Pathways 2 Prevention

College drinking is often treated like an individual choice problem — “students just need to make better decisions.”In this episode, we zoom out and look at the bigger lever: culture and environment. Host Dave Closson is joined by Kate Lower (SHIFT, University of Texas at Austin) and Keyra Palacios (UT Austin student & SHIFT Maker) for a practical conversation about what prevention looks like when you center student experience, take environmental strategies seriously, and bring a harm reduction mindset into real campus life.You’ll hear:What SHIFT is (in plain language) — and why culture change beats slogansHow campus and “game day” environments shape norms and expectationsWhy “preventable measures” matter — and what they look like on the groundKeyra’s perspective as an economics major (not a public health major) doing prevention workA real-world story that captures the SHIFT mindset: bringing a first-aid kit to a partyWhy health communication is hard — especially when students and powerful stakeholders have competing incentivesTakeaways for prevention leaders, campuses, and studentsVisit: https://shift.utexas.edu/

Most people in prevention care deeply… that’s not the issue. The issue is that some of the most common prevention approaches can quietly miss the mark… and sometimes even backfire.In this episode of Pathways 2 Prevention, Dave Closson sits down with Matej (UTRIP), author of Prevention Gone Wrong: The Do’s, Don’ts, and the Common-Sense Lessons in Drug Prevention, to unpack why “good intentions” aren’t enough — and how to course‑correct without shaming the field.Episode Links:UNODC International Standards on Drug Use Prevention (PDF): https://www.unodc.org/documents/prevention/standards_180412.pdfBook: Prevention Gone Wrong: The Do’s, Don’ts, and the Common-Sense Lessons in Drug PreventionDrug Free America Foundation:Website: https://www.dfaf.org/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrugFreeAmericaFndn/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drugfreeamericafoundation/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCg9f7kHutH1xAFO_ZIRPmrgX / Twitter: https://twitter.com/drugfreeamerica

In this episode of Pathways to Prevention, we explore prevention leadership from a different angle — lived experience that doesn’t come from a degree program, but from doing the work, showing up, and growing through real-world practice.Dave sits down with Emily Parsons, Assistant Director of Health Promotion at the University of Tampa, to talk about her journey from student peer educator to campus prevention leader. Together, they unpack imposter syndrome, non-traditional career paths, mentorship, creativity in prevention work, and why experience and passion often matter just as much as credentials.This conversation is especially meaningful for anyone who has ever looked at a job description and thought, “I’m not sure I fit that box” — yet continues to lead, serve, and make an impact anyway.You’ll hear practical insights on developing student leaders, supervising with curiosity, building confidence, and creating meaningful prevention programming in higher education settings.Key themes in this episode include:• Prevention careers that start outside public health degrees• Mentorship and being seen for your potential• Leading with curiosity instead of having all the answers• Turning imposter syndrome into growth• Why creativity and connection drive student engagement• Supporting staff and students through development conversations• Letting experience — not just credentials — shape leadershipIf you work in prevention, higher education, student wellness, or coalition leadership, this episode offers practical encouragement and grounded wisdom you can apply right away.Subscribe and share with a colleague who is growing into their leadership voice.Learn more and explore resources at dfaf.orgDrug Free America Foundation Links:WebsiteFacebookInstagramYouTube

