Mental Health in Brewing and Beers [with Yeastie Boy Stu McKinley]

Mental health has long plagued many sectors, but particularly those who choose to talk the path of hospitality. And - as we discovered from our recent mini-series The Under Beer Belly of #BrewersLife - there are many black dogs on the shoulders of bar staff, brewers and business owners alike. Throw an unprecedented global pandemic into the mix of a pre-existing storm and who knows what the long term prognosis will be for the well-being of those who choose to make and serve alcohol for living. Having had several rounds of counselling myself and being fascinated with human physiology, the topic of mental health in my line of professional work has been close to my heart for many years. I’ve both experienced the effects of mental ill-health and been a front seat spectator of colleagues and friends who have both suffered at the hands of depression, anxiety, and the like over many years. Whenever I’ve heard people speak out on the subject, which - let’s face it - often gets swept under the rug, I’ve said a yes and amen to anyone championing that cause. One of such people is none other than Stu McKinley from the Yeastie Boys. Stu is the kind of person you want to work for. Friendly, approachable, down-to-earth, and mindful about mental health, workplace well-being, and cultivating an environment by which you would willingly give above and beyond to. Stu is also a big advocator of mental health over the years, and in this episode - a discussion we ran out of time for during our last podcasting, which took place on a cold, dark evening within the womb-like taproom belonging to Saint Mars of the Desert - we talk about everything from the coronavirus pandemic and pubs reopening, to mental health, working remotely, and adopting good communication skills. --- TODAY'S EPISODE IS SPONSORED BY SSV Limited From tanks to full brewhouses SSV Limited has got you covered. In just 5 short years SSV Limited have established themselves as your go to partner to help you grow or launch your brewery. High quality tanks, parts, brewing kit, knowledge and experience to ensure your project runs smoothly from beginning to completion. Their online parts shop stocks well over 1000 essential brewing parts to ensure your brewery is kept up and running with the majority available on next day delivery. Visit their web shop on store.ssvlimited.co.uk and place your order today. --- BREWERY SHOUTOUT Led by founders Sam McGregor and Tom Bott, the Signature Brew team is made up of musicians and music fans alike and – with an unwavering commitment to quality – Signature Brew has channelled the spirit and energy of live music into a brewery that stands for craftsmanship, artistry and passion. Brewed in Walthamstow, enjoyed by beer lovers and music superfans globally, their beers are of unrivalled quality, and they were crowned SIBA's highly prestigious Brewery Business of the Year 2018. Head over to www.signaturebrew.co.uk and try Pink Vinyl as well as their other fantastic beers! --- Follow us on social media hopforward.beer to find out how we can get you ahead in the brewing and beer business through branding, marketing, and business development.