Podcast appearances and mentions of dennis gillan

In Part 2 of our conversation with mental health advocate Dennis Gillan, we shift from story to action. Learn practical ways to support your own mental health, recognize when a brother is struggling, and build a Chapter culture that leads with care.Real tools. Real talk. Real Brotherhood.

In this powerful episode of Choptalk, we sit down with Dennis Gillan, Founder and Executive Director of the Half a Sorrow Foundation and nationally recognized mental health speaker.Dennis shares his deeply personal journey through loss, healing, and advocacy—and offers practical, heartfelt advice for how we can better support ourselves and each other. From the weight of silence to the life-saving power of a simple check-in, this episode dives into what it means to truly show up for your brothers.

On episode 520 of the Fraternity Foodie Podcast, we have for you a great program called "Healing Together: Navigating Post-Election Stress and Uplifting Our Students" with mental health expert Brittany Richmond and the Executive Director of Half a Sorrow Foundation, Dennis Gillan. We'll discuss how we can manage our personal and professional stress, uplift students in a divisive climate, build campus resilience, implement effective self-care, as well as long-term mental health planning and resources. Brittany Richmond is a dynamic and charismatic mental health expert with over a decade of experience. Diagnosed with multiple anxiety disorders, including an impulse control disorder, right after high school, she was inspired to enter the fields of counseling and psychology. Brittany has since dedicated herself to ending the stigma surrounding mental health and reaching out to as many struggling young people as possible with her story and voice. Dennis Gillan is a national thought leader on the topic of suicide prevention and mental health advocacy. Unfortunately, he has been deeply touched by suicide after the loss of both of his brothers to suicide, eleven years apart. He has worked on the suicide prevention hotline, he is an author, he is a TEDx speaker, but his real calling is helping to improve mental health by promoting real conversations. Dennis is the executive director of a non-profit called the Half a Sorrow Foundation.

Join us as we close out mental health awareness month with Dennis Gillan, founder of Half a Sorrow Foundation, a non-profit focused on suicide prevention. Dennis tackles the difficult topic of grief and keeping others safe, even if you're not a mental health expert. He manages to bring levity and insight to this critical topic. Please note this episode covers potentially triggering topics, such as suicide, depression, and loss.

#100: to have Dennis Gillan join the podcast. Dennis is the Executive Director of the Half a Sorrow Foundation, a foundation that strives to improve the mental health of individuals and organizations through conversation. He also has a TedX Talk and is the author of the book Nice Shoes!: A Little Compliment Can Go a Long Way, which we will link below. During the episode, Dennis speaks about losing two of his brothers to suicide and how that impacted his own mental health. He truly embodies the belief that an open dialogue with others will help break the stigma surrounding talking about your own mental health and we are honored to have him as our guest for such a milestone episode!TW: Suicide

Vince introduces a good friend Dennis Gillan who brings forward an important message of suicide prevention. We also talk about Vince's Army career starting with his experience at West Point and culminating with a multi-decade career serving our country. Vince continues to serve to this day working with non-profit organizations as a consultant. It is with this work that he first learned of Dennis and his story. Vince is on a mission to make sure we all focus on mental well-being and positivity. 

Dennis Gillan lost 2 brothers to suicide in the span of 11 years. It took him a long time before he could talk about this loss. Now he has started a non-profit organization called HalfASorrow.org to educate people about suicide prevention.In this episode Dennis shared how he began to address the problem initially by volunteering on a suicide hotline. It took awhile before he could talk about what happened to his own brothers.The rate of completed suicides is higher than the national average in the 55-64 year old age range. Illness is a big factor in this group, as is loneliness. As we age we tend to lose friends, we lose groups we were once part of. We lose connection and purpose.Dennis shared some of the warning signs a person might exhibit when they are contemplating suicide. He also gave us some tips on how to address our concerns directly to the person we suspect is having these thoughts.The nation-wide suicide prevention hotline is 988.Episode Takeaways:If you suspect someone is contemplating suicide, ask them, "are you ok? are you thinking about suicide?"If they say yes, ask if they have a plan. Then find a way to get them to talk about reasons to live (like a pet, a child, etc)How to volunteer for a suicide hotlineThanks so much for listening.Subscribe on Apple Podcast, Stitcher , Google Podcast. or SpotifyFollow us on Facebook and InstagramYou can email me with questions or comments at wendy@heyboomer.biz–Wendy Green is a Certified Life Coach, working with people going through thesometimes uncomfortable life transition from full-time work to “what's next.”Find out more about Wendy's 6-week “What's Next Transition” Coaching workshop–You can reach Dennis Gillan at dennis@halfasorrow.orgOr check out the website www.halfasorrow.org

How does one walk the path of giving hope of life to people, while losing his own brothers to suicide? That is Dennis Gillan for you, folks! The xMonks Drive brings to you the story of Dennis Gillan who turned his misery into a mission. Listen to him, as he takes us on his personal journey of being a reluctant warrior, masking his grief for 16 years to establishing his own suicide prevention foundation–Half A Sorrow.Dennis Gillan is an ordinary guy with an extraordinary story of loss, perseverance, and healing. Dennis helps tear down the walls of silence which have surrounded the issues of mental health, depression, and suicide. He infuses his passion and humour into a tough subject which touches everyone in the audience.Dennis Gillan is a thought leader on the topic of Suicide Prevention and Mental Health Advocacy. He travels internationally speaking, raising awareness, and opening up the conversation of mental health. He is the Executive Director of Half A Sorrow Foundation.  Dennis has been deeply touched by suicide after the losses of two of his brothers to suicide 11 years apart. After years of sitting on the sidelines, he jumped into helping those in need by working on the suicide prevention hotline when he lived in Chicago. After moving to South Carolina, Dennis got involved with several non-profits that take on mental health issues and this allows him to lobby lawmakers and raise awareness by sharing his story.Dennis has a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from West Virginia University and a work history rich in influence and persuasion.

