also chat about the rigorous testing required to do the work that he does.

Arc Junkies Podcast:

Instagram: @Arcjunkiespodcast

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

Email: [email protected]

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

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

Brent E. Boling shares his journey into welding and inspection, emphasizing the importance of mentors and continuous learning in the industry. The conversation covers topics such as the tight-knit welding community, the need for proper training and understanding of codes and procedures, the challenges of misinformation, and the role of inspection in ensuring quality and safety. The most common discontinuities encountered in inspections are undersized welds, undercut, and overlap. The importance of proper weld sizing and the use of fillet weld gauges are highlighted. In this conversation, Brent E. Boling and Jason discuss various topics related to welding and inspection. They cover the importance of proper weld discontinuities, the use of mock-ups and soapstone marking for welders, the significance of welder certifications, the role of inspectors in ensuring compliance with AWS and contract documents, the challenges faced by inspectors in enforcing standards, the need for photographs on welder certifications, the importance of proper weld procedures, the impact of rod ovens on welding quality, the benefits of getting involved in AWS committees, and the value of student memberships and student chapters.

For more information on how you can get involved with AWS or to become a memeber Click Here

Become an AWS Certified Welding Inspector Here

Today's guest is Jaylon Marshall, a young welding entrepreneur out of Little Rock Arkansas. Jaylon has a massive work ethic and is super savvy when it comes to business strategies. Right now he's in the process of taking his current business to the next level. In this episode we talk about how and why he chose welding as a career path and how he started his business. Jaylon shares some of the ways he got setup and how he initially marketed his new business to his community. He has an extremely interesting story!

Follow Jaylon on Instagram Here

Arc Junkies Podcast:

Instagram: @Arcjunkiespodcast

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

Email: [email protected]

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

CK Worldwide

https://www.ckworldwide.com/

Fronius USA

https://www.fronius.com/en-us/usa

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.

SendCutSend

Instagram: @SendCutSend

Online: https://sendcutsend.com/

ISOTUNES:

Instagram: @isotunesaudio

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

Use ARCJUNKIES10 at checkout and save $10 on your purchase

Joining me in this week's episode is Mike Barnett a traveling welder doing structural steel, manufacturing and Millwright work all across the US. In this episode, Mike and I discuss his journey from starting his own custom shop, to becoming a traveling welder, we also discuss the importance of adaptability and continuous learning in the welding profession.

Follow Mike on Instagram Here

Follow Mike on TikTok @bigmike326

Sign up for Ars and Ales Here

Arc Junkies Podcast:

Instagram: @Arcjunkiespodcast

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

Email: [email protected]

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

CK Worldwide

https://www.ckworldwide.com/

Fronius USA

https://www.fronius.com/en-us/usa

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.

SendCutSend

Instagram: @SendCutSend

Online: https://sendcutsend.com/

ISOTUNES:

Instagram: @isotunesaudio

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

Use ARCJUNKIES10 at checkout and save $10 on your purchase

Joining me today is Jim Belosic, CEO and Founder of Send Cut Send. Jim has an incredible story of how he built a unique company to perform a very necessary service for home hobbyists, Makers, custom fabricators and small to large business owners. During the day Jim would work designing various types of websites and software programs and would work on building crazy custom cars in his off hours. He built many of the custom fabricated parts himself and one day incorporated a CNC plasma cutter to increase speed and accuracy of the parts he needed. Jim realized he could'nt be the only one in his area that needed custom parts made so he started to fill machine down time with custom orders and thus send cut send was born.

Arc Junkies Podcast:

Instagram: @Arcjunkiespodcast

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

Email: [email protected]

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

CK Worldwide

https://www.ckworldwide.com/

Fronius USA

https://www.fronius.com/en-us/usa

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.

SendCutSend

Instagram: @SendCutSend

Online: https://sendcutsend.com/

ISOTUNES:

Instagram: @isotunesaudio

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

Use ARCJUNKIES10 at checkout and save $10 on your purchase

oining me this week is Patrick Tozzi. Patrick is a Navy SEAL, a skilled metal fabricator, an imaginative artist, and a custom bike builder. In this episode, we're diving into Patrick's journey—from his intense experiences in the Navy SEAL Teams to managing a custom bike shop while on active duty. We also discuss the importance of mental and physical fitness and explore the amazing charity work he does for several veteran non-profits.

Arc Junkies Podcast:

Instagram: @Arcjunkiespodcast

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

Email: [email protected]

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

CK Worldwide

https://www.ckworldwide.com/

Fronius USA

https://www.fronius.com/en-us/usa

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.

SendCutSend

Instagram: @SendCutSend

Online: https://sendcutsend.com/

ISOTUNES:

Instagram: @isotunesaudio

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

Use ARCJUNKIES10 at checkout and save $10 on your purchase