Dan Newman, His journey with Alopecia & the Baldilocks movement plus being in management within construction and the responsibilities towards staff mental health

In this conversation, Russ and Dan discuss Dan's businesses, Baldilocks and RSP Fire Sprinkler Systems, and the importance of fire safety in Wales. Find Dan & Balidilocks here https://www.instagram.com/baldilocks.me?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw== They also touch on the skills shortage in the construction industry and the need for diversity and inclusivity. They highlight the significance of providing adequate physical and mental health care in the workplace and the benefits it brings to productivity and employee well-being. The conversation emphasises the importance of creating a supportive and nurturing work environment. The conversation explores the importance of creating a safe space for employees to discuss mental health issues and the responsibility of employers to support their employees. It emphasises the need for leaders to be self-aware and empathetic, and highlights the impact of personal experiences on one's ability to understand and support others. The talk also touches on the normalisation of talking about suicide and the need for mental health training for managers. The guests share personal stories of their own struggles and the role of mentors in their lives. The importance of creating a safe space for people to talk and listen is highlighted. The act of listening without offering advice is seen as a valuable skill. It is emphasized that sometimes people just need a safe space to express their feelings and be heard. The concept of offloading emotional weight through talking is discussed, with the analogy of putting down a weight temporarily. The idea of using physical activities like drumming and exercise as a form of therapy is explored. The impact of trauma and grief, including inherited trauma, is acknowledged. The role of positive male role models in healing and growth is emphasised. Dan discusses the practical impact of alopecia, such as the loss of eyebrows and eyelashes, and the importance of understanding the condition. He highlights the psychological and emotional challenges faced by individuals with alopecia, as well as the need for more support and attention. Dan shares his personal journey with alopecia and how it led him to create the Baldilocks movement, which aims to provide a safe and welcoming space for people with hair loss. He discusses the various initiatives under the Baldilocks brand, including spa days and coaching services, and emphasises the importance of monetising the movement to sustain its impact. Stay tuned at the end of the episode for a short video from Dan on what Balidilocks has to offer