Control What You Can Control | A Conversation with Gary Gilliam (Part 1)

About the Episode

In Part One of this two-part conversation, Julia Healey sits down with Gary Gilliam — former NFL player, Penn State graduate, and founder of The Bridge Eco Village — to explore how adversity, structure, and belief shaped his path from Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, to national impact.

Gary reflects on growing up in generational poverty, being sent at eight years old to the Milton Hershey School, and the difficult mindset shift required to move from survival to opportunity. He shares how a “whole child” approach — focused on mind, body, spirit, and community — helped him redefine what was possible when resources and stability were finally in place.

The conversation also dives into Gary’s devastating college injuries, the mental battle of being told he had just a 10% chance of returning to form, and the discipline of focusing on effort, character, and the next right step when everything else felt out of control. Throughout, Julia and Gary unpack bigger questions about education, transition, and why preparing people for success must include preparing them for what comes next.

This episode sets the foundation for Part Two, where Gary’s NFL journey and the vision behind The Bridge take center stage.

Connect with Garry: https://www.garrygilliamjr.com/

Join our community of Inspired Changemakers!

The Inspired Changemakers Podcast spotlights people turning purpose into action. Each episode features a new guest sharing their journey, insights, and projects making a difference in their communities and beyond. Listen in, learn, and get inspired to take your next step!

You can find us on:
Facebook

Instagram

LinkedIn

YouTube

BuzzSprout

Support the show