Onward Shift

Onward Shift
  • 5.0 (1)
  • MENTAL HEALTH

Welcome to Onward Shift! Get ready to dive into a world of incredible transformations and inspiring stories! Our platform is your front-row seat to the remarkable journeys of individuals from all walks of life. Each episode is a deep dive into the lives of our guests, who bravely share their unique experiences, challenges, and victories alongside our host, motivating you to keep achieving your goals, be it moving forward or taking a step back! We delve into themes of personal growth, resilience, and innovation.

  1. Men, Mental Health & The Power of Vulnerability - A Conversation with Valentin Moyo

    26 NOV

    Men, Mental Health & The Power of Vulnerability - A Conversation with Valentin Moyo

    Summary In this powerful and deeply human episode of the Men Are Human Too podcast, hosted by Valentin Moyo, guest Vishal Narbheram (founder of Onward Shift) opens up with raw honesty about the realities men face when dealing with mental health struggles. From suicidal thoughts and emotional burnout to navigating ADHD, OCD and the pressures of the construction industry, Vish shares what it truly takes to rebuild life from the inside out. Together, Valentin and Vish explore why asking for help is so difficult for men, how childhood environments and masculinity norms shape emotional expression and why vulnerability is not weakness but one of the strongest tools a man can develop. Vish speaks candidly about learning presence, grounding, trust and regulation through therapy, while Valentin guides the conversation with empathy, curiosity and genuine emotional intelligence. More than a conversation, this episode is a blueprint for healing, awareness, emotional wellbeing and cultural change. Whether you work in construction, support men, or have your own silent battles, this episode will speak to you deeply. 🎙️ Listen to Valentin’s podcast here:Men Are Human Too → https://open.spotify.com/show/3pnekgTcUNl43y3kjIhPSs?si=2cBqdeJ6SU6h_dl8kD3oFA  You can find Valentin on LinkedIn here- https://www.linkedin.com/in/valentine-z-moyo/  💬 Trigger Warning: This episode contains open discussions about suicide, trauma and men’s mental health struggles. Please listen with care. Takeaways Men often struggle to ask for help due to stigma, conditioning and fearSuicidal thoughts can build gradually reaching out can save a lifePresence, grounding and slowing down are powerful for mental wellbeingADHD and OCD make emotional regulation more challengingChildhood environments shape safety, trust and emotional identityMany men express pain through anger due to lack of emotional vocabularyTherapy offers structure, validation and a safe space to feelConstruction culture reinforces “man up” behaviours but is changingMixed-gender support provides wider emotional perspectivesA victim is a victim support must be accessible to everyone Chapters 00:00 Life Is Unpredictable: Why Community Matters01:32 When Support Disappears During Hard Times03:00 Welcome to Men Are Human Too — Introducing Vish03:32 Men Asking for Help: Why It’s So Hard04:20 Suicidal Thoughts & the Turning Point05:57 Learning Presence, Gratitude & Slowing Down08:20 What Presence Really Feels Like10:43 ADHD, Overthinking & Constant Mental Noise12:15 Learning to Relax & Trust Through Therapy13:05 Grounding, Touch, Sensory Work & Breathing15:32 Closing His Eyes in Public for the First Time in 5 Years17:33 How Therapists Build Trust19:58 Emotional Tension, Anxiety & Somatic Awareness20:22 Swearing vs Feeling: Why Men Express Anger22:27 Childhood, Environment & Lack of Emotional Vocabulary24:53 Why Men Explode Emotionally27:12 Are Therapy Platforms for Men Necessary?29:28 Groups vs Therapy — Which Helps When?31:29 Breaking Down Men’s Mental Health Stages33:49 The Reality of Male Domestic Violence Support35:59 Creating Safe Spaces Without Gender Bias38:23 Gendered Support, Statistics & Compassion40:52 “A Victim Is a Victim” — Why Support Must Be Equal42:10 Balancing Passion, Empathy & Advocacy46:00 Closing Reflections & The Path Forward 🎙️ Support & Stay Connected 🎙️ If you like this episode, please like it and share it. 🎙️ Don’t forget to subscribe for more updates. Follow Onward Shift: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/onwardshift/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@onwardshiftLinkedIn Page: https://www.linkedin.com/company/onward-shift/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/onwardshift/Learn more about the mental health support we offer:https://onwardshift.com

