Hard Hats and Head Space with Stuart Wallis

SummaryIn this solo podcast episode, Stuart discusses theimportance of mental health awareness, particularly in the context of suicide prevention. He shares his personal journey with mental health challenges, including his diagnoses of ADHD and anxiety, and emphasizes the role of workplace support in recovery. Stuart highlights various initiatives aimed at improving mental health in the construction industry, including the Adam Taylor Project, which seeks to create safe spaces for conversations about mental health. He advocates for empowering employees to support one another andstresses the importance of community involvement and self-care in addressing mental health issues.TakeawaysMental health is a universal issue that affects everyone.Changing the narrative around mental health can help reducestigma.Workplace support is crucial for mental health recovery.Personal experiences can foster stronger connections withothers.Initiatives like the Adam Taylor Project can make asignificant impact.Creating safe spaces for conversations about mental healthis essential.Empowering employees leads to better mental health outcomes.Community involvement is key to addressing mental healthissues.Self-care is vital for maintaining mental well-being.Utilizing available resources, like private medicalinsurance, can save lives.Sound bites"It's okay to speak up.""Helping other people helped me.""We can all make change." Chapters 00:00 World Suicide Prevention Day and Personal Reflections07:58 Changing the Narrative on Mental Health in theWorkplace16:18 The Adam Taylor Project: A Response to Tragedy24:59 Empowering Conversations: Initiatives for MentalHealth SupportKeywordsmental health, suicide prevention, workplace support,personal journey, community initiatives, mental health awareness, empowerment,support systems, changing the narrative, self-care

SummaryIn this episode of Hard Hats and Headspace, Stuart Wallace interviews Ray Higgins, the Labour Manager for Phoenix ME. They discuss Ray's journey from an electrical apprentice to his current role, the challenges of attracting younger generations to the construction industry, and the importance of supporting apprentices. They also delve into the significance of understanding neurodiversity in the workplace and practical solutions for enhancing employee performance. The conversation highlights the need for better pathways for students entering the workforce and the role of SMEs in providing opportunities for new talent. In this conversation, the speakers explore various themes including the impact of ADHD on performance, the journey through university and unexpected career paths, experiences in recruitment and consultancy, and the respect for the recruitment industry. They also discuss the growth and challenges faced by Phoenix, the future of London projects, and the importance of effective stakeholder management. The conversation concludes with reflections on the potential for positive change in the industry and the city.TakeawaysRay Higgins shares his journey from electrical apprentice to Labour Manager.The importance of supporting apprentices in their career development.Challenges in attracting younger generations to the construction industry.The need for better pathways for students entering the workforce.The role of SMEs in providing opportunities for new talent.Understanding neurodiversity can enhance workplace dynamics.Practical solutions can help employees perform better in their roles.The significance of mentorship in the construction industry.Creating a supportive environment for neurodiverse individuals is crucial.The construction industry must adapt to modern educational needs. ADHD can influence performance positively.University choices can shape career paths unexpectedly.Recruitment was not initially on the radar for many.Respect for the recruitment industry grows with experience.Experiences in recruitment can lead to lifelong friendships.Handling challenges effectively can strengthen a business.Communication is key during tough times in business.London's construction industry is experiencing growth.Public projects require careful stakeholder management.Passion for the industry drives future prospects.Keywordsconstruction, apprenticeships, neurodiversity, labor management, Phoenix ME, industry challenges, employee support, skills development, career pathways, attracting talent, ADHD, performance, recruitment, consultancy, career choices, London projects, stakeholder management, growth, challenges, industry insightsChapters00:00 Introduction to Ray Higgins and His Career Path03:10 Day-to-Day Responsibilities at Phoenix ME06:29 Attracting the Next Generation to Construction09:38 Addressing Neurodiversity in Apprenticeships12:26 Innovative Approaches to Training and Development15:09 Practical Solutions for Memory and Focus15:52 Systemic Inclusion in Recruitment17:29 Recognizing Unique Skills in Individuals18:22 Personal Experiences with ADHD19:46 The Journey Through Education and Career Choices23:21 Respecting the Recruitment Industry24:50 Challenges in Supply Chain Management25:55 Lessons from Recruitment and Industry Politics26:56 Remembering Influential Figures in the Industry28:35 Growth and Resilience at Phoenix29:55 Crisis Management and Communication31:19 Future Projects and Industry Aspirations33:02 The Role of Public Bodies in Construction35:17 Looking Ahead: Opportunities and Challenges36:23 Remembering Max White: A Tribute

