In this episode of Constructive Talk, host Daniel Carroll sits down with Ed Ross, co-founder of TradeMutt and TIACS, to talk about mateship, mental health, and how two tradies from rural Queensland are reshaping the way our industry connects.
From growing up in outback Queensland to launching a movement that’s helping thousands of workers open up about mental health, Ed shares the journey behind TradeMutt — the bold, conversation-starting workwear brand that’s turning shirts into life-saving tools.
What began as a tribute to a mate lost too soon has become a national movement, funding free counselling through TIACS (This Is A Conversation Starter). Together, they’ve created a powerful loop — where every shirt sold helps another tradie, truckie or farmer get the help they need.
Ed and Daniel dig into everything from the importance of mateship and connection, to breaking the “blokes don’t talk” myth, to practical ways leaders and teams can build a culture where checking in is just part of the job.
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Resources and links
If today’s conversation brought something up for you or someone you know, support is available:
TIACS (This Is A Conversation Starter) — Free, confidential counselling for tradies, truckies, farmers and their loved ones. Call or text 0488 846 988 (Mon–Fri, 8am–10pm AEST).
TradeMutt — trademutt.com
Watch Dan Allen’s TED Talk — “Changing the face of mental health, one work shirt at a time.”
Need to talk now?
📖 Ed's book recommendation: Atomic Habits by James Clear
