Mindfulness for Construction Workers: Does It Really Work? (Real Stories)

Your gut might be affecting your mood more than you think. In this episode of Built 4 Us, the podcast for construction workers by construction workers, we explore the link between gut health and mental health with wellbeing coach and former personal trainer Jon Burgess, joined by regulars Clive and Stevie. Jon shares how IBS, poor skin and burnout led him to overhaul his own gut health, and how that changed his mood, energy and mental clarity. Clive talks openly about his own experience of painkillers and gut problems, and we talk about what the typical construction day of energy drinks, takeaway lunches and a few beers can do to your body. In this episode: What the gut microbiome is and why it matters Signs your gut needs attention: bloating, acid reflux and discomfort after meals How stress and food both play a part Why small daily changes beat a crash diet The gut-brain connection and the vagus nerve  Why you shouldn't ignore a niggle, and when to speak to your GP    Connect with John Burgess: 🌐 www.jonburgesswellbeing.co.uk 💼 LinkedIn: Jon Burgess 📘 Facebook: Jon Burgess Wellbeing 📸 Instagram: Jon C. Burgess. If this episode helped, subscribe and share it with a mate on site. This episode is for information and discussion only and isn't medical advice. If you're worried about your health, speak to your GP 💪Support & Resources  If anything discussed in this episode resonates with you or someone you know, please reach out: - Samaritans (UK): Call 116 123 (free, 24/7) ​  - Mind: mind.org.uk / 0300 123 3393 ​ - Construction Industry Helpline: constructionindustryhelpline.com / 0345 605 1956 💥To locate mental health support in your area, search The Hub of Hope https://hubofhope.co.uk/ 💥Free 24/7 Emotional, Physical & Financial Wellbeing Support for Construction Workers & their Families Home - Lighthouse Charity 💪Listen, share, and help break the silence. You never know who might need to hear this today. 🛠️ This isn't just a podcast — it's a community. 💪Let's build something stronger together. 👉 Follow us on: 📷 Instagram — Built4Us Podcast: https://www.instagram.com/built4us_podcast 📘 Facebook — Built4Us Podcast: https://www.facebook.com/share/1E1HUW2z8h/ ▶️ YouTube — Built4Us Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@BUILT4US_PODCAST 🛠️Produced by Tim Roe of Courageous_Productions 💪Proudly Powered by JT MOTIV 💪Proudly sponsored by CHPK GROUP

Ben and James are back to have an open and meaningful conversation about the powerful benefits that exercising gratitude can have on our mental health and well-being.   Support & Resources   If anything discussed in this episode resonates with you or someone you know, please reach out:   - Samaritans (UK): Call 116 123 (free, 24/7) ​ - Mind: mind.org.uk / 0300 123 3393 ​ - Construction Industry Helpline: constructionindustryhelpline.com / 0345 605 1956   Listen, share, and help break the silence. You never know who might need to hear this today. 🛠️ This isn't just a podcast — it's a community. 💪Let's build something stronger together. 👉 Follow us on: 📸 Instagram: @built4uspodcast 🎧 TikTok: @built4uspodcast ▶️ YouTube: @built4uspodcast 🎙️ Spotify / Apple Podcasts: BUILT4US Podcast Facebook: Built4us Podcast  UK BASED SUPPORT: 💥If you or anyone you care about is struggling with their mental health, reach out for support: If it's an emergency- ring 999 💥If you want to speak to someone, call The Samaritans on 116 123 💥To locate mental health support in your area, search The Hub of Hope https://hubofhope.co.uk/ 💥Free 24/7 Emotional, Physical & Financial Wellbeing Support for Construction Workers & their Families Home - Lighthouse Charity 🛠️Produced by Tim Roe of Courageous_Productions  💪Proudly Powered by JT MOTIV 💪Proudly sponsored by CHPK GROUP

