Onward Shift Podcast | Mental Health in Construction

The conversations most people avoid are often the ones that matter most. The Onward Shift Podcast explores honest discussions around mental health in construction and the challenges people face both on and off the job site. Each episode dives into real topics like stress, suicide, addiction, grief, anxiety, wellbeing and personal growth. Through open conversations with guests from around the world, the aim is to break the silence around difficult topics, encourage better mental health conversations and remind people they’re not alone. Together we are stronger so no-one should feel alone!

Onward Shift Podcast | Mental Health in Construction is a health podcast hosted by Unknown Host, with 50 episodes on record and a Required Pod Score of 80. PitchCentric scores this show on Booking Probability, Listen Score, and live audience signals refreshed every 24 hours.

Unknown Host hosts Onward Shift Podcast | Mental Health in Construction, a health show with 50 episodes published.

Our AI reads these to draft pitches. Use them as grounding for a pitch that cites a real guest and a specific topic.

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  Episode #26

  People Pleasing, Shame & Finding Yourself Again | Evan Hendricks

  Jul 1, 20261h 8mS3

  In this deeply honest episode of the Onward Shift Podcast , Vishal Narbheram sits down with marriage coach Evan Hendricks to explore a conversation that goes far beyond relationships. Together, they unpack how childhood experiences, people pleasing, shame and societal expectations can slowly disconnect men from who they truly are. Evan shares his own journey growing up feeling like he had to earn love through performance, carrying that mindset into adulthood, marriage and addiction before beginning the difficult work of rediscovering his authentic self. He speaks candidly about therapy, vulnerability, rebuilding trust after years of secrecy and why genuine freedom only comes when we stop living for other people's approval. The conversation also explores why so many men struggle to identify what genuinely brings them joy, how suppressing emotions affects relationships and why reconnecting with the passions we loved as children can be the first step towards healing. This is an open and thought-provoking conversation about identity, connection, emotional honesty and what it truly means to live authentically. 💬 Trigger Warning: This episode contains discussions around childhood trauma, pornography addiction, sexual abuse, shame, and mental health. Please listen with care. Key Topics Growing up feeling the need to earn love and acceptance People pleasing and losing your sense of identity Childhood trauma and its lasting impact on adulthood Rebuilding trust and honesty within marriage Why vulnerability is one of a man's greatest strengths Therapy, self-discovery and emotional healing Reconnecting with childhood passions and authentic joy The importance of community and emotionally safe spaces for men Learning the language of emotions and healthy communication Living authentically instead of performing for approval Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Conversation 01:18 Evan's Early Life and Struggles 05:50 Teenage Years and People Pleasing 10:34 Determination and the Quest for Acceptance 13:10 Transition to Adulthood and Marriage Coaching 16:43 Coping Mechanisms and Addictions 19:56 The Search for Identity and Self-Discovery 25:49 Balancing Maturity and Playfulness 28:10 Rediscovering Joy and Authenticity 33:30 Vulnerability and Emotional Expression 37:47 Finding Freedom Through Honesty 40:16 Difficult Conversations in Relationships 43:12 Secrets, Shame and Rebuilding Trust 47:41 Grief, Trauma and Self-Compassion 51:35 Learning to Communicate Emotionally 56:09 Brotherhood, Community and Connection 🎙️ 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/⁠ * Facebook: ⁠⁠ ⁠https://www.facebook.com/onwardshift/⁠ * TikTok: ⁠⁠ ⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@onwardshift⁠ * LinkedIn: ⁠⁠ ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/onward-shift/⁠ Learn more about the mental health support we offer: ⁠⁠ ⁠www.onwardshift.com⁠ Follow the host Vishal Narbheram on LinkedIn here: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/vishal-narbheram-56bb3a194/⁠ You can find Evan Hendrix here: Linkedin - ⁠⁠ ⁠ https://www.linkedin.com/in/evan-hendrix-b350a22b2/ Website - ⁠ https://www.evanhendrix.com/

