In this conversation, Russ and Kris discuss various topics related to mental health and personal experiences.

Find Kris here -

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

Also search "foxy.the.decorator" on TIK TOK

They touch on themes such as family dynamics, tragedy, attention-seeking behavior, and the importance of empathy and understanding. They also explore the challenges faced by men in opening up about their emotions and the stigma surrounding mental health in the construction industry.

The conversation highlights the need for better support and resources for mental health and the impact of societal attitudes on individuals. The conversation covers various topics including mental health, government funding, community support, personal experiences, and neurodiversity. Russ and Kris discuss the lack of training and funding in mental health services, the importance of community support, and the need for individuals to take responsibility in creating change.

They also touch on Kris's personal experiences with ADHD and the challenges and strengths that come with it. The conversation highlights the importance of recognizing and embracing neurodiversity and finding purpose in helping others. In this final part of the conversation, Kris and Russ discuss Kris's journey in social media and working with celebrities.

They also touch on the misconceptions about decorators and the importance of being genuine on social media. Kris emphasizes the need to focus on passion and hard work rather than money, and how he balances his decorating business with social media. They also discuss the power of social media in challenging mainstream media narratives and the value of being oneself.

In this conversation, Russ and Dan discuss Dan's businesses, Baldilocks and RSP Fire Sprinkler Systems, and the importance of fire safety in Wales.

Find Dan & Balidilocks here

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

They also touch on the skills shortage in the construction industry and the need for diversity and inclusivity. They highlight the significance of providing adequate physical and mental health care in the workplace and the benefits it brings to productivity and employee well-being. The conversation emphasises the importance of creating a supportive and nurturing work environment.

The conversation explores the importance of creating a safe space for employees to discuss mental health issues and the responsibility of employers to support their employees. It emphasises the need for leaders to be self-aware and empathetic, and highlights the impact of personal experiences on one's ability to understand and support others.

The talk also touches on the normalisation of talking about suicide and the need for mental health training for managers. The guests share personal stories of their own struggles and the role of mentors in their lives. The importance of creating a safe space for people to talk and listen is highlighted. The act of listening without offering advice is seen as a valuable skill. It is emphasized that sometimes people just need a safe space to express their feelings and be heard.

The concept of offloading emotional weight through talking is discussed, with the analogy of putting down a weight temporarily. The idea of using physical activities like drumming and exercise as a form of therapy is explored. The impact of trauma and grief, including inherited trauma, is acknowledged. The role of positive male role models in healing and growth is emphasised.

Dan discusses the practical impact of alopecia, such as the loss of eyebrows and eyelashes, and the importance of understanding the condition. He highlights the psychological and emotional challenges faced by individuals with alopecia, as well as the need for more support and attention. Dan shares his personal journey with alopecia and how it led him to create the Baldilocks movement, which aims to provide a safe and welcoming space for people with hair loss. He discusses the various initiatives under the Baldilocks brand, including spa days and coaching services, and emphasises the importance of monetising the movement to sustain its impact.

Stay tuned at the end of the episode for a short video from Dan on what Balidilocks has to offer

In this conversation, Russ and Jay discuss their experiences as painters and decorators. Jay shares how he transitioned from aspiring professional golfer to painter and decorator.

Find Jay here

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

They talk about the challenges of managing customer expectations, the importance of social media in the industry, and the value of craftsmanship. They also touch on the topic of pricing and the different levels of quality in the trade. The conversation in this part revolves around the challenges of pricing and dealing with non-paying customers in the painting and decorating trade.

Jay shares his experiences of pricing jobs based on the unique requirements of each project and the difficulties of estimating the time and effort required. He also discusses the anxiety and self-doubt that can arise when dealing with customers and the impact of non-payment on mental health. Jay shares a personal story of a non-paying customer during a difficult time in his life and the legal battle that ensued.

The conversation also touches on the evolving expectations of customers and the need for tradespeople to adapt and set clear boundaries. In this conversation, Russ and Jay discuss the challenges and emotional journey of dealing with a difficult pregnancy and the impact it had on Jay's mental health.

