The Talking Tradesman

Russell Payne
  • 0.0 (0)
  • Mental Health
  • Updated Weekly

Raising mental health awareness throughout the uk building trades and beyond. Proving insight, knowledge and entertainment on a subject that needs attention and action.

  1. 21h ago

    The Conversation that Could Save a Life - Rose Rowkins on Suicide Prevention

    How to Talk About Suicide - Rose Rowkins on Prevention, Stigma & Saving LivesSuicide remains one of the biggest public health challenges we face, yet many of us still feel uncomfortable talking about it.In this powerful and essential episode of The Talking Tradesman Podcast, I sit down with Rose Rowkins, a psychotherapist, speaker, and suicide prevention specialist who has dedicated her career to helping people develop the confidence and skills needed to support those in crisis. Through her work delivering suicide prevention training and founding Start The Conversation, Rose has helped countless individuals and organisations understand how open, honest conversations can save lives. Find Rose here -https://www.instagram.com/start_the_conv?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==Together, we tackle one of society’s most difficult subjects.How do we recognise when someone is struggling? What do we say if we’re worried about a friend, colleague, family member, or workmate? Why are so many people still afraid to talk openly about suicide? And what role do all of us have in preventing it?Rose shares practical advice, real-world experience, and simple but powerful tools that can help anyone start these conversations with confidence. We explore the myths surrounding suicide, the warning signs that are often missed, and why asking direct questions could be the first step towards getting someone the support they need.We also discuss the unique challenges facing the construction industry, where stigma, isolation, and a culture of “getting on with it” can often stop people from speaking up when they’re struggling.This isn’t a conversation about having all the answers.It’s about understanding that you don’t need to be a therapist to make a difference. Sometimes the most important thing you can do is start the conversation.In this episode:* How to talk to someone you’re worried about* Suicide prevention myths and misconceptions* Recognising warning signs and risk factors* Why people often struggle in silence* Mental health and suicide in construction* Building confidence to have difficult conversations* Reducing stigma around suicide and mental health* Practical tools that could help save a lifeIf you’ve ever worried about someone but didn’t know what to say, this episode is for you.The conversation could feel uncomfortable.Not having it could cost far more.Chapters00:00 Understanding Suicide and Its Impact04:19 The Journey into Suicide Prevention08:47 The Role of Friends in Suicide Prevention10:36 Reaching In: A New Approach to Support15:03 The Importance of Starting Conversations15:34 First Aid for Mental Health20:49 The Reality of Suicidal Thoughts24:52 The Need for Honest Conversations31:51 Creating Safe Spaces in Communities35:34 The Ripple Effect of Suicide38:22 Support Systems for Survivors of Suicide41:42 Introduction and Setting the Stage43:20 Trusting Your Gut: Starting Conversations About Mental Health46:36 Tools for Talking About Suicide48:43 Navigating the Conversation: Where and When to Talk51:09 The Importance of Active Listening53:22 Understanding the Impact of Fixing vs. Listening55:56 Recognizing Signs of Distress Beyond Words59:25 The Role of Community in Mental Health01:01:48 Learning from the Past: Recognizing Signs of Distress01:03:40 The Need for Proactive Engagement01:14:38 Creating a Livable Life: Beyond Conversations01:18:38 Building Community Connections01:22:13 Honoring Those Lost: Speak Their Name Initiative

