Arc Junkies

Arc Junkies is a Welding Podcast that is on a mission to help, educate and inspire the next generation of welders. Each week I talk to a new guest about their journey as a welder. Throughout the episodes, we cover different techniques, processes, variables, technical information and life lessons.

State of the Arc #1: Robotic Welding Certs, Welder Shortage Reality, and D1.1 2025 Updates 05/01/2025

367. The Pursuit of "Why" w/ Tim Lucas 04/28/2025

366. TIG Tight and Shop Strong w/ Gavin Young of Baer Welding 04/21/2025

365. Sign of the Times w/ Jake LeGrand 04/14/2025

Weld Wednesdays w/ AWS State of the Industry 2025 w/ Dick Holdren 04/02/2025

364. Go-NoGo w/ Kyle Taylor 03/31/2025

363. Metal Health w/ Steve Kost 03/24/2025

363. Metal Health w/ Steve Kost In this captivating episode of the Arc Junkies Podcast, host Jason Becker chats with Steve Kost, a veteran and accomplished ironworker, as they explore his transition from military service to a rewarding career in ironworking. Steve shares insights from his time as a hull technician in the Navy and his involvement with the SeaBees, highlighting the strong sense of camaraderie and brotherhood that resonates within the ironworking community. The discussion also touches on Steve's reintegration into civilian life, underscoring the critical role of mentorship and community support. They discuss the intricacies and rewards of ironworking, emphasizing the importance of efficiency and thorough planning. Parallel to his career, Steve opens up about his journey as an artist, noting how creative outlets have supported his mental health and facilitated community connection and recognition. The episode sheds light on the importance of embracing opportunities and recognizing the value of one’s work, offering profound insights for veterans navigating post-military careers and for anyone facing new life and work challenges. Follow Steve Check out his website Arc Junkies Podcast: Instagram: @Arcjunkiespodcast YouTube: Email: LinkedIn: Arc Junkies Website: https://arcjunkies.com Arc junkies Merch: Underground Metal Works: Friends of the Show: American Welding Society Conferences Weld Summit Use BECKER at Checkout and get a free gift at the event. Outlaw Leather LLC Instagram: @outlawleatherusa Use ARCJUNKIES for 15% off all in-stock leather goods International Welding Bureau Internationalweldingbureau.com Everlast Welders Instagram: @everlastwelders YouTube: Everlast Welders Online: 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. Walter Surface Technologies ISOTUNES: Instagram: @isotunesaudio Online: . Use ARCJUNKIES10 at checkout and save $10 on your purchase /episode/index/show/arcjunkies/id/35829815

362. Stairway to Success with Jonathan Webster of JD Stairs 03/10/2025

Weld Wednesdays w/ AWS Virtual Reality and E-Learning Tools 03/05/2025

361. The Science of Grinding w. Ryan Boyd 03/03/2025

360. Pipeline Perspectives: Austin and Rodney Ross on the Welding Life 02/24/2025

359. The Future of Fabrication w/ Jason Marburger 02/17/2025

358. Titans of our Industry II w/ Dick Holdren 02/10/2025

Weld Wednesdays w/ AWS Its Scholarship Season! 02/05/2025

357. Chiasson Dreams w/ Jason and Miranda Chiasson 02/03/2025

357. Chiasson Dreams w/ Jason and Miranda Chiasson In this episode of the Arc Junkies podcast, guests Jason and Miranda Chiasson share their experiences and insights from the welding industry. They explore the evolution of their careers—from mastering foundational skills like reading a tape measure to transitioning from hands-on technician work to full-scale business ownership. The discussion delves into how social media and viral marketing have propelled their rocket stove business, highlighting the challenges and innovations in manufacturing, packaging, and delegation as they scale up operations. Jason and Miranda also emphasize the importance of creating relatable content that drives sales, sharing their journey from solo work to building a team and the benefits of business coaching in managing burnout and overcoming hurdles. They discuss the balance between custom projects and scalable products, the future of welding education, and their commitment to customer service and quality craftsmanship. To wrap up, the duo announces an upcoming podcast dedicated to sharing more industry insights and experiences, inviting listeners to learn from their entrepreneurial journey. Arc Junkies Podcast: Instagram: @Arcjunkiespodcast YouTube: Email: LinkedIn: Arc Junkies Website: https://arcjunkies.com Arc junkies Merch: Underground Metal Works: Friends of the Show: American Welding Society Conferences IEC Conference Use BECKER at Checkout and get a free gift at the event. Outlaw Leather LLC Instagram: @outlawleatherusa Use ARCJUNKIES for 15% off all in-stock leather goods Knipex https://www.knipex-tools.com/ International Welding Bureau Internationalweldingbureau.com Everlast Welders Instagram: @everlastwelders YouTube: Everlast Welders Online: 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. Walter Surface Technologies ISOTUNES: Instagram: @isotunesaudio Online: . Use ARCJUNKIES10 at checkout and save $10 on your purchase /episode/index/show/arcjunkies/id/35120590