When we talk about prevention, most people think about youth programs, policy change, or school-based education. But prevention also starts in a hospital room, in a living room at 3 a.m. when a parent wonders, “Is this normal?”, and in the quiet after pregnancy or infant loss when families are left to figure out what comes next—often alone.In this episode of Pathways 2 Prevention, Dave sits down with Mai (Maiye) Waller, founder and executive director of the Mace Anthony Williamson Foundation and leader of The Doula Project Resource. Out of the preventable loss of her son, Mace Anthony, Mai chose to become the resource she always wished existed for other families.Together, they explore how community-based doulas, grief-informed care, and culturally grounded support before, during, and after pregnancy are powerful forms of substance use prevention, mental health promotion, and family strengthening.In this episode, we cover:Mai’s journey from grieving mom to founder and executive director of a national nonprofitWhat a doula really is (and is not)How The Doula Project supports families before, during, and long after birthWhy a 3 a.m. “Is this normal?” text is prevention workHow grief, trauma, racism, and isolation increase risk for substance use and mental health challengesThe role of culturally grounded, community-based doulas in reducing maternal and infant health inequitiesWhat “good collaboration” with lived experience leaders should actually look likeConcrete ways prevention coalitions and maternal health advocates can lock arms in the next 2–3 yearsWho this episode is for:Prevention coalition members and state leadersMaternal and child health practitionersDoulas, nurses, social workers, and peer specialistsAnyone who has experienced pregnancy or infant loss or walks alongside those who haveConnect with The Mace Anthony Williamson Foundation:Website: https://www.themawfoundation.org/National Prevention Summit 2026Drug Free America Foundation Links:WebsiteFacebookInstagramYouTubeTwitterIf this conversation resonates, share it with a colleague in prevention, maternal health, or public health—and invite a doula to your next coalition meeting.

In this episode of Pathways to Prevention, host Dave Closson spotlights a powerful youth-led global effort: the Youth Declaration on Prevention, Treatment, and Recovery.What began as a spark at a CND side event in Vienna grew into a global core youth group, a multi-country survey, and a declaration that centers one clear message: nothing about us without us.Dave is joined by youth leaders and organizers from across the world, including Cressida (World Federation Against Drugs), Sana, Fuhaira, and Muhammad (Pakistan Youth Organization). Together, they unpack how this declaration came to life, what they learned from youth in 60+ countries, and why meaningful youth participation must be treated as a design principle—not a box to tick.---------------If you are a youth leader or work with youth-serving organizations, this episode is your invitation to:Read the Youth Declaration and its full report to see where your current work already aligns with the six recommendations.Share your story: If you’re already taking action that reflects the declaration—programs, policies, campaigns, or peer-led initiatives—send your activities and outcomes to [email protected] for possible inclusion in an upcoming global youth declaration web magazine.Create real seats at the table: In your organization, community, or network, ask where youth are currently informed versus where they are truly involved in decision-making.Resources MentionedYouth Declaration on Prevention, Treatment, and Recovery – full text and data reportWorld Federation Against Drugs (WFAD) – declaration partners and hosts of the global youth web magazinePakistan Youth Organization – a youth-focused organization that helped conceptualize and drive the declaration

Dave Closson sits down with Terry Gerlach, Supervisor of Clinical Services at Hazelden Betty Ford in Naples, to explore recovery and mental health in older adults. Terry shares her career pivot from corporate banking to clinical work, the power of holistic care that treats substance use and mental health together, and practical ways families and providers can recognize risk, strengthen protective factors, and support lasting recovery. The conversation dives into shame versus guilt, “taking your power back,” trauma-informed healing, and small habit shifts that build hopeful momentum at any age.Key takeawaysRecovery has no age limit. It’s never too late to ask for help and rebuild a meaningful life.Treat both substance use and mental health together. A holistic approach closes harmful care “silos.”Older adults face unique risk factors: loss, identity shifts, social isolation, mobility changes, and medication complexity.Protective factors matter: sober support, faith, movement, purposeful activity, and service or mentorship.Shift from shame to guilt. Shame attacks identity. Guilt focuses on behaviors you can change.“Take your power back.” Focus on what you can control today. One day at a time counts.Family and providers can be bridges. Notice subtle cues, stay connected, offer options without judgment.Small practices, big impact: affirmations, breathwork, gratitude, “habit stacking,” and boundaries to prevent compassion fatigue.Topics covered- Holistic treatment: integrated care for substance use and mental health- Levels of care: residential, partial hospitalization, intensive outpatient- Older adult programming and considerations- Risk and protective factors for older adults- Shame vs. guilt and practical self-forgiveness routines- Trauma-informed care: EMDR, nervous system work- Family roles, early cues, and supportive conversations- Provider self-care and boundaries to avoid compassion fatigue- Simple daily practices: gratitude, affirmations, measured breathing, limiting negative media, transitional ritualsNotable quotes- “It is never too late to get help. Help is available. You are worth saving.” — Terry- “Take your power back by focusing on what you can control—today.”- “Hope has no age limit.”Resources mentioned- Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation- Falling Upward by Richard Rohr- The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk- Atomic Habits by James Clear- VolunteerMatch.org for purpose-building opportunities-National Prevention Summit 2026Drug Free America Foundation Links:WebsiteFacebookInstagramYouTubeTwitter

