The Wealthy Ironworker

40 Episodes
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By: The Wealthy Ironworker

I have been researching and writing for over 8 years at www.thewealthyironworker.com, sharing my unique perspective as a union ironworker on a wide variety of topics. For a lot of those years, I've heard numerous times, "You should start a podcast." So I did - and here it is. I discuss a lot of different topics - and I hope you will join The Wealthy Ironworker as I Explore Beyond The Veil of Composure.

Interview With a UPS Driver March 2026
Last Monday at 9:31 AM

A UPS driver joins the podcast (audio only for obvious reasons) to discuss some of the things he sees and experiences at work.

I am also extending an invitation to anyone who would like to be on the podcast. Please click this link to fill out the form: https://www.thewealthyironworker.com/contact/

Important bits of information about me:

The Wealthy Ironworker Union Made Merch (from my friends at Stars & Stripes): https://www.thewealthyironworker.com/merch/

Start and Stripes info: https://www.stars-stripes-promotional-products...


OSHA Inspections and Violations
03/23/2026

In this podcast episode, I take a look at an article in ISHN (Industrial Safety and Hygiene News) referencing a 42% reduction in OSHA willful violations.

The ISHN Article: https://digitaledition.ishn.com/march-2026/editorialcomments/?utm_medium=emailsend&utm_source=DG-ISHN-Industrial+Safety+%26+Hygiene+News&utm_content=BNPCD260312141_01&oly_enc_id=5511H8467678C0Z

Right to Work and Reduced Safety: https://oem.bmj.com/content/75/10/736.full

I am also extending an invitation to anyone who would like to be on the podcast. Please click this link to fill out...


Labor Force Problems Educational Stumbling Blocks & No Entry Level Jobs
03/16/2026

In this podcast episode, I discuss labor force problems that we have made for ourselves; namely, educational stumbling blocks and disappearing entry-level jobs.

I am also extending an invitation to anyone who would like to be on the podcast. Please click this link to fill out the form: https://www.thewealthyironworker.com/contact/

Important bits of information about me:

The Wealthy Ironworker Union Made Merch (from my friends at Stars & Stripes): https://www.thewealthyironworker.com/merch/

Start and Stripes info: https://www.stars-stripes-promotional-products.com/

You can follow me on...


Union Run Insurance - Interview with Mary Fogarty
03/08/2026

In this podcast episode, I have a fascinating interview with Mary Fogarty, from Solidaritus Health, who discusses union-run insurance.

I also extend the invitation to anyone who may want to be on the podcast. Please click this link to fill out the form: https://www.thewealthyironworker.com/contact/

Important bits of information about me:

The Wealthy Ironworker Union Made Merch (from my friends at Stars & Stripes): https://www.thewealthyironworker.com/merch/

Start and Stripes info: https://www.stars-stripes-promotional-products.com/

...


UPS Teamsters Update and Thoughts
03/03/2026

In this podcast episode, we take a look at what is happening with UPS and the Teamsters and offer some thoughts.

I referenced the following articles:

Supply Chain Dive: https://www.supplychaindive.com/news/ups-driver-buyouts-teamsters-lawsuit-denied/812784/

Reuters: https://www.reuters.com/legal/litigation/ups-can-offer-150000-buyouts-unionized-drivers-us-judge-rules-2026-02-23/

I also extended the invitation to anyone who may want to be on the podcast. Please click this link to fill out the form: https://www.thewealthyironworker.com/contact/

Important bits of information about me:

The Wealthy Ironworker Union Made Merch...


Socialism and Capitalism: The Psychology and Caveats with The Your Listener Podcast
02/23/2026

The Wealthy Ironworker Podcast, in collaboration with Your Listener Podcast, presents a nuanced, substantive, and educational podcast focused on Socialism vs. capitalism.

About John: "John Cuturilo is a counsellor, writer, and podcast host in Melbourne, Australia. He conducts therapy with a diverse range of clients and specialises in working with complex trauma and relational matters. His seeks to address shortcomings in common practice by being versatile, educative, empowering, and relatable, integrating humanity and lived experience with evidence-based methods. As a writer and host, he educates his audience about how psychology applies to their lives, encouraging them to...


Understanding the Teamster's UPS Lawsuit
02/15/2026

In this podcast episode, I take a look at what is going on with the Teamsters lawsuit against UPS.

