Drug Prevention Power Hour: Empowering Leaders in Youth Drug Prevention

In this conversation, Jake White and Andrew Laubacher explore the pressing issue of digital addiction and its impact on mental health, particularly among youth. Andrew shares his personal journey from a life of addiction to a mission of helping others detox from technology through his program, Humanality. They discuss the psychological effects of technology, the importance of setting boundaries, a...

In this episode of the Drug Prevention Power Hour, host Jake White speaks with Derek Jordan from Prime for Life, a global alcohol and drug prevention program. Derek shares his personal journey that led him to this field, including a tragic incident that shaped his mission to prevent similar occurrences for others. The conversation delves into the unique aspects of Prime for Life, its evidence-base...

Travis Sylvester is the founder of Sylvestri Customization, a company focused on marketing for substance use prevention and mental health. Jake, and Travis explore the importance of listening to community needs, effective marketing strategies for coalitions, and the significance of creating authentic experiences that resonate with youth. Together they share insights on how to engage communities an...

In this episode of the Drug Prevention Power Hour, host Jake White speaks with Denise Mayer from Step Up Anderson Township about her journey into drug prevention, the importance of community coalitions, and innovative strategies for engaging parents and youth. Denise shares her experiences in building a coalition, the challenges faced in educating the community, and the significance of addressing...

Have you wondered how to talk with your kids about vaping, alcohol and other drug use? Jake White interviews Darrell Braemer, the executive director of Operation Parent. They discuss the importance of parental involvement in preventing drug use among teens, the challenges parents face today, and the resources available through Operation Parent. The conversation emphasizes the need for awareness, c...

In this celebratory 100th episode of the Drug Prevention Power Hour, host Jake White shares the growth of Vive18 last year, including partnerships with over 100 schools, launching 25 new student clubs and reaching more than 55,000 students. He discusses the importance of empowering students in drug prevention, and the innovative approaches being taken to engage communities. The episode highlights...

In this episode of the Drug Prevention Power Hour, host Jake White speaks with Jamie Roberts, a licensed marriage and family therapist, about the importance of understanding mental health and neurodiversity in teens. They discuss the challenges faced by neurodivergent individuals, particularly young women, and the gaps in diagnosis and support. Jamie shares actionable steps for adults to support t...

In this episode, Jake White and Dr. Crystal Collier discuss the importance of understanding neurodevelopmental stages in creating effective prevention strategies for risky behaviors. They explore five key stages from birth to age 21, emphasizing the significance of attachment, self-efficacy, social dynamics, identity building, and autonomy. Dr. Collier provides insights on how parents can foster h...

In this conversation, Dr. Marc Picot shares his personal journey with vaping addiction and mental health struggles, highlighting the challenges of nicotine dependence and the importance of motivation in quitting. He discusses the environmental impact of vaping, the need for supportive resources, and strategies for cessation. Dr. Picot emphasizes the creation of a comprehensive platform to assist i...

In this episode of the Drug Prevention Power Hour, host Jake White speaks with Margy Schaller, a speaker coach and co-founder of Sober Life Rocks. They discuss Margy's journey to sobriety, the stigma surrounding it, and the mission of Sober Life Rocks to create a supportive community for those who choose not to drink. The conversation highlights the importance of normalizing sober choices, pr...

In this episode, Jake White and Roger Rickard discuss the significance of advocacy, particularly in the context of drug prevention. Roger shares his journey into advocacy, emphasizing the importance of grassroots movements and community engagement. He provides insights into effective advocacy strategies, highlighting the power of belief, knowledge, and youth involvement in making a difference. He...

Cassandra Sage and Marnie Maraldo from Influence the Choice share how they’ve taken their coalition beyond the DFC (Drug Free Communities) Grant and continue to do impactful work in drug prevention and youth leadership. They discuss the challenges and strategies involved in sustaining a nonprofit organization focused on substance use prevention, explore the importance of adapting to changing socia...

