Irregardless

In Part 2, Rachel continues her conversation with Jonah Myerberg, CTO and co-founder of Desktop Metal. Jonah breaks down exactly how Desktop Metal's binder jetting technology works and why it's fundamentally different from the laser-based metal printing that came before it. From printing green parts at room temperature to sintering in a furnace, he makes a complex manufacturing process surprisingly easy to understand.The conversation gets into the real economics of scaling a deep tech company, what it actually takes to bring metal additive manufacturing to mass production, and why Desktop Metal's approach has the potential to change how things are made across industries. If you've ever wondered how metal parts go from powder to a finished product, this is the episode.

In Part 1 of Ep. 47, Jonah Myerberg, CTO and co-founder of Desktop Metal, joins Rachel to share his unconventional career path through mechanical engineering. He discusses his time designing power tools at Black & Decker, developing speaker systems at Bose, and later revolutionizing battery technology for Formula 1 racing. Jonah covers his work at A123 Systems developing high-performance battery packs for Mercedes and Porsche, and how hybrid regulations transformed motorsports. Part 2 will dive deeper into Desktop Metal's founding story and what makes the company different in the additive manufacturing space.

Emmy Ross, Director of Business Development at Astro Metal Craft and StellarCraft, joins us to talk about growing a custom metal fabrication business and the unique challenge of marketing to two very different worlds: architects and industrial buyers. Emmy walks us through landmark projects like the Minneapolis-St. Paul Airport and the Minnesota State Office Building, and explains how StellarCraft is carving out its own identity in architectural metals.Emmy's path to metal fabrication is anything but straight. After 15 years running a wedding and event planning business, she came on full-time at the family business in 2023 and hasn't looked back. We cover industrial marketing, the time/cost/quality tradeoff, a fresh ERP rollout, and what it takes to spin StellarCraft off as its own women-owned certified company.

In this episode, Shep Hickey sits down with Matthew Nix, founder of Nix Companies and fifth-generation owner of what started as a blacksmith shop in the late 1800s. Matthew shares the story of a family business that spent four generations quietly defying the odds, never growing, never dying, staying strictly mom-and-pop. When Matthew joined, everything changed.He walks through how he spotted the opportunity in the baby boomer wealth transfer, built a roll-up strategy around adjacent metal shops, and created a shared services model that lets each location stay lean while punching above its weight. They also dig into the entrepreneurial mindset, the cash flow lesson he learned the hard way during a record growth year, how mentorship has shaped his career, and why watching his 11-year-old build a video game with AI in an afternoon was a wake-up call. Oh, and his family's full story is chronicled in the book Forging Ahead, available now on Amazon.

This week we're crossing the border for the very first time! Brooke Laing and Eric Hyatt join us all the way from Toronto, both steamfitter apprentices with Local 46 and co-hosts of their own podcast, Two Bolts Short of a Flange. We get into the ins and outs of the Canadian apprenticeship system, what it's actually like to work in a steel mill, and the very real generational gap that's been left behind in the skilled trades. Brooke also opens up about her experience as a woman in the trades, how she became a moderator for the Sisterhood of Trades, and why LinkedIn has been a game changer for tradespeople looking to build their careers. Plus, we hear the hilarious origin story behind their podcast name and how a late night trip to Buffalo with Nush sparked it all.

What happens when a girl who's supposed to follow the "safe" path falls in love with her Ford Mustang instead?Nushrat "Nush" Ahmed didn't take the route her Bengali family had mapped out for her, and thank God she didn't. From turning wrenches on muscle cars to earning the name "Miss Swiss" behind a CNC machine, Nush has built a career that most people twice her age would envy. Now, as CEO and Co-Founder of the Sisterhood of Trades, she's making sure the next generation of tradeswomen don't have to figure it all out alone.Shep sits down with Nush to talk about what it really takes to bet on yourself when everyone around you has a different plan. Leaving home, choosing a trade school over a traditional four-year university, and finding your people along the way. They dig into the skilled trades gap, what visibility actually means for women in manufacturing, the world of podcasting, and why nothing beats the sound of an engine.This one's for anyone who ever knew exactly what they wanted to do, even when nobody else understood it.

Shep Hickey sits down with Jeff Matuszak, owner of Carolina Metal Fabricators, a Raleigh-based industrial fabrication company specializing in handrails, platforms, mezzanines, and custom stainless, aluminum, and carbon work. But as Jeff explains, the scope of what they do is always evolving. Each year brings new projects and new opportunities.In this conversation, Jeff shares his entrepreneurial journey from his early years to running multiple companies today. He opens up about how COVID and 2020 tested him and his business, the importance of mentoring the next generation, and why he believes dwelling on mistakes is one of the biggest traps for new entrepreneurs. They also go off on a few interesting tangents, including what it would actually take to solve the energy crisis and how AI is reshaping the industry and the world at large.