Ben, Stevie and Andy return for an honest, no-nonsense chat about mindfulness – what it actually is, whether it works, what it means to different people, and how it can help those working in construction and trades.   In this episode we cover:  What mindfulness really is (no jargon, just plain talk)  Does it actually work – or is it just hype?  Why mindfulness means different things to different people  Stevie's story: how he completely dismissed mindfulness at first – until it changed his life for good  Ben shares how it's helped calm his nerves before stepping on stage  Andy's funny take: cocktail sausage mishaps + how riding his bike is his perfect version of mindfulness  Simple ways to find your own version of mindfulness, even on busy site days   Support & Resources   If anything discussed in this episode resonates with you or someone you know, please reach out:   - Samaritans (UK): Call 116 123 (free, 24/7) ​ - Mind: mind.org.uk / 0300 123 3393 ​ - Construction Industry Helpline: constructionindustryhelpline.com / 0345 605 1956   Listen, share, and help break the silence. You never know who might need to hear this today. 🛠️ This isn't just a podcast — it's a community. 💪Let's build something stronger together. 👉 Follow us on: 📸 Instagram: @built4uspodcast 🎧 TikTok: @built4uspodcast ▶️ YouTube: @built4uspodcast 🎙️ Spotify / Apple Podcasts: BUILT4US Podcast Facebook: Built4us Podcast  UK BASED SUPPORT: 💥If you or anyone you care about is struggling with their mental health, reach out for support: If it's an emergency- ring 999 💥If you want to speak to someone, call The Samaritans on 116 123 💥To locate mental health support in your area, search The Hub of Hope https://hubofhope.co.uk/ 💥Free 24/7 Emotional, Physical & Financial Wellbeing Support for Construction Workers & their Families Home - Lighthouse Charity 🛠️Produced by Tim Roe of Courageous_Productions  💪Proudly Powered by JT MOTIV 💪Proudly sponsored by CHPK GROUP

This time on BUILT4US, we're talking about how showing up for each other builds confidence, opens doors, and changes lives — no scripts, no fluff, just real talk .   We're joined by Ben, who shares how joining Andy's Man Club gave him the confidence to step out and pursue professional comedy — turning personal support into a whole new career path. Then Andy, founder of men's group The Mangang, breaks down exactly what happens in these spaces, what you can actually expect, and why every man owes it to himself to give it a go. Plus mental health advocate and coach Stevie adds why real social contact and connection are the foundation of better mental wellbeing — especially for those of us who spend our days building the world around us .   What we cover:  How peer support boosted confidence and unlocked new opportunities  What really goes on in men's groups — no awkwardness, just honest conversation  Why connection is one of the strongest tools we have for mental health  Breaking the stigma around asking for help and showing up together  First steps to find a group that works for you   Support & Resources   If anything discussed in this episode resonates with you or someone you know, please reach out:   - Samaritans (UK): Call 116 123 (free, 24/7) ​ - Mind: mind.org.uk / 0300 123 3393 ​ - Construction Industry Helpline: constructionindustryhelpline.com / 0345 605 1956   Listen, share, and help break the silence. You never know who might need to hear this today. 🛠️ This isn't just a podcast — it's a community. 💪Let's build something stronger together. 👉 Follow us on: 📸 Instagram: @built4uspodcast 🎧 TikTok: @built4uspodcast ▶️ YouTube: @built4uspodcast 🎙️ Spotify / Apple Podcasts: BUILT4US Podcast Facebook: Built4us Podcast  UK BASED SUPPORT: 💥If you or anyone you care about is struggling with their mental health, reach out for support: If it's an emergency- ring 999 💥If you want to speak to someone, call The Samaritans on 116 123 💥To locate mental health support in your area, search The Hub of Hope https://hubofhope.co.uk/ 💥Free 24/7 Emotional, Physical & Financial Wellbeing Support for Construction Workers & their Families Home - Lighthouse Charity 🛠️Produced by Tim Roe of Courageous_Productions  💪Proudly Powered by JT MOTIV 💪Proudly sponsored by CHPK GROUP

