Mental Health in Construction: Breaking the Stigma with Mike Scalamogna (Ep. 113)
Mental health struggles can be difficult to recognize and even harder to talk about, especially in environments where people feel pressure to stay tough and keep their emotions private.
In this episode, Josh Leonard talks with Mike Scalamogna, Manager, SD Digital at Schneider Downs and CFMA Western Pennsylvania Chapter Champion for Mental Health and Suicide Prevention, about losing his father to suicide and turning that experience into support for others. They explore mental health in construction, therapy, parenting, empathy, and why simply listening can help someone feel less alone. Mike also shares how a benefit concert is raising awareness and funds for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.
Key points:
- Why construction workers face serious mental health concerns alongside a culture that can discourage openness
- How Mike’s experience losing his father to suicide shaped his approach to mental health and helping others
- Why therapy, emotional awareness, and honest communication can become meaningful forms of personal care
- How parents can model emotional awareness and give children language for understanding what they’re feeling
- How volunteering and community involvement can create connection while supporting people experiencing loss
- And more!
Resources:
- Contact us to schedule a meeting with the team
- American Foundation for Suicide Prevention
- Get your tickets for the benefit concert and help support the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention
Connect with Josh Leonard:
- jleonard@leonardadvisorygroup.com
- LinkedIn: Josh Leonard
- Leonard Advisory Group
- 412-998-PLAN
- YouTube: Leonard Advisory Group
- Facebook: Leonard Advisory Group
Connect with Mike Scalamogna:
About our Guest:
Mike Scalamogna works in the digital practice at Schneider Downs, where he helps clients use technology across industries including construction, transportation and logistics, real estate, and dealerships. He is also involved with the Construction Financial Management Association (CFMA) Western Pennsylvania Chapter, where he serves as the Chapter Champion for Mental Health and Suicide Prevention. After losing his father to suicide as a teenager, Mike turned his personal experience into a commitment to raising awareness, reducing the stigma around mental health, and supporting others affected by suicide loss. His advocacy includes volunteering with the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention and organizing efforts that bring people together to support mental health and suicide prevention.
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