Episode 19 ~ Turning Metal into Art with Jen Phillips

Welcome to Episode 19 of the Ol' Boy Podcast! Today, we’re thrilled to have the incredibly talented and inspiring Jen Phillips, owner of Metal Monkey Designs, as our guest. Jen is a master metal sculptor and welder who has navigated an impressive career path filled with unique commissions, like crafting a fish replica for a friend's wedding and a chimpanzee sculpture set for sale soon. Jen takes us through her journey, from tackling the challenges of TIG welding to using basic tools like a welder and angle grinder, and how her persistence and passion opened up unexpected opportunities, including a commissioned project for 20th Century Studios.

Jen doesn't just create art; she uses her craft to support charitable causes, notably with her acclaimed doll sheep sculpture and headdress piece. We’ll dive deep into her experiences—balancing career and family, her innovative work in the male-dominated welding industry, and her thoughts on the value of the trades. Plus, she shares gripping stories, like delivering a custom-made alien artwork to Joe Rogan and participating in her first archery hunt. Jen also recommends some incredible potential guests for the podcast. Don’t miss this episode filled with inspiration, artistry, and a celebration of following one's passion.

Make sure to subscribe and check out past episodes on your favorite platforms. And follow Jen's incredible work on her website, Metal Monkey Design Co., and Instagram @officialjenphillips.

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Timestamps

00:00 Jen discusses her evolving career
05:45 Breaking stigma: work ethic over college degrees
09:03 Balancing work and personal life
10:52 Worked at fab shop
13:04 Fortunate to have family help on job
18:30 Struggled to balance career and caring for daughter
22:49 Success with wildlife art leads to connections
25:11 Suggest adding unique experiences for social following
27:18 Supporting war party ranch is rewarding and fulfilling
30:43 Meeting people from social media
33:18 Chad impressed by welding video
36:25 Mastering basics allows flexibility and experimentation
41:02 Crazy week cramming 120 hours into 5 days
43:11 Pursuing passion project led to unexpected opportunity
46:41 Credit given to mentors for archery hunting
50:50 Joe Rogan
55:20 Challenging tig welding improves skills and confidence
58:39 Impressed with your work and passion
59:37 Subscribe, turn on notifications, and revisit past episodes.