From Poland to Dominos Pizza to Director of Engineering. Jack Gorzko's story is the American Dream in action.In this episode, Shep sits down with Jack Gorzko, Director of Engineering at Canam Steel Corp, to talk steel joists, structural engineering, and the winding road that brought him from growing up in Poland to leading projects for one of the top names in steel right here in St. Louis.Jack opens up about his early days in America. Navigating the green card process, working odd jobs to get on his feet, and weathering the 2008 recession before finding his footing in the industry. He breaks down the difference between civil and structural engineering, why he made the switch, and what draws him to understanding how structures stay safe and standing.The conversation also dives into the seasonal rhythms of the steel business, Jack's approach to management (both giving and receiving it), and how AI is starting to reshape the engineering world.A great conversation about hard work, growth, and building a career from the ground up.

Lee Letourneau sits down with Anthony Jacobs in Chicago for the final episode of our FABTECH 2025 series. Anthony is the owner of Vigilante Welding and runs the popular YouTube channel Meltin' Metal Anthony, where he shares everything he knows about welding, entrepreneurship, and running a business.Anthony kicks things off with the story behind Vigilante Welding's name, which goes back to the old west days in Ennis, Montana, where a group of vigilantes banded together to protect their town from highwaymen when there was no sheriff. The town still honors that legacy today, and Anthony carries it forward with his business.Anthony's welding journey started in Florida around his dad's dump truck business. At 18, he picked up a welder to fix some broken equipment, and things took off from there. Completely self-taught, he soaked up everything he could from the welders and business owners around him before making the leap to Montana, building his house from the ground up, and launching Vigilante Welding.Lee and Anthony also dig into the future of the trade, covering Bryzos, AI, robotics, and automated welding.

In this episode, Shep sits down with Evan Uyetake, Head of Sales at Leadline Marketing, live from FABTECH 2025. Leadline specializes in helping companies in the industrial, manufacturing, and fabrication space build smarter marketing strategies.Shep and Evan dive into why so many companies in the metals industry get marketing wrong. It's not just about spending money, it's about spending it wisely. They talk through the importance of diversification, discernment, and having real strategy behind every dollar. Evan shares how Leadline helps companies cut through the noise, while Shep opens up about Bryzos's own experience with traditional marketing and why a one-size-fits-all approach doesn't work in this space.The conversation also gets into what happens when sales and marketing actually work together. Evan breaks down why alignment between the two is critical and how that partnership ladders up to real business success.Evan also shares why the Bryzos app stopped him in his tracks. It's rare, he says, to see a platform nail both the intuitive experience and the design, and Bryzos does both.Whether you're rethinking your marketing strategy or just curious what good looks like, this one's packed with insight.

In this episode, Bryzos COO Lee Letourneau sits down with José Reyes, owner of Texas Arc Welding Academy and Texas Arc Welding Supply. José shares how welding offered him a new path when many around him were heading straight into construction. A high school counselor introduced him to the trade and connected him with a welder who helped launch his career. From there, he built a strong foundation in pipe welding and worked across multiple companies and job sites. José explains how the passion of his own instructor inspired him to give back to the next generation. About a year ago, he opened Texas Arc Welding Academy to train new welders, followed by Texas Arc Welding Supply to bring equipment, PPE, and specialty products directly to the community. He and Lee also talk about technology, time savings, and why innovation matters in the metals industry. José believes anything that saves time is worth the cost because time is the one thing you can never get back. That mindset is what brings him to FABTECH every year to see the tools and ideas that push the trade forward. Thank you, Mr. Reyes! 

In this episode, Rachel Hartman sits down with Laynie Locke, founder of Lips and Sticks Welding, at FABTECH 2025. Laynie shares how she built her brand creating fun and feminine hood decals, stickers, hats, and apparel designed to give women in welding a way to express themselves on the job.Before welding, Laynie spent 15 years in marketing, often working with welding schools and shops. Being around the industry sparked her curiosity, and she eventually enrolled in a welding course. With a background that mixed creativity and hands-on skill, welding clicked right away. She pushed through long training days and describes striking her first arc as “love at first spark.”As she started welding, she realized there were no hood stickers or gear that matched her style. So she made her own, which became the start of Lips and Sticks Welding. Today she blends her design background with her passion for the trade, creates gear for women across the industry, reps brands like Bocomal, and advocates for PPE built specifically for women.Laynie’s story is creative, inspiring, and a powerful example of following your passion and building something uniquely your own.

