This Dude Started Something Podcast Dives Deep with JB Copeland on Mental Health, Social Media, and the Power of Authenticity

Charleston, SC – March 2025 – The latest episode of This Dude Started Something brings an unfiltered and thought-provoking conversation with JB Copeland, a creator with over 2 million followers across social media. Known for his deep, introspective content, JB sits down with Oliver Welman and Brayden Krause to discuss mental health, emotional regulation, social media growth, and the importance of authenticity in a world full of fakes.

A Raw & Real Discussion on Mental Health

JB opens up about his struggles with anxiety, addiction, and self-doubt, revealing how a three-month stay in rehab reshaped his approach to life. “I accept the emotion that I'm feeling,” he explains, emphasizing the need for self-regulation and emotional awareness in men​.

Why ‘Sappy' Became His Brand & Movement

JB shares how his Sappy brand—which includes a podcast (Sappy Hour), a book (Sappy Medium), and an upcoming clothing line—evolved from a personal philosophy about embracing emotions. He reclaims the word “sappy” as a badge of honor, explaining that in nature, sap is what helps heal damaged branches—a metaphor for how feelings help people heal​

The Trap of Comparison & Social Media Growth

With millions of followers, JB knows firsthand how easy it is to get lost in the social media game. “The algorithm is a machine—you have to feed it,” he admits, but warns against creating content just for the sake of engagement. Instead, he urges creators to stay true to their voice and avoid the toxic cycle of comparison. “You can't hate yourself into change. I'm gonna try and love myself into change,” JB says​

A Wake-Up Call for Men Struggling in Silence

During the conversation, Oliver Welman points out the rising male suicide and incarceration rates, leading to a discussion on why emotional awareness is crucial. JB challenges traditional masculinity, stating, “The most masculine thing you can do is self-regulate.” He argues that many struggles stem from an inability to handle emotions properly. “We've been trained to think emotions are weak, but what's weak is letting them control you,” he says​.

I really enjoyed the episode!

This episode is packed with humor, raw moments, and deep life lessons—from JB's insights on personal growth to his unique approach to content creation and branding​.