Welding, Faith, and Finding Purpose – A Life Rebuilt with Andy Bachert

Explicit content warning

10/29/24 • 71 min

When you build a life with your hands, it’s hard to imagine letting go—but for Andy Bachert, letting go is exactly what led him to a purpose-filled life.

In this powerful and vulnerable episode, Andy shares how he went from a 30-year career in steel fabrication to becoming the COO of a global faith-based mission organization. What started as a volunteer trip to Africa turned into a life-changing pivot—and not one he saw coming.

In this conversation, we explore:

What it’s really like to do construction and welding work in remote countries
The emotional moment when Andy got laid off... and why it became the greatest gift
How his wife secretly prayed for their life to change—and what happened when it did
The moment of clarity under the stars in West Africa
Training locals and passing on skills across language and culture barriers
Why purpose and faith matter more than titles or income
What it's like working alongside your spouse (and keeping work at the office!)
How Andy uses leadership, humility, and coaching to stay grounded

This is one of those conversations that hits you in the heart—and reminds you that careers, skills, and even setbacks can be vehicles for a bigger purpose.

📍 Learn more about Andy’s mission work: Friends in Action International
📲 Follow Andy on LinkedIn for more insight and updates

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Andy Bachert and His Journey
03:06 Transition from Steel Fabrication to Nonprofit Work
05:53 Experiences in Africa: A Life-Changing Journey
08:59 The Impact of Faith and Family on Career Choices
12:07 Balancing Executive Responsibilities with Hands-On Work
15:06 Training and Empowering Local Labor
18:02 The Importance of Mentorship and Coaching
20:57 Lessons Learned from Traveling and Working Abroad
23:56 Legacy and the Next Generation
26:52 Building Relationships Through Work
29:47 The Role of Purpose in Work and Life
32:59 Final Thoughts and Opportunities with Friends in Action

When you build a life with your hands, it’s hard to imagine letting go—but for Andy Bachert, letting go is exactly what led him to a purpose-filled life.

In this conversation, we explore:

What it’s really like to do construction and welding work in remote countries
The emotional moment when Andy got laid off... and why it became the greatest gift
How his wife secretly prayed for their life to change—and what happened when it did
The moment of clarity under the stars in West Africa
Training locals and passing on skills across language and culture barriers
Why purpose and faith matter more than titles or income
What it's like working alongside your spouse (and keeping work at the office!)
How Andy uses leadership, humility, and coaching to stay grounded

This is one of those conversations that hits you in the heart—and reminds you that careers, skills, and even setbacks can be vehicles for a bigger purpose.

📍 Learn more about Andy’s mission work: Friends in Action International
📲 Follow Andy on LinkedIn for more insight and updates

Previous Episode

What do Senior Marketing Specialists Do

In this conversation, Seth Hower, a senior marketing strategist at Synapse Marketing Solutions, shares insights into his role, the importance of building relationships in marketing, and the balance between data analysis and creativity. He discusses overcoming challenges in marketing strategy, the significance of a growth mindset, and the role of empathy in leadership. Seth emphasizes the value of authenticity, personal accountability, and the impact of mental health awareness. He also reflects on lessons learned from coaching and the importance of communication in teams, concluding with thoughts on servant leadership and personal development.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Seth Hauer and His Role
02:56 Building Relationships in Marketing
05:48 Balancing Data and Creativity in Marketing
08:59 Overcoming Challenges in Marketing Strategy
11:59 The Importance of a Growth Mindset
15:01 Navigating Leadership and Accountability
18:02 The Role of Empathy in Leadership
21:01 Lessons from Coaching and Mentorship
24:03 Authenticity in Personal and Professional Life
27:01 The Impact of Mental Health Awareness
29:58 Daily Routines for Personal Growth
33:09 Eureka Moments in Personal Development
35:57 The Value of Servant Leadership
39:10 Finding Your Voice in the Workplace
41:58 The Importance of Communication in Teams
45:00 Personal Accountability and Self-Reflection
47:55 Lessons from Camp Counseling
51:01 Final Thoughts and Future Aspirations

Next Episode

How to Find the Right Trade for You

Summary
In this episode, Brandon Stanchock speaks with Miranda Martz and Crystal Huesman from the Manufacturing Association about their roles in promoting skilled trades and manufacturing careers. They discuss the importance of community engagement, changing perceptions of manufacturing, and the need for work-life balance and supportive company cultures. The conversation highlights the significance of education and mentorship in shaping the future workforce, as well as the challenges and rewards of teaching in the trades. In this conversation, Miranda and Brandon discuss the increasing representation of women in manufacturing, the evolution of technology in the industry, and the personal growth that comes from adventurous experiences like skydiving. They emphasize the importance of empowering students to explore trades and manufacturing careers, while also sharing insights on collaboration and the strengths and weaknesses of their partnership. In this engaging conversation, Miranda and Brandon explore a variety of lighthearted topics before delving into their passion for education and the importance of social media in building personal brands. They discuss the significance of community engagement in the manufacturing sector and the various opportunities available for individuals interested in joining the field. The conversation highlights the enthusiasm and dedication of those involved in education and training, emphasizing that these opportunities are accessible to everyone.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to the Manufacturing Association and Its Mission
03:05 Roles and Responsibilities in the Manufacturing Association
06:00 Community Engagement and Support for Students
09:10 Changing Perceptions of Manufacturing Careers
12:04 The Importance of Work-Life Balance and Company Culture
15:06 The Role of Education and Training in Manufacturing
17:57 Generational Perspectives on Work and Skills
20:58 The Value of Mentorship and Real-World Experience
24:01 Conclusion and Future Directions for Manufacturing Education
31:34 Empowering Women in Manufacturing
35:20 The Evolution of Technology in Manufacturing
41:18 Skydiving Adventures and Personal Growth
50:55 Advice for Students in Trades and Manufacturing
54:51 Strengths and Weaknesses in Collaboration
59:50 Fun and Games: Lighthearted Choices
01:01:59 Passion for Learning and Teaching
01:04:59 The Importance of Education in Manufacturing
01:09:05 Social Media and Personal Branding
01:12:55 Building Community and Engagement
01:19:00 Promoting Events and Opportunities