Today I talk with Dennis Gillan. Dennis's mission and story starts with his family. Eleven years apart he lost both of his brothers to suicide. He handled both differently, the death of his older brother by leaning on substances and the death of his younger brother by therapy and sobriety. He worked behind the scenes of suicide prevention for years but would never talk about his brothers. Until a fundraiser in 2010, Dennis started to talk… and that is the story we talk about today. Dennis started the Half a Sorrow Foundation to further his suicide prevention mission and he recently wrote a children's book titled Nice Shoes! A little compliment can go a long way. Dennis Gillan: https://dennisgillan.com/a-suicide-story/ Nice Shoes! A little compliment can go a long way https://www.amazon.com/Nice-Shoes-little-compliment-long/dp/1685156967 Sponsored by Engineered Sleep! Use code LIVE15 to get 15% off your order. https://engineeredsleep.com

Dennis Gillan and Stephen Pihl are co-authors of the newly released children's book: "Nice Shoes." This book introduces the concept of mental health and overcoming hard days to children through unique storytelling and beautiful pictures. This story is based on Stephen's experience battling mental health as a child, and shows that a little kindness can go a long way. Dennis and Stephen share where the motivation for this book came from, why talking about mental health with children is so important, and a little bit about their own experiences with mental illness. 

We continue our heartfelt conversation in part II of our chat with special guest, Dennis Gillan. Dennis has the unfortunate distinction of having lost two brothers to suicide over the span of eleven years. Though Dennis has known true hardship, one thing that sticks out when you speak with him is that he still holds on to great hope. Dennis mentions time and again that he "had to keep living." In order to keep going, he had to find a way to live through his pain and regain joy.

Losing one brother to suicide is an unimaginable grief. Our guest today, Dennis Gillan, lost two brothers to suicide over the span of 11 years. Dennis has transformed his misery into his mission and now runs a suicide prevention organization called Half a Sorrow Foundation. As a junior in college, the last thing in the world that was on Dennis' mind was death, but then he got a call from his sister to return home. Their eldest brother, Mark, had died by suicide. Eleven years after Mark died, Dennis's younger brother, Matthew, also ended his life. Dennis describes the impossible task of trying to pick up the pieces, seeking professional mental healthcare for himself, and his decision to finally share his experience with others. 

Dennis Gillan is a survivor of suicide loss-times two! Dennis lost both his older and younger brothers to suicide 11 years apart. Despite being grief-stricken, after some time, he began to speak openly about the loss of his brothers. He realized that by talking about them, lives could be changed and saved. Listen here as he bravely tells his story which led to some major life changes and the creation of Half a Sorrow Foundation. The goal is to improve mental health for individuals and organizations by promoting real conversations. Dennis speaks to organizations worldwide and is no doubt changing the way we talk about mental health and suicide.One of the most dynamic speakers on mental health and suicide prevention out there. An expert by experience, Dennis uses his losses to help better this world by reducing the stigma associated with mental illness. A must-see speaker who can captivate any audience. Hire Dennis for corporate gigs where he will review how he used an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) to get back on his feet! Tough subject, but what a great speaker. www.dennisgillan.comIn demand and he always delivers.....book Dennis today! Contact: Dennis@dennisgillan.comwww.dennisgillan.comTwitter: @dgillanInstagram: dennisgillanFB: https://www.facebook.com/DennisGillanSpeaker/

Giving his pain a purpose was the lesson this week's guest, Dennis Gillan, learned when he took his tentative first steps as a suicide prevention speaker – as a man whose two brothers took their own lives 11 years apart. Gillan shares the devastation he experienced in the aftermath of his brothers' suicides – but also the strength and hope he's found by embracing what he's discovered is the call on his life: to inspire others to how to use the trauma of their crucibles to live lives of significance. The one practical tip you want to make extra sure you listen for? The Purple File.   To learn more about Dennis Gillan and his nonprofit the Half a Sorrow Foundation, visit www.halfasorrow.org   To order Warwick Fairfax's book CRUCIBLE LEADERSHIP: EMBRACE YOUR TRIALS TO LEAD A LIFE OF SIGNIFICANCE, and to explore other helpful resources, visit www.crucibleleadership.com  

How are you, really? ~ Dennis Gillan How often do you say or hear the sentence, “How are you?” We say it and are asked it so much that it barely registers, eliciting an automatic “I'm good” or “Fine.” But are you really? And when you ask someone else how they are, do you really listen? Dennis Gillan knows the importance of real conversation and real listening. After suffering the loss of two brothers to suicide, Dennis knew that he had to try and make conversation– especially around mental health–meaningful.  Grief is a part of life, and when we recognize its impact and let it do its work, we come away stronger, kinder and more compassionate. When we share our struggles with those who care, our burden is lighter. Tune in to hear more from Dennis about his Half a Sorrow foundation, based on the Swedish proverb that “A shared joy is a double joy; a shared sorrow is half a sorrow.” It's time to end the stigma of mental health issues with real conversation. Listen in here and let us know how you are–really! XO KS & MFB

Dennis Gillan is a national thought leader on the topic of Suicide Prevention and Mental Health Advocacy. He travels internationally speaking, raising awareness, and reducing the stigma surrounding mental health. Dennis has been deeply touched by suicide after the losses of two of his brothers to suicide 11 years apart. After years of sitting on the sidelines, he jumped into helping those in need by working on the suicide prevention hotline when he lived in Chicago. After moving to South Carolina, Dennis got involved with several non-profits that take on mental health issues and this allows him to lobby lawmakers and raise awareness by sharing his story. Dennis did a TEDx talk on loneliness and recently started his own non-profit called the Half a Sorrow Foundation. You can find out more here:  http://www.halfasorrow.org/ (www.halfasorrow.org) Fb: dennisgillanspeaker Instagram: Dennisgillan Twitter: Dgillan TEDx talk:  https://youtu.be/9NES3hSNv6o (https://youtu.be/9NES3hSNv6o)  Support this podcast

When fires ignite, cancers attack, or tragedies strike, we lean into our community for support, prayers and love. But often when the invisible challenges of depression, bipolar disorder, or mental illness arise, we feel we've got to quietly shoulder the weight alone. September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month. And because my family, the families of my co-workers, and the families of innumerable friends have been directly impacted by both mental health challenges and suicide, we wanted to bring to light what too often remains castigated to the dark. Listen to Dennis Gillan's story on Live Inspired Podcast ep. 46 here. If you or someone you know needs help, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255).

