Why Men in Hospitality Don’t Talk About Mental Health — and How We Change That

Men’s mental health in hospitality is still a taboo topic. In this honest episode, industry leaders share why that needs to change — and how we make it happen.

In this hard-hitting episode of Talking Hospitality, we tackle an issue that’s long been overlooked — men’s mental health in our industry. The statistics are stark: male hospitality workers are significantly more at risk of anxiety, burnout, and even suicide. But what’s behind the silence?

To explore this, we’re joined by a powerful panel of voices from across the sector:

• Joe McDonnell – 200 Hospitality
• Craig Prentice – mum. Hospitality Talent
• Paddy Howell – So Let’s Talk
• Frven Lim – WHAD Movement
• Aidan Fraser – Organic Recruitment

We discuss:

• Why men in hospitality still struggle to open up
• The outdated culture of "man up" and masking emotions
• How poor workplace design affects wellbeing
• What vulnerability in leadership really looks like
• Why Gen Z’s expectations are reshaping our industry
• Low-cost, high-impact ideas that employers can act on now
• How better staff spaces, community events and supplier partnerships can genuinely support teams

This episode is full of lived experience, real solutions, and an urgent call for cultural change.

Whether you’re a GM, a chef, a recruiter or a business owner — if you lead people, you need to hear this.

🎧 Tune in and let’s start creating workplaces where men can speak freely, lead authentically, and thrive.

👉 Explore more episodes, blogs and training at www.talkinghospitality.com

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