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In this powerful episode Dr. Vince Hafeli takes us from thejobsite to the boardroom — and into the hard, honest work of healing. Vince shares a 40-year career in construction (starting 1985), his long journey to formal education (a bachelor’s completed after 16 years), rapid leadershipgrowth at Ajax (General Manager within a year of joining in 2002; VP in 2007; President in 2019), and why he pursued a DBA at the University of South Florida — the joke is partly so his kids would call him “Doctor,” but really to reinvigorate his thinking and use research to make a difference.
The heart of the conversation is Vince’s courageous researchand advocacy on mental health and suicide in the construction industry. He opens up about his own suicide attempt, how qualitative research gave him a path to listen and document the stories of others, and how telling those stories has translated into real change- his talks to 100+ groups, raising awareness, and shifting industry culture one conversation at a time.
Key takeaways
- Leadership is more than title — it’s using lived experience to influence culture and policy.
- Mental health is health: seeking help (therapy) is a strength, not a weakness.
- Data and stories together move industries; qualitative research gives voice to people who’ve been told to “tough it out.”
- Small visible actions (awareness campaigns, open conversations, accessible supports) create momentum for change.
Notable quote
“We talk about protecting workers from physical harm — we need to give the same seriousness to protecting minds.”
This episode is essential listening for construction leaders, site crews, safety and HR professionals, qualitative researchers, and anyone committed to ending the stigma around mental health—because Vince’s lived experience and DBA research turn raw stories and hard data into practical steps that can change workplace culture and save lives. Tune in to hear candid lessons from the jobsite to the boardroom and to learn simple, powerful actions you can take: share this episode with your teams, raise mental-health supports at your next safety meeting, and push your organization to make resources visible and accessible.
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Until next time—keep learning, keep leading!
