Episodes

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

    Electrician to Advocate: Vishal Narbheram on Mental Health & Onward Shift
    May 1 2026

    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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    1 hr and 15 mins
  • Grief, Vulnerability & Healing: A Conversation with Kate Nudds

    Grief, Vulnerability & Healing: A Conversation with Kate Nudds
    Apr 13 2026
    SummaryIn 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 TopicsDifferent types of grief: bereavement, estrangement, anticipatory griefThe physical and emotional effects of griefContinuing bonds and integrating lossSupporting others through presence and listeningJournaling and expressive writing techniquesThe significance of pet lossGrieving serious illness or diagnosesManaging grief triggers and fluctuating emotionsNature and community as healing toolsCreating safe spaces for vulnerabilityChapters00:00 Introduction & Guest Introduction01:03 What Is Grief and Why It Matters02:07 Understanding Loss Beyond Death03:31 The Complex Relationship with What’s Been Lost06:11 Physical and Emotional Effects of Grief08:13 Continuing Bonds and Integration09:35 Acceptance and Managing Pain10:58 Different Grief Responses & Safe Spaces13:00 What a Grief Coaching Session Looks Like14:29 Vulnerability in Grief Support16:10 Kate’s Personal Story20:24 The Art of Listening22:42 Practical Ways to Support a Grieving Friend24:39 Grief Triggers and Emotional Waves26:40 Grieving Someone Who Is Still Alive28:41 Navigating Illness and Anticipatory Grief30:56 Journaling and Expressive Techniques33:37 Normalising Pet Loss36:11 The Significance of Emotional Bonds with Pets40:49 Multiple Losses in a Short Period42:15 Finding Hope After Personal Loss45:28 Accepting Grief Around Diagnoses49:00 The Healing Power of Nature and Community49:32 The Importance of Talking51:18 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.com⁠⁠Follow 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=pcInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/grievethenachieve/Website - https://www.grievethenachieve.co.uk
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    54 mins
  • The Pain Tank: Why Men Die by Suicide - Dr. Susie Bennett Explains

    The Pain Tank: Why Men Die by Suicide - Dr. Susie Bennett Explains
    Mar 30 2026
    SummaryIn 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 TakeawaysMale suicide is deeply connected to cultural expectations around masculinityEmotional suppression increases psychological riskThe “pain tank” analogy explains how accumulated distress builds over timeLoneliness and isolation are significant suicide risk factorsEmotional regulation skills can reduce suicidal vulnerabilitySuicide is often a response to overwhelming pain, not weaknessCommunity and connection act as protective buffersTherapy is one of many tools available for emotional growthChildhood adversity can shape adult coping patternsRedefining masculinity is crucial for improving men’s mental healthChapters00:00 Introduction to Dr. Susie Bennett and Her Work02:40 Why Men’s Mental Health Matters05:09 Understanding Male Suicide Rates07:53 Emotional Expression and Masculinity10:39 Loneliness and Isolation as Risk Factors13:24 Therapy and the Journey to Self-Understanding15:41 The “Pain Tank” and Emotional Regulation18:45 Cultural Influences on Men’s Mental Health21:25 The Symphony of Suicidal Sorrow24:06 Finding Personal Tools for Processing Emotion26:59 Social Media and Mental Health Awareness33:35 Societal Pressures on Men34:42 The Importance of Connection and Support36:27 Barriers to Seeking Help38:29 Therapy and Emotional Literacy40:54 Practical Emotional Regulation Tools45:24 Root Causes of Male Suicide48:10 The “Chord of Pain” Explained53:38 Cultural Identity and Emotional Restriction55:08 Building Community in a Disconnected World01:02:53 The Impact of Failure on Men’s Mental Health01:05:38 Performance Pressure and Isolation01:10:41 Redefining Masculinity01:17:28 The Evolution of Masculine Ideals01:21:08 Community as Prevention01:25:06 Childhood Adversity and Long-Term Effects01:28:38 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.com⁠⁠Follow 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.comFind Susie on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/male_suicide_research/
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    1 hr and 29 mins
  • £100,000 Lost: Paul Nash on Gambling, ADHD & Rebuilding His Life

    £100,000 Lost: Paul Nash on Gambling, ADHD & Rebuilding His Life
    Mar 16 2026

    Summary

    In this powerful episode of the Onward Shift Podcast, Vishal Narbheram sits down with Paul Nash to explore a deeply honest journey through gambling addiction, ADHD, mental health struggles and personal transformation. Paul shares how gambling began in his university years and gradually escalated into an addiction that would cost him an estimated £100,000 over time. He speaks candidly about how diagnosed ADHD fuelled hyper fixation behaviours, the shame and secrecy that accompanied his addiction and the mental health challenges that followed. The turning point came when Paul reached out for support through GamCare a decision that marked the beginning of recovery from there, he began rebuilding his life, addressing not only his addiction but also his physical health. Paul went on to lose 55 kilograms as part of a wider transformation, facing health setbacks along the way but refusing to give up. This episode is about ownership, accountability, support systems and the reality that recovery is not a straight line. Paul’s story is a reminder that asking for help is strength and sometimes, just waking up is an achievement in itself.


