Hard Hats and Head Space with Stuart Wallis

Stuart Wallis

Join me and my guests as we talk about work, wellbeing and the workforce - without the nonsense! Stuart will be joined by his vast network from across his career, bringing forward interesting and inspiring guests who have the most vast wealth of experience. Sometimes controversial, Stuart and his guests will explore elements of life that will inspire you to learn more. From Construction, to recruitment through to egg-farming and authors, there is going to be something for everyone on this journey!

  1. Jan 5 ·  Bonus

    Happy New Year - Danny Mac Special

    Filmed over the Christmas Break, Stuart got together with his friend Danny MacMillan, proprietor of the Mac's Farm in Ditchling, for a chat about the pressures of running a business, working 24/7 as a farmer and how the pressure of being the lead, the fixer and the chicken farmer got to him - and how he has come out of the other side. This is a special New Year's Episode!! Stuart will be back in February with Season 2 in full swing. You can find out more about the Mac's Farm on their website

    53 min

  2. 12/16/2025

    Episode 22 - 2025 Recap!

    Here is a look back at Stuart's 2025 on the first season of Hard Hats & Headspace. Wishing everyone all the best for Christmas, and Health, Wealth & Happiness in 2026!

    16 min
  3. Episode 21 - HS Trimmers - "You don't have to love 'em to care"

    11/19/2025

    Episode 21 - HS Trimmers - "You don't have to love 'em to care"

    Summary In this episode, Stuart and his colleagues Johnno, Colin and Thomas discuss their involvement in Movember, a movement to raise awareness and funds for men's health issues, particularly prostate cancer. They share personal stories, including Colin's experience with prostate cancer and the importance of early detection through PSA testing. The conversation highlights the impact of Movember on mental health awareness and the need for continuous advocacy and action. Key Takeaways Movember raises awareness for men's health issues.Early detection of prostate cancer is crucial.PSA testing can save lives.Movember also focuses on mental health.Colin shares his personal cancer journey.Awareness leads to action and prevention.Movember includes both men and women.The movement has grown over the years.Personal stories drive the message home.Community involvement is key to success. Stuart's Movember Page https://movember.com/m/stuartwallis77?mc=1 HS Trimmers Movember Page https://movember.com/t/ocp-trimmers?mc=1

    35 min
  4. Episode 20 - Empowering Voices: Quality Culture in Construction - World Quality Week 2025

    11/12/2025

    Episode 20 - Empowering Voices: Quality Culture in Construction - World Quality Week 2025

    **Summary:** In this episode of Hard Hats and Headspace, host Stuart Wallis explores the theme of quality in construction, particularly in the context of World Quality Week 2025. The discussion challenges the notion that quality is merely about compliance and paperwork, emphasizing its role in creating safe and supportive environments. Guests from Mace, including Russell Lawler, Emma Quinnell Spencer, and Stavroula Mastorodimu, share their diverse experiences and insights on how quality intersects with health and safety, and the importance of learning from past incidents like Grenfell and Piper Alpha. The conversation also highlights the need for a cultural shift towards quality and the role of neurodiversity in enhancing workplace practices. Key Takeaways Quality is not just about compliance; it's about care and creating supportive environments.Learning from past incidents like Grenfell is crucial for improving safety and quality.Quality intersects deeply with health and safety, influencing workplace culture.Neurodiversity can enhance workplace practices and should be embraced.A cultural shift towards prioritizing quality is necessary in the construction industry.Quality should be considered from the start of a project, not just during execution.Empowering workers to speak up about quality issues is vital for improvement.Continuous improvement and learning should be integral to construction practices.Quality Week 2025 encourages thinking differently about quality in construction.The role of leadership is crucial in fostering a culture of quality and safety. Keywords: construction, quality, safety, World Quality Week, MACE, Grenfell, Piper Alpha, neurodiversity, workplace culture, health and safetyTakeaways:

    1 hr
  5. Episode 19 - Steve Kirby- From the Digger to Life Coach: Steve Kirby's Story

    11/05/2025

    Episode 19 - Steve Kirby- From the Digger to Life Coach: Steve Kirby's Story

    Takeaways Steve transitioned from construction to life coaching after a life-altering incident. He emphasizes the importance of mental health awareness in the construction industry. Steve's accident led to a deep exploration of his mental health struggles. Therapy played a crucial role in Steve's recovery journey. Mindfulness and meditation helped Steve manage his anxiety and PTSD. He believes in the power of personal stories to inspire others. Steve advocates for open discussions about mental health, especially among men. He encourages individuals to take control of their narratives and beliefs. Steve's journey highlights the importance of resilience and self-belief. He aims to help others through coaching and sharing his experiences. Summary In this episode, Stuart Wallis interviews Steve Kirby, a former construction worker turned life coach, who shares his transformative journey following a life-threatening incident on the job. Steve discusses his early career in construction, the traumatic accident that changed his life, and the subsequent struggles with mental health. He emphasizes the importance of therapy, mindfulness, and self-belief in his recovery process. Through his experiences, Steve aims to inspire others to share their stories and prioritize mental health, particularly in the construction industry. He advocates for open discussions about mental health and encourages individuals to take control of their narratives and beliefs. Sound bites "I left school with no GCSEs." "I was trapped underwater." "I was broken by that point." Keywords Steve Kirby, life coaching, mental health, construction, mindfulness, recovery, personal development, trauma, resilience, storytelling Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Steve Kirby's Journey 02:52 From Construction to Life Coaching 05:27 The Incident: A Life-Changing Moment 10:14 The Aftermath: Physical and Mental Struggles 16:41 The Path to Recovery and Self-Discovery 22:36 Helping Others: The Birth of SK Life Coach UK 33:10 The Struggle with Mental Health 37:20 The Journey to Seeking Help 38:16 Understanding Trauma and Therapy 44:42 The Power of Mindfulness and Meditation 48:46 The Connection Between Stress and Illness 53:13 Believing in Yourself and Manifestation 57:41 Transforming Pain into Purpose