Today I had the pleasure of interviewing Dennis Gillan.  Dennis is the Executive Director at Half A Sorrow Foundation, as well as an advocate for mental health and a speaker. We will be discussing a very tough subject today, suicide.  But this topic needs to be addressed so that we can reach more people and help stop the cycle of pain that leads to suicide, and show people how important it is to take care of your mental health. Dennis is not only an advocate, but he has also lived through the pain of losing family to suicide. By hearing his story and how determined he is to help those around him work through their issues and learn to handle life's hard times without resorting to suicide, further justified to me how important mental health really is.  It was a very eye-opening conversation, and all I can say is that we are blessed to have someone like Dennis to help guide all of us on how to support our mental health, as well as the people around us. Main topics we discuss: Risk factors Warning signs Positive Coping Skills Mental Health Awareness To learn more about Dennis, visit his links below: Dennis Gillan Instagram Dennis Gillan Facebook Half a Sorrow Foundation Links for suicide prevention: American Foundation for Suicide Prevention www.afsp.org  National Alliance on Mental Illness www.nami.org Mental Health America https://mhanational.org/  Safety Plans:  https://dennisgillan.com/safety-planning/ To learn more about my coaching, photography, podcast, and to stay connected, visit me at: Alisha Crossley Website Alisha Crossley Photography Website Alisha's Amazon Favorites List Alisha Crossley Photography Instagram Alisha Crossley Official Instagram The Artisan's Advantage Coaching Program  

Today's episode features Dennis Gillan, Executive Director of Half a Sorrow Foundation, Tedx speaker and friend of the Keeley Companies. Dennis shares about mental health and suicide prevention to companies and organizations speaking from his personal story. You can connect with Dennis at his website, the Half a Sorrow website or on LinkedIn.

Dennis is the Executive Director of the Half of Sorrow Foundation.   http://dennisgillan.com/   -------------------------------------- Website: https://centerforsuicideawareness.org/ Text HOPELINE to 741741 for free text based emotional support Podcast RSS Feed: https://feed.podbean.com/centerforsuicideawareness/feed.xml Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CenterForSuicideAwareness Twitter: @Cntr4Suicide  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cntr4suicide/ Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/centerforsuicideawareness Discord: https://discord.gg/VAv2qCF https://www.mentalhealthnewsradionetwork.com/ Alitu Referral: https://alitu.com?fp_ref=centerawareness        

The Living Full Out Show with Nancy Solari can assist you in managing and learning from loss. Maybe you are struggling with letting go of a past relationship. Perhaps you want to go after a certain career, but you feel like it’s out of reach. By embracing change and determining what knowledge you can gain from it, you have the power to move forward and thrive.Our first caller, Leslie, needs advice on how to find the motivation to complete certain tasks, while maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Nancy recommends she break down big projects in her mind and conquer one small aspect of it at a time, remembering what it feels like to finish them. Listen in to hear how you can become clear in your objectives in order to accomplish your goals. Our second caller, Talia, is looking for advice on what she can do to maintain a positive mindset each day. Nancy suggests Talia remind herself what she is working and fighting for, whether it be a delicious dinner or a vacation, whenever she feels down. Tune in to hear how you can create a community and mindset that will support you in challenging circumstances. Our inspirational guest, Dennis Gillan, was a junior in college when he got an unexpected phone call that his older brother, Mark, had passed away from suicide. Dennis started using alcohol and other substances as a coping mechanism. Eleven years later, Dennis got another call that his younger brother, Matthew, had also committed suicide. Now, Dennis is sober and speaks out about mental health and suicide to spread awareness on this issue. Listen in to learn how Dennis turned his tragedies into triumph. Our final caller, Juliana, needs advice on how to stay motivated during these unprecedented times. Nancy reminds Juliana that she has the power to try something new and to embrace change. Tune in to hear how you can navigate and grow from the obstacles you face.Maybe you feel stuck in a rut at work. Perhaps you are struggling with the loss of a pet or family member. By reaching out for support from friends and family or taking time to step back and look at the situation, you can move forward, heal and live full out.

Dennis Gillan is a mental health advocate and motivational speaker. Dennis discusses Movember, men's mental health awareness, as well as discussing why the construction industry faces such high rates of suicide compared to other industries. Movember takes place during the month of November and is dedicated to men's mental health awareness. We can all do our part by spreading awareness to mental health and simply by checking in our friends, family, and acquaintances. "Life is worth living" - Dennis Gillan Listen to this episode and the rest of the Builder Funnel Radio podcasts here: https://info.builderfunnel.com/builder-funnel-radio/supporting-mens-health-in-residential-construction

Welcome to episode # 101 of Fraternity Foodie! My guest today is Dennis Gillan, an ordinary guy with an extraordinary story of perseverance. As a professional mental health speaker, Dennis brings his inspirational story to audiences and venues anywhere and everywhere. Though he is not a licensed counselor, he is able to communicate his message and story to an audience who needs healing. We find out what it was like for Dennis to grow up in Rockland County, New York (same hometown as me), why Dennis chose West Virginia University for his undergraduate experience, what was special about Phi Sigma Kappa Fraternity, how he handled the phone call as a Junior in college that his older brother Mark died by suicide, what it was like 11 years later to get another phone call that his younger brother Matthew also died by suicide, how Dennis' first presentation on mental health went, the warning signs of mental distress, what is QPR, and how Dennis is training his brain to lean towards Posttraumatic Growth. You're going to love this interview! Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fow8wU1jS20 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fow8wU1jS20