In the episode, I mention a couple of different sources, and they are:

Teamsters Release: https://teamster.org/2026/02/teamsters-sue-ups-for-breach-of-national-contract/

Supply Chain Dive: https://www.supplychaindive.com/news/ups-driver-buyouts-2026-payment-amount-lawsuit-teamsters/811911/

Important bits of information about me:

The Wealthy Ironworker Union Made Merch (from my friends at Stars & Stripes): https://www.thewealthyironworker.com/merch/

Start and Stripes info: https://www.stars-stripes-promotional-products.com/

You can follow me on some...


The UAW, Volkswagen, and The American South
02/09/2026

In this episode, we take a look at the United Auto Workers (UAW), the recent Volkswagen election/negotiation, and the American South.

Much of the content came from this article on the website, which I reference frequently and you can find here:

https://www.thewealthyironworker.com/2024/05/02/the-positive-ripple-effects-of-the-uaw/

Important bits of information about me:

The Wealthy Ironworker Union Made Merch (from my friends at Stars & Stripes): https://www.thewealthyironworker.com/merch/

Start and Stripes info: https://www.stars-stripes-promotional-products.com/You can follow me on some platforms 👇

Website: https://www...


So, You're Interested in Joining the Trades
01/25/2026

So, you are thinking about joining the trades. You've heard they can make good money.

But that's all you know.

I take the time to discuss things in this video you need to know, but don't yet. If, after listening, you decide to pursue something else, I've saved time for you and others. If, however, after listening, you are still interested, find a registered apprenticeship program to get in.

Oh, and welcome 😏

Important bits of information about me:

The Wealthy Ironworker Union Made Merch (from my friends at Stars & Str...


Six tips for contractors to change the next 10 to 15 years
01/18/2026

In this podcast episode, I discuss 6 tips contractors can use to change not just their company's culture but also its direction. The next 10 to 15 years for construction contractors will allow us to see which ones survive and which ones thrive, depending on the steps they take today.

I encourage every industry professional to assess their organizations, take the time to research, and act accordingly.

And should you want/need some clarity, assistance, or advice, feel free to contact me. I will certainly help in any way I can.

<...


Discussing the proposed H2-C Visa for the Construction Industry
01/09/2026

The construction industry has had an age and experience gap for numerous years, and much of that is attributed to the actions (or inactions) of the industry itself. ANY attempt to "solve" this issue with a visa is NOT the answer; robust apprenticeships and intentional investment into the next generation is. I am adamantly opposed to ALL visas proposed for the construction industry.Here are the two articles I referenced in the podcast episode:Construction dive: https://www.constructiondive.com/news/bill-proposes-construction-visa-immigrant-employment/801832/Market place: https://www.marketplace.org/story/2025/06/06/labor-force-participation-dropped-in-may-jobs-report-shows Here are some important bits of information about me...


Financial Tips For The End of The Year with Ty Tornincasa
12/29/2025

For the second time, Ty Tornincasa joins me on the podcast to share some financial tips as we approach the end of the year.

Here's how you can get a hold of Ty (and some compliance info):

Ty Tornincasa

Financial Advisor

440 W. 84th. Dr.

Merrillville, IN 46410

219-277-0521

Ty@tyfinancialadvisors.com

www.tyfinancialadviosrs.com

Registered Representative offering securities through Cetera Financial Specialists LLC, member FINRA/SIPC. Advisory services are offered through Cetera Investment Advisers LLC. Cetera is under separate ownership from...


Four Books You Should Have in Your Library
12/17/2025

In this episode, I identify and discuss four books that I believe you should have in your library.

The first book, "Managing In The Next Society," written by Peter Drucker, has a lot of wisdom and helps you understand that there are others who question the economic narrative.

The second book, "23 Things They Don't Tell You About Capitalism," written by Ha-Joon Chang, is a phenomenal work that challenges numerous commonly held talking points - beginning with the truth that "there is no such thing as the free market." Once you understand that, your whole paradigm...


You Are More Than What You Do For a Living
12/11/2025

Far too many people - especially men - identify themselves with what they do for a living. Well, I am here to tell you that you are more than that - MUCH more.

Here are some important bits of information about me:

The Wealthy Ironworker Union Made Merch (from my friends at Stars & Stripes): https://www.thewealthyironworker.com/merch/

Start and Stripes info: https://www.stars-stripes-promotional-products.com/

You can follow me on some platforms 👇

Website: https://www.thewealthyironworker.com/

Red...