    1h 4m
  2. The Hidden Struggles of Gambling Addiction

    15 OCT

    The Hidden Struggles of Gambling Addiction

    SummaryIn this powerful and eye-opening episode of the Onward Shift podcast, host Vishal Narbheram sits down with Katy Wilson from the charity Bet Know More and Andy May, who courageously shares his lived experience of gambling addiction. Together, they unpack the hidden realities of gambling harm from the first bet to the deep personal, emotional and financial consequences that follow. Katie brings insight into the critical role of lived experience in shaping support services, while Andy’s story highlights the impact of addiction on relationships, mental health and identity. The conversation also exposes how advertising and technology normalise gambling in society, especially among younger audiences. This is more than a discussion it’s a call for awareness, empathy and systemic change. With honesty and vulnerability, both guests show that recovery is possible when community, understanding and the right support come together. Trigger Warning: This episode contains open discussions about gambling addiction, mental health struggles and suicide. Please listen with care. Takeaways Lived experience is crucial in providing effective support for gambling harmsGambling addiction can escalate quickly, often starting as a social activityThe stigma surrounding gambling addiction can prevent individuals from seeking helpSupport services like Bet No More play a vital role in recoveryAwareness and education are key to preventing gambling-related harmsAdvertising normalises gambling behaviour, especially among youthThe impact of gambling extends beyond financial loss to affect relationships and mental healthRecovery is a personal journey that requires support and understandingCommunity outreach and workplace training help identify and support those at riskOpen conversations about gambling reduce stigma and encourage individuals to seek help Chapters00:00 Introduction to Gambling Harms and Personal Stories02:00 Andy May's Journey Through Gambling Addiction06:51 The Impact of Gambling on Relationships09:54 The Consequences of Relapse and Financial Ruin15:53 Facing the Legal System and Prison22:33 Mental Health Struggles in Prison28:05 Raising Awareness and Support for Gambling Addiction34:08 Navigating Professional Repercussions and Policies42:03 The Rise of Gambling Advertising45:38 Andy’s Journey: From Prison to Recovery53:11 Understanding Neurodiversity and Gambling54:46 The Need for Research and Awareness01:01:44 The Impact of Gambling on Relationships01:10:16 Support Services and Final Thoughts 🎙️ 𝐈𝐟 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐥𝐢𝐤𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐯𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐨, 𝐩𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐥𝐢𝐤𝐞 𝐢𝐭 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐬𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐢𝐭. 🎙️ 𝐃𝐨𝐧'𝐭 𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐠𝐞𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐬𝐮𝐛𝐬𝐜𝐫𝐢𝐛𝐞 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬. Follow Us On: - Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/onwardshift/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@onwardshift⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - LinkedIn Page: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/onward-shift/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/onwardshift/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Find out more about Onward Shift and the mental health support we offer here- ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://onwardshift.com⁠  Learn more about Bet Known More here - https://www.betknowmoreuk.org Learn more about Gamblers Anonymous here - https://gamblersanonymous.org.uk  Learn more about GAMCARE here - https://www.gamcare.org.uk/get-support/talk-to-us-now/?gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=22316887907&gbraid=0AAAAABtA3mAGz5G0oR_BmHnU8HVxB13NB&gclid=Cj0KCQjwgKjHBhChARIsAPJR3xfSj6OYVi8fJUMltiHLLyqTz1ggIr5GkC2GhZ1vu7omHrzTZoGN2k8aAhrqEALw_wcB Connect with Vishal Narbheram here - https://www.linkedin.com/in/vishal-narbheram-56bb3a194/ Connect with Katy Wilson here - https://www.linkedin.com/in/katy-cv-wilson-ma/ Connect with Andy May here - https://www.linkedin.com/in/andymay76/ Keywordsgambling, addiction, recovery, support services, awareness, personal stories, mental health, relationships, advertising, technology