356. Who the Hell is Todd Clouser? 01/20/2025

356. Who the Hell is Todd Clouser? Summary In this engaging conversation, Todd Clouser shares his unique journey in the welding industry, primarily as the unsung hero behind the camera at weld.com. He discusses the challenges and rewards of being a key player in content creation without seeking the spotlight. The conversation delves into the evolution of weld.com, the impact of their content on the welding community, and memorable projects that shaped their brand. Todd reflects on the learning experiences gained through his role and the collaborative efforts that have contributed to the success of weld.com. In this engaging conversation, Jason and Todd recount their adventurous road trip filled with unexpected challenges, humorous anecdotes, and meaningful connections with influencers in the welding and cooking community. They share their experiences with sponsorship attempts, the impact of energy drinks, and the joy of meeting fellow creators. The discussion also touches on the evolution of their content creation journey and the importance of in-person interactions in building relationships. Arc Junkies Podcast: Instagram: @Arcjunkiespodcast YouTube: Email: LinkedIn: Arc Junkies Website: https://arcjunkies.com Arc junkies Merch: Underground Metal Works: Friends of the Show: American Welding Society Conferences IEC Conference Use BECKER at Checkout and get a free gift at the event. Outlaw Leather LLC Instagram: @outlawleatherusa Use ARCJUNKIES for 15% off all in-stock leather goods SendCutSend Instagram: @SendCutSend Save 15% off Online: International Welding Bureau Internationalweldingbureau.com Everlast Welders Instagram: @everlastwelders YouTube: Everlast Welders Online: 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: . Use ARCJUNKIES10 at checkout and save $10 on your purchase /episode/index/show/arcjunkies/id/34918235

355. Year of the Yeti w/ Dillon Hales 01/13/2025

355. Year of the Yeti w/ Dillon Hales In this episode, I sit down with Dillon to talk about his incredible journey in the welding industry. We start with his early days working on a farm, move through his experience as a pipeline welder, and dive into his transition to starting his own fabrication business. Along the way, we discuss the critical role of mentorship, the various career paths welding offers, and the essential tools and strategies for success in a small shop environment. Dillon and I share insights on what it takes to build a welding business from the ground up. We highlight the importance of starting small, engaging with the community through teaching welding classes, and supporting the next generation of welders. Networking and collaboration come up as key components to thriving in this industry, as well as the value of certifications and setting up accredited testing facilities. We even touch on tips for navigating the CWI exam. We also get into the nitty-gritty of running a welding business, from balancing office work and hands-on fabrication to understanding client needs and tackling the challenges of scaling. Dillon opens up about his transition from working solo to managing a team, emphasizing the importance of organization, efficient workflows, and task management tools. Finally, Dillon gives us a glimpse into his future plans for Yeti Welding, sharing his goals for 2025, which he’s calling "The Year of the Yeti." We explore new technologies, task management techniques, and the significance of staying connected with the welding community. This is a conversation packed with inspiration and practical advice for welders and entrepreneurs alike. Follow Yeti Welding on Instagram Arc Junkies Podcast: Instagram: @Arcjunkiespodcast YouTube: Email: LinkedIn: Arc Junkies Website: https://arcjunkies.com Arc junkies Merch: Underground Metal Works: Friends of the Show: American Welding Society Conferences IEC Conference Use BECKER at Checkout and get a free gift at the event. Outlaw Leather LLC Instagram: @outlawleatherusa Use ARCJUNKIES for 15% off all in-stock leather goods SendCutSend Instagram: @SendCutSend Save 15% off Online: International Welding Bureau Internationalweldingbureau.com Everlast Welders Instagram: @everlastwelders YouTube: Everlast Welders Online: 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: . Use ARCJUNKIES10 at checkout and save $10 on your purchase /episode/index/show/arcjunkies/id/34829110

