In this episode, I sit down with Sian Brennan-Todd, a confidence coach who went from life as a professional dancer to helping people back themselves in business and in life.Find Sian here -https://www.instagram.com/sianbrennantodd?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==We get into why confidence isn’t something you’re “born with” — it’s something you build one small promise at a time. Sian talks openly about the fear of being seen, why public speaking scares so many of us, and how communication skills can make or break you, especially if you’re self-employed in the trades.We talk about:• Why confidence is a daily practice, not a switch• How your social circle impacts your belief in yourself• Why stepping outside your comfort zone is the only way to grow• Setting boundaries, saying no, and protecting your energy• How gratitude, self-reflection, and kindness shift everything• The pressure social media puts on self-worth• Why professionalism matters more than ever in the tradesThis one’s for anyone who wants to level up personally or professionally but feels stuck, doubtful, or held back by their own thoughts. If you run a business, work for yourself, or want to communicate with more confidence, Sian gives simple, practical tools you can start using today.It’s a proper reminder that confidence isn’t magic — it’s a habit.Thanks to our Headline Sponsors - Zinsser Chapters00:00 Introduction to Confidence Coaching04:33 Cultural Perspectives on Trades and Confidence10:34 Empowerment and Public Speaking17:21 The Role of Confidence in the Trades23:25 Communication and Trust in Business29:26 The Impact of Attitude on Success35:33 Embracing Growth Beyond the Comfort Zone42:46 Navigating External Opinions and Self-Perception50:58 The Role of Professionalism in Confidence59:39 Surrounding Yourself with Supportive Circles01:05:02 The Power of Connection and Communication01:16:55 Building Confidence Through Commitment01:22:06 Trusting Yourself and Taking Risks01:28:52 The Journey of Growth and Confidence01:34:31 Saying No: A Confidence Builder01:40:04 Communication as a Key to Confidence01:50:10 The Impact of Kindness on Confidence01:55:55 Taking Control of Your Life02:01:00 The Importance of Communication Skills02:08:30 Encouraging Social Interaction in the Younger Generation02:15:11 The Power of Communication in Business02:20:13 Embracing Change and Personal Growth

In this episode of The Talking Tradesman, I sit down with Will Castle — TEDx speaker, filmmaker, mental-health advocate, and founder of the “Heirlooms” project. Find Will at www.willcastle.comhttps://www.instagram.com/willc239?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==Will lost his father to suicide at just 22 years old, an event that shattered his world and forced him into a journey of grief, identity, and survival. For years he held that pain in silence, but eventually turned it into a mission to break the stigma around men’s mental health and suicide bereavement.Will opens up about his childhood, the day he discovered his father had taken his own life, and the emotional fallout that followed. He talks about depression, anger, guilt, and the hidden impact suicide has on the families left behind. We explore why so many men still struggle to ask for help, how generational silence contributes to mental-health decline, and why open conversations are one of the most powerful tools we have.He also shares the story behind “Heirlooms” — the award-winning short film he helped create to give a voice to those living with suicide loss. The project has reached thousands, raising awareness and building understanding around a topic many still fear or avoid. Through his talks, filmmaking, fundraising and advocacy, Will has become a leading voice for people navigating grief, trauma and post-suicide recovery.This episode is raw, emotional, honest — and vital. Whether you’ve experienced loss yourself or you simply want to understand mental health on a deeper level, Will’s story will stay with you long after the episode ends.Thanks to ourHeadline Sponsor - Zinsser Topics we cover: • The moment Will’s life changed forever • How grief affects mental health over time • The stigma surrounding suicide and why it persists • Why men struggle to talk openly about their emotions • Creating Heirlooms and amplifying unheard stories • How to support someone affected by suicide • Finding purpose after traumaIf you or someone you know is struggling, please reach out. Talking saves lives.

