In this episode, Russ speaks with Pixie, a heating engineer, about her journey into the trade, the challenges of adult apprenticeship, and the importance of mental health awareness in the trades.

Find Pixie here -

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

They delve into Pixie's personal experiences with menopause, PMDD, and endometriosis, discussing the struggles of seeking medical help and the need for better education and support for women going through these changes. The conversation highlights the importance of community, advocacy, and the necessity for workplace policies that address menopause and women's health issues.

Thanks to our headline sponsors - Zinsser

Guest Merchandise sponsor - The Funky Peach

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