This week on Irregardless, host Rachel Hartman sits down with Steve Kost, metal artist and founder of Metal Health Artwork, for an inspiring conversation recorded from FABTECH 2025!Steve’s journey is one of grit, healing, and transformation. From his early days as a Seabee in the U.S. Navy, serving in Somalia in the 1990s, to his years as an ironworker in Chicago, Steve’s hands have always built, repaired, and created. But it wasn’t until later in life, as he faced the weight of PTSD and the challenges many veterans experience after service, that he found true purpose through art.What started as “tinkering” with old typewriters and mechanical scraps turned into an extraordinary outlet. Steve began welding small creatures, dinosaurs, animals, intricate sculptures, crafted entirely from repurposed metal parts. His work evolved into stunning, expressive art that’s now been featured in galleries, the Library of Congress, the National Veterans Creative Arts Festival, and even commissioned by Google’s Art Director for a Veterans Day piece.In this heartfelt episode, Steve shares how creativity became therapy, how passion can rebuild purpose, and how the most meaningful art often comes from the hardest battles. His story is a powerful reminder that it’s never too late to find healing through creation.Learn more about Steve’s work and Metal Health Artwork at stevekost.com 

Recorded from the show floor at FABTECH 2025, host Rachel Hartman sits down with Emily Wilkins, CEO and Founder of Marketing Metal; a bold, no-BS agency built for the “Radical Job Shop” of the metals industry.Emily shares her journey growing up near Detroit in a GM family, trading a mechanical engineering path for a passion in marketing, and ultimately founding Marketing Metal, the “anti-agency” reshaping how manufacturers tell their stories.Rachel and Emily dive into why marketing yourself is harder (and more important) than ever, the power of authentic storytelling, and why people in this industry don’t want cookie-cutter marketing. They also draw parallels to how Bryzos has taken a similar path — through its docuseries and this very podcast.A fun, candid, and relatable conversation for anyone pushing the boundaries of what marketing in manufacturing can be!Check out Emily’s work at marketingmetal.com.

In this episode, recorded from the show floor at FABTECH 2025, Shep sits down with John King, the owner of JK Welding in Texas, to share an incredible story of grit, growth, and building a fabrication powerhouse from the ground up.John takes us back to the early days of his career, working through a string of grueling trade jobs—from oil mopping to HVAC to brick laying—before discovering welding. Once he struck his first arc, he was hooked. Starting out with small garage projects, John quickly found himself choosing between overtime at work or chasing bigger welding opportunities on the side. Eventually, he took the leap and left his full-time job to pursue his dream.What started as a one-man operation has since grown into JK Welding, a full-capacity, one-stop job shop handling everything from stainless welding and pipe fabrication to skids, commissioned art installations, and more. The shop even holds two world records: the World’s Largest Windchime and the World’s Largest Hex Nut. With rapid expansion underway, including a new location opening in 2026, John’s story shows what’s possible when determination meets opportunity.aThroughout the conversation, John shares his perspective on what it really takes to be an entrepreneur today, why grit is non-negotiable, and how persistence can turn a spark of interest into a legacy.

This week on Irregardless, Rachel Hartman sits down with Demi Knight Clark — welder, manufacturing and automation enthusiast, “Steminist,” and founder of Reimagined Rosies.Demi’s passion for the trades runs deep. Inspired by her grandmother, an original Rosie the Riveter and welder during WWII, Demi carried the “Knight” name forward as a tribute to her roots. From early vo-tech classes to a career in construction and welding, she has made it her mission to destigmatize the trades and show the next generation that picking up a blowtorch can be just as empowering as choosing a college path.Through her nonprofit, Reimagined Rosies, Demi introduces kids ages 11–16 to welding and robotics—helping them explore creativity, build confidence, and see new possibilities for their future.In this conversation, Demi and Rachel dig into the skilled trades gap: what it really means, how we got here, and how businesses can address it. Demi argues that closing the gap isn’t just about inspiring the next generation, but also about investing in today’s workforce—equipping them with new skills and technologies that make them more valuable, not replaceable.They also touch on women in the trades, the importance of creating welcoming spaces for all, and how diversity and access can dramatically expand the pool of talent in manufacturing.It’s an inspiring and practical conversation that bridges history, passion, and strategy for the future of the industry.

Irregardless recorded from the show floor at FABTECH 2025!In this episode, Rachel sits down with Sarah Stork, Welding Artist, to hear how her passion for metalwork first sparked and grew into a full-time career. Sarah shares how it all began with a practical need, learning code welding at community college to fix a fence on her farm. That spark quickly turned into a calling, leading her to compete in SkillsUSA’s Welded Sculpture competitions and ultimately launch her career as a professional artist.Today, Sarah creates large-scale commissioned sculptures for brands and companies across the globe. Her projects range from a massive steel turtle to a towering cassowary destined for Australia, along with other intricately welded animal sculptures that showcase both her craftsmanship and creativity.Rachel and Sarah also dive into a conversation about the skilled trades gap, why it matters, how we can close it, and what Sarah calls the importance of building the "Tool Belt" Generation. She makes the case for why more young people should be encouraged to pick up the trades, and why the industry needs to invest in supporting them.This is the first of several conversations recorded at FABTECH 2025. Stay tuned for more powerful stories straight from the show floor!