In this episode of Pathways 2 Prevention, Dave Closson sits down with Jason Dorr, a longtime youth mentor and prevention educator from More2Life. With nearly two decades of experience working with teens in schools, churches, and communities, Jason shares how his passion for helping youth make positive choices has shaped his work—and the lives of countless young people.Together, Dave and Jason explore:✔️ How prevention and youth development go hand in hand✔️ What it takes to truly engage teens in meaningful conversations✔️ Why social media, substance use, and relationships are essential topics to address✔️ How parents can build trust and open communication with their kids✔️ The ripple effect of making one good choice—and the power of one caring adultWhether you’re a parent, educator, prevention leader, or someone who cares about the next generation, this episode offers practical insights, real-world stories, and encouragement to keep showing up.Links: https://www.m2l.org/ http://www.facebook.com/#!/more2lifeflhttps://www.instagram.com/more2lifefl/https://www.dfaf.org/

In this powerful episode, Dave sits down with Julietta, a passionate prevention leader whose journey began as a child growing up in Juárez, Mexico, once known as the most dangerous city in the world. Julietta shares how witnessing the harsh realities of drug and human trafficking shaped her deep commitment to prevention work.What started as childhood curiosity turned into a lifelong mission: empowering youth, families, and communities with truth-based education. Julieta brings heart, humility, and hard-earned wisdom to the conversation, emphasizing the importance of listening first, honoring community voices, and building trust through facts, not fear.Together, Dave and Julieta explore:The power of early, ongoing conversations about substance useHow youth mentoring and community outreach create ripple effectsWhy today's drug landscape demands honest, proactive engagementJulieta’s motto: “Knowledge is power” and how it saves livesThis isn’t just a conversation about prevention—it’s a reminder that purpose can grow from pain, and that even one conversation or one booklet can change a life.Key Takeaways:Prevention begins with real conversations, not scare tactics.Listening to youth and communities builds trust and relevance.The drug landscape is evolving—education must keep pace.Empowering parents and mentors with facts makes a lasting impact.Resources & LinksVisit drugfreeworld.org to explore free courses and request booklets.Learn more about the Drug Free America Foundation at dfaf.org.Join the ConversationLoved this episode? Share it with someone who cares about prevention. Leave a review and tell us what inspired you. Let’s continue creating pathways to a healthier, drug-free future—together.

After losing her sister to an overdose and her husband in a tragic military accident, Natalee King found herself drowning in grief, addiction, and hopelessness. What followed was a years-long descent marked by trauma, legal troubles, and a suicide attempt. She believed her story was over.But then—something changed.In this raw and deeply moving conversation, Natalee shares the moment she screamed at God and her phone started playing the song she and her husband once shared. A “God wink,” as she now calls it. From that moment, her journey toward healing began—through prayer, love, and the hard work of recovery.Now a U.S. Air Force Veteran, mother, and recovery advocate with over 300,000 followers, Natalee uses her voice to show others that healing is possible—even after unimaginable loss.This episode is about grief, yes—but it’s also about resilience, faith, and what it means to choose hope again and again, one day at a time.Content WarningThis episode contains discussions of grief, addiction, suicide, and traumatic loss. Listener discretion is advised.Topics CoveredThe physical and emotional weight of griefPrescription misuse after traumaSurviving addiction and finding purposeThe role of faith and spiritual turning pointsHow one man’s support (Justin) helped save her lifeWhy storytelling is healingIf you or someone you know is struggling, help is available:Text or Call 988SAMHSA’s National Helpline: 1-800-662-HELP (4357)Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741Links:https://www.instagram.com/nataleeeking https://www.facebook.com/people/Natalee-King Drug Free America Foundation Links:WebsiteFacebookInstagramYouTubeTwitter

