In this conversation, Russ and Rob discuss their collaboration and the importance of spreading the message about mental health in the construction industry.

Find Rob and the MYH Podcast here

https://www.instagram.com/myhpodcast?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

They also talk about the work of the Lighthouse Club, a charity that supports construction workers and their families with physical, financial, and mental well-being. They share their personal experiences with mental health and the challenges they have faced.

They emphasize the need for awareness, understanding, and support in the industry. The conversation explores the importance of addressing mental health and seeking support. It emphasizes the need to take responsibility for one's own well-being and to actively work towards improving it. The analogy of carrying emotional weight and the importance of talking as a way to put it down is discussed.

The conversation also touches on the fluidity of identity and the need to adapt and overcome challenges. The role of helpline services like Samaritans and Lighthouse in providing anonymous support is highlighted. In this final part of the conversation, Rob discusses the importance of setting boundaries and taking care of his own mental health. He shares personal experiences of breaking down during talks and the need to prioritize self-care. Russ also talks about the grief of losing his dog and the process of healing. The conversation highlights the importance of awareness, understanding triggers, and finding healthy ways to cope with emotions. Both Russ and Rob emphasise the significance of reaching out for help and support.

Thanks to our headline sponsors Zinsser

Guest merch - The Funky Peach

In this episode of The Talking Tradesman, Heather shares her inspiring journey from being a biology teacher to becoming a successful painter and decorator.

Find heather here -

https://www.instagram.com/she_paints_berkshire?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

She discusses her passion for decorating, the challenges of balancing work and family life, and the unexpected diagnosis of breast cancer.

Heather opens up about her experiences navigating the healthcare system, the emotional impact of her diagnosis, and her decision-making process regarding treatment options. Throughout the conversation, she emphasizes the importance of mental health, resilience, and finding fulfillment in one's career.

In this candid conversation, Heather shares her journey through a breast cancer diagnosis, surgery, and the emotional and physical challenges that accompany it. She discusses the impact of cancer on her identity, relationships, and mental health, while also addressing the societal stigma surrounding the disease. Heather emphasizes the importance of community support and the need for awareness, particularly among younger women. She also highlights her fundraising efforts for breast cancer research and support, encouraging others to join her in making a difference.

Donate here

https://www.justgiving.com/page/heather-isherwood-1724616941247?utm_medium=fundraising&utm_content=page%2Fheather-isherwood-1724616941247&utm_source=copyLink&utm_campaign=pfp-share

Thanks to our Headline sponsors Zinsser

Guest Merchandise - The Funky Peach

Nick Dunn, a former paratrooper, shares his experiences in the military and as a private security guard in anti-piracy operations.

Find Nick here -

https://www.instagram.com/nickjdunn86?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

He discusses the intense training and camaraderie in the parachute regiment, as well as the purpose and pride it gave him. Nick also talks about the challenges and dangers he faced during his tours in Afghanistan and Iraq. After leaving the military, he worked as a private security guard on ships in high-risk areas, deterring pirates and ensuring the safety of the crew. The conversation highlights the resilience and adaptability required in these roles. Nick Dunn served as an anti-piracy security guard on ships. He shares his experience of being falsely accused and imprisoned in India. Pirates would often target ships in the waters near Somalia, and Nick's job was to protect the crew and cargo from piracy. He recounts the tactics used by pirates, such as holding the crew hostage for ransom. Nick served in this role for a couple of years before the incident occurred. He explains how he and his team were arrested in India on charges of illegal entry and possession of illegal arms. The Indian media spread false information about them, painting them as terrorists and weapon smugglers.

Find Nicks book - "Surviving Hell" on Amazon

Nick describes the mental and physical torture he endured during his time in prison and the impact it had on him and his family. He also discusses the lack of support from the UK government and the prolonged legal proceedings. Eventually, their case was quashed, and they were released. Nick shares the devastating experience of being wrongfully imprisoned in India for four years. He recounts the frustration and anger of being falsely accused and the emotional toll it took on him and his family. Despite the injustice, Nick remained optimistic and fought for his freedom. He highlights the support he received from people around the world and the importance of staying strong in the face of adversity. Finally, he describes the moment of his release and the overwhelming sense of relief and gratitude. Nick reflects on his return to the UK after being wrongly imprisoned in India for four years. He describes the overwhelming emotions he felt upon landing and being reunited with his family. Nick discusses the challenges of readjusting to life in the UK and the support he received from his loved ones and the public. He also talks about writing his memoir, 'Surviving in Hell', and the impact his story has had on others. Nick shares his experiences with mental health and emphasises the importance of reaching out for help and never giving up.

Thanks to our sponsors -

Headline - Zinsser

Episode sponsors - Q1 Tapes

Guest Merch - The funky Peach