The Talking Tradesman

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

Jack Walton shares his journey and experiences with mental health, starting from his childhood to his teenage years. He discusses his upbringing in a religious household, his struggles with anxiety and bullying in school, and his process of coming out as gay.

Find Jack here -

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

Jack also opens up about his complicated relationship with his father and the lack of stability and consistency in their interactions. He reflects on the impact of these experiences on his mental health and the importance of finding purpose and breaking the cycle of trauma. Jack shares his journey of estrangement from his father and his struggles with anxiety and PTSD.

He initially ended his relationship with his father, hoping for a change, but was disappointed when his father didn't make an effort. After a few years, Jack decided to give their relationship another try, but it didn't work out. He also discusses his experiences with anxiety and how he manages it through self-care and therapy. Jack opens up about the traumatic events that led to his PTSD diagnosis and the impact it had on his life. In this final part of the conversation, Jack discusses his spiritual awakening in 2016, which completely transformed his life and led him on a journey of self-discovery and personal growth. He talks about the importance of positive thinking, self-love, and mindfulness in his healing process.

Jack also shares his belief in the power of the universe and the significance of living in the present moment. He discusses his book, 'Being the Best You,' which chronicles his journey and offers tips and exercises for personal development. Jack concludes by emphasizing the importance of finding one's values and living a life that aligns with them.

Thanks to our headline sponsors Zinsser

Guest merch - The Funky Peach

Alex shares his story of how he became "The Valley Viking", We get to know the man behind Eric Carpentry.

Find Alex Here -

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

We discuss the branding of Alex's business, Errioc Carpentry, and the significance of the name 'Valley Viking'. Alex, also known as the Valley Viking, discusses his journey as a carpenter and the challenges of building a successful business. He emphasises the importance of learning from mistakes and constantly evolving in the industry.

 Alex also addresses the misconceptions and backlash he faces as a social media influencer, highlighting the hard work and dedication that goes into building a brand. He shares his experiences of dealing with criticism and the importance of staying true to oneself. We also discusses the pressures and solitude that come with working in the construction industry and how he copes with them. He concludes by discussing the benefits and challenges of using social media to promote his business and build his reputation. In this conversation, Alex opens up about his motivations and the driving forces behind his success. He discusses his comfort with being in front of the camera and his confidence in various aspects of his life. He shares the personal tragedies that have shaped his perspective and fueled his determination to make the most of life. Alex also talks about his family and the importance of their support and validation. He emphasizes the importance of having purpose and goals, and how they have guided his journey. Alex discusses his plans for the future, including expanding his social media presence and pursuing opportunities in property development and presenting.

Thanks to our Headline Sponsors - Zinsser

Guest Merchandise - The Funky Peach

Jacob Guy, who works for Torfaen Sports Development, discusses his work supporting and raising awareness for mental health in his community.

Find Jacob here -

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

https://www.facebook.com/jacob.guy.1

He specifically focuses on running a targeted group for dads, recognising the need for support and resources for fathers. Jacob emphasises the importance of the connection between physical and mental health and the challenges that dads face in balancing work, parenting, and self-care.

He highlights the need for dads to prioritize time for themselves and to break the cycle of adverse childhood experiences. Jacob also acknowledges the impact of COVID-19 on new parents and the importance of providing support during this challenging time. The conversation covers various themes related to parenting, including the importance of consistency and small gestures in building strong relationships with children, the need for dads to be validated and listened to, the role of health visitors in supporting fathers, the importance of being real and showing vulnerability as a parent, the challenge of protecting children from the negative aspects of the world, the value of having an identity and purpose as a parent, the struggles and guilt associated with being a part-time or step-parent, the importance of self-care and finding coping strategies, and the benefits of gaining knowledge and challenging oneself as a parent.

The conversation with Jacob focused on the importance of providing support and resources for fathers. They discussed the challenges that fathers face, the need for safe spaces for dads to connect and share their experiences, and the role of sports and physical activity in promoting mental health and well-being. Jacob shared insights from the For Dads by Dads program in Torfaen, Wales, which offers a range of workshops and activities for dads. They also emphasized the importance of self-care and reflection for fathers, as well as the need for society to recognize and support the unique experiences of dads.