In this powerful and eye-opening episode, Dave Closson sits down with Dr. Aaron Weiner to explore the evolving landscape of substance misuse—and what true prevention must look like in a world where addiction is often a business model. From flavored nicotine pouches and gamified vapes to the wellness-wrapped marketing of psychedelics and cannabis, Dr. Weiner unpacks the manipulative tactics industries use to hook youth and keep customers dependent.But this conversation goes far beyond the threats. Together, Dave and Aaron dive into emotional literacy, family connection, and how adults—whether parents, prevention leaders, or peers—can create safe spaces that protect and empower youth.What You’ll LearnWhy addiction isn't just a health crisis—it's a profitable business model.How emerging products like gaming vapes and flavored nicotine pouches are targeting young people.What’s really behind the rise of psychedelics and cannabis as “wellness” tools—and what prevention professionals need to know.How shame and secrecy keep people stuck—and how to counter it with safety and connection.Actionable strategies for building youth resilience through emotional literacy and real-world tools.Key Topics CoveredThe “Addiction for Profit” industry and its shifting tacticsCurrent trends in youth substance use—and why prevention is workingThe misleading marketing of psychedelics and the wellness industryHelping youth cope with adversity: emotional literacy, mindfulness, and support systemsThe role of parents, peers, and prevention professionals in building trustHow to operate within your “circle of influence” for lasting impactLinks:https://www.weinerphd.com/https://www.dfaf.org/

How can we truly empower young people in substance use prevention? In this episode of Pathways 2 Prevention, host Dave Closson sits down with Emily Hill, a dedicated Drug-Free Communities (DFC) coordinator from Minnesota, to explore how youth advisory coalitions are shaping the future of prevention.Emily shares her journey into prevention work, the importance of youth-led listening sessions, and how engaging students directly in coalition efforts creates real change. She also dives into the challenges and strategies of navigating cannabis legalization and shifting community norms around substance use.Whether you're a prevention professional, coalition leader, educator, or simply passionate about youth engagement, this episode is packed with valuable insights and actionable takeaways.What You'll Learn in This Episode:✔️ How Emily accidentally discovered her passion for prevention and turned it into a career✔️ The role of Youth Advisory Coalitions in empowering young people to lead prevention efforts✔️ How to successfully engage schools and build coalitions across multiple districts✔️ Strategies for navigating cannabis legalization and changing community norms✔️ The power of youth-led listening sessions in shaping prevention messaging✔️ Actionable advice for professionals looking to strengthen youth engagement in preventionResources & Links:🔹 Follow Emily’s coalition on Instagram: @SCDrugFree🔹Youth Advisory Instagram: @scyouthadvisory🔹DFAF Young Professional Advisory Board Instagram: @nextbestgen_dfaf 🔹 Check out prevention strategies from OneChoice: onechoiceprevention.orgJoin the Conversation!We’d love to hear from you! Share your thoughts on this episode:💬 What strategies have worked in your community for youth engagement?🎧 Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review to help us reach more prevention leaders worldwide!Drug Free America Foundation Links:WebsiteFacebookInstagramYouTubeTwitter

