make sure you are mechanically sound. It might be as simple as turning the star wheel in the drums.
As far as an upgraded pad goes. I currently have Hawk HP+ pads on the front and really like them. Little dust, pretty quiet, and definitely more stopping power. I wish they made shoes for us. But I'm going to swap to disks soon anyway.
A proper bed in (AKA burn in) is best so brakes stop better, are quiet, and last a long time.
http://www.stoptech.com/tech_info/wp_bedintheory.shtml
I have also have really good results with EBC Brakes. They have different colors to indicate usage. I prefer the "Red Stuff" on my Rx7 that sees some track time. I have also used their "Green Stuff". They now have a line just for SUVs. But I have not tried that line.
Another option to consider is you may drive like an ass hole. My very good friend Chris is one of those guys. He also replace his Autozone brakes about every year. He eff'in sucks to ride with. Way too much speed in heavy traffic (second gen Explorer) and on the phone. hammers on the brakes several time a day to avoid hitting the car in front. Has damaged every car he has ever owned in side of three years (usually less).
Does this sound like you? If any of you people drive 1/2 as bad as Chris...
SLOW DOWN! SHUT UP! HAVE PATIENTS!
Sorry about the rant, but a Lot of people in Memphis drive jsut like Chris.