Welding Business Owner Podcast: Recent Episodes
Kevin Johnson
22-year-old Knox Carmichael left high school, got his GED, learned to weld, bought a $10K camper on Facebook Marketplace, and hit the road. He’s welded garbage trucks in Denver, aluminum Navy ships in Wisconsin, and now lives in his camper in Florida doing aerospace steel welding (UT/X-ray). He travels with his fiancée, plans to start Weld Fab Auto, and shares hard-won lessons on recruiters, test jitters, and why gatekeeping hurts the trade.
“Confidence is 90 % of welding.” – Knox
In this engaging episode, Nathan Leiter and Kevin Johnson dive into the challenges and triumphs of the welding community. Nathan shares his journey into the business side of welding, while Kevin discusses the exciting Fabricator Olympics and his goal to unite welders from all 50 states. Tune in for insights on starting your own venture and the importance of community support in the welding industry.
October 11th 2025
www.FabricatorOlympics.com
In this episode, we dive into the dynamic world of welding with Mike Krenzler, owner of KFW Welding. Discover the unique challenges faced by welders in the agricultural sector, from navigating the expectations of second-generation farmers to managing the financial demands of running a small business. Mike shares his journey from apprentice to business owner, offering insights into the importance of community, the value of investing in technology like CNC plasma tables, and the delicate balance between work and family life. Tune in for a candid discussion on the evolving landscape of welding and the strategies that keep this essential industry thriving.
October 11th 2025
www.FabricatorOlympics.com
Kevin and Weston discuss the journey of Weston as a welder and entrepreneur, focusing on his innovative tool, the Picket Master Pro. They explore the challenges of running a side business while maintaining a full-time job, the importance of community and social media in business, and the future of Weston's ventures. The discussion highlights the significance of adaptability, learning from experiences, and the value of side hustles in achieving financial goals.
October 11th 2025
www.FabricatorOlympics.com
In todays episode we revisit Bruce Stevens from Go Wild Fabrication to see how much his business has changed in the last 4 years and what journey he's on now.
October 11th 2025
www.FabricatorOlympics.com
In this conversation, Kevin Johnson interviews Dan Lischner, who shares his journey from being a welder to acquiring an established welding business. They discuss the challenges and intricacies of business acquisition, the importance of maintaining customer relationships, and the lessons learned in the first nine months of ownership. Dan emphasizes the significance of teaching and training new employees, the role of community engagement, and the upcoming Fabricator Olympics, which celebrates skills in the welding industry.
October 11th 2025
www.FabricatorOlympics.com
In this conversation, Cody Highfield shares his journey from being a teacher to running his own fabrication business, Trinity Fab Works. He discusses the challenges of balancing his teaching career with his growing business, the importance of community support, and the lessons learned from early mistakes. Cody emphasizes the role of faith in his business decisions and the value of family time over financial gain. He also shares insights on time management, client relationships, and the evolution of his shop's services and equipment. In this conversation, Cody shares his journey of running a fabrication business while balancing a teaching job and family life. He discusses the importance of connections in acquiring larger jobs, the reliance on word-of-mouth advertising, and the challenges of managing work-life balance. Cody emphasizes the significance of delegation and setting clear expectations when hiring, as well as learning from past mistakes. He also highlights the innovative tools he has created to improve efficiency in his work and reflects on the journey of building a business without financing.
In this conversation, Kevin Johnson interviews Aaron from Wilson Products, discussing his unique journey from appliance repair to becoming a key player in the welding industry. Aaron shares insights into the gas distribution sector, including the complexities of cylinder rental and ownership, the supply chain of gases, and the importance of hydro testing for safety. He also delves into the factors influencing gas prices and how small distributors can compete with larger companies in a highly regulated market. In this conversation, Aaron discusses the competitive landscape of independent distributors in the welding industry, highlighting the challenges they face compared to larger companies. He emphasizes the importance of building strong relationships with customers and dispelling misconceptions about pricing and service. Aaron shares unique customer requests and memorable experiences, showcasing the dedication and passion of Wilson Products in providing quality service and products. The discussion also touches on the advantages of being a family-owned business and the significance of having a demo room for customers to try out equipment.
If you'd like to contact Aaron, his contact info is below:
Aaronschaffer@wilsonproducts.com
https://www.wilsonproducts.com/
October 11th 2025
www.FabricatorOlympics.com
Kevin Johnson interviews Sam Hackman, a welder and business owner, about his journey in the welding industry. Sam shares his early experiences, challenges transitioning to full-time business, and goals for the future. They discuss field vs. shop work, pricing, scheduling, and the importance of quality and customer service. Sam talks about managing employees, maintaining satisfaction, and justifying equipment purchases like his favorite tool—the press brake. He reflects on risks he wishes he’d taken, balancing work and family, delegating responsibilities, and lessons from tough jobs. The conversation highlights the value of clear communication, creating a positive work environment, and learning from business mistakes and podcasts.