    1h 26m

  2. Jun 10

    From Childhood Trauma to Addiction ; Reece Ishmail's Powerful Recovery Story

    What happens when childhood trauma, addiction and self-destruction take over your life?In this powerful episode of The Talking Tradesman Podcast, I sit down with Reece, a roofer whose life journey has taken him through some of the darkest places imaginable before finding recovery, purpose and hope.Find Reece Here - https://www.instagram.com/annex_roofing?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==Growing up in an environment shaped by trauma and abuse, Reece found himself carrying emotional wounds long before he understood the impact they would have on his future. As the years passed, those unresolved struggles fuelled a battle with addiction that spiralled out of control, leading him down a path of substance abuse, mental health struggles, rehabilitation and complete rock bottom.Reece speaks openly and honestly about the reality of addiction, the lies it tells you, the relationships it destroys, and the devastating effect it can have on every area of your life. He shares what it was like living in active addiction, the moment he realised something had to change, and the difficult road that followed as he fought to rebuild himself from the ground up.Today, Reece lives a clean and sober life and uses his experiences to help others understand that recovery is possible, no matter how hopeless things may seem. His story is a powerful reminder that addiction is often the symptom, not the cause, and that healing starts when we’re willing to confront the things we’ve spent years trying to escape.This conversation explores childhood trauma, addiction recovery, sobriety, mental health, rehabilitation, resilience, personal growth, men’s mental health and the life-changing power of speaking openly about our struggles.Whether you’ve battled addiction yourself, supported a loved one through recovery, or simply want to hear an incredible story of resilience and transformation, this is an episode you won’t forget.Topics Covered:✅ Childhood trauma and abuse✅ Addiction and substance abuse✅ Drug recovery and rehabilitation✅ Mental health and men’s mental health✅ Sobriety and staying clean✅ The impact of unresolved trauma✅ Recovery after rock bottom✅ Personal growth and resilience✅ Construction industry mental health✅ Finding purpose after addictionIf this episode helps you, inspires you, or makes you think differently about addiction and recovery, please share it. You never know who might need to hear this story today.Chapters00:00 Childhood and Family Dynamics01:12 The Impact of Abuse and Dysfunction04:25 Transition to Wales and New Challenges07:24 School Life and Behavioral Changes10:26 Early Encounters with Drugs13:32 Finding Stability in Work and Family16:24 The Role of Substance Use in Adolescence19:23 Reflections on Addiction and Recovery25:53 The Social Acceptance of Alcohol vs. Drugs28:23 Personal Experiences with Alcohol and Drug Use31:56 The Progression of Addiction and Its Impact35:08 Recognizing the Problem and Seeking Help39:41 The Turning Point: Entering Rehabilitation51:21 The Journey of Recovery and Finding Hope01:04:15 The Power of Conversation and Mental Health01:07:54 Breaking Down Barriers: Sharing Personal Stories01:10:24 Finding Freedom: Life After Addiction01:14:59 Rebuilding Relationships and Finding Purpose01:17:29 The Importance of Purpose in Sobriety01:22:12 Cultural Norms and the Need for Change01:25:30 The Role of Community in Recovery01:30:44 Generational Patterns and Emotional Awareness

    1h 39m

  3. Jun 2

    From Bosnian War Survivor To Casino Heist Mastermind & Federal Prison - Adnan Alisic

    In one of the most unbelievable stories ever told on The Talking Tradesman Podcast, Adnan Alisic shares his journey from surviving the brutal Bosnian War to becoming the mastermind behind one of America’s most audacious casino heists.Find Adnan Here - https://www.instagram.com/alisicadnan?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==https://www.facebook.com/alisicadnanauthorAs a child, Adnan witnessed the horrors of war in Bosnia, experienced ethnic cleansing, violence, and unimaginable trauma before arriving in the United States as a refugee with nothing. Through relentless determination, he built successful businesses, achieved the American Dream, and created a life many people would envy.But behind the success was a growing gambling addiction that spiralled out of control.After losing hundreds of thousands of dollars at the blackjack tables, Adnan became obsessed with getting his money back. What followed was an elaborate, Hollywood-style casino heist involving underground tunnels, fake weapons, smoke bombs, getaway vehicles, months of planning, and a daring attempt to steal millions from an armored cash delivery outside Casino Arizona. The robbery made international headlines.The plan failed.Adnan was arrested, convicted in federal court, and sentenced to 17 years in a US federal prison. In this powerful conversation, Adnan opens up about prison, faith, redemption, gambling addiction, trauma, personal responsibility, and how he rebuilt himself after losing everything.This isn’t just a story about crime.It’s a story about survival, obsession, consequences, resilience, and finding peace after destruction.Topics include:* The Bosnian War and growing up as a refugee* Building successful businesses in America* Gambling addiction and self-destruction* The Casino Arizona armored truck heist* Federal prison life* Faith, redemption and personal growth* Life after prison* Lessons from losing everythingIf you’re interested in true crime, prison stories, gambling addiction recovery, redemption stories, entrepreneurship, resilience, or powerful real-life journeys, this is an episode you won’t forget.You can Find Adnan's book here -https://tinyurl.com/Arizona-DreamChapters00:00 The Gambler's Journey Begins03:26 Escaping War-Torn Bosnia06:12 Adapting to a New Life in America09:13 Building a Business Empire12:20 The Descent into Gambling Addiction15:11 The Casino Heist: A Turning Point18:11 Planning the Heist21:13 The Execution of the Plan34:32 Planning the Casino Heist38:56 The Shift in Strategy41:08 The Day of the Heist53:35 Executing the Plan01:06:48 The Aftermath and Escape01:15:25 The Heist: A Plan Gone Awry01:18:34 The Chase: A Desperate Escape01:22:30 The Calm Before the Storm: Facing the SWAT Team01:26:00 A Miraculous Escape: Slipping Through the Cracks01:33:32 The Aftermath: Consequences of the Heist01:37:09 Facing Justice: The Reality of Sentencing01:44:43 Life in Prison: Surviving the System01:52:26 Returning Home: Adjusting to Life After Prison01:56:04 Finding Redemption: Overcoming Addiction