Ben, Stevie and Andy are back to chat about the ongoing UK heatwave and its effects on construction workers and tradespeople's mental and physical health.   What we cover:  How extreme heat affects your body – dehydration, fatigue, heat exhaustion and heat stroke  The hidden impact: how high temperatures raise stress, irritability and mental strain  Practical on-site safety tips: rest breaks, hydration, clothing, and work scheduling  Simple ways to stay cool and look after your wellbeing when you get home  Why looking out for your workmates matters more in hot weather Advice to help you stay safe, focused and healthy through the heat   Support & Resources   If anything discussed in this episode resonates with you or someone you know, please reach out:   - Samaritans (UK): Call 116 123 (free, 24/7) ​ - Mind: mind.org.uk / 0300 123 3393 ​ - Construction Industry Helpline: constructionindustryhelpline.com / 0345 605 1956   Listen, share, and help break the silence. You never know who might need to hear this today. 🛠️ This isn't just a podcast — it's a community. 💪Let's build something stronger together. 👉 Follow us on: 📸 Instagram: @built4uspodcast 🎧 TikTok: @built4uspodcast ▶️ YouTube: @built4uspodcast 🎙️ Spotify / Apple Podcasts: BUILT4US Podcast Facebook: Built4us Podcast  UK BASED SUPPORT: 💥If you or anyone you care about is struggling with their mental health, reach out for support: If it's an emergency- ring 999 💥If you want to speak to someone, call The Samaritans on 116 123 💥To locate mental health support in your area, search The Hub of Hope https://hubofhope.co.uk/ 💥Free 24/7 Emotional, Physical & Financial Wellbeing Support for Construction Workers & their Families Home - Lighthouse Charity 🛠️Produced by Tim Roe of Courageous_Productions  💪Proudly Powered by JT MOTIV   💪Proudly sponsored by CHPK GROUP    

In this deeply honest and open episode, Stevie, Ben, and Andy come together to share the conversations they wish they'd had sooner — and how speaking up changed the course of their lives. - Stevie & Ben open up about their personal mental health journeys, including the decision to start therapy. They explain what led them to seek support, how therapy helped them process long-held struggles, and why normalising this step is so important, especially in traditionally tough environments like construction. ​ - Andy shares his experience living with bipolar disorder and depression, including times he felt suicidal. He also recounts the devastating moment he received news that a close friend had died by suicide — a tragedy that became the driving force behind his work supporting mental health in the construction industry and men's group, MANGANG. ​ - The episode explores how silence can make struggles heavier, while one honest conversation can save lives. It breaks down stigma, highlights that asking for help is not a sign of weakness, and reminds listeners that support is always available.    Key Takeaways    Early conversations prevent struggles from escalating  Therapy can be life-changing — it's never too soon to start  Living with bipolar disorder and depression brings unique challenges, but recovery and stability are possible  Personal loss can turn into powerful motivation to help others Mental health support is vital in construction and other high-pressure sectors    Support & Resources   If anything discussed in this episode resonates with you or someone you know, please reach out:   - Samaritans (UK): Call 116 123 (free, 24/7) ​ - Mind: mind.org.uk / 0300 123 3393 ​ - Construction Industry Helpline: constructionindustryhelpline.com / 0345 605 1956   Listen, share, and help break the silence. You never know who might need to hear this today. 🛠️ This isn't just a podcast — it's a community. 💪Let's build something stronger together. 👉 Follow us on: 📸 Instagram: @built4uspodcast 🎧 TikTok: @built4uspodcast ▶️ YouTube: @built4uspodcast 🎙️ Spotify / Apple Podcasts: BUILT4US Podcast Facebook: Built4us Podcast  UK BASED SUPPORT: 💥If you or anyone you care about is struggling with their mental health, reach out for support: If it's an emergency- ring 999 💥If you want to speak to someone, call The Samaritans on 116 123 💥To locate mental health support in your area, search The Hub of Hope https://hubofhope.co.uk/ 💥Free 24/7 Emotional, Physical & Financial Wellbeing Support for Construction Workers & their Families Home - Lighthouse Charity 🛠️Produced by Tim Roe of Courageous_Productions  💪Proudly Powered by JT MOTIV   💪Proudly sponsored by CHPK GROUP