Really enjoyed making this recap and looking back on these 8 episodes - incredibly proud of getting this out there, spreading the word. Hope you enjoy it!We will hear again from Johnny and Matt at What About Ye? Then we move on to talk to Ose, Lauren Rimmer of Construct Change, Tom Chapman, the amazing Paul Stephenson, Sarah Roads, Phil Ridgewell and Nick O'Shea.

Join Stuart with his impromptu recording with Phil Ridgwell - interrupted not once but TWICE by the Ice Cream Man! All left in for the fun of it. You can search Phil up on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/philridgwell/ and if you are on the Instagram, follow him on @philridgwell and @coregroupStuart saw a post on Phil's LinkedIn and he was worried about Phil, so rang him up. They ended up recording a meandering podcast about business leadership, neurodiversity, pressure at work and the buzz it can give as well as take. Some fun in there too, including Senor Whippy interrupting us (twice!)

SummaryIn this episode, Stuart and Tom Chapman discuss the intersection of mental health and the barbering industry, focusing on how pop-up haircuts can create safe spaces for conversations about mental health. They explore the challenges faced by the construction industry, the importance of early intervention, and the need for accessible health checks. Tom shares insights from his training program, Here to Talk, which aims to equip individuals with the skills to have meaningful conversations about mental health. The conversation emphasizes the power of connection, community support, and the ongoing need for mental health awareness initiatives.Contact Details:Instagram: @tomchapman_hair@lionsbarbercollective@heretotalkmhWebsite: https://www.heretotalktraining.com/Tom's books are available on Amazon:The Mighty Lions & the Big Match: What if We Don't Win? https://amzn.eu/d/hMeKx4OHow to Listen So Men will Talk: 4 Steps to Get Men Talking About Their Mental Health https://amzn.eu/d/bqy7iNyLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tom-chapman-hon-lld-965b566a/Keywordsmental health, suicide prevention, barbers, pop-up haircuts, construction industry, early intervention, community support, training, Here to Talk, mental health awareness

SummaryIn this episode, Stuart and Lauren Rimmer discuss the importance of corporate social responsibility (CSR) in the construction industry, the challenges faced by SMEs in meeting CSR standards, and the critical need for inclusion and diversity. They explore the impact of sobriety on professional life, the culture of alcohol and drugs in construction, and the link between mental health and substance abuse. The conversation also highlights the launch of CONICORE, a new networking initiative aimed at driving change in the industry.Lauren is the Founder and CEO of Construct Change. Keywordsconstruction, corporate social responsibility, inclusion, neurodiversity, sobriety, mental health, industry culture, SMEs, education, networkingTakeawaysCorporate responsibility combines commercial success with social purpose.The majority of contracts in construction are held by SMEs, which face unique challenges.Inclusion in the workplace begins with creating a safe environment for all employees.Mental health issues in construction are exacerbated by industry pressures and substance abuse.Supportive work environments can significantly improve employee well-being and productivity.Listening to employees is crucial for fostering inclusion and understanding their needs.The culture of alcohol and drugs in construction needs to be addressed for better mental health outcomes.Education and training are essential for helping SMEs meet CSR standards.Neurodiversity should be embraced as a valuable asset in the workforce.Challenging traditional practices can lead to meaningful change in the industry.Links:Website www.construct-change.co.uk LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauren-rimmer-47160375/ Lauren’s recommended follow - Millie Gooch! https://tr.ee/yElU4ZknJq TitlesBuilding a Better Future: CSR in ConstructionThe Power of Inclusion: Changing Industry CultureSound bites"99.9% of contracts in the industry are SMEs.""Listening is the first point of inclusion.""We need to treat our people fairly."Chapters00:00 Introduction to Construct Change and Its Mission02:39 Understanding Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and ESG05:17 Challenges for SMEs in Meeting CSR Standards08:05 The Importance of Diversity and Inclusion in Construction10:37 The Role of Neurodiversity in the Industry13:00 Sobriety and Its Impact on Construction Culture15:31 Addressing the Drugs and Alcohol Culture in Construction30:41 Re-educating for a Better Culture35:09 Learning from Mistakes and Personal Growth35:41 Understanding Neurodiversity41:03 The Strengths of Neurodiversity46:18 The Importance of Mental Health52:04 Social Responsibility in the Workplace54:31 The Future of Networking in Construction