On this episode of Irregardless, we’re kicking off a special spotlight series: Women in the Trades. Over the next few weeks, we’ll be featuring conversations with women across welding, manufacturing, and the metals industry who are making an impact and paving the way for the next generation.We’re starting with none other than Barbie Parsons—better known as Barbie the Welder. A Metal Artist, Author, Keynote Speaker, and advocate for the trades, Barbie’s journey is as inspiring as it is bold.She shares with Shep how she went from a life marked by struggle and substance abuse to a new beginning sparked by the movie Cast Away. Determined to change her life, she enrolled in welding school, took a job in the field, and eventually made the leap to pursue metal art full time. Starting with small pieces like spoon rings and horseshoe art, she faced doubt from many around her but never stopped believing in herself. Today, Barbie creates sculptures valued at over $10,000 for brands like Harley-Davidson, Burger King, and the American Welding Society.Beyond her commissioned pieces, she pours her heart into meaningful projects like the Veterans Healing Farm, using her art to give back and inspire others. This conversation is filled with grit, positivity, and the reminder that we all have the power to change our lives and become more.

In Part 2 of our conversation, Tim Reboulet, COO of M6 Global Defense, takes us deeper into the world of the U.S. Secret Service and beyond.Tim shares what it really takes to make it into the agency, including the unforgiving training process where one failed test means you’re out. He explains the constant challenge of protecting the President in public settings, the tension between Secret Service protocols and White House priorities, and how agents are trained to spot counterfeit currency at a glance.From presidential detail to K–12 campuses, Tim draws powerful parallels between safeguarding world leaders and protecting children in schools. He also breaks down the real factors contributing to school safety concerns today, plus a lighter moment revealing the Secret Service’s trick to a perfect J-turn (don’t try this one at home).This episode offers an unfiltered look at the realities of security — from the highest office in the nation to the classrooms in our communities.

In Part 1 of this two-part conversation, Shep sits down with Tim Reboulet, COO of M6 Global Defense, to unpack a remarkable career in security, protection, and leadership. With nearly 30 years of experience across law enforcement, the U.S. Secret Service, cybersecurity, and K–12 safety, Tim’s path began in local policing before enduring the rigorous selection process to join the Secret Service.Tim reflects on the pivotal events of the 1990s including Waco, the Oklahoma City bombing, and the first World Trade Center attack that cemented his resolve to help safeguard the nation. He also shares a behind-the-scenes look at his time protecting the President, the deep knowledge of U.S. currency required to combat counterfeiting, and how those experiences shaped his approach to security today.This episode offers an inside perspective on the formative years of a career dedicated to keeping people, whether world leaders or schoolchildren, safe.

In this episode of Irregardless, Shep sits down with Rob Rolves, President of Foreman Fabricators in St. Louis, a decorative and ornamental fabrication company whose work can be seen across the city’s skyline and landmarks.Rob shares the unique path that led him from engineering student to history major, and eventually to Foreman Fabricators, where he worked his way up to the top. He talks about his close relationship with Brian Foreman, the company’s founder, and the profound impact of having a mentor.The conversation explores the evolution of fabrication, from traditional tools to the digital innovations shaping the industry today. Rob opens up about navigating the transition of ownership, developing his leadership style, and the eye-opening experience of becoming president.They also dive into Rob’s love of history, especially the Middle Ages, and his recent travels through Europe, where he uncovered more about his own family’s past.

In this episode of Irregardless, Shep sits down with Jim Vinoski, President of Cosgrove Content and Consulting, host and founder of the Manufacturing Talks podcast and web show, and a longtime Forbes contributor focused on the manufacturing space. After decades spent working across the industry, Jim has turned his attention to consulting and writing, sharing insights on the future of manufacturing, the trends he’s seeing, and the challenges that need addressing.Their conversation covers why it’s so important for the United States to stay at the top when it comes to manufacturing, and how slipping from that position is directly tied to the growing skilled trades worker shortage. Jim explains what it will really take to mobilize and close that gap, why this issue goes beyond economics and into national security territory, and what his “magic wand fix” would be if he could change one thing in the industry today. The two also get personal, swapping thoughts on parenting in today’s tech-heavy world and the impact of growing up with constant access to screens.This is a wide-ranging and eye-opening episode with someone who brings decades of experience and a refreshingly honest take on what the manufacturing industry really needs.