    1h 16m
  3. Meet the Founder of Onward Shift - Vishal Narbheram

    10 SEPT

    Meet the Founder of Onward Shift - Vishal Narbheram

    SummaryIn this powerful episode of the Onward Shift podcast, the table turn when guest Vishal Narbheram sits down with host Jimmy Webb and opens up the first time about his personal journey with mental health and the challenges faced within the construction industry. He shares candid reflections on living with ADHD and OCD, the importance of vulnerability in breaking stigma and why cultural change is vital to supporting workers’ wellbeing. Vishal also highlights the grassroots approach behind Onward Shift a movement dedicated to raising awareness, engaging communities and providing real support systems for those struggling from therapy and storytelling to building stronger workplace cultures, this conversation shines a light on both the struggles and the solutions shaping the future of mental health in construction. Takeaways Onward Shift is not just a company; it’s a movement to help othersMental health struggles are prevalent in the construction industryVulnerability is crucial for opening conversations about mental healthBalancing multiple responsibilities can be challenging but rewardingExperiences of bullying can have long-lasting effects on mental healthStatistics show a high rate of mental health issues in construction workersCultural change is necessary to support mental health in the industrySupport systems and resources are available for those in needWomen play a significant role in supporting men’s mental healthTherapy and maintenance of mental health are important for everyone Chapters00:00 Introduction to Onward Shift and Personal Journey02:25 Mental Health Challenges in the Construction Industry05:41 The Importance of Vulnerability and Open Conversations08:03 Balancing Multiple Responsibilities and Passions10:47 Personal Experiences with Bullying and Trauma15:50 Statistics on Mental Health in Construction18:35 Financial Pressures and Their Impact on Mental Health21:07 The Role of Communication in Mental Health24:16 The Importance of Support Systems27:49 Onward Shift's Unique Approach to Mental Health30:31 Grassroots Efforts and Community Engagement36:56 Engaging with Mental Health Initiatives38:55 Practical Steps for Site Managers40:18 Cultural Change in Mental Health Support43:11 Top-Down vs Bottom-Up Approach46:21 Personal Mental Health Management50:18 The Impact of Podcasting on Mental Health Awareness55:40 Feedback and Real-Life Stories58:36 The Future of the Construction Industry01:00:28 Light-Hearted Moments in Construction 🎙️ 𝐈𝐟 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐥𝐢𝐤𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐯𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐨, 𝐩𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐥𝐢𝐤𝐞 𝐢𝐭 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐬𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐢𝐭. 🎙️ 𝐃𝐨𝐧'𝐭 𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐠𝐞𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐬𝐮𝐛𝐬𝐜𝐫𝐢𝐛𝐞 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬. Follow Us On: - Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/onwardshift/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@onwardshift⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - LinkedIn Page: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/onward-shift/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/onwardshift/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Find out more about Onward Shift and the mental health support we offer here- ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://onwardshift.com  Follow Construction Cogs here- https://www.youtube.com/@TheConstructionCogsPodcast