Keywordsworkforce wellbeing, mental health, night shift, neurodiversity, health education, nutrition, productivity, construction industry, employee support, workplace safety, mental health, nutrition, hydration, ATP project, Adam Taylor project, workplace wellbeing, marginal gains, community support, personal development, health awarenessTakeaways The importance of addressing mental health in the workplace.Nutrition and hydration play a crucial role in overall well-being.Mineral salts are essential for recovery and hydration.The ATP Project aims to provide support for mental health issues.Community support is vital for those struggling with mental health.Open conversations about mental health can save lives.Personal experiences can drive change in workplace culture.Education on nutrition can improve physical and mental health.Creating a supportive environment is key to employee well-being.Every small effort counts in making a difference. SummaryIn this episode of Hard Hat and Headspace, host Stuart Wallis discusses the critical issues surrounding workforce wellbeing, particularly for night shift workers. Joined by guests Johnny and Matt from What About Ye, they explore the unique challenges faced by night workers, including mental health implications, societal perceptions, and the economic impact of poor mental health. The conversation emphasizes the importance of education, nutrition, and practical solutions to improve the wellbeing of night shift workers, while also sharing personal stories of transformation and resilience. In this conversation, the speakers delve into the importance of mental health awareness, nutrition, and community support within the workplace. They discuss the marginal gains that can be achieved through proper hydration and nutrition, emphasizing the role of mineral salts. The ATP Project, named after Adam Taylor, aims to address mental health issues in the construction industry, highlighting the need for open conversations and support systems. The speakers share personal experiences and reflections on their journeys, advocating for a culture of understanding and support in the workplace.TitlesNavigating Night Shift ChallengesEmpowering Night Workers: A Call to ActionSound bites"Fatigue kills.""What about ye?""We are stronger together."Chapters00:00 Introduction to Workforce Wellbeing04:13 The Challenges of Night Shift Work12:21 Health Implications of Night Work20:02 Strategies for Improving Night Shift Health27:07 Nutrition and Wellbeing in the Workplace36:45 Introduction to Health and Safety Initiatives38:45 The Concept of Marginal Gains in Health40:56 Personal Health Journeys and Mental Well-being44:04 The Importance of Nutrition in Well-being51:47 Innovative Health Solutions and Community Engagement01:05:02 Understanding ATP and Its Relevance to Health and Safety01:06:02 The Impact of Mental Health in Construction01:08:23 Statistics and Realities of Suicide in the Industry01:10:51 Personal Stories and the Need for Change01:13:19 The Adam Taylor Project: A New Initiative01:16:53 The Business Case for Mental Health Awareness01:19:47 The Importance of Open Conversations01:22:29 Future Plans and Community Support01:28:08 Personal Growth and Favourite Books

Welcome to my new podcast where I will be talking work, wellbeing and managing workforces. I looking back over my career with people I have worked with and those who want to come and talk about theres. Fundamentally this is about "Industrial Relations" - the art of working with people. Sign up to find out more!