In this episode of Irregardless, Shep sits down with Jared Cochran, Owner of Speed Fabrication out of Perryville, Missouri. What began as a father-son project to build a CNC plasma table turned into a thriving fabrication business that Jared runs with his wife. From decorative metal signs to residential, artistic, and government work, Speed Fab has grown from a garage hobby into a full-blown powerhouse fabrication shop.Jared shares how losing his full-time job led him to take the leap into entrepreneurship, how the COVID pandemic unexpectedly accelerated their growth, and why delivering American-made products remains at the core of everything they do. He and Shep talk about the evolution of their business, adapting in the face of adversity, embracing automation and new tech, and why speed is more essential than ever. They also dive into how Speed Fab and Bryzos first connected—and what’s ahead as the next generation joins the shop.

This week on Irregardless, we’re joined by Rob Mihalko, founder and principal of Spectus Strategy and a trusted expert in digital marketplaces.Rob shares hard-earned lessons from years helping marketplace businesses grow and scale. From his early days at Ariba to sharing his expertise with the next generation of marketplace leaders. We get into what actually drives sustainable marketplace growth, how strategy shifts over time, and what most teams get wrong when trying to scale.He also gives us a peek into his work as an educator at Stanford, where he teaches the next wave of innovators building platforms and marketplaces.Whether you’re in the trenches of a startup or advising one, Rob’s insights will change how you think about growth.

In this episode, Bryzos COO Lee Letourneau sits down with Chris Luecke, host of Manufacturing Happy Hour and PubCast Worldwide, for a wide-ranging conversation that’s as insightful as it is entertaining. They explore how Chris went from a career in automation at Rockwell to becoming one of the most recognizable voices in the industrial space through podcasting. He shares how Manufacturing Happy Hour evolved from a side project to a full-time platform, and what it’s taught him about the future of the trades, technology, and storytelling in B2B.The two dive into how the U.S. views skilled trade careers compared to other countries, especially in Europe, where trades are seen as equal to traditional college paths. They talk about the accelerating role of automation and digital platforms in reshaping industrial workflows, and Chris offers his perspective on what he’s seeing in the industry when it comes to tech adoption, including who is pushing forward and who is still falling behind.Chris also opens up about the origin stories behind both of his podcasts, how and why he launched them, and when things really started to gain momentum with Manufacturing Happy Hour. Finally, he shares his thoughts on Bryzos and the Irregardless podcast, and why more B2B companies should lean into content creation to connect with their audience in more meaningful ways.It’s a fun, thoughtful, and easygoing conversation with one of the most influential voices in the industrial space.

In Part 2 of this conversation, Shep Hickey and Lisa Reisman continue their discussion, diving into how MetalMiner evolved from a simple blog into a platform offering powerful forecasting tools for the metals industry.They explore the complexities of metal pricing, market volatility, and why critical thinking still matters in a world increasingly shaped by A.I. Lisa shares her perspective on what A.I. can and can’t do, and what the future of automation might look like for industrial buying and forecasting.She also opens up about her leadership style, how she builds and leads a high-performing team, and the values that drive MetalMiner’s success in a constantly changing space.A thought-provoking conversation about data, technology, and the human side of innovation in metals.

In Part 1 of this two-part conversation, Shep Hickey sits down with Lisa Reisman, CEO and founder of MetalMiner, for an engaging and wide-ranging conversation that traces the unexpected journey that led her into the metals industry.Lisa shares her unconventional path, from early career twists and wild job stories to her first steps into aluminum trading. She talks about how she and her husband launched MetalMiner as a blog, what it was like to break into the space, and how she navigated a new industry with fresh eyes and relentless curiosity.They wrap Part 1 with the story of MetalMiner’s pivot from a niche content site to the data-driven forecasting platform that serves buyers and suppliers across the industry today.Don’t miss Part 2 next week, where Shep and Lisa dig deeper into industry disruption, marketplaces, A.I., and what it really takes to innovate in metals.

This week on Irregardless, we sit down with Sam Goodwin, an entrepreneur, speaker, and St. Louis native, to hear a story that is as unthinkable as it is inspiring.In 2019, while on a mission to visit every country in the world, Sam was captured in Syria and held hostage for 63 days under the Syrian regime. With no formal charges and little hope, he endured solitary confinement, interrogation, and extreme uncertainty, while his family worked behind the scenes with the U.S. and international governments to bring him home.But this is not just a story about survival. It is about transformation.Since his release, Sam has taken his experience and turned it into a platform to help others grow through adversity. With a background in startups and a passion for personal and professional development, he now speaks around the world on how to navigate the unknown, lead with clarity, and turn hardship into strength.We talk about mindset, risk, faith, purpose, and what it means to move forward when nothing feels certain. Whether you are building a business, leading a team, or going through something difficult in your personal life, this episode will stay with you.