In this episode of The Talking Tradesman, Chris Ryan sits down to unpack a career that spans painting and decorating, psychotherapy, and co-founding the new wellbeing platform, Handily.Find Chris here -https://www.instagram.com/handily.app?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==This one goes deep. We get into why listening is a superpower on and off the tools, how family dynamics shape the way we work, and the reality of mental health challenges in the construction industry. Chris shares what he learned volunteering with Samaritans, the hidden pressures tradespeople carry, and how trauma, substance abuse, and emotional health show up in day-to-day life.We talk openly about men’s mental health, the power of therapy, and what real self-discovery looks like when you finally stop running from your own story.You’ll also hear Chris break down the messy, playful, human side of therapy — toxic compassion, boundaries, supervision, and why the industry desperately needs better regulation and honesty. If you’ve ever wondered how to choose the right therapist, or why some approaches work for one person and not another, this episode will hit home.And for the first time, we introduce Handily — a brand-new platform designed to support tradespeople with community, wellbeing tools, and a space to talk about the stuff we’re all dealing with but rarely say out loud.If you work in the trades, if you care about mental health, or if you’re just trying to understand yourself a bit better… this episode is a must-listen.Thanks to our Headline sponsors - Zinsser Chapters00:00 Navigating Self-Disclosure in Professional Settings00:54 The Journey to Mental Health Awareness04:56 The Role of Listening in Therapy08:52 Finding Purpose Through Volunteering13:03 Balancing Family and Business in the Trades17:57 Mental Health Challenges in the Construction Industry22:01 Understanding the Perfect Storm of Issues26:30 The Nature of Suffering and Generational Trauma28:34 The Transmission of Trauma31:45 Understanding Mental Health and Emotional Health35:24 The Role of Construction in Men's Mental Health38:30 The Distinction Between Mental Health and Emotional Health44:56 Anger: A Tool for Protest and Boundary Setting49:58 Understanding Emotions for Lasting Change56:02 The Journey to Becoming a Therapist01:01:03 Engagement in Therapy: The Playful Approach01:02:43 Toxic Compassion: The Balance of Care01:05:16 The Importance of Supervision in Therapy01:06:48 Integrative Therapy: A Blend of Modalities01:10:25 Finding the Right Therapist: A Personal Journey01:11:42 The Wild West of Therapy: Regulation and Standards01:15:40 The Responsibility of Mental Health Advocates01:20:11 Boundaries in Mental Health Conversations01:23:42 The Therapeutic Alliance: Building Relationships in Therapy01:35:26 Navigating Social Interactions and Personal Boundaries01:38:39 The Role of Context in Social Expectations01:41:38 Understanding Vulnerability in Therapy01:44:40 Bridging the Gap: Therapy for Tradespeople01:49:45 Introducing Handily: A New Platform for Trades01:58:44 Community and Networking in the Trades02:05:15 The Future of Social Media and Community Building

In this episode of The Talking Tradesman, Paul Tinker joins me for a raw and honest conversation about life in the construction industry — from military discipline to battling alcohol, rebuilding his life, and becoming a high-level project manager and business coach.Find Paul here -https://www.instagram.com/paul_tinker_32?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==Paul breaks down the hard truths most tradespeople never get taught:why so many struggle with pricing, systems, profit, and growth… and how learning basic business fundamentals can completely change your career, your confidence, and your bank balance.We get into the future of construction — premium services, rising customer expectations, a widening skills gap, and how automation and AI are about to shake the industry from the ground up.We also talk openly about mental health in the trades, accountability, personal development, and what it really takes to build a life you’re proud of. Paul shares why he’s considering relocating to Cyprus for better tax rules, more freedom, and a better quality of life.If you’re a tradesperson, construction business owner, or anyone wanting to level up in life and business, this episode is packed with straight-talking advice, real experience, and the mindset shifts you need to grow.Topics include:• Construction industry challenges• Mental health & addiction in the trades• Business coaching for tradespeople• Pricing, systems & profitability• Automation, AI & the future of construction• Skills shortages & industry evolution• Premium services vs. race-to-the-bottom pricing• Personal growth, accountability & discipline• Relocating abroad for lifestyle and tax benefitsThanks to our headline sponsors Zinsser Episode available now on all platformsChapters00:00 The Journey of Paul Tinker05:51 Challenges in the Construction Industry13:36 The Impact of Alcohol on Life and Work25:54 Transitioning to Coaching and Mentorship29:53 Risk Management in Project Delivery32:51 Transitioning from Tradesperson to Business Owner36:24 The Importance of Project Management Skills38:56 Understanding Revenue vs. Profit42:33 Sales Skills in the Trades45:03 The Role of Perfectionism in Business48:19 Pricing Strategies and Business Efficiency51:28 The Future of the Construction Industry01:08:41 The State of the Construction Industry01:13:38 Challenges in Emergency Services and Trade Skills01:17:02 The Impact of VAT Changes on Small Businesses01:21:15 The Appeal of Moving Abroad01:33:24 Business Coaching and Industry Insights