    1h 59m

  4. May 26

    Pain, Bipolar & Everest Base Camp - Steve Macfarlane Talks About The Challenge Ahead

    From serving in the military to building a successful painting business, Steve Macfarlane, owner of Cotswold Painters opens up about the highs, the lows, and the battles most people never see.Find Steve here -https://www.instagram.com/cotswold_painters?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==In this powerful episode, Steve shares his journey through bipolar disorder, the pressures of the trades, and why he’s now pushing himself to the limit with an incredible challenge in Nepal, trekking to Everest Base Camp and taking on four peaks to raise money for The Lost City.Support here - https://www.justgiving.com/page/steve-macfarlane-3?utm_medium=FA&utm_source=CL&utm_content=link_in_bio&fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQPOTM2NjE5NzQzMzkyNDU5AAGnWFD-e00C9S_2Ma7bqd95dXyEIGVGvnTRYdlmYXdKpE_KpD02kMlnhCvnsRE_aem_LlcO_QcDvFVjE6ebpnncrAThis conversation dives into mental health, resilience, purpose, and the importance of having people around you when life gets heavy.A raw and honest discussion about:• Military life and transition into the trades• Building a successful decorating business• Living with bipolar disorder• Mental health in construction• Brotherhood, community and purpose• The Everest Base Camp challenge in Nepal• Raising funds for charity through extreme enduranceSome conversations matter more than numbers. This is one of them.Chapters00:00 The Challenge of Climbing Everest06:02 Mental Health and Charity Work12:13 The Joy of Walking and Hiking13:51 Understanding Bipolar Disorder15:49 Navigating Life with Bipolar Disorder18:56 The Importance of Physical Exercise20:53 Meditation and Mindfulness through Physical Activity22:42 Taking Small Steps for Mental Health24:40 The Connection Between Nature and Mental Well-being26:48 Building Relationships through Shared Activities28:50 The Journey of Starting a Business30:55 Scaling a Business in Challenging Times36:54 Building a Strong Team and Leadership Challenges40:01 Navigating Mental Health in the Workplace43:24 Raising Awareness and Taking Action on Mental Health48:54 The Importance of Mentorship and Skill Development53:36 Future Growth and Managing Work-Life Balance58:55 Understanding Loneliness and Community in Construction01:03:42 Finding Support and Building Connections

    1h 11m

  5. May 5

    From ADHD to Business Owner - Burnout, Pressure and Finding Your Path - Lewis Coomber

