31: Barbie The Welder - Building Strength Through Sparks

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.