    1h 10m
  4. Masculinity with Author George Bell

    27 AUG

    Masculinity with Author George Bell

    Summary In this episode of the Onward Shift podcast, Vishal Narbheram and George Bell dive into the complexities of masculinity, mental health and the importance of vulnerability and connection among men. George shares his personal journey with mental health challenges and how they connect to societal expectations of masculinity. Together, they explore why men must challenge outdated roles, embrace vulnerability and build stronger communities of support. The discussion also highlights the vital role women play in men’s emotional journeys and how compassion and emotional intelligence can redefine strength. With George’s upcoming book, this conversation aims to spark a wider dialogue about creating a more expansive, healthier view of masculinity. 💬 Trigger Warning: This episode contains open discussions about mental health struggles and suicide. Please listen with care. Takeaways Masculinity is a complex and often rigid constructEmotional suppression can lead to severe mental health issuesVulnerability is essential for building strong connectionsMen often feel pressured to conform to traditional masculine rolesCommunity and support are crucial for mental healthWomen can play a significant role in supporting men’s emotional journeysMen need to take responsibility for their mental healthThere is a need for a more expansive definition of masculinityCompassion and emotional intelligence are strengths, not weaknessesOpen conversations about masculinity can lead to healing and understanding Chapters 00:00 Redefining Masculinity02:41 Personal Journeys and Mental Health05:21 The Impact of Emotional Suppression08:17 Vulnerability and Connection10:48 The Need for Expanded Masculinity13:59 The Role of Community and Support16:38 The Book: A New Perspective on Masculinity19:23 Challenging Traditional Views21:59 The Spectrum of Masculinity24:54 Collaboration Between Genders27:43 The Future of Masculinity and Support34:11 The Burden of Societal Expectations on Men36:31 The Role of Fathers and Caregiving40:07 The Need for Systemic Change in Work Culture42:01 Redefining Masculinity: A Personal Journey50:34 Women’s Role in Supporting Men’s Emotional Growth56:11 Men Supporting Women: A Call to Action Keywords masculinity, mental health, emotional suppression, vulnerability, community, men's health, gender roles, emotional intelligence, personal growth, societal expectations 🎙️ 𝐈𝐟 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐥𝐢𝐤𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐯𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐨, 𝐩𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐥𝐢𝐤𝐞 𝐢𝐭 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐬𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐢𝐭. 🎙️ 𝐃𝐨𝐧'𝐭 𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐠𝐞𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐬𝐮𝐛𝐬𝐜𝐫𝐢𝐛𝐞 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬. Follow Us On: - Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/onwardshift/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@onwardshift⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - LinkedIn Page: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/onward-shift/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/onwardshift/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Find out more about Onward Shift and the mental health support we offer here- ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://onwardshift.com⁠⁠⁠⁠ Pre order George Bells book on Amazon- ⁠https://www.amazon.co.uk/Be-Man-About-healthier-masculinity/dp/1907326138/ref=sr_1_1?crid=D4GXBQCJ0KAY&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.ewL1_Smd70raHJzINSn-vaJzlR4yVM2V-_XmBPbZbxf7m1qmlPNz91JTwg1nZbo8Q1ViuJPi2MdX3bAsmFHvS92fg3WRuVTyLXzuIkG1t19E79Ebm8xwBu3EabHIOYQTR485swoLKoZFovLjZBney4ZwSA518rz1A3vSfemD4lu4t4rQvwNRJaV-pPWCqNj4QklLd3ChKnhK23ACz4yNan8wIAZVl9Vr2Uu3jVICilw.DxNt5rjOmCmOOSb4Mr5MlNB9G1sqrchCfB1JkgYpyls&dib_tag=se&keywords=be+a+man+about+it+george+bell&qid=1756223366&sprefix=be+a+man+about+it+george+bell%2Caps%2C83&sr=8-1⁠ Pre order George Bells book on Waterstones- ⁠https://www.waterstones.com/book/be-a-man-about-it/george-bell/9781907326134⁠  George Bell on LinkedIn- ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/george-bell-10317184/⁠

