Can hospitality thrive without mental wellness?
In this very special live episode of the Chef JKP Podcast, James Knight-Paccheco sits down with Scott Armstrong, journalist-turned-mental-health-advocate and founder of MENTL, to have an unfiltered, honest conversation about the state of mental health in the workplace - particularly in high-pressure industries like hospitality.
This episode dives deep into psychological safety, breaking down stigma, and how investing in mental health isn’t just the right thing to do - it’s good for business.
Scott shares his journey from global editorial roles to launching a platform that challenges cultures of silence and burnout. We also explore how leadership, open dialogue, and structural changes can drive well-being at every level of the team.
Tune In To Learn:
👩🍳 The critical link between mental health and team performance
👩🍳 Scott’s personal journey from journalism to wellness advocacy
👩🍳 The red flags of anxiety, burnout, and toxic leadership
👩🍳 How businesses can create a culture of psychological safety
👩🍳 What the upcoming Mental Health Awards mean for the industry
00:00 Live Podcast Announcement
03:02 Meet Scott Armstrong & His Journey
21:20 Global Journalism to Leadership Challenges
36:03 Shifting from Media to Mental Health Advocacy
46:36 Why Mental Health is a Business Imperative
01:04:09 Addressing Toxic Cultures & Workplace Stress
01:10:08 Mental Health in High-Pressure Environments
01:16:52 The Mental Health Awards & How to Nominate
01:23:34 The Power of Open, Honest Conversations
01:29:52 Quick Fire Round with Scott Armstrong
01:40:26 Final Thoughts & Farewell
You can learn everything about Scott's organisation by heading to - https://mentl.space/
A huge thank you to our partner Luvv Fits – luvvfits.com
🚨Catch more unfiltered conversations like this one at Timeout Market Dubai. Live recordings continue on April 20th and 27th - don’t miss your chance to be part of the audience!
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