The Housing Advocate

28: Hard Hats, Heavy Burdens: The Reality Behind Construction's High Suicide Rates

We are joined by Scott Carlson of Utah Safe Company, and founder of Safes for a Cause [https://safesforacause.com/] to discuss the profession that is most at risk for mental health struggles: the construction industry. According to the CDC, construction is the leading industry for suicide: Deaths by suicide occur at a rate of 45.3 per 100,000 for men in construction versus 14 per 100,000 for the general population. High levels of job strain, physical pain, stoic cultures, and isolation are just some of the root causes attributed to the diverse mental health challenges workers face. Scott has worked closely with SUHBA to develop the Wellness Playbook, which helps contractors, subcontractors, and team members put in to practice practical tips, and to find mental health resources. This playbook does not replace professional care. It makes it easier to find help, start conversations, and take the first step. *Trigger Warning: This episode contains discussions of suicide, substance abuse, mental health challenges, and other sensitive topics that some listeners may find difficult. If these topics may be triggering for you, please listen with care. Episode Resources: * SUHBA Wellness Playbook [https://suhba.com/wellness/] * Utah & National Resources [https://suhba.com/wellness/] * Safe Pillar Series [https://reg.learningstream.com/reg/event_page.aspx?ek=0090-0014-448b4330a8f348aba4a8e330baaa9cb7] If you or someone you know is in crisis: Call or Text 988 – A 24/7, Free, and Completely Confidential suicide and crisis line. --- The Housing Advocate is brought to you by the Southern Utah Home Builders Association. It is hosted by SUHBA’s Government Affairs Director, Stacy Young.

27: A City in Demand: Mayor Hughes on St. George Boom

In this episode, St. George Mayor Jimmie Hughes shares what it’s like leading one of the fastest-growing cities in the region. From the surge of new residents during COVID to the growing pains that followed, he discusses how the city is working to keep up with demand. Tune in for a candid conversation on growth, opportunity, and the future of housing in Southern Utah. Connect with us on social media: Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/thehousingadvocatepodcast/] Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/SUHBAworks4U/] YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@TheSUHBA/videos] www.suhba.com [www.suhba.com] The Housing Advocate is brought to you by the Southern Utah Home Builders Association. It is hosted by SUHBA’s Government Affairs Director, Stacy Young.

26: Meet SUHBA's 2026 President, Ashlee Weller Preston

We’re joined by SUHBA’s 2026 President, Ashlee Weller Preston, of Sunterra Construction. Coming from a long line of builders, Ashlee discovered her passion for construction at a young age and is now making history as the organization’s first female president. During her service, she is focusing on inspiring the next generation of builders and bringing more awareness to mental health in the industry. Connect with us on social media: ⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠ [https://www.instagram.com/thehousingadvocatepodcast/] ⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠ [https://www.facebook.com/SUHBAworks4U/] ⁠⁠⁠www.suhba.com⁠⁠⁠ [https://suhba.com/podcast/] The Housing Advocate is brought to you by the Southern Utah Home Builders Association. It is hosted by SUHBA’s Government Affairs Director, Stacy Young.

25: Land Use, Legislation & Utah's Housing Challenges (w/ Representative Neil Walter)

Utah is growing fast—and lawmakers like Representative Neil Walter play a crucial role in shaping the landscape. In this episode, Neil discusses his recent legislative work, including a new law sparked by one municipality's attempt to block a homeowner from participating in the St. George Area Parade of Homes. From protecting private property owners’ rights, to strengthening land use and housing policy, Neil and Stacy discuss how the collaboration of all stake holders is vital to resolving Utah's housing challenges (including Home Builders Associations, the League of Cities and Towns, and lawmakers alike.)   Tune in for a grounded, candid conversation about what’s changing, what needs work, and where Utah goes next.   Connect with us on social media: ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠ [https://www.instagram.com/thehousingadvocatepodcast/] ⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠ [https://www.facebook.com/SUHBAworks4U/] ⁠⁠www.suhba.com⁠⁠ [https://suhba.com/podcast/] The Housing Advocate is brought to you by the Southern Utah Home Builders Association. It is hosted by SUHBA’s Government Affairs Director, Stacy Young.

24: End of an Era: Ivins & Santa Clara Mayors Reflect on Years of Service, Utah's Housing Outlook

Stacy Young sits down with Mayor Chris Hart of Ivins and Mayor Rick Rosenberg of Santa Clara as they prepare to retire after many years of dedicated public service. Both leaders share insights from their time in office, reflect on the growth and challenges their communities have faced, and discuss what they see for the future of housing and development in Southern Utah. Connect with us on social media! ⁠Instagram⁠ [www.instagram.com/thehousingadvocate] ⁠Facebook⁠ [ https://www.facebook.com/SUHBAworks4U/] ⁠www.suhba.com⁠ [https://suhba.com/podcast/] The Housing Advocate is brought to you by the Southern Utah Home Builders Association. It is hosted by SUHBA’s Government Affairs Director, Stacy Young.