They touch on themes such as the fear and uncertainty of a potential health issue with his child, the pressure of running a business while going through personal struggles, and the importance of reaching out for support. They also discuss the stigma around men's mental health and the need for open and honest conversations. Overall, the conversation highlights the importance of talking about and seeking help for mental health issues.

Reiss from Solihull Tiling Specialists joins Russ in the studio to talk about the value of trust and reputation in the industry, as well as the importance of understanding the business side of running a trade business.

Find Reiss here

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

Reiss shares his experiences growing up in Birmingham and being exposed to the trades industry through his father and stepfather he reflects on his childhood growing up in a pub and the impact it had on his life.

He discusses the chaos and the lifestyle that came with it, as well as the contrasting roles of his parents. He shares how his dad was the sensible one who wanted him to stay on the right path, while his mom was the drinker.

Reiss also talks about the importance of open communication and emotional intelligence, which he learned from his dad. He emphasises the value of conversation and the power it has to unravel and organize one's thoughts and feelings. In this part of the conversation, Russ and Reiss discuss the challenges of finding balance in life and business.

Reiss shares his struggle with maintaining balance and his all-or-nothing personality. He talks about his experience in therapy and how he has tried to work on achieving better balance. They also discuss the pressure and decision-making involved in scaling a business and the impact it has on personal life. Reiss reflects on his desire for success and the importance of defining success based on personal values.

They also touch on Reiss's experience working with high-profile clients and the trust and relationships involved in those projects. In this final part of the conversation, Russ and Reese discuss the challenges of being asked to work for free and the perception of different levels of expertise in the trades industry. They also share their experiences of dealing with problems and failures in their businesses, emphasizing the importance of learning from these experiences. They conclude by sharing where listeners can find Reiss's business online.

**Trigger Warning**

Episode contains discussion of physical abuse, Racism, suicide and addictions

Tom shares his childhood experiences growing up in Essex, highlighting the traumatic events and the impact they had on him.

You can find Tom here

https://www.instagram.com/1tom2harrison92?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

He discusses his relationship with his father, who had a difficult upbringing and struggled with anger and aggression. Tom talks about his involvement in drug dealing and his own drug use, as well as his career as a professional fighter. He also mentions the challenges his mother faced as a single parent and the repossession of their home.

Throughout his story, Tom emphasises the need for help and support for young men who have experienced similar struggles. Tom shares his experiences of struggling with addiction and mental health issues, including psychosis and suicidal thoughts. He recounts a traumatic incident where he woke up in a Croatian family's house after going missing for four days.

Tom discusses the traumatic day where his mother took her own life

Tom's journey to recovery began when his partner took him to a 12-step fellowship meeting. He emphasizes the importance of addressing the underlying causes of addiction and seeking therapy in addition to attending meetings. Tom also discusses the need for a safe environment and the challenges of rebuilding trust with loved ones. In this final part of the conversation, Tom and Russ discuss the importance of support from others in recovery, the ongoing journey of healing, and the challenges of relationships and self-worth. They also touch on the impact of social media and the need for open communication and understanding in relationships.

Tom shares his experience of standing up to insensitive comments about suicide and emphasises the importance of being aware of one's surroundings and the power of words. The conversation ends with a discussion about the potential for Tom to use his story to inspire and help others

Big Thanks to our episode sponsors

Brewers decorating Centres

www.brewers.co.uk

Creative Branding Workwear

www.creativebrandingworkwear.com

In this episode, Will from Blackburn Professional Decorators joins the podcast to share his story and journey.

Find Will Here

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

He discusses his experience with ADHD and the challenges he faced in school. Will explains the science behind ADHD and the importance of early diagnosis and treatment.

He also touches on the impact of social media and modern life on attention spans. The conversation highlights the need for a more inclusive education system and acceptance of neurodiversity.

Will reflects on a traumatic incident at a festival where he injured someone and the aftermath that followed. He shares his experience of being confronted by security and the police, being taken into custody, and the impact it had on his mental health.