Episode 43! Buy Stakes Is High by Mychal Denzel Smith! This week's episode begins with my thoughts on the election and where we go from here. Congrats to Kamala Harris for becoming the first woman to hold one of the two highest positions in our government and the first Black and South Asian VP. Please, please. please don't tell me you're looking forward to things going "back to normal". The interview in this episode is with Dennis Gillan. Dennis has been working for decades to end the stigma around discussing issues of Mental Health and Suicide and helping prevent those tragic deaths. You can learn more at his website. The Shout Out is from Aphroditi (Didi) Mamaligas! Follow her on Twitter and Instagram. Stick around after the interview for today's Choose Your Card and Good Egg. This week's Good Egg: Read something by a Black author! Keep filling out the survey (link below, or at the podcast website, www.JayShifman.com) and leave a review (link below or at https://ReviewThisPodcast.com/Choose-Your-Struggle) to get up to two entries per person for the 2nd giveaway. You have until the last episode of the season (early December) to enter. Winner gets a Choose Your Struggle Tank Top! Speaking of which, Tank Tops are in! You can see what they look like on the website (thanks to my wife for modeling the women's cut). Reach out through the website to order. Patreon supports get a discount so join Patreon! Podcast Survey: https://forms.gle/9xbdZUHvcSrxHEEt6. Support the Podcast: https://www.patreon.com/ChooseYourStruggle?fan_landing=true. Review the Podcast: https://ReviewThisPodcast.com/Choose-Your-Struggle. Support the Podcast, a different way: https://podhero.com/401017-ikv. My Sponsor Boston Hempire: https://www.bostonhempire.com/?ref=jayshifman My Sponsor Mountain Made: https://mountainmadecbd.com/ My Sponsor Four Sigmatic (10% off with Code Choose Your Struggle) My Sponsor Pair of Thieves (Use Code RAKUTENTHIEVES For 20% Off) My Sponsor KeaBabies: www.keababies.com As always, you can find more at my links: https://jay.campsite.bio/ --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/jay-shifman/message

Dennis Gillan joins the pod to discuss his personal journey to becoming a mental health advocate, what it was like coming to the mountain state for the first time and much more!

I was obsessed earlier this year with Malcolm Gladwell's book, "Talking to Strangers." In processing through the information I started to think about loneliness and mental health--especially for those of us working in nonprofit and mission-driven leadership. This provided the context for an interview with Dennis Gillan. Dennis and I were speakers at TEDx Hickory in November 2019, and his talk on suicide prevention presented the topic with gentle humor and warmth. I've been wanting to share his story with the Virtual Executive Director audience ever since, and this was our chance.   Suicide is not a simple matter for research and curiosity, so I'm glad we were able to talk about it with openness and without the hushed tones one reserves for delivering bad news in front of strangers. That said, if you or someone you know is thinking or behaving in a way that has you worried, please call 800-273-8255. This is the number for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline.   Links and resources for this week:   National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/ Dennis Gillan's website: http://dennisgillan.com/ Suicide prevention resources: https://themighty.com/suicide-prevention-resources/ "Talking to Strangers" by Malcolm Gladwell (affiliate link): https://amzn.to/2QOG8l2 Executive Director Mastermind Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ExecutiveDirectorMastermind/ Dennis Gillan's TEDx Hickory talk, "Dying Alone": https://youtu.be/9NES3hSNv6o Application to work with me: https://forms.gle/7FcFxCFBQE6cpDVg8 Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beckybrettcaldwell/

Dennis Gillan describes himself as an ordinary guy with an extraordinary story of loss, perseverance, and healing. After losing two brothers to suicide, Dennis is on a mission to prevent suicide and be a catalyst for a larger conversation around mental health.

Adam saw Dennis' Ted Talk and knew he had to reach out and learn more and see if there was a fit for a podcast. Did Dennis have more to say beyond what he told us in the Ted Talk. It turns out he did. Much more.

I've been obsessed over the past couple of weeks with Malcolm Gladwell's book, "Talking to Strangers." In processing through the information I started to think about loneliness and mental health--especially for those of us working in nonprofit and mission-driven leadership. This provided the context for an interview with Dennis Gillan. Dennis and I were speakers at TEDx Hickory this past November, and his talk on suicide prevention presented the topic with gentle humor and warmth. I've been wanting to share his story with the Virtual Executive Director audience ever since, and this was our chance.   Suicide is not a simple matter for research and curiosity, so I'm glad we were able to talk about it with openness and without the hushed tones one reserves for delivering bad news in front of strangers. That said, if you or someone you know is thinking or behaving in a way that has you worried, please call 800-273-8255. This is the number for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline.   Links and resources for this week:   National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/ Dennis Gillan's website: http://dennisgillan.com/ Suicide prevention resources: https://themighty.com/suicide-prevention-resources/ "Talking to Strangers" by Malcolm Gladwell (affiliate link): https://amzn.to/2QOG8l2 Executive Director Mastermind Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ExecutiveDirectorMastermind/ Dennis Gillan's TEDx Hickory talk, "Dying Alone": https://youtu.be/9NES3hSNv6o  

Welcome to The Main Thing. This is your new 9-minute podcast.  I'm your host Skip Lineberg.  I've set out to interview the wisest people I know. We will see what we can learn from each one when they are faced with an incredibly difficult, soul-piercing question. My guest today is Dennis Gillan. About 5 years ago, Dennis left his lucrative corporate job as a pharmaceutical rep to take a leap of faith, to pursue his mission, his life's calling. Today, Dennis is a mental health advocate, consultant to businesses and an accomplished public speaker. He is a thought-leader and a passionate, tireless champion for suicide prevention. In this latest episode, you will discover what inspired Dennis' major change of path. You'll also find out what unique morsel of wisdom he has chosen to share with us. Resources & References Poem referenced by Dennis “Along the Road” by Robert Browning Hamilton can be found here. Check out Dennis Gillan's promo video to explore his broad range of speaking engagements and capabilities. You can connect with him via his website where you can learn more about his unique story and his mission.  Connect with Show Host Skip Lineberg on LinkedIn or via Twitter @lineberg. Credits Graphic Designer Emma Malinoski Editor and Technical Advisor Bob Hotchkiss