In this inspiring episode of Pathways 2 Prevention, host Dave Closson sits down with Angie Ferguson, Executive Director of Drug Free Clubs of America (DFCA). Angie shares the story behind this innovative program, which empowers teenagers to remain drug-free through voluntary drug testing, peer-led initiatives, and positive reinforcement. From creating a built-in “out” for teens facing peer pressure to engaging parents and businesses, DFCA is transforming prevention strategies across the country. Angie and Dave dive into: The origin story of DFCA, sparked by a heartfelt conversation in a firehouse. How voluntary drug testing provides teens with a practical tool to refuse substances. The importance of peer-driven leadership and community involvement in fostering prevention. Challenges and lessons learned from 20 years of implementing and evolving the program. The program’s scalability and vision for the future, including addressing societal attitudes and supporting parents. Whether you’re a parent, educator, or prevention professional, this episode is packed with actionable insights and inspiration for fostering a culture of health and prevention. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: How DFCA makes prevention positive and empowering for teens. The role of community and business partnerships in sustaining prevention efforts. Practical tips for engaging youth and creating impactful prevention programs. Links and Resources Mentioned: Learn more about Drug Free Clubs of America: drugfreeclubs.com Upcoming Event: 12th Annual National Prevention Summit (February 17–18, St. Petersburg, FL): dfaf.org

Welcome to the Pathways to Prevention Podcast, where we explore transformative ideas, innovative approaches, and inspiring stories in substance misuse prevention and recovery. In this episode, Dave Closson sits down with Rocío Suárez Ordoñez, a psychologist, consultant, and global leader in women's substance use disorder treatment and recovery. Rocio serves as the Chair of Membership and Innovation for the Global Women's Network for Providers on Women's Substance Use Disorder Treatment, a con...

In this inspiring episode of the Pathways to Prevention podcast, host Dave Closson sits down with Ariel Cohn, a dedicated Young Professionals Advisory Board member at the Drug Free America Foundation and prevention supervisor with DCCCA, a nonprofit in Kansas. Ariel shares her journey from a high school student curious about public health to a dynamic leader in youth substance use prevention and mental health promotion. Together, they discuss the importance of youth empowerment, how today’s y...

In this episode of Pathways to Prevention, host Dave Closson welcomes inspiring young leaders from across Asia who recently attended the 11th Asian Youth Forum, organized by the Fourth Wave Foundation. The event brought together youth from diverse countries, including Bhutan, India, Malaysia, Vietnam, and Sri Lanka, to address pressing issues like mental health, substance use prevention, and community resilience.Throughout the episode, these passionate youth leaders share their unique experie...

In this special episode of the Pathways 2 Podcast, recorded live at the National Prevention Network (NPN) Conference, we bring you two insightful conversations with leaders who are making a significant impact in the field of prevention.First, we sit down with Ben Stevenson, who oversees prevention and harm reduction services for Montgomery County, Maryland, and also runs his own consulting firm, Bess Consulting LLC. Ben shares his innovative approach to integrating youth empowerment with harm...

In this episode of the Pathways 2 Prevention podcast, we explore the critical role of international cooperation in drug abuse prevention with Branislava, a dedicated advocate from Serbia. Branislava shares her journey from law school to making a significant impact on drug policy and international collaboration. She provides a unique perspective on how listening, collaboration, and a multidisciplinary approach can drive meaningful change in the fight against drug abuse.Key TakeawaysBranislava'...

In this powerful episode, Dave Closson sits down with Dr. David Patton, an Associate Professor in Criminology at the University of Derby, for an in-depth conversation about resilience, recovery, and the transformative power of lived experience.Dr. David Patton shares his journey from growing up in a disadvantaged neighborhood in England to becoming an associate professor in criminology. He discusses the impact of social policies and economic changes on his community and how it shaped his desi...

In this powerful episode of the "Pathways to Prevention" podcast, Dave welcomes Boomer Rose, a fervent advocate and inspiring figure in the realms of prevention and recovery. Boomer shares his profound journey from overcoming personal adversities including addiction, incarceration, and homelessness to becoming a leading voice in community transformation. His story highlights the importance of lived experience in crafting interventions that truly resonate with vulnerable populations.What You'l...

In this podcast episode, Tracey Ford shares her compelling journey from a challenging upbringing in Sheffield, UK, to her remarkable work in the recovery field. Coming from a background of dysfunction, teenage pregnancy, and subsequent struggles with drugs and coercive relationships, Tracey's life took a positive turn after being sectioned due to drug-induced psychosis. Discharged without aftercare and determined to change, she left her past behind, including her partner and a life of crime. ...