Thanks to our sponsors

Headline - Zinsser

Guest Merch - The Funky Peach

Danny shares his journey of dealing with ulcerative colitis and the impact it had on his physical and mental health.

Find Danny here -

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100071755002795&locale=en_GB

He underwent multiple surgeries, including the removal of his colon and the creation of a J-pouch. He discusses the challenges of living with a colostomy bag and the emotional toll it took on him. Despite the difficulties, he found support from his wife and family.

Danny also highlights the importance of raising awareness about bowel diseases and the mental health issues that can accompany them, Danny shares his experience with health issues, including heart problems and anxiety. He discusses the surgeries he underwent and the impact they had on his life.

Danny also talks about the challenges he faced in terms of support and understanding from others. He emphasizes the importance of perspective and resilience in dealing with adversity. In this part of the conversation, Russ and Danny discuss the importance of mental health and how it is often confused with mental illness. They compare mental health to physical health and emphasize the need to take care of both. They talk about the benefits of activities like walking in nature for improving mental health.

They also discuss the loss of a pet and the impact it can have on mental well-being. They touch on the topics of imposter syndrome, anxiety, and the challenges of being self-employed in the construction industry. They explore the reasons why construction workers are more susceptible to mental health issues, including isolation and the pressure of deadlines. They also discuss the role of medication and counseling in managing mental health.

Thanks to our sponsors

Headline - Zinsser

Guest merch - The funky peach

In this conversation, Cam, Nathan and Russ discuss the importance of physical and mental health and how they are interconnected. They talk about the free programs and advice they offer through Training Trades to help tradesmen improve their health and well-being.

Find Cam & Nathan here -

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

Nathan at Nice Decor here -

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

They emphasise the need to break bad habits and adopt healthier ones, such as regular exercise and proper nutrition. They also discuss the challenges of maintaining discipline and setting realistic goals. Cam shares his personal experience with therapy and how the gym has been a sanctuary for him.

They highlight the importance of consistency and incremental goal setting in achieving long-term health and fitness. The conversation explores the use of performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs) in the fitness industry and the potential dangers and ethical issues associated with it.

The speakers discuss the pressure to achieve a certain physique and the false advertising prevalent in the industry. They also highlight the importance of realistic goals and sustainable lifestyle changes. The conversation touches on the role of diet and exercise in achieving fitness goals and the need for proper education and guidance in the industry. The speakers also discuss their own experiences with mental health and the positive impact of fitness on their well-being. In this conversation, Russ and Nath discuss the importance of physical fitness and mental health, sharing their personal experiences and the impact it has had on their lives. They emphasize the need for discipline, routine, and self-care, highlighting the role of exercise in improving mental well-being. They also touch on the issue of van and tool theft in the trades industry and the lack of support and deterrents for such crimes. Overall, their message is one of hope, resilience, and the power of community.

Thanks to our sponsors -

Headline - Zinsser

Episode sponsors - Q1 tapes

Guest Merch - The Funky Peach

James Roffey, an online coach and life coach, shares his personal journey of overcoming an eating disorder and how it led him to his career.

Find James Here

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

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

He discusses the importance of addressing mental health in the fitness industry and the need for a balanced approach to physical and mental well-being. James also highlights the role of control and obsession in eating disorders and the impact of societal pressures on body image.

He emphasises the importance of finding positive outlets and seeking help to overcome challenges. The conversation covers topics such as mindset, the connection between physical and mental health, the role of self-development in fitness, the limitations of short-term transformations, the importance of balance in life, and the personal journey of the guest from overcoming an eating disorder to becoming a coach.

James shares his journey of relaunching his business and dealing with personal challenges, including infertility and the breakdown of his marriage. He emphasizes the importance of finding positives in difficult situations and taking control of one's own happiness. James also discusses the need to let go of relationships and situations that are no longer serving us. James discusses the importance of sitting with negative emotions and then taking action to make positive changes. He emphasizes the four pillars of physical, nutrition, mental, and balance as the key to a balanced and fulfilling life. Russ also talks about the power of learning from the Stoics and the importance of mindset in overcoming challenges. He shares his rebranding plans and the launch of a new program and online community to support people in their mental health and fitness journeys.

Thanks to our Headline sponsors - Zinsser

Merch Sponsors - The Funky Peach

Sarah from SK Painting and Decorating shares her journey from childhood to becoming a decorator.