In Episode 26 of Built4UsPodcast, JT (JT Motiv) sits down for an exclusive conversation with special guest Russell Payne, founder and host of The Talking Tradesman Podcast. Known for fostering honest conversations about life in the trades, Russell opens up about the origins of his podcast, its mission, and why discussions about mental health in construction and the trades are more important than ever.   This episode continues the conversation by focusing on the power of connection, community, and giving tradesmen a platform to speak openly. In this episode, JT and Russell discuss: The story behind The Talking Tradesman Podcast Mental health in the trades and construction industry Why tradesmen often struggle in silence The pressures of modern working life The importance of open conversations What exciting plans are coming next for The Talking Tradesman This is a real, honest conversation between two voices passionate about improving wellbeing across the trades and construction industries.   Listen, share, and help break the silence. You never know who might need to hear this today. 🛠️ This isn't just a podcast — it's a community. 💪Let's build something stronger together. 👉 Follow us on: 📸 Instagram: @built4uspodcast 🎧 TikTok: @built4uspodcast ▶️ YouTube: @built4uspodcast 🎙️ Spotify / Apple Podcasts: BUILT4US Podcast Facebook: Built4us Podcast  UK BASED SUPPORT: 💥If you or anyone you care about is struggling with their mental health, reach out for support: If it's an emergency- ring 999 💥If you want to speak to someone, call The Samaritans on 116 123 💥To locate mental health support in your area, search The Hub of Hope https://hubofhope.co.uk/ 💥Free 24/7 Emotional, Physical & Financial Wellbeing Support for Construction Workers & their Families Home - Lighthouse Charity 🛠️Produced by Tim Roe of Courageous_Productions  💪Proudly Powered by JT MOTIV INFO ON GUEST & HOST Russell Payne LinkedIn The Talking Tradesman Website Podcast JT Motiv Linkedin Website Instagram    

In Episode 25 of Built4UsPodcast, JT and Ben have an honest, reflective conversation about something often overlooked in the construction industry: Work-life balance — and why it's more important than ever. In an industry known for long hours, pressure, and constant demands, many workers find themselves stuck in a cycle of work, stress, and burnout — often at the expense of their mental health, relationships, and overall well-being. Following on from recent episodes exploring mental health, addiction, and workplace culture, this conversation shifts towards what real change can look like. JT and Ben open up about their own experiences: Past mistakes and regrets Times they prioritised work over everything else The impact it had on relationships and mental health How they've changed their approach to life and work In this episode, we discuss: The reality of work-life balance in construction Why burnout is so common in the industry The pressure to always be working How being more present improves relationships and well-being Practical mindset shifts that can make a difference Why balance isn't weakness — it's necessary This is a real, relatable conversation for anyone feeling the pressure of modern working life — especially in the trades.        Listen, share, and help break the silence. You never know who might need to hear this today. 🛠️ This isn't just a podcast — it's a community. 💪Let's build something stronger together. 👉 Follow us on: 📸 Instagram: @built4uspodcast 🎧 TikTok: @built4uspodcast ▶️ YouTube: @built4uspodcast 🎙️ Spotify / Apple Podcasts: BUILT4US Podcast Facebook: Built4us Podcast  UK BASED SUPPORT: 💥If you or anyone you care about is struggling with their mental health, reach out for support: If it's an emergency- ring 999 💥If you want to speak to someone, call The Samaritans on 116 123 💥To locate mental health support in your area, search The Hub of Hope https://hubofhope.co.uk/ 💥Free 24/7 Emotional, Physical & Financial Wellbeing Support for Construction Workers & their Families Home - Lighthouse Charity 🛠️Produced by Tim Roe of Courageous_Productions  💪Proudly Powered by JT MOTIV INFO ON GUEST & HOST Ben Summers LinkedIn Ben's Comedy Club: The Ginger Giggle Club JT Motiv Linkedin Website Instagram    