    💬 Trigger Warning: This episode contains discussions around gambling addiction, mental health struggles, and recovery. Please listen with care.


    Key Takeaways

    • Gambling addiction can escalate gradually and quietly
    • ADHD can significantly influence addictive behaviours
    • Shame and secrecy often fuel addiction cycles
    • Seeking help through organisations like GamCare can be life-changing
    • Support systems are crucial during recovery
    • Personal accountability plays a key role in long-term change
    • Recovery requires both emotional and behavioural shifts
    • Weight loss can become part of a wider mental health transformation
    • Progress is not linear — setbacks do not equal failure
    • Sometimes, simply getting out of bed is a victory


    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Paul Nash's Journey
    10:14 The Start of Gambling Addiction
    17:14 The Impact of ADHD on Gambling
    23:33 The Escalation of Addiction
    24:13 The Breaking Point
    27:03 Seeking Help and Finding Support
    29:50 The Importance of Accessible Support Services
    32:16 Rebuilding Life and Personal Accountability
    41:32 Weight Loss, Health Setbacks & Transformation
    49:00 Advice for Recovery and Mental Well-being
    55:00 “Just Waking Up Is a Win” — 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 Paul Nash on his LinkedIn profile here: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-nash-313b79204/

    Get help with gambling addiction here: http://www.gamcare.org.uk


    #GamblingAddiction #ADHD #AddictionRecovery #MensMentalHealth #MentalHealthAwareness #GamCare #RecoveryJourney #BreakingTheStigma #WeightLossTransformation #Resilience #AddictionSupport #MentalWellbeing #YouAreNotAlone #OvercomingAddiction

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    45 mins
  • Fall Seven Times: Brett Smith on Trauma, Addiction & Rebuilding a Life

    Fall Seven Times: Brett Smith on Trauma, Addiction & Rebuilding a Life
    Mar 2 2026
    SummaryIn this powerful episode of the Onward Shift Podcast, Vishal Narbheram sits down with Brett Smith, Global Safety Director, to unpack a life defined not by tragedy but by resilience. At just 18 years old, Brett survived a horrific vehicle accident that left him without the use of his right arm. What followed was not just physical recovery but a far deeper battle with trauma, depression, addiction and suicidal ideation. Brett opens up about the years that followed the coping mechanisms that nearly destroyed him, the friend who called him out at his lowest point and the long road toward rebuilding his life, marriage and career. Now a leader in the construction industry, Brett is on a mission to revolutionise safety culture by putting mental health first. Through honest communication, peer support initiative, and creating safe spaces for vulnerability, he is proving that strength isn’t about silence it’s about connection. This is a conversation about trauma, redemption, leadership and what it truly means to meet people where they are.💬 Trigger Warning: This episode contains discussions around trauma, addiction, mental health struggles and suicide. Please listen with care.Key TakeawaysA single moment can completely change the trajectory of your life.Physical recovery does not automatically mean emotional recovery.Trauma left unprocessed can evolve into depression and addiction.Vulnerability is not weakness — it is leadership.Addiction can function as a coping mechanism for unresolved pain.One honest conversation can interrupt a suicidal spiral.Career success does not erase mental health struggles.Communication is the foundation of psychological safety.Construction must address mental health as seriously as physical safety.Creating safe spaces for men to speak openly can transform workplace culture.Chapters00:00 Introduction & Meeting Brett00:55 The Accident That Changed Everything03:53 Hospitalisation & Physical Recovery08:28 PTSD, Depression & Early Mental Health Struggles16:21 Addiction, Suicide Ideation & A Critical Turning Point18:57 Marriage, Fatherhood & Rebuilding Stability25:37 Entering Construction & Finding Purpose30:14 From Surviving to Leading31:28 Identity, Growth & Self-Discovery39:57 The Mental Health Crisis in Construction46:21 Peer Support & Creating Safe Spaces57:15 Revolutionising Safety Culture Through Vulnerability🎙️ 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/@onwardshift⁠⁠LinkedIn: ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/onward-shift/⁠⁠Learn more about the mental health support we offer: ⁠⁠https://onwardshift.com⁠⁠Follow Vishal Narbheram on LinkedIn here: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/vishal-narbheram-56bb3a194/⁠ Learn more about Brett Smith on his LinkedIn profile here: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/brettsmith77/Learn more about Gardner Builders here: https://gardner-builders.com
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    1 hr and 2 mins
  • Resilience, Family & Finding Light Through Illness - A Conversation with Clive Branson

    Resilience, Family & Finding Light Through Illness - A Conversation with Clive Branson
    Feb 15 2026

    In this deeply moving episode of the Onward Shift Podcast, Vishal Narbheram is joined by Clive for an honest and inspiring conversation about family, resilience and navigating life through profound health challenges.