Find Sara here -

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

She talks about her upbringing, school experiences, and her decision to join the police force. Sarah discusses her time as a PCSO and the challenges she faced dealing with mental health issues. She also highlights the lack of support and resources for mental health in the police force. Eventually, Sarah decided to leave the police and pursue a career in painting and decorating.

Sarah and Lauren decided to adopt a child and went through the adoption process. They chose to work with a charitable agency called Action for Children. They underwent training on child psychology and had to provide detailed information about their lives and upbringing. They were matched with a sibling pair, who were five years old at the time. They had playdates and intense introductions with the children and their foster carers.

In this final part of the conversation, the hosts discuss the challenges they faced during the adoption process and the subsequent disruption of the adoption. They talk about the difficulties they encountered with the local authority, the lack of support and accommodation, and the impact it had on their emotional well-being. They also discuss the expectations they had about adoption and the reality of adopting older children with complex needs. The hosts reflect on adoption and the long-term consequences for the children involved. They emphasize the need for better support systems and resources for adoptive families.

Thanks to our Sponsors

Zinsser (headline)

The Funky Peach (Merch)

**Trigger warning, contains talk on addiction, drug use and suicide**

Dan Holden, owner of Holden's Barbers, shares his journey surrounding mental health.

Find Dan here -

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

He struggled academically in school and felt misunderstood due to his ADHD. The school system's cookie-cutter approach didn't cater to his unique learning style. He was labeled as the 'naughty kid' without understanding why. This led to a negative self-perception and affected his mental health. Dan's rebellious behavior escalated, including drinking, taking drugs, and getting into fights. However, becoming a father made him realize the need for change and he left a toxic environment to provide a better upbringing for his son. Dan shares his journey of addiction, relationships, and mental health struggles. He reflects on the impact of his toxic environment on his son and the importance of breaking the cycle. Dan describes hitting rock bottom multiple times and the challenges of seeking help. He highlights the role of relationships in his ups and downs and the cycle of addiction. Dan also discusses the positive impact of lockdown and finding purpose in his barbering business. However, he ultimately falls back into old habits and faces another difficult period of addiction and mental health issues. Dan shares his journey of addiction, mental health struggles, and finding purpose and healing. He discusses episodes of psychosis, suicide attempts, and being sectioned. He talks about attending AA and NA meetings, finding support, and the power of helping others. Dan also shares his experience of converting to Islam and the positive impact it has had on his life. He emphasizes the importance of self-reflection, learning, and surrounding oneself with loved ones. Dan plans to start his own podcast to continue the conversation on addiction, mental health, and personal journeys.

Thanks to our Sponsors -

Headline - Zinsser

Merch - The Funky Peach

Russ & Matt delve into the guest's background, including his upbringing, coming out as gay, and his career journey from working in the civil service to becoming a painter and decorator.

Find Matt here -

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

The conversation touches on themes of family, acceptance, and personal growth. The conversation covers various topics including experiences in school, the education system, identity, and alcoholism. Matt discusses his personal experiences with school, including instances of discrimination and mistreatment.

They also touch on the current state of the education system and the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals. The conversation then shifts to the topic of identity and the hosts share their thoughts on the use of labels and pronouns. They also discuss the issue of accepting and accommodating different identities in society. The conversation concludes with a discussion on alcoholism and the impact it has on individuals and their relationships.

The conversation explores the theme of grief and bereavement, focusing on the personal experiences of losing a close friend. The speaker shares the story of his friend's sudden death and the impact it had on his life. They discuss the importance of talking about death and the taboo surrounding the topic. The conversation also touches on the struggle of hiding one's true identity and the need for acceptance and understanding. Overall, the conversation highlights the need for open and honest discussions about grief, death, and identity.

In this final part of the conversation, Matt discusses the challenges of being a gay painter and decorator and how his sexuality has become a unique selling point. He shares a story about a customer who hired him specifically because he felt safe with a gay decorator. Matt also talks about his decision to focus on interior work and his plans for the future. The conversation ends with a discussion about mental health in the construction industry and the importance of talking about struggles and seeking support.

Thanks to our Sponsors

Q1 tapes

https://www.instagram.com/q1_painting_solutions?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

Zinsser

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

The Funky Peach (Guest Merchandice)

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