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  Episode #25

  Masculinity, Nature & Emotional Strength: A Conversation with Tom Gold

  Jun 1, 20261h 7mS3

  In this thought-provoking episode of the Onward Shift Podcast , Vishal Narbheram sits down with Tom Gold to explore the growing crisis surrounding men’s mental health and the transformative power of nature, vulnerability and community. Tom shares his experiences working with men through outdoor experiences, bushcraft and community-led initiatives designed to help men reconnect not only with nature but with themselves and each other. Together, the conversation dives into emotional coherence, modern masculinity, identity, role models, and why so many men struggle to express emotion in today’s world. The episode explores how outdoor environments can create psychologically safe spaces where men feel more comfortable opening up, reflecting and building genuine camaraderie. Tom also discusses the importance of slowing down, unplugging from technology and rediscovering simplicity in a constantly overstimulated world. This is a grounded and honest conversation about masculinity, belonging, emotional wellbeing and the importance of creating spaces where men feel seen, heard and supported. 💬 Trigger Warning: This episode contains discussions around men’s mental health and emotional struggles. Please listen with care. Key Topics The growing crisis surrounding men’s mental health The healing influence of nature and outdoor experiences Emotional coherence and vulnerability in men Brotherhood, camaraderie, and community support The pressures facing modern masculinity The impact of technology and overstimulation Positive male role models and identity Creating safe spaces for emotional honesty Outdoor skills and practical wellbeing tools The importance of presence, listening, and connection Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Tom Gold and His Background02:08 The Importance of Men’s Mental Health05:28 Creating Safe Spaces for Men to Talk09:22 The “Man Code” and Emotional Coherence11:30 Historical Perspectives on Masculinity14:50 Working with Gang Members and Transformation20:20 Nature’s Role in Mental Health25:03 The Significance of Feeling Insignificant29:11 Unplugging from Technology33:26 Challenges of Modern Masculinity36:22 The Changing Dynamics of Masculinity39:17 Traditional Courtesies and Respect43:53 Identity, Influence, and Male Role Models49:34 Presence, Listening, and Emotional Safety54:12 Creating Safe Spaces for Men56:54 Shared Experiences and Everyday Reality 🎙️ 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/ * Facebook: ⁠⁠ https://www.facebook.com/onwardshift/ * TikTok: ⁠⁠ https://www.tiktok.com/@onwardshift * LinkedIn: ⁠⁠ https://www.linkedin.com/company/onward-shift/ Learn more about the mental health support we offer: ⁠⁠ www.onwardshift.com Follow the host Vishal Narbheram on LinkedIn here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vishal-narbheram-56bb3a194/ You can find Tom Gold here: Linkedin - ⁠⁠ https://www.linkedin.com/in/tom-gold-42a288254/ Website - https://www.mensoutdoorgroup.co.uk You can get 10% off Tom’s retreats here - https://onwardshift.com/mens-outdoor-group/