In this enlightening episode, host Dave Closson engages in a profound conversation with David Best, a professor of addiction recovery and director of the Centre for Addiction Recovery Research, and Mulka Nisic, a project manager and PhD researcher, about the transformative concept of Inclusive Recovery Cities. This initiative aims to foster communities where recovery from addiction is not only visible and celebrated but also integrated into the fabric of society, enhancing citizenship and mut...

In this inspiring episode of the Pathways to Prevention podcast, host Dave sits down with Amy, the Executive Director of the Drug Free America Foundation. From an unexpected start with a humanities degree to becoming a leading voice in drug prevention, Amy shares her unique journey and the profound lessons learned along the way. This conversation sheds light on the personal experiences that shaped her, the importance of mentorship, and the impactful work being done to combat substance abuse g...

Welcome to a special re-broadcast of one of our most acclaimed episodes. As we step into the new year, we revisit our inspiring conversation with Dave Higham, founder of 'The Well.' Dave shares his remarkable journey of overcoming adversity and how his vision has transformed the lives of many through community support, empathy, and resilience.Episode Highlights:Dave Higham's Personal Journey: Discover how Dave overcame his own struggles with addiction and how his experiences shaped the creati...

In this deeply moving and enlightening episode of "Pathways to Prevention," host Dave engages in a heartfelt conversation with Stacey Doorly Jones, the founder and CEO of Stand. Stacey opens up about her journey, marked by a childhood riddled with abuse and trauma, and how she transformed these harrowing experiences into a life dedicated to helping others. Her story is not just one of survival, but of profound resilience and an unwavering commitment to make a difference in the world.Listeners...

Dr. Crystal Collier, a renowned expert in addiction and brain development, shares her inspiring journey and discusses her groundbreaking program, "Know Your Neuro." She empowers parents, educators, and youth with the knowledge to protect and nurture their brain health, providing valuable insights and practical tips for improving well-being. The conversation explores the impact of risky behavior on the brain and highlights the importance of understanding and supporting neurodevelopment at ever...

In this compelling episode, listeners are welcomed into the world of Chris Ibe, an impassioned advocate dedicated to making a profound impact on the lives of young people in Nigeria and across the globe. Chris shares his personal journey, highlighting his active role in international forums and significant projects like the Global School Intervention Project on Drug and Substance Abuse in Kenya in 2019. His unwavering commitment to empowering the youth shines as he discusses his efforts to pr...

In this eye-opening episode, we sit down with Shane Varcoe, a leading voice in the world of prevention and resiliency. Ever wondered why some people bounce back from adversity while others struggle? The answer might lie in understanding your 'why.' Shane takes us on a transformative journey, revealing how knowing your 'why' can be a game-changer in life, prevention, and recovery. Plus, get an exclusive first look at World Resiliency Day, an initiative that aims to make resiliency a global con...

In this episode, host Dave Closson interviews Jo Baxter from Drug Free Australia and the Rotary Action Group, Addiction Prevention. They discuss their latest project, a thought-provoking book entitled "Street Drugs, The New Addiction Industry," authored by Elaine Walters. The book sheds light on the addiction industry and its impact, and the episode explores key themes and insights encapsulated within its pages. Jo shares her passion for drug prevention and education and emphasizes the import...

In this enlightening conversation, Dave sits down with Christopher, a seasoned addiction therapist with over 20 years of experience in the field, who specializes in treating cannabis addiction. They explore the intricacies of addiction, delve into therapeutic approaches that work (and those that don't), and discuss how to enhance the success rate of treatment. This is a must-listen for anyone seeking to understand addiction on a deeper level, particularly those in the healthcare profession or...

In today's insightful episode, we're joined by Sana Ullah Rathore, a seasoned professional with over two decades of experience in drug demand reduction and the founder of the Pakistan Youth Organization (PYO). Equipped with a Masters in Sociology and an International Certification of Addiction Professional (ICAP), Rathore has implemented numerous projects with international organizations and leads various trainings on substance use disorder.During our discussion, we delve into the work of the...

