Show overview
Behind The Hood: The Welding Journey has been publishing since 2022, and across the 4 years since has built a catalogue of 87 episodes, alongside 1 trailer or bonus episode. That works out to roughly 20 hours of audio in total. Releases follow a fortnightly cadence, with the show now in its 36th season.
Episodes typically run under ten minutes — most land between 4 min and 11 min — with run-times ranging widely across the catalogue. None of the episodes are flagged explicit by the publisher. It is catalogued as a EN-language Business show.
The show is actively publishing — the most recent episode landed 3 months ago, with 2 episodes already out so far this year. The busiest year was 2023, with 43 episodes published. Published by Kentucky Welding Institute.
From the publisher
Behind The Hood is a podcast that will help welders gain the confidence needed to forge a successful career. This podcast will feature interviews with welding experts, tips and advice in the welding industry, and inspiring stories from welders who have overcome challenges to find success. We hope that this podcast will provide you with the motivation and information you need to pursue your dreams and achieve your goals. Thank you for listening, and we look forward to sharing the welding journey with you!
Latest Episodes
View all 87 episodesS2 Ep 7Why He Left Community College for Welding School (And What Happened Next)
Austin Allwinger is a 2022 Kentucky Welding Institute graduate from Redmond, Oregon. He grew up farming and ranching, found welding at 14 years old, and has now spent 3 years on the road — living out of a camper, learning fast, and building a career that gives him freedom without wrecking his finances or his faith.In this episode, we get into:What it was like growing up in Central Oregon (and watching the town explode in growth)How he got started in welding when his high school didn’t even have a shop classWhy he wasn’t satisfied with community college training (and what he did about it)The reality of your first “road job” vs what recruiters tell youOutage work, long hours, and meeting other welders through connectionsLiving mobile in a camper and why buying a house right now doesn’t make sense for himThe money traps that keep welders broke (even when they make great checks)Faith on the road, staying disciplined, and avoiding the culture that ruins careersWhat separates welders who build a life vs welders who crash out
S2 Ep 5Getting into the Trades: Union with Ethan Holloway
Ethan Holloway (KWI Class of 2022) is a union pipe welder with UA Local 614, running tough night shifts and high-stakes 100% x-ray work in Texas. In this episode, Ethan breaks down what most people don’t understand about welding life: union benefits, per diem, shot records, discipline, faith, finances, and what it takes to build a legacy—not just a paycheck.If you’re 17–25 and wondering if you have what it takes, this one’s for you.
S2 Ep 4From $15 an Hour to Financial Freedom
In this episode of the KWI Podcast, we sit down with Dylan Lacey, a 2018 Kentucky Welding Institute graduate who traveled from Rome, New York to Kentucky chasing something bigger than a paycheck. Dylan opens up about his journey—from growing up around hard farm work, struggling with discipline and direction as a teenager, working long hours for limited pay, and ultimately making the decision to bet on himself and attend KWI. What followed was a transformation built on work ethic, humility, faith, and relentless consistency. This conversation goes far beyond welding. It’s about earning your sleep, choosing discipline over comfort, and building a life with purpose—on and off the jobsite. Whether you’re considering a career in the skilled trades, currently in welding school, or already in the field, this episode delivers real-world perspective from someone who lived it.
S2 Ep 3Welding After the Air Force
In this episode of the Kentucky Welding Institute: Behind the Hood, with the Grads, as we sit down with Andreas Kariotis, a man with a remarkable journey from the Air Force to becoming a skilled welder. Born and raised in New Gloucester, Maine, Andreas shares his experiences growing up in a close-knit community, his time serving in the Air Force, and the transition to a new career in welding. Discover the challenges and triumphs he faced along the way, and gain insights into the world of welding and the importance of perseverance. Whether you're interested in welding, military life, or personal growth, this episode offers something for everyone. Don't miss out on Andreas's inspiring story!
S2 Ep 2First Female on the 100K Wall: Rhiannon Howard’s Story from Welder to Business Owner
Graduate Rhiannon Howard joins us to share her journey with welding and her experience in the field. Rhiannon was the first female on the KWI 100K Wall — and now she turned her welding career into her own business, Double L Metal Works. Rhiannon talks about hitting the road after graduation, the skills she built along the way, and how those same skills now fuel her custom metalwork, from jewelry to handcrafted belt buckles. https://www.doublelmetalworks.com/
S2 Ep 1With the Grads: Grossing $3,950/Week at 18 Years Old
Recent KWI graduate, Landon Earlywine, is on his first job in Logansport, Indiana — already grossing $3,950 a week in a local fab shop. In this episode, Bobby and Landon dive into his welding journey, what the transition from school to the field has looked like, his current setup in Indiana, and where he plans to take his career next.