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  Episode #23

  Electrician to Advocate: Vishal Narbheram on Mental Health & Onward Shift

  May 1, 20261h 15mS3

  In this episode of The Hurt Locker Podcast, The podcast that opens a door into men's mental health. Real Men. Real Stories. Real Mental Health Conversations, host Yinka Yesufu sits down with Vishal Narbheram, founder of Onward Shift, for a powerful and honest conversation about mental health, identity and resilience. Vish shares his personal journey through mental health struggles while working in the construction industry an environment where conversations around emotional wellbeing are often overlooked. He opens up about the pressures, the internal battles and the turning points that led him to seek therapy, understand emotional regulation and ultimately create Onward Shift a platform designed to make mental health support more accessible within construction. The conversation also explores wider themes, including race and diversity within the industry, the impact of societal expectations and social media on younger generations and the importance of building safe, supportive communities where men can speak openly without judgement. This episode is not just a story it’s a reflection on what happens when men begin to talk and the change that can follow when they do. Key Topics Mental health challenges within the construction industry Emotional regulation and the role of therapy Race, diversity, and lived experience in construction The pressures facing young people today Building support systems and safe spaces for men The creation and mission of Onward Shift Turning personal struggle into purpose Chapters 00:00 Introduction & Guest Credibility00:59 A Day in the Life: Routine & Structure02:50 Personal Background & Entry into Construction06:16 Race, Diversity & Industry Challenges10:51 Overcoming Racism & Building Resilience20:52 Recognising Mental Health Struggles30:28 Therapy & Emotional Regulation39:16 Talking to Youth & Breaking Stigma47:33 Mental Health in Construction52:18 Support Systems & Industry Change57:03 Onward Shift: Purpose & Platform01:00:45 Self-Care & Personal Responsibility01:04:36 Advice to Younger Self & Closing 🎙️ Support & Stay Connected 🎙️ If you like this episode, please like it and share it. 🎙️ Don’t forget to subscribe for more updates. Links to Onward Shift: Facebook - ⁠⁠ ⁠https://www.facebook.com/onwardshift/⁠⁠⁠ Instagram - ⁠⁠ ⁠https://www.instagram.com/onwardshift/⁠⁠⁠ TikTok - ⁠⁠ ⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@onwardshift⁠⁠⁠ LinkedIn - ⁠⁠ ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/onward-shift/⁠⁠⁠ Website - ⁠⁠⁠ https://onwardshift.com⁠⁠⁠ Vishal Narbheram - ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/vishal-narbheram-56bb3a194/⁠ ⁠ Links to The Hurt Locker Podcast: Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php/?id=100092582456788 Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thehurtlockerpod/ TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@hurtlockerpodcast Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@thehurtlockerpod Website - https://thehurtlockerpod.libsyn.com Courageous Productions - https://www.instagram.com/courageous_productions/?hl=en Tim Roe (production artist) - https://www.linkedin.com/in/timroewp/

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  Episode #22

  Grief, Vulnerability & Healing: A Conversation with Kate Nudds

  Apr 13, 202654 minS3

  Summary In this heartfelt and compassionate episode of the Onward Shift Podcast , Vishal Narbheram sits down with award winning grief coach Kate Nudds to explore the many forms grief can take and how we learn to live alongside it. Grief is not limited to the death of a loved one. Kate explains how loss can show up through bereavement, estrangement, serious illness, pet loss and even anticipatory grief the pain of knowing loss is coming. Together, they unpack the physical and emotional impact grief can have on the body and mind and why vulnerability and safe spaces are essential during the grieving process. Kate introduces the concept of “continuing bonds,” explaining how healing does not mean forgetting but integrating the memory and meaning of what or who has been lost. The conversation offers practical tools such as journaling, writing letters, spending time in nature and simply learning how to sit with emotion rather than suppress it. This episode is a reminder that grief is not something to fix it is something to understand, honour, and navigate with compassion. 💬 Trigger Warning: This episode contains discussions around bereavement, illness, and emotional loss. Please listen with care. Key Topics Different types of grief: bereavement, estrangement, anticipatory grief The physical and emotional effects of grief Continuing bonds and integrating loss Supporting others through presence and listening Journaling and expressive writing techniques The significance of pet loss Grieving serious illness or diagnoses Managing grief triggers and fluctuating emotions Nature and community as healing tools Creating safe spaces for vulnerability Chapters 00:00 Introduction & Guest Introduction 01:03 What Is Grief and Why It Matters 02:07 Understanding Loss Beyond Death 03:31 The Complex Relationship with What’s Been Lost 06:11 Physical and Emotional Effects of Grief 08:13 Continuing Bonds and Integration 09:35 Acceptance and Managing Pain 10:58 Different Grief Responses & Safe Spaces 13:00 What a Grief Coaching Session Looks Like 14:29 Vulnerability in Grief Support 16:10 Kate’s Personal Story 20:24 The Art of Listening 22:42 Practical Ways to Support a Grieving Friend 24:39 Grief Triggers and Emotional Waves 26:40 Grieving Someone Who Is Still Alive 28:41 Navigating Illness and Anticipatory Grief 30:56 Journaling and Expressive Techniques 33:37 Normalising Pet Loss 36:11 The Significance of Emotional Bonds with Pets 40:49 Multiple Losses in a Short Period 42:15 Finding Hope After Personal Loss 45:28 Accepting Grief Around Diagnoses 49:00 The Healing Power of Nature and Community 49:32 The Importance of Talking 51:18 Where to Find Support 🎙️ 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/⁠⁠ * Facebook: ⁠⁠ https://www.facebook.com/onwardshift/⁠⁠ * TikTok: ⁠⁠ https://www.tiktok.com/@onwardshift⁠⁠ * LinkedIn: ⁠⁠ https://www.linkedin.com/company/onward-shift/⁠⁠ Learn more about the mental health support we offer: ⁠⁠https://onwardshift.com⁠⁠ Follow Vishal Narbheram on LinkedIn here: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/vishal-narbheram-56bb3a194/⁠ You can find Kate here: Linkedin - ⁠ ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/katenuddsgriefcoaching/ TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@grievethenachieve?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/grievethenachieve/ Website - https://www.grievethenachieve.co.uk