There are many adversities we face in life. Some of outward-facing while many are scars we carry on the insides of our hearts. Today's guest can speak to both. Jonathan Lopez is an Army Infantry veteran + member of Operation Enduring Warrior (OEW). OEW is a veteran-founded non‐profit whose mission is to honor, empower, and motivate our nation’s wounded military and law enforcement veterans through physical, mental and emotional rehabilitation. Jonathan joins us for a raw, emotional and honest conversation about serving our country, learning how to accept unexpected circumstances + challenges in life and inspiring others to do the same. (Thank you to Live Inspired community member Martina for sharing her special relationship Jonathan, his connection her late son Thomas + the work OEW is doing in our communities. Share your guest recommendations with us at podcast@johnolearyinspires.com) SHOW NOTES: According to the 2019 National Veteran Suicide Prevention Annual Report, more than 16 United States veterans die by suicide every day. At 17 years old, Jonathan joined the Army seeking brotherhood + community, something that was lacking in his life. During Special Forces Training, Jonathan realized the community he always sought was already in the barracks + quit. Days later, Jonathan was involved with a head-on motorcycle accident that resulted in 17 fractures in his left leg, broke every rib on his left side + the amputation of his left arm. Finding peace: "Not too long ago, I let go. It was one of the most liberating things."  Jonathan's focus + determination on rehabilitating his leg helped him cope with the loss of his arm. Unleashing a monster: While rehabilitating his leg, Jonathan became addicted to opioids, which eventually led to a suicide attempt. "Figuring out how to do things with one hand is not that complicated. Mental rehabilitation is hard." Redemption: During induction to Operation Enduring Warrior's Masked Athlete Team, Jonathan's mentor Jeff Farmer presented an opportunity for redemption.   "Face your obstacles, smile + get it over with." Jonathan attempted suicide not wanting his children to grow up with a "deadbeat father". Today, he's choosing to live because of his kids. Learn more about Operation Enduring Warrior here. If you or someone you know needs help, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255). Other Live Inspired Podcast guests have shared about suicide prevention + awareness. Kevin Hines speaks of overcoming his "brain pain" + thriving in spite of mental illness on ep. 164.  Dese'Rae Stage speaks about sharing stories of other suicide attempt survivors on ep. 156.  Dennis Gillan discusses the loss of two brothers to suicide on ep. 46.  JONATHAN LOPEZ'S LIVE INSPIRED 7 1. What is the best book you’ve ever read? Raising Men: Lessons Navy SEALs Learned from Their Training and Taught to Their Sons by Dina Santorelli and Eric Davis. 2. What is a characteristic or trait that you possessed as a child that you wish you still exhibited today? I was never afraid of the unknown. 3. Your house is on fire, all living things and people are out. You have the opportunity to run in and grab one item. What would it be? Nothing. Part of my evolution in life has to become a minimalist, be purer and not be attached to anything. 4. You are sitting on a bench overlooking a gorgeous beach. You have the opportunity to have a long conversation with anyone living or dead. Who would it be? My grandmother. 5. What is the best advice you’ve ever received? My grandmother taught me to plant a tree, write a book and have children. My friend Scott encourages me to leave my footprints to guide others. 6. What advice would you give your 20-year-old self? Nothing. It would change where I am today. 7. It’s been said that all great people can have their lives summed up in one sentence. How do you want yours to read? Die first, then quit.  *** Did you enjoy today's episode? Share it with your friends! Then subscribe, rate + review on Apple Podcasts. Live Inspired with John daily on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn, Pinterest, Instagram + get his Monday Motivation email.  

Dennis Gillan is a professional mental health speaker and suicide prevention activist.  Gillan's personal story with the suicide of his two brothers has touched the lives of many around the globe.  His mission is to raise awareness about mental illness, the affects of suicide on our lives and to make sure everyone knows the signs of mental illness in a friend or colleague, so we can prevent suicide in our communities.  He’s able to communicate his message and experiences of hurt to help an audience who might need healing. In this episode, Gillan discusses the signs of suicide and how we can help those in need. Later, Ayla joins Desi and Taya to dive into some deep emotional thoughts on mental health, suicide, and helping those that are closest to us. CONNECT WITH ​Dennis: ​INSTAGRAM TWITTER FACEBOOK Follow Award Winning Culture : Twitter Instagram **Award Winning Culture is Sponsored by: CharacterStrong Use the Code AWC and get $200 off the Advisory Curriculum or $100 off the Leadership Curriculum ***If you are concerned about the  emotional or physical safety of yourself  or someone else, talk to a trusted adult: *parent *counselor *teacher *office staff   National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255) or text HOME to 741741 MY3 Suicide Prevention App Richland School District Online Tip Reporting System Online: http://1610.alert1.us Email: 1610@alert1.us Text & Phone: (509) 392-4668 RSD access code is 1610

