In this special episode of "Mental Health Today" recorded live at the Employee Mental Health Summit 2023 in San Francisco, host Ken Stearns interviews Cal Beyer, a renowned advocate for workplace mental health. Cal, with over 35 years of experience in safety and risk management, shares insights on addressing mental health stigma, the importance of employer support, and his own journey transitioning to independent consulting. Their conversation underscores the critical need for accessible resources and supportive work environments, urging employers to prioritize mental health as a cornerstone of their risk management strategy.
In this special episode of "Mental Health Today" recorded live at the Employee Mental Health Summit 2023 in San Francisco, host Ken Stearns interviews Cal Beyer, a prominent figure in workplace mental health and wellness. Cal is introduced as a multifaceted professional known for his roles as a communicator, catalyst, change agent, and coach, with a certification as a Wellness Practitioner (CWP). He is deeply involved in Human Capital Risk Management and Wellbeing, boasting over 35 years of experience in safety, risk management, and insurance across various industries, notably construction and manufacturing.
Among his many accomplishments, Cal was named a Top 25 ENR Newsmaker in 2016 for his work in catalyzing suicide prevention efforts within the construction industry. He possesses a unique blend of talents and strengths, including Maximizer, Arranger, Connectedness, Positivity, and Futuristic thinking, which he leverages to drive positive change and empower individuals and organizations.
Cal's expertise spans a wide range of areas, including mental health, suicide prevention, safety culture development, emergency preparedness, workers' compensation, and wellness program design. He has served on numerous advisory boards and committees, demonstrating his commitment to advancing mental health initiatives at both national and regional levels.
During the interview, Cal reflects on his recent transition from a demanding corporate role to independent consulting, driven by a desire for greater work-life balance and sustainability. He emphasizes the importance of addressing underlying issues such as substance misuse and addiction, which are often overlooked in discussions about mental health in the workplace.
Throughout the conversation, Cal and Ken discuss the challenges of addressing mental health stigma, the importance of accessible resources like crisis hotlines and employee assistance programs, and the transformative power of peer support and advocacy. They highlight the critical role of employers in creating supportive work environments that prioritize employee wellbeing and foster open dialogue about mental health issues.
As the interview concludes, Cal shares a message of hope and encouragement for anyone struggling with mental health challenges, emphasizing the availability of help and support. He invites listeners to connect with him on LinkedIn or via email and encourages employers to prioritize workplace mental health as a key component of their overall risk management strategy.
The episode concludes with Ken expressing gratitude for the insightful conversation and teasing future episodes featuring additional guests from the Employee Mental Health Summit.