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
mental health. From championing authentic stories to creating safe spaces for open
dialogue, Russell explains how companies in the built environment can use their platforms
not just to sell, but to support, and why that matters now more than ever.
This episode is essential listening for marketers, brand managers, contractors, and anyone
who wants to use their voice to build something more meaningful in construction.
The Talking Tradesman:
This podcast is produced by dissident creative agency, the original disrupters of construction marketing. This podcast is born out of our passion to create conversations that push boundaries as hard as our content!
If breaking rules and standing out is your thing, we want to hear from you...
The Build Up
The Build Up is a podcast for marketers in the construction industry. Hosted by Daniel Moore, the Creative Director of dissident, a creative agency that creates disruptive content and social media marketing for some of the leading and most rebellious brands in the industry.
The Build Up is a podcast that puts a spotlight on the unique world of construction marketing.
Dan will be speaking to marketers of leading brands, other agencies, creatives, founders and influencers.
The series aims to highlight and give insights into key areas of construction marketing and provide insight for fellow marketers, founders and creatives in the space.
- No. of episodes: 18
- Latest episode: 2025-05-05
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