In this episode of the “Power of the Permian” podcast, Breezey Clark sits down with Juan Balderas, a seasoned West Texas rig welder, to explore the challenges and triumphs of life on the road.

Juan opens up about his personal battles with substance abuse and his inspiring journey to sobriety. They discuss the opportunities available in the welding trade and the critical importance of quality craftsmanship in this field. Juan also shares insights into the often-overlooked aspects of loneliness and mental health that many welders face. Additionally, he talks about how he’s using TikTok as an educational platform to share his knowledge and experiences with others.

Join us for a heartfelt conversation filled with wisdom and practical advice for anyone navigating the highs and lows of the welding profession.

Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more stories from the heart of the oilfield!

TikTok:
  / powerofthepermian  

#sobrietyjourney #oilandgas #rigwelder #oilandgasindustry

CHAPTERS:
0:00 - TikTok Welding Tips by Juan
0:50 - Importance of Welding Education & Training
2:27 - Overcoming Loneliness as a Welder
3:58 - Addressing Substance Abuse in Welding
7:06 - Journey to Sobriety: A Welder's Story
10:18 - TikTok's Influence on Welding Industry
11:22 - Welding Projects: Quality vs Quantity
17:55 - DIY Welding Machine Repairs
19:30 - Stress Management for Rig Welders
21:36 - Motivation & Incentives for Welders
23:15 - Challenges of Job Security in Welding
26:08 - The Art of Cutting Welds Correctly
28:04 - Certified Welding Inspectors Insights
34:35 - Understanding Theatrical Drag Ups in Welding
36:55 - Reasons Welders Drag Up
38:15 - Financial Waste in Welding Companies
42:10 - Top Paying Welding Careers 2023
48:00 - Getting Started in the Welding Field
56:45 - TikTok as a Welding Educational Tool
1:01:10 - Learning Welding Through Experience
1:03:05 - Overcoming Stigma in Asking Welding Questions
1:05:32 - Professional Boundaries in Welding
1:08:58 - Self-Love & Mental Health for Welders
1:11:00 - Concluding Welding Insights

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YouTube:    / @powerofthepermian  

Power of the Permian is produced by Forty Wolves Studios in Downtown Midland Texas
https://fortywolves.com
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