In this conversation, Shane Watson shares his journey from a promising youth to struggling with addiction and ultimately finding his calling in mental health and recovery advocacy. He emphasizes the importance of storytelling in connecting with audiences, particularly youth, and discusses techniques for effective public speaking. Shane highlights the significance of vulnerability and authenticity...

In this episode of the Drug Prevention Power Hour, host Jake White speaks with Michael Brown, a retired DEA agent and current director of counter-narcotics technology at Rigaku Analytical Devices. They discuss Michael's extensive background in drug enforcement, the role of technology in combating drug trafficking, and the importance of community coalitions in addressing the opioid crisis. Mic...

In this engaging conversation, Dr. Aaron Weiner and Jake White discuss the evolving landscape of addiction and prevention, focusing on the impact of marketing strategies, trends in substance use among youth, and the importance of education in understanding addiction. They explore the concept of 'addiction for profit' and how it shapes public health, while also highlighting positive trend...

Ray Lozano has spent more than 30 years learning about and discussing substance use with teenagers. Today he shares the secrets behind communicating well with students and how to do prevention messaging effectively. From focus groups, to learning the language of today’s youth - this episode will give you new talking points, metaphors and real knowledge about youth marijuana, alcohol and nicotine u...

In this episode of the Drug Prevention Power Hour, host Jake White interviews Adam Kasix, a trauma nurse turned recovery advocate. Adam shares his incredible journey from addiction and trauma to healing and helping others. He discusses the importance of self-awareness and the tools he developed, including the Radar Framework, which helps individuals align their actions with their core values. The...

In this episode of the Drug Prevention Power Hour, host Jake White speaks with Dr. Caroline Dupont, a psychiatrist and vice president of the Institute for Behavior and Health. They discuss the importance of drug prevention, the legacy of Dr. Dupont's family in the field, and the innovative One Choice Prevention initiative. The conversation emphasizes the significance of positive social norms,...

In this episode of the Drug Prevention Power Hour, host Jake White speaks with Jeff McLachlan, a passionate youth speaker and educator. They discuss Jeff's journey from teaching kindergarten to his involvement with Idaho Drug Free Youth, emphasizing the importance of community, play, and brain science in prevention efforts. Jeff shares insights on how to empower youth to make healthy choices...

In this engaging crossover episode, Jake White and Effie Alofoje-Carr discuss the vital role of prevention in addressing substance misuse, emphasizing the importance of youth engagement, community coalitions, and family support. They share personal journeys into the prevention field, highlight innovative approaches to youth leadership, and stress the need for tailored solutions to community-specif...

In this episode of the Drug Prevention Power Hour, host Jake White speaks with Sarah Zillmer, an equine-assisted mental health professional. They explore the benefits of equine therapy, particularly in relation to mental health challenges faced by adolescents and adults. Sarah shares her journey from traditional therapy to equine therapy, discussing the common issues she encounters, such as anxiet...

In this episode of the Drug Prevention Power Hour, host Jake White speaks with Alexander Ramsey, founder of Lairly, about the importance of having an effective online presence for nonprofits and small businesses. They discuss the challenges faced by organizations in creating affordable and professional websites, the value of good design, and practical tips for improving website functionality. Alex...

In this episode of the Drug Prevention Power Hour, host Jake White speaks with Joe Eberstein, Director of Community Engagement for the Center for Community Research and the San Diego County Cannabis Public Health Initiative. They discuss the pressing issues surrounding drug prevention, particularly the fentanyl crisis, the implications of cannabis consumption lounges, and the importance of educati...

In this episode of the Drug Prevention Power Hour, host Jake White speaks with Jason Corder, a TEDx speaker and expert on social closeness, particularly in relation to Generation Z. They discuss the challenges faced by Gen Z, the importance of social connections for mental health, and the concept of social closeness, which emphasizes the biological and emotional benefits of physical interactions....

In this episode of the Drug Prevention Power Hour, host Jake White speaks with Torin Holmes about the Celebrate Recovery program at their church. They discuss the model of Celebrate Recovery, its focus on building relationships, creating a safe space for healing, and the importance of community in recovery. Torin shares insights on the logistics of running the program and offers advice for those l...