In this episode, host Beau Wigington chats with John Malecki, former NFL player turned successful YouTube creator and entrepreneur in the maker space. John shares his unexpected journey from professional football to building custom furniture and creating engaging content on YouTube. He provides valuable insights on overcoming perfectionism, implementing metalwork into woodworking projects, and growing a successful brand online.

Key Topics Covered:

• Transitioning from professional sports to woodworking and content creation

• Tips for makers to effectively incorporate metalwork into their projects

• Essential advice for aspiring YouTubers and content creators

• The importance of storytelling and audience engagement over perfectionism

• John's favorite projects, including building smokers and custom furniture

• Development of his successful brand, Shop Shades

Memorable Quotes:

• “I didn’t quit football to become a maker. I'm a maker out of necessity.”

• “If you want to win on YouTube, stop making content for you and start making it for your audience.”

• “We need more people with their hands on welders and their hands on tools—we're in dying trades.”

Resources Mentioned:

• SmokerBuilder.com: Kits and resources for building smokers (SmokerBuilder.com)

• Shop Shades: Stylish and comfortable safety glasses (johnmalecki.com)

• Creator Playbook: John's mentorship program for content creators (johnmalecki.com)

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Check out all of John Malecki’s Content

• Website - johnmalecki.com

• Build YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@John_Malecki 

• Unscrewed YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@JohnMaleckiUnscrewed 

• Instagram - @john_malecki - https://www.instagram.com/john_malecki/ 

Connect with Beau Wigington

• Instagram: @beaudiditwelding https://www.instagram.com/beaudiditwelding/ 

• Email: beauw@weld.com

• WELD App: @beaudidit

Download the WELD App:

• https://foxly.link/Qj0VEa