Ep 7979 - This Welder Made $100K+ Right After School!
We talk to Braden, a welder who made over $100K right after welding school. Learn about his journey and success in the welding industry!Watch Braden and I tackle a monster coupon. We discuss everything from welding techniques, career experiences, and challenges faced on the job, to insights on how to save and invest wisely as a young welder. Learn More: https://weld.kwi.us/podcastVisit KWI's YouTube channel and access a ton of free content about forging a successful welding career: https://kwi.us/youtubeTEXT OR CALL US: (606) 291-2787
Ep 8080 - A Female Welder's Journey to Six Figures in 1 year – Behind The Hood
Shelby shares her journey from high school to six figures welding..Watch as we tackle a monster coupon while Shelby shares her journey from high school welding to making $100K in her first year after KWI. Learn about life on night shift, stainless vs. carbon welding preferences, and valuable industry insights for new welders.Learn More: https://weld.kwi.us/podcastVisit KWI's YouTube channel and access a ton of free content about forging a successful welding career: https://kwi.us/youtubeTEXT OR CALL US: (606) 291-2787
Ep 7878 - How to Build Your IDEAL Welding Career!
We are joined by Scott and Tyler from the United Association of Pipefitters. They discuss the various opportunities available for welders and how they can take control of their careers. The United Association represents plumbers, pipefitters, and welders, and offers them the flexibility to work across different states. They also talk about the massive demand for skilled workers in various industries and the benefits of joining their organization. 77 Learn More: https://weld.kwi.us/podcast Visit KWI's YouTube channel and access a ton of free content about forging a successful welding career: https://kwi.us/youtube TEXT OR CALL US: (606) 291-2787 FREE Welding Checklists to Kickstart Your Career: https://weld.kwi.us/checklists STAY CONNECTED: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kentuckyweldinginstitute TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kentuckyweldinginstitute Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KentuckyWeldingInstitute
Ep 7777 - What you SHOULDN'T Do As New Welder!
Ashley discusses the common mistakes that young welders make when they are starting their careers and trying to network in the industry. He emphasizes the importance of not misrepresenting oneself or one's skills, not being arrogant, continuously learning, and being punctual. 77 Learn More: https://weld.kwi.us/podcast Visit KWI's YouTube channel and access a ton of free content about forging a successful welding career: https://kwi.us/youtube TEXT OR CALL US: (606) 291-2787 FREE Welding Checklists to Kickstart Your Career: https://weld.kwi.us/checklists STAY CONNECTED: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kentuckyweldinginstitute TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kentuckyweldinginstitute Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KentuckyWeldingInstitute
Ep 7676 - How This Welder Built His Successful Welding Career
Ashley sits down with KWI Graduate and instructor Austin Arnett to talk about his journey in the welding Industry. TAKE OUR VIRTUAL TOUR: https://kwi.us/virtual-tour TEXT OR CALL US: (606) 291-2787 To learn more about our programs, visit: kwi.us/programs STAY CONNECTED: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kentuckywel... TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kentuckyweldi... Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KentuckyWeld... Twitter: https://twitter.com/KYWeldInstitute
Ep 7175 - How Welders Get Jobs After Weld School
Ashley sits down with KWI Graduate and now instructor to talk about opportunities he has had since being at KWI TAKE OUR VIRTUAL TOUR: https://kwi.us/virtual-tour TEXT OR CALL US: (606) 291-2787 To learn more about our programs, visit: kwi.us/programs STAY CONNECTED: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kentuckywel... TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kentuckyweldi... Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KentuckyWeld... Twitter: https://twitter.com/KYWeldInstitute
Ep 7474 - Golden Opportunity For Welders!
