The Vindico Arena was the setting for Chambers Wales South East, South West and Mid’s latest Men’s Health Network event on 25 September. Dai Rees from Case-UK welcomed those in attendance, many of whom were first-time attendees, to the event which provides an opportunity for professionals to not only share wellbeing initiatives, but also draw from personal experiences to start thinking differently about how we approach wellbeing.
Taking accountability
Todd Kelman, owner of Vindico Arena and managing director of the Cardiff Devils ice hockey team, was the first speaker and shared his journey from the locker room to the boardroom. While he has drawn from his background as a professional hockey player, transitioning his leadership approach wasn’t as simple as applying what he had learned in sport to business. He had to adapt his methods and still continually evolves his charismatic yet straightforward management style to improve the way his team – both players and staff – interact.
Todd spoke in detail about the culture of accountability he has cultivated within the organisation. He emphasised the importance of team members recognising their roles in the success of the group and understanding that difficult conversations are sometimes necessary. These conversations, which are often avoided in traditional business settings, have been reframed as hot conversations: honest, open and trusting dialogues that foster direct and constructive feedback.
With this accountability, the team set their own non-negotiables and specific key performance indicators. This clarity of standards has improved team cohesion both on and off the ice, reducing behind the scenes conflicts that can occur in sports teams and office environments.
Boosting self-confidence
The second speaker of the morning’s line up was Daniel Newman, founder of Baldilocks. Dan has lived with alopecia since the age of 18 after a life-altering event had a profound effect on both his mental and physical health.
Drawing from his inspirational personal journey, Dan is now on a mission to help others with the condition regain their confidence, own their life and who they are, and glow! However, his mission extends beyond alopecia and he invites anyone facing life challenges to reach out to him, offering one-on-one coaching to assist individuals on their personal and professional journeys.
Dan is also passionate about combatting loneliness and stressed that no one should feel isolated or afraid to reach out for support. Dan challenged businesses to rethink the cost of wellbeing initiatives, posing the question ‘what is the cost of doing nothing?’ and highlighting the economic impact of mental health and wellbeing issues in the UK with staggering costs relating to absenteeism, presenteeism and staff turnover.
The Men’s Health Network will return in January. If you’re interested in attending, keep an eye on the Chamber’s upcoming events for further details.