In this episode of the "Pathways 2 Prevention Podcast," host Dave Closson interviews Cristina von Sperling Afridi, founder of the Karim Khan Afridi Welfare Foundation (KKAWF) in Pakistan. KKAWF was launched in 2015 after Cristina and her husband, Ambassador Tariq Khan Afridi, lost their 19-year-old son, Karim, to drug use.Cristina shares insights into the challenges of drug trafficking in the region and how KKAWF is addressing the issue through prevention efforts focused on youth mental healt...

In this episode, we interview Dr. Michael Mann, an associate professor, Interim Divisional Dean for the School of Public and Population Health, Associate Divisional Dean for Academic, Student, and Faculty Affairs at Boise State University, about the Icelandic model and its impact on youth development. The Icelandic model is a community-based approach to youth development that has seen remarkable success in Iceland and has been adapted by other countries around the world.Dr. Mann explains how ...

Today we are speaking with Anne-Kristin Imenes, Senior counselor/psychologist specialist in Norway. She shared a wonderful program that addresses mental health and life skills called Robust Youth. What is Robust Youth?Robust Youth is a 3-year program in mental health and life skills for youth age 13 – 15 years old in secondary schools in Norway. The teaching has a playful approach to promote the students' wellbeing and sense of belonging. Through structured exercises the students build relati...

Today, we’re talking about the biology of addiction and recovery with Dr. Evelyn Higgins, who is an internationally recognized expert in the epidemiology of addiction and the Founder of Wired For Addiction®. We’ll discuss everything there is to know about interpreting an individual’s physiology in order to make informed treatment decisions based on objective biomarkers.Wired For Addiction® specializes in the biological component of mental health and addiction. Through their patent-pendi...

In this episode, we’re talking about alcohol prevention with Movendi International, who is the largest independent global movement for development through alcohol prevention. Movendi International’s vision is a life for all human beings free to live up to their fullest potential, and free from harm caused by alcohol and other drugs. It’s a world of peace, democracy and justice where free and healthy citizens actively contribute in all levels of society.We get into some great topics around dec...

Pease Inn….. A House of Peace and Tranquility for Substance Use and Mental Health DisordersToday we are speaking with Asia Ashraf from Pakistan, who has been serving in the field of drug addiction/mental health disorders treatment and rehabilitation for the last 17 years. Asia received her Masters in Applied Psychology from Punjab University, completed a one-year fellowship in Substance Abuse, Education, Treatment, Policy and Prevention from Virginia Commonwealth University, USA (2015-2016) a...

TEEN DRUG USE IS NOT INEVITABLE!Teens and the adults that care about them need to know that the One Choice of no use of any alcohol, nicotine, marijuana or other drugs is a realistic goal and that many teens are already making that choice.A study led by the Institute for Behavior and Health, Inc. analyzed data from the Monitoring the Future study showing for the first time that for three decades a growing percentage of 8th, 10th and 12th graders have made One Choice. In November 2020, an upda...

Welcome to this special episode of the Pathways 2 Prevention Podcast: We are proud to announce the 14th annual anniversary observance of NATIONAL DRUG-FREE WORK WEEK, OCTOBER 17 - 23, 2022. This yearly public awareness campaign highlights the importance of a drug-free workplace and encourages workers with alcohol and drug problems to seek help.Episode Links:https://www.ndwa.org/resources/national-drug-free-work-week/ https://www.ndwa.org/featured/make-your-drug-free-workplace-recovery-fr...

Our guest today is Rima Saade Turk.Rima is currently Executive Director and international relations of Nusroto Al-Anashid Association, using her wide network of social relations spanning across Lebanon and abroad. She is passionate for humanitarian activities, social services, and charitable works. She has 18 years of experience in the service of prisoners, 14 years of experience in the service of people who use drugs, a co-founder member and currently Manager of Drug Rehabilitation Center fo...

