In this episode, Kerry Smith Buck speaks with Frank King, former Tonight Show comedy writer turned suicide prevention speaker, about how to start conversations that can save lives in the construction industry. Drawing from his own lifelong battle with depression and near-suicide, Frank explains why construction has the highest suicide rate in the U.S., how to recognize warning signs on the jobsite, what not to say when someone is struggling, and why asking directly about suicide can be a critical intervention. With humor, honesty, and real jobsite stories, this episode highlights why mental health is a safety issue - and how anyone, at any level, can make a difference by starting the conversation.

In this episode, Kerry Smith Buck is joined by Dr. Colleen Saringer PhD and Scott Satory to explore why kindness is not just a “nice-to-have,” but a critical workplace safety and mental health strategy in construction. Drawing from Colleen’s lifelong ties to family-owned construction businesses and Scott’s experience leading a multimillion-dollar roofing company, the conversation examines how knowing your people, leading with empathy, setting healthy boundaries with clients, and adapting work practices to protect workers’ wellbeing can reduce risk, improve safety, and save lives. Together, they make a compelling case for kindness as a practical, cost-free tool that helps teams stay alert, supported, and able to go home safely at the end of the day.

Join us and learn how an increasing number of general contractors are adding in-house development services and expertise. City of O'Fallon, Missouri Director of Economic Development Patrick McKeehan walks us through this intriguing industry trend.