    1h 6m
  5. Mental Health, Career Coaching & Cracking the Hidden Job Market

    13 AUG

    Mental Health, Career Coaching & Cracking the Hidden Job Market

    In this powerful episode of The Onward Shift, host Vishal Narbheram talks with career coach Stuart Blake about the often-overlooked link between mental health and job seeking. Drawing on over 30 years in recruitment and more than 4,000 coaching sessions, Stuart pulls back the curtain on today’s hiring landscape from the pitfalls of one-click applications and automated systems, to uncovering the hidden job market and using social media without damaging your well-being. The conversation goes beyond standard career coaching tips, exploring how confidence building, mentorship and personalised CV writing can transform your job search. Stuart explains why your personal interests matter just as much as your professional skills, how to use networking effectively and what it takes to make a career transition without sacrificing financial security or mental health. Key points covered in this episode: The hidden job market is vast but often overlooked.Why one-click applying can harm your chances.The mental toll of job hunting – and how to protect yourself.Using LinkedIn and other platforms strategically.Crafting a standout CV that reflects both skills and personality.Leveraging unrelated work experience to your advantage.Building confidence through shared interests and achievements.The right way to approach networking and mentorship.Planning career transitions with both purpose and stability in mind. Summary: Vishal and Stuart share real-world strategies for job seekers navigating the modern employment landscape. They discuss practical tools for standing out in crowded application pools, ways to turn personal passions into professional strengths, and how to maintain your mental health during the highs and lows of job searching. With a mix of practical advice and candid insights, this episode is a must-listen for anyone serious about finding fulfilling work. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Mental Health and Job Seeking02:03 The Impact of One-Click Applications04:20 Understanding the Hidden Job Market06:04 The Role of AI in Job Applications09:02 Navigating Social Media and Mental Health09:43 Using LinkedIn Effectively11:25 The Importance of Communication in Job Applications14:15 The Value of Diverse Experiences16:55 The Reality of Job Seeking and Employment18:46 Changing Perspectives on Employment and Degrees24:25 Building Confidence Through Commonality28:07 The Importance of Personalisation in CVs30:40 Quality Over Quantity in Job Applications32:49 Boosting Confidence and Mental Health35:04 Creating Positive Muscle Memory37:19 Finding Pride in Personal Achievements40:25 Navigating the Employment Landscape Post-COVID43:10 Taking Control of Your Job Search45:37 Navigating Job Seeker Challenges47:15 The Importance of Networking and CV Crafting51:22 Transitioning Careers: Strategies for Change57:57 The Role of Mentorship in Career Development Keywords: mental health, job seeking, career coaching, CV writing, social media, hidden job market, confidence building, mentorship, job applications, career transition Book a 1 to 1 session with Stuart here-  https://onwardshift.com/coaching-with-onward-shift/career-coaching/stuart-blake-career-coach/ 🎙️ 𝐈𝐟 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐥𝐢𝐤𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐯𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐨, 𝐩𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐥𝐢𝐤𝐞 𝐢𝐭 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐬𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐢𝐭. 🎙️ 𝐃𝐨𝐧'𝐭 𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐠𝐞𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐬𝐮𝐛𝐬𝐜𝐫𝐢𝐛𝐞 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬. Follow Us On: - Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/onwardshift/⁠⁠⁠ - TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@onwardshift⁠⁠⁠ - LinkedIn Page: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/onward-shift/⁠⁠⁠ - Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/onwardshift/⁠⁠⁠ Find out more about Onward Shift and the mental health support we offer here- ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://onwardshift.com⁠⁠