October 11th 2025
www.FabricatorOlympics.com
In this conversation, Kevin Johnson and Steven Sainsbury discuss the journey of building a fabrication business, FlyFab, from its early influences to current operations. They explore the challenges of transitioning from part-time to full-time work, the importance of quality control, and the lessons learned in business. Steven shares insights on mentorship, skill development, and hiring strategies, emphasizing the need for a structured approach to growth and quality management. In this conversation, Kevin Johnson and Steven Sainsbury discuss various aspects of running a small business, particularly in the welding industry. They delve into hiring strategies, interview processes, employee retention, benefits, and the importance of work-life balance. The discussion highlights the challenges of finding the right candidates, the significance of creating a positive work environment, and the necessity of providing benefits to retain employees. They also touch on their future business goals and the importance of maintaining a healthy balance between work and family life. In this conversation, Kevin Johnson shares his insights on effective email management, the importance of streamlined communication through JobTrade, and the significance of job costing and accountability in the welding business. He discusses pivotal business decisions, the value of outsourcing, and the lessons learned throughout his journey in managing a welding company. The conversation emphasizes the need for clear communication, understanding costs, and the importance of focusing on what one should do rather than what one can do. In this conversation, Kevin Johnson and Steven Sainsbury discuss the importance of financial management in business, the need for accurate overhead cost calculations, and the significance of hiring the right people. They also explore future equipment investments and the planning of the Fabricator Olympics, emphasizing community engagement and the potential for growth in the fabricating industry.
October 11th 2025
www.FabricatorOlympics.com
In this conversation, Kevin Johnson and Jon discuss Jon's journey as a professional problem solver in the welding and fabrication industry. Jon shares insights about his business, the challenges he faced in hiring employees, and how he has navigated the complexities of pricing and estimating work. They also touch on the importance of work-life balance and Jon's daily routine, emphasizing the need for focus and efficiency in his work. In this conversation, Jon and Kevin discuss the challenges of balancing work and family life, the importance of setting both short-term and long-term goals, and the necessity of standard operating procedures for efficiency. They explore the concept of continuous improvement in business practices and share organizational tips to enhance productivity. The discussion also touches on the emotional aspects of career choices and the desire for personal fulfillment. In this conversation, Kevin Johnson and Jon discuss various aspects of equipment ownership, particularly focusing on spider cranes and their capabilities. They delve into the modifications and innovations in hydraulic systems, the pros and cons of battery versus engine power, and the challenges of deciding whether to keep or sell equipment. The discussion also touches on lessons learned from their experiences in business management, including the importance of hiring help, navigating payment terms, and maintaining customer relationships. Overall, the conversation provides valuable insights into the construction and welding industries, emphasizing the need for strategic decision-making and resource management.
@The.Shop.Incorporated
www.weburnforaliving.com
October 11th 2025
www.FabricatorOlympics.com
In this episode we discuss a different side of the welding business. Codie is a metal artist from Colorado and we discuss the business side of metal art.
Follow along with what he does at Sage Country Customs
October 11th 2025
www.FabricatorOlympics.com
Austin owns Dirt Road Metal Works out of Amite, Louisiana. He is the creator and admin of the Handrail & Gate Fabrication Tips and Tricks and CNC Plasma Tips and Tricks Uncensored.
You can find his pages here:
https://www.facebook.com/DRMWLLC
https://www.facebook.com/groups/406542684902002
https://www.facebook.com/groups/2126268564275506
October 11th 2025
www.FabricatorOlympics.com
We sit down with Jason from the Arc Junkies Podcast, Max from the CWB podcast and Frank from the Torch Tales podcast to discuss starting and running a business.
October 11th 2025
www.FabricatorOlympics.com
In this episode we catch up with a few of the people who competed and judged the 2024 Fabricator Olympics this year to discuss how it went and what is coming up in the future.
October 11th 2025
www.FabricatorOlympics.com
Today I give a quick look behind the scenes of the 2024 Fabricator Olympics and what it takes to put on an event like this.
Dillon runs Yeti Welding, a fabrication shop out of Spanish Fork, Utah.
We talk all about how he's built his business to include over a dozen team members and about the work his shop does.
@Yeti_welding
Dillon runs Yeti Welding, a fabrication shop out of Spanish Fork, Utah.
We talk all about how he's built his business to include over a dozen team members and about the work his shop does.
@Yeti_welding
Dillon runs Yeti Welding, a fabrication shop out of Spanish Fork, Utah.
We talk all about how he's built his business to include over a dozen team members and about the work his shop does.
@Yeti_welding
www.FabricatorOlympics.com
www.FabricatorOlympics.com
Dillon runs Yeti Welding, a fabrication shop out of Spanish Fork, Utah.
We talk all about how he's built his business to include over a dozen team members and about the work his shop does.
@Yeti_welding
www.FabricatorOlympics.com
www.FabricatorOlympics.com
Dillon runs Yeti Welding, a fabrication shop out of Spanish Fork, Utah.
We talk all about how he's built his business to include over a dozen team members and about the work his shop does.
@Yeti_welding
www.FabricatorOlympics.com
www.FabricatorOlympics.com
Nate is co-owner of Battle Born welding, a structural steel and ornamental iron contractor out of Gardnerville, Nevada.
www.FabricatorOlympics.com
www.FabricatorOlympics.com
Nate is co-owner of Battle Born welding, a structural steel and ornamental iron contractor out of Gardnerville, Nevada.
www.FabricatorOlympics.com
www.FabricatorOlympics.com
Scott is a single owner operator out of Rumford, Maine.