20 episodes in and still just getting started. For this episode, we’re looking back at some of our favorite moments from the first 19 episodes of the show.Hosted by the Bryzos team—Shep Hickey, Lee Letourneau, and Rachel Hartman—Irregardless brings together real, unscripted conversations with guests from across the metals industry, startups, tech, and beyond.Over the course of the season, we’ve covered a lot: from raw lessons in business, leadership, and entrepreneurship to insights on software, AI, marketplaces, and how Bryzos is changing the game. We’ve heard from shop floors and boardrooms, fabricators and founders, and we’ve had a few laughs along the way.We’ve also been incredibly fortunate to be joined by so many amazing guests who shared their stories, wisdom, advice, and honesty. Irregardless wouldn’t be what it is without them, and this episode is a celebration of those voices.Whether you’ve been here since the beginning or you’re just tuning in, this is a great episode to get a feel for the show and the incredible guests who’ve joined us along the way.This episode pulls together our favorite mic-drop moments, unexpected tangents, and conversations that stuck with us.A rewind worth hitting play on.

In this episode of Irregardless, Shep sits down with Chris and Brent Jansky—the father-son duo leading T.J. Welding & Fabrication in Wharton, Texas. As President and Vice President, respectively, Chris and Brent represent the second and third generations of their family-run metal fabrication and welding business. Their story is one of legacy, resilience, and evolution in the metals industry.They take us back to the company’s origins, founded by Chris’s father and later passed down to him. After decades of hard work, Chris eventually handed the reins to Brent in the wake of Hurricane Harvey—a catastrophic event that not only devastated their shop but also much of their town. In the face of destruction, the Janskys share how loyal employees, strong community ties, and family leadership helped rebuild their operation from the ground up.Now at the helm, Brent reflects on honoring his family’s legacy while leading the company into the digital age. From adapting technology to staying true to old-school values, the conversation hits on powerful themes: generational transitions, digital transformation in metalworking, and how to balance tradition with innovation.It’s a must-listen for anyone in the steel or fabrication world—and for those who understand the grit it takes to build, rebuild, and grow a family business in today’s world.

In this episode of Irregardless, Shep sits down with Staci Thomas, Professor of Practice in Communications at Washington University’s Olin Business School, to dive into the rapidly evolving world of AI. With a rich background as a Mandarin translator in the U.S. Air Force and a lifelong passion for language and culture, Staci brings a unique and thoughtful perspective to the conversation.Together, Shep and Staci explore the power and potential of artificial intelligence—its real-world applications, its promise, its pitfalls, and what it means for the future of communication, education, and business. As the instructor of a course in Generative AI, Staci shares her first-hand experience of using AI in the classroom and how she’s preparing students to adapt and thrive in an increasingly tech-driven world.Whether you’re curious about where AI is headed or how to practically use it in your life and work, this episode offers a grounded, fascinating look at a topic that’s shaping our future.

In this episode of Irregardless, Shep sits down with Mike Wayte, Principal and Founder of Clinch Northwest, a Seattle-based manufacturer and supplier of self-clinching sheet metal fasteners. Mike shares his journey through the metals and fasteners industry, what inspired him to start Clinch NW, and how his hands-on experience helped shape the company’s direction.They dive into Clinch NW’s transition to digital, including their eCommerce site and what it takes to bring traditional manufacturing into the online space. Mike and Shep also unpack hot-button topics like tariffs, market volatility, and how global economic shifts are impacting American manufacturing.From there, the conversation expands to include artificial intelligence and automation, and how these technologies are transforming the way companies like Clinch NW operate. The episode wraps with a look at Bryzos and how the platform is helping solve real problems in the metals industry.

In this laugh-out-loud episode of Irregardless, host Shep Hickey sits down with Allen Heggs, second-generation owner of Helcrist LLC, a family-run steel fabrication and erection company based in Philadelphia, PA. From residential and commercial builds to hotels, schools, and pharmaceutical projects, Helcrist’s legacy runs deep—and Allen is already preparing the next generation to carry it even further.But Allen’s journey didn’t start with beams and blueprints. He shares hilarious and heartfelt stories from his early entrepreneurial days—selling candy, DJing parties at just 14, and skipping the traditional college path to dive straight into the real world. His take on “failing fast” and finding your true path—whether that’s through steel, music, or raising kids—is both inspiring and genuinely funny.He and Shep also dive into how Bryzos fits into Allen’s workflow today, and reflect on what it takes to follow a dream—like when Shep first stepped out to build Bryzos from scratch. It’s a conversation about hustle, legacy, and having the guts to build something that matters.Expect big laughs, real talk about parenthood and unconventional paths, and a Garmin Body Battery story so ridiculous that Shep and Allen could barely keep it together—and asked ourselves, what happens when it does get to zero?

