Episode 11: Youth Prevention in Action, From Community Policy to Peer Advocacy

Episode Summary: In this episode of Inspire Shasta, hosts Maggie Joyce and Jenn Cobb explore the vital work happening across Shasta County to combat youth tobacco and vape use. Debbie Burkett, Tobacco Compliance Specialist at Shasta County Public Health, shares what it’s like to visit more than 200 retailers across the county, educate business owners, and work alongside law enforcement to keep illegal tobacco products out of kids’ hands. Debbie breaks down new laws, compliance checks, and a proposed new local tobacco retail license in the city of Redding. Then we hear from youth advocates Audrey Bull and Kaitlyn Wendland, two inspiring young leaders who’ve grown up in Shasta County and stepped up as powerful voices for prevention. They share their lived experiences, what they’ve seen in local schools, how peer pressure impacts youth, and the power of youth-led education and policy change—including speaking at Redding City Council meetings.💬 Topics Covered:Tobacco and vape product laws in California, including flavored product bansWhat it’s like doing tobacco compliance checks with local retailers and law enforcementWhy a local tobacco retail license could change the game for preventionFirsthand stories from students about vaping in school bathrooms, peer pressure, and interventionThe role of personal growth classes and early education in preventionYouth advocacy and how it influenced city policyShifting the norm: making it “cool” to care about your healthMoving from punishment to education-based responses for youth who vapeAdvice from young people on what messages and methods actually reach their peers🔥 Memorable Quotes:“I’m not trying to shut down your business. I just don’t want you selling to kids.” – Debbie Burkett “Our friends are struggling, and we want to help. That’s why we do this.” – Kaitlyn Wendland “I’ve been passionate about prevention since I was in a stroller at a beach cleanup.” – Audrey Bull “Education—not judgment—is what makes the biggest difference.” – Maggie Joyce🧰 Resources & Get Involved:Tobacco Education Coalition (TEC) – Join a passionate group of community partners working to keep youth tobacco-free (https://www.shastacounty.gov/health-human-services/page/tobacco-education-coalition)Contact: Debbie Burkett, Tobacco Compliance Specialist, (530) 225-3745🙌 Final Thoughts:Youth voice is more than valuable—it’s essential. This episode shows how education, support, and action—especially from young leaders—can shift norms, shape policy, and protect the next generation. Whether you're a parent, teacher, student, or community member, there’s a role for you in prevention.