Seáns back on the pod ! I catch up with Seàn Nolan Find Seán herehttps://www.instagram.com/nolan_decorating?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==A year on from his first appearance, he talks honestly about the growth he’s gone through, the impact his last episode had on people, and why community matters more than ever in the painting and decorating world. We get into how events have evolved, how powerful a supportive network can be, and what it’s meant for him to step into an ambassador role's with Paint Warrior & Q1 TapesThere’s a big thread running through this conversation — connection. Real connection. The kind that changes how you see yourself and how you move in the industry.We also dive into the messy side of social media: authenticity, tribalism, brand loyalty, setting boundaries, and figuring out who you are without losing yourself online. It’s honest, it’s grounded, and it’s full of the kind of insights that only come from lived experience.And of course, we look ahead — creative ideas, future projects, and how much further you can go when the right people are in your corner.Big Thanks to our Headline sponsors Zinsser & our episode sponsors Q1 TapesChapters00:00 Navigating Industry Dynamics00:08 Reflections on Personal Growth02:59 Community and Connection in the Trade06:08 The Evolution of Events in the Industry09:59 Building a Supportive Network12:58 Recognition and Awards in the Trade15:59 The Importance of Mental Health19:04 Looking Back and Moving Forward24:17 Networking and Building Connections26:58 The Rise of the Irish Pain Fam28:49 Planning Future Events and Charity Initiatives30:01 The Importance of Community Support33:27 The Value of Networking in Business36:50 Ambassadorships and Brand Loyalty41:15 Navigating Brand Relationships and Tribalism45:48 Staying Authentic in a Competitive Space50:18 The Dangers of Industry Drama56:32 Keeping Perspective in the Industry57:18 The Value of Connections58:43 Building Relationships in Business01:01:03 Ambassadorships and Brand Loyalty01:01:18 Future Aspirations and Charity Initiatives01:03:59 The Importance of Boundaries01:08:05 Learning to Say No01:11:20 The Power of Deposits01:12:11 Pricing and Value Perception01:14:55 Continuous Learning and Growth01:17:33 Creativity and Content Creation01:19:31 Reflections on the Year Ahead

In this episode, I sit down with Reiss Loftus — a lad who went from a rough upbringing in Leicester to becoming a professional dancer, coach, and a real voice for men’s mental health. Reiss opens up about how his environment shaped him, the battles he had with drink and drugs, and how dance became the thing that pulled him out of it.Find Reiss here https://www.instagram.com/reiss_livetoinspireloftus?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==We talk about the birth of Brotherhood Legion, the men’s mental-health community interest company he founded, and why creating safe spaces for lads to open up is more important now than ever.Find them herehttps://www.instagram.com/thebrotherhoodlegion.cic?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==There’s a big focus on mindset in this one — positive self-talk, the people you surround yourself with, choosing ambition over chaos, and how community can completely change your trajectory. We also get into the power of networking, the shift from performing to coaching, and some honest takes on where society’s heading with things like digital ID.This episode is all about connection, purpose, and building something bigger than yourself. If you’re into mental health, personal growth, or just love a proper real conversation — this one’s for you.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Brotherhood Legion and Mental Health Advocacy02:24 Rhys Loftus: A Journey from Adversity to Opportunity13:53 The Impact of Environment on Choices and Growth19:33 The Turning Point: Embracing Dance as a Lifeline28:29 Navigating Challenges: Substance Use and Personal Growth32:51 The Highs and Lows of Performance Life34:47 The Competitive Dance Industry37:18 Cruising Through Life: The Cruise Ship Experience39:17 The Wild Side of Life at Sea40:37 Living the Dream: Balancing Work and Play42:03 The Transformation: From Streets to Stages43:11 The Contrast of Two Worlds44:39 Breaking Through Limitations46:27 The Journey of Self-Discovery47:11 The End of an Era: Leaving the Cruise Life49:07 The Downfall: Struggles with Addiction52:26 The Breaking Point: A Call for Help55:49 The Aftermath: Rebuilding Life01:00:27 The Power of Positive Self-Talk01:02:55 Surrounding Yourself with Positivity01:07:27 Unlocking Potential Through Environment01:09:12 The Power of Networking01:15:36 Transitioning Careers and Personal Growth01:22:27 Conspiracy Theories and Societal Control01:36:37 The Brotherhood Legion: Building Community and Support01:40:26 The Impact of Movement and Community on Mental Health01:43:19 The Birth of the Brotherhood: A Personal Journey01:46:21 Community Engagement and Its Transformative Power01:47:50 Challenging the Narrative: The Need for Positive Stories01:53:16 Finding Purpose Through Service to Others02:04:38 The Journey of Growth and Connection