In Episode 24 of Built4UsPodcast, James (JT Motiv) and Ben take an honest and unfiltered look at one of the most normalised — yet destructive — parts of the construction industry: The drinking culture. From "work hard, drink hard" mentalities to using alcohol as a coping mechanism, drinking has long been embedded in life on-site. But what impact is it really having on mental health, addiction, and the lives of workers? Following on from previous conversations around zero tolerance policies and mental health support in construction, this episode digs deeper into the cultural side of the issue. Why is heavy drinking still so accepted? And why are so many men struggling because of it?   In this episode, we discuss: The reality of drinking culture in construction How alcohol is used to cope with stress and pressure The link between mental health and substance use Why it's so hard to break the cycle The impact on families, work, and wellbeing What needs to change in the industry This is a raw, honest conversation about a topic that affects thousands of workers but isn't spoken about enough. If you work in construction or care about men's mental health, addiction, and workplace culture, this episode is essential listening.    Listen, share, and help break the silence. You never know who might need to hear this today. 🛠️ This isn't just a podcast — it's a community. 💪Let's build something stronger together. 👉 Follow us on: 📸 Instagram: @built4uspodcast 🎧 TikTok: @built4uspodcast ▶️ YouTube: @built4uspodcast 🎙️ Spotify / Apple Podcasts: BUILT4US Podcast Facebook: Built4us Podcast  UK BASED SUPPORT: 💥If you or anyone you care about is struggling with their mental health, reach out for support: If it's an emergency- ring 999 💥If you want to speak to someone, call The Samaritans on 116 123 💥To locate mental health support in your area, search The Hub of Hope https://hubofhope.co.uk/ 💥Free 24/7 Emotional, Physical & Financial Wellbeing Support for Construction Workers & their Families Home - Lighthouse Charity 🛠️Produced by Tim Roe of Courageous_Productions  💪Proudly Powered by JT MOTIV INFO ON GUEST & HOST Ben Summers LinkedIn Ben's Comedy Club: The Ginger Giggle Club JT Motiv Linkedin Website Instagram  

In Episode 23 of Built4UsPodcast, Stevie and Craig return to tackle a big question in today's construction industry: Are mental health first aiders actually helping — or have they become a tick box exercise?   With increasing awareness around men's mental health in construction, many companies now have mental health first aiders in place. But is it making a real difference on-site? Or are workers still struggling in silence?   Drawing from real on-site experience and over 25 years in health & safety, Stevie and Craig break down what's working, what's not, and what mental health support in construction should actually look like. In this episode, we cover: -The role of mental health first aiders in construction -Whether they provide real support or just tick compliance boxes -Why some workers still don't trust the system -The gap between awareness and action -What meaningful mental health support should look like on-site -Why the industry needs to rethink its approach   This is a straight-talking, honest conversation about the reality of mental health in construction — and why change is still needed. If you work in the industry or care about improving workplace wellbeing and support for men, this episode is for you.   🛠️ This isn't just a podcast — it's a community. 💪Let's build something stronger together. 👉 Follow us on: 📸 Instagram: @built4uspodcast 🎧 TikTok: @built4uspodcast ▶️ YouTube: @built4uspodcast 🎙️ Spotify / Apple Podcasts: BUILT4US Podcast Facebook: Built4us Podcast  UK BASED SUPPORT: 💥If you or anyone you care about is struggling with their mental health, reach out for support: If it's an emergency- ring 999 💥If you want to speak to someone, call The Samaritans on 116 123 💥To locate mental health support in your area, search The Hub of Hope https://hubofhope.co.uk/ 💥Free 24/7 Emotional, Physical & Financial Wellbeing Support for Construction Workers & their Families Home - Lighthouse Charity 🛠️Produced by Tim Roe of Courageous_Productions  💪Proudly Powered by JT MOTIV INFO ON GUEST & HOST Steven Kirby Website Instagram Craig Paton Instagram Website