We dive into the beginning of how he got started and the growth of his small welding business.
www.FabricatorOlympics.com
www.FabricatorOlympics.com
Scott is a single owner operator out of Rumford, Maine.
We dive into the beginning of how he got started and the growth of his small welding business.
www.FabricatorOlympics.com
www.FabricatorOlympics.com
Real talk with the ones who get it done.
www.FabricatorOlympics.com
www.FabricatorOlympics.com
Recorded live at Fabtech 2023 as part of the first podcasters forum. Part 2 of my talk with Jason Becker and Max Ceron.
Real business talk with the ones who get it done.
@haskellcollect
www.haskellcollection.com
Real business talk with the ones who get it done.
@haskellcollect
www.haskellcollection.com
Real business talk with the ones who get it done.
@haskellcollect
www.haskellcollection.com
Real business talk with the ones who get it done.
@dans_welding_and_fab
www.FabricatorOlympics.com
Real business talk with the one who get it done.
@dans_welding_and_fab
www.FabricatorOlympics.com
Conversations with business owners who actually get it done.
Picket Master Pro
www.SaltCitySteel.org
Conversations with business owners who actually get it done.
Picket Master Pro
www.SaltCitySteel.org
Conversations with business owners who actually get it done.
Picket Master Pro
www.SaltCitySteel.org
Conversations with business owners who actually get it done.
In today's episode we cover:
- Mistakes we've made in the beginning
- Building a behind the scenes team
- What success means to Daniel
- How he got started
Conversations with business owners who actually get it done.
In today's episode we cover:
- Finding and keeping great customers
- The impossible family/work balance.
Conversations with business owners who actually get it done.
In today's episode we cover:
- Advice on starting out.
- Buying equipment and consumables.
- Estimating for plasma table work.
Picket Master Pro
www.SaltCitySteel.org
Conversations with business owners who actually get it done.
In today's episode we cover:
- Building a home shop.
- Chasing work that makes you happy.
Picket Master Pro
www.SaltCitySteel.org
Converstions with business owners who actually get it done.
In this episode we cover:
- What it's like working from a home based shop.
- Setting an attainable with scheduling jobs.
- How to deal with customers when you're weeks behind schedule.
www.saltcitysteel.org
Welding business owners who actually get it done.
In todays episode we talk about:
- Milestones and hard things Jason had to learn.
- How he started his Etsy business
- Bringing his Wife into the business.
- What it's like building custom forestry equipment.
Find him at @Apocfab
www.saltcitysteel.org
Welding business talk with people who actually get it done.
In today's episode, we talk about Jason's new tools. Fabtech, how he uses laser scanning to make heavy equipment parts, and shop organization.
Ends 3/22/23
@HarrisProducts
This is part #2 of a 3 part episode with Max from the CWB Association podcast and Jason from the Arc Junkies podcast.
Check out @ArcJunkies for part #1 and check out the CWB Association Welding Podcast on the 20th for part 3 of our talk.
Update on what's new for this year! AND My personal book recommendations for people who want to start their business or take it to the next level.
I take your questions and give you the best free advice I can.
If you have a question, please send it to us on Instagram @WeldingBusinessOwnersPodcast
In today's episode we talk about buying machines, how to pay for them and how that effects our business.
www.HarrisProductsGroup.com
Today we talk with Drew from Petty's Welding about all things business.
www.LincolnElectric.com
We sit down to talk with the welding business owners who actually get it done. Grab a notepad and get ready to learn something.
The history of Harris
We sit down to talk with the welding business owners who actually get it done. Grab a notepad and get ready to learn something.
The history of Harris
We sit down to talk with the welding business owners who actually get it done. Grab a notepad and get ready to learn something.
We sit down to talk with the welding business owners who actually get it done. Grab a notepad and get ready to learn something.
Today we talk about tools. What we have, what we want, and how it makes our business more efficient.
In this episode I talk with Jason Backer of the Arc Junkies Podcast and Max Ceron of the CWB Association podcast.
We meet at the last Fabtech and thought the 3 of us should do a trio podcast and I'm happy to say it finally happened.
We talk about taxes, insurance, and how David would go about if he started it all over again.
In the episode we talk about David's back work history, unrealized talent, how to quote jobs, shop work vs field work, and how much to charge for your work.
Today we talk about turning down customers and sending them elsewhere and the upcoming Fabtech (2021).
Today we talk about long term personal goals, leading without constant encouragement, encouraging our team to succeed on their own.
WeldingBusinessOwnersPodcast
JMWfabrication
In todays episode we talk about Laying out stairs, letting team members go, Bruces journey getting into welding and taking on jobs you've never done before.
We dive deeper into structuring deposits, setting up invoice terms and more about the hiring process.
We discuss pushing through challenges early on in business, empowering members of our team to problem solve on their own, being problem solvers for our customers, and the importance of cashflow early in business.
We talk about how it all started, estimating jobs, and hiring good talent.
@MetalWorkAustin