1.3 million Americans attempted to take their own life in 2016. 45,000+ of those lives were lost. [2019 CDC Report.] Nine years ago, if you’d searched for a community of suicide-attempt survivors, you couldn’t have found one. Our guest Dese'Rae Stage knows because she looked and, when her search came up empty, decided to do something about it. Dese’Rae is a photographer, two-time suicide survivor, just shy of having a Ph.D. in suicidology and psychology and the founder of Live Through This. She created this movement to capture portraits and stories of suicide attempt survivors and in doing so – change the conversation, culture, and resources around suicide prevention, awareness, and support. In a season where suicide is on the rise (it's predicted that by 2020, someone will take their own life every 20 seconds), Dese’Rae is doing something about it. Join our important conversation.  SHOW NOTES: Dese'Rae pursued psychology, with an emphasis on suicide research, all the way through to a Ph.D. program before realizing she did not have faculty support on her topic. “Suicide was still too taboo, even for advanced programs,” Dese'Rae says. "As a culture, we are now more open to doing research on suicide and including people who have been personally affected by the loss of a loved one or from personal experience." Dese'Rae shares.  Why is suicide on the rise? There are numerous answers + Dese'Rae calls out that mental illness is often the most widely discussed, but it’s important to note that the CDC reports between 1999-2016, 54% of the people who took their lives in the United States did not have a known mental health diagnosis.  Other life events that are filled with pain, confusion, and hopelessness that could take people to the path of suicide: breakups, job loss, legal or financial issues. Dese'Rae found her value in a desperate moment. She's constantly making that choice to live. "The last few years have been about affirming her choice to live." Dese’Rae on what it’s like to live with chronic suicidal thoughts. Media focuses on those who have died by suicide instead of the people who have lived to tell the tale afterward. Live Through This: series of portraits and true stories of 186 suicide attempt survivors across the United States started as a personal photography project that turned into so much more. "I picked up my camera as a coping skill and it later became my career" She makes portraits of people in the world where they tried to take themselves out of. Used as a teaching tool for researchers + clinicians  Are you or someone you know struggling? Here are tips that Dese’Rae shared: Distract yourself: play with your dog, watch a movie, etc. Develop a WRAP (Wellness Recovery Action Plan) Then, once you're beyond that critical point of panic, you can evaluate your needs. If you're emotionally available, willing, ready: Reach out to someone you know is struggling. Asking for help: We all struggle asking for help. Those who are suicidal or depressed are likely feeling ashamed and struggle even more at asking for help. We can all relate: We are all so different but we struggle with the same stuff -- pain and suffering. There is power in sharing our vulnerability. If you or someone you know needs help, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255). Live Inspired Podcast guest Dennis Gillan shares the loss of two brothers to suicide. Listen to his story on ep. #46. Listen to comic Adam Cayton-Holland as he shares about losing his sister to suicide on Live Inspired Podcast ep. #99. DESE'RAE STAGE'S LIVE INSPIRED 7  1. What is the best book you’ve ever read? Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky. 2. What is a characteristic or trait that you possessed as a child that you wish you still exhibited today? The persistence to seek out the things I am curious about. 3. Your house is on fire, all living things and people are out. You have the opportunity to run in and grab one item. What would it be? It would have to do with photos. 4. You are sitting on a bench overlooking a gorgeous beach. You have the opportunity to have a long conversation with anyone living or dead. Who would it be? My wife. She's my favorite human being and we teach each other a lot. The older you get, the more complicated life gets and you don't get to have those moments as much as you used to. I would always welcome more time just talking to her. 5. What is the best advice you’ve ever received? Just keep going and trust your gut. 6. What advice would you give your 20-year-old self? Your life is going to be a lot more interesting that you could have ever hoped for. 7. It’s been said that all great people can have their lives summed up in one sentence. How do you want yours to read? She did good stuff.  *** Did you enjoy this episode? Subscribe, rate & review on Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Live Inspired with John daily on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn, Pinterest, Instagram + get his Monday Motivation email.  

In the past couple of years of being an entrepreneur, I’ve become increasingly aware that my struggle with mental health is not an isolated incident that only I suffer from. As I dig deeper into understanding my own issues, I have found that challenges with depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, and suicidal ideation affects 73% of entrepreneurs. My guest today, Dennis Gillan, is an expert in the field of mental health with heartbreaking experiences in dealing with the stark realities of suicide. While Dennis is NOT a psychologist or psychiatrist, he is a world-class speaker who has spoken to the Army, Air Force, churches, homeless shelters and colleges across the country. I wanted to bring him on today — not for a Debbie-downer episode — but for an inspirational call-to-action for all of us, the business owners, founders and the families that support us, so that we can take one more step to END the stigma of mental health in this country. In this episode, you’ll hear Dennis share how he dealt with the suicides of his two brothers, and how we can support those around us, and reclaim our own lives if we, too, suffer in silence. Dennis says that dealing with the word “suicide” brings on a tremendous amount of guilt and pride. Guilt for what you could have done to prevent it, and pride of not wanting to ask for help. Dennis shares how he found redemptive healing in helping others as a volunteer for a suicide prevention hotline, and getting trained in QPR, or question, persuade, refer. “QPR is like CPR for mental health,” says Dennis. “I’m not a cardiologist, but I can keep someone alive until the pros get there.” Dennis also speaks to why entrepreneurs and creative-types are susceptible to mental health issues and how “Bundling Up” can help you cope. If you are thinking about suicide or self-harm, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255) or text the Crisis Text Line, a free text message service available 24/7, at 741-741. Subscribe and Review Have you subscribed to my podcast? If the answer is no, I’d love for you to subscribe. Diary of a Doer is full of stories of business, some behind the scenes, and freaking amazing guests. If you don’t want to miss an episode, click here. If you’re feeling realllly generous, I’d love for you to give me a review over on iTunes. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps me out a ton! Resources I mentioned: Mental Health Advocate Coming to Gardner-Webb Mental Illness May Plague Entrepreneurs More Than Other People. Here's Why (and How to Get Help). The Dark Side of Entrepreneurship with Data & Resources for Help American Foundation for Suicide Prevention World Health Organization: Suicide Prevention

Every Monday moving forward, join me for a quick burst of inspiration during Monday Moments. Each week, I'll cover a different topic that will spark you to live more inspired. Today, I share a story submitted by Mike F. of Alton, Illinois, one of our Live Inspired community members. Mike has done something truly amazing by applying the Live Inspired 7 – the questions we ask every guest at the end of our Live Inspired Podcast episodes – to his own life... You’ll love the result. Ask your loved ones the Live Inspired 7: What is the best book you’ve ever read? Tomorrow you discover your wealthy uncle shockingly dies at the age of 103; leaving you millions. What would you do? Your house is on fire, all living things and people are out. You have the opportunity to run in and grab one item. What would it be? You are sitting on a bench overlooking a gorgeous beach. You have the opportunity to have a long conversation with anyone living or dead. Who would it be? What is the best advice you’ve ever received?  Looking back, what advice would you give yourself at age 20? It’s been said that all great people can have their lives summed up in one sentence. How do you want yours to read?  Listen to last week's Monday Moments with Dennis Gillan on ep. #127 on the Live Inspired Podcast. *** If you enjoyed today’s episode: Subscribe, rate & review on Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. See you here next Thursday! Live Inspired with John daily on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn, Pinterest, Instagram + get his Monday Motivation email.  

