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.

In this conversation, Russ and Victoria delve into the different types of eating disorders, such as anorexia, bulimia, and binge eating disorder, and the differences between men and women in terms of prevalence and presentation.

Find Victoria here

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

They also explore the triggers and underlying causes of eating disorders, including trauma and societal pressures. The conversation highlights the importance of addressing the underlying issues and providing support for individuals with eating disorders.

The conversation explores the treatment and support options for eating disorders, focusing on the combination of psychotherapy and medication. Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) is highlighted as an effective approach for bulimia and binge eating. The importance of understanding oneself and developing practical strategies to manage urges is emphasized.

The conversation also touches on the first steps individuals can take to explore whether they might have an eating disorder, as well as how concerned friends and family members can support someone they suspect is suffering. The impact of societal pressures and the fitness industry on body image and eating disorders is discussed, along with the correlation between neurodiversity and eating disorders. In this final part of the conversation, Russ and Victoria discuss the impact of culture and family dynamics on mental health, the importance of creating a nurturing home environment, and coping mechanisms such as journaling and ice diving. Victoria also shares her virtual and in-person interior design services and her goal of helping people create safe and comforting spaces. The conversation ends with a reminder to prioritize self-care and the power of long-form conversations.

Stuart McLean, a painter and decorator, shares his journey in the trades and the challenges he faced in site work.

Find Stuart here

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

He discusses the toxic culture and bullying that can occur on construction sites, as well as the stigma surrounding the painting and decorating trade. The conversation also touches on the unrealistic expectations set by social media and the need for tradespeople to support and respect each other.

Overall, the episode highlights the importance of mental health in the construction industry and the need for a shift in mindset and perception. Stuart discusses the challenges he faced after his father's sudden passing and how it affected his mental health. He and his brother took over their father's business, but faced difficulties with the house builder they were working for.

They were eventually subcontracted by another painting firm and worked for them for nine years. Stuart also shares a traumatic experience on a site and the toxic culture he encountered. He eventually transitioned away from site work and now runs his own business. In this conversation, Stuart and Russ discuss the challenges and pressures faced by tradespeople in the construction industry, including mental health issues.

They talk about the lack of respect and support in the industry, the prevalence of bullying and berating, and the need for a better work environment. Stuart shares his personal experiences of feeling undervalued and struggling with his mental health. They also discuss the power of social media in raising awareness and the importance of putting oneself out there to connect with customers. The conversation ends with a reminder to listen and support those who may be going through difficult times.

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