Interview with Noelle from Frank News
12/04/2025

Noelle from Frank News joins me as we discuss labor, generational differences, and the state of things in this podcast episode.

 Frank News can be found here: https://www.franknews.us/

Here are some important bits of information about me:

The Wealthy Ironworker Union Made Merch (from my friends at Stars & Stripes): https://www.thewealthyironworker.com/merch/

Start and Stripes info: https://www.stars-stripes-promotional-products.com/

You can follow me on some platforms 👇

Website: https://www.thewealthyironworker.com/

Reddit: https://www.reddit.com/user/thewealthyironworker/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thewealthyironworker

...


Guest Feature - Ty Tornincasa
11/20/2025

In the first of many episodes to come, I am joined by Ty Tornincasa, who tells us his story. Ty is a union ironworker from Ironworkers Local 1 in Chicago AND a licensed financial professional.

He helps others "Live for today. Plan for tomorrow. Plan for the unexpected."

Ty Tornincasa's contact information:

His website: www.tyfinancialadvisors.com

Email: ty@tyfinancialadvisors.com

Office: 219-277-0521

Here are some important bits of information about me:

The Wealthy Ironworker Union Made Merch (from my friends at Stars & Stripes): https://www.thewealthyironworker.com/merch/

Stars and Str...


Virginia, Right to Work, and Political Indifference
11/13/2025

Right to Work is on the books for numerous states - VA included. What's more, politicians seem to be pro Right to Work - Republicans and Democrats included.

Saying you are "pro-labor" while standing behind this piece of propaganda is double talk; saying one thing but doing another. It's time we demand more from those who say they value labor - and I'm tired of being told otherwise.

Here is the link to the article referenced: https://www.virginiascope.com/spanberger-splits-the-middle-on-right-to-work-opposes-full-repeal/

Here are some important bits of...


Let's Talk About Gatekeeping
11/11/2025

Let's talk about gatekeeping. More specifically, I would like to discuss how gatekeeping has evolved with the advent of the internet.

Here are some important bits of information about me:

Union Made Merch (from my friends at Stars & Stripes): https://www.thewealthyironworker.com/merch/

Stars and Stripes info: https://www.stars-stripes-promotional-products.com/promotional-products-store/Apparel-c145422799

You can follow me on some platforms 👇

Website: https://www.thewealthyironworker.com/

Reddit: https://www.reddit.com/user/thewealthyironworker/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thewealthyironworker

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com...


Let's Talk About Gatekeeping
11/07/2025

Let's talk about gatekeeping. More specifically, I would like to discuss how gatekeeping has evolved with the advent of the internet.

Here are some important bits of information about me:

Union Made Merch (from my friends at Stars & Stripes): https://www.thewealthyironworker.com/...Start and Stripes info: https://www.stars-stripes-promotional...

You can follow me on some platforms 👇

Website: https://www.thewealthyironworker.com/

Reddit: https://www.reddit.com/user/thewealthyironworker/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thewealthyironworker

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewealthyironworker/

Twitter/X: htt...


Kicking The Podcast Off Again After A Year
10/30/2025

I took a year off from the podcast - and in this video, I tell you why.

I also talk about some of the things I have planned now that I am behind the microphone once more.

Here are some important bits of information about me:Union Made Merch (from my friends at Stars & Stripes): https://www.thewealthyironworker.com/...Start and Stripes info: https://www.stars-stripes-promotional...

You can follow me on some platforms 👇

Website: https://www.thewealthyironworker.com/

Reddit: https://www.reddit.com/user/thewealthyironworker/

Facebook: https://www...


Episode Feature: Timothy James The Real Boston Cowboy
12/29/2024

I had the chance to sit down and have a conversation with Timothy James, The Real Boston Cowboy - and I'm glad that I did. From union ironworker (out of local 7, Boston, MA) to country music artist, he tells us his story and why he loves what he does.

You can find him from some of these below:

Website: https://therealbostoncowboy.com/home

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/timothyjamesmusic1/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w3vxILZ3Qnw

Twitter/X: https://x.com/RelBostonCowboy

...


Five Tips For Success In The Skilled Trades
11/05/2024

In this short episode, I take a look at 5 tips that, as you begin your career, will help you go far.

Union Made Merch (from my friends at Stars & Stripes): https://www.thewealthyironworker.com/...

Start and Stripes info: https://www.stars-stripes-promotional...

