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Glow For Hope: Sparking Conversation on Mental Health

Chris Allard: Turning Pain Into Purpose — The Story Behind The Tenth Man Foundation

Hosts: Kelly Poelker & Delisa Richardson   |   Guest: Chris Allard, Founder & Executive Director, The Tenth Man Foundation   |   Category: Suicide Prevention, Peer Support, Crisis Awareness

After losing his brother to suicide, Chris Allard transformed heartbreak into action. Through The Tenth Man Foundation, he’s giving a voice to those struggling in silence—especially within public safety and the wider community. In this episode, Chris joins hosts Kelly Poelker and Delisa Richardson to discuss warning signs, tough conversations, and the power of lived experience in preventing suicide.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 58:56 — 43.0MB) | Embed

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What You’ll Learn

  • How recognizing subtle changes in behavior can help identify when someone is in crisis.
  • Ways to start tough conversations that may save a life.
  • Why peer-to-peer connection and lived experience advocacy matter in suicide prevention.
  • How organizations like The Tenth Man and AFSP are partnering to create awareness and training.
  • Approaches to support those left behind after a suicide loss.

Guest Spotlight

Chris Allard is the Founder and Executive Director of The Tenth Man Foundation, a suicide prevention organization he established after the loss of his brother, Jon, in 2018. Inspired by Jon’s legacy and the concept of the “tenth man” — the alternative voice that challenges assumptions — Chris advocates for open dialogue, awareness, and education around mental health and suicide prevention. He also serves with the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) and the St. Clair County Suicide Prevention Alliance.

Key Quotes

“When someone comes to mind, reach out within 24 hours. That text or call could be the one that changes everything.”
“It’s okay to ask the question: ‘Are you thinking of suicide?’ You’re not putting the idea in someone’s head—you might actually be saving their life.”
“My brother didn’t have his tenth man—that voice to say there’s another way. Now we’re making sure others do.”
“Hope grows when conversations start. That’s how stigma breaks, and that’s how lives are saved.”

Resources & Next Steps

Next Episode

Join us next time for another powerful conversation as we continue to explore real stories, practical tools, and the voices driving hope and change in mental health awareness.

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Crisis Resources

If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, please reach out for help:

  • U.S.: Call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (available 24/7).
  • International: Visit findahelpline.com for international hotlines.

Disclaimer

This podcast is for informational and awareness purposes only. It is not intended to provide medical advice. Please consult your healthcare provider for guidance about your individual situation.

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