354. Navigating the Welding Industry: From Entry-Level to Leadership 01/06/2025

354. Navigating the Welding Industry: From Entry-Level to Leadership In this episode, I’m joined by some awesome guests as we talk about our time at Fabtech—sharing stories, networking wins, and the overall vibe of the event. We dig into how we all got started in welding, from entry-level jobs to where we are now, and the lessons we’ve learned along the way about mentorship, lifelong learning, and building a career. We also dive into what it takes to succeed in the trades—things like good planning, staying motivated, and surrounding yourself with the right people. We touch on mental health, the importance of using what you learn, and how networking can open big doors. Plus, we swap ideas about the future of welding, education, and why mentorship matters for the next generation. We wrap up by chatting about the hustle of running a welding business, planning events like the Fabricator Olympics, and what’s coming up in 2025. If you love welding, want to grow your skills, or just need some motivation, this episode’s for you! Follow Max on Instagram Follow Kevin on Instagram Follow Frankie on Instagram Arc Junkies Podcast: Instagram: @Arcjunkiespodcast YouTube: Email: LinkedIn: Arc Junkies Website: https://arcjunkies.com Arc junkies Merch: Underground Metal Works: Friends of the Show: American Welding Society Conferences IEC Conference Use BECKER at Checkout and get a free gift at the event. Outlaw Leather LLC Instagram: @outlawleatherusa Use ARCJUNKIES for 15% off all in-stock leather goods SendCutSend Instagram: @SendCutSend Save 15% off Online: International Welding Bureau Internationalweldingbureau.com Everlast Welders Instagram: @everlastwelders YouTube: Everlast Welders Online: 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: . Use ARCJUNKIES10 at checkout and save $10 on your purchase /episode/index/show/arcjunkies/id/34730930

353. Finding Your Center w/ Weston Spencer 12/23/2024

352. Unveiling the Next Big Thing in Our Industry w/ Scott Witkowski and Juvi Calvo 12/16/2024

351. Growing My Tribe w/ Chris Hale 12/09/2024

Weld Wednesdays w/ AWS The Future of Welding Education with Tim Baber 12/04/2024

350. Brazing in the Modern Age w/ Harry Erskine 12/02/2024

350. Brazing in the Modern Age w/ Harry Erskine Summary In this weeks episode Harry and I dive into the art and science of brazing, particularly in the context of motorcycle frames. Harry shares his journey into brazing, the resurgence of this technique in modern applications, and the technical challenges involved in mastering it. The conversation also touches on the importance of temperature control, the tools used in brazing, and the personal experiences that shape a craftsman's approach. Additionally, Harry reveals his unique choice of music while working, highlighting the blend of creativity and craftsmanship in the welding process. In this conversation, Jason and Harry delve into the intricacies of brazing, discussing the importance of pre-cleaning, the nuances of starting a new business, and the impact of teaching on mastery of the craft. They explore the advantages and disadvantages of brazing compared to welding, including heat treatment and distortion issues. Harry shares insights on powder coating and the significance of building a brand identity in the welding community. Give Harry a Follow on Instagram Arc Junkies Podcast: Instagram: @Arcjunkiespodcast YouTube: Email: LinkedIn: Arc Junkies Website: https://arcjunkies.com Arc junkies Merch: Underground Metal Works: Friends of the Show: Pro Tools Instagram @protoolsusa https://pro-tools.com/ Outlaw Leather LLC Instagram: @outlawleatherusa Use ARCJUNKIES for 15% off all in-stock leather goods SendCutSend Instagram: @SendCutSend Save 15% off Online: Everlast Welders Instagram: @everlastwelders YouTube: Everlast Welders Online: 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: . Use ARCJUNKIES10 at checkout and save $10 on your purchase /episode/index/show/arcjunkies/id/34222910

349. Building Dreams, One Bend at a Time w/ Tyler Mullen 11/25/2024

348. Welding the Divide: Empowering Students Through Vocational Training w/ Dorman Vic 11/18/2024

348. Welding the Divide: Empowering Students Through Vocational Training w/ Dorman Vic In this episode, I sit down with Dorman Vick to dive into the transformative power of vocational education, especially in the welding industry. We start by discussing the importance of hands-on learning and how it keeps students engaged and passionate about the trade. Dorman shares his experiences in building a successful welding program, highlighting the need for modern equipment and innovative teaching methods to meet the demands of today’s workforce. One of the key themes we explore is the critical role of mentorship. Dorman and I talk about how personal development and mentorship can shape the next generation of skilled tradespeople, preparing them not just for jobs but for life. We also delve into the cultural shift needed to truly value vocational education and the challenges vocational programs face, from class sizes to funding and on-site training opportunities. Dorman’s unique perspective as someone who transitioned from a military background to education adds depth to our conversation. He emphasizes the importance of teaching life skills, fostering passion in students, and creating comfortable learning environments where they can thrive. We also touch on the growing skills gap in the industry and the necessity of equipping students with both technical and soft skills to succeed. Throughout our discussion, we share inspiring success stories, including women breaking barriers in welding, and talk about the role of technology and social media in making vocational education more accessible and relevant. It’s an eye-opening conversation that underscores why skilled trades are vital for the future of our workforce and the energy sector. If you’re passionate about the trades or just curious about the impact of vocational education, this episode is a must-listen! Check out Dorman on Instagram Welding Student Support Foundation Arc Junkies Podcast: Instagram: @Arcjunkiespodcast YouTube: Email: LinkedIn: Arc Junkies Website: https://arcjunkies.com Arc junkies Merch: Underground Metal Works: Friends of the Show: Outlaw Leather LLC Instagram: @outlawleatherusa Use ARCJUNKIES for 15% off all in-stock leather goods SendCutSend Instagram: @SendCutSend Save 15% off Online: Everlast Welders Instagram: @everlastwelders YouTube: Everlast Welders Online: 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: . Use ARCJUNKIES10 at checkout and save $10 on your purchase /episode/index/show/arcjunkies/id/33965472

