Mount Pleasant Podcast

Pat Welch, President of the Charleston Running Club, joins host Brian Cleary to preview the premier racing event of early 2026: the Charlie Post Classic. Taking place Saturday, January 24th at 8:30 AM on Sullivan's Island, this beloved tradition begins at the Fish Fry Shack on Hennessy Street.

Established 41 years ago to honor Charlie Post's legacy, the event features both 5k and 15k courses. For those seeking a more relaxed pace, ...

Step through the iconic Avenue of Oaks with host Brian Cleary and Jim Westerhold, General Manager of Boone Hall Plantation, as they reveal the heart of this local treasure. This episode highlights how Boone Hall remains a vibrant part of our community, blending a 738-acre working farm—where produce is still hand-picked—with a deep commitment to preserving Gullah and enslaved history.

Get the inside scoop on the newly reopened Gin H...

Join us for a deeply moving conversation with Sarah Lustig, Founder and Nurse Director of Hoofprints in the Sand, as she introduces the powerful new HITS Club. This naturalistic, experiential equine facility is offering a unique path to healing for our veterans, first responders, and their families right here in the Lowcountry.

Located on a serene 18-acre property within the expansive Francis Marion Park, HITS Club offers a safe ha...

ECCO's One-Stop Shop: The Future of Community Outreach in East Cooper

In this important conversation, host Brian Cleary sits down with Stephanie Kelley, Executive Director of East Cooper Community Outreach (ECCO), to discuss ECCO's mission and the incredible expansion of their main facility in Mount Pleasant, SC.

ECCO is a vital human services organization serving everyone who lives or works East of the Cooper River, a mission that...

Join host Brian Cleary for a crucial conversation with Meaghan Silsby, Executive Director of the Lowcountry SC American Red Cross. They dive into the profound importance of giving blood and offering a lifeline of hope to those in critical need.

Did you know that every two seconds someone in the U.S. needs blood? Donating your blood truly IS the gift of life! Tune in to be inspired and learn how you can make a tangible difference.

Tune in as Host Zach Giroux sits down with Mount Pleasant Town Council candidate and lifelong resident, Perry Rourk. The 2025 General Election is approaching, and your vote will shape the future of Mount Pleasant—get the facts you need to make the best decision for you and your community.

Why is Perry running? After a lifetime in Mount Pleasant, Perry felt a calling to give back, leading him to immerse himself in Town Council and c...

In this special edition of the Mount Pleasant Podcast, publisher Bill Macchio sits down with Mike Tinkey, who is running for re-election to Mount Pleasant Town Council.

With nearly 43 years of public service in Mount Pleasant and Wild Dunes, Mike shares the experiences and lessons learned since he first moved here. Get to know the man who wants to keep Mount Pleasant greener, the water cleaner, and the town's history preserved for ...

What drives a public servant to dedicate nearly 30 years to their community?

Host Zach Giroux welcomes Councilman Gary Santos to discuss his re-election bid for the Mount Pleasant Town Council. With a record stretching back decades, Councilman Santos offers a rare glimpse into the career highlights and pivotal experiences that have shaped his tenure and his dedication to the town.

The conversation covers his unique perspective on w...

VOTE IN THE BEST OF MOUNT PLEASANT 2026 🥇⭐

Publisher/Founder Bill Macchio joins host Brian Cleary to talk about the history and impact of the Best of Mount Pleasant contest.

Hear the story of this community staple—from its roots in 1990 (when all voting was on paper!) to today's essential guide for residents and newcomers alike. Plus, get the scoop on the upcoming Best of Mount Pleasant Party!

Ever wonder what goes into a major charity cycling event? In this conversation, Chris Winn, Director of LOWVELO, joins host Brian Cleary to peel back the layers on this impactful, non-competitive Lowcountry ride.

They'll share the story behind the name, the different routes for every skill level, how you can help by volunteering or donating, and hear about the various riders who make this event special.

Every pedal stroke helps fun...

Join us as host Brian Cleary chats with Sonya Beale, the Executive Director of the Carolina Children's Charity. This incredible local non-profit is dedicated to making a real difference for children in our community who are facing health challenges.

Sonya shares how the charity helps local families in Berkeley, Charleston, Colleton, and Dorchester counties with the costs of medication, equipment, and therapy for children under 19 w...

Host Brian Cleary sits down with Alex McCarrell, Executive Director & Founder of Meowdog Animal Rescue, and Reynolds Lee, President of the Vet Club at Lucy Beckham High School. In this insightful discussion, they delve into the origins and mission of Meowdog, a dedicated animal rescue based in Mt. Pleasant, South Carolina.

Discover how Meowdog's journey began at a veterinary science program in a local high school, where they took a...

The Town of Mount Pleasant, SC, has launched an exciting new initiative: a voluntary residential environmental program! John Farrell, Environmental TMDL Manager for the Town of Mount Pleasant explains that this program aims to inspire Mount Pleasant residents to embrace more environmentally friendly practices at home. Its development follows the success of the town's Environmental Guidelines for Commercial Development, demonstratin...

In this episode of the Mount Pleasant Podcast, host Bill Macchio sits down with Mount Pleasant, SC Mayor Will Haynie, who is seeking a third term and continues to be driven by a strong desire to serve the community. His re-election bid has already garnered significant support, with five Town Council members endorsing his campaign.

Understanding the unique structure of Mount Pleasant's local government is key to appreciating Mayor H...

Join us for a fascinating conversation on the Mount Pleasant Podcast! In this episode, we chat with Neves Richards, the Director of Volunteer Engagement at Magnolia Plantation and Gardens, who gives us a look at Sean Kenney's Nature POP!®, a spectacular LEGO® brick art exhibit currently gracing the grounds of Magnolia through August 15th.

Prepare to be amazed by the intricate details of Nature POP!:

💢 Explore 43 different sculptur...

Emily Faile, Academic Counselor with Palmetto Christian Academy, sat down for a chat with host Brian Cleary. Their opening discussion revolves around why she believes the Academy was named Best Private School in the 2025 Best of Mount Pleasant for the 11th year in a row.

Naturally, faith is a large part of the conversation, as are the strong academic foundations of the school. Parents are important to Palmetto Christian Academy, an...

The Charleston Duck Race is back on the Wando River! Tune in as Evan Murray, the 'Head Duck' Fundraising Chair, joins host Brian Cleary to reveal all the details about this highly anticipated event.

On June 14th, 2025, prepare to witness 30,000 rubber ducks race to the finish line! How long will it take? You'll have to listen to find out! This massive Rotary Club fundraiser unites 9 Lowcountry clubs in a collective effort to suppor...

ORIGINALLY POSTED ON ISLE OF PALMS PODCAST

Join Bill Macchio for a conversation with former SC Senator Ernie Passailaigue, discussing his impactful time in the SC Senate and his role as Executive Director of the SC Education Lottery, clarifying how funds benefit education. He also shares insights into the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge and life on the Isle of Palms since 1961, highlighting the island's growth and the importance of famil...

What's the secret to a vibrant and active life in Mount Pleasant, SC? Find out in this insightful conversation between host Brian Cleary and TJ Rostin, the Town of Mount Pleasant's new Recreation Director!

Think recreation is just for kids? Think again! TJ reveals the diverse services offered by the Mount Pleasant Recreation Department, catering to all ages – from engaging adult programs to enriching senior activities.

Speaking of ...