Episode 117: Dennis Gillan - Half A Sorrow Foundation

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how the conversation around tobacco use has changed and why many adults are still viewing today’s challenges through an outdated lens.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

Episode 113: Chelby Drafts - Miss Golden Corner

In this episode of the Just Say Something Podcast, Phil Clark welcomes Chelby Drafts, Miss Golden Corner and Miss South Carolina candidate, to discuss her passion for substance abuse prevention and the personal story that drives her work. Chelby shares how growing up with a parent struggling with addiction shaped her perspective and inspired her to create her initiative, Breaking Cycles: Prevention Before Intervention. The conversation highlights the importance of early prevention, strong support systems, and empowering young people to make their own choices despite peer pressure and environmental influences. Chelby emphasizes that while addiction can run in families, it does not have to define a person’s future, and that confidence, self-awareness, and community support play a critical role in prevention. Phil and Chelby also discuss their collaboration on upcoming prevention efforts, including initiatives focused on vaping awareness and youth education. The episode closes with a powerful message about courage, speaking up, and the impact of choosing a different path, reminding listeners that prevention starts with both personal decisions and community support. We've launched a new website we would love for you to check out: PreserveYourAir.com.