EP 190: “From Litigation to Fabrication” with Alisyn Palla

In this week’s episode, Beau Wigington sits down with metal artist and part-time attorney, Alisyn Palla of Meraki Metalworks. She takes us through her unconventional journey from a 16-year career in high-stakes business litigation to discovering her passion for welding and creative metalwork. Alisyn shares the story behind the name “Meraki,” a spin on the Greek word “Meraki,” which means doing something with your heart, soul, and full creative energy. She talks candidly about facing her initial fears of failure, the humble beginnings of her very first Harbor Freight welder, and how she slowly pivoted from the legal world to metal art—ultimately finding a new sense of fulfillment and a thriving creative business. Alisyn’s approach is deeply rooted in experimentation—what she affectionately calls “FAFO” (fool around and find out). She illustrates how that process has led to stunning, large-scale art pieces that beautify both public spaces and private galleries, while teaching her invaluable lessons about resilience and problem solving. Throughout the conversation, Alisyn highlights her investment in learning through hands-on workshops (like those hosted by Stephanie Hoffman, Sosa Metalworks, and Bailey Industrial) and the power of building relationships at events like Fabtech. She also reveals her passion for giving back: from speaking at local high schools and AWS chapters to empowering others—especially women—to explore the vast opportunities in welding and fabrication.  Memorable Quotes • “My worst day in the shop is still better than my best day as a litigation attorney.” • “Every project is literally a puzzle. You figure out the pieces, make them, and glue it all together.” • “There’s no such thing as failure—only lessons learned for the next project.” Resources & Mentions • Meraki Metalworks • Website: merakimetalworks.net • Instagram: @meraki.metal.works • Facebook & TikTok: meraki.metal.works • Workshops & Events • Underground Metal Works @underground_metal_works • Sosa Metalworks (Las Vegas) • Bailey Industrial’s Metal Shaping Workshop • Fabtech Conference (Networking & Industry Trends) • Book Recommendation: • The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron Connect with Alisyn • Instagram: @meraki.metal.works • Contact Form: merakimetalworks.net Thank You To Our Trusted Partners Upgrade your plasma cutter to a Thermacut EX-TRAFIRE - https://foxly.link/KnrZrx  Learn more about the Lincoln Electric Sprinter 180 Si - https://foxly.link/taIiwU  Connect with Beau Weld App @beaudidit Instagram @beaudiditwelding Email - ⁠⁠[email protected] Download the weld app today⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠linktr.ee/WeldDotCom⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