    1h 5m
  6. Tools Down, Lets Talk Mental Health in Construction with Steven Kirby

    30 JUL

    Tools Down, Lets Talk Mental Health in Construction with Steven Kirby

    In this moving episode of Onward Shift, host Vishal Narbheram sits down with Steven Kirby to confront a growing crisis—mental health in the construction industry. With suicide rates alarmingly high and mental health still a taboo topic on many sites, this conversation sheds light on the emotional struggles faced by thousands of workers across the UK. Steven shares his personal story, highlighting the power of vulnerability, storytelling, and human connection in an industry often defined by silence and stoicism. Together, they explore how banter culture and outdated views of masculinity can hinder open dialogue—and what it takes to create safer, more compassionate spaces on and off-site. You’ll hear practical tips around mental wellbeing, including daily gratitude, meditation, and how to push past the fear of seeking help. Whether you're on the tools or in leadership, this episode is a reminder that behind every hard hat is a human being—and every story matters. Key Takeaways: Mental health in construction is a critical and growing concern Anxiety, depression, and suicide impact thousands—yet many suffer in silence Companies must take responsibility for creating safe, supportive environments Storytelling and vulnerability can break down stigma and build trust Daily practices like gratitude and meditation are powerful tools for wellbeing Seeking help is not weakness—and one bad experience shouldn’t be the end Episode Chapters:00:00 Introduction to Mental Health in Construction 02:48 The Current State of Mental Health in Construction 05:35 Challenges Faced by Construction Workers 08:33 The Importance of Seeking Help 11:20 Breaking the Stigma Around Mental Health 14:17 Creating Safe Spaces in Construction 17:02 The Role of Companies in Mental Health Support 19:52 Changing the Culture in Construction 22:46 The Future of Mental Health in Construction 26:35 Navigating the Construction Industry 30:21 The Journey of Growth and Opportunity 34:22 Mental Health Awareness in Construction 39:03 The Power of Communication and Support 43:47 Transforming Negative Self-Talk 45:35 Transforming Negative Thoughts 46:45 The Power of Communication 48:41 Finding the Right Help 50:19 The Importance of Daily Practices 55:27 Gratitude as a Daily Practice 01:00:04 Advice for the Younger Generation 💬 Trigger Warning: This episode contains open discussions about mental health struggles, including suicidal ideation. Please listen with care. 🎙️ 𝐈𝐟 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐥𝐢𝐤𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐯𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐨, 𝐩𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐥𝐢𝐤𝐞 𝐢𝐭 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐬𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐢𝐭. 🎙️ 𝐃𝐨𝐧'𝐭 𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐠𝐞𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐬𝐮𝐛𝐬𝐜𝐫𝐢𝐛𝐞 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬. Follow Us On: - Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/onwardshift/⁠ - TikTok: ⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@onwardshift⁠ - LinkedIn Page: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/onward-shift/⁠ - Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/onwardshift/⁠ Find out more about Onward Shift and the mental health support we offer here- ⁠https://onwardshift.com⁠ Learn more about Steven Kirby here - https://sklifecoachuk.co.uk

    1h 6m
  7. Muscle to Misery - How Steroids Almost Killed me with Zac Wilkinson!

    16 JUL

    Muscle to Misery - How Steroids Almost Killed me with Zac Wilkinson!

    Episode Summary In this raw and eye-opening episode of The Onward Shift podcast, Zak Wilkinson opens up about his harrowing journey through steroid use, addiction and recovery. What started as a quest for the "perfect physique" at just 16 years old spiralled into a near-death experience that left Zak in a coma and forever changed his life. Zak sheds light on the mental and physical toll of steroids, the pressure young men face from social media-fuelled body image ideals and the stigma around mental health in male-dominated industries like construction and fitness. With honesty and courage, he speaks about the darkest moments of his addiction and the long, often painful, road back to health, purpose and self-respect. This episode is more than a warning it's a message of resilience, responsibility and hope for anyone facing similar struggles. Key Takeaways Steroid use is dangerously common among young men, especially in fitness and trades.The desire for fast, visible results can drive long-term addiction.Steroids have severe mental and physical side effects including life-threatening complications.Zak began using steroids at just 16 and ended up in a coma.Mental health is often overlooked in fitness culture and construction trades.Recovery is not linear but support, honesty and self-awareness are essential.Social media warps male body standards and fuels insecurities.Family support and mentorship play a key role in recovery.There is no failure only lessons. Episode Chapters 00:00 – Intro: The Steroid Epidemic02:49 – Steroids 101: The Benefits and Risks05:33 – Zak’s Story: From Curiosity to Dependency08:34 – The Coma: A Near-Death Reality Check11:14 – What Recovery Really Looks Like13:53 – Coaches, Accountability & Culture16:44 – Words to Young Men: Don’t Chase the Lie19:28 – Family, Forgiveness & Rebuilding Trust29:03 – Strength in Vulnerability: Fitness + Mental Health30:49 – Living with Mental Health Challenges33:58 – Mental Health Stigma in the Trades35:08 – Inside the Mind of Steroid Addiction37:27 – Instagram vs Reality: Body Image Today41:18 – Warning Signs of Steroid Abuse44:48 – Life After Addiction: Struggles & Progress48:19 – Spreading Awareness & Owning Your Story 🎙️ 𝐈𝐟 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐥𝐢𝐤𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐯𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐨, 𝐩𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐥𝐢𝐤𝐞 𝐢𝐭 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐬𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐢𝐭. 🎙️ 𝐃𝐨𝐧'𝐭 𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐠𝐞𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐬𝐮𝐛𝐬𝐜𝐫𝐢𝐛𝐞 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬. Follow Us On: - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/onwardshift/ - TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@onwardshift - LinkedIn Page: https://www.linkedin.com/company/onward-shift/ - Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/onwardshift/ Find out more about Onward Shift and the mental health support we offer here- https://onwardshift.com Learn more about Zach Wilkinson here - https://www.tiktok.com/@recoveryisnorace?lang=en-GB