This week on Irregardless, Shep sits down with Eric Gilbert, CEO of ANOVA Furnishings — a St. Louis-based company known for crafting commercial-grade outdoor site furnishings like benches, tables, and receptacles. As a second-generation leader, Eric shares what it’s been like taking the reins from his father and steering the business into its next chapter.The two dive into everything from entrepreneurship at a young age to the power of teamwork, leadership, and evolving a legacy brand in a modern world. Eric reflects on what’s driving ANOVA forward, how he’s strengthened operations, and the importance of surrounding yourself with the right people. He also shares his perspective on emerging technologies like AI and the role they could play in the future of manufacturing.As a longtime supporter and early believer in Bryzos, Eric’s seen the journey up close — and it shows in the honesty and depth of this conversation. One highlight? Shep asks him the simple yet profound question: “What is a business?” — setting the stage for one of the most thoughtful exchanges we’ve had yet.

In this episode of Irregardless, Shep sits down with the one and only Joe Tierney—a Broadcast and I.T. Specialist who wears more hats than most people own. If you’ve seen our Cracking the Code mini-series, you’ve already seen Joe’s work. He was the quiet force behind the scene, helping to capture the Bryzos team with clarity, creativity, and authenticity. But this time, we’re flipping the script and bringing Joe in front of the lens to hear his story.Joe’s talents run deep. By day, he works in live sports broadcasting as a technical director, builds motion graphics and animations, manages Apple systems, and keeps data flowing. By night (and sometimes on tour), he’s a drummer, a hands-on car guy, and a dad. Joe also has a deep appreciation for mathematics, an evolving curiosity about A.I., and a uniquely thoughtful approach to problem-solving—something he and Shep explore in depth during this episode.Together, they talk about the intersection of creativity and technology, the challenges of juggling so many roles, and the ways Joe stays curious and adaptable in a fast-changing world. Most importantly, Joe shares his outside-in perspective on Bryzos—what makes the platform different, what stood out to him while working on Cracking the Code, and why he believes it’s solving real problems in an industry that’s long overdue for change.Whether you’re into sports, tech, music, or just love hearing how smart people think, this episode offers a refreshing and human take on the power of versatility and innovation.

From the bite suit to the welding mask—Jeff Hasty’s career path is anything but ordinary.Jeff was raised around welding and pipe fitting, following his dad's career from state to state. As one of the best welders Jeff’s ever known, his dad gave him an early look into the world he’d eventually return to. Initially, Jeff was pulled toward law enforcement after a Ride-Along sparked a new passion. He built a rewarding career as a police officer and K9 handler in California, suiting up in the bite suit and training alongside his four-legged partner.When life forced a pivot, Jeff returned to his industrial roots, moving to Illinois to work on power plants—where he stepped into his first leadership role as a superintendent. That experience eventually led him Gross Mechanical, where he now serves as COO of the largest pipe fabrication facility in the area. When he’s not leading teams at Gross Mechanical, Jeff puts his skills as a Certified Hypnotist to work—helping clients through hypnotherapy.Tune in for a conversation about pivots, leadership, and the unique life experiences that shape our industry.

Dennis Arrowood, a 28-year veteran of the metals industry and Sales Operations Specialist at Ryerson, joins Shep for a conversation that spans tanks, transitions, and technology. From his early days driving armored vehicles in the U.S. Army to nearly three decades in steel, Dennis brings a unique perspective on structure, discipline, and getting things done.Inside Ryerson, Dennis carved out a career by navigating both the contract and transactional sides of buying. He breaks down the key differences between the two and what it took to make the leap into sales—offering insight into how the metals industry operates behind the scenes.But it’s Bryzos that’s redefining how Dennis works today. What used to take him an hour or more now takes just minutes. For someone who knows the grind of manual ordering, the time saved is transformational. Dennis doesn’t hold back, saying Bryzos has truly “nailed it” when it comes to streamlining the buying process.Whether you’re in sales, operations, or just curious about how innovation is reshaping old-school industries, this one’s worth the listen.

In this episode of Irregardless, Shep sits down with Dr. Dave King, a leading orthopedic surgeon and sports medicine specialist, for a deep dive into the high-performance world of sports injuries and surgical innovation. From his days in med school to the intense realities of the OR, Dr. King shares how mental focus, teamwork, and technology collide when treating athletes on and off the field.They explore what it’s like to work with professional sports teams like the St. Louis Cardinals, the evolution of sports-related surgeries, and how robotics and AI are transforming both patient outcomes and the future of medicine. Dr. King also reflects on the contrasting experiences of studying at Emerson vs. WashU, and what it takes to stay sharp—whether you’re leading a surgery or jamming with your band, Manship.This one’s for the athletes, the tech nerds, and anyone who’s ever wondered what it takes to repair the human body under pressure.

In this special mini episode recorded live at the 2025 NASCC Steel Conference, we switch things up with a quick, on-the-ground conversation between Bryzos’ own Lee Letourneau and Garret Armstrong, Project Manager and Estimator at Metal Pros LLC in Wichita, KS—and an active Bryzos member.Garret shares his experience attending NASCC, including what sessions stood out, what he’s taking back to his team, and why the event is such a valuable space for professionals in the steel and metals world. He also talks about how he got started on Bryzos, how the platform has helped him secure more jobs, and what he’s most excited about in the upcoming version of the app—and how it’ll support both buyers and sellers alike.It’s a fast-paced, insightful snapshot from the floor of one of the industry’s biggest events. Whether you’re in metals, manufacturing, or just love hearing from people doing real work in the field, this episode’s for you.