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  Episode #21

  The Pain Tank: Why Men Die by Suicide - Dr. Susie Bennett Explains

  Mar 30, 20261h 29mS3

  Summary In this powerful and research-led episode of the Onward Shift Podcast , Vishal Narbheram is joined by Dr. Susie Bennett , whose academic work focuses on understanding male suicide and the deeper cultural factors that influence men’s mental health. Dr. Bennett unpacks the alarming reality of male suicide rates and explores how masculinity, loneliness, emotional suppression and societal expectations shape men’s inner worlds. She introduces the concept of the “pain tank” a powerful analogy describing how accumulated emotional pain, when left unprocessed, can lead to suicidal thoughts. The conversation dives into emotional regulation tools, the impact of childhood adversity, the role of isolation and why community and connection are essential protective factors. Rather than framing suicide as weakness, Dr. Bennett reframes it as the result of overwhelming pain combined with limited coping mechanisms. This episode challenges cultural narratives around masculinity and highlights the importance of giving men language, connection, and practical tools to process emotion safely. 💬 Trigger Warning: This episode contains discussions around male suicide, emotional distress, and mental health struggles. Please listen with care. Key Takeaways Male suicide is deeply connected to cultural expectations around masculinity Emotional suppression increases psychological risk The “pain tank” analogy explains how accumulated distress builds over time Loneliness and isolation are significant suicide risk factors Emotional regulation skills can reduce suicidal vulnerability Suicide is often a response to overwhelming pain, not weakness Community and connection act as protective buffers Therapy is one of many tools available for emotional growth Childhood adversity can shape adult coping patterns Redefining masculinity is crucial for improving men’s mental health Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Dr. Susie Bennett and Her Work 02:40 Why Men’s Mental Health Matters 05:09 Understanding Male Suicide Rates 07:53 Emotional Expression and Masculinity 10:39 Loneliness and Isolation as Risk Factors 13:24 Therapy and the Journey to Self-Understanding 15:41 The “Pain Tank” and Emotional Regulation 18:45 Cultural Influences on Men’s Mental Health 21:25 The Symphony of Suicidal Sorrow 24:06 Finding Personal Tools for Processing Emotion 26:59 Social Media and Mental Health Awareness 33:35 Societal Pressures on Men 34:42 The Importance of Connection and Support 36:27 Barriers to Seeking Help 38:29 Therapy and Emotional Literacy 40:54 Practical Emotional Regulation Tools 45:24 Root Causes of Male Suicide 48:10 The “Chord of Pain” Explained 53:38 Cultural Identity and Emotional Restriction 55:08 Building Community in a Disconnected World 01:02:53 The Impact of Failure on Men’s Mental Health 01:05:38 Performance Pressure and Isolation 01:10:41 Redefining Masculinity 01:17:28 The Evolution of Masculine Ideals 01:21:08 Community as Prevention 01:25:06 Childhood Adversity and Long-Term Effects 01:28:38 Resources and Final Reflections 🎙️ 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/⁠⁠ * Facebook: ⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/onwardshift/⁠⁠ * TikTok: ⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@onwardshift⁠⁠ * LinkedIn: ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/onward-shift/⁠⁠ Learn more about the mental health support we offer: ⁠⁠https://onwardshift.com⁠⁠ Follow Vishal Narbheram on LinkedIn here: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/vishal-narbheram-56bb3a194/⁠ Learn more about Dr. Susie Bennett on his LinkedIn profile here: ⁠ https://www.linkedin.com/in/bennettsusie/ See Susie’s website here: https://malesuicideresearch.com Find Susie on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/male_suicide_research/

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