    In this episode, Lewis Coomber shares his journey from a disruptive, misunderstood kid navigating ADHD to finding his place in the painting and decorating trade.Find Lewis here -https://www.instagram.com/l.c.painters?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==We talk openly about how the traditional education system didn’t work for him, but how the structure, routine, and hands-on nature of the trades gave him something to channel his energy into.Lewis also opens up about what’s happened more recently. Starting his own business just two years ago, settling into family life, and the pressure that comes with trying to make it all work at once. We get into the reality behind running a trade business. The long hours, working seven-day weeks, burnout, cash flow pressure, and the ongoing challenge of finding people you can trust to represent your name.This is an honest conversation about growth, responsibility, and figuring things out as you go. The highs, the lows, and everything in between.If you’ve ever struggled to fit the mould, or you’re in the thick of building something yourself, there’ll be something in this episode for you.Thanks to our Episode Sponsors Monarch - www.monarchpainting.co.uk Branded By Sammi - Guest Merch

    1h 27m

  6. Apr 21

    Stabbed 18 Times, 6 Years in Prison...But That Wasn't His Biggest Battle - Jacob Butchoff

    This one is hard to believe… but every word of it is true.Jacob Butchoff opens up about a life that spiralled through gang violence, identity battles, and extreme trauma… long before he ever faced the truth about who he really was.Find Jacob here -https://www.instagram.com/jacobcharlesthomas?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==We’re talking about:• Being stabbed 18 times• Getting pulled into gangs and violent crime• A restaurant attack that made national headlines• Six years in prison• Addiction and rock bottom momentsBut underneath all of that… was something deeper.A young man struggling with his identity.Jacob shares what it was really like growing up hiding the truth about being gay, the pressure to fit into environments where vulnerability gets you eaten alive, and how that internal conflict pushed him further into chaos.Then there’s the part that sounds unreal…He was adopted and told his parents died in a car crash in Paraguay…Only to later discover they were alive.And he had siblings.That moment alone changes everything.This episode goes way beyond a typical “redemption story.”It’s about truth.It’s about identity.It’s about what happens when you finally stop pretending.Now, after prison, addiction, and years of running… Jacob is living openly as a gay man, owning who he is, and working inside the prison system helping young people avoid the path he went down.No filters. No sugarcoating. Just real life.If you think you’ve heard it all… you haven’t heard this.🎧 Full episode available now on all platforms.Thanks to this episodes sponsorsMonarch - www.monarchpainting.co.uk Chapters00:00 Introduction to Jacob Butchoff04:43 Struggles with Identity and Belonging10:05 Gang Involvement and Self-Destruction20:39 The Impact of Privilege and Expectations29:36 Finding Strength in Vulnerability36:44 The Journey of Self-Discovery42:28 Mental Health and Overcoming Challenges47:45 The Complexity of Masculinity and Violence53:19 Consequences of Violence and Regret59:46 The Journey of Growth and Redemption01:06:54 Navigating Relationships and Self-Discovery01:13:53 Finding Purpose in Trauma and Helping Others01:20:39 Descent into Self-Destruction01:26:59 Unexpected Reconnection with Birth Family01:35:46 Finding Strength in Family Bonds01:42:36 Coming Out and Family Acceptance01:46:02 Turning Pain into Purpose01:52:42 The Restaurant Encounter: A Turning Point01:58:11 The Aftermath of Violence: Reflection and Regret02:05:04 Life in Prison: Adaptation and Survival02:16:21 The Flaws of the Prison System02:22:12 Navigating Gang Culture in Prison02:27:27 The Power of Vulnerability and Sharing Stories02:36:09 Redefining Strength and Masculinity02:41:55 The Journey of Personal Growth and Emotional Intelligence02:49:58 Finding Purpose Through Parenthood and Community Engagement

    2h 59m

  7. Apr 7

    From School Struggles To Success in The Trades - Lucy & Jack on Apprenticeships, Business and Breaking Steriotypes