    Clive shares his life story from his upbringing and close-knit family life to facing serious medical diagnoses including a hole in his heart, motor neurone disease, prostate cancer and severe anxiety that led to psychiatric hospitalisation. Through it all, Clive speaks candidly about the importance of open communication, medical understanding and the unwavering support of his family.


    This episode explores how perspective, gratitude and small, intentional actions can help rebuild confidence and identity after life-altering events. Clive’s journey is a testament to the power of love, human connection and choosing hope even when circumstances feel overwhelming.


    This is not a story of denial or toxic positivity. It is a story of realism, courage, adaptation and the quiet strength required to keep moving forward.


    💬 Trigger Warning: This episode includes discussions around serious illness, mental health crises, psychiatric hospitalisation and anxiety. Please listen with care.


    Key Takeaways

    • Family can be the strongest support system during crisis
    • Open communication reduces fear and isolation
    • Serious health challenges can deepen relationships
    • Understanding medical conditions helps reduce anxiety
    • Resilience is built through small, daily actions
    • Gratitude can exist alongside pain and uncertainty
    • Seeking professional medical and mental health support is vital
    • Identity loss is common after illness and can be rebuilt
    • Nature, routine and purpose can support recovery
    • Life’s challenges can be faced with honesty, humour and hope


    Chapters

    00:00 Family, Love and Foundations02:30 Growing Up and Early Life Influences05:22 A Stroke, a Hole in the Heart, and Medical Breakthroughs08:01 Losing Parents and Navigating Grief10:53 Early Signs of Declining Health13:39 Diagnosis of Motor Neurone Disease16:26 Open Family Communication Around Illness19:17 Perspective, Gratitude and Adaptation22:11 Prostate Cancer and the Importance of Early Testing24:59 Anxiety, Identity Loss and the Perfect Storm27:51 Entering Psychiatric Hospital30:52 Understanding Mental Health Care from the Inside33:44 Rebuilding Confidence and Independence38:55 Small Wins, Gardening and Finding Purpose43:11 Nature, Routine and Mental Wellbeing46:21 Volunteering, Public Speaking and Giving Back50:18 Working with Prisons and Vulnerable Groups55:40 Redefining Identity and Self-Worth58:36 Living with Gratitude and Looking Forward01:08:20 “How Are You?” Reflections on Life Today


    🎙️ 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 Clive Branson on his Linkedin profile here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/clive-branson-8b4267232/
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    50 mins
  • Vulnerability, Hope & Culture Change in Construction - A Conversation with Craig Paton

    Vulnerability, Hope & Culture Change in Construction - A Conversation with Craig Paton
    Jan 15 2026
    In this powerful and honest episode of the Onward Shift Podcast, Vishal Narbheram is joined by Craig Paton for a deeply human conversation about vulnerability, purpose, addiction and the urgent need for cultural change within the construction industry.Craig shares his personal journey from childhood influences and personal loss to navigating addiction and mental health challenges while working in construction. Together, Vishal and Craig explore why hope matters, how small daily changes can have a meaningful impact on wellbeing and why vulnerability should be seen as a strength rather than a weakness.The conversation also dives into the cultural clash between office-based environments and life on site, the realities and misconceptions surrounding health and safety in construction, and how a lack of empathy and communication continues to contribute to poor mental health outcomes. With suicide rates in construction remaining alarmingly high, this episode calls for a shift in awareness, leadership and perspective to improve retention, safety and overall wellbeing across the industry.This episode is raw, reflective and necessary offering lived experience, practical insight and a clear vision for a more supportive and inclusive construction culture.💬 Trigger Warning: This episode contains discussions around mental health, addiction, personal loss and suicide. Please listen with care.Key TakeawaysVulnerability is a strength, not a weaknessSmall daily changes can have a big impact on mental healthHope plays a vital role in recovery and resiliencePersonal loss can shape purpose and direction in life and workMental health must be addressed openly in constructionHumour can help, but must be balanced with professionalismCultural change is essential for healthier working environmentsEmpathy is key to understanding the realities faced on siteAddiction support must be part of mental health conversationsRetention in construction is closely linked to wellbeing and supportBridging the gap between office and trades cultures is criticalReal-life stories can drive meaningful change across the industryChapters00:00 Introduction to Vulnerability and Purpose02:30 The Importance of Hope and Small Changes05:22 Childhood and Early Influences08:01 Transitioning into Construction and Personal Struggles10:53 The Impact of Loss in the Industry13:39 Navigating Mental Health and Addiction16:26 Vulnerability in Construction Culture19:17 The Need for Change in Construction Practices22:11 Balancing Humour and Professionalism24:59 Cultural Shifts in the Construction Industry27:51 A Vision for the Future of Construction30:52 Creating a Supportive Working Environment33:44 Empathy and Understanding on Site44:07 Cultural Clash: Office vs Trades46:24 Health and Safety - A Delusional Perspective51:09 Mental Health in Construction: A Call for Change58:22 Empathy and Awareness: Bridging the Gap01:03:18 Retention, Wellbeing and the Future Workforce01:11:46 Communication as the Key to Change🎙️ 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/@onwardshift⁠LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/onward-shift/⁠Learn more about the mental health support we offer: ⁠https://onwardshift.com⁠Follow Vishal Narbheram on LinkedIn here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vishal-narbheram-56bb3a194/ Learn more about Craig Paton on his Linkedin profile here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigpaton1982/
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    1 hr and 18 mins
  • Men, Mental Health & The Power of Vulnerability - A Conversation with Valentin Moyo