    52 min
  8. Loneliness, Masculinity & Mental Health - A Raw Conversation with Will Hamilton

    2 JUL

    Loneliness, Masculinity & Mental Health - A Raw Conversation with Will Hamilton

    In this powerful second episode with counsellor Will Hamilton, Vishal dives deep into one of the most pressing issues facing men today: loneliness. With over 8 million men in the UK experiencing loneliness weekly, this conversation tackles the root causes, the societal pressures and what we can actually do to reconnect both with ourselves and others. Will explores the three types of loneliness emotional, social and environmental and explains how early childhood experiences, toxic role models, remote working and masculine norms can all contribute to this silent epidemic. From the construction site to the therapist’s chair, this episode brings hard truths, surprising insights and practical tools for men who feel stuck, isolated, or emotionally overwhelmed. Vishal and Will also unpack: Why male loneliness is often masked by addictions, workaholism and emotional shutdownsThe danger of not having real role models and how to become one yourselfThe importance of understanding your core values VS behavioursHow breathing techniques can diffuse anger in high stress momentsWhy emotional literacy is the key to building healthier connectionsHow small steps like walking or joining a local club can be life changing This is not just a conversation. It’s a lifeline. For men navigating silence, shame and the invisible weight of expectation this one’s for you. 💬 Trigger warning: This episode contains candid discussions about loneliness, mental health, and emotional distress. Please listen with care. Book a 1 to 1 session with Will here- https://onwardshift.com/counselling/person-centred-counsellors/will-hamilton-person-centred-counsellor/ 🎙️ 𝐈𝐟 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐥𝐢𝐤𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐯𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐨, 𝐩𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐥𝐢𝐤𝐞 𝐢𝐭 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐬𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐢𝐭. 🎙️ 𝐃𝐨𝐧'𝐭 𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐠𝐞𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐬𝐮𝐛𝐬𝐜𝐫𝐢𝐛𝐞 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬. Follow Us On: - Instagram: ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/onwardshift/⁠⁠ - TikTok: ⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@onwardshift⁠⁠ - LinkedIn Page: ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/onward-shift/⁠⁠ - Facebook: ⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/onwardshift/⁠⁠ Find out more about Onward Shift and the mental health support we offer here- ⁠⁠⁠https://onwardshift.com⁠⁠

    56 min
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About

Welcome to Onward Shift! Get ready to dive into a world of incredible transformations and inspiring stories! Our platform is your front-row seat to the remarkable journeys of individuals from all walks of life. Each episode is a deep dive into the lives of our guests, who bravely share their unique experiences, challenges, and victories alongside our host, motivating you to keep achieving your goals, be it moving forward or taking a step back! We delve into themes of personal growth, resilience, and innovation.

Information

  • Creator
    Onward Shift
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2025
  • Episodes
    40
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Onward Shift
  • Show Website
    Onward Shift