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Published on:

10th Sep 2024

Barbie the Welder's Journey of Personal and Professional Growth

Barbie the Welder tells her inspiring journey from welfare to welding sculptor. Barbie shares personal growth, relationship dynamics, and the importance of self-improvement and skilled trades. Discover her passion for craftsmanship and community impact.

In today's episode, we’re joined by the remarkable Barbie the Welder. Known for her incredible metal sculptures and entrepreneurial spirit, Barbie shares her transformative journey from an auto mechanic to a renowned sculptor and businesswoman.

We'll delve into her personal growth, overcoming ego-driven behavior, and the commitment she has to her relationship and self-improvement. We'll uncover how she balances independence with partnership, supports her fiancé, and the humbling lessons learned along the way. Barbie also emphasizes the importance of craftsmanship, continuous learning, and her profound joy in creating art.

Join us as Barbie sheds light on the challenges and rewards of mastering a skilled trade, the power of a positive mindset, and her dedication to influencing the next generation of welders and craftsmen. Whether you’re in the trades or simply passionate about personal growth and creativity, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration.

Barbie the Welders Bio:

I knew I was meant to be a metal sculptor when I saw the woman welding giant angel wings in the movie Cast Away starring Tom Hanks. I attended BOCES for welding & after graduation was hired at a local custom fabrication shop. I spent the next 5 years working with highly skilled craftsmen & learning everything I could about welding & fabrication. I spent every minute I wasn't at my job in my garage teaching myself how to design & create metal art. On September 1, 2014, after earning my Journeyman distinction in iron plate & sheet metal, I quit the job I loved to follow my dream of being a metal sculptor.

My unparalleled craftsmanship & innovative designs have allowed me to create one of a kind masterpieces for some of the world’s most iconic brands including Harley Davidson (2), & Baker's Bourbon (5). I've written & published six books, & taught thousands of people how to weld art through my YouTube Channel.

Barbie the Welders Social:

  • Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/BarbieTheWelder/
  • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/barbiethewelder/
  • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/theogbarbie
  • YouTube: YouTube.com/c/BarbieTheWelder

Timestamped overview:

00:00 Unprecedented collaboration, separate parts, remarkable communication, support.

10:21 Artist struggling financially, then found entrepreneur group.

14:49 Commitment, self-improvement, and overcoming business ownership challenges.

20:24 Experiencing the journey differently; more engaging now.

21:51 I prioritize quality time with my kids.

30:14 I strive for self-improvement and relationship support.

34:25 Unresolved issues become obstacles, focus on self.

37:52 Discussing Nate Bowman and creative inspirations.

43:44 Overcoming struggle, passionate sculptor achieves renowned success.

50:23 Internalizing experiences fuels passion and work success.

56:15 Spreading kindness to make the world brighter.

58:39 Subscribe for updates; follow Barbie the welder.

Key Takeaways:

Personal Growth and Balance: Barbie emphasized the importance of recognizing ego, contributing to building healthier relationships, and learning to balance independence with partnership.

Craftsmanship and Self-Improvement: She highlighted focusing on craftsmanship and continuous personal improvement, stressing the significance of revisiting and refining one's work.

Perseverance and Positivity: Barbie's journey from adversity to success underscores the vital role of perseverance, maintaining a positive mindset, and being part of a supportive community.

Barbie’s relentless pursuit of her passion and her dedication to self-improvement are truly motivating. Her story reminds us that embracing our journeys, with all their challenges, can lead to profound growth and fulfillment.

Personal growth, ego check, relationship dynamics, self-improvement, support in relationships, balancing independence, craftsmanship, women in industry, mutual love, respect in relationships, overcoming self-hatred, negative self-talk, personal change, teachable moments, lifelong learning, authenticity, self-reflection, self-responsibility, parenting through entrepreneurship, skill development, rebranding, mentorship, community support, perseverance, beginner in welding, welding skills, female welders, social media reality, artistic success, positive influence, creative process

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Show artwork for The Lost Art Of the Skilled Trades

About the Podcast

The Lost Art Of the Skilled Trades




Welcome to The Lost Art of the Skilled Trades, the ultimate podcast dedicated to celebrating and exploring the world of skilled trades. Hosted by Andrew Brown, a passionate advocate for the trades industry and co-founder of Toolfetch, this podcast is your go-to source for knowledge, inspiration, and practical advice. Andrew brings a unique perspective shaped by years of hands-on experience, entrepreneurial success, and a deep commitment to elevating the trades.





Dive into the fascinating and ever-evolving world of skilled trades, where creativity, problem-solving, and dedication come together to build the world around us. From carpentry and HVAC systems to electricians, plumbers, millwrights, and beyond, every episode uncovers the grit, determination, and artistry that define the people behind these essential professions.



Andrew’s journey began with a life-changing moment on September 11, 2001, when he worked alongside tradespeople, first responders, and community helpers at Ground Zero. This experience inspired him to dedicate his life to advocating for the unsung heroes of the trades. Through his company Toolfetch, Andrew has helped provide tools, equipment, and resources to industry professionals worldwide. Now, through this podcast, he continues his mission to spotlight the craftsmanship, hard work, and dedication of tradespeople everywhere.




Each episode features in-depth interviews with industry experts, seasoned professionals, and rising stars in the trades. From contractors and electricians to HVAC specialists, plumbers, carpenters, and more, listeners will gain insider knowledge about the skills, tools, and strategies needed to thrive in these essential fields. Andrew also speaks with educators, advocates, and business leaders who are working to inspire the next generation of tradespeople, offering a fresh perspective on the value and opportunities within the trades.




At its core, The Lost Art of the Skilled Trades is more than just a podcast — it’s a celebration of a culture built on pride in craftsmanship and an unwavering commitment to excellence. In a time when traditional career paths are overemphasized, this podcast shines a light on an alternative: rewarding careers in skilled trades that offer creativity, financial stability, and the satisfaction of building something tangible.




Whether you’re a seasoned trades professional, an aspiring craftsman, or simply curious about the industry, this podcast is your ultimate guide to the untold stories and secrets of success in trades like refrigeration, building, plumbing, and construction. Join Andrew Brown as he celebrates the artistry, resilience, and innovation of the skilled trades — and inspires a new generation to pick up the tools that keep our world running.




About Andrew Brown

Andrew Brown is a fervent advocate for the skilled trades and is dedicated to addressing and then fixing the trades shortage gap. Through platforms such as social media, podcasts, and live events, he tirelessly promotes the benefits of the trades to students, parents, and educators. For over 23 years Andrew along with his co-founder has built one of the country’s largest on-line tools and equipment eCommerce companies - Toolfetch - focused specifically on the Industrial & Construction Supply Industry.




Follow Andrew Brown

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

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-brown-b1736a5/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@andrew.l.brown

Website: https://www.toolfetch.com




About your host

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Andrew Brown