Ashley sits down with Monty and Jeffery who work for the Boilermakers Organization to talk about all the opportunities they offer young welders coming out of Weld School. TAKE OUR VIRTUAL TOUR: https://kwi.us/virtual-tour TEXT OR CALL US: (606) 291-2787 To learn more about our programs, visit: kwi.us/programs STAY CONNECTED: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kentuckywel... TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kentuckyweldi... Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KentuckyWeld... Twitter: https://twitter.com/KYWeldInstitute
Ep 7373 - Why Certifications Will LEVEL UP Your Welding Career
Qualifications and Certifications mean different things in the welding world and who you get them from matters even more. Today KWI's Lead Instructor Ashley Applegate shares the differences and benefits of Qualifications and Certifications Learn More: https://weld.kwi.us/podcast Visit KWI's YouTube channel and access a ton of free content about forging a successful welding career: https://kwi.us/youtube TEXT OR CALL US: (606) 291-2787 FREE Welding Checklists to Kickstart Your Career: https://weld.kwi.us/checklists STAY CONNECTED:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kentuckyweldinginstitute TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kentuckyweldinginstitute Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KentuckyWeldingInstitute
Ep 7272 - What It's Like Switching Careers After 25+ Years | Father Son Welding Duo
Ashley sits down with KWI Graduate Grayson Dales to talk about the unique experience he's had working with his dad. Learn More: https://weld.kwi.us/podcast Visit KWI's YouTube channel and access a ton of free content about forging a successful welding career: https://kwi.us/youtube TEXT OR CALL US: (606) 291-2787 FREE Welding Checklists to Kickstart Your Career: https://weld.kwi.us/checklists STAY CONNECTED:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kentuckyweldinginstitute TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kentuckyweldinginstitute Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KentuckyWeldingInstitute
Ep 7171 - The One KEY That Will Take Your Welding Skills To The Next Level.
KWI's Lead Instructor Ashley Applegate shares what high school students with welding experience can do to be even more prepared for welding school as well as advice for future students who may have little to no experience and how they can set themselves up for success when training to become a welder. Learn More: https://weld.kwi.us/podcast Visit KWI's YouTube channel and access a ton of free content about forging a successful welding career: https://kwi.us/youtube TEXT OR CALL US: (606) 291-2787 FREE Welding Checklists to Kickstart Your Career: https://weld.kwi.us/checklists STAY CONNECTED:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kentuckyweldinginstitute TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kentuckyweldinginstitute Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KentuckyWeldingInstitute
Ep 7070 - This ONE THING Will Get You Hired For Welding Jobs.
John Abrams is a former KWI student who is now a successful welder in the industry today. He started welding later in life and took a non conventional route to starting in his career in this interview he shares tips and tricks that have helped him throughout his career. Learn More: https://weld.kwi.us/podcast Visit KWI's YouTube channel and access a ton of free content about forging a successful welding career: https://kwi.us/youtube TEXT OR CALL US: (606) 291-2787 FREE Welding Checklists to Kickstart Your Career: https://weld.kwi.us/checklists STAY CONNECTED:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kentuckyweldinginstitute TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kentuckyweldinginstitute Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KentuckyWeldingInstitute
Ep 6969 - The ONE Thing You MUST Know Before Picking Your First Welding Job!
Are you brand new to the welding industry? Should you take the 1st job your offered right out of welding school? Ashley Applegate has been in the welding industry for 25+ years and gives you his best advice for new welders who want to land high paying jobs in the welding industry. Learn More: https://weld.kwi.us/podcast Visit KWI's YouTube channel and access a ton of free content about forging a successful welding career: https://kwi.us/youtube TEXT OR CALL US: (606) 291-2787 FREE Welding Checklists to Kickstart Your Career: https://weld.kwi.us/checklists STAY CONNECTED:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kentuckyweldinginstitute TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kentuckyweldinginstitute Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KentuckyWeldingInstitute
Ep 6868 - Discover the Ultimate Welding Employment Hack | KWI Interviews Wilie Messer
Ashley sits down with WELD.com's Wilie Messer to discuss educating the next generation of welders all the way to new technologies welders are utilizing to get the job done. Learn More: https://weld.kwi.us/podcast Visit KWI's YouTube channel and access a ton of free content about forging a successful welding career: https://kwi.us/youtube TEXT OR CALL US: (606) 291-2787 FREE Welding Checklists to Kickstart Your Career: https://weld.kwi.us/checklists STAY CONNECTED:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kentuckyweldinginstitute TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kentuckyweldinginstitute Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KentuckyWeldingInstitute
Ep 6767 - These 4 Tips Will Help Your Welding!
Ashley explains W.E.L.D. which encourages you to focus and work hard at welding as well as being open to learning new techniques from others with different experiences. Learn More: https://weld.kwi.us/podcast Visit KWI's YouTube channel and access a ton of free content about forging a successful welding career: https://kwi.us/youtube TEXT OR CALL US: (606) 291-2787 FREE Welding Checklists to Kickstart Your Career: https://weld.kwi.us/checklists STAY CONNECTED:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kentuckyweldinginstitute TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kentuckyweldinginstitute Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KentuckyWeldingInstitute