Episode 118: Kimberly Tissot with Able - South Carolina

Episode 118: Kimberly Tissot with Able - South Carolina

In this episode of the Just Say Something Podcast, Phil Clark talks with Kimberly Tissot, CEO of Able South Carolina, about the organization’s mission to empower people with disabilities and create a more inclusive South Carolina. Kimberly explains how Able South Carolina helps individuals gain greater independence, understand their rights, navigate life transitions, and access the resources they need to thrive. The conversation explores the broad definition of disability and highlights the many barriers people with disabilities still face, from transportation and employment challenges to stigma and misconceptions. Kimberly shares how Able South Carolina works through education, advocacy, leadership development, and direct support services to help individuals and families overcome those barriers while promoting self-advocacy and inclusion. Phil and Kimberly also discuss the importance of listening to and learning directly from the disability community when developing programs, policies, and services. The episode is a powerful reminder that everyone deserves the opportunity to live with dignity, independence, and a sense of belonging, and that stronger communities are built when everyone has a seat at the table. Learn more about Able: https://www.able-sc.org/ [https://www.able-sc.org/] To be a guest on our podcast, email: phillip@justsaysomethingsc.org

Episode 117: Dennis Gillan - Half A Sorrow Foundation

In this episode of the Just Say Something Podcast, Phil Clark talks with Dennis Gillan, founder of the Half A Sorrow Foundation, about suicide prevention, mental health, and the personal experiences that led him to this work. Dennis shares the heartbreaking story of losing two brothers to suicide and how those losses eventually inspired him to dedicate his life to helping others navigate mental health challenges and recognize the signs of someone who may be struggling. Throughout the conversation, Dennis discusses the importance of breaking the silence around mental health, paying attention to warning signs, and trusting your instincts when something feels wrong. He explains that prevention starts with connection and that one of the most powerful things a person can do is ask a direct, caring question and truly listen to the answer. The episode also highlights the resources available to individuals and families in crisis, including local mental health organizations and the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. Above all, Dennis reminds listeners that no one has to face their struggles alone and that sometimes the simplest act of reaching out can make a life-saving difference. To learn more about Half a Sorrow Foundation: https://halfasorrow.org/ [https://halfasorrow.org/] JustSaySomethingSC.org

Episode 116: The Evolving Conversation On Tobacco

In this episode of the Just Say Something Podcast, Phil Clark reflects on how the conversation around tobacco use has changed and why many adults are still viewing today’s challenges through an outdated lens. While traditional cigarette use once dominated prevention conversations, vaping has reshaped the landscape with sleek devices, flavored products, and messaging that often makes nicotine use feel harmless or socially acceptable to young people. Phil explains how the accessibility and normalization of vaping can blur the line between experimentation and addiction, especially for teens whose brains are still developing. He also highlights the role stress, peer pressure, and misinformation play in these decisions, emphasizing that many young people are not fully aware of the risks they are taking. The episode encourages parents, schools, and communities to move beyond fear-based messaging and instead create honest, ongoing conversations rooted in trust and curiosity. As World No Tobacco Day approaches, Phil reminds listeners that prevention starts with engagement, consistency, and the willingness to have real conversations before misinformation fills the gap. Learn more on our site: PreserveYourAir.com

Episode 115: Tanner’s Hope

In this episode of the Just Say Something Podcast, Phil Clark talks with sisters Denise and Melissa, founders of Tanner’s Hope, a nonprofit created in memory of their father after he passed away from glioblastoma brain cancer. What began as a deeply personal journey has grown into an organization that provides financial assistance, practical guidance, and emotional support to families facing brain cancer diagnoses. Denise and Melissa share how travel costs, hotel stays, and time away from work can quickly become overwhelming when patients need specialized treatment outside the Upstate. Through Tanner’s Hope, they help remove some of those barriers so families can focus on care rather than logistics. They also connect families to national resources, clinical trial information, and second-opinion opportunities they wish they had known about during their own experience. The conversation is a moving reminder that even in the most difficult circumstances, personal loss can inspire meaningful support for others. Through advocacy, fundraising, and one-on-one connection, Tanner’s Hope is helping families know they do not have to face brain cancer alone. Learn more at https://tannershope.org/ #tannershope #justsaysomething #greenvillescnonprofit #braincancer

Episode 114: Rand Williams Greenville Elks 858 DAC Lead

In this episode of the Just Say Something Podcast, Phil Clark talks with Rand Williams of the Greenville Elks Drug Awareness Commission about the organization’s longstanding commitment to prevention, education, and community service. Rand shares how the Elks support youth and families through drug awareness initiatives, scholarship programs, sports competitions, and practical resources designed to help communities better understand emerging substance use trends. Rand also discusses his personal connection to this work, shaped by the impact of addiction within his own family. That experience fuels his passion for researching new and dangerous substances and translating complex information into accessible updates, including his widely shared “Elks Nuggets” emails that help parents, educators, and community members stay informed. The conversation highlights the broader mission of the Elks: raising funds to give back through scholarships, youth programs, veteran support, and prevention efforts. This episode is a powerful reminder that education, compassion, and community involvement can make a meaningful difference in the lives of young people and families. Learn more at PreserveYourAir.com