You can follow me on some platforms 👇

Website: https://www.thewealthyironworker.com/

Reddit: / thewealthyironworker

LinkedIn: / the-wealthy-ironworker-292487200

Facebook: / thewealthyironworker


Understanding the difference between union and non-union pay/benefit structure
10/21/2024

Have you ever wondered what the difference between union and non-union workers and their pay/benefit structure is? Perhaps you've heard a union worker say their "Benefits are on top of the check" and thought, what does that mean? In this podcast episode, we explore the existing structure and their differences.

Union Made Merch (from my friends at Stars & Stripes): https://www.thewealthyironworker.com/...

Start and Stripes info: https://www.stars-stripes-promotional...

You can follow me on some platforms 👇

Website: https://www.thewealthyironworker.com/

Reddit: / thewealthyironworker

LinkedIn: / the-wealthy-ironworker-292487200

<...


Apprentice Spotlight Series Episode 5: Ironworker Sam Rodriguez
10/08/2024

At The Wealthy Ironworker Podcast, we understand how important apprentices are - and will be in the future - which is why we like to highlight them. In this episode, Sam Rodriguez joins the podcast as a guest in the Apprentice Spotlight Series and tells us his story.

Union Made Merch (from my friends at Stars & Stripes): https://www.thewealthyironworker.com/...

Start and Stripes info: https://www.stars-stripes-promotional...

You can follow me on some platforms 👇

Website: https://www.thewealthyironworker.com/

Reddit: / thewealthyironworker

LinkedIn: / the-wealthy-ironworker-292487200

Facebook: / the...


The Principle of Micro Decisions
09/30/2024

The Principle of Microe Decisions tells us that it isn't our biggest opportunities that are the most valuable - it's the intentionality we should be working out each and every day that is the most valuable.

Union Made Merch (from my friends at Stars & Stripes): https://www.thewealthyironworker.com/...

Start and Stripes info: https://www.stars-stripes-promotional...

You can follow me on some platforms 👇

Website: https://www.thewealthyironworker.com/

Reddit: / thewealthyironworker

LinkedIn: / the-wealthy-ironworker-292487200

Facebook: / thewealthyironworker


Who Pays for PPE (Personal Protective Equipment)?
09/23/2024

In this episode, we focus on who is responsible for paying for personal protective equipment on the job and how important it is for you to know where we are.

Union Made Merch (from my friends at Stars & Stripes): https://www.thewealthyironworker.com/...

Start and Stripes info: https://www.stars-stripes-promotional...

You can follow me on some platforms 👇

Website: https://www.thewealthyironworker.com/

Reddit: / thewealthyironworker

LinkedIn: / the-wealthy-ironworker-292487200

Facebook: / thewealthyironworker


Handling Disagreements
09/16/2024

Have you ever thought about how you handle disagreements? There are plenty of examples of ruined friendships and even family relationships over petty disagreements that were not worth the argument. In this episode, we discuss some guardrails, tips, and whatnot to remember when a disagreement arises.

#podcast #disagreement #responsibility

Union Made Merch (from my friends at Stars & Stripes): https://www.thewealthyironworker.com/...

Start and Stripes info: https://www.stars-stripes-promotional...

You can follow me on some platforms 👇

Website: https://www.thewealthyironworker.com/

Reddit: / thewealthyironworker

LinkedIn: / the-wealthy-ironworker-292487200

<...


The Representation Gap
09/09/2024

Have you ever heard the term "representation gap?" We explore this, its meaning, and why it's important in this podcast episode.

#podcast #union #work

Union Made Merch (from my friends at Stars & Stripes): https://www.thewealthyironworker.com/...

Start and Stripes info: https://www.stars-stripes-promotional...

You can follow me on some platforms 👇

Website: https://www.thewealthyironworker.com/

Reddit: / thewealthyironworker

LinkedIn: / the-wealthy-ironworker-292487200

Facebook: / thewealthyironworker


Lies We Tell Young People Episode 3
09/01/2024

Episode 3 of Lies We Tell Young People.

In this episode, we continue the mini-series where we explore more lies that we tell young people.

Union Made Merch (from my friends at Stars & Stripes): https://www.thewealthyironworker.com/...

Start and Stripes info: https://www.stars-stripes-promotional...

You can follow me on some platforms 👇

Website: https://www.thewealthyironworker.com/

Reddit: / thewealthyironworker

LinkedIn: / the-wealthy-ironworker-292487200

Facebook: / thewealthyironworker


Middle Class Vs Working Class
08/25/2024

Ever wondered what exactly IS the middle class - and who is a part of it? Did you know "working class" is also a thing? We discuss these and why they matter in this podcast episode.