The Well has been created and developed by ex-offender, David Higham. David had been in and out of prison since the age of 16 and was a person who used drugs for more than 25 years. But with intensive support from the former Lancaster Castle prison, David began his recovery and has been drug-free for 17 years.David left prison for the last time in 2007. Since then he has dedicated his life to supporting others with alcohol and substance use disorders through both voluntary and paid employment...

Our guest today is from Drug Free Australia and is here to share a new resource they have created that puts prevention first! It is a new suite of health education modules with a focus on drug use prevention to be used by teachers, parents, school counselors, life coaches, and youth workers. ‘Save Your Brain’ (SYB) is targeted for younger adolescents (in middle school years) to promote an understanding of how the brain develops throughout the early years and into adolescence. In particul...

You know as well as we do, that in this increasingly challenging world, it takes a lot of effort to educate and empower children who belong to the marginalized, unrecognized and ignored segments. Our guest’s work has succeeded in creating socially responsive, self-reliant communities that work together to create safe environments for children as well as sustainable change through collective participation.They catalyze social change by innovating and piloting model solutions that Governments a...

In this month's episode, we talk with Mr. Dandy Yela, the World Federation Against Drugs DRC Country Representative about their Sober Youth Project. Stigmatisation and discrimination of persons who use substances is still an issue in the Democratic Republic of Congo and its capital city, Kinshasa. This is the case of youngsters, such as members of urban youth gangs – the kulunas. They are facing rejection and social exclusion and are being singled out, leading to urban violence and insecurity...

This month's guest is Carlton Hall, the Tony Robbins of community change. Join us as we discuss how the coalition model and Carlton's unique LEAD training system is applied domestically and abroad.Carlton Hall is the President and CEO of Carlton Hall Consulting LLC, a multi-faceted, full-service consulting firm designed to provide customized solutions and enable measurable change for communities, organizations, families and individuals. Carlton spent twelve years with the Community Anti-Drug ...

In this episode we speak with Regina Mattsson on how women are uniquely impacted by substance use in the developing world. We also discuss how we can work towards eliminating treatment barriers whilst strengthening approaches that create more inclusive environments in treatment and recovery for women and children.Regina Mattsson is the Secretary General of WFAD and supported in the implementation of the WFAD 10-year strategic plan to focus particularly on Children’s Rights and Women. As Board...

In this month's episode we talk with Pam McColl about marijuana policy north of the border as well as the latest research on prenatal THC exposure. Pamela McColl is a Canadian publishing entrepreneur and advocate of children's issues and smoking cessation, best known for releasing a smoke-free version of the classic Twas The Night Before Christmas.

In this month's episode we meet with Shane Varcoe, Executive Director of the Dalgarno Institute. Join us as we discuss some of the more nuanced aspects of the global drug policy debate including drug use normalization and harm reduction in the Australian context.Shane Varcoe is currently the Executive Director for the Dalgarno Institute (Coalition Of Alcohol & Drug Educators) a long standing Alcohol & Other Drugs (AOD), community based, not-for-profit, public interest coalition. As an...

We chat with Dave Closson, director of the mid-America Prevention Technology Transfer Center to discuss the role of motivational interviewing in campus prevention and the importance of building connection in disparate prevention organizations. Dave is a national expert on substance misuse prevention and law enforcement. He is the author of the Amazon Best Seller, “Motivational Interviewing for Campus Police.” Dave was named to the “Top 40 Under 40 Military Class of 2016” by Military Tra...

In this episode we are joined by guest Boro Goic, a founding member of the Recovered Users Network (RUN). We not only discuss Boro's personal journey to recovery and the important work RUN is doing, but we also touch on the importance of establishing recovery oriented systems of care in communities throughout the world. Further points of discussion include the still-persistent stigma around addiction and recovery and the importance of giving persons in long-term recovery a voice i...

Join us as we meet with Augusto Nogueira, Executive Director of the Association for Rehabilitation of Drug Users in Macau (ARTM). We talk about ARTM's unique approach to treating addiction and re-integrating addicts into society through long-term aftercare, skills training, and the arts.