Every Monday moving forward, join me for a quick burst of inspiration during Monday Moments. Each week, I'll cover a different topic that will spark you to live more inspired. I am honored to be joined by my dear friend Dennis Gillan to discuss a topic that desperately needs to be revisited: suicide prevention.  Today, we will break down the stigma around mental health and how to better care for ourselves + others who are struggling or suffering with suicide. Take this powerful episode as reminder that the best is yet to come. SHOW NOTES I share a poem written by 10-year boy titled I Am the Piece That Never Fits.  Dennis Gillan lost two brothers to suicide. Listen to his story on ep. #46 of the Live Inspired Podcast. Comic Adam Cayton-Holland shares about losing his sister to suicide on ep. #99 of the Live Inspired Podcast. If you or someone you know needs help, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255). ### If you enjoyed today’s episode: Subscribe, rate & review on iTunes or wherever you get your podcasts. See you here next Thursday! Live Inspired with John daily on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn, Pinterest, Instagram + get his Monday Motivation email.

In this episode, Kristen announces the show's name and format change to come in 2019. She also talks to suicide prevention and mental health advocate Dennis Gillan who lost BOTH of his brothers to suicide. He talks to Kristen about his experience, how he's healed, signs to look for and when to intervene. They also talk about being a misfit, Cheetos and people who comment on YouTube. Happy New Year! See you back here for Kristen and Ch(ill) in a couple of weeks. Check out Dennis at www.DennisGillan.com --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/kristencommachill/message

We here at Gain Your Edge get excited at the prospect of bringing you insightful podcasts to help you gain a competitive edge for your business and for yourself every month. This week, however, we’re coming to you from a different angle. Instead of providing you with the latest and greatest for your business life, we decided it was time to discuss the more personal side of things. Suicide is an unfortunate reality that many friends and families have had to deal with. From Netflix shows to the heights of business power, it’s an issue that needs to be discussed. Dennis Gillan is a national thought leader on the topic of suicide prevention. He travels the nation speaking and raising awareness for mental health. With a very personal history of suicide, Dennis guides us through coping with such loss, the power of sharing, the importance of coworkers and much more. We hope to help you gain an expanded understanding of this important topic through the lens of business with this special episode of Gain Your Edge.   References and Resources  American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Working Minds Man Therapy Partnership for Workplace Mental Health  Screening for Mental Health, Inc.  DennisGillan.com   Contact Our Guest Expert Connect with Dennis on LinkedIn   More Host Skip Lineberg Subscribe via iTunes Send your feedback, comments and questions to BusinessEdge@Frontier.com

"Success leaves a blueprint." My friends success leaves a blueprint and we are lucky to have 10 amazing guests who shared their blueprint - trials, errors, challenges, wins, successes, joys - with us this season. Learning from their model, we will become more inspired in the way we lead our lives. I can't believe we get to hang out with these amazing friends. II’ll recap my favorite lessons, so you can be reminded and/or encouraged to go back to the episodes that are most relevant for you; so that you can live your most inspired life with a little help from our friends. SHOW NOTES: Ep. #45: SALLY HOGSHEAD, listen here. Sally typically shares her expertise on branding with major brands like Nike, Ikea and Target. On this episode, she helps us identify our best qualities, and those of our businesses, so we can better connect with others and live inspired. You'll love the simple Fascination Quiz she shares so you can dig deeper after the episode. Sally also told a story she doesn't often share, during which she said, "My dad gave me life and then 10 years later, he gave it back to me." You'll understand more about what she meant by the quote and what it means to each of us when you listen. Ep. #46 DENNIS GILLAN, listen here. This was a special episode for Suicide Prevention Month and one of the most emotional, yet joy-filled and humorous ones, we've had. Dennis has been to the darkest places and yet come back out to show us how we can live in the light. Dennis committed his life to reducing the number of completed suicides and removing the stigma around mental health after losing his two brothers to suicide. His story helps us break down the stigma around mental health and better care for ourselves, those we love and those in the wake of suicide already. Ep. #47 DANIEL SILVERSTEIN - listen here. So many of us are experts at identifying what is wrong in the world, aren’t we? On this episode we were joined by a guest who didn't just identify what was wrong in his industry, he created a solution to the problem… and built an inspired business around it. Daniel Silverstein will inspire you to look at your challenges as opportunities to make a bigger impact. My favorite quote was: "Why NOT me?" Why can't I be the change needed in my industry, neighborhood, family. Ep. #48 MARK SANBORN - listen here. “It was out of abject failure that I learned to professionally speak.” This was astounding to hear Mark Sanborn say as he hero of mine, giant in the speaking industry and author of the much loved The Fred Factor and just released The Potential Principle. Hang out with us to realize the truth in one of his popular quotes, "We enjoy our successes but learn more from our setbacks.” Ep. #49 DINA DWYER-OWENS - listen here. Dina is a new friend that I met through Rory Vaden, a self-discipline expert who joined us in Season 2 on episode 3x. Rory rocked. When he said "You gotta meet Dina" I was ALL IN. Dina is co-chairwoman of Dwyer Group, has 3,000 franchisees across North America and appeared on the CBS hit Undercover Boss. She runs her business by focusing on clients, employees and a clear core value system. Learn how to apply this 3-part focus in your life so you can live and work inspired, too. Ep. #50 CURT STEINHORST - listen here. Ready to learn hacks to save your attention for things that REALLY matter? Did you know that: Every 6 minutes people check their phones. Married adults spend more time online than with their spouse. People spend 1 – 4 hours loafing on the internet during a work day. Wow — it’s easy to see the problem!  Curt explains the solutions he shares in his new book Can I Have Your Attention? so you can live inspired in this tech-centered world. Ep. #51 EDIE LITTLEFIELD SUNDBY - listen here. On this episode we went on an amazing journey, spanning the 1,600 miles of the El Camino Real "Mission" trail from Mexico to California. Better than the journey we took was the guide who led us. Edie Littlefield Sundby is know as "the mission walker" and her mantra is "while alive, live." Edie took a devastating cancer diagnosis and turned it into an opportunity to follow her dreams and look at every day as a "bonus". This episode is for anyone touched by illness. Edie's spirit will inspire you in ways you didn't know possible. Ep. #52 JOHN RUHLIN - listen here. "Are you sowing seeds for 50-year relationships or 5-minute relationships?” John Ruhlin will help you better understand this question and the importance of how you answer it. He teaches generosity as a competitive advantage in business for clients like NASCAR and the Miami Dolphins and is the author of Giftology. Join us to learn how to give more inspired gifts this year and always. Ep. #53 OZZIE SMITH - listen here. Join me and one of the St. Louis Cardinals players who signed baseballs for me when I was 9 and learning to write again after my fire. [Don't know the epic story? Listen to Ep. #32 to hear how Hall of Fame Cardinals Announcer Jack Buck changed my life + rallied the entire Cardinals team to join in his effort.] Ozzie shared about being a hall of fame shortstop and man. This episode was so special to me we recorded a video of it, too. Ep. #54 Richard Bach - listen here. We ended the season with the legendary author of Jonathan Livingston Seagull - a book that spent 2 years on the New York Times bestseller list and one that many of our podcast guests have listed as their favorite book when asked in the Live Inspired 7 at the end of every episode. Richard's writing, embraced by millions since the 1970s, suggests we are born to fly, and, we are free.  Don't miss this epic interview with a man who doesn't often give interviews. It's an honor to have him on the show. Don't miss it.  ***  If you enjoyed today’s episode: Subscribe (automatically get new episodes), rate & review (help spread the word!) this podcast. I can’t wait to see you here next Thursday for the start of Season 6! Today is your day. Live Inspired. Live Inspired with John every day on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn, Pinterest and get his Monday Motivation email: www.JohnOLearyInspires.com/Monday-Morning 

