As we all know, for years, talking about issues like mental health and addiction was considered taboo — especially in the skilled trades. However, across plumbing, heating, cooling, piping and other segments of the trades and construction industry, more people are offering support and opening up about their personal experiences than ever before. We’ve chosen six podcasts leading that shift, giving tradespeople a voice and offering real conversations, practical tools and reminders that no one has to go it alone.
Boom Goes the Stigma
A production of the Construction Suicide Prevention Partnership (CSPP), Boom Goes the Stigma is designed to spark important conversations about mental health and suicide prevention in the construction industry. With guests from around the globe, the podcast highlights diverse perspectives, innovative prevention strategies for tradespeople and actionable tips to support mental well-being for construction professionals.
The Talking Tradesman
This U.K.-based podcast addresses the often-overlooked issue of mental health among men in the trades. Through insightful discussions and interviews, it sheds light on the unique challenges and pressures faced by tradespeople, offering practical advice and support. By delving into topics like stress, anxiety and depression, the podcast aims to destigmatize mental health conversations in the traditionally macho culture of the trades. It also provides a safe space for tradesmen to share their experiences and seek guidance, fostering a sense of community and solidarity.
Skilled & Sober - Construction Trades Podcast
Episodes of this “raw and real,” largely unedited podcast are shared infrequently, but listeners can find a trove of inspirational stories in its 17 published episodes. Host Garrett interviews guests who work in the trades and are in recovery from alcohol and drug addiction. Each shares their experience of the life they lived in active addiction in the trades, and how they have come out the other side working harder than ever with a new mindset.
Build & Thrive
Hosted by Jennie Armstrong, founder of Construction Health & Wellbeing, each episode of this U.K.-based podcast features inspiring conversations with experts and change-makers dedicated to creating a healthier, happier workforce. Hear interviews with inspirational individuals who are leading the way in tackling the industry’s toughest challenges, from staggering health statistics to skills shortages and talent retention.
The Building PA Podcast
Hosted by Chris Martin, president of Atlas Marketing, and Jon O’Brien, executive director for the Keystone Contractors Association, this podcast serves the construction industry throughout the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania in brief segments. Although not specifically focused on mental health and wellness, Building PA frequently discusses the topic with 14 episodes covering matters such as opioid awareness and pain management, addiction recovery, suicide prevention, new industry mental health initiatives and more. The podcast also does an excellent job of categorizing its episodes by subject matter on www.buildingpapodcast.com, where listeners can also dive into interviews focused on other topics such as safety, communications and business leadership.
The MYH Podcast – Mental Health in Construction
Another U.K.-based podcast, since 2020, MYH has been giving a voice to the construction industry, tackling mental health and well-being head on. Each episode features real construction workers — from apprentices to site managers — sharing powerful, honest stories of tough times, recovery and resilience. This podcast is about breaking the stigma, building hope and showing that it can get better. Whether you’re on site or behind the scenes, you’ll hear relatable stories, practical tips and inspiration from across the trades.
All podcasts can be found online on platforms such as Spotify and Apple Podcasts.