    What if school isn’t the path… but success still is?In this episode, I sit down with Jack and Lucy from Thomas & Co. to talk about building a life in the trades by going against the grain.Jack opens up about struggling in school, not fitting the academic system, and how he turned that into fuel to build a successful business in the construction industry. This is a real conversation about finding your lane when the traditional route doesn’t work.Lucy’s story flips another stereotype on its head. She went straight from school into a joinery apprenticeship and is now working hands-on in a male-dominated industry as a female joiner. No shortcuts, no excuses… just skill, graft, and consistency.Together, they share what it’s really like running a business as a couple in the trades. The pressures, the dynamics, the support, and how they’ve made it work without losing themselves in the process.We also get into: • Why the trades are still overlooked as a career path • The truth about apprenticeships vs university • Social media and building a brand in construction • Mental health in the trades and handling pressure • Inspiring the next generation to pick up toolsThis is for anyone who’s ever felt like they didn’t fit the system… and decided to build their own instead.🎙️ Full episode of The Talking Tradesman Podcast available now on all platforms. Episode Sponsored by Monarch ! www.monarchpainting.co.uk Chapters00:00 Breaking Stereotypes in Trades04:28 Education and Its Impact on Career Choices10:56 Navigating Gender Dynamics in the Trade17:46 The Importance of Support in Relationships23:55 The Dynamics of Working as a Couple29:45 Passion and Commitment in the Trade41:38 The Dynamics of Working Together as a Couple46:09 Navigating Challenges in a Joint Business48:39 Addressing Discrimination in the Workplace50:54 Building a Supportive Community54:49 The Importance of Quality in Craftsmanship01:00:01 Adapting to Modern Techniques and Materials01:04:02 Understanding Client Expectations and Trust01:09:09 The Role of Gender in the Trades01:13:56 Confronting Bias and Misconceptions in the Industry01:16:08 Navigating Gender Dynamics in the Trades01:18:19 The Importance of Support and Community01:20:33 The Reality of Friendship and Support01:22:38 The Journey to Success and Recognition01:24:18 Building a Business with Integrity01:27:43 Customer Relationships and Expectations01:29:58 The Passion Behind the Craft01:33:17 Encouraging Women in the Trades01:35:05 Mentorship and Guidance for Future Generations01:38:57 The Value of Real-World Experience01:41:25 Challenging Academic Norms01:43:24 The Lifelong Skills of Trades01:46:08 Mental Health in the Construction Industry01:50:50 The Human Element in Business01:55:22 Navigating School Challenges and Parental Support01:57:53 The Impact of Bullying and Trauma02:02:17 Supporting Young Creators and Mental Health02:03:36 The Importance of Mental Health Awareness02:07:21 Embracing Change and Career Transitions02:13:35 The Value of Hard Work and Resilience02:20:54 Empowering the Next Generation in Trades

    2h 28m

  8. Mar 31

    From Abuse & PTSD To Purpose - The mindset Soldiers Story, Dave Smith

    Dave Smith, better known as The Mindset Soldier, joins me for one of the most raw and powerful conversations we’ve had on the podcast.Find Him here - https://www.instagram.com/mindset.soldier?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==Behind the growing social media following and daily mindset content is a story most people never see. Dave is an abuse survivor, a former soldier, and someone who has battled PTSD, homelessness, and addiction—experiences that could have easily broken him. Instead, they became the foundation for the mindset he now teaches.In this episode, Dave opens up about growing up in the care system, the impact of early trauma, and how those experiences followed him into adulthood and military life. We talk honestly about PTSD, mental health struggles, and the reality many veterans face long after leaving service. But this isn’t just about what he’s been through—it’s about what he’s built from it.Now known online as The Mindset Soldier, Dave uses his platform to share powerful messages around discipline, resilience, accountability, and faith—helping thousands of people reframe their mindset and take control of their lives. We get into: • Why your past doesn’t have to define your future • The truth about trauma and how it shapes your mindset • The role of accountability in rebuilding your life • Faith, purpose, and finding meaning after rock bottom • Why vulnerability is a strength, not a weaknessThis is a deep, honest conversation about hitting rock bottom, taking ownership, and rebuilding yourself from the ground up.If you’ve ever struggled mentally, questioned your direction, or felt stuck in your past—this one will hit home.Thanks to our episode sponsors - Monarch www.monarch painting.co.uk

    2h 5m
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About

Raising mental health awareness throughout the uk building trades and beyond. Proving insight, knowledge and entertainment on a subject that needs attention and action.

Information

  • Creator
    Russell Payne
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    140
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Russell Payne
  • Show Website
    The Talking Tradesman

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