In this episode, Al interviews mental health advocate & motivational speaker, Dennis Gillan. Dennis shares his powerful and inspirational story of surviving two separate sibling suicides. Learn more about Dennis, including how to book him for a speaking event at his website, dennisgillan.com. You'll also be able to find Dennis on Twitter @Dgillan If you enjoyed this episode, please click the 'like' button below. In addition, please know that comments are welcomed and encouraged! In addition to The Depression Files, you can find Al's blog at allevin18.wordpress.com. You can also find him on Twitter @allevin18.

Today is a special episode of the Live Inspired podcast in light of September being Suicide Prevention Month 2017. Dennis Gillan joins us to share his story on a topic that affects us all: Mental health. He's committed his life to reducing the number of completed suicides and removing the stigma around mental health after losing his own two brothers to suicide. Today's episode will help us break down the stigma around mental health and better care for ourselves, those we love and those who are in the wake of suicide already. Don’t miss this powerful episode. SHOW NOTES: Talk saves lives. If you're dealing with mental health issues, diagnosed or not, know that it's okay to talk about it. 9 out of 10 people who die from suicide have a mental illness. Dennis was away at college when his older brother Mark died by suicide. "I came home for the funeral but didn't even stay a week. As a family we just kept going as if things were normal. I didn't see a counselor - I started drinking a lot." "When suicide happens, it's like everyone sitting around the table and a grenade goes off and someone is not there when the smoke clears and everyone asks: "What happened!?" Every 13 minutes someone commits suicide, every 14 minutes there are people asking "What happened?" 11 years later, Dennis's younger brother Matt died by suicide.  People often feel like they don't know what to say or do after a suicide: Just show up. It's called the ministry of presence.  I was reminded of how good people are when I was low. Someone anonymously mowed my lawn and it made such a difference; reminded me someone cared + took a burden off. After my second brother died from suicide, I gave up alcohol. I did it one day at a time + with the help of a counselor. I have fallen in love with sobriety. I used to think I'd be missing out. Now, my only regret is I didn't do it sooner. Surround yourself with positive people. Men need men - I meet with a group every week. They give me hope/social connection which was important because when I got depressed I wanted to withdraw. How to get ahead of suicide: Talk about mental health. 90% of completed suicides are by people with mental health issues; we need to be as comfortable talking about mental health as a broken leg. 20% seek treatment. If you're not feeling well mentally, see somebody. It doesn't take all your problems away, but will stack them up neater + help you cope. It's okay to say 'I'm not okay.'  "Be real. Life isn't all skittles + unicorns. We know this." Watch the video where Dennis talks about the last night he drank. "I hid it for a long time. When I started talking about my brothers and their deaths, I was amazed at the deeper relationships I have with people + how we relate to this topic." "When we share our joy its a double joy when we share our sorrow its have a sorrow." - Swedish proverb After sitting on my hands for 18 years, my healing accelerated the minute I started getting real, being open. Check out these tips from National Association of Mental Illness to Take Charge of your Mental Health + Support a Loved One’s Mental Health. Join the conversation on social media using #SuicidePrevention and #StigmaFree DENNIS GILLAN'S LIVE INSPIRED 7  1. What is the best book you’ve ever read? Mans Search for Meaning, by Viktor Frankl. The Bible which I'm reading with my men's group. 2. Tomorrow you discover your wealthy uncle shockingly dies at the age of 103; leaving you millions. What would you do with it? I want to take my winnebago and talk about mental health and suicide prevention for free to anyone who will listen. 3. Your house is on fire, all living things and people are out. You have the opportunity to run in and grab one item. What would it be? Photo album of my kids. 4. You are sitting on a bench overlooking a gorgeous beach. You have the opportunity to have a long conversation with anyone living or dead. Who would it be? Matt and Mark, it's what we should be doing if it weren't for the way things turned out. That is the ultimate dream. Matt, Mark and me sitting, looking at the ocean. 5. What is the best advice you’ve ever received? A friend of mine who heard you speak and said, I just heard John O'Leary speak, you gotta check him out. He said you were the real deal and you are. 6. Looking back, what advice would you give yourself at age 20? I'd tell myself go home and be with Mark, be a better brother and quit drinking. I went through some of my life in a blur and I needed to be focused; if I was focused maybe I could have helped those guys.  7. It’s been said that all great people can have their lives summed up in one sentence. How do you want yours to read? He really tried to be a good guy. ***  If you enjoyed today’s episode: Subscribe (automatically get new episodes), rate & review (help spread the word!) this podcast wherever you get your podcasts. I can’t wait to see you here next Thursday! Today is your day. Live Inspired. Live Inspired with John everyday on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn, Pinterest and get his Monday Motivation email: www.JohnOLearyInspires.com/Monday-Morning