    Men, Mental Health & The Power of Vulnerability - A Conversation with Valentin Moyo
    Nov 26 2025
    SummaryIn this powerful and deeply human episode of the Men Are Human Too podcast, hosted by Valentin Moyo, guest Vishal Narbheram (founder of Onward Shift) opens up with raw honesty about the realities men face when dealing with mental health struggles. From suicidal thoughts and emotional burnout to navigating ADHD, OCD and the pressures of the construction industry, Vish shares what it truly takes to rebuild life from the inside out.Together, Valentin and Vish explore why asking for help is so difficult for men, how childhood environments and masculinity norms shape emotional expression and why vulnerability is not weakness but one of the strongest tools a man can develop. Vish speaks candidly about learning presence, grounding, trust and regulation through therapy, while Valentin guides the conversation with empathy, curiosity and genuine emotional intelligence.More than a conversation, this episode is a blueprint for healing, awareness, emotional wellbeing and cultural change. Whether you work in construction, support men, or have your own silent battles, this episode will speak to you deeply.🎙️ Listen to Valentin’s podcast here:Men Are Human Too → https://open.spotify.com/show/3pnekgTcUNl43y3kjIhPSs?si=2cBqdeJ6SU6h_dl8kD3oFA You can find Valentin on LinkedIn here- https://www.linkedin.com/in/valentine-z-moyo/ 💬 Trigger Warning: This episode contains open discussions about suicide, trauma and men’s mental health struggles. Please listen with care.TakeawaysMen often struggle to ask for help due to stigma, conditioning and fearSuicidal thoughts can build gradually reaching out can save a lifePresence, grounding and slowing down are powerful for mental wellbeingADHD and OCD make emotional regulation more challengingChildhood environments shape safety, trust and emotional identityMany men express pain through anger due to lack of emotional vocabularyTherapy offers structure, validation and a safe space to feelConstruction culture reinforces “man up” behaviours but is changingMixed-gender support provides wider emotional perspectivesA victim is a victim support must be accessible to everyoneChapters00:00 Life Is Unpredictable: Why Community Matters01:32 When Support Disappears During Hard Times03:00 Welcome to Men Are Human Too — Introducing Vish03:32 Men Asking for Help: Why It’s So Hard04:20 Suicidal Thoughts & the Turning Point05:57 Learning Presence, Gratitude & Slowing Down08:20 What Presence Really Feels Like10:43 ADHD, Overthinking & Constant Mental Noise12:15 Learning to Relax & Trust Through Therapy13:05 Grounding, Touch, Sensory Work & Breathing15:32 Closing His Eyes in Public for the First Time in 5 Years17:33 How Therapists Build Trust19:58 Emotional Tension, Anxiety & Somatic Awareness20:22 Swearing vs Feeling: Why Men Express Anger22:27 Childhood, Environment & Lack of Emotional Vocabulary24:53 Why Men Explode Emotionally27:12 Are Therapy Platforms for Men Necessary?29:28 Groups vs Therapy — Which Helps When?31:29 Breaking Down Men’s Mental Health Stages33:49 The Reality of Male Domestic Violence Support35:59 Creating Safe Spaces Without Gender Bias38:23 Gendered Support, Statistics & Compassion40:52 “A Victim Is a Victim” — Why Support Must Be Equal42:10 Balancing Passion, Empathy & Advocacy46:00 Closing Reflections & The Path Forward🎙️ 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/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@onwardshiftLinkedIn Page: https://www.linkedin.com/company/onward-shift/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/onwardshift/Learn more about the mental health support we offer:https://onwardshift.com
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    1 hr and 4 mins