This week on Irregardless, Shep Hickey sits down with Sean Bailey, Territory Sales Manager at Smokiez Edibles, for a conversation that spans from cannabis to the Chilean mountains. Sean gives us a behind-the-scenes look at Missouri’s evolving cannabis industry—how the shift from medicinal to recreational use reshaped his career and opened up new opportunities. But that’s just the beginning. Sean dives into his time with the National Outdoor Leadership School (NOLS), where he spent six months living off the land in Patagonia, Chile. From survival skills and leadership to the Leave-No-Trace philosophy, Sean shares what it really means to thrive in the wild—plus a few hilarious stories and the most intense challenge his group faced in the mountains. He also reflects on how returning home after such a life-changing experience shaped his worldview—and how his path as an Eagle Scout helped prepare him for it all. Tune in for a conversation full of grit, growth, and the kind of leadership that only comes from life off the beaten path.

In this episode of Irregardless, Shep sits down with industry insider Josh Weber, owner of Metal Transformations LLC in Wichita, KS. Josh’s journey into the metals world is anything but typical—starting out in cattle farming, he transitioned from life on the farm to becoming a skilled metal fabricator.They dive into his early days learning to weld, the favorite projects he’s worked on over the years, and how he took on the challenge of building his own steel-framed house on the river. Josh also shares his experience crafting Demolition Derby bumpers and the unexpected path that led him to Bryzos—where he found the spark that helped jumpstart his business.Tune in for an inside look at the grit, creativity, and problem-solving that define the world of metal fabrication.

In this episode of Irregardless, Bryzos COO, Lee Letourneau, sits down with Jeff Giles, Executive Vice President of Corporate Development at Core & Main, to dive into the journey of one of St. Louis’ industry leaders. Core & Main, a national distributor of water, wastewater, storm drainage, and fire protection products and services, went public in 2021 and has continued to expand through strategic mergers and acquisitions.Jeff shares insights into the company’s rapid growth, the challenges and successes of his role, and what the future holds for Core & Main. A major focus of the discussion? The crucial role that company culture plays in the success of M&A efforts and why Core & Main prioritizes maintaining a strong, unified team through every transition.Tune in for a deep dive into leadership, corporate growth, and the power of culture in a rapidly evolving industry.

In this episode, Shep is joined by Cory Bricker, President of Cass Pay, to explore the evolution of financial technology. We dive into the origins of Cass Information Systems, headquartered in St. Louis, and how Cass Pay is transforming payment solutions. Cory shares his journey within the company, insights into how Cass Pay works, and a deep dive into Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL)—its rise, benefits, and potential risks. Tune in for a compelling discussion on the ever-changing landscape of FinTech.

In this episode Shep sits down with Bob Gassoff to discuss his amazing journey from youth hockey to NCAA hockey championship with Michigan to NHL minors to Navy SEALs to distribution.

In this episode of Irregardless, Rachel sits down with Sarah Hickey to hear her powerful story of resilience, determination, and hope. Diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis at just 26, Sarah opens up about the challenges she faced navigating life with M.S. and the transformative stem cell treatment she underwent in 2022.Beyond her personal journey, Sarah shares her passion for helping others through her work as a physical therapist with Show Me Aquatics and Camp Independence. She reflects on the joy and inspiration she found working with kids with cerebral palsy in adaptive sports, and how those experiences shaped her perspective on healing and perseverance.From heartfelt advice to candid reflections, Sarah’s story is one of strength, hope, and the power of community. You won’t want to miss this inspiring conversation.

In this episode, Shep chats with Ron King, a recently retired accounting professor from Washington University and former professor to Shep during his time in the MBA program. Ron reflects on his decades in academia before sharing thrilling stories from his hiking and camping adventures across the U.S.They then dive into the world of startups, with Ron offering insights on entrepreneurship, financial challenges, and the unique dynamics of hiring in fast-paced environments.Tune in for a blend of wisdom, adventure, and practical advice from a seasoned educator and explorer.

Bob Solomon, founder and President of Software Platform Consulting Inc., sits down with Shep to discuss his beginnings at Stanford University where he completed his MBA, to his time spent working in the food industry supply chain and Ariba software company. They also dive into their shared insights on the future of Bryzos and the evolution of B2B marketplaces.

The first episode of Irregardless is here! Brad Gross, owner of Gross Mechanical, sits down with Shep to discuss getting into the business of power and process piping as a 3rd generation mechanical contractor, automation on the shop floor and in the office, as well as the future of AI in the construction and metals industries.