In this episode of The Talking Tradesman Podcast, I sit down with Laura Faux, the voice behind Life of a Female Tradie. We talk about what it’s really like being a woman in the construction industry — the challenges, the wins, and everything in between.Find Laura here - https://www.instagram.com/lifeofafemaletradie_?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==Laura opens up about her journey on the tools and how podcasting became an outlet to share real stories that inspire others. We dive deep into the mental health struggles that come with a demanding trade, and how journaling, meditation, and mindfulness have helped her find peace and balance.This one touches on energy, crystals, and mindset — but more than anything, it’s about growth, self-awareness, and learning to find purpose in what you do. Whether you’re in construction or not, there’s a message here for anyone trying to balance work, life, and their own mental wellbeing.

Thanks to our Headline sponsors - Zinsser

Episode sponsors - Q1 Tapes

Chapters00:00 Introduction and Podcasting Journey01:49 The Life of a Female Tradie04:45 Challenges in a Male-Dominated Industry07:54 The Role of Social Media in Trades10:57 Personal Journey into Painting and Decorating13:53 Experiences in the Security Industry16:55 The Impact of Negative Work Environments19:45 Reflections on Life and Death22:58 The Emotional Toll of Work25:43 Conclusion and Future Aspirations32:54 The Challenges of Managing Properties in Bad Weather37:04 The Impact of Work-Related Stress on Mental Health40:47 Navigating Relationship Breakdowns and Personal Crisis44:46 The Role of Family Support in Overcoming Adversity46:41 Exploring Mindfulness and Self-Discovery Through Journaling52:36 Understanding Meditation and Finding Peace in Daily Life58:50 Harnessing Positive Energy and the Power of Crystals01:05:46 The Influence of Media on Mental Health and Perception01:09:40 Weather and Its Perception01:11:17 Mindset Shift and Positivity01:13:41 Embracing Challenges and Growth01:15:54 The Power of Stoic Philosophy01:16:57 Enjoying the Journey01:18:45 The Evolution of a Decorator01:21:25 Experiences at Trade Shows01:24:45 Mental Health Awareness in the Trade01:26:26 Balancing Work and Personal Life01:29:06 Managing Workload and Expectations01:33:42 The Importance of Breaks and Recovery01:38:08 Navigating Burnout and Productivity01:41:53 Aging and Its Impact on Work01:44:33 Final Thoughts and Reflections

⚠️ Trigger Warning: This episode contains open discussions about sexual abuse, addiction, and trauma, which some viewers may find distressing.In this powerful episode of The Talking Tradesman Podcast, Matthew Morton — better known as the BKB Spider — opens up about his journey from childhood trauma and addiction to rebuilding his life through faith, recovery, and bare-knuckle boxing.Matthew shares the raw truth about battling inner demons, finding purpose through pain, and how community and conversation helped him change direction. He speaks honestly about mental health in men, the strength it takes to open up, and how the sport of bare-knuckle boxing gave him a second chance at life.This one’s emotional, honest, and full of lessons about resilience, healing, and the power of never giving up.Thanks to our Headline Sponsors - Zinsser Episode Sponsor - Brewers Decorators Centres Chapters00:00 Introduction and Setting the Stage01:58 The Journey of the BKB Spider04:55 Childhood and Family Dynamics07:51 The Impact of Abuse and Addiction11:03 The Struggles of Adolescence13:56 Turning Point: Speaking Out16:59 Consequences and Legal Battles20:00 The Path to Recovery23:52 Finding Purpose and Healing26:48 Reflections on Mental Health and Substance Abuse28:38 The Journey of Growth and Discipline30:00 Overcoming Addiction and Finding Purpose32:07 The Impact of Trauma and Forgiveness34:13 Transforming Pain into Strength36:15 Building a New Life Through Faith and Community38:26 The Value of Sharing Trauma39:58 From Darkness to Light: A New Path42:07 The Evolution of Bare Knuckle Fighting46:38 Training and Discipline in Fighting50:12 Living a Purposeful Life and Helping Others55:26 The Decline of Community and Connection57:48 The Impact of Social Media on Relationships01:00:47 Adapting to a Changing World01:02:18 The Journey of a Fighter01:06:09 The Respect Among Fighters01:11:56 Finding Passion and Purpose01:13:05 Life Beyond Fighting