🐾 Pack Mentality Spotlight: Chris Ryan – Championing Trades Community, Mental Health, and Smarter Work with Handily  🐾

 

Meet Chris Ryan (@handily.app)—a third-generation decorator, business owner, and founder of Handily, the digital platform making it easier for tradespeople to connect, find work, and hire without middlemen. Chris is passionate about building a stronger trades community, improving mental health in construction, and raising standards across the industry.

 

Why Did Chris Join The Pack?

Chris was first drawn to Jackal Workwear by the bold, no-nonsense workwear designs that actually look and feel right on site. But what really sealed the deal was Jackal’s commitment to community, well-being, and lifting the standard for tradespeople—a mission that perfectly aligns with Chris’s own work at Handily.

"Most workwear looks like it was made by someone who’s never stepped on a job. Jackal’s different. What sealed it for me was what you stand for—community, well-being, and raising the bar for tradespeople. That’s exactly what I’m building with Handily: a platform to help trades find each other and get work without all the middlemen and noise

 

How Did You Get Into the Trade?

Chris’s journey into the construction industry started the old-fashioned way: through family. His father, a decorator trained by his own grandfather, passed down the skills and work ethic that define Chris’s approach today.

"I learned on the job—long days, tough lessons, and tricks you won’t find in a course. Now I run a decorating business with my brother, and my son’s just started learning the ropes. Three generations in—we’re keeping it in the family

 

Weirdest On-Site Moment

The construction industry is full of surprises, but one story stands out for Chris:

"A guy rang me up looking for work—timing was perfect because I was struggling with a big project. He started strong, but then the client told me he’d been turning up at their house on weekends and sending them videos of himself out for dinner with his wife. No idea what the angle was. I got rid of him sharpish, and that was the end of it. Still haven’t figuredit out!

 

If You Were a Tool, What Would You Be?

Chris would be a digital tool—specifically, Handily.app:

"I’m building it for the trades—helping people find work or workers quickly, without jumping through hoops or paying to play. It’s fast, fair, and built by someone who’s been there. That’s the kind of tool I’d want to be—something that actually makes a difference

 

Dream Jackal Workwear Design

Chris wants to see a mental health-focused workwear line that’s raw and real—not corny or preachy. He believes the right design could spark honest conversations about mental health in construction and help break the stigma.

"There’s a huge gap here, and a good design could spark proper conversations. I’ve got a few ideas for this I’d be happy to share.”

 

Chris’s Question for The Pack

"Why do tradespeople keep accepting the pay-to-play setup in this industry—just to get graft or find decent workers?

 

Industry Insights from Chris Ryan

 

Mental Health in Construction

As both a tradesman and a registered psychotherapist, Chris has a unique perspective on mental health in the construction industry:

"The stress, pressure, and isolation are everywhere, but rarely talked about. We need more than awareness campaigns—we need accountability. Employers need to step up, check in properly, and create environments where people aren’t just expected to crack on no matter what. The culture needs a shift, and that won’t come from the top unless we start pushing from the ground.

 

Tool Theft in the Trades

Chris has been fortunate to avoid major tool theft himself, but he’s seen the devastating impact on others:

"Most lads are just trying to earn a living, and then their entire kit disappears overnight. We need stronger deterrents—harsher punishments, better security, and smarter tech to help track stolen gear. It’s a problem we’ve all either had or know someone who has.

 

Connect with Chris Ryan and Handily

Ready to find work or hire in the trades without the hassle?
Visit Handily.app or contact Chris directly at team@handily.app

Follow Chris on Instagram: @handily.app

 

Chris Ryan’s story is all about family, innovation, and pushing for a better, more supportive trades industry. Proud to have him in The Pack!

 

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