    58 min
  6. Episode 18 - The need for Health to match Safety - Jennie Armstrong

    10/29/2025

    Episode 18 - The need for Health to match Safety - Jennie Armstrong

    Links https://constructionhealth.co.uk/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniearmstrong/ Keywords mental health, anxiety, depression, work, well-being, open conversations, diagnosis, support Summary In this conversation, Stuart discusses his experiences with mental health challenges with Jennie Armstrong, Founder of Construction Health & Wellbeing Ltd. The conversation covers many areas of health - physical and mental - including anxiety and depression. They reflect on the importance of work in maintaining Stuart's mental well-being and emphasize the need for open conversations about mental health, particularly in the workplace. Takeaways Stuart was diagnosed with anxiety and depression. Jennie discusses the need for Health given equal billing in the budget as safety. Jennie felt that Tideway Tunnels wanted to be different and set new standards with the Epic Induction. Stuart's job has been a crucial factor in maintaining his sanity. He reflects on the societal expectations around mental health. There is a need for more open conversations about mental health. Stuart felt relief upon receiving his diagnosis. He questions whether others are truly okay in their mental health. Work can be both a source of stress and a support system. The stigma around mental health can prevent people from seeking help. Conversations about mental health should be normalized. Support from colleagues can make a significant difference. Sound bites "I felt relief of being diagnosed." "But I love my job, my job's keeping me sane." "Are you sure you're all right?"

    42 min
  7. Episode 17 - Robert Seaward - Sparking Resilience

    10/22/2025

    Episode 17 - Robert Seaward - Sparking Resilience

    Summary In this episode of Hard Hats and Headspace, host Stuart interviews Robert Seaward, an electrical estimator at Heathrow with an inspiring story of resilience. Robert shares his journey from hospitality management to becoming an electrician, and his unexpected battle with brain cancer. Despite the challenges, Robert's positive mindset and determination to live life to the fullest shine through as he discusses his experiences with surgery, chemotherapy, and setting a world record for the longest bike ride on chemotherapy. Keywords resilience, brain cancer, electrical estimator, positive mindset, world record Takeaways Robert Seaward's journey from hospitality to electrical estimation.The unexpected diagnosis of brain cancer and its impact.Robert's resilience and positive mindset throughout his treatment.The importance of staying physically active during cancer treatment.Robert's world record attempt for the longest bike ride on chemotherapy.The role of family support in Robert's journey.The significance of faith and positivity in overcoming challenges.Robert's advocacy for brain tumor research and awareness.The mental and physical benefits of exercise during cancer treatment.Robert's future plans to inspire others through cycling and positivity Links - ⁠https://www.tiktok.com/discover/robneverquits⁠ ⁠https://www.brainstormcharity.co.uk

    52 min
  8. Episode 16 - From Electrician to Advocate: Steve Walsh's Journey

    10/08/2025

    Episode 16 - From Electrician to Advocate: Steve Walsh's Journey

    Summary In this episode of Hard Hats and Headspace, Stuart Wallis welcomes his lifelong friend Steve Walsh, an electrician and mental health advocate. They discuss Steve's career journey, his contributions to mental health awareness in the construction industry, and his recent recognition with the Wiles Award. The conversation highlights the importance of mental health support, personal growth, and the impact of mentorship, mental health, construction industry, electrician, and being recognised for his work with the Mates in Mind 2025 Wiles Award. Key topics include: Steve Walsh's journey from electrician to mental health advocate.The significance of the Wiles Award in the construction industry.How mentorship shaped Steve's career.The role of mental health support in personal growth.Steve's candid discussion on overcoming personal challenges.The impact of open conversations on mental health awareness.Stuart and Steve's lifelong friendship and professional collaboration.The importance of recognizing and addressing mental health issues.Steve's advice on not selling oneself short.The value of talking therapies and seeking help. Sound bites "Steve Walsh's journey from electrician to advocate." "The Wiles Award: A high honor in construction." "Mentorship shaped my career path." "Mental health support is crucial for growth." "Open conversations can change lives." "Don't sell yourself short, ever." "Talking therapies made a difference." "Recognize and address mental health issues." "A lifelong friendship in construction." "Championing mental health in the industry."

    56 min
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About

Join me and my guests as we talk about work, wellbeing and the workforce - without the nonsense! Stuart will be joined by his vast network from across his career, bringing forward interesting and inspiring guests who have the most vast wealth of experience. Sometimes controversial, Stuart and his guests will explore elements of life that will inspire you to learn more. From Construction, to recruitment through to egg-farming and authors, there is going to be something for everyone on this journey!

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