Leading the Change: Youth in Prevention

Season 3, Episode 7 | Leading the Change: Youth in PreventionIn this episode of Coffee and Clarity: Preventing Substance Misuse, we sit down with Heather Schjenken—Senior Youth Trainer at The Montana Institute and Executive Director of Youth for Christ in Itasca County—for a powerful conversation about youth leadership, prevention, and the impact of positive community change.With more than 20 years of experience as a teacher, coach, ministry leader, and prevention advocate, Heather shares how the Positive Community Norms approach and the Science of the Positive are transforming schools and communities. From helping reduce underage drinking in Deer River by 50% to training youth across the country, Heather has seen firsthand what happens when young people recognize their voice and step into leadership.We talk about:• Why youth voice is essential to real change• Common misconceptions about substance use• How peer influence can be used for good• Practical ways students can get involved in prevention• Simple steps schools can take to start shifting cultureThis episode is a reminder that prevention isn’t just about information—it’s about empowering the majority, shifting norms, and helping young people see the impact they already have.Listen now on your favorite platform:YouTube: https://bit.ly/CoffeeandClarityYoutubeApple: https://bit.ly/CoffeeandClarityAppleiHeartRadio: https://bit.ly/CoffeeandClarityiHeartAudible: https://bit.ly/AudibleCoffeeandClarityAmazon: https://bit.ly/AmazonCoffeeandClaritySpotify: https://bit.ly/SpotifyCoffeeandClarityLearn more or support our work at www.empowermartin.comFor sponsorship or guest opportunities, contact [email protected] podcast is made possible by grants from the ONDCP Drug-Free Communities Support Program and the Schmeekle Foundation.Like, subscribe, and share to help us amplify youth voices and prevention work.