Transforming Construction Culture Through Mental Health Advocacy with Mike Nieto

Welcome back, everyone, to the Wellness Center Creators podcast. Today, we have Anna joining us as co-host and our special guest, Mike Nieto, a former construction company owner turned mental health advocate. Mike shares his fascinating journey from running a construction business to founding a nonprofit dedicated to mental health awareness in the construction industry. Mike opens up about his career in construction, the challenges he faced, and the pivotal moments that led him to prioritize mental health. He discusses the high incidence of suicide in the construction industry and his efforts to provide therapy and support for his employees through his nonprofit, Dig Deep. Mike's story is a testament to the power of vulnerability and the importance of creating a safe and supportive work environment. "What I found over my career was that I enjoyed building people more than I enjoyed building projects."

Mike opens up about his career in construction, the challenges he faced, and the pivotal moments that led him to prioritize mental health. He discusses the high incidence of suicide in the construction industry and his efforts to provide therapy and support for his employees through his nonprofit, Dig Deep. Mike's story is a testament to the power of vulnerability and the importance of creating a safe and supportive work environment.

"What I found over my career was that I enjoyed building people more than I enjoyed building projects."

We also delve into Mike's personal experiences with mental health and alternative therapies, including acupuncture, and how these have influenced his approach to leadership and wellness. Mike's passion for helping others and his commitment to making a difference in the construction industry are truly inspiring.

"I want to see the men and women of construction getting really good access to whether it's acupuncture, mental health services, naturopathic doctors, all these different kinds of modalities that were never talked about."

Whether you're a business owner, a wellness professional, or someone interested in mental health advocacy, this episode is packed with valuable insights and heartfelt stories. Tune in to learn more about Mike's third act and his vision for a healthier, more supportive construction industry.

- 00:25 - Mike Nieto has worked in the construction industry mostly all of his adult life

- 02:22 - A big part of your story is how passionate you are about mental health

- 10:04 - 53 out of every hundred thousand workers in construction commit suicide

- 14:59 - Mike M. is starting a nonprofit to help construction workers get help

- 17:53 - Mike talked about creating a culture of safety in the workplace

- 23:59 - Mike shares how acupuncture has impacted his life physically and mentally

- 28:57 - Mike Nieto talks about the third act of his life

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