81. Breaking the Silence: Why Mental Health Conversations Matter in Construction with Nick Mair

In this episode of Building Doors, host Lauren Karan sits down with Nick Mair, founder of Pack Mentality Group and a rising voice for men’s mental health across construction, mining, and FIFO workforces. Nick opens up about his near-fatal mental health crisis, the moment Lifeline saved his life, and how that experience inspired him to build a movement centered around community, connection, and giving men a safe space to speak without judgment.Nick unpacks the hidden struggles workers face in high-pressure, male-dominated industries, from isolation and fatigue to identity shifts and societal expectations. Whether you lead teams, work onsite, or simply care about the well-being of people around you, this conversation will challenge you to rethink strength, connection, and what it means to show up for each other.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:The Truth About Men’s Mental Health:Why men are three times more likely to die by suicideThe silent toll of isolation, societal pressure, and identity shiftsHow stigma keeps men suffering alone and hiding behind “I’m fine”Why connection, not toughness, is the real antidoteInside the FIFO and Construction Reality:How long shifts, heat, fatigue, and remoteness impact mental healthWhy FIFO workers face unique guilt, stress, and relationship strainThe hidden dangers of financial pressure and “golden handcuffs”How simple support structures can change the culture on-siteBuilding Pack Mentality Group & The Power of the Pack:The story behind Pack Mentality Group and the “wolf pack” conceptWhy Nick created the onsite Wolf Chap and Wolf Angel rolesHow the Palmy Army gives men a safe space to talk openlyThe importance of catching subtle behavioural shifts earlyConnection, Identity & Living Your ValuesWhy our identity should not be tied to our job titleHow changing gender roles leaves many men feeling “lost”The danger of ignoring misalignment in your careerWhy removing the phone can transform any conversationKey Quotes from Nick Mair:“People don’t want to hear your obituary. They want to hear your story.”“Men want to be seen. They want to be heard. Just like everyone else.”“Fatigue is the biggest driver of poor mental health onsite.”“We’re losing connection through technology, and we’re not built for that.”“You’d be surprised how quickly a mate will show up when you say, ‘I’m not doing well.’”About Our Guest:Nick Mair is the founder of Pack Mentality Group, an organization dedicated to smashing the stigma around men's mental health. Through workplace sessions, Mental Health First Aid training, and community groups like the Palmy Army, Nick provides education, awareness, and safe spaces for men to be seen and heard. His mission is fueled by his own lived experience and a passion for ensuring no one feels as alone as he once did.About Your Host:Lauren Karan, founder of Karan & Co. and host of Building Doors, is dedicated to helping professionals unlock their potential. Through insightful interviews and real-life stories, Lauren empowers listeners to create opportunities and thrive in their careers.How You Can Support the Podcast:Subscribe and leave a 5-star rating on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.Share this episode with anyone interested in sustainability and leadership.Connect with Nick on LinkedIn and explore Pack Mentality Group’s mission.Stay Connected:Follow Lauren and the Building Doors podcast on LinkedIn.Subscribe to the Building Doors newsletter for exclusive content.Let’s Connect:Want to be a guest or share feedback? Email us at [email protected] you for listening! It’s time to stop waiting and start building.