Russell Payne: The Talking Tradesman on Why Construction Marketing Needs to Get Personal

In this episode of The Build Up, host Dan, sits down with Russell Payne — third-generation

tradesman and host of The Talking Tradesman podcast — for an honest conversation about

the mental health crisis within the construction industry, and the role brands and marketing

can play in driving change.

Russell shares his powerful personal story: from growing up on the tools and running his

family painting and decorating business by 17, to facing struggles with mental health that

ultimately pushed him to become an advocate for change. What begins as a deeply personal

narrative expands into a wider discussion about how the construction industry, particularly

those shaping its public voice through branding and marketing, can help create a culture

where vulnerability isn’t a weakness, but a strength.

Together, Dan and Russell explore the opportunity that brands have to go beyond

surface-level messaging and build genuine connection by engaging with real issues like