347. Blackened is Just the Beginning w/ Rob Deitrich 11/11/2024

347. Blackened is Just the Beginning w/ Rob Deitrich Summary In this episode of the Arc Junkies podcast, Jason interviews Whiskey Rob, the master distiller of Blackened Whiskey. They discuss Rob's journey from serving in the Army to becoming a master distiller, his experiences in the music industry, and the intricacies of whiskey production. Rob shares insights on the differences between whiskey and bourbon, the aging process, and the importance of water quality in distilling. He also talks about his collaboration with Metallica and the creative processes behind developing new whiskey blends and cigars. In this engaging conversation, Jason and Whiskey Rob delve into the fascinating world of whiskey production, exploring innovative techniques such as sonic enhancement and the art of pairing whiskey with cigars. They share personal anecdotes, discuss the science behind flavor profiles, and reflect on the evolution of whiskey-making methods. The dialogue highlights the importance of authenticity and creativity in crafting unique spirits, while also addressing skepticism surrounding new technologies in the industry. In this engaging conversation, Jason and Whiskey Rob explore the intersection of music, whiskey, and personal experiences. They share stories about road trips, Metallica concerts, and the unique connection between whiskey and the iconic band. The discussion delves into the impact of Metallica's philanthropy, innovative concert experiences, and the evolution of their music over the years. Rob shares his journey of creating a unique album experience with Metallica's music, highlighting the personal connections and memories tied to their songs. The conversation wraps up with reflections on favorite Metallica tracks and the lasting legacy of the band. Follow Rob on Instagram Check out Blackened American Whiskey Donate or Apply for Scholorships at the All Within My Hands Foundation Blackened Cigars Arc Junkies Podcast: Instagram: @Arcjunkiespodcast YouTube: Email: LinkedIn: Arc Junkies Website: https://arcjunkies.com Arc junkies Merch: Underground Metal Works: Friends of the Show: Outlaw Leather LLC Instagram: @outlawleatherusa Use ARCJUNKIES for 15% off all in-stock leather goods SendCutSend Instagram: @SendCutSend Save 15% off Online: Everlast Welders Instagram: @everlastwelders YouTube: Everlast Welders Online: 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: . Use ARCJUNKIES10 at checkout and save $10 on your purchase /episode/index/show/arcjunkies/id/33871792

Weld Wednesday w/ AWS Unlocking Success in Welding: Insights on Certifications and Mentorship from Andy Provost 11/06/2024

346. Fixturing Heavy Fab w/ Ben Steel 11/04/2024

346. Fixturing Heavy Fab w/ Ben Steel In this episode of the Arch Junkies podcast, host Jason interviews Ben, a fabrication expert from Belgium, who shares insights into innovative techniques in stage construction using Sigmund fabrication tables. Ben discusses the importance of preparation, precision, and adapting to new methods in the workshop. He emphasizes the investment in quality equipment and the organization of tools to enhance productivity. The conversation also touches on the welding techniques used in building large structures for major artists and the rewarding experience of seeing their work come to life at concerts. In this engaging conversation, Jason and Ben discuss various aspects of the welding industry, including major trade shows like Fabtech and Schweiss und Schneider, the importance of networking, innovations in welding apparel, and the significance of competitions like WorldSkills. They also delve into leadership challenges in motivating younger welders and the future of fabrication techniques, highlighting the role of companies like Stageco in building impressive stages for events. The discussion emphasizes the community aspect of welding and the shared passion for the craft. Follow Ben on Instagram Check out his YouTube Channel: Connect with Ben on LinkedIn: Arc Junkies Podcast: Instagram: @Arcjunkiespodcast YouTube: Email: LinkedIn: Arc Junkies Website: https://arcjunkies.com Arc junkies Merch: Underground Metal Works: Friends of the Show: Outlaw Leather LLC Instagram: @outlawleatherusa Use ARCJUNKIES for 15% off all in-stock leather goods SendCutSend Instagram: @SendCutSend Save 15% off Online: Everlast Welders Instagram: @everlastwelders YouTube: Everlast Welders Online: 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: . Use ARCJUNKIES10 at checkout and save $10 on your purchase /episode/index/show/arcjunkies/id/33767772

345. From the Field to the Classroom: Bridging Industry and Education w/ Guy Seguin 10/28/2024

Weld Wednesday w/ AWS Streamline Your Workflow: Lean Manufacturing Secrets for Job Shops w/ Dr. Shahrukh Irani 10/23/2024

Arc Junkies

TOPICS