#podcast #middleclass #workingclass #work

Middle and working class definitions: https://www.thestreet.com/personal-finance/working-class-vs-middle-class-14881073#:~:text=Assis%20via%20Unsplash-,What%20qualifies%20as%20working%20or%20middle%20class%20varies%20from%20region,Homer%20Simpson%20is%20working%20class.

Pew Research Center Calculator: https://www.pewresearch.org/fact-tank/2020/07/23/are-you-in-the-american-middle-class/

Union and middle class decline chart: https://www.americanprogressaction.org/article...


What is a union
08/18/2024

In this podcast episode, I take the time to answer the question, "What is a union?" You'll also see some examples of unions along with why they are necessary today.

#podcast #union

Union Made Merch (from my friends at Stars & Stripes): https://www.thewealthyironworker.com/...

Start and Stripes info: https://www.stars-stripes-promotional...

You can follow me on some platforms 👇

Website: https://www.thewealthyironworker.com/

Reddit: / thewealthyironworker

LinkedIn: / the-wealthy-ironworker-292487200

Facebook: / thewealthyironworker


Giving Notice At Work - Past, Present, and Future
08/11/2024

In this podcast episode, I explore the history of the conventional "two-week notice," other variations of notices to leave an employer, and what the future might look like with increased employer investment in their employees.

#podcast #work

Union Made Merch (from my friends at Stars & Stripes):

https://www.thewealthyironworker.com/... Start and Stripes info:

https://www.stars-stripes-promotional... You can follow me on some platforms

👇 Website: https://www.thewealthyironworker.com/

Reddit: / thewealthyironworker

LinkedIn: / the-wealthy-ironworker-292487200

Facebook: / thewealthyironworker


Apprentice Spotlight Series Episode 4: Emily Mutchler
08/04/2024

I had an excellent conversation with UA (United Association - Pipefitter) and 3rd-year apprentice Emily Mutchler, and she told us her story. Union Made Merch (from my friends at Stars & Stripes): https://www.thewealthyironworker.com/...Start and Stripes info: https://www.stars-stripes-promotional-products.com/ You can follow me on some platforms 👇Website: https://www.thewealthyironworker.com/Reddit: / thewealthyironworker LinkedIn: / the-wealthy-ironworker-292487200 Facebook: / thewealthyironworker


Common Misconceptions About Unions Part 3
07/28/2024

We continue exploring common misconceptions about unions with part 3 in this series.


Common Misconceptions About Unions Part 2
07/21/2024

Continuing this mini-series, this episode explores more misconceptions people have about unions.

Union Made Merch: https://www.thewealthyironworker.com/merch/

You can follow me on some platforms 👇

Website: https://www.thewealthyironworker.com/

Reddit: https://www.reddit.com/user/thewealthyironworker/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/the-wealthy-ironworker-292487200/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thewealthyironworker


Common Misconceptions About Unions Part 1
07/14/2024

There are a lot of misconceptions about unions, and after 22 years, I've heard many of them.

This episode is the first of a multi-episode series where I explore those misconceptions and address them head-on

Join me as I kick off this series.


Do You Ask Questions?
07/07/2024

Have you ever been around someone who has asked a lot of questions and wondered why?

Have you ever really thought about the power of questions?

In this episode, we discuss why most people don't ask questions, the benefits of asking questions, and some scenarios where - if we asked more questions - we'd save ourselves a lot of trouble.


Apprentice Spotlight Series Episode 3: Jermaine Marshall
07/01/2024

Have you ever wondered what it's like to be in the skilled trades? What it's like to be an apprentice? What opportunities are out there for you?

Apprentice Jermain Marshall sits down on The Wealthy Ironworker and tells us his story.


Generational Warfare
06/23/2024

In this episode, I talk about the generational warfare and how it's breaking down the social compact.

Younger people get judged a lot, but older folks have enormous responsibility in what's going on.


What is Wealth?
06/16/2024

Have you ever stopped and wondered what wealth actually is?

Most of us believe it's money - but is that all? Is there more to wealth - REAL wealth - that enriches our lives to a greater degree?

I believe there is. In this episode, I explore other forms of wealth that many never even truly consider, many which we sacrifice on the altar of pursuing money.