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==

Dan Rolfe, a painter and decorator, joins the podcast to discuss his journey with mental health.

Find Dan Here -

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

He opens up about his childhood, growing up in a single-parent household, and the absence of a father figure. Dan shares his struggles with anxiety and depression, as well as his tendency to avoid responsibilities and shut down.

He also talks about his need for validation and feeling like he's always second best. Despite these challenges, Dan emphasises the importance of being a good person and finding happiness in serving others. Dan discusses his journey through various jobs and how he eventually started his own painting and decorating business.

He opens up about his struggles with mental health and how it impacted his business. He also talks about his experiences traveling alone and how it has helped him build confidence and find his purpose. In this final part of the conversation, Russ and Dan discuss the importance of being authentic and open on social media, the challenges of working with the BBC, and Dan's travel experiences.

They also explore the idea of Dan creating content around different industries and skill exchanges. Dan shares his passion for creating content and his desire to find his niche in the market. They wrap up the conversation by discussing the future of their respective businesses and the importance of supporting each other.

Matt and Stacey from Custom Build Bros join Russ in the studio to discuss their journey in the woodworking industry and navigating the difficult circumstances after business partner Jack suffered a stroke..

Find Custom Build Bro's here -

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

They talk about how they started the business, their passion for working with wood, and the unique projects they have undertaken, such as building a canal boat and converting camper vans. They also discuss the challenges they have faced, including Jack's stroke and the impact it has had on the business.

Stacey's role in marketing and social media is highlighted as a crucial aspect of their success. In this conversation, Russ, Matt, and Stace discuss their journey as the Custom Build Bros and the importance of marketing and social media in the construction industry. They emphasize the need to be authentic and showcase their personalities through their social media presence.

They also touch on the challenges they have faced, including Jack's stroke and the impact it has had on their business. Despite the setbacks, they remain resilient and committed to their vision. The conversation ends with a message of support for Jack's recovery and a promise to continue their success together.

**Trigger warning - contains talk of suicide & suicidal thoughts**

Aled from How's Dad discusses his work in creating spaces for dads to talk openly about mental health and bond with their children.

Find Aled here

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

The conversation touches on the lack of support for fathers' mental health, the importance of fathers in child development, and the societal expectations placed on men. Aled shares his own experience of a mental health breakdown and a suicide attempt, highlighting the need to address these issues openly and honestly.

The conversation also explores the cultural pressure on men in Wales to conform to traditional masculine stereotypes. Aled shares his experience of having suicidal thoughts and attempting to take his own life. He discusses the recurring nightmares he had about sacrificing himself to protect his family and the intense feelings of not being enough as a husband and father.

Aled reflects on the moment he almost went through with his suicide attempt but was stopped by his son's unexpected display of affection. He emphasizes the importance of talking about mental health and the need to challenge societal expectations of masculinity. Russ also acknowledges the impact his actions had on his wife and family and the ongoing journey of forgiveness and self-acceptance. Aled shares his regret about his suicide attempt but also expresses gratitude for still being alive and using his negative experience as a positive force to support others.

He discusses the concept of post-traumatic growth and how he has found purpose in his life by helping other fathers who may be in a similar position. Aled emphasises the importance of reaching out for support and encourages others to take a few minutes to talk to someone before making impulsive decisions. He also highlights the need to break the stigma around mental health and urges people to be open and unashamed about their struggles.

In this conversation, Murph the Painter shares his journey from being bullied as a child to finding his passion for painting and decorating.

Find Murph here

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

https://www.tiktok.com/@murphthepainter?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc

He talks about the turning point in his life when a classmate stood up for him and put an end to the bullying. Murph also discusses the challenges and rewards of running his own business and the importance of self-employment for his personal growth.

He shares his experience with social media, particularly TikTok, and how it has helped him connect with others in the industry. Overall, the conversation highlights the resilience and determination of Murph in pursuing his passion and overcoming obstacles. In this conversation, Russ and Murph discuss various topics related to their experiences in the painting and decorating industry.

They talk about their accents, their interactions with other professionals through social media, and their experiences with different paint brands. They also touch on the importance of social media in marketing and networking, as well as the physical toll that the trade can take on their bodies. The conversation ends with a discussion about mental health in the industry and the importance of communication and understanding.