Russ discusses the importance of understanding the difference between mental health and mental illness, and how he has learned to appreciate life and focus on the positive aspects. The conversation explores the importance of gratitude and taking care of one's physical and mental health. It highlights the fact that we are living in the best time in history and have access to modern amenities that were unimaginable in the past.

The discussion also delves into the impact of diet on mental health, emphasising the need to prioritise whole, unprocessed foods and avoid ultra-processed foods. The conversation concludes with a reflection on the convenience-driven culture and the importance of supporting local farmers and businesses.

In this final part of the conversation, Will and Russ discuss the societal changes that have led to a fast-paced and convenience-driven lifestyle. They reflect on the loss of community and the importance of slowing down and enjoying life. Will shares his personal journey towards a healthier lifestyle and emphasizes the need for self-discipline and self-care. They also touch on the benefits of exercise and the impact of technology on our well-being. The conversation concludes with a reminder to find blessings in every situation and the power of serving others.

A big thank you to our episode sponsors -

Brewers Decorating Centres

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

Two Fussy Blokes

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

HB42

https://www.instagram.com/hb42_ultimate?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

Creative Branding Workwear

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

**Trigger warning**

Episode contains talk of suicide and violence and drug use

In this episode of the Talking Tradesman, Carl Crowley, a gas engineer turned motivational therapist, life coach, and councillor, shares his personal journey of overcoming trauma and transforming his life.

Find Carl here

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

The conversation covers topics such as childhood trauma, the importance of forgiveness, the impact of societal expectations on men's mental health, and the need for support and coping mechanisms in the trades industry. Carl emphasizes the importance of self-care, including practices like cold water therapy and running, and encourages men to seek help and surround themselves with a supportive network.

The conversation explores the problem of men's mental health and the importance of communication and self-awareness. It delves into the concept of ego and how it can hinder relationships.

The discussion also touches on the impact of trauma and the need to take responsibility for one's actions. The conversation highlights the importance of prioritizing self-care and being the best version of oneself for the sake of one's children. It also addresses the issue of extreme opinions dominating public discourse and the need for open conversation and debate. In this final part of the conversation, Russ and Carl discuss the importance of parenting and setting boundaries for children.

They share personal stories and examples of how they teach their own children about respect and discipline. They also touch on the topics of personal growth, self-care, and the power of the mind. Carl emphasizes the importance of investing in oneself and acquiring knowledge and wisdom. They also discuss the issue of van theft and the need to stop buying stolen tools. Carl shares his own experience of being attacked and highlights the importance of personal safety.

In this episode, Russ interviews Darren from Cleaner Carpets.

Find Darren here -

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

They discuss Darren's experience as a carpet and upholstery cleaner. The conversation then shifts to their childhood experiences and Darren's time living in Singapore. They discuss the differences in culture and schooling between Singapore and the UK. They also share stories about their early jobs and the challenges faced.

Darren talks about his experience working night shifts at the airport and cleaning the baggage system. He shares stories of finding various items in the reclaim area. He also discusses his transition from working at the airport to starting his own carpet cleaning business during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The conversation in this section revolves around the experiences and challenges faced by Darren, a carpet cleaner, and Russ, a painter and decorator. They discuss the importance of social media presence and how it can convert into business opportunities. They also share stories of unusual and challenging jobs they have encountered, including cleaning up after home births and crime scenes.

They touch on the topic of working with celebrities and the realities of nonverbal autism, which Darren's son has. In this final part of the conversation, Darren shares his experiences as a father of a nonverbal autistic child and the challenges he faces. He talks about the triggers and difficulties he encounters in everyday situations, such as going to restaurants or witnessing other children interacting with their parents. Darren also discusses the lifelong nature of nonverbal autism and the small wins and moments of connection he cherishes with his son. He emphasizes the importance of listening and understanding in supporting individuals with autism and highlights the need for more awareness and support for families in similar situations.

Thanks to our Episode sponsors

Brewers Decorators Centres

www.Brewers.co.uk

Creative Branding Workwear

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